800 News: The Wildcat Roar - March 2021

MARCH 2021

Westminster Christian Academy

The Truth About The Body Positivity Movement 1 Pg. 10

800 NEWS MANAGING EDITOR IN CHIEF MAGGIE LINDSTROM, JUNIOR

CONTENT EDITOR EMMA HARRIS, JUNIOR

CO-EDITOR OF 800SPORTING MARTYBRINER, SENIOR

CO-EDITOR OF 800SPORTING BROOKE HIGHMARK, JUNIOR

STAFF WRITER

STAFF WRITER

STAFF WRITER

STAFF WRITER

COLIN RING, SENIOR

EMMA SMITH, SENIOR

2 STAFF

NOLAN JONES, JUNIOR

CJ FRANCOIS, FRESHMAN

ST

STUDENTS SERVING STUDENTS

TAFF

S G S

STAFF WRITER

STAFF WRITER

STAFF WRITER

STAFF WRITER

STAFF WRITER

STAFF WRITER

MOOREA ATKINS, SENIOR

KAITLYN BUTLER, JUNIOR

SAM VESTAL, JUNIOR

STAFF WRITER BEN KNISLEY , SOPHOMORE

HOPE LINAM, JUNIOR

ELLIE JOHNSON, JUNIOR

ANAGI PIERIS, SOPHOMORE

STAFF WRITER GUS DUDA, JUNIOR

STAFF WRITER

STAFF WRITER

EVAN KOHN, JUNIOR

ELLIE JONES, JUNIOR

STAFF WRITER

ANDREW CAHILL, FRESHMAN

STAFF WRITER LAUREN BORCHELT, JUNIOR

STAFF 3

CONTENTS

FEATURE

“THIS DAY... IN AMERICAN HISTORY” PG. 8

WHAT LAZINESS IS AND HOW TO DEAL WITH IT PG. 12

KARTPLEX AT WORLD WIDE TECHNOLOGY RACEWAY PG. 13

THE FUTURE OF SELF-DRIVING CARS PG. 14

MRS. ROLFING PG. 18

4 CONTENTS

OPINION

NEWS

SPORTS

WHY YOU SHOULD LISTEN TO NICEKLBACK

DAYBREAK: A STUDENT LED MINISTRY

GIRLS LAX PREVIEW

KURT COBAIN AND THE TRAGIC ARTIST

GUYS AND DOLLS RECAP

PG. 24

PG. 6

PG. 9

THE TRUTH ABOUT THE BODY POSITIVITY MOVEMENT PG. 10

HOW CARTOONS ARE CHANGED IN TODAY’S WORLD

PG. 7

PG. 17

POPCORN AT PAWPRINT PG. 18

PG. 23

BOYS LAX PREVIEW TRACK PRE-VIEW PG. 25

BOYS TENNIS PG. 26

BASEBALL PRE-VIEW PG. 27

BOYS GOLF PG. 28

BOYS VOLLEYBALL PG. 29

PG. 16

GIRLS SOCCER

PG. 21

JACK WOOLRIDGE

THE ‘CHRISTIAN’ TROPE

PG. 30 PG. 31

CONTENTS

STAFF ED

STAFF ED

The New LeavesWith the turn of the season and the new leaves forming on the trees, we all find ourselves in a panic rush. Spirit week is just around the corner and tests are beginning to pick back up again and it is the fourth quarter. This is the end, the end of the school year. The rush and excitement of summer is more important than the final lost points in the grade book for some. But here is my advice to all students: finish this school year strong. I know you have been hearing this forever (I mean every teacher in every school has said this phrase “finish the school year strong”). But there is so much wisdom in this oversaid statement. There is so much joy and pride that can be taken in finishing your school year stronger than ever before. Think about how if you finish this year strong, then you are setting yourself to be in a much better place than you were in before. So don’t stress out, just take a deep breath and start to plan how you are going to do it. So today I leave you with

this:

“I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” -Philippians 3:14

Sincerely, Maggie Lindstrom, Managing Editor In Chief and the rest of 800 news!

STAFF EDITORIAL 5

WHY YOU SHOULD GIVE NICKELBACK A CHANCE MOOREA ATKINS Staff Writer

Nickelback: the most hated band in the world. They’re a multi platinum band having sold over 50 million albums, and yet the wrath that people have towards Nickelback is unmeasurable.

It’s for this reason that I think listening to music we don’t like or doing things we don’t like is important to being a well rounded person. Well for one, you’ve experienced it instead of making up your mind without giving it a try. But you’ve also deepened your perception of beauty. Nickelback is so cringey at times that of all things it can help you understand what beauty means to you.

There are many reasons to dislike Nickelback. Too many to count actually.

My definition of beauty in music is probably different to yours. Especially I should know, I once made an entire presentation about why people hate when it comes to music because I listen to classic rock from the 70’s, Nickelback. Regardless of how you may feel about them, I think every80’s, and 90’s, but I’ll name a few. I still get chills when I listen to some body should give them a chance. of Edward Van Halen’s guitar solos on Van Halen albums. I’ve cried listening to Steve Perry sing power ballads in Journey songs. I can’t Like most things in life, music tastes and preferences are subjective. forget mentioning the otherworldly experience it is listening to Eddie There is no foolproof way to determine what types of music is objectively Vedder sing on any Pearl Jam album. I’d be a fool not to shout out John the best. There are great bands and music that everybody loves (like the Bonaham’s drumming on Led Zeppelin albums, or the incredible songs Beatles or Queen) and there are also great musicians that don’t get half Neil Peart wrote for Rush, or the emotion Pink Floyd conveys through as much exposure as they deserve (the 80’s new wave band The Outfield). through their songs. I could go on, but I’ll spare you the time.

What I may define as great music may be the opposite of your definition.

For the purpose of making my point however, we’re going to assume that As you can probably tell, music touches me in a deep and profound way. the majority can’t stand Nickelback.

I’ve learned to appreciate all the aforementioned things even more - all because of Nickelback. Finding out what I don’t like has helped me love I believe discovering what we don’t like is key to finding what we do the things I do even more. It’s a weird thing isn’t it, that the things we like. Knowing what doesn’t work helps us appreciate what does work. don’t like help us define what we do. So for that I say, give Nickelback a Nickelback, for example, is something that pretty much everybody hates. chance. You don’t have to like it, and chances are you will probably still But when a really great song comes after a bad Nickelback song on one of hate them. But at least you have a newfound respect for the things you my playlists, I appreciate it even more than I already do. love.

Finding out what we don’t like helps us discover what we do. Image by: Moorea Atkins

6 OPINION

DAYBREAK: A STUDENT-LED MINISTRY

YOU MAY HAVE SEEN THE LOGO ON INSTAGRAM, ON A BUSINESS CARD, OR ON HOODIES: DAYBREAK, ROMANS 13:12. MAYBE YOUR FRIENDS ARE TALKING ABOUT GOING. BUT WHAT EXACTLY IS IT?

KAITLYN BUTLER Staff Writer Daybreak is a student-led ministry designed to bring rest to high-schoolers and create a Christ-centered community in the STL area.

Juniors Emma Yost, Madison Doehring, and Jackson Lawrence organized this ministry inspired by friends in Fayetteville and Jonesboro, AK, gathering a team of eleven total leaders who meet after school to plan, prepare, and practice. This past Monday, they gathered with a total of 78 students at The Journey West County, singing worship music, chatting and getting to know one another, and walking through verses in Romans that highlight the simple Gospel.

Their mission centers around Romans 13:12, which says, “The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.” Addressing the imperishable hope in Christ Jesus, this verse calls us to walk daily in that hope--in the light of the Gospel. We hope that Daybreak fosters an environment in which students can grow in this truth with other students: teenagers who are all navigating their way through high school.

Bring a mask, bring a Bible, bring a friend, and join us at The Journey at 7:00 p.m. on March 22nd. As junior Emma Yost assures, “Daybreak isn’t just another youth group. It’s where students will feel comfortable with their peers in fellowship, in worship, and in hearing what the Lord Logo by: Emma Yost has been doing in their lives.”

Photos by: Grace Fentress

NEWS 7

“THIS DAY...IN AMERICAN HISTORY”

TAKE AN INSIDE LOOK AT WESTMINSTER’S BELOVED HISTORY TEACHER, DR. GALL. ELLIE JONES Staff Writer

that he is able to carry on the traditions and morals of the two most important men in his life, especially the storytelling Meet Dr. Jeff Gall, graduate of Cornell College of Iowa. Born in aspect.

1954, he is the middle of two other brothers, Joe and Jim. Him and his brothers were always fascinated with sports, like most In his 42 total years of teaching students, 23 have been on boys, from a young age. They were especially enamored with college campuses, and 19 in high schools. With his fifth year at Westminster, one of the joys is he gets to work alongside baseball and football. Specifically the Mizzou Tigers and the his son, head of academic development, Micah Gall. Ironically Kansas City Chiefs. enough, Dr. Gall’s son is his boss, along with carpooling to Dr. Gall’s father owned and operated a bowling alley in Inde- school everyday. “I love telling people that I am 66 years old pendence, Missouri. Him and his two brothers all worked there and I still drive my kid to school!” said Gall. with their dad. “I was raised in the gutter,” said Gall. He was very close with his grandpa Gall, who he would describe as a Dr. Gall would definitely say that teaching is one of his pasdevout Christian who endured uncomplicated life on the farm sions, and grows to love it more and more everyday. It was they owned. Dr. Gall loved to go there to hunt and fish, along no question that he was meant to be a history teacher. “My with spending quality time with his grandfather. He was also a love of history and my love of working with young people, the perfect combination. I also believed it provided a great opporWorld War I veteran who had amazing stories. tunity to serve others and model my Christian faith,” said Gall.

“My dad and grandfather loved reading, talking, and experienc- He concludes that teaching keeps the soul young, constantly ing history. I was blessed to have been taken to lots of histor- being around young people. Laughter combined with learning ical sites as a kid, and I was fascinated,” said Gall. He loves is the perfect mix.

Westminster history teacher, Dr. Gall. Photo by: Ellie Jones

8 FEATURE

KURT COBAIN AND THE TRAGIC ARTIST MOOREA ATKINS Staff Writer

As a culture we have an obsession with tragedies; perpetuated by the works of Shakespeare and mainstream media our definition of any art always includes a death or misfortune of some sort. Pain and suffering seem almost essential to any piece of art. But tragedies should not define art.

One of the most famous tragedies of the last century is Kurt Cobain. He was a musician, writer, and artist who is best known for being the singer and songwriter for the grunge band Nirvana. In 1991, the band found success with their album Nevermind, which sold 30 million copies and is regarded as one of the best selling albums of all time. With songs like “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” “Come As You Are,” and “Lithium,” the world idolized Kurt’s gravelly voice, his songwriting, and a sound to music the world hadn’t heard before. His music didn’t just inspire people, it changed them.

best type of art.

Most of Kurt’s songs were written when he was not in a depressed state.

Most people can’t write music when they’re sad - all you feel like doing is nothing. Art reflects who we are, and letting tragedies consume us destroys the creative spirit, not fuels it. Kurt wrote most of his songs about his tragedies, not during them. But his suffering didn’t write his music, he did.

Think about it like this: our tragedies in art are like salt in a dish. You wouldn’t eat a plate of salt, and the salt didn’t magically make a plate of yummy food. A cook adds salt to recipes to give it a little something extra, but it isn’t necessary. In fact, most food without salt tastes just fine as is.

I believe Kurt would have made great music without his personal tragedies and mental health struggles. What made him stand out is that he had something powerful to say. He had a voice, opinions, and thoughts he wanted to share. That’s really the key to being a good artist of any The grunge era of the early 90’s died with Kurt Cobain in 1994. His death kind, not our suffering. Our tragedies can be a part of what we say, but was sudden and shook the world. His life is often romanticized as a tragic, we don’t need them to start a conversation. troubled man who’s suffering and pain caused him to make great music.

But nobody’s tragedies should define their art or their life.

We shouldn’t seek to define ourselves or the things we make creatively

by our suffering and tragedies - nor do I think we should idolize people Many people are unaware that Kurt didn’t want to be remembered as a because of their tragedies. The truth is that all of us are just ordinary moody depressed soul. He was a pretty happy guy most of the time, who people with our own tragedies. Without the bad times we wouldn’t have liked to make jokes and goof around. He made many meaningful relagood times, and without the good times we wouldn’t have art. tionships while he was alive with his bandmates and close friends, who miss him dearly to this day. He was also an activist, speaking out against racism, misogyny, sexism, and supporting many social justice causes. But so many people choose not to remember these great things about him we only remember his tragic story.

It’s for this reason that I question the idea of a ‘tragic artist.’ Many people just assume that because Kurt Cobain suffered with addictions and depression it made him a good musician. The same can be said of countless other musicians, dancers, actors, and artists. However, pain is not necessary for art.

I suppose that making art of any kind while in the midst of pain is essential for artists to work through their emotions. The art made during those times, however, is most often so incredibly personal that it would be difficult to share. All the poems, stories, drawings, and songs that are created during low periods of life are most often not meant to be shared. Art made Kurt Cobain is one of the most famous singers of the 90’s, and how we let tragedies define his work and our own. during a reflective, introspective state however, that, in my opinion, is the Illustration by: Moorea Atkins

OPINION 9

THE TRUTH ABOUT THE BODY POSITIVITY MOVEMENT ELLIE JOHNSON Staff Writer

“Love your body because you only have one.”

“Fat is not a bad word.”

“You are beautiful.”

These phrases can be found all over social media, vocalizing the body positivity movement. At first glance, this movement is empowering and full of love and acceptance.

It combats the hatred of certain weights, skin colors, heights, complexions, and more. People have been dissatisfied with their bodies far too long, right? However, there are possible concerns that this movement presents. Does the good heart behind these positive ideas overpower the negative effects that should be cautioned against?

According to Carolyn Coker Ross of Psych Central, 80 percent of women are unhappy with their appearance.

While the body positivity movement has its roots in the fat acceptance movement, it has begun to morph into the acceptance of all body types, urging people everywhere to love their bodies as they are. The movement is defined as “the assertion that all people deserve to have a positive body image, regardless of how society and popular culture view ideal shape, size, and appearance” by Kendra Cherry from Very Well Mind. Many people are in agreement that this motivation is upstanding and reaps many good outcomes, but there are a few dangerous products as well.

the National Institutes of Health, obesity and overweight combine to be the second leading cause of preventable death in the United States with approximately 300,000 deaths each year.

Dangerous obesity can be prevented by talking to a health professional, eating a healthy diet, and exercise- yet the body positivity movement might be deterring people from taking these steps to make themselves healthier.

They are told that their bodies are beautiful and perfect just the way they are, which in turn tells them that they do not need to change it.

To go one step further, weight loss for any reason, including trying to become healthier, has been discouraged in the media and receives harsh criticism when displayed due to the body positivity movement. For example, Kelly deVos, author and writer for the New York Times, published a book focusing on a character before and after losing weight, but many claimed that it was wrong to portray someone losing weight. This is because they see weight loss as “never legitimate, because it is an expresOne of these dangers pertains to the health of many indi- sion of the psychological toll of fat shaming. So any public viduals who are a part of the movement. According to discussion of personal health or body size constitutes fat

10 OPINION

shaming,” as deVos said in her article for the New York Times.

Another negative aspect of the movement are the unspoken rules of who can voice the movement and who cannot. While overweight and obese individuals are praised for their courage to fight beauty norms, conventionally beautiful individuals receive hate when speaking against the same things. For example, Dr Nikki Stamp explains in an article for the ‘Sydney Morning Herald,’ “Actor and activist Jameela Jamil is an outspoken critic of beauty norms and diets, yet she has received much criticism for daring to have such an opinion because she’s deemed slim, beautiful and extremely privileged.” It seems that if you are conventionally attractive you are not allowed an opinion, but if you do not speak up you are empowering

the patriarchy and are against the movement. Conventionally attractive individuals are not allowed to feel insecure about themselves.

Overall, the body positivity movement changes many lives for the better, helping them reject their insecurities and love themselves, but it also causes health concerns, lack of inclusivity, and hypocrisy, things that should be worked on. No movement is perfect and the body positivity movement has a long way to go, but it’s foundation sits on positive and loving ideas, making it something worth fostering and helping fix it’s flaws.

What is the body positivity movement? Is it really positive or is it harmful? Illusrated by: Ellie Johnson

OPINION 11

LAZINESS

WHAT LAZINESS IS AND HOW TO DEAL WITH IT

EMMA SMITH Staff Writer

so trivial as helping you. Laziness has a psychological element that people don’t think about. People start to do stuff half-heartedly, and when they inevitably don’t relieve gratitude for their shoddy work, they feel dejected. They begin to think that if their work is not appreciated, then why do it? The little effort they put into getting things done begins to feel overwhelming and not worth it. They get stuck in an endless cycle of laziness.

Laziness is something that almost all human beings have struggled with at some point. It is easy to get trapped in laziness and not be able to find your way out. So what is laziness, what causes it, and how do So what can we do to keep ourselves from getting trapped and we get rid of it? laziness? Laziness can often destroy good habits. So it’s important to start new ones. However, if you are feeling overwhelmed it can be Daniel Lieberman, an expert in human evolutionary biology, claims less stressful to take small steps towards a goal you want or need that laziness is genetically embedded in us. Our ancestors used to to achieve. It helps to take things one step at a time. Smaller steps conserve energy as a survival technique and could use the extra make a task seem easier to achieve, and it allows you to see little energy to escape predators. That instinct to conserve energy is still accomplishments along the way to motivate you. It is also important in us, but ambition and perspective can help override this instinct, but to not expect perfection. Perfection is too high of a goal for you to its prevalence is still in us. Laziness can often result from the absence achieve, and when you work to perfection you will always fail. It’s of self efficacy and the belief that if you put your mind to something, important not to set yourself up for failure when you are trying to you will be successful. People will lose the ambition to do something break lazy habits, because failure can take away your ambition to if they have no faith in a good result. The gratification we receive from keep trying. Another tip to help break laziness is to be willing to ask accomplishing a task is important for boosting ambition. Long and for help. If you find yourself stuck or confused while doing a task get onerous tasks that don’t have an end result in sight don’t give us that help. If you try to figure it out on our own you may just hit a wall and gratification. We end up feeling like the task is not worth the effort and give up. You should also use positive self talk rather than negative turn to easier tasks or simple idleness. self talk. Congratulate yourself when you complete steps, and reward yourself for completing goals to the best of your ability. Maybe listen Sometimes people are lazy because they haven’t found something they to music while you’re cleaning, or take timed breaks from your want to do. It’s important to invest time and effort into something that homework- however, if you do take timed breaks, it’s important not you like so that you have something to look forward to when you’re to do something on a screen, as that can make you more lazy. Go for a done doing all things you don’t like. It helps you to put up with working walk or a run, make yourself a cup of tea, or eat a snack; any of these on the tasks you find irritating or irksome. If you spend all your time things can help boost your energy rather than deplete it. working on tasks you don’t find enjoyable you will start to feel like your work is meaningless, and lose your ambition to do it. We become Though laziness is hard to avoid, it can be stopped, but only if you’re lazy. willing to take the steps to stop it.

Unfortunately, the result of laziness is often the same as the cause of laziness. Laziness often leads to low self-esteem, lack of gratification, and a sense of having no purpose.. You know how mad you get when something really needs to get done and you do all you can to complete it, but someone else slacks off and ruins the whole thing?

Then you have to do extra work because someone else is too selfish to think about how their lack of effort is affecting everyone else? It makes sense to be upset when someone lets you down, but have you ever considered how they feel? Most of the time people don’t slack off for the sole purpose of making you miserable. They don’t slack off because they just don’t think they can be bothered with something laziness is not an option anymore. ilustration by: Emma Smith

12 FEATURE

KARTPLEX AT WORLD WIDE TECHNOLOGY RACEWAY HOW YOU CAN TAKE THE WHEEL OF A 60 MPH GOKART CJ FRANCOIS Staff Writer

karts are also speed limited if there is a crash. The speed is controlled by a remote control and receivers that limit the karts speed.

World Wide Technology Raceway is, to many, a racetrack that holds Each session is 10 laps long. If a driver is driving recklessly, they major car races and nothing else. However, there is another form will receive a warning, via flag. If they do not heed the warning, of racing that not many people know about with go kart racing. This they will be disqualified and must return to the pits. Your times kind of racing is very fun and action packed. for each lap are able to be printed out, so you can see who got the fastest time.

Go kart racing is a very serious kind of racing at World Wide Technology Raceway.

The Kartplex is especially unique because you can actually buy race ready karts directly from the Kartplex. The karts for sale are The name of the go kart track is called the Kartplex. This is the only called ignite karts, which are faster and lighter racing karts than go kart track inside an oval racetrack in the midwest. They are some the rentals. Anyone can buy these and can also rent out a garage. of the fastest go karts that can be rented, clocking in at almost 60 These garages are available for rent to anyone who has their own miles per hour. go kart. The garages provide plenty of room to work on your kart, plus it also has a bathroom and refrigerator in it.

The track is 0.5 miles long and has many twists, turns, and a long straight. This one of the longest tracks in the midwest. Driving a The World Wide Technology Raceway Kartplex is definitely an go kart is actually not that difficult. Unlike a car, you use two feet extremely fun thing to do. The sensation of racing without anything to go and stop. Your left foot presses the brake and your right foot holding you back is truly amazing. You get to experience what a presses the accelerator. When cornering leaning into the turns will race car driver would experience without paying for an expensive help you turn smoother. There are no gears or reverse on a go kart. car. Overall, it is an experience that cannot be missed.

This makes them simple and easy to drive.

Renting the go karts is very easy. You either can reserve a kart in a public session if you are by yourself or have a private session if you are with a big group of people. You have to sign in and have a safety briefing before you drive the go karts. You must wear a head sock and a helmet when driving the go karts. Open toed shoes are not allowed. This is a safety risk, as your feet could get badly hurt if you are in a crash. Wearing closed toed shoes will help prevent this.

Many people who have tried go kart racing have loved it. They describe it as a thrilling experience. Anyone over the age of 12 can take the wheel of a go kart and race other opponents. If necessary, a booster seat can be used for short racers. The pedals and seats can be adjusted to fit your comfort. The first few laps that the go karts are driven, they are limited to around 25 miles per hour. As soon as everyone gets a feel for the karts, the full speed is unlocked. These

The World Wide Technology Raceway Kartplex. photo by: CJ Francois

FEATURE 13

THE FUTURE OF SELF-DRIVING CARS COMING SOON TO A ROAD NEAR YOU that turn circles unexpectedly at an intersection. School crosswalks ANAGI PIERIS

Staff Writer Over the past few decades, the manufacture of vehicles with at least some degree of automation has catapulted forward in leaps and bounds.

Companies behind the growing industry have promoted their innovative products with the claim that autonomous cars render roadways safer than if humans drivers were behind the wheel, although many like the Victoria Transport Policy Institute attest to the fact that the dynamic everyday road conditions of a bustling city center pose more complicated evasive maneuvers than flying an airplane.

or bus stops are particularly hazardous for computers to navigate given that children are prone to making sudden movements inexplicably.

Up till 2018, research shared at the Conference on Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition revealed that even the most sophisticated cameras could not avoid being hoodwinked by graffiti-like marks on stop signs 85% of the time. Clearly, not only will autonomous technology have to adapt to rapidly evolving situations, but they must also have the capacity to detect and classify peripheral road obstacles around the clock.

On the one hand, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that 28,190 car crashes occur during any given year in the United States. Likewise, since car-related casualties are now among the top ten causes of death worldwide, many in the automotive industry will emphasize the fact that the majority of car crashes are can be traced to human error. Indeed, mistakes do happen on the occasions that people behind the wheel fall asleep, text, or are intoxicated. Since a machine cannot be influenced accordingly, it stands to reason that artificial intelligence will be safer for everyone involved.

At the very soonest, autonomous vehicles are projected to reach near peak performance by 2025. In fact, there are several reasons to be optimistic about the new technology and its ongoing impact on society. Most teenagers will welcome self-driving cars for the ability to text and drive simultaneously. Risky scenarios such as drunk drivers and drugged occupants will further be obviated. With the opportunity for hands-off transportation, individuals will be free to eat, work, or possibly nap as their car takes the forefront in planning and approaching a destination.

However, autonomous technology comes with its own challenges, too.

Bryan Salesky, CEO of a self-driving startup called Argo AI, said “With radar and high resolution cameras and all the computing power we have, we can detect and identify the objects in a street. The hard part is identifying what they do next.” Most market analysts raise concern over the fact that inclement weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow, and hail can dramatically alter the topography of a landscape, making earlier accessed satellite photos obsolete within hours.

Some market predictions include more efficient roadways, decreased human carbon emissions, and increased productivity. Five years into the future, GoldmanSachs projects an increased global income per capita and rising aged proportion of the population, further generating consumers and manufacturers in the autonomous vehicle market. Potential to safely transport groups of people through ridesharing while simultaneously marketing to a responsive demographic heralds many incentives for more entrepreneurs and corporations to propel this new industry.

Still, in light of the promising self-driving car industry, both several Silicon Valley corporations and many start-up companies such as Waymox, Nissan, Tesla, General Motors, Volvo, and Uber have already claimed a share of such vehicle production. “We continue to believe it’s a matter if when, no if, Apple enters the [electric vehicle market],” writes Wedbush Securities analyst Dan Ives. In 2019 the United States hosted a sum total of half a dozen autonomous vehicle manufacturers, but by 2020 the number of companies had practically quadrupled to 250, according to greyb.

The New York Times has attributed some instances of self-driving cars’ near mishaps to the proliferation of unpredictable human behaviors, such as bicyclists going down the wrong side of the street or street sweepers

14 IN-DEPTH

Remotely, there is even the possibility of vehicle technology being hijacked by outsiders. In 2018 The American Automobile Association found that 71% of Americans were still wary about self-driving vehicles in general. Ultimately, while self-driving cars may become a reality sooner than anyone anticipates, the fact remains that as of 2021, the developments are still in their early stages and it will take further time, effort, and money to fine-tune the process to the level of competency and safety consumers expect.

The reality of self-driving cars is not too far off into the future after all, according to entrepreneur Nikola Tesla. Illustrated by Anagi Pieris

IN-DEPTH 15

HOW CARTOONS ARE CHANGEDandINsensitive TODAY’S WORLD subject, that the scene takes place in a bar, and LAUREN BORHCELT Staff Writer

Classic cartoons are filled with characters dropping grand pianos on each other, whapping each other on the heads with frying pans, exploding trains, and cars with TN. Yet, somehow, the ills of society today rarely involve death by a felled grand piano or flattening with a frying pan. In those cartoons, Wile E. Coyote recovered from his own TNT disaster and revived in the next frame to chase the Roadrunner again.

that it’s supposed to be in a kid’s show, was most certainly for the best. Pepe le Pew, as many agree, does not belong in a children’s cartoon, even if reprimanded for his behavior.

However, not all Warner Brothers changes are necessarily good changes, and there has been one in particular that caused much controversy, perceived by some as a type of radical censorship: Elmer Fudd, the perpetual hunter of Bugs Bunny, the wascally wabbit, is currently seen without his trusty rifle. This was because he was accused of promoting Enter the 21st century and the world of live action movies, gun violence by some people. But if he is indeed a hunter, where these classic cartoons come to life - Beauty and the with what is he to hunt if not with a weapon of some sort?

Beast, Aladdin, Dumbo, Jungle Book, Cinderella and Alice in Some people ask what’s next to come with inevitable future Wonderland, just to name a few. Where Disney left off, Warner changes.

Brothers Pictures is picking up with Space Jam: A New Legacy (in theatres July 16, 20210) and bringing our favorite Looney While some decision are viewed as not only entirely reasonTunes characters to life on the big screen -- well, most of able, but responsible, and others are viewed to be bordering them. Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Marvin the Martian, Tweety, on censorship and extremism, everyone can clearly see Sylvester, Foghorn Leghorn, Lola Bunny, and Speedy Gonzales changes being made in cartoon and animation revivals. As will be there, but Pepe le Pew will be left in the proverbial dust more changes are being made, audiences will get to watch of indecency. the effects unfurl.

This is because New York Times columnist Charles M. Blow determined that Pepe le Pew, a cartoon character who was removed, added to rape culture. Penelope Pussycat is constantly in his clutches and struggles mightily to get away from him. He never takes no for an answer. He advances again and again to no avail. Warner Brothers had no comment on Blow’s tweet about Pepe. Evidently, there was initially a scene with Pepe in the movie and it was left on the cutting room floor.

The scene is rumored to be of Pepe in a bar and he hits on a woman in the bar countless times. He does his signature Pepe move and kisses her arm to which she responds by slapping him and throwing her drink on him. He is then told he has a restraining order against him by Penelope Pussycat and told that he cannot grab other Tunes at will and without their permission. This cut, considering that it covers such a heavy

16 OPINION

While some changes are good, some are also bad. illustration by: Emma Harris

GUYS AND DOLLS RECAP ELLIE JOHNSON Staff Writer

This March, Westminster showed their winter production of Guys and Dolls. The musical romantic comedy by Abe Burrows and Jo Swerling centers around the hilarious story of a clever gambler and a puritanical missionary as well as a showgirl wanting to settle down with a crap game manager.

The actors shared many hilarious moments together on and off the stage, making their experience memorable and giving the show a spark that the audience enjoyed seeing. Ava Berutti, junior and actress playing Sarah Brown, said that her favorite part of the show was “being able to dance and sing while my character was drunk and going out of my comfort zone.” The unpredictability and comedy of the scene was portrayed very well, most likely due to Berutti’s enjoyment of acting it.

that was built offstage brought teamwork and a special quality to the show.

Overall, the show was a success with 341 people viewing online through the Livestream or the Director’s Cut as well as averaging 185 in-person viewers in the audience each night according to Allen Schwamb and Kathy Eichelberger, both members of the Westminster theater department. The set and costumes looked near professional as they brought a liveliness to the stage and made the show even more enjoyable to watch. All of the cast members clearly worked hard to make the production one they could be proud of. Belle St. John, junior and stage manager of the show, said, “I think that we successfully pulled off the show without any hitches, and all of the scene changes were fluid and well done. I’m proud of what I was able to accomplish” and Elizabeth Nolting, senior and actress playing Miss Adelaide said, “I am extremely proud of the show. So much work was put into it and I believe the resulting show reflected that. It was a pleasure to be involved.”

Meanwhile offstage, junior and actor playing Sky Masterson, Stewart Geisz, said, “My favorite moment was every time at the end of act one.

I throw my hat to the ground in a fit of rage and people backstage can tell you that I look real mad. Sam Parker Stillman and Luke Laughlin would come beside me and say stuff like ‘it’s gonna be ok’, ‘we know the end of the story’, and ‘it’s all gonna work out’ while I jokingly raged all the way to the boys’ dressing room. This quickly turned into a game as more and more guys would come beside me and try to keep me from getting to the boys dressing room.” The comradery of the actors

guys and dolls, photos from the live preformce on saturday night photos by: yearbook

NEWS 17

GET TO KNOW YOUR PRINCIPAL: MRS. ROHLFING Her ultimate goal, as she affirms, is to give the students the very best experience possible. And in order to do so, she recognizes the imporStaff Writer tance of uplifting and training teachers. “When teachers feel supported Perhaps you’ve seen her walking through the hallways or sitting in her and have clarity, it is evident to the student body. In order to learn you office, or you’ve had the privilege of being her student in the chemishave to trust the teacher—that they know what they’re doing, that they try classroom. Mrs. Rohlfing, who has been an integral member of the Westminster community for 12 years now, currently works as the 9th and can communicate well, that they follow through.”

10th grade principal and a sophomore chemistry teacher. Her valuable contributions to the student administration often take effect behind the The following two guiding questions help to direct her focus: “Do the kids feel safe and seen?” and “Do the teachers feel supported?” scenes—yet daily she diligently seeks to meet the needs of both the students and faculty.

Throughout her time at Westminster, Mrs. Rohlfing recalls that she has experienced immense growth in prioritizing the satisfaction of students Mrs. Rohlfing is a woman of many hobbies and talents, ranging from sports to science to music, all of which she has been involved in during and faculty. Under the mentorship of Mr. Hall during her earlier years her time at Westminster. She asserts, “A schoolhouse is the best place to and faced with certain challenges in administration, she has learned the importance of realizing what matters most and keeping it at the be when you have multiple interests.” forefront. She finds deep fulfillment in assuring that the Westminster community feels seen and loved, genuinely wanting to hear their stories But outside of these varying interests, she has worked to support the and support them through their journeys, wherever they are. curriculum, teachers as they deliver it, and students as they receive it.

KAITLYN BUTLER

A large part of her work day consists of meeting with students, faculty, and staff to problem solve, coach teachers to create an effective learning Mrs. Rohlfing concludes, “This community is incredible. People will do whatever it takes for you. It is such a privilege to know it’s Kingdom environment, and identify issues by noticing and responding to trends.

She specifically emphasizes the importance of the connection between work, that showing up each day matters even though it is difficult.” teachers and students: “Building relationships with students is such a key part of what teachers do, and we must figure out how that plays out in the classroom.”

18 FEATURES

NEWS 19

THE NEW POPCORN AT PAWPRINT 9TH GRADER, GUY MATTHEWS HAS CREATED A NEW PRODUCT FOR PAWPRINT TO SELL DREW CAHILL Staff Writer

9th grader Guy Mathews is a three season athlete, playing football, basketball, and lacrosse. He is six foot five inches, and can now dunk. Guy is a tremendous athlete, but sports aren’t his real talent.

buy popcorn at any size through his instagram account at guys_popcorn. There will be promotions and deals on his instagram and there will be a website soon as well.

Guy says that the main goal of his popcorn is to learn about business, “I also want to provide people with great high quality food”, says Guy Mathews. I encourage people to buy some of Guy’s popcorn because it is great tasting real popcorn that supports entrepreneurship. I have never had popcorn better than Guy’s.

Guy Mathews makes insane popcorn. He started selling his popcorn at pawprint on Wednesday, March 8. It took time to get his popcorn business approved by the nurse, but his snack is now ready to go. Guy will make many different flavors and mix in many different candies so that his popcorn isn’t boring.

In late November Guy walked down into his basement looking for his football. Instead, he found a popcorn machine. Guy used this to his advantage and immediately began making popcorn. As time went on he started adding different candies and flavors to find the best tasting popcorn. He would test it during seventh hour with Mrs. Sperber. “Mrs. Sperber has helped me tremendously. She connected me with Mr. Maloy and I couldn’t have done it without her” says Guy. He is very thankful for Mrs. Sperber and his companions at pawprint. Guy soon made a business called Guy’s Popcorn.

Guy’s Popcorn at Pawprint Image by: Guy Matthews One of the hardest parts of this business was getting the food approved by the nurse. This process took three months as Guy gained trust. Guy washes his hands constantly while making popcorn, he wears his mask, and wears gloves. He makes sure that the peanut butter products do not touch other popcorn to prevent allergic reactions.

Guy has two flavors currently and more will come. “The Original” is normal popcorn with watermelon sour patch kids mixed in, and the “TreyWay” has Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups mixed into the popcorn. The price through Pawprint is three dollars and people can also

20 NEWS

Guy Matthews, 9th Grade. Image by: Drew Cahill

THE ‘CHRISTIAN’ TROPE EMMA HARRIS Content Editor

I’m sure we are all well aware of that one recurring television trope: the ‘Christian’ character, who is uptight, irritatingly judgemental, and possibly one of the most hypocritical characters to ever grace the television screen. Often, writers might as well hand their christian character a sign reading “God hates the gays!” and send them running down the hallways screaming “you’re all going to hell!” then turn around and slap somebody.

One of the most well known examples of this judgemental, hypocritical christian trope that comes to mind is Angela Martin, from beloved show The Office. Angela never cracks a smile, consistently meets others with apathy, looks down on her fellow coworkers, and preaches ideals only to turn around The stereotyped religious character on television shows and break them over and over again. She talks about abstinence on multiple is a detriment to religion and God. Illustration by: Emma occasions, expects other non-believers to practice it and shames them if they Harris do otherwise, and not only sleeps with other characters out of wedlock, but cheats on partners in the process. To top it all off, she even calls Pam “the office that couldn’t be further from the truth. mattress.” Angela is hypocritical, judgemental, uptight, apathetic, has little If TV characters are the majority of representation people are given for redeeming qualities, and is, you guessed it, religious. christians and christian ideals, the picture of a christian and God will be one of T.V. shows with the token Christian character, such as Angela in The Office, are hypocrisy, judgement, the inability to have empathy, and hate. This is incredibly dangerous. No one wants to worship a God they feel hated by, and no one careful to remind you the reason the character acts in such hateful ways is because, and solely because, they are religious. Often, juxtaposed to a spiteful wants to enter a house they do not feel welcome in. No one is going to turn to a God they believe to have corrupt morals. remark is a justification or a (typically incorrect) reference to the Bible, or an out of place mention that they have youth group or bible study next week.

Scenes will frequently occur where said character is spewing hate while their Are there real Christians that act like these fictional characters? I’m sure.

But there are not enough for me, a Church-goer and student at a Christian crucifix sits prominently around their neck. school, to have ever actually encountered one. However, on television shows, Some may point out that such characters are obviously meant to be satire and I struggle to think of many religious characters who are consistently religious no one will take them seriously. But isn’t satire defined as exaggerating a situa- throughout the whole show (meaning their religion isn’t mentioned twice then tion for the sake of poking fun at or critiquing reality? (The answer is, according completely forgotten about for the entirety of the remaining series) that are portrayed in a positive light. to many different dictionary websites, yes. Dictionary.com defines satire as “the use of irony, sarcasm, ridicule, or the like, in exposing, denouncing, or deriding vice, folly, etc.”). My point is that satire will always be taken seriously to The real Christian ideal and the real God are quite the opposite of their some degree, and any degree of such an intense character filled with so much portrayal on television. God does not instruct Christians to look at others with vehement hatred is still going to be a character of hatred. And because satire self-righteous judgement, but explicitly says not to, that He is the only judge plays off of truth to work (or at least the perceived truth), won’t people regard and if we are to judge, we are to hold ourselves to the same standard they the christian trope to hold some truth? Isn’t the whole point of making these have fallen short of, and since we have all sinned and have all fallen short of the glory of God, we have failed to reach that standard as well. The real God characters in the name of satire to point out the flaws of religion? never turns away anyone who seeks Him, no matter how sinful they are. The Perhaps religious characters are portrayed this way to appeal to an increasing real God teaches empathy. The real God warns against hypocrisy. The real God atheist audience, maybe they reflect real experiences and frustrations the writ- forgives, even when forgiveness is not deserved. The real God is not of hate ers have gone through, maybe they make for easy comedy. Either way, we see but love, unconditional love that extends to every single person others have a clear pattern in our culture of people moving away from religion, abhorring it, deemed unworthy, and expects Christians to have the same unrestrained love. even, and it’s no wonder. Every religious character portrayed in such a negative The real God takes joy in welcoming you, no matter who you might be. But manner not only gives their religion a bad reputation, but their negative aspects when portrayed on television, this is not the God that is shown, and we are are assumed to be a shared trait of God. If someone sees a religious character seeing the consequences in our rapidly changing society that is moving away that takes pride in their hate, they will assume hate is the teaching of God, when from Him.

OPINION 21

Westminster Christian Academy

22 800 SPORTING

2021 GIRLS LACROSSE PREVIEW EVAN KOHN Staff Writer

competed at a consistent varsity level, and varsity is a whole different speed than JV. Another big key for the Cats is going to be building a strong community within the team.

The girls varsity lacrosse team is coming off a COVID-shortened season. All of the players were devastated, and our heart “It’s hard to play good lacrosse in a good rhythm if we don’t goes out to the seniors that missed out on their final season. trust each other, but we have a great group of girls, so that will On the bright side, the current varsity team is looking forward come with time,” said Mabry. to a very successful 2021 season.

Head Coach Jamie Kuhn is excited for this upcoming season, Luckily, the shortened season may have been for the benefit and she believes that the team will work well together even of Kharis Perona, junior. Perona had an ACL injury last year, with a little bit of inexperience. Overall, everyone should look so she would have missed most of last season anyways. This forward to a successful season from the girl lacrosse team. year, Kharis will be back to 100%, and it will be her third year on varsity as well as second as a captain.

“Kharis is always a force no matter what side of the field she is on. She is just so fun to watch and awesome to play with,” said Nicki Mabry, senior.

The team is full of juniors and seniors. Two that stick out are Nicki Mabry and Tatum Osmon, junior. Mabry is a large part of the Wildcat defense and a leader on the team, and Osmon has done a lot of off season work and will step up this year to fill a big scoring role on the attack. Kharis and Tatum work well together and both absolutely love the game.

Another junior that will have an impact is Kaitlyn Butler. She will be filling the role of one of the main defenders alongside Nicki. Butler will look to build on her always improving skills in this season of lacrosse with the help of her exceptional hard work and commitment to the team. Additionally, Lucy Knerr has made varsity as a freshman. Knerr is eager to showcase her skills and prove that she can keep up with the upperclassmen.

All of the seniors will have to step up as leaders and players because after losing a year of experience, it still feels like the Girls lacrosse team celabrate after 14-4 win over Howell North. Photo by Marty Briner. team is somewhat new to the varsity level; most girls have not

800 SPORTING 23

2021 BOYS LACROSSE SEASON PREVIEW NOLAN JONES Staff Writer

The lacrosse team is looking to get the “sour taste” as Teddy Peirick, senior defenseman, puts it, out of their mouth from a heartbreaking end of a good season two years ago. Luckily, the beauty of sports is the ability to get back up from a hit and come back stronger. That opportunity was taken out of the hands of nearly all athletes from COVID-19 last year.

The lacrosse team was looking to build off of a great season and roll right into another, but their season was taken and the chance to build off of their momentum was gone.

Despite losing their whole season, the team kept going. The guys were able to play on the same team over the summer and start to rebuild that momentum.

“We played together all summer and you can see that carrying over to the Vianney game because they are a good team, we just wanted it more than them,” said Peirick.

The boys had a tough home opener, as CBC came in hot and took the game. After a tough way to start at home, the team was able to protect the house with a quality win over the Vianney Griffins 9-7. They were then able to keep that same pace as they scored nine more goals against Republic on the road, beating them 9-8.

Teddy says he’s looking forward to having a dangerous defense this year. This

defense will be locked down by Kevin Cacamo, Max Kramer, and Teddy Peirick, all seniors. This defensemen crew has been waiting for their chance to out work their competition for their brothers.

The team is also looking to Nick Lee, senior goalie, to be the brick wall that he has been in the past. Jackson Selk, senior, is out front leading the team with six goals in the first three games, as he looks to lead his fellow seniors in leaving it all on the field. Tough guys in the middle, Andrew Smith and William Holt, seniors, plan to follow Selk and hope to see all of their hard work pay off in their final season.

“We are a family. It’s on our jerseys and our helmets, and no one can break the family apart. But the biggest part of the team is the coaches they train us year around basically so when the season comes around we are the best we can be,” said Peirick.

The team is excited to play and see how the chemistry built over the summer and in years past plays out this season.

They look to see that hard work and chemistry mesh all together in time for a state run and a shot at bringing home our first Westminster lacrosse state title.

The boys move on to play their fourth game of the year against the Ladue Rams back at home on Wednesday, March 31st.

boys lax team warming up for pratice.

Photo by: Maggie Lindstrom

24

2021 TRACK AND FIELD PREVIEW After a year layoff, the track team is ready to go.

COLIN RING Staff Writer Last spring, the track and field team’s season ended before it even started with the appearance of the COVID pandemic, making them all the more eager to compete this year. The squad returns loads of talent in numerous events, including school record holder in the pole vault, Gus Wilkerson, senior, and 2019 state medalist in the discus as a freshman, LJ Minner, junior.

Freiner, who already owns a top ten school 5k, looks to set personal bests in three different events this year.

“This season I am hoping to break 9:40 in the two mile, break 4:40 in the mile, and break 2:05 in the 800,” said Freiner. “It is awesome to grow and get faster with others around you, and push yourself to the limit to run as hard as you can.

I am looking forward to seeing myself improve individually, and see how fast myself and others can run as the season progresses.”

The team had their first race on Thursday, March 25 at St. Dominic high school

and competes again on Monday, March 29 at Rockwood Summit high Wilkerson, who also runs the 100 and 200 meter dashes for the team, is looking school. to take his talents to new heights.

“My main goal is to top [his own] school record [in the pole vault] by at least a foot and a half so hit 13’. On top of that I want to go sub 11.3 in the 100 and depending on the team beat the 4x1 school record,” said Wilkerson.

Like Wilkerson, Minner has also been an extremely important member to the team over the past few years. Although he is well known as Westminster’s star running back, Minner’s athletic prowess in track and field cannot be overlooked.

Placing eighth in the discus as a freshman two years ago, Minner is a natural talent who has the unique potential to be one of the best in the state this year.

His aptitude for the throws is gentitc as well, as Minner’s sister, Adrianna, set the school record in the shot put and finished fifth at state in both the shot put and the discus as a senior in 2019.

Similarly, Annessa Shively, senior, is also an exceptional multi-sport athlete.

Shively, who is committed to play soccer for the Arkansas Razorbacks next year, is looking forward to her final track season.

The track team warms up before a hard workout Photos by Colin Ring

“My favorite thing about track is hanging out with the team at meets and running as the anchor in the 4x4 because there’s so much adrenaline and it’s the last race of the day. I’m just excited we get to have a season since we didn’t last year,” said Shively.

If all goes according to plan, Shively is not afraid to say that she hopes to own a spot atop the track and field record board.

“My goals for this season are to break the school record in the 400 and 800,” said Shively. Finally, the distance team also returns a lot of talent from this year’s cross country team. XC Varsity runners Hunter Freiner, Hayden Turley, Caleb Moellenhoff, Thomas Gorline, Colin Ring, and Connor Venneman, all seniors, have all taken their talents to the squad and hope to build upon their cross country success.

25

2021 BOYS TENNIS PREVIEW New young prospects hope to add to the tennis team’s success this season.

HOPE LINAM Staff Writer

Similar to the rest of the spring sport athletes, boys tennis was disappointed to not have a season last year due to COVID-19. They are led by Coach Madelline Bishop, or better known by the players as “Cojo,” as well as Coach -- Reilly who also coaches girls tennis. In years past, the boys tennis teams have been decent, but they have not won many titles. However, this year they are looking forward to the completion of their season and are hungry for matches and possibly a district title.

Daniel Stengel, junior, serves an ace during tryouts.

Photo by: Hope Linam

There are also many underclassmen who will add to the team’s success this year, including Tyler Collison and Evan Jordan, sophomores, and Elliot Campbell and Stephen Spencer, freshmen. These underclassmen are anticipated to help the team because of the immense talent that they already bring to the table. On top of that, The team is expected to have a prosperous season with upperclass- they will have two or three more years to develop their skill and put men returners Seth Noel and Matthew Kinney, seniors, and Griffin the Westminster boys tennis on the map.

Alm and Daniel Stengel, juniors, leading the program to a winning season. Both Noel and Stengel have killer serves that are difficult “These new underclassmen are really hard working boys with a lot of talent, and having them on the team brings a lot of depth. In addition to that, they have really good attitudes which makes them a fantastic addition to the team,” said Caleb Legters, junior.

“We were all looking forward to [last] season. But, it also makes us appreciate this year even more. I think that more passion in the team was built up from not playing last year, and this season we get to play that out,” said Griffin Alm, junior.

The seniors will be leading the team through their hard work and experience on varsity. They are looking forward to the completion of their seasons and ending their highschool careers on a high note.

“I am looking forward to making the best of what is yet to come, and even though I am not an official captain of the team, I want to do my best to encourage the other guys whether they are up or down in their matches, and I want to make them feel welcome on the team. All the guys have improved dramatically in the off season, and I can’t wait to see how they do on varsity,” said Kinney.

Griffin Alm, junior, smokes a serve to his opponent Aiden Cowie, senior.

Photo by: Hope Linam

for opponents to return, giving them an edge against the competition.

26

2021 BOYS BASEBALL PREVIEW The team is looking forward to the upcoming season ahead after last year’s season got cut short.

HOPE LINAM Staff Writer

At the end of the 2019 season, the boys varsity baseball made it all the way to state but unfortunately fell to Borgia, which brought the season to a disheartening close. They were eager and geared up to compete all the way to state again last year but were unable to have the opportunity due to COVID-19. With multiple seniors going on to play college baseball next year, the team is stacked with talent and cannot wait for games to start in the following weeks.

“We got to state in 2019 by the guys putting in hard work in the off season and trusting in the process throughout the year, and we will seek to do those same things this season,” said Head Coach Dan Petke.

Prep Baseball Reports ranked Nick Moten, senior, to be the fourth leading class of 2021 athlete in the entire state of Missouri, followed by Adam Ebling, senior, at number six, and Zach Dantuono, senior, at ten. Moten regularly throws 91-93mph and can top out at 95mph. Adding that to a mix of off-speed pitches, Moten will be an extremely tough pitcher to hit off of this season.

Not only is the team strongly built with talented seniors, but they also have a solid group of juniors and a sophomore who will contribute immensely to the team. Jacob Brown, junior, who could find himself at the front end of the pitching rotation this year, tops 88mph from the mound. Max Mentel, sophomore, also is one to watch, as he reaches 86mph and has two more years to grow his potential.

Max Mentel throws a fast ball in an intersquad game.

Photo courtesy of Arista Hampton “The strongest part of the team I would say is pitching. We have a lot of good younger arms in Jacob Brown and Max Mentel, and I think they’re going to be great for us in the rotation this spring,” said Moten.

Both Jeremy Sheffield and Parker Smith, juniors, are incredibly gifted in the infield and outfield, as they are unbelievably fast. Sheffield’s additional versatility makes him a well-rounded player and extremely valuable to the team. “[Sheffield] is going to be a great bat for us in the lineup this spring and is a vacuum in the infield. He can play short, second, third, and outfield so he has a lot of versatility to him which is good because we are going to be able to move him around if needed,” said Moten.

With heightened competition this season, the team is looking to focus on the fundamentals and use that to put the ball in play often, making Westminster baseball tough to beat.

“There are no easy opponents on our schedule this year, so we will find success by executing the fundamentals on a daily basis,” said Coach Petke.

Between Zach Dantuono, Adam Ebling, Luc Fuller, Landen Johnson, and Nick Moten, the class of 2021 will have lots of representation in college baseball next year. Dantuono is headed to Mizzou, Ebling to Tulane, Fuller to Drury, Johnson to Indiana State, and Moten to the University of Arkansas. These athletes will possibly face one another in college but look forward to completing their senior season’s out together in high school.

Nick Moten catches a ball in an intersquad game.

Photo courtesy of Arista Hampton

27

2021 BOYS GOLF PREVIEW GUS DUDA Staff Writer The men’s golf team is eager to build on a team district championship in 2019. The team had high hopes for the spring of 2020, but like all other spring sports, they were extremely disappointed when the season was cancelled.

“The cancellation was tough because we only have four years of high school golf and now only three years since last year’s season was cancelled. It stole an opportunity to compete with the team and make a run in the playoffs,” said Jack Wooldridge, junior.

“We cannot change what has already happened and dwell on it, but losing a season is a big deal, and we don’t want to pretend that never happened. I think we can use it as motivation to appreciate the fact we get to play as we can easily take for granted that fact that we can play. Also, as a motivation to use the time we have left whether seniors or juniors or whatever grades to make the most of what we have!” said Head Coach Brian Burkey.

younger golfers to take their place. They have been working hard to improve their game and will be able to contribute to the team this year and in years to come,” said Luke Burkey.

Golf is a sport in which players can easily lose their edge if they do not play for extended periods of time. For this reason, it is crucial for players to play on the course and hit the practice facilities in the offseason.

“I have been playing a lot. I competed in summer and fall tournaments and have been trying to get to the course whenever weather permits. I have been recently working on being smarter and more methodical on the course with the goal of having a nice, boring round of fairways and greens,” said Wooldridge.

Despite the setback of cancellations and loss of seniors, the team has high hopes for this season. The coaches and players alike have goals set as individuals and also as a team.

“Personally, I want to beat my numbers from freshman year, so consistently staying in the thirties in matches and hopefully placing in one of the big tournaments. I missed out on all-state honors freshmen year, so that is definitely a goal for this year. For the team, it would be great if we could go to state,” said Wooldridge.

The varsity squad loses three seniors this year but has a strong returning five: Cole Willyard, senior, and Jack Wooldridge, Luke Burkey, Sam Vestal, and Jackson Lawrence, juniors. Twelve other players will fight to fill the three open spots.

“We have a lot of talent coupled with a good number of juniors and seniors who have some experience. So going into any match or tournament we have the ability to compete “The loss of three seniors definitely impacted the team because all three were top eight at a high level, so we have set some high expectations this year,” said Coach Burkey. and were the leaders of the team, but it has opened an opportunity for some of the

Jack Wooldridge (left), Cole Willyard (middle), and Jackson Lawrence (right) on the range before practice.

Photo by Gus Duda

28

2021 BOYS VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW MARTY BRINER Co-Editor of Sporting

The Westminster boys volleyball team has changed immensely since last year.

They have gained a new head coach, Kent Adams, and graduated over half of their team. Because the eight 2020 seniors did not get their senior season due to the pandemic, they did not get a chance to pass the torch onto the 2021 seniors.

Hoping to help seniors step into their roles is new head coach Kent Adams.

Adams is a familiar face for the team because he coached the JV team back in 2018. Volleyball runs in his blood and is passionate about the game and his players.

All around, the team is fresh as they prepare to have a competitive season and has several central team goals.

“Grow. Learn. Challenge each other, and be leaders on and off the court,” said Adams.

In addition to the new coach and team dynamic, the team gained junior transfer, Jacob DeMaggio. DeMaggio has only played volleyball for four years but has played year-round for three of those four; he is hoping his hard work and dedication will lead to a state run.

“I feel that my main goal is to have everyone playing at their best ability and to have a completely unified team,” said DeMaggio.

Unity is especially important to DeMaggio because of his unique position on the team, as a transfer.

“Transferring to a new school junior year has been a little hard socially, but coming into a team with everyone having a common interest really does help, and I’m excited to spend time with these people,” said DeMaggio.

Despite not being here last year, DeMaggio feels the team is adjusting well to Adams.

“I feel that everyone has adapted to Coach Adams very well. Everything happened pretty quickly, but right as he came in he showed that he can relate to us while still being an effective coach, which was really helpful,” said DeMaggio.

The last piece of the puzzle to have a successful season is team culture and comradery. DeMaggio is very confident in this will be the easy part for the boys.

“The culture of the team here is very upbeat. Everyone is willing to play and is very friendly and open with one another,” said DeMaggio.

Braden White jumps fpr the ball.

The boys volleyball team has a very fresh start this year, and it will be fun to see Pictures by Maggie Lindstrom what they do with it

29

2021 GIRLS SOCCER PREVIEW The girls varsity soccer team welcomes a challenging schedule with help from talented underclassmen.

BROOKE HIGHAMRK Co-Editor of Sporting

When last year’s spring soccer season was cancelled due to COVID-19, players were devastated.

“I did not handle it well at all, and I know some other people reacted the same way. But after the initial shock I think a lot of us from the soccer team and other sports were motivated to work really hard throughout quarantine so that when we did get to play again, we would be better and stronger than before,” said Annessa Shively, senior Arkansas women’s soccer commit.

this year,” said Shively.

In addition to player leadership, coaches Dan Legters and Bill Lawrence will be devoted to guiding and preparing the girls to face their adverse schedule.

“Our coaches truly put their hearts into the team, which is reflected by the hours they spend walking us through drills and preparing us for every game,” said Moeller.

As well as being dedicated to the team, the coaches are also invested in each individual player.

“In my experience, whenever I am concerned about how I am playing or approach my coaches for further instruction, they always consider my personal strengths and challenges while giving me advice on how to improve my game,” said Moeller.

This year, there will be a few changes to the girls soccer season. Similarly to the winter sport restrictions, there will be a fan limit for all games, and athletes will have to wear masks on the sidelines. Luckily, however,

Grace Clement dribbles the ball in a pratice scrimmage.

Photo by: Maggie Lindstrom

Luckily, the team will be supported by a combination of fresh new players and experienced veterans in their pursuit of success in the 2021 season.

“The varsity team this year consists of all grade levels with some talented new freshmen that will help us put our best foot forward against the high Lauren Sowers, sophomore, jogs down the field in practice. quality teams we face this season,” said Maddy Moeller, junior.

Photo by: Maggie Lindstrom

“This season we have the toughest schedule we’ve ever had. However, none of us coaches are worried about it because of the immense lead- masks are not required when players are on the field. ership coming from our senior captains, Zoe Litner, Annessa Shively, and Additionally, the team got moved down a class which could contribute to Grace Clement,” said Judy Pritchett, head JV coach. their success.

Often, with new players comes a new style of play.

“For postseason, we moved down to class 2, so we have a good chance “We’re also a much more offensive minded team than we’ve been in the of making it pretty far,” said Shively. past, so it’ll be interesting to see how that changes our playing style for

30

JACK WOOLDRIDGE LOOKING FOR STRONG COMEBACK SAM VESTAL Staff Writer

golf,” said Wooldridge.

Jack Wooldridge, a Westminster junior, is known for low scores on the golf Overall, Jack says that he has learned a lot from golf over the years and has course. As a freshman on the golf team, he made a name for himself after become a more mature player. placing fifth at districts with a 77, first at sectionals with a 74, and 22nd at state with a 78 and an 81.

“I have learned to keep my composure, whether I am playing great or playing poorly,” said Wooldridge.

While Wooldridge says he enjoys the individual aspect of tournaments, he also loves being a part of the Westminster golf team.

Golf is certainly a sport that has its highs and lows. It is very easy to go from

“The best way to play golf is with a good group of friends, and high school golf is that with competition. Golf is a very individual sport, so having three months a year when I have a group of teammates by my side is really nice,” said Wooldridge.

playing amazing one day to terrible the next. Jack’s patience and composure on the golf course certainly shows his years of experience and practice.

Another crucial aspect of Wooldridge’s success on the golf course is his ability to adapt and overcome the tough situations that he regularly finds himself in. All of his shots are analyzed and thought through before he executes them, and the focus and concentration that he displays on every shot is a crucial aspect to his low scores.

Despite the amount of talent that Jack Wooldridge displays on the golf course, he also plays hockey in the winter athletic season. Because of how vastly different his hockey swing is, he does claim that there is some interference with his golf swing at the beginning of the season. While there are some negative As the spring athletic season begins and the boys golf team starts practicing, effects that come from his hockey mechanics, he believes that the positives Wooldridge will surely be preparing for the upcoming season. Because last outweigh the negatives. year’s golf season was cut short because of coronavirus, Jack and the rest of the team will be eager to get back out onto the course.

“I typically gain about ten yards with the driver every winter as I take a lot of slap-shots in hockey. I also feel that hockey helps my hand-eye coordination in

Jack Wooldridge hits on the range at practice.

Photo by: Gus Duda

31

32