Volume 19, Issue 6 - May 2021, Senior Edition

May 2021 the

J.W. Mitchell High School 2323 Little Road New Port Richey, FL 34655

https://connectplus.pasco.k12.fl.us/jwmhs-hoofbeat/

Issue 6 Volume 19

hoofbeat

“I’m excited about graduation because it’ll finally be the end of twelve years of schooling. My parents and sisters are coming, and I wish we were able to have more guests because my grandparents would have liked to attend as well.” Julian Costello (‘21) said. (page 14)

Issue Six

2021 Outstanding Senior

Tiffani Bidgood

Table of

Contents

To me, being Outstanding Senior was something that I am so incredibly grateful for. It is something that I truly never imagined myself to be thought of for, but I am so thankful that I was. It really is an honor to be the Outstanding Senior for my class, but I consider all of us Outstanding Seniors if we have made it all the way through high school going through the ups and downs these couple years have brought!

Tiffani Bidgood

Senior Issue

News (page 3)

• Recognizing the Class of 2021’s top ten students

Lifestyles (pages 5-7) • National Honor Society local heroes celebration • Teachers’ last words of wisdom for graduating seniors • College decisions for class of 2021 and their location on the map

Centerspread (pages 8-9)

(pg. 3) Photo by Riley Curie

(pg. 5)

Photo by Bella Holton

• Senior superlatives

Sports (pages 11-13)

• 11 students athletes commit to colleges • 2 ROTC seniors win first place titles at nationals • Gregg Schindler Girl Athlete of the Month Grace Young (‘21) • Gregg Schindler Boy Athlete of the Month Justin Fisher (‘21) • Faces in the Crowd: What is your favorite sports memory • Senior record-breakers • Recap of each varsity teams’ results

Entertainment (page 14)

• Grace Wilson (21) inaugural Gregg Schindler Band Student award winner • Senior end-of-year activities • Seniors improve colorguard for future years

Opinions (page 15)

• Close look on thought process behind majors • What students plan for summer and college • Past graduates give advice for new graduates

Back Page (page 16)

• Living off-campus vs living on-campus

Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram at

@mhshoofbeat

Check out our online newspaper:

https://connectplus.pasco.k12.fl.us/jwmhs-hoofbeat/

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CONTENTS

(pg. 4)

Photo by Alana Walker

Editorial

Policy

Published six times a school year, the student newspaper of J.W. Mitchell High School is a public forum with its student editorial board making all the decisions concerning its contents. Unsigned editorials express the views of the majority of the editorial board.

Letters to the editor are welcomed and will be published as space allows. Letters must be signed, although the staff may withhold the name upon request. The paper reserves the right to edit letters for grammar and clarity, and all letters are subject to laws governing obscenity, libel, privacy and disruption of the school process, as are all contents of the paper.

Opinions of letters are not necessarily those of the staff nor should any opinion expressed in a public forum be construed as the opinion or policy of the school administration, unless attributed.

(pg. 4) Photo by Susan McNulty

HoofbeatStaff Editors

Gracie Glover

Hailey Kroll

editor-in-chief

editor-in-chief

sports editor

news editor

Jelayna Vasquez Ashley Hoskins Emma Diehl sports editor

Hayley Fliss

centerspread editor

Riley Curie

Emma Rogers

business manager/copy editor

Valerie Farrar

Reporters Davis Burnette Luke Cartiglia Nicole Sofia Barrios Moreno Sofia Chianella

Faith Giambarberee

backpage editor

lifestyles editor

Alexa Grubbs

Ostina Myrtil

Laynie Mazur

Amelia Marty

online/social media manager

Tori Marjan ent. editor

opinions editor

Susan McNulty adviser

Marina Saviceva-Noti

Avery Weber

Class of 2021 Top Ten 3 2 1 4

Gitanjali Reddy

Tatiana Maher

College: Georgetown University Major: International Politics and Healthcare Administration

College: University of Florida Major: Finance

Jessica Lin College: University of California, Los Angeles Major: Biochemistry

5

Sofia Mejia-Naccarato

Louis Chianella College: University of Florida Major: Political Science

College: University of South Florida Major: Biology

Photos Taken by Jelayna Vasquez

8

7

5

Sharon Warrior College: University of South Florida Major: Biomedical Sciences

The top ten for the Class of 2021 share excitement for the future in their chosen school and field of study.

An Le College: University of Florida Major: Biochemistry

9

9 Hailee Byrne

College: Florida State University Major: Finance

Katryna Adamski College: University of Florida Major: Nutrition

NEWS

Naomi Do-Cao

College: University of Florida Major: Biochemistry

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Class of 2021 Senior Memories More than just

Prom [with Christine Wicker (‘21)] was my favorite memory because it’s my first and last prom.

I got to see everyone together before we all split up for college.

pictures

Tanner Dishman (‘21)

Photo provided by Alana Walker

Photo provided by Tanner Dishman

Photo provided by Carson Decker

Photo provided by Tiffani Bidgood

[Homecoming] night was very memorable because I got to spend time with a lot of my close friends.

Scott

Pirozzi (‘21)

Photo provided by Stephen White

Photo provided by Kaylie Washington

Homecoming week is one of my favorite memories because being able to show our school spirit by dressing up each day with my best friends is so fun.

Especially after the past year not having things like this, makes it extra special looking back!

Alana Photo provided by Tiffani Bidgood

Photo provided by Alana Walker

Walker (‘21)

Photo provided by Bella Holton

Photo provided by Layne Mazur

Photo provided by Tiffani Bidgood

The donut relay at Gulf was definitely one of the best meets of the cross country season. I really enjoyed having a fun meet like that where we just got to dress up, do silly things, and eat donuts.

Photo by Davis Burnette

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Benjamin

Horvath (‘21)

SENIOR MEMORIES

Photo provided by Tiffani Bidgood

Photo provided by Hailey Kroll

Dance team senior night was one of my favorite memories because all the seniors got to eat food and hang out.

Mallory

Bachman (‘21)

Photo provided by Mallory Bachman

Photo provided by Layne Mazur

[Dressing up with my friends] is one of my favorite memories from high school because I was excited to see what creative character ideas my friends came up with!

It’s nostalgic to look back on a school year with no pandemic, especially since I take all of my courses online this year and do not see my friends often. I really hope I can see everyone’s smiling faces soon!

Jessica

Photo provided by Isabella Desiante

Photo provided by Hailey Kroll Photo provided by Kaylie Washington

Lin (‘21)

After being at Mitchell for four years, I met lifelong friends and learned so many lessons. Walking into school the first day as a freshman, I was both nervous and excited for the adventure ahead. I thought four years of my life was a long time, but the amount of fun I had as a student at this school made it feel like a blink of an eye.

Nikhil Photo provided by Hailey Kroll

Boyd (‘21)

Photo provided by Nikhil Boyd

Photo provided by Tiffani Bidgood

Photo provided by Bella Holton

Photo provided by Kaylie Washington

Photo provided by Madison Slusser

Photo provided by Kassandra Hernandez

When I look back on all of the memories I made in high school, I will forever cherish the ones I have made on the cheerleading team. This picture represents all of us celebrating our senior year together and prepping for one of our games!

Isabella

Desiante (‘21)

Photo provided by Kaylie Washington

This is one of my favorite memories because we were relieving the stress of AP exams by going to the Baywinds concert to watch our friends play music. We had the windows down, blasting music, and singing along to the music.

Bella

Holton (‘21)

Photo provided by Isabella Desiante

Photo provided by Carson Decker

SENIOR MEMORIES

Photo provided by Bella Holton

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Serving the country, inspiring youth

The National Honor Society (NHS) holds a Hero Appreciation Day to honor veterans, first responders, and other local heroes Ostina Myrtil social media manager On Thursday, Apr. 8, National Honor Society (NHS) Support our Local Heroes committee members saw their planning and hard work for Hero Appreciation Day come alive. This event showed appreciation toward local firefighters, police officers, first responders, frontline workers, and more.

“In the club, Benson Thacher (‘21) and I are in charge of the Support our Local Heroes committee, where our purpose is to give thanks and to give back to front-line heroes, police officers, armed forces, and more. One of our committee members, Samantha

Madeira, brought up the idea of hosting an event as a way of giving thanks to our local heroes for all that they do for us,” Bella Holton (‘21) said.

Holton, as well as the rest of the committee, believed the event would be a fun and interactive way to include students in Hero Appreciation Day. Not only did the event show recognition for those whom it was meant for, but students as well with family members or friends who are in those professions had the opportunity to become involved as well.

“The week before [Hero Appreciation Day], there were people that went around during lunches and

asked them if they had anybody that they wanted to recognize whether it was a teacher or frontline worker, or police officer, or firefighter that they knew, and they were able to write their names on cards and then those cards word displayed throughout the courtyard,” NHS President Tatiana Maher (‘21) said.

NHS member Matthew Benjamin (‘21) appreciated this event, as his dad was both a Petty Officer and Core Man in the United States Navy and his grandfather was a part of the Merchant Marines in World War 2.

“I feel that the recognition of our first responders, military and other essential workers is very important

especially after what many of them have gone through with the pandemic. Even with my dad having been in the military, I’ve very happy that we are recognizing the individuals who are putting their lives on the line in service to our community and country, ensuring that our interests continue in our everyday life,” Benjamin said.

Overall, heroes and children of heroes appreciated NHS members Heroes Appreciation Day. Officers in NHS stated they would like to continue this event in the future and add different things, like working with local law enforcement and firefighters, to help show them that they are cared for.

The National Honor Society (NHS) holds a celebration of local heroes, including law enforcemnet, healthcare workers, educators, and those who served in the military.

“One of our committees aimed to show [local heroes] they are heard and appreciated in our community,“ NHS president Tatiana Maher said.

Photo by Jelayna Vasquez

Sending you off with words of wisdom Teachers offer their words of advice to graduating seniors who lived through their last year of high school during a pandemic

Mr. Orrego

You are all incredible people, don’t let anyone make you feel otherwise. You have worked through some of hardest years humanity has seen in the last hundred years. You did not give up, and now you know that you are able to get through anything life throws your way.

Mrs. Hampton Mr. Burnes Good luck Seniors with the next chapter in your life! Enjoy your overall college experience because it goes by too fast. Stay focused on your goals, but most importantly stay true to yourself.

Life is full of adversity, but this year above all others, has shown us that you are strong and can overcome any challenge set before you. Take time to appreciate the challenges you will face because ultimately, these will build your character and resilience. You’ve got this; go forth and conquer the world!

Mrs. Seletos

Mr. Scott

Your future begins now. Don’t squander the opportunity to become the best version of yourself; keep working toward your goals and embrace the “productive struggle” of it all! My hope for your future is that you live a life of integrity, conviction, and kindness. Don’t live for others; live for you. I will miss you, class of 2021!

Compound interest. “He who understands it earns it; he who doesn’t pays it.” Quote attributed to Einstein.

Apply the same logic to index funds. Don’t let college get in the way of your education (Twain). Read (or watch on YouTube) Plato’s the Allegory of the Cave. It will give you insight into the next six months of your life. And as always, don’t spit into the wind.

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LIFESTYLES

How far until your next big adventure Below are the senior graduates attending a university or technical school who filled out the informational survey on Canvas

Florida State University Juan Velez Alana Moses Sophia Henges Benjamin Horvath Hailee Byrne Avery Weber Taylor Strupp Sophia Morgan Maya Savoie Colby Jacobs Morgan Clancy Kaylie Washington Tiffani Bidgood Morgan Zimmerman Luke Schindler Sarah Evans Robert Ganley Hailey Schneider Renee Weissberger Jackson Leiby Olivia Trancho Pasco Hernando State Ciara O’Shea Isabella Napoli Nicole Mathews Daniela Castro Neil Phelps Devin Nelson Keaton Howard Amy Helgeson Taylor Sanford Julian Costello

Karsten Mohr Kassandra Hernandez Miah Wuthrich Jenna King Summer Baran Alana Walker Alannah D’Avila Manuel Colon-Torres Nicholas Constantino Kylie Norton University of Central Florida Benson Thacher Ronald Fuimara Mikayla Michael Stephen White Sarina Mathew Lennon Tobey Courtney Kaelin Daniel Slort Andrea Aguayo Hailey Walek Kamalie Thomas Ezra Brennan Carson Decker Jamie Scura Sarah Logan Olivea Voigt Cooper Rhoads Samantha Madeira Joel Wasley Kaylianna Washington Hunter Jones Marcuz Hernandez Layne Mazur

University of Florida Naomi Do-Cao Grace Wilson Salma Balile Katryna Adamski Jelayna Vasquez Valerie Farrar Jillian Misemer An Le Louis Chianella Nicole Granda Riley Curie Hannah Spinney Mallory Bachmann James Hill Victoria Redinger Jack Goldstein Tatiana Maher University of South Florida Dan Hakim Evyenia Mouratoglou Isabella Desiante Athanasius Beskaly Silvia Cannarella Sharon Warrior Lauren Sammartano Sofia Mejia-Naccarato Steven Alvarez Lillian Cletcher Bella Holton Grace Glover Pearl Torres Bernadette Yaman

Kaylee Edwards

Matthew Aldino Christine Wicker Simran Saini Isabella Richko Vanessa Legrow Kyle McIntyre Ty Kingsley Florida Gulf Coast University

Ostina Myrtil Florida Institute of Technology Teodora Stojanovska Tallahassee Community

Elias Pasiourtis St. Pete College

Chadee Smith Tulane University

Brooke Minear Joseph Mulligan Harrison O’Grady Chad Monson

Isabella Newton Virginia Wesleyan University

Gianna Corio Alina Herny

Madison Slusser Valparaiso University

Cassandra Graham Rachel Yannello Alexa Dusch

Jonathan Fairbank U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

Brenna Peterson Daelynn Benitez Florida Atlantic University Hailey Guy Kierstynn Stefanik Emma Rogers Madeline Cappola Saint Leo University Ciara O’Shea Caroline Ryzowicz

Florida Agricultural & Mechanical

Alexis Meloche Rasmussen University

Sainandan Challagundla Loyola University

Matthew Benjamin Lake Eerie College Evan Brennan Larry Legg University of Tennessee Theodore Searcy Centre College Gary Shepard Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Grace Christiansen Miami University

University of Tampa

Allison White Emerson College

Tanner Dishman

Hailey Kroll

LIFESTYLES

HOOFBEAT

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SENIOR

Superlatives

Best Laugh

Tiffani Bidgood & Ronald Fiumara

Best Glow-up

J

Sarah Logan & Carson Decker

Most Athletic

Katryna Adamski & Maguire Anderson

Cutest Couple

Nicholas Fairbank & Olivea Voigt

Best Dressed

Isabella Richko & Andres Pisani

Best Smile

Salma Balile, Jake Constantine & Vanessa Legrow

Life

David P

Biggest Bromance

Ezra Brennan & Jonathan Fairbank

Best Hair

Jack Goldstein & Kassandra Hernandez

Drama King/Queen Hailey Walek & Louis Chianella

Most School Spirit Chadee Smith & Keaton Howard

Class Clown

Karsten Mohr & Davis Burnette

ife of the Party

avid Proper & Emily Medina

Brightest Future

Benjamin Horvath & Gitanjali Reddy

Bring Home to Mom Bella Holton & Stephen White

If you are interested in advertising or sponsoring The Hoofbeat, contact: smcnulty@pasco.k12.fl.us 10

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ADS

Varsity sports: year in review

The 2020-2021 season results from each varsity team, despite the quarantines and mask mandates caused by COVID-19 Photos by Laynie Mazur, Faith Giambarberee, Cate Miller, Gigante Productions, Ava Cornet, Sophia Henges, Cosette Ganci, Emma Diehl, Jelayna Vasquez, Pop’s of Da Rap’s

Girls' Cross Country

Boys' Cross Country

Girls' Golf

Boys' Golf

4th at Regionals, 16th at States

3rd at Conference, 6th at Districts

6 wins, 4th at Districts

3 wins - 5 losses, 6th at Districts

Boys' Swim and Dive

3rd at Regionals, 4th at States

Cheerleading

11 wins - 1 loss

Football

Girls' Swim and Dive

Volleyball

Girls' Basketball

Boys' Basketball 7 wins - 16 losses

8 wins - 1 tie - 7 losses

Boys' Soccer

Wrestling

Baseball

Softball

10 wins - 4 losses

19 wins - 1 tie - 7 losses

Girls' Weightlifting

18 wins - 5 losses

4 wins - 1 loss, 5th at Regionals

5 wins, 3rd at Regionals

Girls' Soccer

15 wins - 2 ties - 28 losses

16 wins - 5 losses

13 wins - 6 losses

2 wins - 2 losses, 9th at Regionals

3 wins - 1 loss, 1st at Conference

Boys' Weightlifting

Girls' Lacrosse

Boys' Lacrosse

Girls' Tennis

Boys' Tennis

Boys' Track and Field

Girls' Track and Field

8 wins - 3 losses

10 wins - 3 losses

6 wins - 10 losses

13 wins - 1 loss

3 wins - 1 loss, 1st at Conference, Co-Regional Runner-ups, 3 qualified for States

2 wins - 2 losses, 14th at Regionals, 5 competed in Regionals, 1 qualified for states

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Athletic scholarships take

commitment

Eleven student athletes sign with colleges, scattering them throughout the country to begin the next chapter of their lives Emma Diehl sports editor After their years of hard work and dedication in their respective sports, 11 J.W. Mitchell High School seniors have signed with different colleges. These athletes worked hard to secure their scholarships, and committed to their colleges because of their coaches, divisions, and academic departments.

While there are a plethora of places to find inspiration for these athletes, several listed their families as their greatest encouragement.

“My family has influenced me over the years by supporting me and my aspirations I have for the game. By taking me to

practices, games, and camps so I can be the best player I can be.

In addition, they instilled values that will bring success to me in the future,” Larry Legg (21), signed with Lake Erie, said.

Another source of inspiration that these student athletes listed would be their coaches. Destiny Sanchez, a soccer player who committed to Norwich University for both their soccer and Marine ROTC programs, stated that her coaches were a major influence on her student athletic career.

“My coaches pushed me until I couldn’t anymore, and they wouldn’t let me give up. They taught me skill, passion, and how to play with my heart. They showed me that I play for my team and my team plays for me,

and we fight together,” Sanchez said.

In heading off to college, students face plenty of challenges, even more so with the pandemic still in effect. Head football coach Andrew Schmitz (FAC) had plenty of advice for players to help them succeed in college, as well as advice for underclassmen working to earn scholarship offers.

“I always tell guys that first impressions are important.

They need to show up in shape and ready to prove themselves immediately. [For underclass I say] Grades, grades and grades.

The higher your GPA is, the more options you’ll have. Don’t put yourself in a hole as a freshman and sophomore,” Schmitz said.

When selecting which college to attend, athletes have to be selective just like everyone else.

They have to look into things like coaching staff, past season records, and division rankings.

Senior Evan Brennan, also a Lake Erie College commit, checked off all of his boxes when he selected his college.

“I chose Lake Erie because even though college football is where I want to start my career, the coaches reached out to me and I was able to trust them. [I can have] a whole new experience in Ohio. Football has taught me so much through leadership, brotherhood, and discipline. It teaches you how to work as a team, not allowing one person to be greater than any

other,” Brennan said.

Congratulations to these 11 student athletes who committed to colleges for sports teams: Jonathan Fairbank (‘21), Football, Valparaiso; Gary Shepard (‘21), Football, Centre College; Evan Brennan (‘21), Football, Lake Erie College; Maguire Anderson (‘21), Football, BYU; Elijah Hadley (‘21), Football, West Liberty University; Greg Washington (‘21), Football, Lane College; Garnell Wilds (‘21), Football, City College of San Francisco; Medhi Boutazart (‘21), Football, City College of San Francisco; Larry Legg (‘21), Soccer, Lake Erie College; Destiny Sanchez (‘21), Soccer, Norwich University; and Cole Castro (‘21), Track, Coastal Carolina University

NJROTC at Four years of excellence Nationals

Grace Young (‘21), lacrosse player and weightlifter, reflects on her time competing

Emma Diehl sports editor

Destiny Sanchez (‘21) won 1st place in the nation for individual push-ups.

It feels amazing to get first in the nation for push ups because it took me about three years to get since I wasn’t able to do it as a freshman.

It took a lot of hard work, like doing 300-500 push-ups a night and then doing a work out on top of that.

To know that it has paid off feels amazing because last year I got first in the state and second in nationals.

Sanchez said Benjamin Horvath (‘21) won 1st place in the nation for academics.

It’s hard knowing this is my last year.

When you commit to something like ROTC, it becomes the largest part of your life for however long you do it. For myself, especially during first semester, I was in ROTC four or five periods a day, spending 30+ hours working. So adjusting to not doing that anymore and not having that commitment is a significant change.

Horvath said

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SPORTS

Over the course of her high school career, Grace Young, a senior at J.W. Mitchell High School, competed on two varsity sports teams, and led her Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) unit to national competitions twice.

Through her leadership and experience, Young gained entry into the United States Military Academy, otherwise known as West Point Military Academy, where only about 1,250 students are accepted per year.

Young began playing lacrosse in elementary school as part of a recreational league, in an effort to try something new.

“The [recreational] lacrosse program started in our area when I was in the fifth grade and I was lucky enough to be a part of it. I grew up playing basketball and loved to try new sports, so when the opportunity presented itself, I quickly joined,” Young said.

Young learned to love lacrosse, and bettered her skills with the support of her coaches and her family members.

“My parents have

supported me in anything I set my mind to; they always give me the best opportunity to improve and play lacrosse. I’m really lucky to have such amazing, supportive parents. Over the years, my coaches have helped me to improve my skills, they encourage me to work on my weaknesses so I can improve as an athlete,” Young said.

For the past four years, Young was a member of the lacrosse and weightlifting teams. Coach Linsey Hoskins (FAC) describes Young as a hardworking student, and she is proud of her student’s accomplishments.

“Grace is a two year captain, leads the team in caused turnovers, and been the leader of the defense for the last 3 years. She excels not only on the field, but also in the gym during the weightlifting season. Grace is a 4.0 student, an officer in NJROTC, and takes several AP courses while maintaining two varsity sports and competing in weightlifting outside of school as well,” Hoskins said.

For the past two years, Young’s NJROTC unit has participated in national competitions, last year placing second, and

Grace Young (‘21) sprints up the lacrosse field with the ball in her stick. Young strategically runs, successfully to avoiding her opponents. It was this play and run that lead Young and her team to victory. Photo provided by Nikki Sartori.

this year placing 13th.

Balancing academics, NJROTC, and sports wasn’t always easy.

“Sometimes it was difficult to balance, since I am actively involved in sports, NJROTC, and academics. There were many early mornings for NJROTC combined with strenuous practices and late nights for schoolwork.

I got better at balancing everything with improving my time management skills,” Young said.

With her acceptance into West Point, Young is one of the 12 percent of applicants to get into the prestigious military

academy.

“I am excited to be able to grow as a person and set a good foundation for my future goals while being around people with similar work ethic and goals. I want to continue to improve my leadership and athletic abilities, with an end goal of graduating and getting accepted into a medical school,” Young said.

Overall, Young’s time in high school was filled with academic, athletic, and leadership achievements.

She will be attending West Point in the fall, and hopes to go to medical school after attending.

Going all out, all games, all season long Justin Fisher (21’) receives Gregg Schindler Male Student Athlete of the month award for his achievements in varsity soccer Alexa Grubbs staff reporter Throughout the boys soccer season, senior Justin Fisher (‘21) played an instrumental part of the team. As a result, he was awarded the Gregg Schindler Boys Student Athlete of the Month for April. Justin began playing soccer at four years old and started playing competitively at 10. Since then he has come a long way, now playing varsity soccer all four years as the goalkeeper and as a captain this year.

“I play goalkeeper because when I first started playing, I always loved stopping shots and

my coach suggested that it was a good position to use my height to my advantage,” said Fisher.

This year Fisher played 27 games as goalkeeper and a total of 102 games over his whole high school career, according to MaxPreps.com. He also has 231 saves this year with an average of 8.6 per match. Due to his work ethic, leadership, and performance, Fisher’s coach, Oscar Ubillus (FAC), nominated him for this award.

“From a nervous freshman to leading us to two consecutive state final fours, Justin has been a coach’s dream and, like his teammates, will succeed in whatever he chooses to do next

in life. As our record-holder with most games played, leader, and captain he has represented himself, his family, and Mitchell Soccer with pride and class throughout his high school career,” Ubillus said.

On top of being committed to soccer, Fisher also played for the varsity lacrosse team. Juggling both sports, he adjusted his schedule and accommodated for both so he could be a team player to both groups of teammates.

“I had communicated with the lacrosse coach that our [soccer] team had a good chance to make a deep run in the playoffs, and he completely understood,

Facesin theCrowd If we won the East Lake [basketball] game, we would be the number one seed in the district and it was nerve racking in the best way possible. Our defense shut down their point guard and we were able to clutch the win.

so I focused only on soccer and then went into the lacrosse season following our loss,” Fisher said.

With Fisher in net, the soccer team made it all the way to the state semi-finals, losing 3-2 to. Niceville on Mar. 3 and ending the season 19-7-1.

As Fisher’s time on the team comes to a close, he still plans to play club soccer at the University of Central At the Feb. 20 game against Wiregrass Ranch High Florida and focus on School, Justin Fisher (‘21) runs out of the goal to his academics while at punt the ball down field, before taking a 2-1 win college. against the opposing team. Photo by Jillian Misemer

Photos by Alexa Grubbs

What is your favorite sports memory from this year?

My favorite football memory was running the football 70 yards for a touchdown versus Wekiva High School.

It would probably be getting captain this year and helping our team get second in [swim] districts.

In my last track meet ever I finally PRed with 20.70 meters, which is my favorite memory since I was not able to PR for a few meets in a row.

My favorite track memory was districts or jamming out to music while we throw.

Khamari Smith (‘21)

Logan Izzo (‘21)

Megan Maxton (‘21)

Matthew Aldino (‘21)

Nina Rueda (‘21)

Topping the charts in the final season Christopher Castro (‘21) ran 100 meter hurdles in 14.99 seconds. “I feel and accomplished

after doing well in a meet, knowing my hard work has paid off. It was really exciting breaking the record for hurdles because it put me top in the state and gets my name on the board,” Castro said.

Rahshad McClanahan (‘21) broke the record boys javelin with 46.36m. “Breaking the record for javelin was the first record I broke for anything. Competing in track is an individual and team sport at the same time, you can always rely on teammates and yourself,” McClanahan said.

Justin Fisher (‘21) most games played for boys varsity soccer of 102 total “I

was super excited when I found out, and just being able to know that I made it and that all the years and hard work paid off made me extremely happy,” Fisher said.

Marcela Cardosi (‘21) bench-pressed 170 lbs at states. “My tennis coach told me I

was very strong and should try it. At first I said it was not for me but then she told me that for two years and my junior year I decided to have a try. The best part of competing is the nerves then excitement,” Cardosi said.

Elijah Hadley (‘21) broke the record for receptions in a season. “When you’re playing it fells good

to know that you’re playing the game well. I was happy when I found out I broke the record. I didn’t even know I did it, coach just told me and I remember feeling happy about it,” Hadley said.

Sainandan Challagundla (‘21) is undefeated in singles tennis. “I definitely didn’t expect to go

undefeated, I knew I was going to have a good year but I expected at least one loos which never came. Overall I feel very lucky to have played so well during the most important times,” Challagundla said.

Katryna Adamski (‘21) broke the girls javelin record. “It feels

awesome to break the record. It is super rewarding after working hard all season to improve,” Adamski said.

Ezra Brennan (‘21) breaks following records in football for Passing Yards in a Season, Passing Yards in a Career, Touchdown (TD) Passes in a Season, TD Passes in a Career Johnathan Fairbank (‘21) for Receptions in a Career, Receiving Yards in a Career, Touchdown Catches in a Career and a Season, and Tackles for Loss in a Career

SPORTS

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Victories from pianist to percussionist

Experienced percussionist, Grace Wilson (‘21), earns the Gregg Schindler’s inaugural Band Student award for her leadership

Marina Saviceva-Noti staff reporter Grace Wilson (‘21), the first Gregg Schindler State Farm Agency Band Student, picked up percussion her first year in middle school band. Fast forward to her senior year, and she is in a leadership position, pushing her peers to succeed and striving to do better in her own playing.

Wilson’s musical start began before she went into middle school, by playing piano on her own. It led to her interest in band and helped her make the decision to pick a percussion instrument.

“I chose percussion because it

has a lot of the same skills and applications as piano,” Wilson said.

Piano provided the valuable foundation for her future in band.

Wilson started participating in the seasonal marching shows starting with “Painted Black”, followed by “The Crown,” then “Wild and Free,” and finally this year’s smaller show, “Welcome to the Jungle.” But her true passion came later in the year during concert season: indoor percussion.

“My favorite part of band is probably our indoor percussion season, where the percussion section competes competitively across the state. Marimba is my favorite instrument, which is what

I have played during marching band and indoor percussion for the past two years,” Wilson said.

Band director, Ryan Harring (FAC), nominated Wilson for the Gregg Schindler award due to her dedication and devotion to the art of percussion and her outstanding role as a leader.

“Not only is she one of our best musicians in the percussion section, she is also a fantastic pianist, a strong leader, and a diligent student. She represents some of the best qualities of the J. W. Mitchell High School Band,” Harring said.

From March 27-28, the indoor percussion participants travelled to Daytona to play in a state event, competing against nine

At the Indoor Percussion performance on March 28, Grace Wilson performs on the marimba. Photo by Heather Goldstein

other ensembles. Ultimately, they took home gold, placing first in their division. This feat made the ensemble one of the best in the state.

“Winning was amazing.

It’s been fantastic to see our ensemble grow since my freshman year, and this was a fantastic way to finish out my senior year,” Wilson said.

Seniors’ last end-of-year celebrations

Teachers and faculty prepare celebrations for seniors’ end-of-year activities before their journey into college or the workforce

Davis Burnette staff reporter

As the senior year comes to a close, end of year activities have started to be planned. With the current social distance rules in place, some events had been planned in a different way, and some have not been able to be planned at all, such as Grad Bash. The events have been planned with consideration to the suggested social distancing and mask rules. The end of year band celebration has been planned to honor musicians’

work throughout the year: ”We are going to be hosting the event in the JWMHS Stadium, where we will be distributing awards, celebrating our successes during such a trying school year, announcing our marching band program for next year, watching performances, and having a generally good time,” Ryan Harring [FAC] said.

Some academic clubs, like the National Honor Society (NHS), have also planned an event in order to distribute cords and stoles to seniors. The NHS Cord

honor graduating seniors while and Stole ceremony is planned remaining safe. to be held The Fellowship of in-person Christian Athletes at the We will be (FCA) has planned gymnasium ...celebrating our the Mitchell on May 18 Baccalaureate successes during at 5 p.m.

A The seniors such a trying year... Service. baccalaureate service will be is a celebration that seated on honors a graduating the floor Ryan senior class. The level, and event is typically a guests will Christianity-based sit in socially interdenominational distanced pods in the stands. service, though it may also be of Denise Crabtree [FAC] believed a strictly Catholic nature. that it will be an effective way to

Harring (FAC)

“We will be having our Baccalaureate Service sponsored

by FCA on May 22 5 p.m. at Generations. This will be an outside event and all are welcome. Students will be participating in this event as well as a youth pastor from Generations speaking,” Regenia Dixon [FAC] said.

With the year coming to an end, faculty worked to prepare as many events as possible for seniors, so they can enjoy the end of their year as best they can before they graduate into a new chapter in their life.

Don’t stop yet , things will get “easier” Showcasing the seniors’ ability to help grow the colorguard program, to continue without them for many years to come

Emma Rogers business manager During her final performance on March 28, Brenna Peterson (‘21) watched her reflection in the mirrored prop, and tossed her rifle into the air. As it finished five rotations, the rifle came back down into her hands. Once the audience heard the sharp snap of her rifle’s strap hitting her palm, they erupted into applause for her achievement, and she was able to breathe normally again.

This year, five members of the colorguard will graduate. The colorguard matured from their debut as an ensemble in 2001 with the addition of the director, Mr. Tony Perez (FAC) in 2016. As time progressed, the colorguard

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ensemble established a name for themselves amongst the Florida colorguard circuit in only eight years.

“When I first joined the colorguard team my freshman year, it was the first year the colorguard had over 40 people. It was such an amazing experience, and I felt like even though many of us had different talents we all grew together as one,” Alaina Stobie (‘21) said.

The colorguard grew to a point where Perez was confident enough in their skills to enroll the 2020 varsity winter guard into World Championships in Dayton, Ohio for the first time. However, due to COVID-19, Winter Guard International (WGI) cancelled their competitions.

“Last year, when we were told about championships being cancelled, the team cried together at the last rehearsal we had. I really cared about the show and the fact that the season was over so abruptly made me upset along with the rest of the team. We really bonded as a team that day,” Megan Kron (‘21) said.

This batch of seniors experienced the full ups and downs of the program, so they took it upon themselves to continue a legacy of leaving behind a dedicated ensemble.

“My passion really pushed me to become the best performer I could be, and that’s how I continued to grow as the program grew with me. Showing

ENTERTAINMENT

The five seniors gather together for a picture after their friends and family performance, which was the last time they performed with one another in their home gym before they performed in Daytona, Florida on March 28.

Photo by Vicki Benitez

the new members as well as the current members how much I love the activity and that hard work pays off helps to motivate them,” Daelynn Benitez (‘21) said.

The pandemic may have impacted their 2020 season, but the colorguard did not let it affect them because they practiced as much as they could and abided by safety

measures ensuring they were able to have a successful 2021 season. Both JV and varsity teams placed second in their respective divisions at FFCC state Championships in Daytona on March 28.

“We’re based on perseverance, adapting to situations, and making the best out of everything,” Perez said.

Taking the major leap Advice, tips, and From politics to medical services, students discuss what they will major in Riley Curie backpage editor As students fill out college applications, they decide on what their major will be while they attend the school. Students may put undecided when completing the applications and can change it later down the line, but making that first decision on what to say can be a look into their future.

Such an important decision can be a daunting task for students.

Justice Sales (’21) knew what he wanted his future area of study to be but not quite his major when applying to colleges. University of Central Florida, where Sales will be attending, has more than 230 degree programs that he could have picked from.

“I picked my major, aerospace engineering, because I wanted to somehow be involved in space exploration. Aerospace engineering could allow me to get a career in building space crafts,” Sales said.

Other students have a direct

plan from major to career. One major can lead to many different pathways, like political science.

Michael Hodgson (’21) who will be majoring in this, plans on turning the passions he developed in high school into a future career.

“I’ve always had an interest in how governments operated, and I knew I wanted to do something to help people. I want to be a part of an actual change, so what better way to combine both helping people and my love for politics than to actually be the person making and influencing policy. I plan to major in political science while in ROTC, and after four years go into the United States Navy and spend the next twenty years in service. After my service I would use my degree to steer my political career,” Hodgson said.

Some student’s majors are influenced by what they participated in high school, like Vanessa Kriston (’21), who is in the Medical Academy.

“I chose to major in Emergency

Medical Services because I am in the EMR class at school and enjoyed going on ride-alongs, helping people that were hurt, and learning about health and wellness of the body,” Kriston said.

While some students’ decisions are made easy due to their experiences, others struggle.

Alana Walker (0’21) went through a lot of contemplation before coming to her major, Business Management.

“I have so many interests and there are so many options for majors I had a hard time picking.

I like some aspects of criminal justice so I was thinking about that but I am also interested in business. I ultimately decided on business to hopefully be a CEO one day and also because it is so versatile and there are a lot of things you can do with it,” Walker said.

While choosing a major may be difficult, looking back on past experiences and memories can help to finalize the decision for the future.

The future looks huge Looking ahead, students speak on their goals and plans post high school

Hayley Fliss centerspread editor With graduation approaching, seniors start to plan for the future of their success. Between traveling for the summer to moving in for the first semester of college, seniors have a lot to conquer, adjust to, and celebrate. Going early to get ahead, Kaylianna Wellington (‘21) plans to start classes at University of Central Florida (UCF) over the summer so she can earn her Associate of Arts (AA) degree for the upcoming fall semester, but she does not plan for this to limit her free time. “[Since] everything is still online, I am [taking my classes] from home. Typically I travel a lot during summer and I usually go to Nashville to visit family and friends at UT Knox. I also go on smaller trips with friends to places like St. Augustine or Cocoa Beach,” Wellington said.

Since college is a new environment, seniors like Tiffany Cain (‘21), who moves into her dorm Aug. 15, find the upcoming experience to have its ups and downs. At UF, she wishes to extend her education in order to pursue her career in

the medical field.

“I am going to college to major in Health Science. I feel confident and excited to pursue this career field as I have always had an interest in the medical field. I will definitely have to adjust to living alone and supporting myself; however, I am more excited than nervous,” Cain said.

For her first semester of college, Salma Balile (‘21) plans to rush into a sorority while

I know I’ll stay true to myself while at the same time experiencing new things and putting myself out there to grow overall as a person.

Kaylianna

Wellington (‘21) focusing on her schoolwork and making time for herself. Also attending UF later this year, she plans to major in Biology.

“My ultimate goal after graduation is to just stay on track during college and be grateful

for what my future has to offer.

During the summer, I will most likely be preparing for college and working out a lot as well as hanging out with friends,” Balile said.

Friends in college also help to support students through their transition from high school to college. Wellington feels that it is important to have a group of friends to rely on in addition to preserving her individuality.

“I have a lot of friends already going to UCF and others that will be going this year too, so I know I’ll always at least have a good group of people I can [be around]. I know I’ll stay true to myself while at the same time experiencing new things and putting myself out there to grow overall as a person. I feel that in college, there is a balance between staying true to you, but at the same time growing up and realizing the things you want for yourself in life,” Wellington said.

Expectations and plans make for an easier transition in his new environment at a college or university. Whether the plan is education-focused or stress-free, having a plan to begin with will make students like Wellington excel in their future.

helpful tricks

Currently attending the University of Central Florida, Florida State University, and University of Florida, past Mitchell graduates gave their best advice to ease the minds of incoming freshmen.

What is a good trick in order to easily adjust into college life?

“Make sure to prioritize time management. Getting a planner helps with knowing what you have to accomplish throughout the week which ensures that you are productive,”

Sebastian

Gruwell (‘20)

Majoring in Finance

What is your biggest regret when looking back on your college experience?

“Join as much as you can! My biggest regret is not joining a lot of clubs or sports. They are so much fun and no one judges you for anything. Try everything!”

Kaitlyn

Killeen (‘19)

Majoring in

Commercial Entrepreneurship

What is your best advice for incoming college students?

“Nothing is set in stone when you walk into college or when you’re there. College is the time to explore your interests at a more applicable level and there’s a good chance you’ll change your major, and that’s completely ok,”

John

Henges (‘19)

Majoring in Computer Engineering

OPINIONS

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Where to make home for the next four As the first semester of college quickly approaches, seniors decide whether living on or off campus is the better option

Jelayna Vasquez sports editor Upon acceptance, deciding whether to live on or off campus is an important decision for incoming college freshmen.

However, living on campus provides more opportunities and greater benefits than living off campus which is why many students prefer to live on campus this upcoming fall semester.

According to statistics from Robert Kelchen, in the 2015-2016 school year, about 38% of first year students who attended a four year public university lived on campus rather than living off campus or living with parents.

“I love University of Florida’s campus and I wanted to be closer to my classes for convenience plus to be around other students in a communal environment so I chose to live on campus. I’m most excited about meeting new people that have similar interests as me,” Nicole Granda (‘21) said.

Living on campus makes the process of making new friends easier, since social events will be more accessible to those who live in dorms. Tanner Dishman (‘21), plans to attend University of Tampa after graduation and was swayed by this factor when making her decision.

“My brother and sister in law went to University of Tampa and helped me choose my dorms. They told me living on campus helps connect you to others and puts me out there to explore a new dynamic of life and have more of a college experience,” Dishman said.

When examining the effect living on campus has on academics, those who live on campus their first year have gotten better grades than those who don’t as well as have a higher graduation

rate, according to a study done by the University of Northern Iowa. Sophia Henges (‘21) thinks that living on campus next year would be best for her college experience.

“I chose to live on campus because it gives me a chance to become more familiar with the campus and I’m able to meet more people around campus than staying in an outside apartment,” Henges said.

On campus housing tends to be cheaper, since the dorm price includes utilities such as electricity, heating/air conditioning and water, as well as other accommodations such as internet access.

Dorms also come furnished, so no need for the added expense of buying furniture.

Most dorms have designated common areas for the students to relax or socialize with other students.

“I chose to live on campus because I wanted to experience dorm life. I wanted to stay up late studying with friends in the commons and meet lots of new people. I wanted to make new friends and memories so I chose to live on campus,” Dora Rodriguez (‘21) said.

College freshmen already have a packed schedule, adding a longer commute to it would not be ideal; which is why living on campus is a better option. It saves time when going to classes and any other activities that may be happening on campus.

Living on campus allows students to become more time efficient, provides better opportunities for socialization and is proven to benefit grades and graduation rate. When looking for places to live next year for college, on campus housing is the best option. On campus living can mean a number of different things including dorm rooms, sororities, and fraternities, giving multiple opportunities for living.

Avery Weber staff reporter As Sophia Morgan (‘21) commits to attending Florida State University (FSU), she considers whether to live on or off campus when she begins her college journey with the summer semester in June. There are positives and negatives to both options, but living off campus provides students with a greater sense of independence and allows for more freedom.

When it comes to off campus living, more privacy, living space, and amenities allow students to have more space to relax after a challenging day of classes.

With a typical dorm, one must share space with a roommate, and in some cases, share a communal bathroom with the entire hall floor. Additionally, statistics show that the majority of students prefer to live off campus. As seen in the graph below, according to US News, 76 percent of students attending the University of Florida (UF) live off-campus. Most other schools in the state of Florida share a similar percentage.

“I feel like you just get more with an apartment. You get your own room, bathroom, full sized closet, a kitchen and amenities like a pool and clubhouse. It is much more space for yourself so you are not around someone at all hours, you get some private time,” Morgan said.

In addition, living off campus provides for more opportunities outside of school.

By living in an apartment, students still have access to the numerous college events and activities while also having more freedom. This allows students to not feel trapped on campus and enables them with a greater ability to explore the surrounding area. Samantha Madeira (‘21)

who will be attending either the University of Central Florida (UCF) or Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) describes why she chose to live off-campus.

“I decided to live off campus because I found a couple friends to get an apartment with [close to campus]. You can still be a part of the campus activities, but you have your own freedom of being on your own,” Madeira said.

Often, the long term cost of an apartment is less than a dorm, especially if the rent ends up being split between roommates. Steven Alvarez (‘21) will be attending the University of South Florida (USF) and expresses his opinion on offcampus living.

“I decided to live off campus because the cost of attendance would be a lot less expensive. I am able to keep spending time with my mom and do things around the Trinity community,” Alvarez said.

Living in an off campus apartment also provides health benefits. This proves especially true because the threat of COVID-19 still persists throughout the nation and world. Living on campus with a whole floor of people close by can be particularly dangerous. Apartment housing makes it easy to isolate yourself if needed.

“I am a person who needs their own space, so a dorm was not for me. I feel like with COVID-19, I’m in my own apartment and can quarantine there if needed rather than being sent to a COVID-19 dorm,” Morgan said.

Overall, living off campus provides students with more opportunities outside the activities a college campus offers.

With apartments, more living space is available along with a greater sense of freedom. Finally, it allows students to develop a strong sense of independence as they are truly living their own.

Where Students Live (%) Data from US News

0

20

40 Off Campus

60 On Campus

80

100