800 Sporting-Fall Season

FALL ISSUE Years in the Making PG: 5

1

Theofficial officialnews newsfeedf feedffor forWestminster WestminsterAthletics.

Athletics.Live Livereporting reportingand andcoverage coverageon onallallwestminster westminstersports sports The

Football celebrates a District Championship Win, Photo Credit Joey Fentress

Snyder Shocks the Community Jake Keane & Ethan Martin

The Westminster Wildcats, a high school football team with a roller coaster of a history, had been accustomed to the taste of defeat. For years, many losing seasons hung over the team, casting a shadow on the aspirations of both players and fans. However, change came through Westminster as the Wildcats hired a new head coach, Cory Snyder, determined to break the streak.

Coach Snyder, with a reputation for turning teams around, brought a fresh perspective and an unwavering belief in the potential of his players. The student and fans, initially skeptical, soon found themselves inspired by his passion and dedication. Snyder’s charisma resonated with the team, injecting a newfound sense of purpose. When asked about the change Snyder brought this year, “There was a culture change in practice and we as a team held ourselves accountable for bringing energy to each practice and being at the place we

2

Sean Gross holding the District Championship trophy, Photo Credit Joey Fentress

The Wildcats’ roster was predominantly composed of seniors, veterans who have been weathered by disappointment. Among them, the senior quarterback, a resilient leader who had seen the highs and lows of high school football, and the freshman quarterback, a rising star with raw talent and an eagerness to learn. Together, they formed an unlikely but effective partnership that would become the backbone of the team. The season unfolded with promise and anticipation. The Wildcats, guided by Coach Snyder’s strategic intentions, navigated through the schedule with determination. Wins accumulated, and the students, longing for success, rallied behind their team. The senior quarterback, a picture of poise under pressure, orchestrated plays with finesse, while the freshman quarterback injected youthful excitement and unpredictability into the mix.

Coach Snyder walking back to the sidelines, Photo Credit Joey Fentress

wanted to be so that we could succeed and meet our goal”. Said Devin Coulter, senior wide receiver.

Devon Coulter, senior wide receiver, emerged as a breakout star. His lightning-fast sprints and acrobatic catches made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Records tumbled as Coulter etched his name in the school’s football history, becoming a beacon of hope for the Wildcats. In the backfield, Josh Avery, the seasoned running back, bulldozed through defenses with a combination of power and finesse. His determined runs often turned the tide of games, and Avery became a symbol of the Wildcats’ resurgence.wAs the season progressed, the Wildcats found themselves in a position they hadn’t dared to dream of—a shot at the district championship. The community, once resigned to disappointment, now brimmed with anticipation.

The championship game was a clash of titans, a culmination of the team’s collective effort and Coach Snyder’s transformative leadership.

The Wildcats fought tooth and nail, their seniors playing with a sense of urgency, knowing this was their last chance at glory.

The senior and freshman quarterbacks orchestrated a symphony of plays, while Coulter and Avery dazzled with their exceptional skills. In a nail-biting finish, the Wildcats emerged victorious, winning the district championship that had eluded them for so long.

The celebrations that followed were nothing short of euphoric. The town erupted in cheers, and Coach Snyder, hoisted on the shoulders of jubilant players, soaked in the moment. The Wildcats had not only broken the streak of losing seasons but had done so in style, clinching a district championship that would be etched in their hearts forever.

However, the journey was not without its bumps. The Wildcats, despite their triumph, ended the season with a 7-6 record.

The state playoffs proved challenging, and the team faced setbacks that tested their newfound resilience. Yet, the community understood that the record, while not perfect, was a vast improvement, a testament to the heart and soul the team had poured into every game.As the season drew to a close, Coach Snyder reflected on the transformative year. He took great pride in leading the Wildcats to a district championship in his first year back since 2015. The team, once mired in the shadows of defeat, had risen like a phoenix under his guidance. The seniors, leaving a legacy of redemption, passed the torch to the rising stars, knowing that the Westminster Wildcats were no longer defined by their past, but by the promise of a bright future.

3

4

Levi Weik celebrating after a goal with Austin Mccarthy, Photo Credit Joey fentress

Joey Fentress

Boys soccer becomes State Champions “The Soccer team is State Champions” words that had never been said before until this year. For the past 6 years the Wildcat boys soccer team has been stuck at the District Championship unable to win but this year was different. With an incredible game against Clayton Highschool the Wildcats emerged victorious earning their second District Championship title in Westminster history.

With the confidence at an all time high, the boys were ready for state. When it seemed nothing could go wrong, tragedy struck. Senior forward Caden Collison, the team’s leading scorer was out of commission for the remainder of the season. As morale decreased the boys dug deep and found a reason to fight and keep going and that is exactly what they did.

The boys were not done after districts, they had their minds set on one thing and one thing only. With their first game against Affton Highschool, the cats breezed through winning 2-0. “Although we did not play our best game, a win in the state tournament is a win and that’s what matters most for the team. We know what we need to do so we just need to do it.” Said Junior Landon Cassidy.

The Cats next opponent was Excelsior Springs, a school just north of Kansas City. The boys did not waste time.

The boys won 3-0, absolutely crushing Excelsior and sending them home not happy. This Win was huge for the boys and showed that they were indeed ready for the championship game.

With confidence at a high, the final victim for the Wildcats was Logan Rogersville High School. Coming into this game, Logan Rodgersville had an impeccable record of 26-0 but the boys were determined to make that 26-1, and that they did. The boys played aggressively putting many shots up in the first half and carried this into the second. Senior Levi Weik broke the game open on a breakaway and put the Cats up 1-0 with roughly 25 minutes left. “It felt like slow motion and i was so focused, it was electric” said Senior Levi Weik.

“Your Class 2 State Champions, Westminster Christian

Boys Soccer holding the State Championship Trophy, Photo Credit Drew Kahill

Years in the Making

Academy”. Words that had never been heard but now was reality. The boys had done it. A team that will go down in Westminster history as the team to go all the way. The 2023 Boys Soccer team will be remembered for their incredible chemistry, adversity, and the willingness to put others before themselves and play for each other as they did for their teammate Caden. “character goes a long way and we have been trying to build a culture in the soccer program that reflects grace under pressure, humility and resilience…We had been knocking on the door with previous teams but this team was able to put it all together when it mattered and willed its way to the final. We knew what we wanted to accomplish. The strength of our schedule gave us the experience we needed to not only play good soccer, but have the confidence that we were more than prepared for the task at hand, and we were right.” said Coach Legters. The team was more than prepared for the Championship game and had confidence at an all time high which is ultimately what determined the final. A team that will go down in Westminster history, your 2023 Class 2 State Champions, Westminster Christian Academy.

5

The 15th Ranked Pitcher in St. Louis Area Charlie Mathis

Freshman Jaymison Lenk makes her mark and becomes 800 Sporting’s Fall Female Athlete of the Year

Jaymison Lenk Wins Women’s Fall Athlete Award Jaymison Lenk, freshman, is announced as the 800 Sporting Women’s Fall Athlete Award. Lenk was among a crew of talented ball players who led the Westminster Softball Team to a stellar 24-5 season, earning them second place in the district.

Lenk was a true two-way player, leading the team in nearly every pitching category, as well as being second in on-base percentage (.613) and third in slugging (.674).

While others on the team competed with Lenk in the batter’s box, there were none that matched her pitching prowess. Lenk pitched 80% of all of the team’s innings, while posting a 2.32 ERA (19th in the St. Louis area). Her stuff was untouchable, accumulating 159 strikeouts (12th in the St. Louis area). Paige Branstetter, junior, explains “She was needed this year because we had lost a good pitcher, and we were moving up a class.”

Lenk filled the role of a #1 starter and an ace extremely well, racking up an 18-5 record.

Lenk finished the season with the second best batting average on the team (.523), behind only Allie Branstetter. Paige Branstetter, Allie’s sister, and owner of the third best batting average on the team, further praised Lenk’s performance: “[Jaymison]… gets on base so much that she is someone that we can trust at the lead off position.”

Jaymison was a cornerstone of an elite softball team this year, and she is a freshman, which only makes her incredible performance even more impressive.

Jamison Lenk walking up to the plate, Photo Credit Joey Fentress

6

Just as impressive as Lenk’s performance on the field, is the morale boost and hope she brings to the team. Lenk’s teammates couldn’t stop praising her. Izzy Russel, junior, praised her attitude on the field: “Even in the most stressful games, Jaymison didn’t let a mistake, either on her part or someone else on the team, affect her pitching. She always had a great attitude no matter the circumstances.”

Upperclassmen such as Ellie Berkland, senior, and Allie Branstetter, junior, are excited for Lenk and the future of the softball team. Berkland explained: “Having a freshman making such an

Jamison Lenk gets ready to pitch the ball, Photo Credit Joey Fentress

impact for the team makes me excited for not only her future, but for the future of the softball team.”

Branstetter also sees a bright future for the Jaymison: “She’ll be a huge impact next season, I can’t wait to see how she keeps improving and helping the team.”

After a stellar season at the plate, and on the mound, we at 800 Sporting are ecstatic to announce Jaymison Lenk as the 2023 Women Fall Athlete Award winner, and we can’t wait to see her on the field next year.

7

Jamison Lenk walking up to the plate, Photo Credit Joey Fentress

The Greatest Student Athlete in Westminster History?

Joey Fentress

Senior Caden Collison leaves his legacey and becomes 800 Sporting’s Fall Male Athlete of the Year Westminster is known for being both a school that boasts an impressive athletic program and is known for putting kids to work in the classroom. Westminster offers a wide variety of classes to take including all your business and art classes to your traditional course. While Westminster is known for its tough academics, it is no slouch in the sports scene. In Westminster history, we have won 16 state championships across all sports and have had 60 final four finishes. With that being said, some people who come through Westminster’s program choose to strive in both athletics and academics. One of those people is current senior Caden Collison. Collison truly puts the student in student athlete.

“Caden is the epitome of a leader on the soccer field and his work ethic and desire to be the best is second to none” said junior teammate Landon Cassidy. Caden is a 4 year varsity soccer player and has been a staple for the last 4 years. In his senior year, during the regular season Collison scored 27 goals and 65 points this season. He was the 11th highest scorer in the St. Louis area. Accumulated from his four years Caden scored 47 goals. Collison joined the varsity squad his freshman year. Caden has left his mark in the Westminster soccer program and has undoubtedly become an athlete that

8

Caden Collison playing football and socce, Photo Credit Joey

Fentress

one can not forget.

On the football field Caden plays Wide receiver. In the 9 regular season games in the 2023 season, Caden is #13 in the St. Louis area for receiving yards with 643 averaging 18.4 yards per attempt. Caden is a 4 year varsity player for the football team and has been a key player every year. “He is definitely a good teammate. He competes hard and wants to win, putting the team ahead of himself.” said coach Cory Snyder.

With soccer being his main sport, it is impressive to see that he is able to compete in both and be extremely competitive in both sports considering they play during the same season. In a game last season, Caden was seen coming from a soccer game in which he scored in, leaving that game at half to come to his football game. After arriving at football, immediately changing into pads and entering the game and scoring a touchdown. Similarly, in the Wildcats first football game of the season against Ladue High School, he played in a soccer game right before the football game. In the football game, Caden had 113 receiving yards, in the soccer game, Caden scored 3 goals against MICDS leading the Cats to the win.

With Caden having the stellar seasons he has had in his career,he has come close to achieving school records. The records Caden is in the running for is the most goals in a single season for soccer and passing yards for football. With both the soccer and football team making it far in playoffs, it was possible for these records to be reclaimed. With Caden only being 2 goals away and 14 yards away from the total passing yards and 1 game guaranteed left for soccer and football Caden got injured and and was unable to play in his last games. It is likley that if Caden were to play in his last games that he would have reached these milestones and would be the holder of 2 school records.

On top of his stellar athletics, Caden is also the front runner for the class of 2024 Valedictorian. In his freshman sophomore and junior year, Caden achieved a 4.58, 4.74, and a 5.02 Grade Point Average (GPA). This GPA was achieved through numerous Honors classes and Advanced Placement classes (AP). Out of the 15 AP classes Westminster offers, Caden has enrolled in 12..

Caden undoubtedly has a second to none work ethic, between the dedication to his athletics, the work he puts in in the classroom, and the desire to be the best.

He puts up the argument, is he one of the greatest scholar athletes to come through Westminster?

Caden Collison is the District Championship, Photo Credit Joey Fentress

9

Girls Volleyball gets ready for the next play with not student section

BlueCrew Bandwagons Genevieve Selk

“Are you guys going to win state this year?” This is a question you should ask any Westminster varsity volleyball player if you’re in the mood to get socked in the face. You would think that based on the number of students asking this question, the volleyball team would have a huge turnout of raucous fans for each match. However, the reality is that the blue crew for every game is equivalent to the turnout of a freshman tennis match? (No hate to any freshman tennis player intended). “I was surprised when I walked in to take pictures and the blue crew bleachers weren’t even pulled out,” said Mike Rohlfing, director of marketing and communications, commenting on said turnout.

Over the past three seasons, it is without a doubt that the varsity volleyball team has experienced more success than any other Westminster sports team. The team has even scored the entire school two days off to go watch them play in their state championship games, might I mention, both games that they won. While it would be easy to say that the outcome of the crowd correlates to the team’s skill, this year’s varsity team has debunked this theory. Despite having a 20+ win record this year, the blue crew still only consists of the occasional freshman whose mom forgot to pick them up. Quite frankly, this level of support for such a successful team is outrageous. The same highschool boys who are so quick to call out a girl for being a Chiefs bandwagon are the ones who have only attended two Westminster volleyball games, the last two state championships.

“I definitely went to more volleyball games than any other student,” said junior Joey Schloss. Joey went to three games. Not to discredit his support, but ask any highschool student how many football games they’ve been to this season and I guarantee that the answer is more than three.

“Energy is such an important part of our success,” said Emma Woll, Varsity volleyball star. In almost every sport, a team with no energy is an easy team to beat. “When we walk into a gym and see a big student section for the other team everyone automatically gets mad because we know our student section won’t be there at all” said Emma Woll. Emma is not the only player frustrated with the blue crew this season. When asked their opinions on the student sections this year, the rest of the team was quick to express their anger: “Not a single person has any hope for a student section anymore” said Cooper Hook. “The last time I can remember someone asking about our games was last year’s state run.” said Lexi Frazier.

If you want to be a real fan of a team instead of just a bandwagon jumper, perhaps it’s time for you to come out and support the team during regular season game and not just districts.

10

OPINION

11

Golf Places 2nd Rhoads Hall

The 2023 girls’ golf team had a remarkable season that left an indelible mark in the Westminster athletic community. With their exceptional performance, they achieved great success, both individually and as a team.

The season was marked by standout performances from several team members. Caroline Domyan and Sophie Nall demonstrated their exceptional talent by tying for 15th place at the state tournament, securing medals and contributing significantly to the team’s overall success. Caroline Domyan’s achievement was especially noteworthy as she clinched the 1st overall position in the Metro League tournament as well. Not to mention Sophie and Caroline contributed to the 2nd place finish at the 2022 Class 2 State Championship.

Under the guidance of their dedicated coaches, Steve Bradley and Rex Jansen, the team flourished. “Playing during the summer caused us to really get better and hopefully take this success right on into next season,” said Steve Bradley, head coach. Their consistent hard work and mentorship undoubtedly played a pivotal role in the team’s achievements.

The team’s unity and determination were evident throughout the season, as they maintained an impressive 9-2 record in matches. This cohesion was also reflected in their performance at the district championship, where they emerged as the champions, a testament to their skill and teamwork.

Placing second at the state tournament was a crowning achievement, demonstrating the girls’ ability to compete at the highest level. With a team average of 86.5 at the state tournament, they showcased their remarkable consistency and skill. “It was really fun to meet new people and an experience I’ll remember for the rest of my life,” said Maryn Hill, Junior.

Looking ahead, the team has an exciting future, as the entire roster is set to return next year, including junior standouts Maryn Hill, Kelsey Muschick, and Anna Drochelman.

12

Anna Drochelman hits her ball down the slopes, Photo Credit Yearbook

Adien Espy during the 100 Fly, Photo Credit Joey Schloss

Boys Swim at State Joey Schloss

With the Boys’ Swim and Dive state meet concluding on friday, November 10th, the team had three teams place in the top sixteen, a pretty prominent ranking. The season started with low expectations, a small team with low recognition for talent and it ended with placement for four swimmers.

Aidan Espy, Harrison Frost, Noah Hyatt, and Joey Schloss all raced in three relays each dropping over a second on each (a large margin for any race). Harrison, freshman, proved himself to be one of the most valuable swimmers by breaking a record in the 100 free as he started the relay.

“I’m not sure what to expect,” said Aidan Espy, Senior at the beginning of the year. With a developing team and a second year coach and coming off a rough season previously, the hopes and expectations were low.

After a season record of 2-11, the team pushed the thought of state aside, maybe it will happen next year. That was until the second to last meet, when relays started to drop. In the second to last meet of the year, after Aidan and Harrison swim an impressive first half, Noah Hyatt begins the butterfly portion of the relay with a rejuvenated sense of hope.

Breaking the one minute mark and leading Joey Schloss with a great lead to close out the race.

This race put the team in 18th position, for reference the top 32 go to state and the top 16 of the preliminary round

move on to the next day, the finals. The two weeks leading up to state had no meets, practices were the only time to focus on correcting and improving speed.

“I didn’t have a lot of hope to make it to the state finals, I knew we’d make it to top thirty-two but the thought of finals was out of the equation,” said Junior, Noah Hyatt.

At state, the team dropped time and placement in all races, sitting in 14th coming into the state finals. On friday, the team continued to drop time however they did not drop any placement, sitting 14th at the end of the day, the cats ended a bad streak and started one that can hopefully last multiple more years.

“I am very pleased with the team’s performance and the way they came together as a team at the state competition,” said Coach Rick Hendricks, “Next year I am expecting a lot more both individually and with our relay teams.”

The swim team is bouncing back after an off year in the 2023-2024 season and they expect a lot more to come next year.

13

SUPER FRESHMEN Mia Schuelen

This year the Cats have many standout freshmen making an impact on our athletics. These freshmen are not only good athletes but leaders as well both to their teammates and classmates. Below are the 6 standout freshman demonstrating greatness this year:

Emory Freesmeier

Emory is a standout varsity starter who is making her mark as a middle back. She is ranked top 5 in serve efficiency 43 GP, 127 serves, 28 aces, 167.88 pct. Senior captain Genna Selk says “Emory is an amazing athlete, to think she is only a freshman is crazy. She is doing great now and I can’t wait to see what she will do in the future.” We can say Emory has stepped up to the plate of being a varsity starter and she doesn’t seem to stop making plays anytime soon.

Caroline Cambell

Caroline is an amazing varsity starter capitalizing in the mid field. Coming in with 2 goals, 2 assists, and 1 game winning goal. She unfortunately had to miss a few games due to a surgery, but that did not hold her back. Caroline came right back into the season often not subbing in some games giving her all from the start to finish. Senior defender Corinne Plumb says “Seeing her come from injury to a standout playmaker is honestly inspiring. Time after time she leaves me in awe after how hard she works.”

Joseph Skogen

Joseph Skogen is a standout cross country runner who is making sure his name is known. Some of his stats are: 16:53.90 - 5000 Meter, 11:02.60 - 2 Mile Run, 11:36.60 - 3000 Meter Run, as well as running a sub 5 minute mile in middle school. Skogen is finishing at times many upperclassmen cannot finish at. He has already made two top 10 appearances this year as well as one first place grab. Senior athlete Andsrew Gorline says “ From the first practice I knew Joseph was going to be a high contributor to the team this year. He’s doing amazing now and I can’t wait to see what he will do in the postseason.”

Jaymison Lenk

Jaymison Lenk is a pitcher this year for the softball team. This year the cats are 19-4 and undefeated at home with Lenk as their leading pitcher.

As a freshman Lenk put up a 2.32 era which was the 15th lowest in the St Louis area. Jaymison was the go to pitcher for the Cats this year and has alot of attention coming her way in years to come. It will be exciting to see what she can do with her years to come.

14

Emory Freesmeir gets ready for a serve, Photo Credit Joey Fentress

These underclassman standouts proved to be vital roles in their team’s success. The future is bright for Westminster Athletics with these athletes only getting better in the time to come.

15 Gavin Schneider and Blake Bachlelier, Photo Credit Mia Schuelen

Softball Sets Records

Coco Fransisco

With a 6-5 loss to Parkway West in the class 3 district championship, the Wildcats closed the book on a record breaking season.

Going into the game, the cats boasted an impressive 14 game win streak with a 24-5 record. “I knew we could go far in the playoffs. After we started winning the first few games I was so proud of the team and everything we accomplished this season” said senior Molly Kate Bugh.

The Cats mercied both Clayton high school and Parkway Central in the first and second round of districts, hopes were very high going into the game.

“I had lots of confidence in our team, and I thought it could be 50/50 on which team won. I was extremely nervous but I was confident that everyone else wanted to compete and win this also” said Junior Paige Branstetter. The Cats struck first, scoring 5 runs in the first inning capped off by a Molly Kate Bugh homerun.

Both teams were held at bay by impressive pitching and defensive performances, especially by Wildcats ace Jaymison Lenk. Excitement was in the air going into the 7th inning, with a 5-2 Cats lead. However, the Longhorns showed off their strength, managing to hit all their spots and completed the comeback with a 6-5 walk off victory.

“When the playoffs started it was very bitter-sweet. I was so happy to play in districts again, but I was sad that any game could be my last ever game played” said Bugh.

Although the loss was heartbreaking, there is still a lot to celebrate about the season. The Cats set the new all time win record, with 22 regular season victories. Aswell, freshman Jaymison Lenk had a very impressive first season. She boasted an impressive 2.32 ERA with 159 strikeouts and a batting average well over .500 with one homerun. Lenk (as well as the 3 other freshmen starters,) were key contributors to the Cats success this season.

“I think the biggest contributor to our success was the team’s willingness to put in the work during practice. From everydays, to baserunning, to hitting, the team worked hard at everything” said assistant coach Todd Zell.

Hopes are very high for the team’s success next season.

“Next year, we have to replace the leadership that Molly Kate and Ellie gave us this year. My hope is we have leaders step up. We have some areas we need to improve on. I think we can be better at bunting both for hits and just putting pressure on the other team. Defensively we were pretty solid but I think we can keep improving there as well” said Zell.

16

Allie Branstetter looks to her coach to get her signs, Photo Credit Joey Fentress

Cross Country Fights Valiantly at State Ben Wooldridge

The 2023 season for Westminster’s Cross Country team will not soon be forgotten, filled with personal best racing times and the development of young, talented runners. Wildcat athletes performed well in the Class 3 State Championships at Gans Creek Cross Country Course on November 3-4.

The girls qualifying for the state meet as a team, made Westminster history by finishing second, their highest place ever in state, improving upon their district finish. Star runner Lydia Bailey placed sixth place out of 171 runners finishing the race in 19:06 only 39 seconds off first place.

“The best part of the day by far was getting second as a team. It was a huge surprise and I’m so proud of all of my teammates who gave it all they had when they needed to,” said senior, Bailey, Adding to Bailey’s success included two freshmen Isabella Holohan and Addie Van Zee placing 36th and 40th place with times of 20:15.6 and 20:19.7 respectively. Kate Van Zee and Sabrina Holohan, seniors, and Audrey Pollack all contributed to the team’s second place finish.

While the boys team did not qualify for state, two runners, freshman Joseph Skogen and Theo Deboar, qualified individually. Skogen was able to come home with a medal placing 25th with a time of 16:34.

“It felt great to medal as just a freshman, I obviously wanted to win but I’m ready to keep improving through the years,” said freshman Joseph Skogen.

Theo Deboar ran a competitive race in his first state meet placing 108 out of the 168 runners with a time of 17:50.

“Having Theo competing with me was great, I don’t know if I could have done it without him. It was nice having him there alongside me.” said Skogen.

17

Joseph Skogen running at the State Meet, Photo Credit Yearbook

The team celebrates after a goal, Photo Credit Ethan Martin

Field Hockey Makes History Mia Schuelen

This year the field hockey team had a record breaking season. Also surprising many people with their season results. The Cats started their season off strong with 3 hard fought wins over Parkway Central, Holland Hall, and Oak Park in the biggest tournament held in the Midwest. They had the opportunity to play Villa Duschene, an outstanding team who has many state championships under their belt. The Cats did not shy away from them playing some of the best defense this season, holding Villa to only 2 goals. Another exciting game against Ursuline who they went into overtime 2 years in a row, but of course coming out on top 2-1.

Moving into the post season the cast received 9th seed which is 1 higher ranking compared to last year. They started out the tournament with a towering 5-0 win against Whitfield (6-12-2).

Lucy Hager with 2, Mia Scheulen with 2, and Caroline Campbell with 1, were the contributors by scoring but there was much more across the board. The ball was kept on the offensive side majority of the time with a few breakthroughs by whitfield. But the cat’s defense kept their composure and came through with the steals. After the win we went on to play Ladue (10-8) a strong offensive team, the cats put up an early goal with a response from Ladue. The goals

18

Caroline Cambpell gets the pass, Photo Credit Yearbook

went back and forth until the cats scored 2 in the final quarter making it a 5-2 final. That’s when the Cats made Westminster history being the first team to make it to the elite 8. Which shows how hard this year’s team truly worked. After this amazing win they then had to take on John Burroughs (19-0-2) arguably the strongest team in the metro area. Westminster came out determined, holding the bombers scoreless after the first quarter. In the second Burroughs scored off a light shot to the corner. The cats didn’t let that stop them, they drew a corner and decided to pass left. The shot went wide of the goalies pad making it 2-1. It was a very hard fought game and you can tell the cats were tired in the 4th with an ending score of 6-1.

This was an amazing season with many contributors and a strong senior lineup. The cats Ansley McGowan, Lylah Kaminski, Lucy Hager, Caroline Campbell,and Annie Bendick were honorable mentions. Captain Sadie Schmidt received the honor of first team.Captain Mia Scheulen received Co-Player of the year. Can’t wait to see what they do next year.

SPORTING

19

Ansley McGowann waits for the ball, Photo Credit Ethan Martin