Photo: Fred Assaf
Taking a Look at Lasting Learn
Steven Yang ‘25 came back to Pace on September 9 to talk about something he’s been working on, an AI education platform called LastingLearn. He presented it at morning assembly, and it’s like having a personal tutor available whenever you need it. The platform helps you make flashcards, create practice tests, build interactive lessons and keep track of how you’re doing over time.
After assembly, Yang sent out an email with a demo video and instructions for signing up using our Pace Google accounts. Everyone gets one free course to try out, and if you want more, there’s a Pro plan. He also provided some codes: PACEKNIGHTS2025 gets you a onemonth free trial, and PACEKNIGHTS25OFF gives you 25 percent off lifetime access.
The courses cover everything from standard subjects like math and science to more practical skills. During assembly, Yang demonstrated the platform using an AP Calculus course, but he also showed us that there are courses for things like giving live presentations. The platform automatically generates quizzes and flashcards too, so you don’t
have to waste time making them yourself.
So how’s it different from just using ChatGPT? LastingLearn is more organized. ChatGPT is great for quick questions and explanations, but LastingLearn puts everything in one place with full courses, progress tracking and quizzes that adapt to how you’re doing. It’s designed to help you learn over time instead of just giving you fast answers when you’re stuck on homework.
Some students were not entirely convinced, though. “It’s intriguing, but I’m not gonna pay for it,” said Senior Luke Sundermire. Free AI tools like ChatGPT are already accessible, so there’s a question of whether paying for a subscription is actually worth it. Still, the assembly was valuable because it showed how AI can make studying more structured and personalized. It’s also notable that a Pace alumnus created something that could actually help current students.
Ultimately, LastingLearn provides us with a glimpse into where education might be headed. From test prep and notetaking to real-world skills like public speaking, AI is changing how we learn. It’s interesting to see what happens when someone combines AI and education into one platform, especially when that someone walked these same hallways just a few months ago.
A look inside LastingLearn, the AI-powered study platform demoed by
Pace Implements Mental Wellness Initiative
This year, Pace Academy has implemented a new Mental Wellness Initiative. A few years ago, our head of school, Mr. Assaf sat down with the counseling department and asked what percentage of students would benefit from better tools to support their mental wellbeing, and their answer came immediately – 100%. This conversation inspired Upper School counselor, Ms. Millaway to design this initiative. “He sent me to other schools around the country to see what they were doing, and we built an advisory board of professionals in the community to guide us. It’s really grown from there,” said Ms. Millaway
The Mental Wellness Initiative is not just for students in crisis. The goal is simple: to give every student the tools they need to thrive and achieve their fullest potential – not just those who are struggling. The program has three main sections which are student-run programs, family involvement, and faculty training. Students participate in activities such as Teen Mental Health First Aid, where they learn how to recognize and respond to signs of someone in distress or struggling with their mental health. The counseling team offers workshops for families to learn
Lower School students wearing mental wellness shirts.
tools they can use at home to support their children. Additionally, all teachers and staff at Pace are required to participate in a professional development session to cover topics like suicide prevention and supporting students in times of stress.
One of the most distinctive aspects of this initiative is the new Wellness Council. The Wellness Council is a board of selected students that plan events, develop programs, and discuss how they can improve the Pace experience for their
fellow peers. Each section has a different council. In the lower school, fourth and fifth grade students can join the council, while all middle and upper school students can participate in their sections’ councils. Students can also participate in the
Student Advisory Board (SAB), which is a club where students promote mental health and do activities to spread positivity around the school. There is also Pace Academy Student Support (PASS), which is peer mentoring where high school students mentor either fifth or eighth graders.
The Mental Wellness Initiative also extends into athletics at Pace Academy. Along with teachers, all coaches and athletic staff receive training focused on recognizing warning signs and supporting athletes off the field. Athletic Director Mr. Wabreck and Volleyball Coach Monroe have worked to expand this effort to ensure that athletic expectations are balanced with the athlete’s emotional wellbeing. Pace has also partnered with Sack the Stigma and Hilinski’s Hope to raise mental health awareness in the sports world. Pace alum Carly Silverstein is now a clinician and therapist for the Kansas City Chiefs. She developed Sack the Stigma to reduce stigma around mental health conversations with athletes.
The Mental Wellness Initiative will continue to grow each year. This year, the counseling department expanded its team so that each grade in the upper school has its own designated counselor. Although the program only officially launched this year, it has already become a huge success and a defining part of the Pace Academy experience.
Steven Yang.
Photo: Hayes
Pollard
Photo: Pace Academy
Following La Amistad
La Amistad is an organization with several locations throughout Metro Atlanta that helps underprivileged Hispanic children thrive, not only in school, but in life. La Amistad means friendship in Spanish. It is all about giving children the tools they need to be successful in school and their future by providing them extra tutoring and also a stable community of friends and role models.
Paige and Lily Vadnais run a La Amistad community engagement club at Pace Academy. In this club, Pace students have the opportunity to tutor the children in this program after school every other Wednesday. While there, volunteers help students with their math homework or their grammar and reading comprehension skills. The children enjoy
“I
learning while also having fun with their teenage role models.
think that it is really im- portant for the kids to have someone closer to their age mentoring them because we can connect with them more than the adults sometimes.”
- Junior Paige Vadnais
“I think that it is really important for the kids to have someone closer to their age mentoring them because we can connect with them more than the adults sometimes. We do help them with their homework, but we also pro -
vide them a support system that not all of them have at school or even at home,” said junior Paige Vadnais.
Pace Academy also holds a summer program for La Amistad where students from Pace and other schools can volunteer. This program, called Keeping Pace, is for rising first
“We obviously help the kids, but in a way, I think that this experience and these kids help us. They teach us empathy, kindness and patience.”
-Junior Sophia Halsey
through sixth grade students and it lasts for four weeks in the month of June. During the first half of the day, the children do math, grammar and reading comprehension. After lunch, the children participate in activities such as swimming, tennis, art and STEM. Volunteers for Keeping
Pace are from Pace and other schools around Atlanta. They can either work the entire month or just for a few weeks. The volunteers that work the full month act as a teacher helper and are there all day every day. They are assigned a grade to work with and they help that teacher with classroom management, helping the students understand the material, and anything else the teacher needs. The volunteers that choose to work 1-3 weeks arrive during lunch time and are in charge of taking the kids to their activities and monitoring them while also having fun and participating in the activities.
“We obviously help the kids, but in a way, I think that this experience and these kids help us. They teach us empathy, kindness and patience,” said junior Sophia Halsey.
The volunteers at La Amistad have left lasting impacts on the children. Some of the kids struggle in school or in their home life and the volunteers provide a stable, loving environment for them to express themselves and grow as students and functioning members of their community.
Five Minutes With Mr. Ferrell: His Nephew’s Journey to The Voice
In keeping up with the Pace Community, it is important to highlight family members who have achieved extraordinary things. Upper School Director of College Counseling, Mr. Ferrell, currently has a nephew who is competing on The Voice. Let’s all give our support to Max Chambers, learn about his journey to this show, and celebrate him!
Anne: Okay, to start, who is your nephew?
Mr. Ferrell: His name is Max Chambers. He is 14, so he is probably one of the younger contestants on the show; you have to be 13 to be there. He’s my sister’s son. He has been singing since he was probably about two, mostly in church. A couple of summers ago, he sang in a local talent show.
Anne: Is he from Atlanta? How did everything start?
Mr. Ferrell: They live in Shreveport, Louisiana. It’s very close to Arkansas, Texas, and Louisiana, so they call it the Arklatex. So he’s singing at an Arklatex regional talent show, and this was maybe two years ago. He sang “Who’s Loving You,” and because he won that, he was able to get an audition for The Voice.
Anne: That is so amazing! What happened in the years between now and then?
Mr. Ferrell: My sister got online to book tickets for Michael Jackson on Broadway in New York for vacation, and she saw this banner that says, now casting for Little Michael, randomly, as she’s booking these tickets. Max had just sung this Michael Jackson song. So without telling him, she just uploaded the video, and then they called and they wanted him to come audition.
Anne: So did he get the job?
Mr. Ferrell: He goes to audition, gets the job, and then has to move. So he did. He was on MJ on Broadway for a year last year.
Anne: I cannot believe he was so young. How did that lead to The Voice?
Mr. Ferrell: Well, this year, he finally gets to go on The Voice after finishing the tour. The only thing we have seen so far is the blind auditions. Now he is on Michael Bublé’s team, and Reba’s chair turned too.
Anne: Was Max confident going in, or what were his expectations?
Mr. Ferrell: It is abnormal that you start on Broadway, right? Like that, his first thing is Broadway. So we spend a lot of time just trying to make him grounded and make sure he knows everything doesn’t always happen like that.
Anne: Did he have a dream coach going into it all?
Mr. Ferrell: I think that even if everyone had turned their chairs, he still would’ve picked
Buble. That’s just his style of music.
Anne: And is he out in LA or New York right now?
Mr. Ferrell: I think the show films in LA. I don’t know how far it has been filmed; parts of it are obviously filmed, but I don’t know how it all actually works together.
Anne: What has your sister said about the experience?
Mr. Ferrell: I think it’s just weird. We were all on FaceTime talking the night the show aired, and after it ended, I said, “Wait a minute, does Max have to go to school tomorrow?” And she goes, “He sure does!”
Anne: That is so funny! I bet that is hard to navigate. If you could pick one song for him to sing, what would you pick?
Mr. Ferrell: Ooh, that’s good. I would say anything, Michael Jackson or younger Michael Jackson. That’s kind of his sweet spot.
Anne: Does he have a voice coach, or did he just grow up singing at his church?
Mr Ferrell: He just grew up singing. Fun fact, I sing too, our family’s all singers, so he’s just grown up around singing.
Anne: Does he have a plan for the future yet?
Mr. Ferrell: I think we wondered for a period of time, will singing as a job take the fun away from it? Clearly, that has
not happened. I would say he wants to do this. He has not said that to me, but sometimes what you don’t say is more important than what you do say. And I think for him, maybe not saying that, it’s just the fear of like, he doesn’t want to put anything out in the air.
Anne: Okay, and last question. What’s the family dynamic now with this experience?
Mr. Ferrell: Because I sing too, we have this little joke. I would always tell him, “Don’t
forget, I’m a better singer.” And so when he first went to Broadway, he was like, I guess I’m the better singer now. We have this volley back and forth about that, but he’s probably the better singer.
Anne: That is sweet! Thank you so much for this interview! I know the Pace students will be excited to vote for him when we can!
Mr. Ferrell: Thank you! I am excited to share this with Pace and him!
Photo: Pace Academy
Max Chambers’ official poster for The Voice.
Photo: Mr. Ferrell
Children in the Keeping Pace program play outside
Jimmy Kimmel’s Suspension and Return Sparks Controversy
On Sept. 17, talk show host Jimmy Kimmel’s show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, was suspended by ABC. The suspension occurred after Kimmel made a joke on air about the reactions of Trump and his supporters to podcaster Charlie Kirk’s death. Kimmel poked fun at Trump’s constant redirection of press questions about Kirk to statements about White House renovations, and at attempts by Trump supporters to gain political capital because of Kirk’s death. However, some interpreted this segment of the show as being disrespectful about the death itself.
After pressure from the Federal Communications Commission- a government institution that operates regarding communications- to suspend Jimmy
Kimmel’s show due to this segment, ABC issued an indefinite suspension of the show.
However, this suspension lasted only six days, until Sept. 22, due to significant public pushback. Due to the interfer-
ence of the FCC in this matter, many citizens feared the integrity of the First Amendment in this case. As there was federal interference in the suspension of this show due to statements that the government did not agree
with or support, as opposed to a suspension decision made solely by a private media network, first amendment rights were called into question. The decision sparked mass public outrage, culminating in Kimmel’s return
to the network on Sept. 23. Kimmel returned with an apology and assurance that his intention was not to make light of a death. This was followed by an extended monologue which suggested Kimmel’s perspective of the role of the first amendment in this circumstance.
Kimmel said, “The statement and monologue generally iterated the importance of media not being regulated by the government on a wide scale.”
Despite the end of Kimmel’s suspension, as a result of the controversy, according to PBS, some stations, including Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group, have refused to play Jimmy Kimmel Live! in the future.
Despite the brevity of the suspension, it had resounding effects on the public’s belief in the security of the First Amendment, leaving many questioning the future of freedom of speech in America.
Discussing Charlie Kirk; The Rising Political Violence in A merica
On Sept. 10, 2025, the conservative political activist Charlie Kirk was murdered on the campus of Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Charlie Kirk was the founder and CEO of Turning Point USA (TPUSA), an organization dedicated to “educating young people about the importance of limited government, free markets and freedom.” Kirk started his mission in 2012 when he first started working on TPUSA. As his organization continued to grow, Kirk expanded the program, adding on TPUSA Faith and Education, focusing on uniting Christian Americans and incorporating Christian teachings in the education of children. Kirk is most famous for his debates with students on college campuses, discussing topics such as immigration, abortion, Christianity and upcoming elections. Charlie Kirk had a large influence over young adults in the US; these debates being one of the key factors that helped him achieve his goal of informing high school and college students. Videos of these conversations were posted all over the internet, and social media platforms played a huge role in the spread of Kirk’s thoughts on widely debated topics. Kirk also had his own radio show and podcast, called “The Charlie Kirk Show,” where he hosted political figures and other activists to talk about ongoing issues. Because of his work with younger voters, Kirk is said to have played a pivotal role in the most recent presidential election, even building key
parts of the Trump administration, like JD Vance. On the day of his assassination, Charlie Kirk was debating students attending Utah Valley University, and when someone had just asked a question, Kirk was shot from approximately 142 yards away. 22-year-old Tyler Robinson was arrested the day after the shooting and is the top suspect for the assassination.
The reactions to Charlie Kirk’s murder were instant, with top politicians on both sides of the political spectrum sending condolences to his wife and family, while also condemning the broader political violence. People all over the nation took
to social media to express their support for Kirk and his movement. After his widow, Erica Kirk, spoke out about his death, Turning Point USA received a record-high 18,000 new chapter requests in less than 24 hours, combined with $5 million dollars raised for Erica and their two kids . On the contrary, some people disagree with the media coverage of Kirk and believe the media to be glorifying Kirk by underrepresenting his controversial views on topics such as abortion and gun control. Most recently, Jimmy Kimmel has been in the news after he was suspended by ABC for six days because of his comments about
Charlie Kirk’s death and the President’s reaction to it. Both President Trump and Vice President Vance, along with members of their administration, attended and spoke at Charlie’s memorial service on September 21.
Charlie Kirk’s assassination is the most recent incident in a long line of political violence in this country. Just this past June, Melissa Hortman, a congresswoman for the state of Minnesota, along with her husband and dog, was killed in their home.
The Hortmans left behind their two kids, Sophie and Colin, who promised to keep their parents’ legacy alive through acts of advocacy. The police then found
a “hit list” in the suspect, Vance Boetler’s car, full of Minnesota lawmakers’ names. Boelter is also accused of shooting Senator John Hoffman, his wife, and his daughter, all of whom luckily survived. Even in April of their year, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s home was firebombed while he and his family were inside. Political violence is not foreign to this country, as seen with the assassination of JFK and MLK Jr. in the 60s. However, in the past ten years, there has been a drastic uptick in shootings, arsons and other physical attacks against current and former senators, lawmakers and even presidents.
Charlie Kirk speaks at a Turning Point USA conference.
Photo: Rolling Stone
Jimmy Kimmel issues a heartfelt monologue upon return after suspension.
Photo: Los Angeles Times
Shaky Knees has Another Successful Festival
Every September, the Shaky Knees music festival, occurs in Atlanta. The annual festival typically draws crowds of around 40,000 people and lasts three days. Previously, the festival had taken place in multiple parks in Atlanta, most recently in Central Park Atlanta. This year, Shaky Knees took place in Piedmont Park.
Bands and singers that play at the festival are typically in the rock genre, and vary in popularity. Previous well-known artists that have played at the festival include The Lumineers, The Strokes, Tame Impala, Foo Fighters and Green Day.
This year, many were drawn to the festival by its headlin-
ers- Deftones, My Chemical Romance and Blink-182. Other popular artists present included Lenny Kravitz, Sublime, Cage the Elephant, The Black Keys, Vampire Weekend and Alabama Shakes, many of which were followed by sets by lesser-known artists. Friday and Saturday tickets of the festival were sold out entirely, while few tickets were still available for Sunday.
Many attend the festival, not only due to its various famous headliners, but also because the nature of the festival allows for sets to be less formal than concerts, and as a result, fans can feel like they get to know the bands and singers more intimately. According to Yahoo!News, the festival attracts so many crowds that businesses in areas around the park have noted an uptick in business during festival dates.
Although a number of visi-
tors came to Atlanta solely for the festival, many locals and Pace students were also in attendance. Senior Teah Charkawi attended a day of the festival. She said, “Shaky Knees was amazing. I went on Friday, and the best part was definitely the Deftones set. I made my way up to the front of the barricade, and had a blast. I witnessed a fight take place, but overall, it was a very relaxed set. There wasn’t too much shoving, and there was great music.”
Despite the crowds the festival is infamous for, many who attended found that Shaky Knees was largely well organized, had efficient lines, and had essential amenities readily available.
Many are already looking forward to next year’s Shaky Knees music festival, and fans are eagerly anticipating the release of the festival’s line-up.
Pace students pose at a set at Shaky Knees.
The Knightly News
966 West Paces Ferry Road, NW Atlanta, Georgia 30327 (404) 262-1345
knightlynews@paceacademy.org
Published by students at Pace Academy
Member of Georgia Scholastic Press Association
Co-Editors-in-Chief: Anne Weiss Grant Chase Hayes Pollard
Multi Media Editor: Bennett Cummings
Copy Editor: Jiya Patel
Managing Editor: Campbell Hanna
Pace News Editor: Molly Luber
Current Affairs and Opinion Editor: Vivian Gerber
Lifestyle Editor: Claire Jowers
Sports Editor: Kennon DeFrancis
Layout Editor: Stiles Pilcher
Web Content Editor: Madeline Ganz
Staff Writers: Kiel Culpepper
Harper Doheny
Ashley Hua
Charlie Partin
Henry Sukenik
Leah Tesema
Katie Wrigley
Faculty Adviser: Mrs. Tamara Neiley
Tech Adviser: Matt Walker
The Knightly News Editorial Policy
The Knightly News is the student-run newspaper of Pace Academy. For 50 years it has reported the news that affects Pace, as well as the opinions of students.
The Knightly News is published by the students of Pace Academy, and approximately 500 copies are printed by School Publications Company.
The Knightly News welcomes letters to the editor and
guest opinions, which may be edited for spelling and grammar, as well as space constraints. Neither Knightly News-generated opinion pieces nor guest opinions are reflective of the official policy of Pace Academy. Every effort is made to publish accurate facts, but if you recognize an error or omission, please email knightlynews@ paceacademy.org.
Supporting Atlanta Charities: How We Can Make a Difference
With government funding streams becoming less reliable, charities are increasingly dependent on individual support to continue their vital work. Across Atlanta, several organizations are dedicated to helping children, families and animals, providing opportunities for Pace to make meaningful contributions to the broader community.
One organization making a significant impact is the Atlanta Community Food Bank (ACFB), which addresses the food insecurity crisis in metro Atlanta. The organization provides meals and groceries to families and individuals in need, in addition to federal services such as SNAP and local food centers. Many support ACFB by volunteering to sort and pack donations, hosting food drives, or, most efficiently, donating. “My family is on a current donation cycle with them. Money helps the most because food and cans may perish, or there might be an unnecessary surplus. Additionally, giving to
a food bank is a way that we ensure that our donations get to the kind of resources that actually help people facing homelessness,” explained English teacher Ms. Conroy.
Beyond food insecurity, other organizations address different community needs in Atlanta. For example, many young mothers struggle to support their children amidst rising life expenses. Helping Mamas Atlanta addresses this issue by providing essential items to mothers and children in need. These include diapers, wipes, menstrual products, and hygiene supplies. This organization sheds light on the financial hardships many mothers face in today’s economy. With limited social support for mothers across the United States, charities like Helping Mamas and communitybased aid networks serve as vital lifelines. The combined pressures of motherhood and rising expenses can easily trap families in cycles of poverty, making community support not just helpful, but essential.
Similarly, animal welfare is addressed by Fur Kids Atlanta, Georgia’s largest “no kill” animal shelter and rescue organiza-
tion. Fur Kids provides medical care, safe environments, and training for animals with diverse needs. Supporters can volunteer as caretakers, foster animals, donate, or attend events organized by the charity to ensure that animals receive the care they deserve. The organization not only saves animals but also promotes empathy and responsibility within the community. By connecting people with animals in need, Fur Kids builds a stronger, more compassionate Atlanta where care and kindness extend beyond human struggles.
Now more than ever, helping local charities is essential. “It’s never been more important to support local charities when federal funding has been slashed so quickly and dramatically. Many of these organizations–just like Pace Academy or any successful business– make medium and long-term plans and contracts. Continuing their work and fulfilling their important missions depends on gifts from regular people, especially during uncertainty and instability,” emphasized History teacher Dr. Carter. When the government is unable or unwilling to provide necessary support, mutual aid
A roadmap of Atlanta highlighting landmarks.
and community involvement are our strongest tools for creating positive change. By volunteering, donating, or simply spreading awareness, each of us can contribute to building a stronger, more compassionate Atlanta.
Whether helping families put food on the table, supporting mothers in need, or rescuing animals, every act of generosity strengthens Atlanta’s community and reminds us that compassion is a shared responsibility.
Photo: Ethan Holmes
Photo: Etsy
The Phenomenon of Performative Males Drives Matcha
The internet sensation of the performative male has circulated the internet, inspiring others to join their lifestyle. You may have seen images of people using wired headphones listening to indie music, wearing baggy jeans, or their most iconic staple, matcha. Matcha popularity has skyrocketed over the last few months due to this internet phenomenon. This green tea can be found all over the world, including right here in Atlanta. If you have fallen victim to the performative male lifestyle and want to try matcha, here are the best matchas in Atlanta: Foxtail Coffee, Dancing Goats Coffee Bar, Mend Coffee, The Chastain, and The Postcard.
Foxtail Coffee offers a matcha latte starting at $5.30,
making it one of the cheapest matchas in Atlanta for the bigger-sized cup you receive. They provide various add-ins, such as syrups and cold foam. The matcha is less green in color, yet it is one of the most flavorful matchas in Atlanta. The matcha and syrup flavors are very prominent without the grassy taste. Foxtail offers the most amount of diversity in its menu, with many food and drink options, and a good restaurant environment.
We then tried Dancing Goats, located near the Trader Joe’s in Buckhead. Like Foxtail, they serve a variety of syrups and purees in their matchas. Here we tried their iced matcha with strawberry puree. While the strawberry flavor was delicious, we were disappointed by the actual matcha itself. The drink lacked flavor and was grainer than the other matchas we reviewed. The color was a more muted green and was on the pricier side.
Near Dancing Goats is another matcha cafe, The Postcard. The Postcard specializes in matcha, and many of their customers came to try their elaborate fla-
vors. After a conversation with the barista, we ordered their signature matcha with strawberry rose flavoring. This matcha was a beautiful green color layered with strawberry and rose puree. The matcha itself was very tasty; it was smooth, and you could taste the tea without an overpowering taste of grass. Along with the matcha itself, the syrups and puree were very prominent. I was surprised by how well we could taste the rose flavor, something I did not know could be a flavor. While delicious, it was on the pricey side, costing around 10 dollars; however, it is a great place to splurge on a rich treat after a long day.
The Chastian, in Chastain Park, offers the best environment of all the coffee shops in Atlanta. The food and drinks have a very high reputation, but there is always a line due to the high demand. The wait time during the weekend is about 20 minutes before ordering. The matcha costs 6 dollars for their seasonal apple and caramel matcha. “I would not recommend the apple and caramel matcha from Chastain because it is watered down and tastes more like a chai latte,”
said junior Ella Reagan Roth. “But I’ve had the vanilla matcha and it is much better.” Overall, the seasonal matcha was not our favorite, but many of the other food and drink options are well liked.
Lastly, Mend Coffee and Goods offers a fresh and innovative experience where they make an effort to create an inclusive and fun environment for the physically disabled community. The restaurant environment is unique as it is centered around their mission. Their matcha
costs 5-7 dollars, depending on the size. Junior Ella Reagan Roth says that Mend matcha is her favorite in Atlanta. “I love Mend’s use of natural flavoring and their efforts to work with the disability community,” said Ella Reagan. Mend’s matcha is on the sweeter side, so this will be a good recommendation to those with a sweet tooth. Matcha’s popularity has grown over the past few months, and Atlanta has great options for this popular drink.
Atlanta Gearing Up for the Halloween Season
As the Halloween season starts to begin, friend groups are planning costumes and events to attend to on Halloween night. Not only are students at Pace hosting parties, but there are also events happening around the Atlanta area that would make great places to take pictures and have an exciting time.
Fright Fest:
Fright Fest is a thrilling experience that is happening in Six Flags, with available dates all throughout October. There are many haunted houses and also mazes; two new ones coming out this year are inspired by the Conjuring Universe and Twisted Pictures’ Saw. This year also features fan favorites such as Carnival of Chaos, Nyctophobia and more.
Along with these, Fright Fest has six scare zones this year, with four of them being new! Some include Necropolis, Festival of Fright and Disciples
of the Beast. They offer a scary but exhilarating experience, and you’ll never know when or what will try to jump out at you. And there’s even more!
Fright Fest has Halloween inspired rides, various types of food and drinks and live shows,
ensuring that people of all ages have a memorable holiday.
Netherworld Haunted House:
Located in Stone Mountain, Netherworld Haunted House has consistently been ranked one of the best, most popular and most innovative haunted houses in all of the United States. There are live actors, special sounds and effects and monsters to bring the scary movies you see on TV to life. This year’s themes are Monsters Attack and Oblivion: Return of the Mangler. With new monsters that are both bigger and louder, Netherworld Haunted House ensures you and your friends have a scary but adrenaline-boosting time. This attraction is not for the faint of heart, but is perfect for those who enjoy immersive experiences!
also classic activities. Some are the skyride, which gives families an awing view of the mountain, and the scenic railroad. There are many daytime attractions, and for the nighttime, there are glow in the dark lights and pumpkin drone shows, further elevated by a beautiful view from the peak of Stone Mountain. You can enjoy various seasonal food and drink options from different food trucks, vendors and dining spots around the park.
Nightmare’s Gate Haunted House:
Known for its terrifying haunts, Nightmare’s Gate Haunted House is located just outside of Atlanta in Douglasville, Georgia. However, its three different Haunted Houses in one location make it special. This year, the three are Apokalipto, Delusional
The Postcard offers many varieties of Matcha, including this colorful signature drink.
Photo: Molly Luber
Stone Mountain’s Festival: Stone Mountain Park provides a family-friendly fall festival with shows, pie eating contests and fall decorations that are perfect for photos. Not only are there fall and halloween additions to the park, but there are
Descent and Longview Estate. Each features a different setting, ranging from a haunted ancient Aztec temple, erratic dreams or even an abandoned mansion. Pick the one that best suits your preferences, or better yet, all three!
Pumpkins and decorative lights shine bright as Stone Mountain’s Pumpkin Festival.
Photo: Stone Mountain
Photo: Six Flags
Monsters at Fright Fest ready to jump out at people who pass by.
Photo: Adventures in Georgia
Netherworld Haunted House has dark surroundings and colored lights to make for an immersive experience.
Is Your Brain Healthy?
Our brain handles everything, thinking, remembering, feeling, moving but it’s probably more vulnerable than we’d guess. Tucked inside our skull are roughly 86 billion neurons firing messages back and forth using chemicals like dopamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine. What’s wild is that these connections aren’t permanent. Our brain constantly reshapes itself when we pick up new skills or adjust to change. That’s called neuroplasticity.
Our brain only weighs about 2% of our body but burns through 20% of our energy, mostly glucose and oxygen. Blood flow matters. Sleep matters even more. During deep sleep, a cleanup system called the glymphatic system washes out beta-amyloid, a protein that leads to Alzheimer’s.
Similarly, stress and anxiety hurt our brains. Constant stress floods our system with cortisol, literally shrinking our hippocampus, the memory center. Through ongoing inflammation from poor eating or lifestyle choices, we’re accelerating aging and raising our odds of cognitive decline and dementia later.
So what actually works? Exercise is big. Thirty minutes daily, walking, running, biking, lifting, whatever gets us moving, increases blood flow, delivers oxygen and triggers new neuron growth. Exercise strengthens our body and our memory simultaneously.
Food plays a major role. Omega-3s from fish, flaxseeds and walnuts keeps brain cells flexible and strong. Berries and leafy greens also fight oxidative damage. Whole grains provide steady energy, unlike sugary food and white bread, which cause spikes and subsequent crashes in energy. Lastly, water keeps signals traveling smoothly between neurons.
Sleep is non-negotiable. The brain repairs itself overnight, cements memories, and flushes toxins. Seven to nine hours of sleep with a consistent schedule lets our brain operate at full capacity. Mental stimulation matters just as much. Our brain strengthens with use. Reading, learning languages, solving puzzles, and playing strategy games all keep neural pathways active and growing.
Managing stress protects our memory and focus because chronic cortisol exposure wrecks both. Meditation, journaling, deep breathing and time outside bring cortisol down and shield our brain from short and
long-term memory loss. Social connection reinforces cognitive health too. Real conversations, meaningful friendships and community involvement lower depression and dementia risk.
Protect our brains from physical harm by wearing
helmets when needed, avoiding harmful substances and keeping our blood pressure and blood sugar in healthy ranges.
Brain health is not one perfect habit. It’s consistency across multiple areas, moving regularly, eating intentionally, sleeping
well, challenging ourselves mentally, controlling stress, connecting with others and protecting what we have. Do that and for a sharper and more resilient brain, ready for whatever comes next.
Is Clash Royale Harmful for Students?
First released in 2016, Clash Royale has become an increasingly popular mobile game. In the game, players compete online in head versus head matches. There are clans in the game which allow for players to partner up and even play against their friends. Recently, the Clash Royale Club has launched at Pace which brings together a group of players. The game, however, is not just popular amongst the Pace community, averaging 44.7 million monthly players according to ActivePlayer.io.
With its increasing popularity, specifically in the high school age range, Clash Royale has become addictive for Pace students. As many of them are constantly on their phone, the social atmosphere during free periods and breaks can feel empty with a lack of communication. Students without the app are finding themselves feeling left out if they don’t have the app with a lack of friends not constantly on their phones. In addition to taking away social time at school, some students are even sometimes late to classes because they are finishing a game. The game itself is free,
however many students are making in-app purchases costing them a significant amount of money. Sleep schedules are also being impacted by the app, because its addictiveness travels to the in-home environment causing students to stay up playing the game. Ultimately, the goal of the game is to earn as many trophies as possible, being a superficial reward while costing students significant amounts of time and sometimes money. “I think the whole idea of the game is just pointless,” said Senior Brooks Gerhard. Overall, the
game has swept the nation, and has had negative effects on many teens including those in the Pace community through worsening social skills, wasting time and money and reducing sleep and focus.
Clash Royale is not harmful to Pace students for a multitude of reasons. The app, rather than creating a dead social atmosphere, brings people together who may not have had similar interests to begin with. This common ground can create new friendships that may have been overlooked previously.
Not Harmful
“Clash Royale provides unity to the Pace community through the Clash Royale Club. The Clash Royale Club is a uniting community that accepts all people,” said sophomore Jack Defrancis. Also, no one should be left out for not having the app, as it is completely free to download and play. One could also argue that Clash Royale is beneficial in improving critical thinking skills, as it forces players to make real-time decisions during gameplay. Along with developing critical thinking skills, the game also fosters a
competitive mindset, which can translate to positive habits such as persistence. The app also allows some players to relieve stress by entertaining them, and shifting their mind off the subject that causes them anxiety.
Overall, Clash Royale is more beneficial than harmful to Pace students as the game can foster friendships, create critical thinking skills, develop a competitive mindset and alleviate anxiety and stress.
Senior Jake Haggman intently focuses on his schoolwork.
Photo: Hayes Pollard
Photo: Grant Chase
Juniors Mason Hade and Will Whipple play Clash Royale in the Commons.
Pace’s Favorite Fall Traditions Are Back
Fall at Pace is always a treat with our school’s classic, funfilled fall traditions. This year, students have already enjoyed the Homecoming festivities, including the Pep Rally, the Homecoming Court, the football game, and of course the dance. The fun begins with the Monday of Homecoming week: Pajama Day. Each day of the week leading up to Homecoming features a different theme that the Upper School students dress up for, and many students go all out. Then, on Friday morning comes the Pep Rally, which not only
gets everybody hyped up, but also honors the Senior athletes involved in fall sports. The Homecoming Pep Rally brings the entire school together, as the Lower, Middle, and Upper School all participate in the excitement in the Inman Gym. In the afternoon, the Upper School enjoys its annual Color Wars Day, where the students are divided into color-coded teams and play games in competition against each other. Color Wars is a great way to foster new friendships, bond with classmates and let loose after the first month of school. Finally, Friday wraps up with the Homecoming football game. For the last few years, Pace has played Martin Luther King Jr. High School at Riverview for the Homecoming game. Each year, the Senior class gets to design the shirts that the Upper School student section wears at the game. The shirts are themed corresponding to Knights of the Round Table’s theme for the game, so students can dress up in the theme however they like. This year, the Lower School was encouraged to attend the football game, so Pace players got to enjoy support from their entire school. The 2025 Homecoming game also featured a light show during half time, depicting the history of Pace up in the night sky. The
Homecoming football game, and home games in general, truly bring the Pace community together as we cheer on the boys from the stands. For the Upper School, the fun doesn’t end there. High school students enjoy the last hurrah of Homecoming on Saturday night, the Homecoming dance. With a DJ, snacks and drinks, and all their friends, the students couldn’t ask for anything better. At the Homecoming dance, the Upper School’s voted Homecoming Court is presented above the Gardens, and the Homecoming Royals are revealed. The whole affair is purely a chance to connect with friends and peers, and even the gracious teachers who volunteer to chaperone the dance. When asked what their favorite fall tradition at Pace is, several members of the Pace community mentioned the Homecoming activities. “My favorite fall tradition is the Homecoming Pep Rally because it’s a really sweet and special tradition that brings the whole school together. As a teacher, I love getting to see the Lower School come and remember when my kids were that little. It’s also the first time in the school year that everybody gets to let loose and have fun,” said Dr. Katie Moss, one of Pace’s beloved English teachers. “My favorite fall tradition
is Homecoming Court,” said Will Paulowsky, a tenth grade representative in the Court. The Pace community also loves the holidays that Pace celebrates, such as Divali, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and other celebrations to appreciate the cultural diversity at our school. “I love the fact that we celebrate the Jewish holidays, specifically the Jewish New Year, because I always celebrate it with my former Jewish students,” said Ms. Helen Smith. “My favorite tradition is when we celebrate Divali,” said Middle School history teacher Mr. Scott Shupe. Students and teachers alike get excited for Halloween, as Pace does a great job of making Halloween day at school an enjoyable time. Halloween day in the Upper School features the annual costume contest in the FAC, the Library’s trademark holiday festivities, and some teachers even put their own spooky touch on the curriculum for the day. Mr. Bailey Player, for example, gives his AP American Literature class a month of spooky-themed poems to analyze for the month of October. “My favorite fall tradition has got to be when everyone dresses up for the costume contest on Halloween,” said Senior Bobby Hanna. “My favorite fall tradition in the library is that we work really hard to have a super
scary bulletin board display, and we also always have a contest of some sort. Students should get excited because ideas for the display and the contest are already brewing in my head,” said Head Upper School Librarian Mr. Matt Ball. Last but definitely not least, the greater Pace community - students, families, faculty and staff - all get to enjoy the Pace Academy Fall Fair! The Fall Fair has always been the highlight of the fall season at Pace, as the Lower School, and volunteers from the Middle and Upper Schools work together to make the fair a spectacular time. The 2025 Fall Fair, titled “In Our Element”, was themed for the four elements of earth, wind, water and fire to show appreciation for the natural world Pace thrives in. This year, the Fall Fair took place on October 18th and featured nostalgic activities like the Box Maze, classic rides like the Swing Carousel, and trademark Pace fun like the Pace Jail and the Candy Castle. “My favorite fall tradition at Pace is the Fall Fair,” said Middle School student Sarah Irvanian. Pace has had a great fall so far, and the students are looking forward to even more seasonal festivities throughout the year, but for now, Happy Halloween!
Shop Local at Peachtree Road Farmers Market
Due to convenience, people often shop at chain grocery stores like Publix, Trader Joes, or Whole Foods. However, in addition to these stores, farmers’ markets are displayed all across the country. Visiting and buying from a farmers’ market is a great way to support local businesses, spend quality time outside with friends and family, and enjoy delicious food. With this in mind, the Knightly News wanted to highlight a particular farmers’ market in Atlanta, one where many members of the Pace Community go to shop. The Peachtree Road Farmers Market takes place every Saturday from 8:30 to 12:00 p.m. Located in the parking lot of The Cathedral of St. Philip, over 100 vendors set up shop for the morning. At the market, one can always find families, dogs, and a group of you kids playing and dancing to live music. The market often hosts live musicians of varying genres and ages. Not only does the market have stands for food and vegetables, but also for jewelry, clothing and the occasional dermatologist.
A favorite of this farmers’
market is Crepe Masters! Everyone who goes to the Peachtree Road Farmers market knows to get a delicious Crepe from this stand. The menu ranges from sweet crepes to savory crepes and lots of ways to make them your own. The line is quick, and the staff is always willing to help make your experience as easy and tasty as possible. Senior Ashley York said, “Whenever I go to the farmers market, I make sure to stop and get a crepe for breakfast! They are always amazing, but my go-to is the classic bacon, egg and cheese!”
This Atlanta business has been around since 2007, and they even cater events!
The Chai Box is a great stand at Peachtree Road Farmers Market. If you are not in the mood for coffee but need a caffeine kick, make sure to stop by and grab a Chai Latte. The Chai Box not only sells lattes at the market, but you are also able to buy Chai concentrate to make lattes at home. They have varying options of sweetness and blend too! This local business makes all of its own chai and was started by an Indian family in Atlanta to spread their culture and tradition of family time while drinking Chai. The Chai Box is locally grown and partners with Compost Now to compost all of their waste and stay environmentally sustainable.
Another delicious stand enjoyed by many is Flaky not Not Flaky Bake Shoppe and Chocolatarium. This stand is
known for its original pastry, the sconut, a mix between a scone and a donut. Flavors of this include, original glazed, chocolate, and apple pie. “It is my favorite breakfast treat, it’s always served warm and I look forward to their seasonal flavors!” Said junior Sophie Flynn.
The Daily Chew is a cafe and serves food inspired by its founders’ South African and Jewish roots. The Daily Chew is a woman owned and female operated small business established in Atlanta. Owner Julia Kesler Imerman, was born in Atlanta and learned her cooking skills from her grandmother. At the Daily Chew, they serve a wide variety of food from breakfast and coffee to salads and shakshuka. One can always see and smell the delicious shakshuka being made fresh on a cast iron skillet. Additionally they serve muffins, cookies, and cakes.
Tucked in the far right corner is the booth for The General Muir Bread. Always crowded with a long line, TGM serves a variety of breads and baked goods. The company originally started as a supplier of baked goods for the General Muir but due to its high demand and deliciousness it became an individual restaurant. A fan favorite of the products they make include bagels, pretzels, and hearty soups.
Evolve Botanica is a skincare and candles stand that is at the farmers’ market every single Saturday. This sustainable brand
sells soaps, bath bombs, candles, balms, serums, and so much more. Evolve works to combine plant-based products with modern chemistry and uses no harmful chemicals or additives in any of its products. Their natural soaps and products have a range of scents from peaches to teakwood. Buying soaps and candles from EVolve rather than Bath and Body Works or Anthropology is a great way to shop sustainably and to support a local business, not to mention
the benefits of natural products! Mary George Art sells her paintings at the farmers’ market and works to paint based on the positivity of nature. Painting is a side gig for this Atlanta mom. She paints for joy and inspiration, which her pieces so obviously express. Mary George Art paints hearts, flowers and other natural scenes in vibrant greens, pinks and blues. Her pieces are beautiful and would be great for dorm rooms!
Photo: Ashley York
Senior Ashley York and freshman twins Kate and Isabelle York pose with paintings bought at the Peachtree Battle Farmers Market.
Ms. Barbakow celebrates Halloween with her daughter in the Lower School.
Photo: Fred Assaf
Debating the Morality of AI
AI is a Power for Good
Almost every major invention was once seen as a threat, from vaccines to the printing press and the internet. It seems like for this era, the feared invention is AI, especially its role in the education system. Some argue it makes students lazy or incompetent, and those concerns aren’t baseless. Like any powerful tool, AI can be misused. Students might take shortcuts, plagiarize, or spread misinformation. However, history has shown that tools are not solely threats but catalysts for growth. Just as past generations learned
In November of 2022, OpenAI publicized its hit chatbot that caught the eyes of millions, ChatGPT. Since its introduction in 2022, ChatGPT, as well as other ever-growing AI platforms, have become an integral part of modern society, and recently an integral part of many schools and places of education. The implementation of AI in schools has sparked a lively debate among academics and students alike on whether or not AI has a place in the education system. As more and more experts share their opinions on AI and its effects, one message becomes clear: Pace Academy should ban AI for its students.
to adapt and thrive with new technology, our generation must do the same. If Pace chooses to ban AI, they risk repeating the mistakes of the past by resisting change instead of harnessing it.
For starters, AI transforms the way students learn by adapting lessons to their individual needs. Many students find the Pace curriculum challenging, and AI can break down concepts, offer explanations, and provide examples tailored to each learning style. “Pace should use AI because it could help elevate our learning instead of just using the traditional onesize-fits-all lesson. AI can adapt and change to fit each student’s needs, and everyone can grow at their own pace,” said junior Aznariah Bienne. With AI, students gain extra guidance beyond classroom teaching,
Artificial Intelligence offers a new source to students that gives them seemingly limitless possibilities of new information at their fingertips, but all this information comes at a cost. AI sources are not always the most reliable, as they often adapt their response based on the context of the question asked, and often don’t perceive the question properly. The responses from AI sources like ChatGPT are likely to change because these tools are constantly learning. In turn, AI can spread false information, which is extremely dangerous in schools. In fact, a study from Purdue University found that around 52% of responses from ChatGPT contain inaccurate information. In a place of learning, the spread of misinformation directly undermines the establishment’s goals.
Not only does AI pose shortterm problems in schools, such as spreading misinformation and assisting cheating, but it also
helping them grasp ideas faster and more deeply.
Not only does AI enhance learning for individuals, but it also has the potential to make education more equitable. Some Pace students may lack access to extra resources, private tutors, or advanced technology at home. This imbalance hinders students who struggle with in-class teaching styles. However, AI can close this gap with its ability to personally assist. A student who might not afford a tutor could still receive detailed feedback, extra practice, or new approaches to solving problems through AI-powered tools. In this way, AI becomes a bridge toward equal opportunity, ensuring that success in education is not determined solely by privilege or background.
Beyond the classroom, AI
also prepares students for the future, where technology will dominate. Many workplaces already increasingly rely on AI tools for data analysis, research, and problem-solving. Future careers will demand familiarity with these tools, and Pace students denied exposure risk falling behind. Banning AI may feel protective, but it limits students’ readiness for the future. Of course, preparing students for the future doesn’t just mean teaching technical skills. It also means teaching discernment: how to recognize misinformation, avoid over reliance, and use AI with integrity. In short, it is far better to learn how to utilize powerful tools wisely than to fear them.
Ultimately, AI should be seen as an academic tool rather than a threat. When students
poses many long-term problems for brain stimulation and development. Recent studies from a collaborative research project by MIT show that students who wrote essays with the assistance of AI exhibit much less brain activity during the task, which makes memory recall on the subject more difficult in the future. Those who wrote their essays without the use of AI had a much easier time remembering the information they studied and wrote. An increased use of
AI in schools might suggest a lessening reliance on memorization and a stronger need among students for assistance in writing realms where assistance was not necessary before.
Pace Academy History teacher, Mrs. Lawrence, shared that while she doesn’t believe AI should be banned at Pace, “Students don’t know how to use the tool properly, effectively, or ethically enough for the tools to be deemed beneficial. To implement proper usage of AI at Pace,
are taught to use it ethically, AI enhances learning, prepares them for the future, and provides support tailored to individual needs. But for this to happen, it is imperative that Pace teaches students how to properly use AI. “School is where students can and should learn how to use this new and powerful tool with deep understanding, wise discernment, and meaningful first-hand experience,” said history teacher Dr. Carter. Personally, I believe AI is not inherently good or bad; rather, it’s neutral and shaped by how humans choose to use it. By allowing AI at Pace, students are provided with opportunities to learn, grow, and prepare for the challenges of tomorrow. To ban AI is to hold back progress; to embrace it is to unlock innovation, equity, and success for every student.
students would need proper training with AI,” said Mrs. Lawrence. Lawrence also added that she understands many of the benefits of AI and does not want them to go unrecognized. While the benefits of AI are numerous in theory, what’s important to note is that high school students are not yet responsible enough to understand the capabilities of AI properly. “I feel like when I use AI to review material before an assessment, it’s not always accurate, and because of that, I’ve decided to stop using it as much,” said sophomore Emma Alvarez. So, although it is optimistic to believe in all the good AI has to offer, it is not yet fit to be a constant in high school classrooms as it limits independent learning, making students more dependent on outside resources instead of learning material themselves, and many of its benefits are not implemented properly.
Let Students Sleep: Rethinking Free Periods at Pace
At Pace, students balance a challenging workload, demanding extracurriculars and busy schedules that often extend late into the evening. Due to this, most students look forward to their morning free periods, but even more students wish that they had the opportunity to sleep in.
The recommended amount of sleep for high school students is between 8-10 hours according to the National Sleep Foundation, yet for most Pace students, this is an unattainable goal. Nights often stretch late with hours of homework, studying, practices and rehearsals. As a result, many students show up to class exhausted and unable to fully focus on their academics.
National experts have weighed in on this problem as well. The American Academy
of Pediatrics has recommended that middle schools and high schools start no earlier than 8:30 a.m. to allow students the necessary rest. Pace, however, has yet to adjust its start time. While a full schedule change may be unrealistic, giving students the option to come in late
on days when they have a free first period could be a meaningful step in the right direction. Even just once a week, that extra hour of rest would give students the chance to reset and recharge. This recharge would be an amazing opportunity, and many students agree. “Sleeping
in would be so nice just to catch up on the missed sleep from the week,” said sophomore Owen Peretz.
“Everyone is so stressed out from the intense academics at peace, it would be really nice to get a free period to sleep in,” said junior Avery Gunn. While some may argue that many students already sleep in and simply have their parents email the school, for the students who consistently show up at 8:00, giving them a formal opportunity to arrive later would make a big difference. It would remove the stress of needing parental approval and instead recognize sleeping in as a legitimate way to use a free period. This would help level the playing field so that all students, not just those with flexible parents, can benefit from extra rest.
“Most, if not all, students at Pace have an extracurricular, so we’re all pretty busy. That means sometimes you end up having work really late at night and I think if you had the opportunity
to come in late, letting you sleep in, it would be really nice,” said Senior Dylan Nelson. The opportunity to sleep in would allow students to perform better in class and approach the day with more enthusiasm. It also allows students to feel heard by the administration at Pace, letting them know that their problems matter to their deans and teachers, who sometimes feel so far removed.
Ultimately, allowing students to arrive late during their free periods is a small adjustment that could have a big impact. By giving students the chance to rest, Pace would be supporting their health, their academics and their overall well-being. More importantly, it would show that the school is listening to the voices of its students and responding to their real needs. Pace has always emphasized balance, excellence and preparing students for the future; granting this flexibility would be another step toward living out those values.
Photo: Campbell Hanna
Photo: ChatGPT
Junior Eloise McDonald falls asleep in the library after not sleeping last night.
The official logo of ChatGPT.
The Rise of AI Limits Independent Learning
Sinner and Alcaraz: Could They Be The Next Big 2?
For the last two decades in professional tennis, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic have been known as the Big 3. Sharing a total of 66 Grand Slam titles, the game of tennis has been dominated by these three players from 2003 to 2024. Having some of the most famous matches in tennis history, they achieved title after title, combining to set the record for the longest number of weeks at world number one (947 weeks in total). However, in the last few years, the reign of the Big 3 has slowly declined. Federer retired in September of 2022, after his loss with Nadal in the final doubles match in the Laver Cup. After suffering from multiple injuries, Nadal retired in November of 2024. Djokovic, however, is the only one still fighting. He currently has the all time record for most weeks at number one (428 weeks),
and the most Grand Slams won (24). Even though he has made remarkable feats in tennis and still continues to perform at a great level, Djokovic has recently faced two players that have kept him from winning his 25th Grand Slam. Those players are Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. At the young ages of 17 and 15, Sinner and Alcaraz
went pro in 2018, and ever since then, they’ve been working their way to the top. The two had their first match against each other in 2019, and it was clear that their ages were not going to stop them from competing against the best players in the world. Sinner and Alcaraz have played each other a total of 15 times, where Alcaraz leads the head to head
10-5. Normally this wouldn’t be anything out of the ordinary, however, the matches between Alcaraz and Sinner have been full out battles, most resulting in four to five set, three to five hour matches, where the players have produced some of the best tennis seen in a long time. The two have met most recently in the finals of three out of four Grand
Slams held in 2025, with Alcaraz winning both Roland Garros (the French Open) and the US Open, meanwhile Sinner won his first Wimbledon Championship. Tennis fans are ecstatic about the player’s rivalry, comparing it to the rivalry between Nadal and Federer. Social media has played a very significant role in the spread of news about matches and results, and fans have even started referring to Sinner and Alcaraz’s on-court relationship as “Sincaraz,” saying things like, “I hope we get another Sincaraz final!” Recently, the players have met each other so often that Carlos Alcaraz has even said, “I’m seeing you (Sinner) more than my family!”
Despite the 2025 tennis season coming to an end, fans are speculating what next year’s season will look like. Will we have another year of “Sincaraz” finals? If Alcaraz and Sinner continue to grow and play at the levels they have this year, there is a chance that they could dominate the game of tennis for a long time. Could they be the next “Big 2?”
Students Jump into Playoffs in Fall Sports
Softball
Softball is finishing up another good season! With the team being undefeated in region they went into the playoffs being the number one seed facing number four seed Cass. The doubleheader was played on Oct. 13, 2025. The Knights battled hard the first game and were down 4-1 going into the fifth inning, but then sophomore Megan Wrigley hit a three run home run to tie the game up going into the sixth. The Knights came back and won the first game 4-5 and the second game 9-4. They face off against number 2 seed Walnut Grove at home on Monday(as of Oct. 16).
Cross Country
Cross country is wrapping up yet another successful season! Both the boys’ and girls’ teams had numerous PRs and breakthrough seasons. Annika Soni has stood out this season, with nearly a minute and a half PR from last season. Led by coaches Steve and Jolie Cunningham, both teams are expected to win sectionals and place highly at state. Sophomore Rebecca Wilbert said, “Cross country has been super fun this year, especially seeing everyone improve makes all the hard work fun and exciting”. The cross country team has a very close knit
vibe and have bonded well this season. The boys team have even buzzed their heads together.
Cheerleading
With all of their amazing halftime performances and dances, the cheer team had a very successful season. “Cheer has been super fun this season because we’re trying out harder stunts and tricks” said sophomore Simani White. Cheering at all ten games this year, the cheer team pulled off impressive stunts, dancing and cheers. The homecoming game especially stands out as a highlight of the season, performing a halftime show that definitely impressed both students and faculty. The halftime performance truly showcases how hard this team has worked all year.
Volleyball
Volleyball has had yet another great season! With a state championship record of eight years in a row, volleyball
has made quite a name for itself. Led by seniors Lawson Monroe, Britton McGurn, Olivia Siskin, Grace Richardson, Gabby Emch, Jolie Litvak, Jocelyn Axelrod, Campbell Thomas, Rebecca McCloskey and Zoe Taylor, this
team is hoping to win their ninth consecutive state title. “The team has been very fun this year, and all the girls were super welcoming,” said Sophomore Chloe Queguiner. The knights battled hard against Southeast Whitfield County and went 3-0 to move onto the sweet sixteen. The knights will battle hard through the state tournament and hopefully take home the state title!
Football
The Knights during their recent games against Forest Park and Maynard Jackson finally wrap up their season. This team has had accomplishments with their 100th win in program history against Chamblee and defeating Charles Drew 38-7. The team shows promise for next year as they had close games with Lovett and Westminster. “Next year, I can definitely see us winning the rival games. Especially because of how hard this team has worked throughout the
summer and this season,” said freshman Nathan Wu. Despite the rough run this season for the Knights, the players haven’t lost their spirit. With key players that will develop in the off season the Knights are excited for what next season will bring.
Flag Football
Flag football is one of the most unique teams at Pace. Girls flag football has had an increasing amount of participation throughout the past five years and has become a very successful team at Pace. Last year, the team made it to the state championship but unfortunately lost in a close game against Pope High School. “The team is very easy to bond with and is very close knit” said Sophomore Esther Oyefuga. This year, the team expects to place high in the state tournament, and are prepared to compete well enough to win this year.
Photo: Fred Assaf
Photo: Fred Assaf
Photo: ATP Tour
Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz walk to the net on Arthur Ashe to shake hands after the US Open.
Senior Lawson Monroe delivers a spike for a point towards the Knights.
Senior Jaylen Smith fights through heavy defense for a big run play.