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The Megaphone
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Cathedral High School Volume 106 Issue 2 October 26, 2026
MEGAPHONE STAFF
The Megaphone
Editors Kate Albaugh
OCTOBER 26TH, 2026 VOLUME 106 ISSUE 2
Adler Rodman
Reporters
Front Cover Cathedral High School hosted the annual Homecoming Dance on Saturday, October 3rd. Two years ago, the dance changed to Saturdays and transitioned to a formal dress theme for the students.
Malia Pugh Emma McGuinness Aimee Castro-Rodriguez Leah Stubbs Kyle Neeson
Photo submitted.
Brianna Pressley Lauren Kraege Lila Yeadon
Back Cover The Pride of the Irish Marching Band kicked off the Open House event in the courtyard. Directed by Cathedral Educator Ian Callen, the band takes center stage at Open House, sporting events, and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade downtown every year.
Jacob Caine Rowan Parrish Brooklyn Nickols Kennedy Washington Sutton Breving Amariya Forbes
Photo by Lacey Nix
Jocelyn Hiday Karly Boggs Faculty Moderator Mr. Marc Quaranta Principal Mr. Mark Matthews School President Dr. Rob Bridges Memberships Indiana High School Press Association National Scholastic Press Association
Cathedral’s Theater program, CaTheatre, opened up their show season on October 2nd with their performances of “Alice the Brave.” The show ran October 2nd at 7pm, October 3rd at 2pm, and October 4th at 2pm. Alex Lashenik ‘27, playing Dodo, struggles handing over a keepsake to the evil Red Queen, played by Mary Elias ‘29. The next CaTheatre production is “Pride and Prejudice” and opens on November 22nd. Photo submitted.
Around the Hill Cathedral High School invited over 300 perspective families to its annual Open House Event. The evening began with Mass at 5pm, and welcomed guests from 5:30 to 8:30 on October 1st. Every subject, team, and organization was on full display. Perhaps no better moment exemplified Cathedral’s excellence than the Show Choirs performing under the lights on the new Outdoor Classroom. The group performed twice during Open House, the second time coming after dark with a powerful display of lights and vocals. Photo by Lacey Nix.
Irishconnection.net
Let’s Make History
The Cathedral High School Boys Basketball team enters the 2026-2027 season coming off a state championship.
By: Emma McGuinness
Cheering all together, the basketball team and cheer team celebrate the win. The team had finally brought back the state title to the school. The last state win for the team was in 2022. Keaton said, “My hopes for the team this year are to win state again and carry on the standard we set last year. I really want them to stay close with each other, build that bond on and off the court, and push each other every day to be the best they can be.” Photo by Lacey Nix. A player dribbles the basketball down the court, and
The championship team was coached by Jason Del-
stops at the key. Fans cross their fingers and close
aney. Delaney has coached the team to three state
their eyes, and wait for the clock to hit zero. The
championships in his ten years as a coach. This sea-
buzzer rings out, and the whole arena goes quiet. The
son will become his 11th season coaching the Irish.
scoreboard lights up with big zeros and the final score
In these 11 years, he also became the winningest boys
shows 71-61. The team erupts in celebration with
basketball coach in Cathedral history. He boosted his
hugs, chest bumps, and lots of cheers. The boys team
reputation at Cathedral last year by securing his third
had done it. They had finally won the state title for the
state championship. Now, as the basketball season ap-
first time since 2022. The Irish boys all line up to re-
proaches, he attempts to be the first team in Cathedral
ceive their state medals and are full of emotion. Many
basketball history to go back-to-back and a four-time
photos are taken, and congratulations are in order.
state champion.
The seniors have accomplished their goal.
Delaney said, “Last year for the seniors, it was about
After last year’s first season back in 3A and Regional
leaving their mark at Cathedral. This year though, it’s
and Sectional Contenders, they were hungry for that
about trying to motivate the team to be the first boys
win, and they got it. While the win brought a new high
basketball team to go back to back.”
for the team. It will also bring new challenges for the
This year the team has changed and lost senior lead-
this coming season. They worked hard in the summer
ers and leading scorers. That doesn’t change the vibe
and the offseason hoping to find the same results.
within the team nor the goal. It will still require the
The Megaphone
same work ethic and the same team bond as last year.
Aldrige said, “Guys like Skylar are going to have to step
Every Cathedral team comes into the season with the
up, be leaders, and help keep everybody together. If they
same goal. Win state. They work in the gym getting
keep working hard every day, keep their faith in God,
better each day. However, the work also starts off the
and trust each other, I think they have a real chance to
court. Last year’s Captain Keaton Aldridge ‘26 said, “I
go back-to-back.”
feel like sometimes a team with better chemistry can
Skylar Rogers has been on the team all four years as a
beat a team with more talent.”
four-year varsity contributor. He has had a first row seat
Last year’s team may not have been the most talent-
to the impact good leadership has on the team.
ed in 3A, but they had a bond with each other that
While losing valuable players affects the leadership of
made the team so dominant.
the team, it also affects the team on the court.Another
Last year, seniors helped to implement these goals
Class of 2026 graduate and caption along with Aldridge
and make sure the team completely understood
was Julien Smith. The two were leading scorers for the
them.
team and were easy to rely on every game. This allowed
This season the team is looking for someone to step
the team to play a more offensive game.
up and lead the team on and off the court. Aldridge
While the team missed out on preseason practices in
‘26 said, “One of the biggest things they need this
the spring due to winning a state championship, Coach
year is for guys to step up. Last year, we had a lot of
Delaney said that it didn’t affect their preseason per-
seniors who were leaders on the team, but this year
formance in the summer. Preseason gave the coaches
they have a younger team.”
a chance to look at opportunities in players to fill last
Anyone on the team could step up and take this spot
year’s season’s spot.
and become the leader. Cathedral basketball has five
Delaney said, “A year ago we had Keaton and Julien,
seniors on the team this year that have been a part of
where you know you would get points from. Now, it’s
the program all four years at Cathedral. These seniors
kind of by committee. Every game that we played this
will help to lead the team and keep them motivated.
summer because we stat everything, had different guys leading us in scoring in different categories.” Preseason doesn’t determine the regular and playoff season. Teams adjust throughout the season. Delaney said, “This year we will have to transition from an offensive team to a more defensive team.” Last year, the team bonded through adjustments which helped them on their road to win state. The road to state is hard and long but the Cathedral Irish basketball team is hungry to go back to back. Although this year the team will have to adjust to a new style or have teammates step up to the leadership roles, that will not stop them from reaching their ultimate goal for the season. Seniors will help to play a major part in getting to their end of season goal. Delaney said, “Every senior that’s going to play this year, we’re expecting them to provide leadership even if it’s not vocal, to provide something on the court.”
Hyping each other, Senior Skylar Rodgers and BrayThe Irish kick off their season on November 25th at lon Pippins celebrate after a big play. Skylar averaged 6.7 points in the 25-26 season, playing in all 30 Warren Central and begin their quest of a repeat. games. Photo by Lacey Nix.
Irishconnection.net
Seaing Our Future Black Student Union Senior Seafood Boil
By: Amariya Forbes
Students are dressed in their matching denim and
Many seniors recognize this moment as one of the final
black attire. The smell of a fresh seafood boil fills the
times they can all get together for BSU before the BSU
air and provokes a delicious aroma. Everyone is full of
Senior Salute, right before they graduate. This moment
smiles and laughing. Many different friend groups in
helps recognize how important it is for the class to be
different spaces are all coming together to celebrate
close knit and celebrate with each other before they all
their final year as the Black Student Union senior
go off into their college lives.
class of 2027.
Senior year is known for being a stressful time for se-
Created in 2025, the Senior Seafood Boil was created
niors. With applying to colleges, staying afloat on aca-
for the Senior students to bond and come together
demics, attending school events, and much more, it can
during their final year at Cathedral as a group. Even
be hard to manage social life. The Senior Seafood Boil
though it was only created last school year, it was
helps with that. It creates an environment where stu-
a highly anticipated event for many and enjoyed by
dents can forget all of the stress they endure and use one
many senior students. Jean Smith, Moderator of BSU,
another to foster a positive environment.
said, “I love it because it really just stemmed from
Williams said, “I want everyone to understand how im-
something that the seniors wanted to do.” Because of
portant it is to stay connected, support one another, and
the seniors wanting to create this event, it shows the
enjoy these last few months at Cathedral.” The event
growth of Black Student Union and the involvement of
helps the senior class foster camaraderie and inclusive-
the members since it first started.
ness within each other. It’s also important for the se-
With the event only being for seniors only, it creates a
niors to just have a space for themselves and appreciate
feeling of unison and togetherness of the senior class.
how far they all have come since being freshmen.
Senior Karrington Williams, Black Student Union
With Hope being Cathedral’s Holy Cross Core Value
president, said, “It’s a chance for us to celebrate how
theme for the 2026-2027 school year, Williams said “I
far we’ve come, recognize the community we’ve built,
think hope plays a big role in this event because we’re
and make memories before we all go our separate
all preparing to enter a new chapter of our lives. The
ways.”
seafood boil is a chance to celebrate where we are now,
Senior Seafood Boil created a place for many students
appreciate the people around us, and look forward to ev-
to make memories with each other outside of school
erything that’s ahead.”
in a comforting environment. Even underclassmen have looked forward to this event and are waiting for it to be their turn to celebrate with their classmates. This shows how impactful the Senior Seafood Boil is to the Black Student Union. Most of the members that attended the Senior Seafood Boil have been participants in BSU for all of their four years and attended the countless club events. This event provided a group of seniors who have known each other in the past four years and set them into one space before they left and even left an impact of bitter sweetness. Senior Jorden Bell, member of BSU said, “It’s one of the last chances for us to really come together and just be together for one of the last times before we all go and leave.”
Smiling for the camera, seniors of Black Student Union are posing after their Senior Seafood Boil concluded. The Senior Seafood Boil is a senior only event that promotes unity and bonding over dinner at a seafood restaurant. Pictured is Karrington Williams, senior and Black Student Union President. She said, “As BSU president, it feels really good to see everyone come together, especially knowing how senior year can get.” Photo submitted.
Irishconnection.net
An Unforgettable Experience
The Spain-France J-Term is a trip of a lifetime
By: Jocelyn Hiday
drid’s culture is and what Madrid really is like. The next destination in the Sprance trip is Barcelona, Spain, a beautiful warm Mediterranean location. Students will be able to learn about different cultures and communicate with several locals and other tourists. In Barcelona, students will tour the Plaza de Espana, Gaudís Sagrada Família, Montjuïc Hill, and Park Güell. Students will be able to learn about Spanish history and learn about things they have never been taught. This is also true about the trip as a whole. Students will be able to learn the history of several countries, including Spain, Students are seen posing for a picture on the 2026 J-term trip to Puerto Rico. J-term is an opportunity for students to travel to new places like New York, Hawaii, Spain, and other places. Spanish educator and chaperone on the Puerto Rico J-Term Rose Egan said, “Exercising flexibility, learning to appreciate others’ cultures and interpreting and interacting in a language you are studying are invaluable experiences.” Photo by Rose Egan.
Standing beneath the beautiful Basilica of the Sagrada Família are a group of intelligent students who have traveled hundreds of miles to practice the language they have devoted time to studying. These students are going to experience the warm Mediterranean climate of Barcelona, the shimmering Eiffel Tower in Paris, and the bustling Plaza De Colon in Madrid Spain. Cathedral High School offers various trips for Jterm. One J-term experience is the Sprance Trip. The Sprance trip is a trip led by educators who teach Spanish and French and allowing students to be completely immersed in the language and the culture. Spanish educator Karen Hovanec said, “The time in Spain this trip is really valuable, not because it will make someone fluent, but because it lets students hear it in action.” The trip starts in Madrid, Spain, which is a beautiful city with rich culture. In Madrid, students will go on a guided sightseeing tour. The tour goes to the Prado Museum, Plaza Colon, Plaza de España, and the Royal Palace. Students will also visit the Reina Sofia Museum and go to a cooking class. Hovanec said, “Other Spanish teachers and I’s favorite part of speaking Spanish is the people.” Since students are going to be in Madrid, they will be able to communicate with locals and learn what Ma-
and practice their language skills, and just discover and explore new countries. Brissia Soto, a sophomore going on the trip, said, “I am excited to eat good local food, see how other people live and do their daily life, and understand people’s culture.” Lastly, students will be going to Paris, France. This destination is where students who are taking French will be able to use their new language skills to speak to locals. Many students are looking forward to this destination the most, because they will see the very famous Eiffel Tower. Paris is another example of a diverse city, because tourism is very popular there. Because Paris is very diverse, students will again explore new cultures and see how people live their day to day life. Sophia Moreno, class of 2029, said, “I’m very interested in learning about new cultures, because it will help me learn more about people and what people in other countries experience and value.” Students will also be going on a guided sightseeing tour to Arc de Triomphe, Chemps Elysées, Les Invalides, and Opera House. These sights are not only famous, but are beneficial to students in letting them learn about French culture and French history. Not only is this trip beneficial for students’ language learning skills, it also lets them travel to new countries and explore. Several of these students have never traveled to Europe, and some have never been out of the country. This trip will not only be educational for students, but it will also help students see the world and see what other countries and other people do differently than the United States.
Irishconnection.net
Finding a Place to Belong How Freshman Resources gives students a bond with upperclassBy: Malia Pugh men and Cathedral. talking to more people.” Freshman Resource is intended to make that process a little easier. Rather than expecting students to immediately understand everything about high school, the class provides a place where freshmen can learn from people who have already experienced the transition. Artega has a front-row seat to that growth. “The goal is for freshmen to know that they have people here who support them,” Artega said. “We want them to become more confident and independent, but we also want Peer ministers took their Period 4 freshman resource to the Legacy Cross to educate them on Cathedral history. Resource offers freshmen a chance to bond with seniors and learn about high school and Cathedral. “I remember being a freshman and feeling like everything was new,” Beene said. “Now I can be the person who tells them that it gets easier and that they’re going to find their people.” Photo by Malia Pugh.
them to understand that asking for help is part of being successful.” Freshmen may sometimes feel more comfortable asking another student questions they would hesitate to ask an adult. Peer Ministers can offer advice, listen to
Walking into high school for the first time means more than finding classrooms and memorizing a new schedule. Suddenly, familiar routines are replaced by new faces, higher expectations and the pressure of figuring out exactly where one belongs. For Cathedral freshman Jolie Johnson, the beginning of high school brought all of those changes at once. “At first, I was nervous because I didn’t really know what to expect,” Johnson said. “Cathedral was bigger and different from what I was used to, and I was worried about finding my place.” Johnson is a student in Period 4 Freshman Resource, a class designed to help freshmen navigate their first year at Cathedral. With the support of Freshman Resource teacher Mrs. Dolores Artega and Peer Ministers such as Sydnei Beene, the class gives freshmen a space to ask questions, build relationships and adjust to the academic and social challenges of high school. For Johnson, the transition did not happen overnight During her first few weeks, she had to become comfortable with a new environment while also meeting new classmates and adjusting to different expectations. “I think one of the biggest adjustments was realizing how much more independent I had to be,” Johnson said. “After a while, I started getting more comfortable and
problems or simply reassure freshmen that the challenges they are experiencing are normal. Johnson said those relationships have made Freshman Resource feel different from a traditional class. “The Peer Ministers make it feel like you have older students looking out for you,” Johnson said. “You can ask them things because they’ve already been through freshman year.” High school is supposed to teach students independence, but independence does not have to mean handling every challenge alone. Sometimes growing means learning how to use the community around you. Artega believes Peer Ministers play an important role in creating that community. “Teachers can give students guidance, but Peer Ministers connect with them in a different way,” Artega said. “They are proof that someone else has gone through the same transition and made it through successfully.” Beene knows the freshmen will take away memories outside of what they learn in books. “I hope they remember that somebody cared about how they were doing,” Beene said. “If they leave knowing they belong here and that there are people they can turn to, then we did what we were supposed to do.”
The Megaphone
Honoring the Past: Inspiring the Future The celebration of The 50 Years of Women Founded in 1918 as an all-boys Catholic high school in Holy Cross tradition, but in 1976, Cathedral became a co-ed school, welcoming young women for the first time. The year-long celebration honors how women transformed Cathedral’s culture, traditions, athletics, and leadership which all helped create opportunities for future generations. Within special events, activities, and even just small impactful ways to recognize the women, Cathedral is celebrating its 50 Years of Women anniversary throughout the year. This celebration is appreciating and taking recognition of not just the women in the past but also the women who are still, to this day inspiring future generations of female students. Cathedral has organized several events to honor this 50 year milestone. One of the most impactful events so far was the 2026 Evening of Excellence. An event that is held to support Cathedral and to honor members of the Cathedral family who have made a long-standing contribution to Cathedral or the community. Katie Lewis, a Cathedral Religion Educator and member of the 50 Years of Women Committee said, “It was just really nice to talk to all the recipients and their families and just seeing so much pride for Cathedral.” There have been ways to recognize women both big and small, as simply as educators wearing pink lanyards, and all educators and students donning pink IDs this year. Jean Smith, Director of Lifelong Connections said, “Our hope is that they are not just like specific events throughout the year, but really it is more of an overall presence.” With the efforts going beyond these events and into the day to day, it shows how Cathedral is dedicated to the moment.
By: Lauren Kraege
Cathedral is making a continuous effort to share the impact women have made and will continue to make throughout the years. Last year, there was another memorable event that made a positive impact on the school. This event showcased how great of an impact women have made and contine to make at the school. After an All-School Mass, they gathered all female students and faculty and passed out “1976” hats. And the males received commemorative pins. There was then a photo taken of all the women on campus. Grace Sinsabaugh, a Junior at Cathedral, was present for this photo and said, “Having the opportunity to be a part of this moment was very impactful and something I will never forget.” Cathedral hopes to make the contributions of women an important part of the schools identity throughout the anniversary and beyond. Many female sports teams at Cathedral have won state and other titles. If it weren’t for female athletes, none of these accomplishments would have been possible. Cathedral high school women’s sports have won 18 IHSAA state championship titles, plus club titles. Not only is the female presence in athletics impressive, but many females also hold other important positions at Cathedral. Lewis said, “Kathy Keyes, Melinda Bundy, Judy Birge, Liz Browning, and Barb Fitzgerald, it was just all of these wonderful women who I get to reflect on within celebrating this 50 years, have helped me become the teacher I am today.” These women and educators like Lewis inspire young women each day on the Hill. We owe it to Cathedral to leave it a better place than when we arrived. We also owe it to all the females who have come before us and served as our role models and to do the same for the future generations of women to enter Cathedral. It is very apparent that these past 50 years of women at Cathedral High School has been very impactful in many
During the 2025-2026 school year, the entire student body, faculty, and community gathered for an All-School Mass and a celebration celebrating 50 Years of Women at Cathedral. After the Mass, every woman in attendance gathered for a photo. Smith said, “The goal is to help students understand that really there are 50 years of women who have led in all capacities here at Cathedral, either through athletics, faith, service, and academics.” Photo by Lacey Nix.
ways. Perhaps the most important female presence at Cathedral High School is Mother Mary. “With Her leading, we shall not tire. Our Lady on the Hill, pray for us.”
Irishconnection.net
Bonds Beyond the Yardline The Girls Flag Football Team is making history, crafting a legacy, and creating a new tradition on the Hill.
By: Sutton Breving
The Girls Flag Football Team stands in a huddle together before a game. On this night, they played North Central for their 3rd game of the season on September 23. Edisyn Krug, student and senior team captain of the team, said, “This was one of the harder games for us as a team, but the fight to keep each other going grew us closer together.” Photo by Karly Boggs.
The past three years at Cathedral High School, a new
learn plays, understand their teammates, and think
sport, opportunity, and tradition has been on the rise
quickly to make decisions during each game.
and taking over the fields. The Girls Flag Football
Some might think the game looks simple from the
Team is here to make their mark. The team has be-
bleachers, but the competition requires preparation,
come an amazing addition to Cathedral athletics. It
focus, and hard work, just as any other sport does.
gives these girls a chance to grow, compete, and form
Head Coach, Eric Bruns, who is also an Economics Ed-
new relationships, all while representing their school
ucator and former Hall of Fame high school quarter-
in a sport that continues to gain popularity.
back, has worked very hard to build this program from
For many of these girls, playing flag football gives
the ground up.
them a chance to try something different that is not
Bruns said, “We are building something new and cre-
usually a traditional activity schools offer. Playing
ating tradition in real time. We talked a lot about this
this sport involves athleticism, teamwork, communi-
at the end of the season, asking the seniors what they
cation, and strategy. Just like other sports, these girls
want their legacy to be. The success that we will have
The Megaphone
in the future is built upon the efforts of the current
terns, so I can understand exactly what they are think-
seniors.”
ing by just looking at them in the game setting.” Having
The end goal is to build a legacy to inspire other girls
an older influence like the senior girls for these younger,
to want to play and try something new, and so far,
new players is a huge plus for opening up the commu-
each year the interest has grown significantly.
nity and making them feel welcome into this new thing
Flag football is a growing game and represents the
they are trying, maybe for the first time.
change in how females participate in athletics. Fe-
As the interest in girls’ flag football keeps growing, the
males are often misunderstood in the sports commu-
sport has the potential to become an important part
nity in the world today, so being given the opportuni-
of Cathedral’s athletic culture. Each season, more girls
ty to play gives these girls a way to change people’s
show interest in coming out to try something new. It
perspectives on female sports.
gives players an opportunity to improve while helping
Matt Cannady is the Defensive Coordinator on the
build a foundation for future teams.
flag footbal team at Cathedral and a Religion Educa-
The athletes playing today are not only creating memo-
tor off of the field.
ries for themselves but are also helping introduce future
Cannady said, “In a sport that is traditionally domi-
Cathedral students to the sport.
nated by men, it’s been incredible to witness the ex-
Bruns said, “We have seen new leaders emerge and
citement, tenacity, and courage to create new tradi-
push the team forward. We have also seen unbelievable
tions here on the Hill. I try to always let them know
contributions from some of the younger players that
that they are a part of history in the making and their
just needed to gain some experience on the field.”
legacy will last generations.”
Girls’ flag football is more than just a sport to some of
More and more schools are creating ways for female
these girls; it’s their passion. It takes hard work and
athletes to show their competitive abilities in football.
dedication, but with that comes legacy.
This allows these girls to experience the excitement
The rise of flag football is a prime example of what can
of a new sport, all while being able to build skills that
happen when students are given new opportunities to
can be used in other areas of their lives as well.
compete. It gives these girls the chance to have another
At Cathedral, the team has become another way for
place to challenge themselves, develop their confidence,
students to become involved, meet new people, and
and proudly wear the Cathedral name.As the team con-
become a part of the athletic program.
tinues to grow, so does the excitement surrounding it.
The team created opportunities for leadership as
Under the lights, on the field, and surrounded by team-
well. The players have to learn how to communicate
mates and classmates, Cathedral’s girls’ flag football
with each other and gain trust in their teammates
players are proving that there is room for everyone in
when it comes down to the wire and pressure in-
the game. A new sport is rising at Cathedral, and the
creases during a game. Captains and players who
girls are ready to make their mark.
have been playing for years can help incoming, new athletes learn plays and understand the game. This creates a community where teammates support one another. Edisyn Krug is a senior captain on the team this year. Krug said, “On the field, I try to lead the team by making sure everyone is in the right mindset and staying positive. I know my teammates and I know their pat-
Irishconnection.net
Ministry On The Move
Camput Ministry’s office was moved over the summer and there’s a certain feeling about it. By: Kyle Neeson where to sit,” Neeson said. “Being in the administration hallway doesn’t allow students that same overlap meaning that the students we get in here are students we already have a relationship with.” Because new students don’t wander in by accident anymore it’s a bit harder for the department to meet new students. Neeson said, “One of the main ways new students find our office now is through word of mouth and invitation.” Neeson still loves the new office because he now shares a room with Pifer making it easier to comStudents hanging out in Neeson and Pifer’s office during lunch. Some talking with Neeson and Pifer others just hanging out and talking with each other. “Our main priority is the students. Being available and putting aside the emails and schedules is the most important aspect of our job, and I think most of our students understand that about us,” said Pifer. Photo by Kyle Neeson.
municate with each other and with students.
If you’re a sophomore or upperclassman and you’ve been
hung out in the SLC. Pifer said, “I think the move has
in the SLC this school year you may have noticed that the two offices that were always so lively are no longer occupied by the same people. For a long time, the SLC was where the Campus Ministry Office was. It was a very loud and energetic area and it was a fun place to be. The Campus Ministry Offices have gone from two small offices in the SLC into one big office in Kelly Hall, what was formerly the SIT Office. The once loud and welcoming vibe is still welcoming, but much quieter. This year the school leaders decided to move Campus Ministry to the staff hallway so it could be closer to the counselors and the chapel. At first, Dave Neeson, Director of Campus Ministry and Matt Pifer, Assistant to Campus Ministry, were nervous about this move, wondering if incoming freshmen would be able to find their office and hangout in there as well as students who would regularly come in. Having to switch from a chaotic environment to a more chill environment can feel like a big change for the students who would regularly come in. For Neeson, the move changed how he saw and interacted with students daily. When the office was in the SLC, he would see new faces all of the time. Since his old office was in the SLC it also gave students who didn’t have a place to sit at lunch a place to eat, hangout, and meet new people. “When campus ministry was in the SLC we overlapped a lot more students at lunch and students that didn’t know
Pifer also enjoyed the move even though he still misses his old office a little bit. But he thinks the new spot helps them meet new students who may not have significantly increased our visibility with students. While I enjoyed having our offices in the SLC, this new location lends itself to making Campus Ministry easily accessible to anyone through the day, as well as being available to those that visit the counseling offices, or any new families touring our campus.” Pifer knew that sharing an office with Neeson would be a bit strange for students at first but after the first weeks of school, the students got used to it and really like being able to get help and advice from both Neeson and Pifer. Returning students like Senior Maxtom Rowe that used to go to both Neeson’s and Pifer’s office are okay with the change. Maxtom said, “I don’t think it matters that the location changed.” One thing that made him keep going back to their office after the move was “going to see Pifer and Neeson, to see the people I know, and it’s a lot more chill.” Moving away from the SLC and into Kelly Hall could have easily scared new students away. Instead it seems to have made Campus Ministry even better showing that it’s not the location that matters, it’s the people.
The Megaphone
Behind The Brew
The impact of Johnny Mac’s Coffeehouse for students. By: Brianna Pressley For the past 4 years, Johnny Mac’s Coffeehouse has served
Mac’s team have worked tirelessly to provide the best
the students of Cathedral drinks and cookies, but the thing
service possible for the customers who enjoy the coffee-
people often overlook isn’t making a frappuccino or making
house.
lemonade, it’s the opportunity to learn and grow.
Johnny Mac’s has evolved tremendously over the past
The student-run business is a way for students to gain ex-
few years, with new drinks, new people, and new man-
perience, skills, and knowledge that can be utilized in the
agement. However, no matter how much it changes
workforce. It teaches students real abilities that puts them
physically, the core values of the coffeehouse remain
ahead of the game in the workplace.
the same. Keeping it clean, respectful, and continuing
These qualities are present exceptionally well in sopho-
to leave a positive impression on the students that work
more student Grant Reid. Grant has been a Johnny Mac’s
there is what makes Johnny Mac’s such a special place.
employee since freshman year, making drinks and making
Dickerson said, “I believe what makes us special is the
memories. Grant is also the Vice President of the state DECA
community which supports us. This includes our ad-
Association and Chapter. His commitment to Johnny Mac’s
ministration, our student body, all of our stakeholders,
makes it a warm and welcoming place for students.
along with our mission and vision.”
“I’ve learned a lot about problem-solving, how businesses
The support that the students and faculty give the cof-
operate across several different aspects, and teamwork,”
feehouse make a huge difference in just about every
Grant said.
aspect of Johnny Mac’s, and brings the encouragement
Learning how to take initiative to benefit the people around
that the team needs to keep the shop at its best. As in-
you is a huge skill that everyone will eventually have to
significant it may seem, a little support goes a long way.
learn, but working at Johnny Mac’s can offer that early
Along with teaching valuable entrepreneurship skills,
for students. Of course, playing such a huge role in John-
working at Johnny Mac’s brings community among
ny Mac’s makes it harder to focus on other commitments.
co-workers and customers, as well as making memo-
Learning to balance it all teaches important time manage-
ries that will last beyond high school.
ment skills that can be put to use outside of high school and
Grant said, “I remember during Open House last year I
in the work environment.
had a great time working with Payten “PG” Elliott and
The tireless efforts of the staff at Johnny Mac’s are some-
during the rush and we were the only workers, it was
times overlooked, and Jesse Dickerson, Business Educator
great being on a time crunch.”
overseeing Johnny Mac’s said, “I wish that our faculty and
Working through obstacles and overcoming adversity
students knew the amount of time and resources that it has
are part of what makes it so rewarding to work at John-
taken in order to elevate the customer experience.” John-
ny Mac’s, and the memories that are made there are just
ny Mac’s has partnered with a minority owned bakery and
as valuable as the qualities and skills gained from being
Tractor Beverage recently, and the employees and Johnny
an employee there. From an outside point of view, Johnny Mac’s can be seen as more than a business class. Dave Neeson, Director of Campus Ministry, said, ”Watching students navigate the hardships of ordering products and placing the product correctly in their menu to see that it’s being utilized well, marketing, and learning how to be proactive in their life and not reactive, and Johnny Mac’s has taught them that.” It is evident that taking the opportunity to work at Johnny Mac’s comes with valuable ben-
Johnny Mac’s CoffeeHouse setting up for first lunch. The coffee house gives student workers opportunities to grow in leadership skills, marketing skills, and so much more. Photo submitted.
efits that can help develop employees into better people in the workplace and in their own lives.
Irishconnection.net
A Senior Season to Remember A great example of what it means to be a good student, teammate, friend, and person.
By: Leah Stubbs
Four years on varsity has brought Chloe Moss countless
Chloe has been looking forward to being a senior and
challenges, memories and accomplishments. And she re-
leading her team since freshman year. Although she is
flects on them as her senior year is winding down. She is
sad it has to come to an end, she also is happy that she
planning on playing volleyball at Valparaiso University
got to step up and be the leader she’s always wanted to
next fall. Valparaiso University is a division 1 school that
be.
has a very strong volleyball and academic program.
It has been a wonderful four years playing volleyball at
Chloe is loved by her teammates. One of her teammates,
Cathedral. Even though she is excited to play in college,
senior Sophia Farah said, “Chloe is always such a ball of
she will always miss her high school team.
joy, she is the person I would go to if I needed someone to
The culture and tradition in Cathedral volleyball is
cool me down, or hype me up when I’m on the court.”
something unmatched compared to other schools. Al-
Known for her bright humor and her positive attitude. No
though she will still experience these things in college,
matter what kind of day she is having, there is always a
it won’t be the same as it is at Cathedral.
smile on Chloe’s face. She does a great job of lifting up the
Now as she moves on to Valparaiso University, she’s
spirits of everyone around her.
most excited for the challenge of playing at the next
Volleyball is a time where lots of memories are shared.
level, meeting her teammates, and continuing to grow
Farah said, “I will always remember the moments before
as a player and a person. Committing can be a long
the ball is served when we are standing together at the net.
stressful process and the mind runs through a mil-
Chloe has made a big impact on this team and everyone
lion different thoughts during recruitment. Luckily
around her. Chloe is also a very determined player. She will
for Chloe, that wasn’t the case. She said, “I was excited
do whatever it takes to get a win for the team and she will
and relieved. Recruiting can be stressful, so it felt great
step up to the plate even in situations that might make her
knowing I had found a school where I could continue
uncomfortable.
playing volleyball and get a great education.”
Head Coach Karrie Quenichet said, “My most recent mem-
“Keep working, be coachable, and don’t compare your-
ory about Chloe was just a few weeks ago. As the great se-
self to everyone else. Be a good teammate and have fun
nior leader she is, she stepped up her production on the
because volleyball goes by faster than you think,” she
court to help us replace what we were missing due to in-
said.
juries. She pulled together 18 kills, 2 blocks, and hit .562 to
Chloe will forever have a lasting impact on the Cathe-
help us win against Zionsville and it was nothing short of
dral volleyball community.
heroic!” Most people average about 1-5 kills a set. Chole may be talented and hardworking but most of all she is humble. She constantly puts others before herself. Quenichet said, “Chloe is an optimistic person who always sees a path to success. Her positive energy draws others in and causes them to want to follow her to that success. She makes everyone around her feel better about any situation and she is so intelligent that she always finds a way through tough times. Her smile and timely sense of humor helps to make people feel at ease, including me. She earns the respect of everyone because she refuses to be outworked. As a leader, she does not ask anything of anyone that she is also not willing to do herself.”
Chloe and her team celebrate a Sectional Championship. The team defeated Chatard 3 sets to 0. Chloe said, “My favorite memories are the summer retreats, big games, bus rides, and time with my teammates. I’ve made some of my closest friends through volleyball.” Photo from Cathedral Facebook.
The Megaphone
A Journey of Courage and Wonder Cathedral’s theater department brought to life the tale of Alice the By: Kennedy Washington brave
Putting on a play takes more than learning lines and per-
can be especially demanding when people are learning
forming in front of an audience. It takes hours of practice,
new responsibilities and adjusting to unfamiliar faces.
teamwork, and people working behind the scenes to make
At the beginning of the school year, new students join
everything come together. Cathedral’s production of Alice
cast and crew, each bringing different talents, person-
The Brave gave students the chance to show their talents,
alities, and ideas. Finding a way to work together takes
meet new people, and work together to bring a story to life.
patience, communication, and a shared commitment to
Alice the Brave gave students an opportunity to showcase
the production. Despite those challenges Alex describes
their talents while building connections with fellow cast
this year’s group as passionate and dedicated to making
and crew members.
the show the best it could be.
Michael Moffatt, who has worked at Cathedral for more
While the actors bring the story to life in front of an au-
than 29 years, has seen the theater program change over
dience, another group works behind the curtains, often
time. The program has grown since he started, but it wasn’t
without receiving the same attention. Moffatt said that
about the numbers. Instead, he has noticed a difference in
there are about 30 people who work behind the scenes
relationships. “The way theater has grown is how the peo-
coming together to support the production. “We’re kind
ple treated each other”, Moffat said.
of like a family back here, it’s nice to make new friends
He explained that the theater environment used to feel more
and make connections every time I step backstage,” said
competitive, with people focused on getting the best roles.
London Griffin Class of 2029.
Over time, the program has become more focused on sup-
For Griffin and the rest of the crew, those behind the
porting one another and building a stronger community.
scene moments are another part of the story. Every tran-
That sense of belonging is something senior Alex Lashenik
sition, every detail, and every helping hand contributes
has come to appreciate. For Alex being involved in a pro-
to what the audience eventually sees. Even when their
duction is not just about standing onstage and performing.
work goes unnoticed their effort remains part of the
It is also about the people who make the experience mem-
performance.
orable. “We have this camaraderie and community in the
”I met a bunch of people, befriended a lot more people,
theater,”Alex said.
and theater just gets people more social with each oth-
Rehearsals give cast and crew members the chance to
er,” Alex said.
grow comfortable with one another, share laughs and work
Looking toward the future, Moffatt hopes to bring an-
through challenges together.
other Disney production to Cathedral, following previ-
“I think the practices are kind of the more meaningful parts
ous shows such as Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mer-
of the show,” Alex said. Still bringing a production togeth-
maid, Hunchback, and Mary Poppins. He also hopes to
er does not happen without challenges. Student-led shows
stage Les Miserables again before leaving the school, as it was the first production he worked on at Cathedral. As Alice the Brave brought its story to the stage, it also gave students the chance to discover new friendships, explore their creativity and become part of something bigger than themselves. The final curtain may mark the end of a performance, but the memories made during rehearsals, the bonds formed backstage, and the pride of
Liam Sullivan and Harper Gibbs are on stage at Cathedral’s auditorium for the fall production of Alice the brave. During this scene Harper plays Alice while Liam plays her crazed uncle who supports her “odd” behavior. “Everyone is mad here!” Says Harper Gibbs. The play shows the reality in being true to yourself and your personal character.
creating something together can last much longer.
Irishconnection.net
Lady Irish Futbol
From city title streak to regional hootout heartbreak
By: Brooklyn Nickols
The Cathedral High School girls varsity soccer team wrapped up a very up and down 2026 season with an overall record of 12-6-1, leaving behind a legacy of dominance, a high-scoring offense, and a close group of girls. Led by Head Coach Marc Behringer, the Lady Irish overcame their regular season schedule hitting their biggest goals. Reclaiming the city championship title and powering through a tough IHSAA Class 3A postseason bracket. Even though their tournament run ended in the most heartbreaking way possible, a sudden-death penalty shootout, the stats and close bond from this year definitely proved that Cathedral is still one of the best programs in the state. The most exciting part of the regular season went down on September 30, 2026, when Cathedral faced off against a tough Bishop Chatard team in the City Tournament Championship game. Going in as the favorites but feeling massive pressure to keep their winning streak alive, the Lady Irish came out locked in and left with a huge 3-0 shutout to lock down their fourth straight city championship. The game perfectly showed off how creative and fast the offense was all year. Juniors Shailoh Neu and Brooklyn Nickols came out with high intensity and left the game with all 3 goals. Neu said, “It was so fun to play with my team, and the bond between all of us is something special.” That massive win pushed the team’s record to 9-5-1 and gave them all the momentum they needed for sectionals. Riding high off the city title, the girls entered the Class 3A Sectional 10 tournament over at Lawrence Central. In the opening round on Monday, October 5, Cathedral drew the host school, the Lawrence Central Bears. Cathedral stayed disciplined and wore them down for a hard fought 3-1 win. The competition continued getting better and better on Wednesday, October 7, in a total defensive battle against Lawrence North. Cathedral managed to squeeze out a 1-0 victory to punch their ticket to the finals. Senior Akron commit Quinn Usher talked about the team’s mindset after the game, saying, “We knew it was going to be a physical battle, but our chemistry and senior leadership kept us composed to find a way to win.” By the time the sectional final rolled around against Arsenal Tech, the
The Cathedral girls soccer team celebrates with the City championship trophy after defeating the Bishop Chatard Trojans. They won 3-0 with the shutout in the hard fought battle. Photo by Lacey Nix.
girls were firing on all cylinders. The Lady Irish completely overwhelmed Tech from the very first whistle, keeping possession the entire time to capture the sectional title in a 10-0 blowout. Unfortunately, the postseason hype met a devastating heart break in the first round of regionals. Cathedral drew Noblesville High School, which is always one of the top powerhouse teams in the state. For 80 minutes of regulation and multiple exhausting overtime periods, neither team would break. The Cathedral backline was playing together, tracking back, and the goalkeeping came up with huge saves to stop Noblesville’s intense attack. With the scoreboard stuck at 0-0 even after overtime, they went to penalty kicks. Both teams made their first five penalty kicks, sending the shootout deep into sudden death. Coming down to the season ending kick, Cathedral ultimately fell short 8-7 on PKs, ending their drive for the state title. The blueprint of this 12-6-1 season was definitely built on some incredible individual performances. Usher was an absolute brick wall on the back line, stopping opponent counters and jumpstarting the team’s own attacks. The senior captains Grace Drewery, Eliza Coe, and Usher led with great responsibility followed by the class below them. The juniors have big shoes to fill and are ready to accomplish even more next year. Although the sudden death loss hurt, the 2026 team left everything on the field, brought another sectional trophy back to Cathedral, and set the standard high for the next generation of the Lady Irish.
The Megaphone
The Usher Legacy Looking at senior captain Quinn Usher’s committment to Irish By: Rowan Parrish soccer.
Quinn Usher just finished her fourth year as a varsity player
Quinn played soccer her freshman year with her older
for the Lady Irish girls soccer team. She’s headed to Akron
sister Amaya, who was a senior at the time, who also
next fall to continue her soccer career. Quinn is an amazing
plays D1 soccer for Toledo. Quinn played her junior and
athlete that has worked hard everyday to get to where she
senior year with her younger sister Saige.
has gotten, playing D1 women’s soccer at Akron. She’s a four
Usher said, “Sometimes it’s challenging playing with
year varsity player and this year’s team captain.
Saige because we argue a lot but it’s also so fun and such
Junior and varsity starter, teammate Brooklyn Nickols said,
a blessing I get to play with her.”
“Quinn is a great captain and is very motivating”. Quinn has
Saige and Quinn also played on the same club team to-
always been a team leader for the girls along with being a
gether all their life and this is their first year not being
reliable player the girls can count on.
on the same team. Last year the girls soccer team beat
The recruiting program for college soccer can be really hard
both Noblesville and Carmel, two of the hardest teams
now that club and travel soccer have become bigger than
and that wouldn’t have been possible without Usher.
school soccer so it’s extremely hard to get colleges to look
Behringer said, “We’ll probably miss that confidence
at players.
that we had defensively with her, as our centerback, be-
Quinn’s advice to girls trying to play in college is “to train
cause you know for years, that if a team tries to attack
outside of just going to your team practices and to not give
the space wide or behind that Quinn’s been there to be
up, because things get hard and it’s important to stay pos-
the primary defender to slow that attack down and give
itive.” Quinn played for varsity Head Coach Marc Behring-
us an opportunity to get people back into defensive po-
er for all of her four years at Cathedral. They grew a close
sitions.”
bond and he knew Quinn was a player they could trust in
Usher has played soccer since she was seven. She
any situation to work her hardest and play to the best of her
played soccer with Saige most of her life. Quinn said she
abilities. Behringer said, “This year, we’ve taken her from a
chose Akron because they check in on her and always
defensive role, which is what she’s had, the majority of her
let her know where she stood with them. As a player
life, and certainly here for 3 years and we put her up front
it’s really important to weigh out options for choosing
to attack, and she responded by scoring goals. So, we know
schools such as community, coaches, players, educa-
that she’s a very talented player, and certainly not one di-
tion, distance and the team records and the fact Akron
mensional.”
always gave Quinn updates and showed that they real-
Quinn has been playing soccer since she was seven and
ly cared about her is just what a player wants to think
through all of her experience she believes a lot of her suc-
about when making decisions that big.
cess came from working outside of practice and working
The lady Irish soccer team truly won’t be the same with-
out at home or at facilities.
out Usher and the legacy she left with the team. Replacing such a great talent, but also a great person is almost impossible to do for any time. Usher also had such a strong bond with the team and with the girls. She has worked so hard for her success and now she gets to use her talents at Akron after working very hard at Cathedral and using her talents to help the lady Irish team grow each year working with her teammates to use her
This is the lady Irish soccer team praying before one of their games last year. Last year Quinn, number 3, had 2 goals and 3 assists.Teammate Brooklyn Nickels said about Quinn, “ she works really hard no matter what position she plays and she never stops working.” Photo from Cathedral’s Girls Soccer Instagram page.
talents.
Irishconnection.net
The Voices of the Irish
Cathedral Leprechauns Ben Parr and Max Kubacki bring students together through school spirit
By: Lila Yeadon
The whistle blows, all of the players take the field, and the
Attending as many games as possible, bringing props,
student section begins to fill with blue and gold. In the
and making games enjoyable are some of the ways he
middle of it all, Leprechauns Ben Parr and Max Kubac-
works toward that goal.
ki work to keep the energy alive. Their job is more than
A strong student section can change the atmosphere
starting cheers. They went to bring the Cathedral family
of a game and motivate the team when the pressure is
together, one game at a time.
high. The cheers from the crowd give players anoth-
At Cathedral, the Leprechauns play a huge role in creat-
er reason to push themselves and make their school
ing the atmosphere of the student section. Through their
proud.
leadership and school spirit, Parr and Kubacki encourage
“When we hear the crowd cheering, it gives us more
students to get involved and help the crowd work toward
energy and makes us want to play harder,” Cathedral
earning the banner. For them, success means more than
football player Evan Johnson said. “It makes big games
just being loud. It means building a community where ev-
feel even more exiciting.”
ery student feels like they are a part of the same team.
Although Parr and Kubacki help lead the crowd, they
Being chosen as the Leprechaun comes with both excite-
know earning the banner is not something they can
ment and responsibility. The leaders understand that stu-
accomplish alone. It depends on students continuing
dents look to them to set the tone at games and encourage
to show up, participate, and support the team through-
school spirit. However, they believe their personalities and
out the season.
willingness to have fun make them suited for the role.
The Leprechauns plan to keep setting that example by
“We’re kind of just a couple dudes goofing off on the side-
showing up with the same energy and encouraging
lines, but we are so all in to make it fun for everyone that
others to do the same. They believe Cathedral already
our energy bleeds into everyone else” Parr said.
has the pride and dedication needed to succeed. Now,
Starting a cheer does not guarantee that everyone will join
the challenge is to keep that spirit alive at every game.
in, but they continue to lead because they want students to
At the end of the day, the student section is about more
enjoy the experience. “There’s definitely real risk of look-
than a banner or a score. It is about the connections
ing stupid out there,” Parr said. “But me and Max aren’t re-
students build when they come together to support
ally worried about that at all because we’d rather chance
their school.
looking a little stupid than never having this fun energy.”
With Parr and Kubacki leading the way, Cathedral’s
That willingness to put themselves out there helps create
blue and gold become a reminder that school spirit is
an environment where students can participate without
strongest when everyone is part of it.
worrying about what others think. Rather than standing on the sidelines as bystanders, students have the chance to become part of something bigger. For Kubacki, one of the biggest goals this year is earning the banner for the student section. He believes reaching this goal requires more than showing up to important games. It takes consistency, dedication, and unity across every grade. Kubacki has focused on encouraging involvement throughout the school. Instead of allowing freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors to remain separated by their own friend groups, he hopes to create one united community.
The Leprechauns encourage students to join cheers and show school spirit. Their goal is to unite the student body and help Cathedral earn the student section banner. “I think a big part of the zone banner is unity but also spirit as well,” said Parr. Photo from Leprechaun Instagram.
The Megaphone
Humble Beginnings. Proud Growth. Black Student Union is already in full swing. By: Jacob Caine The 2026-2027 school year is in full swing and with it clubs
the meeting said, “I felt like there’s a new community
are beginning to start back up with their first meetings of
and people I can go to.”
the year. One of these clubs is Cathedral’s own Black Stu-
After the main portion of the meeting was over, the
dent Union.
members of the club came together in prayer and cele-
On September 2nd, the BSU had their first meeting of the
brated each other’s accomplishments. Students shared
year and it was truly something to behold. The Black Stu-
many different types of achievements ranging from
dent Union has come a long way from its humble begin-
more academic achievements, such as getting an A on
nings when the club was founded in 2017.
a test, all the way to ones pertaining to extracurriculars,
Club moderator and educator, Mrs. Jean Smith said, “The
such as things like upcoming plays they would star in
BSU presence on campus has been felt from the start of the
or winning a game in the sport that they play.
school year to the end.”
Members sharing the high points of their lives in high
Th growth of BSU is further seen in the attendance of this
school and connecting in prayer truly shows how the
first meeting as the SLC was full of students, most of which
club serves as a place for community that is based on
being freshmen, eagerly waiting to participate in the meet-
uplifting each other, solidarity amongst members, and a
ing.
place to embrace God as an aspect of their lives both at
The meeting consisted of introducing the leaders of the club
Cathedral and there time after.
and a variety of icebreakers, such as four corners and “this
After the meeting, there was a clear feeling of hope
or that,” which helped to build familiarity amongst all those
and excitement for Black Student Union in the coming
attending and thus make them become more comfortable
school year amongst the new members.
and outgoing as the meeting went on.
However, the hope felt by the leader was of a different
This comfortability was incredibly beneficial to the flow
variety as it was a hope for the club after they graduate.
and feel of the meeting as Senior and BSU President Kar-
This feeling can be captured in the words of Karrington
rington Williams said, “I think everybody just needed to get
Williams who states that after her graduation she feels
the hang of each other and get used to being in a meeting
that “it’s gonna get better and better each year, especial-
and being able to have fun.”
ly with the new things that we’re doing now.”
This hope of enabling every one to have fun was definite-
So, with this hope for the future of the Black Student
ly achieved as there wasn’t a moment during the meeting
Union carried by both the members and the leaders,
when someone wasn’t joking around or laughing, thus giv-
there is no doubt that the coming year for the club will
ing the room a very light-hearted and friendly atmosphere
be amazing and this pride will be carried on by the next
which helped to make the new students in attendance feel
generation of leaders and members of this club.
welcome and accepted. While the meeting itself had encountered a few bumps in the road, it still achieved its goal of introducing new students, many of whom were the only students of color in their classrooms before becoming members of the Cathedral family, to a thriving community of people that looked liked them and came from similar backgrounds as their own, which is something that can mean a lot to these students and help them feel less alone in a new environment and a new stage of life. This new feeling of a new found community can be seen in the words of freshman football player Joel Caine who after
Black Student Union club members ranging from freshmen to juniors pose together for a group picture during the first meeting of the year. The Black Student Union has been a place for black students to come together in solidarity since it first began in 2017. “What I look forward to seeing the most this year is really seeing all the different grades really unite,” said club moderator and educator Mrs. Smith. Photo submitted.
Irishconnection.net
The Rise of Girls Wrestling The inside view in girl’s wrestling growth and challenges they face all together.
By: Aimee Castro-Rodriguez
In the far back of the Cathedral campus, there lies a School did not have a girls wrestling team, but this all gym. It’s hidden behind all the others, but it’s there. changed during the 2024-2025 school year. Although When you walk around to the side of the building, this program is new to the world of girls wrestling, it open the door, there’s multiple people inside getting has without a doubt made a big name for itself. Coready for the practice ahead. They’re either stretch- incidentally, when the team formed, the IHSAA had ing or putting their wrestling shoes on. As you look officially authorized girls wrestling as a high school past them, the wide, dark blue, with circles of yellow sport. and white, wide mat covers the floor. Ready to be used In February 2025, Karissa Rousseve-Ross, class of equipment is everywhere waiting to help strengthen 2027, became the first female wrestler from Cathedral the athletes.
to win a match. This was the start of many wins this
All around you can hear the laughter and talk of program will achieve. Later on, transfer student Kenthe team. This is the atmosphere of the Fighting dall Moe, class of 2026, who is also a four-time state Irish wrestling gym. For many years Cathedral High champion, arrived at Cathedral and went on to win the
Junior Aanas Gladney brings her opponent to the ground and wins. Her team won overall finishing 5 to 1 on September 6, 2026 at the Wild Wild Midwest National Duals. “Wrestling has taught me discipline, mental toughness, and how to push through challenges even when things get difficult. It has helped me become more confident, responsible, and determined, both on and off the mat. Most importantly, wrestling has taught me that I am capable of more than I think if I stay focused and never give up,” said Gladney. Photo submitted.
The Megaphone
first ever girls wrestling state title in the history of
a great team and build a strong, healthy relationship be-
Cathedral High School.
tween one another.
Other exceptional players such as Arryn Garrard,
Coach Lavin said, “A good team is a team that shares the
class of 2026, and Aanas Gladney, class of 2028, ad-
same goals together and are willing to put in the work
vanced deep into the postseason.
to help each other reach those goals.”
From where Head Coach Tim Lavin stands, he gets
The upcoming season, and new struggles that come
to see the shining players grow and progress as they
along with it, will push these wrestlers to grow and gain
learn new things every day. Getting to see those
new abilities. They will be able to achieve a higher level
changes is amazing. Seeing someone that you have
of success because of it.
taught and was able to learn from you is a relief in
The players are able to create a bond over the game as
itself. Coaching itself allows others to teach differ-
well as outside of the game and in believing in one an-
ent view points about a certain sport. Also not only
other. Going through the exercises together, or even go-
does it allow you to teach the players how to win the
ing to Hocoming as a group are some of the things that
games, but also help make the players become a bet-
bring them closer.
ter version of themselves.
Wrestling in general, but especially at Cathedral, is al-
Coach Lavin said, “Us coaches are teaching life les-
ways about focusing on the journey, not the outcome.
sons at the same time as teaching about sports.”
Wrestling is without a doubt a sport that heavily re-
Players get to learn that their’s more stuff beyond the
lies and revolves around one’s mentality. Focusing too
game in learning then just the game itself. To love the
much on wins and loses won’t allow the athlete to see
sport and gain new experiences that you wouldn’t
the details that determine the outcome of the match.
imagine.
Wrestlers don’t always improvements right away, but
Players coming back to continue wrestling are able
they are there to help overcome any other challenges
to see other players grow into their own person.
faced in the future. These athletes always make sure to
Athletes like junior Aanas Gladney and senior Syd-
stay positive and keep a growth mindset. Losses do not
nie Beene started off strong in their first two years
define any athlete, let alone a wrestler. It is always about
in wrestling. As days go on, one of them will have to
improvement and perseverance.
step off the mat leaving a strong history as members
Coach Lavin said, “If you focus on getting better at some-
of Cathedral’s first girl’s wrestling team.
thing every practice, every day, every tournament then
Beene said, “I hope I can leave behind a positive ex-
by the time Sectionals gets here, you may have some
ample for them to follow. I want them to know that
losses, but your improvement will be way beyond those
I will always be here to support them even beyond
wrestlers that just focus on the outcome.”
graduation.” This exceptional athlete demonstrates the strength and support of wanting to see her teammates to succeed in wrestling. Gladney said, “A great team means supporting each other, pushing each other to improve and staying together through wins and losses.” The girl’s wrestling team and Coach Lavin show what great teamwork and leadership looks like. Every single one of the players is striving hard to create
Irishconnection.net
Swinging Above Her Years How a sophomore golfer has already begun building a Cathedral legacy on the links.
By: Karly Boggs
For The Lady Irish Golf Team, Sophomore Mallory when approaching my first shot is, ‘stripe it down the Jake has been such a big inspiration for the younger middle of the fairway,” Mallory said. It helps her regeneration who love the sport that Mallory has suc- main focused and believe in all preparations made ceeded in at such a young age.
before the game. Most of her success story is owed
Despite only being 15 years old, Mallory has established to all those people who have been supporting her all herself on the golfing course. Mallory has worked tire- throughout her career in golfing. Her parents, sisters, lessly in an effort to hone her skills and develop her- swing coach, mental coaches, teammates, and many self to become one of the greatest golfers there is in others helped Mallory achieve what she is today. the area at her age. Her efforts have helped mold her “They have taught me about the importance of teaminto what she is today. With the help and support of work and that no one can do anything alone, it takes a her friends and family, Mallory plans to continue her whole team effort to reach somewhere in life,” Mallory journey throughout high school and, hopefully, further said. at the college level.
She owes her love for the sport to her parents who in-
Golf is not just a sport for Mallory but it is a means troduced golf to her as a hobby. Eric Jaske, Mallory’s to test oneself, develop skills, and reap rewards from father, said, “It was something that we could all do tohard work and determination. Participating in compe- gether as a family. All of us love it and can help her titions and winning has made her feel accomplished.
with various aspects of the game.” Nevertheless, there
“It is a great feeling to be able to compete at a high
is a different kind of difficulty associated with watch-
level and to know that all my hard work has paid off,” ing Mallory play. Mallory said.
Watching Mallory play is quite emotional for her fam-
While there are many difficulties when it comes to ily because according to Kelly Jascke, Mallory’s Mothplaying golf, the mental aspect of the game has been er, “It is stressful because you feel every shot your particularly challenging growing up and learning the child takes. It is a slow, grinding game in which you game.
feel every shot and you ride the emotional wave with
“It is the hardest part of the game and something that your child.” takes practice,” she said. In order to overcome this, Regardless of the emotions they feel while watching Mallory works on her mental aspect of each match Mallory play, what her parents appreciate most about every week. When looking back, Mallory said, “If I her is her dedication and perseverance to getting betcould give myself one piece of advice it would be to ter every single day. start working on my mental game sooner rather than Eric said, “She has continued to show perseverance, later because it is something a golfer can always con- resilience and grit.” tinue to improve.”
As Mallory moves ahead with her golfing career, her
Most of Mallory’s success is owed to the people who intentions will be to continue working hard and growhave been supporting her throughout her journey.
ing in her game. Mallory has high goals and dreams.
When Mallory prepares for her matches, she simplifies “The aims I have for my golfing career are to continher mind to one particular thought. “All I think about ue growing and working hard but ultimately reaching
The Megaphone
Mallory Jaske in the heated midst of a swing of the last hole of the last match of the 2026 season. After this match Mallory has big plans to continue her training coming into her junior year. Mallory strives to be the best she can be not just for herself but for her family as well and to continue to play the sport she loves. Photo by Karly Boggs.
the state. This is my main goal,” Mallory said.
Mallory has impressed not only herself but also
With all the encouragement and help from her fami-
her coaches as well. With the support of her family,
ly, coaching staff, team members, and, friends, along-
coaches, teammates and friends, Mallory keeps on
side her own ambition to grow in the game, Mallory
striving to achieve her goal.
keeps moving forward toward achieving this goal. Cathedral’s Head Girl’s Golf Coach, Religion Educator Nick Jamell, is also under the opinion that the experience that she has gained over the years has been very important in making her successful at such a young age. Coach Jamell said, “The key to her success is the experience she has. She has been playing competitive golf for years now.”
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