2024 Nautilus - Southport High School

WHATS INSIDE? | Theatre 4| Awards 6 | |Unified Track 13 | Softball 14 | |Boys/Girls Lacrosse 9 | | Boys Golf 16| Girls Tennis 17 | | Baseball 10 | Track 12 | | Boys Volleyball 18| Prom 20 |

ONCE IN

students witness total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024

TABLE OF

On April 8, 2024, Hoosiers gathered in parks, open fields, yards and rooftops, eager to catch a glimpse of a cosmic occurrence.

The total solar eclipse treated observers to a rare spectacle, as the moon positioned itself perfectly between the Earth and the Sun, momentarily plunging areas along the eclipse path into darkness. Southport was lucky enough to be in the “Path of Totality.”

The community prepared for the event, and safety precautions were emphasized as school was closed and places such as the library, store, and malls provied eclipse glasses.

In a world where time seemed to pass in the blink of an eye, The Anchor acknowledged that the 2024 eclipse was a moment that demanded to be captured for future generations to appreciate. For that reason, our spring magazine revolved around the 2024 solar eclipse to preserve the memories and experiences associated with such rare events.

•Siang Zi ‘25

FROM THE EDITOR

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION: Top left to bottom right Fabian Rodriguez’ 27 ready for the Relay. The Southport Relay was participated by all runners. PHOTO BY DJ JOHN ‘26. Oreal Johnson’23 runs to make it back home.

The game was against Arsenal Tech. PHOTO BY MALIK DAVIS ‘25 Astrid Gojko’24 cries during the play. The play was called “Empowered”. PHOTO BY JAMES PEREZ’24 Bei Hnei’24 receives the ball for a warm up. Hnei was a libero for the boys vollleyball team. PHOTO BY VAN HLU’25 PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY BRITAIN GIVENS

Golf•16 Track•13 Theater•4

Siang Cer Zi ’25

Welcome to The Nautilus, the spring edition of The Anchor. Due to constraints from our printing schedule, The Nautilus staff was only able to cover a portion of our spring season. This also mans coverage of events such as prom and graduatin were not covered to their full extent in print. However, we made a concerted effort to ensure these moments were captured through YBK+. Check out pages 6&7 to access photos of these important events! Those photos will be availble for 50 years on the YBK + platform.

STAFF Lilly Dusenbery ‘25 •Co-Editor-in-Chief Mang Si ‘25 • Cover Desgin Ava Wiley ‘26 •Design Editor Lal Rin Diki ‘24 •Editor Emerita Britain Givens ‘24 •Editor Emeritus Meredith Ziegler ‘24 •Editor Emerita Mr. Sam Hanley •Adviser

•James Perez ‘24 •Jonah Gotkin ‘24 •Malik Davis’25 •Journey Bowman ‘26 •DJ John ‘26 •Aspeb Collins ‘26 •Aryonah Tapscott ‘26 •Beauti Zalenpar ‘26

•Hannah Neuman ‘26 •Bianca Haskins ‘24 •Mayra Amantecatl ‘25 •Van Hlu ‘25 •Addy Murphy ‘25 •Mang Si ‘25 •Nini Hniang ‘25 •Nichole Siang ‘25

YBK+ 1. Scan the QR Code to access YBK+ 2. Hover over the image to the right to see the images of Commencement!

Boys Volleyball • 18-19

Contents

Lifetime

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Astrid Gojiko ‘ 24 plays the character Amerilys during the spring play. She was the antogonist of the story.

PHOTO BY JAMES PEREZ ‘24

LIGHTS! CAMERA!

Theater department works hard during the spring season

action!

Spring was no down time for the theater department. After their Fall musical, the theater department jumped right into working on the spring play and many other projects. This year’s Spring play was called “Empowered”. It centered around a group of Girl Scouts trying to win a cookie selling contest, and endangering the economy of the entire world. Sophomore Nienna Wittleif, who played the role of Cheyenne in “Empowered” has been involved in the theater program since she was in middle school, as well as other performing arts.

“It’s definitely stressful to have multiple theater things going on, but usually we don’t have too much on our plate,” Wittleif said.

During the spring season, the theater department does an April session of Tea with a Princess, also known as TWAP. TWAP was an event where members of the theater department dress as different characters, primarily ones from disney, and interact with kids as their favorite characters. Sophomore Alex Callaway dressed up as Batman this year.

“We hang out with the kids, take pictures with them, hand out snacks, color with them, have an autograph session, and then a dance party at the end,” Callaway said.

Each performer got to choose a character to play. The performers dressed and portrayed their chosen one during the event.

Wittleif recalled the children’s excitement when seeing their favorite characters come to life.

“The kids are always excited, a lot of the time there will be a couple kids bursting with excitement and running around trying to meet everyone,” Wittleif said.

There was never a shortness of excitement when performing, especially when your audience is as enthusiastic about the performance as you are. All the nerves and stress leading up to the moment were all made worth it.

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•Ava Wiley ‘26

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1. Lizzie Forrester’25, dressed as Princess Anna from Frozen, gets ready to greet the children at Tea With a Princess.

2. Nienna Wittleif ‘26 and Tristen Blakely ‘25, dressed as Princess Auora and Spiderman, talk to a young girl.

3. Piper Leber ‘27 gets dragged off stage by her fellow Girl Scouts during the spring play, “Empowered.”

4. Annabelle Southern’24, dressed as Belle from Beauty and the Beast, colors with a little girl during Tea with a Princess.

5. Astrid Gojiko ‘24 gives a monologue during the spring play.

6. Mary Pfeifer ‘ 24 plays the character Kennedy for the spring play.

7. Meredith Ziegler ‘ 24 gets dragged away by security guards.

8. Tristen Blakely ‘25 ‘s character mopes about the loss of his teddy bear’s head.

9. Maddie Stutz ‘26, dressed as Tinkerbell, signs an autograph for a little girl.

PHOTOS BY JAMES PEREZ ‘24

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1. Piper Leber ‘27 plays the character Mackenzie during the spring play “Empowered”.

2. Astrid Gojiko’24 grabs Jaylen Siens ‘24 by the tie.

3. Alex Callaway ‘26 dresses as Batman during Tea With a Princess.

4. Meridith Ziegler ‘24 counts money, and checks the authenticity.

PHOTOS BY JAMES PEREZ ‘24

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Q&A

SHINING LIKE THE

STARS

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NHS pillar repsentatives present speeches to new inductees

s we are entering a new era of education, the road to one of the highest academic accomplishments has become more perilous to travel. Over the course of a decade, the bar to get accepted into the NHS has been raised from a 3.5 GPA to a 3.7. The NHS or National Honors Society revolved around the four pillars; Scholarship, Leadership, Character, and Service.

These pillars were created to represent key aspects of an exceptional student.

Among these pillars, Lal Rin Diki was chosen to represent Scholarship. During the annual NHS induction ceremony Diki gave a speech on the meaning behind the pillar and how gold symbolizes it. “...in today’s ever-evolving world, gold represents the most priceless and timeless treasure one can possess – scholarship…It’s a journey of exploration and understanding. It’s about delving into the depths of human knowledge, seeking answers to life’s most profound questions, and applying that knowledge to create positive change in the world,” Diki said.

Diki then transitioned to explaining Scholarship to the newly inducted juniors, stating that they should be acknowledged for going above and beyond academic expectations.

“Each of the inductees before you has demonstrated a commitment to scholarship that goes above what was expected of them,” Rin Diki said.

After Diki talked about the importance of learning, senior Lucy Hiller took the stage. Hiller was chosen to speak on the pillar of Leadership, and what it means to be a leader.

“Each one of you is a leader. Whether it’s in the classroom, at home, in a job, or on a sports team...it’s important to recognize our influence and use it for good… true leadership means getting your hands dirty, being directly involved, and giving time, effort and passion to your cause,” Hiller said The other two representatives, seniors Sui Kong and Jimmy Ramirez also gave speeches for their respective pillars: Character and Service. When academic standards are increasingly demanding, the journey to achieving the highest academic honor required a full time commitment to leadership, character, scholarship, and service.

The four students chosen accurately portrayed each NHS pillar in both their speeches and in their time at Southport.

What is your dream role?

S.T.A.R.S

S.T.A.R.S banquet turn success despite decresed in numbers

Lal Rin Diki ‘24 wears her gold robe and lights the candle representing the torch. She was the first of the four pillar representatives to do so.

PHOTO BY NICHOLE SIANG ‘25

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The S.T.A.R.S banquet serves as a pivotal occasion designed to honor and celebrate top achievers for their remarkable accomplishments.

It’s an evening dedicated to acknowledging not only the outstanding students but also the educators who have profoundly impacted their educational journey. “...they’ve maintained a balance of traditional school and then maybe outside of school things like clubs.” Senior Sophia Richason said.

Despite a decrease in the number of students who qualified compared to previous years, the banquet still served as a platform to honor and congratulate those who diligently maintained a 4.0 GPA. The adjustment in numbers did not lessen the importance of the event; instead, it emphasized the outstanding dedication and hard work demonstrated by these accomplished students.

“The students that earned that award worked very hard to be on time with the things they had to turn in, knew what school they wanted to go to, what they were pursuing, and were very attentive to the evening of our activity.”

STARS event planner and Office Manager Alicia Tasker said.

•Nichole Siang ‘25

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1. Sui Kong ‘24 lights the candle. Kong was the vice president of Keyclub.

2. Lucy Hiller ‘24 lights the candle representing the torch. Her purple robe represents the Leadership pillar.

3. Jimmy Ramirez ‘24 lends his candle onto the candle after giving his speech. His red robe represented the pillar of Service.

4. Principal Amy Boone gives a speech to congradulate the students who achieved National Honors. This was her first year being a principal.

5. Mrs. Christina Ferguson talks with the student for the upcoming day. Ferguson was a sponsor for NHS. 6. The students listen while Mrs. Amy Boone gave her speech. NHS Induction was an annual event.

PHOTOS BY NICHOLE SIANG ‘25

“My dream role to play would be Jane Doe from “Ride the Cyclone”.

•Natalee Rojas ‘24

“Alice Belineke from “The Addams Family.”

•Alex Callaway ‘26

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THESPIAN BANQUET QR CODE 1. Scan the QR Code to access YBK+ 2. Hover over the image to the right to see more of the Thespian Banquet!

•Nichole Siang ‘25

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“I really wanna play Allie from “The Notebook”.”

•Maddie Strutz ‘26

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“I would love to be Eurydice in “Hadestown” on broadway.”

•Lizzie Forrester ‘25 1. Sophia Richason ‘24 hugs Mr. David Luers who she dedicated her speech to. Richason planned to major in political science and history.

2. The seniors pose for a picutres in front of the S.T.A.R.S. There were 35 people in S.T.A.R.S. 3. Natalla’h Wilson ‘25 hugs Ms. Brianna Underwood who was her guidance counselor. Wilson planned to go to Indiana University to major in biology.

4. Student serve desert for the people at the banquet. The deserts were made in a culinary class by students.

PHOTOS BY NICHOLE SIANG ‘25

STICKING

The bond between the Boy’s Lax team

together S

tep onto the field, and you’ll witness more than just a game.

You’ll witness teamwork, dedication, and commitment. The boy’s lacrosse team was not just about scoring goals or making saves, it was about the seamless unity that propels them forward as one unstoppable force.

“Their desire to learn the game and put forth effort to their training has been huge in cultivating a positive space for us to grow this year and next year,” Coach Justin Magbanua said.

With the addition of new players and coaches, the team was able to grow stronger as a team by working together and learning as they go. Having only 6 returning players, there were some doubts regarding the outlook of the season. However, the team’s performance has proven to refute these doubts exceeding the expectations of some.

“I expected the team to be horrible, I won’t lie,” Senior Noah Daniel said, “my expectations have been way exceeded.”

Despite the team being met with some conflict concerning their field midway through the season, they stayed dedicated to the game and continued playing. The mistreatment they faced gave them the motivation to let it be known that they deserved to be counted as equal to any other sports team.

“We made it our goal to prove to the athletic department that we deserve to be here,” Daniel said.

As the season has come to an end, the team is satisfied with the turnout and the development throughout the whole season. Many memories they can look back on were created with both the old and new aspects of the team. This was a great and favorable year for most.

“This year was more than memorable, it was the best senior season I could’ve asked for,” Daniel said.

•Mang Si ’25

1. Alex De La O’ 24 gets in position for a face off. This was how they started every game. PHOTO BY MANG SI’ 25 2. Jeremy Conde-Gomez ’25 talks over the play with the assistant coach. This was during time-out. PHOTO BY MANG SI’ 25 3. Andrew Schauer ’25 attempts to stop the opposing player from scooping the ball. The ball was a ground ball. PHOTO

BY MANG SI’ 25 4. Addison Meredith ’24 and Davion Glover ’25 run together to stop opposing team from passing. This was a game against Roncalli. PHOTO BY MANG SI’ 25 5. Noah Daniel ’24 runs to retrieve the ball to try to stop their opponents from reaching their goal. He was an attacker. PHOTO BY JAMES PEREZ’ 24 6. Connor Higgins ’25 walks off the field at the end of the game. It was a winning game for them. PHOTO BY JAMES PEREZ’ 24

FROM STRUGGLE

to strength “I

came close to almost losing my life in college and lacrosse saved me.” Rachel Frantz said.

Teacher and coach, Rachel Frantz, was diagnosed by doctors with an eating disorder, being told she was dangerously underweight and her heart could stop at any moment. Frantz’s college Lacrosse coaches intervened and took her to receive the medical and mental health care she desperately needed.

“My brain was telling me that was fine when in reality I was not okay. So, my Lacrosse coaches offered me to get some help and that ultimately saved my life.

Like I’m in a much healthier place right now,” Frantz said.

Since recovery, Frantz took on coaching Lacrosse and is focused on building strong bonds with her players, ensuring they are in good shape both physically and mentally. Her goal is to give back the support and love she received from her coaches.

“She boosted my confidence in myself, she has made me feel comfortable in my own skin, she has just made me feel loved and important,” Junior Makayla Taylor said.

Coach Frantz and the team get ready to Once Frantz ensures her team is mentally well do their chant before continuing their game and confident, she hones in on their athletic ability in against Lawrence Central High School.

Lacrosse, so they can improve in their sport and their She had talked to the team about their well-being. performance during the first minutes of the “She has encouraged me through my journey with game. PHOTO BY NINI HNIANG ‘25 the sport and has helped me through any struggles I have faced. She pushes us because she sees our potential, and she has helped me become a better player and 2. person. Frantz loves lacrosse and her love for the sport is infectious,” Junior Sydney Hartman said.

Frantz continues to give back to her players as a coach and a friend. While it took a lot of effort to get her to where she is now, she is grateful for it in a bittersweet sense given that she can use it to help others.

“And I know, while I’m not happy that I had to go through that situation, I don’t regret it in the sense of ‘no, I can help a lot of people by sharing my story,” Frantz said.

•Nini Hiang ‘25

Noah Daniel’ 24 talks to his teammates Andrew Schauer’ 25, Tristen Blakely’ 25, and Xavier Scaggs’ 27. It was during their break. PHOTO BY JAMES PEREZ‘24

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A coach’s adversity that led to be the beacon of support.

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1. Sydney Hartman ‘25 attempts to make a goal while an opponent tries to block her way. She made it in and scored the first goal for their game against Avon.

2. Teammates gather around Anna Grehn ‘25 after she scores a point for them. They hugged and jumped to celebrate the goal.

3. Isabella Meece ‘24 makes her way to the other side of the field while getting blocked. She attempted to make a shot.

4. Prosperity Lloyd ‘25 runs and manages to grab the ball as the others come up running behind her. Her position in lacrosse was defense.

5. During time out, Makayla Taylor ‘25 explains to her peers the opposing team’s play. She demonstrated what they needed to do to prevent their competition from having it easy.

6. Sofie Nool ‘25 and other opponents clash with one another in attempt to get the ball. Hartman helped get a hold of the ball while it was in the air.

PHOTOS BY NINI HNIANG ‘25

THE BIG

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Baseball graduates nine seniors

Sendoff

s spring sports kicked off, seniors on the Baseball team started their last season as Cardinals. Coach Brendan Dudas had mentored the class of 2024 for almost their entire high school athletic career and reflected on the impact he hoped to leave on this group of seniors.

“They’re hard workers. They bought into what I want to do here, and they’re going to leave an impact, I think long after they’re gone,” Dudas said.

As the seniors took the position as leaders of the team, the younger players on the team followed suit, taking inspiration from the current upperclassman leadership abilities.

“Our juniors, sophomores, and freshmen fall in line and have good role models. They understand the importance of being good leaders, being accountable, being there every day, and giving their best effort,” Dudas said.

The seniors had created a structure of leadership and hard work that rubs off on the younger players. Senior Calvin Miller reflected on what hard work means to their team.

“We’ve pumped a strong work ethic into guys like Riley Matlock ‘26 and Nick Godsey ‘25. They are both hard workers, but we’re kind of examples of hard work that leads to improvement,” Miller said.

The 2024 class left an impact for upcoming athletes in the baseball program, as their efforts the past three years have been recognized by both coaches and younger students around them.

“They’re humble. They understand the importance of hard work. This senior class is really everything. They’re the backbone of our program,” Dudas said.

•Hannah Neuman ‘26

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1. Nicholas Godsey ‘25 pitches to the batter on the other team. PHOTO

BY BRITAIN GIVENS ‘24.

2. Bryce Calvert ’24 walks off the field after hitting. PHOTO BY BRITAIN GIVENS ‘24.

3. Calvin Miller ‘24 stands at a plate waiting for the next pitch. PHOTO BY BRITAIN GIVENS ‘24 4. Peyton Phoenix ‘25 walks at the mound for the pitch. This was his 3rd season on the team. PHOTO BY ARYONAH TAPSCOTT ‘26.

5. The team gathers up and gets ready for the game. PHOTO BY BRITAIN GIVENS ‘24.

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Seniors Nolan Roll and Bryce Calvert talk to each other before the game starts. They’ve been playing baseball together at SHS for 4 years. PHOTO BY BRITAIN GIVENS ‘24.

Q&A Do you see yourself playing baseball in the future?

“Yeah, I want to play baseball because it’s fun, and so I’m gonna try to go to college for it.”

•Espy Ralston ‘24

“Yes. I feel like my future just started with baseball and I would like to continue it.”

•Jainel Matos ‘24

“Yeah, I see myself playing baseball at Maryland University because I believe I’m to pitch there.”

• Ramon Martinez ‘24

“Yeah. Because I’m good and I show team effort and teamwork.”

•Bryce Ward ‘24

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6. Calvin Miller ‘24 gives the ball to Nick Godsey ‘25. PHOTO BY BRITAIN GIVENS ‘24.

7. Nolan Roll ‘24 sets up before hitting the ball. PHOTO BY BRITAIN GIVENS ‘24.

8. Nicholas Godsey ‘25 gets ready to pitch. PHOTO BY BRITAIN GIVENS ‘24.

9. Riley Matlock ‘26 practices batting before the game. This was his second season playing for the team.

PHOTO BY BRITAIN GIVENS ‘24.

10. Calvin Miller ‘24 bats in the game against Perry Meridian. This was the rescheduled game against Perry. PHOTO BY BRITAIN GIVENS ‘24.

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unify

STEP UP TO

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Unified track team captain steps up, makes team proud

hen the student athletes prepare for their event, one student stands out on the track: Senior Jeremiah Potts, captain of the Unified Track team. With every step, Potts carried himself with pride, a natural leadership ability, and unwavering positivity that unifies the team as one family.

“I have to make sure my team is stronger, better and getting faster. I make sure to look at my team like a family,” Potts said.

The responsibility of leading a team to success can be grueling. A few of the many tasks Potts had were leading the team in warm ups, ensuring their bodies are stretching properly to avoid injury, and providing words of encouragement. Potts reflected on how this effortless fulfilling the challenge comes to him.

“I like being the leader, it feels good. Making the team hype and proud,” Potts said.

Potts’ took on the weight of being captain on his own. Unified Track coach and teacher Ms. Jennifer Karushis vouched for Potts’ innate ability to be a determined yet kind leader.

“Jeremiah is a natural leader. We didn’t even assign him the job, he just stepped up and did it! He always has a smile on his face and he is always willing to do any event. He is up to every challenge,” Karushis said.

Pott’s self appointed commitment to the sport and the team’s success was attested by Karushis. She proved that his readiness for any challenge and persistent leadership makes him a not only standout player on the field, but an embodiment of what all student athletes should strive to be.

RUNNING

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sophomore joins track, fufills mental and physical goals

for peace H

Jeremiah Potts ‘24 stretchs during warm-up. Potts was the captain of the team. PHOTO BY LILLY DUSENBERY ‘25

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•Lilly Dusenbery ‘25

1. Kayden Connelly ‘25 practices running a 100m. This was before their first meet of the season.

PHOTO BY LILLY DUSENBERY 2. Jeremiah Potts ‘24 high-fives Jayden Howard ‘26. PHOTO BY LILLY DUSENBERY ‘25 3. Ella Thompson ‘27 runs on the track. She was preparing to jump. PHOTO BY ASPEN COLLINS ‘26 4. Noah Diallo ‘24 runs at the Roncalli Unified Track meet.

PHOTO BY ASPEN COLLINS ‘26 5.

The Unified Track team walk down the track. This was before the matches started. PHOTO BY ASPEN COLLINS ‘26 6. Ulises Castillo-Uribe ‘24 runs and jumps on the sand. This was the long jump section of the meet.

PHOTO BY ASPEN COLLINS ‘26

1. Hayden Black ’25 pole vaults againt Arsenal Tech. This meet was held on April 17th.

2. David Sanchez ’25, Alonzo Diaz ‘25, Ashley Martinez ’25, Erin Herwehe ‘26, and Halle Kenyon ‘26 start a distance run. This was an 800 meter run. PHOTOS BY DJ JOHN

James Kalala ’26 runs a 4 x 4. Kalala passed it off to JD. PHOTO BY DJ JOHN ‘26.

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aving peace of mind was something not all runners had when they were competing, yet when sophomore James Kalala came from Congo to the US, he sought two things. Peace and positivity. Kalala began running to not only improve his athletics, but to find positive connections and feel content in his physical abilities.

“It brings peace to me because it makes me feel good, because of the fact that I’m running and having fun with friends and being competitive makes me feel good,” Kalala said.

While he chose running for self fulfillment, Kalala has athletic goals on his mind to meet as well.

“My ultimate goal when doing track is to become a better athlete, which would eventually help me in basketball and I feel like the more I do track the more it helps me to be a better athlete,” Kalala said.

Kalala managed to find a perfect balance between improving his athleticism and finding enjoyment during his first season on the team. Though Kalala is new at the sport, he has made bounds towards his athletic improvement while connecting with teammates and his coach, Andrew Geller.

“James has only been in track and field for a couple months now, but I have seen great improvement so far. My relationship with James started with non-athletic pleasantries in the hallways and since I have started to coach him it has developed into a great coach-athlete relationship,” Geller said.

•DJ John ‘26 3. EB Bangura ’25, DeJon Pitchford ‘25, and Hayden Black ’25 run 100 meter. All the runner ran at the Southport Relay.

4. Fredy Landaverry ‘25 high jumps during Relay. Fredy has been in Track since his freshman year.

5. Nola Linson ‘25 runs a 4 x1. She passed the torch to her teamates to finish the race.

6. Girls head coach Fishel gives advice to Kamiah Davis’26. Kamiah’s sister, Kaniah Davis ’25, was also on the track team. PHOTOS BY DJ JOHN

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LOCKED Softball team uses bonding to strive for improvement

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Honor An Educator Night

in

fter honing in on individual skill sets and practice, the softball team quickly understood they were still missing something. A key component that would feed their thirst for more wins was team bonding. As they continued to touch up their skills on the field, they recognized fostering strong bonds off the field was equally essential to having a successful and cooperative team.

“We´re all a family and we all help each other out, and the older girls will help us younger girls by telling each other things we need to work on and just encouragement all around,” freshman Lorelei Bennet said.

One of the team bonding activities they do was going out to eat before their big games.

Junior Keyona Graham, a member of the JV team, liked eating with her friends before the games.

Graham recalled it helping them focus once the team gets onto the field.

Showing up to practices, games, and these bonding activities were important for the team to grow together.

The more you get to know your team, the easier it was to trust each other on the field. With the team losing five senior athletes at the beginning of the season, it showed the importance of sticking together and bonding with your squad.

•Aryonah Tapscott ‘26 & Malik Davis ‘25

8. Malia Breedlove ‘26 at the plate. she was able to hit the ball and run to first base. PHOTO BY ARYONAH TAPSCOTT ‘26

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Oreal Johnson ‘24 runs to home base.This was the first point of the inning against Arsenal Tech. PHOTO BY MALIK DAVIS ‘25

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1.The team watch the game played out from the dug-out. The team consisted of 24 players.

PHOTO BY MALIK DAVIS ‘25 2. Hayli Phoenix ‘27 stops at second base.

She patiently waited for a play to get to third base.

PHOTO BY Malik davis ‘25 3. Adyson Stansbury ‘26 runs towards the seond base. This was in the first inning. PHOTO BY MALIK DAVIS ’25 4. Keyona Graham ‘25 stands at the batting. She missed the second ball but was able to a comeback.

PHOTO BY MALIK DAVIS ‘25 5. Oreal Johnshon ’24 runs from third base to home base.This was their first score of the game.

PHOTO BY MALIK DAVIS ‘25 6. Adyson Stansbury ‘26 with her stance in the box ready to bat. She strugglged to get the ball in the air to complete the play. PHOTO BY MALIK DAVIS ‘25 7. Armani Arizpe ‘26 stands first base. This was during the first inning of the game. PHOTO BY ARYONAH TAPSCOTT ‘26

The girls softball team took a moment to honor their favorite teachers. This was prior to their game against Arsenal Technical High School. Some teachers that were honored included from top to bottom: Mr. Klophinstein by Kennedy Cochran ‘27, Lorelei Bennet honoring Mrs. Staton,and Malia Breedlove and Hayven Wyant ‘26 honoring Lori Ham. PHOTOS BY ARYONAH TAPSCOTT ‘26

Q &A Who’s influence has impacted you the most?

9. Ava Thorpe ‘27 stands at short stop. while in this heat, she patienly waited for a play.

PHOTO BY ARYONAH TAPSCOTT ‘26 10. Allyson Kiefner ‘26 is at pitcher. As she stood determined, she was able to strike out the opponent.

PHOTO BY MALIK DAVIS ‘25

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“I look up to Allyson Kiefner because of the way she carries herself and how she always works harder to get better.”

•Kayden Hernandez ‘27

“Oreal Johnson, she’s the best player on the team and personality is amazing.”

•Kennedy Cochran ‘27

“Darcy Leber because she always brings me up and is postive and there for me.”

•Emma Sloan ‘25

“Ava thorpe because she inspires me to work harder and do better.”

•Meadow Warfield ‘27

SERVING UP

Q&A

backstory of a players’ passion for tennis

memories F

amilies have different ways of connecting, whether it’s through social events, spending quality time together, or creating their own traditions. Senior Ding Oo and her family, in particular, had a generational tradition passed down through the years, which was a meaningful way for them to bond with each other.

The passion for tennis began with her dad, who played a variety of sports back in Myanmar, and he shared that profound love for the sport to his daughters.

“Tennis became a main sport for me both in and out of school, as it is one of the sports that my whole family enjoys playing.

It’s not very difficult for us, which makes it easier for us to have a good bonding time. I think family quality time is very important,” Ding Oo ‘24 said.

During their one-on-one tennis sessions, they typically played in a supportive yet competitive manner. But as time went by, not only did Oo noticed her improvement, but so did her father, who observed her developing new skills.

“We are all competitive but still show support to each other. I would remember how my daughters would start from 0 and now I have watched them grow better than me on the court…I can tell she has grown stronger and has developed new skills like teamwork, sportsmanship, and a good attitude. ” Oo’s father , Hla Muan, said.

Although the passion in sports is commonly driven by competition and a longing for athletic development, Oo and her family understand that their family holds the same passion for different reasons. Support, love, and tradition can also be the driving force behind a student athlete’s devotion to their chosen sport.

“Because of this much support and fun I have with my family, they encourage me to do my best in my tennis year, and every day that I play, I am always reminded of them,” Oo said.

•Beauti Zalenpar ‘26

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What is your favorite golf club?

“The three wood golf club.”

•Matt Youmans ‘24

“Putter club.”

•Evan Meredith ‘24

“My favorite club is “Pitching wedge... it hits pitching wedge.” straight and smooth.”

•Braden McIntire ‘25 •Donovan Brewer ‘25

EVERY SHOT

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After the Winter season of extreme matches, wins and loses, and the hard training of basketball, two newly starting golf players took their shot in the game. Friends since the basketball season, junior Jack Turner and junior Donovan Brewer played in the golf season this Spring.

This was the first year they decided to play in the sport to ease their minds from the hectic winter season.

“Whenever I feel stressed it’s something I can go out and do and play and it calms my mind,” Turner said.

Throughout high school, the only sport they played was basketball, leaving the spring sports season bare without any athletics to do. The Summer of 2023 was the awakening of the sport for the duo.

Basketball is a game based on teamwork. Golf is a sport that relies on your skills alone. The drastic difference between the two games was evident to the boys and they had to start anew and adapt.

Nonetheless, Turner and Brewer had found joy and showed potential in the new sport.

“Golf is an individual game and it’s all about mental attitude. Everybody on the team is capable of and has the skills to play the game well. But being in the right headspace to do it at any given moment is tough,” Coach Mr. Sam Hanley said.

Ding Oo ‘24 warms up by doing htting line drill. This was her final year on the team.

PHOTO BY BEAUTI ZALENPAR ‘26

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Head coach Mr. Sam Hanley instructs Donovan Brewer ‘25.

This is Hanley’s second year as head coach. PHOTO BY LILLY DUSENBERY ‘25

•Aspen Collins ‘26

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1. Tyler Pierle ‘26 swings to hit the ball. He was known as one of the best players in the conference. PHOTO BY ASPEN COLLINS ‘26.

2. Braden McIntire ‘25 putts the ball to the hole. The team later won this game. PHOTO

BY LILLY DUSENBERY ‘25 3. Jack Turner ‘25 finishes his swing. He also played basketball. PHOTO BY LILLY DUSENBERY ‘25 4. Captain Evan Meredith ‘24 hits the golf ball. Pierle was standing behind him after he shot. PHOTO BY ASPEN COLLINS ‘26

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5. Rose Sung ‘27 practices with the wall after a rainy day. This helped the players find their rhythm. 6. Lillian Hess ‘25 recieves with Avanell Traylor ‘25. They practiced indoor because of poor weather. 7. Ding Oo ‘24 serves low balls during practice. The coach gave her tips in between serves.

fall basketball players transition to golf in the Spring

1. Trinity Kendrick ‘27 practices with her partner, Ryan Abernathy ‘27. She has been playing tennis since middle school.

2. Samantha Watterson ‘27 waits for her coach, Anteneh Teshome, to toss the ball for her to recieve. This drill helps the players run for the ball.

3. Avanell Traylor ‘25 recieves a ball from her partner Vicki Davis ‘26. She was one of the players who play single.

4. Christy Par ‘27 hits the ball during their hitting line drill. This was before their game with Terre Haute.

PHOTOS BY BEAUTI ZALENPAR ‘26

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5. Sai Lian ‘24 blocks Whiteland player. This was his last year on the team 6. Donovan Alexander ‘24 does a jump serve. He got an ace on the opposing team Franklin Central.

7. Isaiah Martinez-Roseman ‘26 gets ready for serve-recieve. He played as Defense Specialist for both Varsity and JV. 8. The varsity team huddles before the game starts. This was a tradition that was passed on.

PHOTOS BY VAN HLU ‘25

student gets back to the court after recovery

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etting back into the court. senior Bei Hnei had to relive the beginning by relearning the basics after his unexpected tragedy. On July 23, 2023, Hnei got into a car accident causing him a loss of mobility.

Volleyball has always been Hnei’s passion as he has been playing since a young age. “...that got me intrigued with how the game works.

I got reintroduced in 7th that’s when I knew I was good at it and I knew that was my sport,” Hnei said.

Hnei’s upbringing in volleyball brought a lot of joy to him. After facing the incident in his junior year, volleyball was temporarily off the table for him. Hnei faced many injuries including a fractured spine and a weakened right knee. While Hnei began to recover, volleyball was finally available for him again.

“I continued to persevere through all of that and continued to play, even though I am not at my peak now,” Hnei said.

Hnei had to go through training and practice to get back to strength. Hnei had to go back to the start of his volleyball career to reach his full potential for volleyball again. His team and coaches helped him learn all his lost skills, but most importantly supported him throughout his journey.

“It’s a little less about volleyball and more about him as a person,” Coach Ethan Coffman said.

•Van Hlu ‘25

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MANAGERS

Bei Hnei ‘25 warms up before the tri-match aganist Whiteland and Tri-West. He played as libero. PHOTO BY VAN HLU ‘25

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1. Bei Hnei ‘24 waves at the crowd. This was the starting lineup.

2. Hnei ‘24 gets in receiving position. He was warming up before a game.

3. Hnei ‘24 does a jump float serve. This was a game against Franklin Central.

4. Hnei ‘24 shows sportsmanship after the game. They won against Perry Meridian during the TriMatch.

PHOTOS BY VAN HLU ’25

Q&A What player do you look up to?

“I look up to Britain because he hypes me up the most, when he’s on the court he looks locked in and he’s a good person to be arond and he gives me rides.”

• Simeon Thang ‘27

“Bei because you can always trust him to get all the digs and he is very dependable.”

• Jacob Hrin ‘27

“I look up to Sai because me and him have the same jersey number. And for His height he is really good at the position he plays.”

• Moses Beimolai ‘27

“I look up to Ro Bik because he’s the most reliable and dependable.

And he never falls back down even if he gets blocked. ” • Billy Thang ‘27

Varsity Roslin Par ‘25, Manprit Kaur ‘24, Arianna Neese ‘25

Junior Varsity LyLy Par ‘26, Trinity Williams ‘26, Van Par ‘26

Junior Varsity 2 Mary Tial ‘27, Sung Tial ‘27

ALL on EYESyou

KEEP CALM we’re planning prom 1.

“I saw him run out of the auditorium.

I initially thought that he had to leave because of family, but to my surprise, he was at the cafeteria waiting to surprise me with my first promposal.

He’s always gone out of his way to surprise me.”

•Van Kong ‘25

“The moment I saw that my friends were gathering around him and me with giggles, cameras out, and the big poster, I was so filled with joy that I was unexpectedly brought to tears! It was so cute.”

•Van Chin ‘25

1. Scan the QR Code to access YBK+ 2. Hover over the image to the right to see images of Prom!

1. Dawn Fowerbaugh, Sal Lynch ‘24, Manprit Kaur ‘24 and Austin Lundsford met at the Indiana Roof Ballroom on Tueday, April 9, 2024. This was Fowerbaugh’s seventh year as a prom sponsor.

PHOTOS BY MAYRA AMANTECATL ‘25

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2. Jeff Van Der Moere talks through the map layout of the designated food tables. It was the first year Erin Ancelet was diving into prom planning.

3. Seniors Lynch and Kaur walk down towards Circle Centre Mall. They were selected by adult advisors to be on the prom court committee. PHOTOS BY MAYRA AMANTECATL ‘25

BOYS TRACK AND FIELD

Top Row: Dennis Buis ‘27, Matthew Moreno ‘26, Alex Bettag, Andrew Geller, Carl Basey, Benjamin Brown ‘25, James Kalala ‘26 5th Row: Lal Mawi ‘26, Xavier Alexander ‘25, Alejandro Ortiz ‘25, Rocco Fredrick ‘25, Carl Oren ‘27, Chanan Glenn ‘25, Cooper Gannon ‘25, Andreas Poulakis ‘26, Alexandros Poulakis ‘26, Jesus Castillo Vazquez ‘24, Carter Hartman ‘24, Presley Airhiagbonkpa ‘25 4th Row: Ricky Sanders ‘25, Gob Koko ‘25, Tony Taylor ‘25, Aganze Mulumeoderwa ‘27, Ali Khames ‘24, Gavin Cummins ‘26, Imon Cousins ‘25, Malachi Kennedy ‘25, Abel Mejia ‘26, Mason Lancaster-Lynch ‘27, Colin Adams ‘27 3rd Row: Liam Wilson ‘27, Ta’Maree Smith ’26, Arthur Jones ‘27, Tynell Tyler ’27, David Sanchez ‘25, Caleb Crecelius ‘26, Ali Wajit ‘26, Devyon Green ‘25, Damon Perkins ‘25, Robert Jr. ‘24, Fredy Landaverry ‘25 2nd Row: George Green’26,Craig Reed’26, Juan Tieco-Rojas ‘27, Justus Montgomery’25, Carl Oren’27, Luis Guzman’26, Liam Dailey ‘26, Christian Elizondo ‘25, Edwin Gomez ‘26, Robert Lizama ‘26, Ivan Rivera ‘25, Dennis Buis ‘27 Bottom Row: Darrel Tyler ’27, Braylon Koenig ‘25, Hayden Black ‘25, Devin Wilson ‘24, Antoni Teapila ’27, Fabian Rodriguez ‘27, Ai Lim ‘25, Jeremiah Haley ‘27, Jerson Rivera-Chavez ‘27, Carlos Serrano ‘26, Matthew Miers ‘26, Ethan Hilario’27, Emmanuel Bangura ‘25

GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD

Top Row: Kiley Rose Bowman ‘27, Shakyra Maureedullah ‘26, Cheyanne Beach ‘27, Khai Aung ‘26, Caydence Davis ‘27, Dawtmin Sung ‘27, Par Bawi Khar ‘25, Coach Nathan Fishel 5th Row: Joselyn Miller ‘24, Erin Herwehe ‘26, Ava Campbell ‘25, Josephine Bolen ‘24, Kayla Loper ‘27, Aemilia Eckert ‘25, Sophia Nguyen ‘25 4th Row: Maliya Faith Ulrey ‘27, Brittney Luna-Tovar ‘26, Tazaria Maree Duncan ‘24, Kamiah Passion Davis-Muff ‘26, Teasia L Bibbs ‘27, Cambree Shanelle Leigh Elkins ‘27, Kaniah Davis-Muff ‘25, Mariah Simone Henry ‘25 3rd Row: Willow Marie Treeter ‘26, Elizabeth Joan Cox ‘26, Lucy Caroline Hiller ‘24, Gracyee Jo Eacret ‘27, Halle Scout Kenyon ‘26, Ariana Renee Albarado ‘26, Mariah Luanne McMasters ‘27, Nola Rayn Linson ‘25 2nd Row: Marley Micassi Wein ‘27, Betty Monju Zinnah ‘27, Gabriela Maria Flores Bonilla ‘24, Faith Madyson Sachs ‘27, Anizha Lashae Washington ‘26, Mylah Elizabeth Smith ‘27, Ashley Martinez ‘25, Leah Marlie Zinnah ‘27 Bottom Row: Ta’laya Danae Tyler ‘27, Norah Noelle Seawood ‘27, Ariyah Nevaeh Mitchell ‘25, Amir Veene Lewis ‘27, Zai Nei Kim ‘24, Prosperity Lloyd ‘25, Helen Elizabeth Kissel ‘27, Eleana Beatrice Dashea Watkins ‘25

UNIFIED TRACK AND FIELD

Top Row: Jennifer Karushis, Kerry Simpson, Kevin Simpson 3rd Row: Kate Million ‘26, Noah Diallo ‘24, Faith Johnson ‘26, Kayden Connelly ‘25, 2nd Row: Ella Thompson ‘27, Anna Grehn ‘25, Jeremiah Potts ‘24, Tristan Castillo-Uribe ‘27, Nicholas Laurence ‘24 Bottom Row: Prosperity Lloyd ‘25, Jayla Howard ‘27, Sonya Rees ‘26, Ulises Castillo-Uribe ‘24

VARSITY BASEBALL

JV BASEBALL

Top Row: Abigail Kelley ‘26, Aidan Palmer, Alexander McCool, Brendan Dudas, Michael Gehlert, Mitchell Unversaw, Paige Denny 3rd Row: Riley Shirely ‘26, Nolan Roll ‘24, Calvin Miler ‘24, Jainel Matos ‘24, Jacob Rodriguez ‘24, Michael Takacs ‘24, 2nd Row: Ramon Martinez ‘24, Espy Ralston ‘24, Bryce Ward ‘24, Nicholas Godsey ‘25, Mason Deckard ‘26 Bottom Row: Max Terrell ‘25, Tiberius Duncan ‘26 , Nolan Roll ‘24 Peyton Phoenix ‘25, Austin Van Velse ‘25, Riley Matlock ‘26

Top Row: Aidan Palmer, Riley Shirely ‘26, Abigail Kelley ‘26, Paige Denny, Mitchell Unversaw 3rd Row: Janel Matos Custodio ‘26, Jayce Maynard ‘26, Myles Caudial ‘26, Daniel Wilson ‘26, Collin Matlock ‘27, John Elpers ‘26, Kamren Carver ‘26, 2nd Row: Isaiah Currie ‘27, Markis Johnson, Jainel Matos Custodio ‘24, Adam Wattson ‘27, Kaiden Garman ‘25, Dylan Pearcy ‘27, Braiden Brummett ‘27 Bottom Row: Juan Rendon ‘25, Davion McDonald ‘25, Connor Dubree ‘27, Gabriel Harman ‘26, Aiden Quinlin ‘26, Angel Salazar ‘26

VARSITY GIRLS LACROSSE

Top Row: Coach Rachel Frantz, Erin York’25, Elizabeth Forrester’25, Dorrie June’24, Makayla Taylor’25, Asylin Bowman’24, Coach Ella Pierle Middle Row: Anayiah Williams’25, Amina Green’25, Sydney Hartman’25, Jaymee Williams’26, Raven Fields’24, Hannah Neuman’26 Bottom Row: Isabella Meece’24, Kenzie Andrysiak’25, Prosperity Lloyd’25, Michel Ruiz-Morales’25, Sofia Nool’25, Gretchen Turner’24, Esbeydi Montes’24

Top Row: Justin Magbanua, Davion Glover ‘25 , Luke Melvin Jordan ‘25, Jeremy Alexander Conde-Gomez ‘25, Keygan Thomas Southern ‘25, Luca Kiefert ‘25 Middle Row : Josiah Richard Veen ‘24, Devin Speaks’ 25, Diego Allan Vera-Rosas ‘27, Nathan Blake Hall ‘26, Addison Robert Meredith ‘24, Conner Jay Higgins ‘25, Jackson Paul Osborne Lyle ‘24 Bottom Row: Raul Alejandro De La O Fabila ‘24, Xavier Scaggs ‘27, Jackson Joseph Essex ‘27, Andrew James Schauer ‘25, Tristen Austin Blakely ‘25, Noah Kent Daniel ‘24

GIRLS TENNIS

VARSITY BOYS VOLLEYBALL

JV GIRLS LACROSSE

SOFTBALL

BOYS GOLF

SPRING TRAINERS

Top Row: Coach Anteneh Teshome, Trinity Simons Kendrick ‘27, Rose Sung ‘27, Avanell Nicole Traylor ‘25, Samantha Irene Watterson ‘27, Eleanor Dove VanHoy ‘27, Ryan Noel Abernathey ‘27 Middle Row: Cing Zo Siang ‘25, Khai Shwe Zinmoe Aung ‘26, Bawi Hnem Par ‘27, Lawm Ti Zin ‘27, Rose Lily Rem Tha Ch Par ‘27, Lillian Grace Hess ‘25, Karen Sui ‘27, Aubrey Elise Rogers ‘27 Bottom Row: Vicki Claire Davis ‘26, Nem Deih Niang ‘27, Krisna Yen ‘26, Rebecca San ‘26, Christy Tha Hnem Par ‘27, Ding Oo ‘24, Ah Bi Sak Van Nei Awi ‘25

Top Row: Ro Bik ‘24, Landon Johnson ‘25, Coach Ethan Coffman, Simeon Thang ‘27, Dalton Little ‘25 Middle Row: Vanhlei Thang ‘24, Britain Givens ‘24, Donovan Alexander ‘24, James Lianching ‘24, Rey Martinez ‘26, kyle Portillo ‘24 Bottom Row: Sai Lian ‘24, Bei Hnei ‘24, Arianna Neese ‘25, Manprit Kaur ‘24, Roslin Par ‘25, Za Tluang ‘24, Isaiah Martinez-Roseman ‘26

JV1 BOYS VOLLEYBALL

Top Row: Van par’ 26, Trinity Williams’ 26, LyLy Par’ 26 Middle Row: Lal Mawia’ 25, Julio Blanco’ 26, Simeon Thang’ 27, Francis Lian’ 25 Bottom Row: Silas Thang’ 25, Daniel Ding Sa’ 26, Isaiah Martinez-Roseman’ 26, Cung Thawng’ 26, Rey Martinez’ 26

JV2 BOYS VOLLEYBALL

Top Row: Christian Rosas ‘25, Aiden Sandler ‘27, David Morse ‘26, Christoper Cruz-Vicente ‘27 Middle Row: Ebenezer Nguntawng ‘26, Nawl Thang ‘27, Billy Thang ‘27, Moses Beimolai ‘27, Jacob Hrin ‘27 Bottom Row: Mary Tial ‘27, Moses Cung ‘26, Eh Suh Clain Phu ‘26, Sung Tial ‘27

Top Row: Coach Rachel Frantz, Chloe Frownfelter’27, Kiley Bowman’27, Asylin Bowman’24, Haidyn Coleman’25, Coach Ella Pierle Middle Row: Adelynn Davis’26, Madeline Stutz’26, Morgan Harmon’26, Macy Mollett’27, Ava Stacey’27, Hannah Neuman’26, Addison Best’26 Bottom Row: Estella Nool’27, Gretchen Turner’24, Christina Par’27, Joclynn Wiles’27, Hayley Holland’26, Esbeydi Montes’24

Left to Right: Mr. Jim Aliff, Braden McIntire ‘25, Evan Meredith ‘24, Tyler Pierle ‘26, Matthew Youmans ‘24, Jack Turner ‘25, Donovan Brewer ‘25, Mr Samuel Hanley

BOYS LACROSSE

Top Row: John ferguson, James Thorpe, Scott Montgomery, Jacqueline reed, Matthew breedlove 4th Row: Echo Wyant ‘25, Allyson Kiefner ‘26, Keyona Graham ‘25, arcy Leber ‘24, Molly Hodge ‘24 3rd Row: Kiona Gomez ‘26, Loreli Bennett ‘27, Tara Steeb ‘25, Molly Taylor ‘24, Adyson Stansbury ‘26, Nola Linson ‘25 2nd Row: Patience Innis ‘24, Kayden Hernandez ‘27, Oreal Johnson ‘24, Kaylee Hope ‘25, Addison Mosley ‘25 Bottom Row: Meadow Warfield ‘27, Abigail Williams ‘26, Malia Breedlove ‘26, Sophia Ornelas ‘26, Hayli Phoenix ‘27, Ava Thorpe ‘27

Top Row: Emily Anglin, Felicia Cooper, Raya Booth, Nolan Remsburg Bottom Row: Abigail Kelley ‘26, Riley Shirely ‘26, Mercedes Tellechea ‘24

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