20 20 PORTLEDGE SCHOOL Athletic Awards
PORTLEDGE ATHLETIC AWARDS TABLE OF CONTENTS
4-6 Varsity Girls Tennis 7-10 Varsity Girls Soccer 11-13 Varsity Cross Country 14-16 Varsity Boys Soccer 17-19 Junior Varsity Boys Basketball 20-22 Varsity Girls Basketball 23-25 Varsity Boys Basketball 26-28 Varsity Boys 'B' Hockey 29-32 Varsity Boys Hockey 33-35 Varsity Girls Hockey 36-39 Varsity Squash 40-44 5th Year Awards 45 Special Recognition 46 Athletic Hall of Fame 47 Congratulations Video 48-51 Senior Tributes
04 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY GIRLS TENNIS SEASON RECAP The Portledge Girls Varsity Tennis Team made it to the semifinals in the PSAA league this year. The newly formed doubles team of Cassandra OswaldPisarski ‘23 and Bianca Anderson ‘22 had an impressive season, winning 7 of their 8 matches together. They were an integral part of the team’s success this year along with the combined efforts of all the athletes. The team is excited to grow and be even stronger next season.
Samantha Worth
Ines Juguet
Bianca Anderson
05 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY GIRLS TENNIS MOST VALUABLE PLAYER This player played first singles throughout the entire season this year and could outperform any member on the team. As a sophomore, this was her first time taking the challenge of always facing the toughest member of the opposing team and she took it on readily. She might not have always won, but she always made a vital difference because she gave the rest of the girls in the lineup a fighting chance against their opponents. We are proud to award the Most Valuable Player for Varsity Girls Tennis to SAMANTHA WORTH.
Samantha Worth
COACHES AWARD This individual played in just about every match this season. She partook in singles and doubles, did whatever she was asked to do, and did it all with heart. If the coaches said to hit the baseline, she hit the baseline. If they told her to serve out wide, you better believe her next serve was on the singles line. A coach could not ask for a more disciplined player. We are proud to the Coaches Award for Varsity Girls Tennis to
Ines Juguet
CASSANDRA OSWALD-PISARSKI.
Bianca Anderson
06 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY GIRLS TENNIS MOST IMPROVED PLAYER This year’s most improved player continued to impress the coaching staff again and again on the tennis court. Every time she plays, she is better than the last time. Her volleys have become more fierce, her groundstrokes more consistent, and her serves are harder than ever before! She kept us in close matches and became one of the most reliable star players on this year’s team. We are proud to present the Most Improved Player award for Varsity Girls Tennis to INES JUGUET.
Samantha Worth
UNSUNG HERGO Our Unsung Hero this year could normally be found playing second doubles with Cassandra and was always a staple in the lineup. Half-way through the season, it was clear that she was going to deliver a win in every match. She quietly went 8-1 this season, producing one of the best records on the team. Although she was not always in the spotlight of Ines Juguet singles, she had a huge impact on the team and delivered without seeking praise. We are proud to award the Unsung Hero award for Varsity Girls Tennis to BIANCA . ANDERSON.
07 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY GIRLS SOCCER SEASON RECAP The 2019–20 Portledge Varsity Girls Soccer team finished the season with an overall record of 13 Wins and 5 Losses, and were the Runners Up in the Private School Athletic Association Championship. While the heartbreaking 2-1 loss to Staten Island Academy in the PSAA Championship game was tough to swallow, it should in no way diminish the outstanding season this fantastic group of athletes put together. Led by their four captains, Seniors Sophie Rosen and Charlotte Bolling, and Juniors Seraina Caviezel and Jenna Stanco, the team worked hard throughout the season to not only play winning soccer but to play the game with a sense of style and grace. Sophomore Sofia Staiano emerged as a dependable goalkeeper and played a very strong championship game, making several amazing saves to keep Portledge in that
hard-fought contest. The squad was very strong defensively with an extremely consistent center back pairing of 8th grader Daniele Beno and Freshman Jalize Irizarry, supported by an agile pair of wingbacks in Sophomore Helen Sweeney and Junior Olivia Mooney. The middle of the field was commanded by the Samantha Worth aforementioned captains Caviezel, Bolling, and Rosen, while the Portledge attack was generated by exciting wing play from Sophomores Ava Pascarella and Brooke Godsell. The team saw dynamic scoring from a group of strikers that included Freshmen Laura Narby and Delia Steiner and captain Jenna Stanco. The team also had a very strong bench as Sophomore Hannah Meyer filled in all over the field. 8th grader Leila Carnavale and 7th grader Melina Von Toussaint displayed the talent that Portledge Varsity Girls Soccer has coming up through the ranks. We bid a fond farewell to Sophie Rosen and Charlotte Bolling, both of whom were members of several championship teams and look forward to a continuation of beautiful soccer from the Varsity Girls Soccer team.
Bianca Anderson
08 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY GIRLS SOCCER MOST VALUABLE PLAYER Until a wickedly driven ball hit her in the head and resulted in a concussion, this year's Most Valuable Player was by far the most exciting and most dominating player in the PSAA Varsity Girls Soccer League. Her end to end goal scoring rush down the left side against Staten Island Academy on Founders’ Day was the most dynamic play of the season and was just one of many such efforts from the speedy forward who went on to lead this Panthers team in scoring, carrying the offensive play throughout the season. While she struggled a bit to find her postconcussion rhythm, this player still gave it her all game in and game out. It is unique to have such a young player be so committed to the team, but that is exactly why LAURA NARBY is this year’s Portledge Varsity Girls Soccer Most Valuable Player.
Samantha Worth
COACHES AWARD Every characteristic you could think of that goes into making a good leader is possessed by the recipient of this year’s Coaches Award. She expects a great deal of herself and of her team and consistently leads by example to set a tone that matches her expectations. She treats all teammates and coaches with dignity and kindness, and in return receives a tremendous amount of respect from everyone involved in Ines Juguet Portledge Varsity Girls Soccer. We all feel lucky that we will have her leadership and dedicated spirit for one more year because she is the ultimate captain. Congratulations to this year’s Coaches Award recipient, SERAINA CAVIEZEL.
09 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY GIRLS SOCCER MOST IMPROVED PLAYER It is with head-spinning thoughts about the future that coaches would like to recognize this year’s Most Improved Player. When the season started we wondered if she would make it through pre-season training, much less become a key part of the team. Blessed with skill and speed that makes her immediately stand out, this player worked hard throughout the season to develop the toughness and field awareness that is necessary to becoming a successful Varsity Girls Soccer player. She consistently soaked up instruction and applied it to her play on the field, and over the season grew into an outstanding midfielder. We look forward to her continued growth as part of the Varsity Girls Soccer program. Congratulations to this year’s most deserving recipient of the Most Improved Player Award in Varsity Girls Soccer, 7th grader
Samantha Worth
MELINA VONTOUSSAINT.
UNSUNG HERO The coaches did not have to debate long as to the recipient of the Unsung Hero Award in Varsity Girls Soccer because it is so clearly deserved by this year’s center back and leader of the defense. She is always ready to do the dirty work of breaking up the other team’s attacks and winning balls so that Portledge can go on the offense. Ines Juguet She does this without bringing any attention to herself, except through incredibly fine play. There is no doubt as to this year’s Unsung Hero in Varsity Girls Soccer – it is JALIZE IRIZARRY.
10 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY GIRLS SOCCER CLASS OF 2007 AWARD This award is given in the name of those members of the Class of 2007 who as freshmen were part of the original Varsity Girls Soccer team and then went on to play all four years on the squad. It recognizes the spirit and camaraderie that those athletes brought to the start of Girls Soccer here at Portledge and that in many ways seems to live on in the program year after year. This year’s recipient fits perfectly with the spirit of this award as she always put the team first and provided the type of benevolent leadership that is cherished within Portledge Athletics. Thus, it is with sincere fondness that we celebrate Charlotte Bolling’s career as a member of the Varsity Girls Soccer team with the Class of 2007 Award.
Samantha Worth
CHARLOTTE BOLLING
Ines Juguet
11 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY CROSS COUNTRY SEASON RECAP This was an incredible season for Portledge Cross Country. Both the female and male teams made a podium finish at the PSAA Cross Country Championships. There were remarkable performances by several of our athletes including that of our top runner, Christopher Lall ‘21. Christopher found success in competing at both PSAA meets as well as state and national meets. Our shining freshman class also had an outstanding season. Several ninth-graders stepped up and became integral members of our team including, but not limited to, Ramsey Cammerer, Tatyana Neugebauer, and Alexander Simms. The coaching staff was proud of watching our team this season and is excited for the next season to come.
Samantha Worth
Bianca Anderson
12 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY CROSS COUNTRY MOST VALUABLE PLAYER Our team is filled with hard-working athletes that strive toward being better. But one athlete stands out. This person has been one of our top runners since he was a freshman. He is consistently working toward being one of the fastest runners in our league, as well as the state. This athlete has been one of the top 2 runners at every PSAA meet this season. His work ethic is inspiring, and he pushes himself at not only Portledge cross country practices but at practices outside of school as well. It is clear why he is now one of the fastest runners. Portledge Cross Country has achieved a 3rd place finish at the PSAA Championship Meet for the first time and it is in large part due to the 2nd place overall finish by this athlete. Congratulations to this year’s Most Valuable Player for Varsity Cross Country, CHRISTOPHER LALL.
Samantha Worth
COACHES AWARD The coaches believe that in any part of life, hard work pays off. This person exemplifies that mantra. Although it is only his first year running Cross Country, he immediately stepped into a leadership role. His determined work ethic and unstoppable drive not only improved his own running performance but Ines Juguet pushed others on the team to be great. He leads by example and it has helped our team achieve the goals we were working toward. The "coaches award" goes to someone the coach feels they could not operate without. This person is that athlete. Congratulations to this year’s Coaches Award recipient for Varsity Cross Country CHRISTIAN MASTACCIUOLA.
Bianca Anderson
13 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY CROSS COUNTRY MOST IMPROVED PLAYER One athlete on our team has risen above all others in terms of their improvement from year to year, and meet to meet. It is no surprise to see these huge jumps in speed when you see how hard this person works in practice. While most athletes improve by small amounts over long periods of time, this athlete has taken minutes off of their personal best runs. In only her second year with the cross country team, she is one of our strongest runners and has earned Portledge points in every meet this season. She was a major factor in the Portledge women's team winning 3rd place at the PSAA championship meet. Congratulations to this year’s Most Improved Player for Varsity Cross Country,
Samantha Worth
ANA VISSICCHIO.
UNSUNG HERO This athlete has been running with the cross country team since she was a freshman. She may not always see herself in this way, but she is an inspirational leader on this team. Her Ines Juguet constant pursuit of excellence goes beyond her physical performances. She is a leader in her actions and attitude. She mentors the newer athletes and demonstrates on a daily basis what it means to push yourself to your own personal limits. This athlete lives by the saying "work hard, stay humble.” Many people might not notice how big a role she plays on this team, including her. But having this person on our team is an important piece to our success. Congratulations to this year’s Unsung Hero award recipient,
KATHERINE WU Bianca Anderson
14 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY BOYS SOCCER SEASON RECAP The players on the Varsity Boys Soccer team came together to compete against high-level Samantha Worth opponents this fall. The team’s young players showed great potential and were guided by strong leadership from their seniors. The group, despite being the overall youngest team in the league, had the most daring game proposal, filled with heart and character. The team is learning, growing, and moving closer towards its goal of a PSAA Championship. Farewell and good luck to all the seniors!
Bianca Anderson
15 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY BOYS SOCCER MOST VALUABLE PLAYER Everyone looked to the big man to carry us through the challenges and translate hard work and effort into wins. That is telling of how important this player is in the group. If we were able to dream in certain moments with better outcomes, I think everyone agrees that it was because this athlete showed us that it was possible. The 6 goals(!) against La Scuola d'Italia that sent Portledge into the playoffs are perhaps the most visible example of this player’s value to the team, but there are others. Dealing with injury and other frustrations didn’t affect his attitude before each game. He always set foot on the field with one thing in mind, regardless of conditions. He is a dreamer that understands that it is essential to believe in the beauty of his dreams and actively pursue them! Congratulations to this year’s Most Valuable Player for Varsity Boys Soccer,
Samantha Worth
LUCA CAVIEZEL.
COACHES AWARD Playing and working for his fellow teammates first and always, that’s what comes to mind when the coaches think of this year’s Coaches Award recipient. This player left no one indifferent to his performances – teammates and opponents alike. He conquered the respect of everyone he faced with his undying Ines Juguet dedication to each play and to his team. There are many ways to play the game; many ways to win games; there are also many things that could be said about this player, but there’s one that may be best describes what he is like (one that Coach Pedro said and repeated a few times during the season, with no demerit to his any of his teammate’s efforts and qualities): Regardless of position, technique and tactical knowledge, with eleven “Sweeneys” on the field, Portledge would win the league!! He is hard work personified if we have ever seen it! Congratulations to this year’s Coaches Award winner for Varsity Boys Soccer, SEAN SWEENEY. Bianca Anderson
16 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY BOYS SOCCER MOST IMPROVED PLAYER What a great surprise this player turned out to be this year. Going from sporadic participation last season to being a permanent feature this season, and playing almost every minute of every game. This was no “creation” of the coaching staff, instead it was his personable and consistent performances at training and games that propelled him to a really strong season. Technically speaking, this player debunked any idea that there is a right way to play the game or the right model of a soccer player. With what can only be called a very unorthodox style and technique, he impacted greatly each game, efficiently and inspiringly. It was interesting and often funny to see how opponents would look to attack the side opposite to his after realizing that he was virtually unbeatable – and that includes the league’s top players. In his zone, he was the top player! Congratulations to this year's Most Improved Player for Varsity Boys Soccer, KEVIN CAYEMITTE.
Samantha Worth
UNSUNG HERO Throughout his last season at Portledge this individual – unsurprisingly - showed a great sense of responsibility and mission. Game after game, training upon training, he looked Ines Juguet to improve himself while always being a good teammate - helping others and leading by example. A great example of his dedication, altruism and class is the fact that he has played numerous positions in the years he has been with the team without ever questioning why and instead, questioning how he could best perform and help the team in his assigned role. Congratulations to this year's Unsung Hero for Varsity Boys Soccer, SHAWN KELLY.
Bianca Anderson
17 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
JUNIOR VARSITY BOYS BASKETBALL SEASON RECAP
Samantha Worth
When the coaches think of the Junior Varsity Basketball season this year they think of persistence, fortitude, and family. Although initially, the expectations were low, this amazing team changed that thinking after the first couple of games. The boys played hard every practice and game and never quit on each other. The amount of times they picked each other up and helped each other out shows the true definition of family. What we lacked in skill, we made up in heart. Some of the best highlights of the season was seeing the team not back down from a tall, furious and undefeated League champion, Evangel Christian. The fight and drive they displayed during this particular game were like no other. Seeing some of the kids who didn’t play much stick with it and find the fun within the games and practices was another highlight. But the best highlight was finishing Conference play with an 11-3 record, which secured us Champions of the Eastern Division. “Thank you to Coach Sully who made this season easier by building a great rapport with each and every player on the team. This is by far one of the best teams I have been a part of as a coach and I look forward to a great season next year. - Coach Isaiah”
Bianca Anderson
18 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
JUNIOR VARSITY BOYS BASKETBALL
Samantha Worth
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER This player was a tremendous leader for the JV Boys Basketball team this season. His passion for the game, love for his teammates, and desire to be great put him in a position to win this award. When reflecting on his season, it is not the multiple 20-point games that stand out, but the hours that he spent, and continues to spend, in the gym. Often, if you pass through or by the gym at Portledge during the school day you can find this player there working on his game in a full sweat! After practice, coaches would have to kick him out of the gym because all he wanted to do was get better! This player has progressed so much as a player, and he garnered All-Division honors. He is undoubtedly deserving of the team MVP. Congratulations to this year's Most Valuable Player for JV Boys Basketball, ELI SANDY.
COACHES AWARD This player arguably could have been the recipient of any award this season due to his fantastic play on the court, leadership qualities, and tireless work ethic. However, after the coaches spent time thinking this Ines Juguet award through, they decided this individual is what each coach envisions as the focal point of their team, and that is why he is the recipient of this year’s Coaches Award. He served as a coach on the court, directing players where to be and what sets to run. When the offense broke down, he took over and pushed those around him to be their best every day of the season. It was a true joy to coach him this season, and the program is excited to see this individual excel both on and off the court! Congratulations to this year's Coaches Award Winner for JV Boys Basketball,
JOE SCANDALIOS.
19 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
JUNIOR VARSITY BOYS BASKETBALL
Samantha Worth
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER This player joined the JV Boys Basketball team this year and improved tremendously throughout the season. He remained dedicated to his development, committed to his team, and eager to grow as a complete student-athlete. His role gradually grew as the season progressed and that was a testament to his hard work. His solid fundamentals progressed to a point where the team leaned on him in crucial moments and he was called upon by his peers to play an important role in games. This player’s season was highlighted by scoring a career-high in points during a league contest, and also knocking down free-throws in the playoffs. Most notably, this player never missed a practice and led by example! Congratulations to this year's Most Improved Player for JV Boys Basketball, ALEX SIMMS.
UNSUNG HERO Like many of those in athletics know, it is not easy to take a new group of freshman and sophomore athletes, bring them together in a short period of time, and create a winning Ines Juguet culture. That is why it is imperative to have players like our Unsung Hero. This individual cultivated joy around the program, not to gain more playing time or be the best player, but simply because he cares about his school and his teammates. He was vocal in each game, attended every practice with a tremendous work ethic, and always did the little things that never show up in the scorebook. Congratulations to this year’s Unsung Hero for JV Boys Basketball, SAM JOHNSON.
20 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY GIRLS BASKETBALL SEASON RECAP The 2019-2020 Portledge Varsity Women’s Basketball Season was filled with trials Samantha and Worth triumphs that landed us the title as undefeated PSAA League Champions. This could not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of every single player in the face of adversity. Whether it was opening the season against State Champions Holy Trinity, or competing in the most difficult non-league schedule in the history of the program, our athletes were constantly called to step up as both leaders and athletes and they did not disappoint. The team was led by tremendous captains who all played integral parts this season. Despite being injured, Captain Alexa Terico ‘20 continued to support her teammates at games and practices, and she really evolved as a leader. Our other captains did a great job of bonding the team together and instilling a hard-working mentality day in and day out. The coaches were thrilled to see several unsung heroes step up in ways that take most athletes several seasons. One of our most improved juniors became one of the best rebounders on the team. When one of our sophomores earned her spot as a starter, the coaches couldn’t decide what was more delightful, her efforts or the efforts of our captains encouraging her through the process. Thank you to all the players for an incredible season.
Bianca Anderson
21 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY GIRLS BASKETBALL MOST VALUABLE PLAYER When a coach looks for senior leadership it does not always equate to a tremendous player. In the case of this year’s Most Valuable Player, it was a perfect blend of a dedicated and talented player with leadership skills both on and off the court. What makes an MVP is a work ethic second to none, which this studentathlete displayed throughout the season. Game in game out, the effort was always there even when other teams constantly double-teamed her. Rather than getting frustrated, she worked harder and harder to get her teammates involved. This player was our leading scorer but what truly made her an MVP was the respect she gained from the other players and coaches. During the PSAA Championship game, she drained a deep 3-pointer from the top of the arc with about one second left in the 3rd quarter to extend our lead to 3623. As quoted by Newsday, “The momentum of the game was turning and a double-teamed senior captain nailed a 3 to right the ship.” That’s what makes an MVP. Congratulations to this year’s Most Valuable Player for Varsity Girls Basketball, SARAH BUONAGURO.
Samantha Worth
COACHES AWARD No coaching staff can be successful unless there is a distinct and dominant floor general to run the show on the court. This player is a textbook floor general and an extremely talented player on both ends of the court. Running the show with the respect of her Inesall Juguet teammates was a role she willingly took on and exceeded all expectations. Whether it was defining an issue on the court or handling an off-court situation as captain, she mediated with respect and professionalism and led by example. Getting the ball to the right person at the right time, pulling up at the top of the key for a 3-pointer when needed and getting a key steal, were just some of her unsung accomplishments this season. The PSAA playoff MVP is this year’s Coaches Award Recipient and she is the glue that kept everything together. Congratulations to this year’s Coaches Award Recipient for Varsity Girls Basketball, BELLA GREENWALD.
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VARSITY GIRLS BASKETBALL Samantha Worth
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER With a new coaching staff coming in and this individual recovering from a soccer injury, time was not exactly on her side. Her playing time varied with each game but one thing that did not vary was this student athlete’s hard, tireless efforts at practice when called upon early in the season. Her work ethic and dedication were quickly noticed by the staff. As she was given more and more playing time, she became a vital defender and rebounder in our quest for the 3rd title in a row. She met a defined and prominent role and her development as both a player and person made a huge contribution to the undefeated championship run. While hustle does not necessarily show up in the box score, hard work will always pay off. She worked hard and absolutely earned this award. Congratulations to this year’s Most Improved Player for Varsity Girls Basketball, JENNA STANCO.
UNSUNG HERO An unsung hero is someone who steps up when necessary and constantly works hard. This hard work is usually exclusively reflected in a player’s athletic skills. This year, our unsung hero is someone who not only worked hard physically but also tirelessly worked to keep the team running efficiently. She always did the right thing. Whether it meant taking a headcount Ines Juguet on our bus before we set out for an away game, or constantly guiding the players on the court, she rose to the occasion of being a leader and her unsung accomplishments played a major role in leading the team to the PSAA Championship. She does the right thing, not for the praise, but for the love of the game and her teammates. A true leader does not reign in vain but serves to benefit a larger, selfless goal. And that is what makes her a true unsung hero. Congratulations to this year’s Unsung Hero award recipient for Varsity Girls Basketball,
CAMI KLEINWAKS.
23 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY BOYS BASKETBALL SEASON RECAP Entering his third season as Head Coach, Coach Nick and the team set an exceedingly high bar with lofty expectations. The Athletic Department and coaching staff made a strategic decision to move up a division in the NYSAIS Post-Season Tournament, from class C to class B. This season we achieved a level of success that far exceeded not just the coaching staff’s expectations, but those of the rest of the State. As an extremely undersized team, which played most games with 7-8 players, the Portledge Boys Varsity Basketball team made a lot of noise, and received accolades that were recognized not just locally or regionally, but statewide. Continuing his impressive career, Zaire Baines ‘22 made history by being the youngest player in New York State history to break 2,000 career points. There are only 11 players in Long Island basketball history who have achieved such a scoring feat. He is on pace to break the all-time record of 2799 points, and possibly the New York State record should he continue this torrid pace. His teammate Jahmir Primer ‘21 also had an impressive season, becoming 1 of 17 players in Long Island history to have over 1,500 points, 500 rebounds and 300 assists with still another season to play. Adding to this, both Primer and Baines were named among the Top-100 Basketball Players on Long Island by Newsday for the 2019-2020 season. Portledge basketball truly had a Cinderella season.
Samantha Worth
The league championship game was a true David vs Goliath story, with Portledge facing a tall and strong Evangel Christian. The entire team stepped up and put up a hard-fought battle, losing only in the final seconds on a put-back shot. The season didn’t end there though. The team was ranked as the number one seed in the NYSAIS Post Season Tournament and showed heart and determination, making it to the Championship game and battling hard against a much larger and deeper Poly Prep squad. There are many positives to take away from this season and the coaching staff is eager to get back in the gym with the players to continue working towards their goal of being State Champions.
Bianca Anderson
24 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY BOYS BASKETBALL Samantha Worth
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER The most valuable player is the player who contributes the most to his or her team's success. The real question is how do you define value? It is not a simple answer. Obviously, individual statistics need to be considered. But I think team record should be considered as well because ultimately winning is the point of the game. If your team is not winning are you really adding value? If you want to be technical about this decision, one could consider which player if removed from the team would be most devastating to the results. But basketball is a team game, not an individual one, and team makeup and chemistry makes a difference. One of our players was a scoring champion, another averaged a double-double in points and rebounds, another a defensive specialist who took on the opposing team’s best player, had the most blocked shots, most rebounds and was the glue of our team. However, I believe that playing sports is not all about winning at all costs. Sometimes the passion and the love for the game that we start out with can be lost, and it is important to remember why we play. There is a real art in losing well and a special pride found in personal achievement and having a go. This year's MVP is a player who may not be our most talented but he is still the most deserved of the honor. He is a young man who did not touch the court much but did touch his teammates and coach’s admiration. This year’s MVP is SHAWN KELLY.
COACHES AWARD
The Coaches Award is about a player that shows Ines Juguet commitment and genuine interest in the game. The honor recognizes the strength of an individual’s character and tremendous sportsmanship, someone who listens to the coach’s decision in position placements each week, regardless of whether he agrees or not. This player has the ability to consistently communicate with his teammates, to move around multiple screens, to reach down and find the extra energy required to chase around the opponent's top offensive threat or hit the big shot, especially when coming off the bench. This young man, while not being a starting player, had a huge impact on every game this season and is not just a great basketball player, but a great person. Congratulations to this year’s Coaches Award recipient for Varsity Boys Basketball, ANTHONY FOLLET.
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VARSITY BOYS BASKETBALL MOST IMPROVED PLAYER Recognition of accomplishments or success is most important in every field of life because it encourages others to perform at their best whenever they step on the court. This year’s Most Improved Player does not lead in any statistics but has worked extremely hard on his shooting form, ballhandling, and knowledge of the overall game all season. He has greatly improved this season, often staying after practice to perfect skills. Congratulations to this year’s Most Improved Player for Varsity Boys Basketball, ANDY SUN.
UNSUNG HERO
There are varying pieces of criteria for our Unsung Hero this year. He is a player coaches would love to clone, a player whose name will bring a smile to his coach’s face a couple of years after he graduates. An Unsung Hero often does not always get the attention or the accolades of his teammates and coaches come to “expect” their Unsung Hero to do the right thing. Sometimes it is by playing an unheralded position or by being a role player who sees somewhatInes Juguet significant snaps. This player stepped up for his teammates in highly competitive games and has a long and great career ahead of him as one of the best in the backcourt. He is a player who leads his team on the court by example and gets teammates involved. When the team needed a burst of energy on defense, this player would step up, get a steal and change the momentum of the game. He is an extension of the coaches on the floor and consistently shows tremendous leadership skills. In terms of mental and physical toughness, there are few players at his age that are tougher than him. Congratulations to this year’s Unsung Hero for Varsity Boys Basketball, CHRISTIAN DALEY.
26 | 2020 ATHLETIC AWARDS
VARSITY BOYS 'B' HOCKEY SEASON RECAP This season, our goal was to create a healthy competitive environment on a new team forWorth Samantha our program, one that prepared players for the Varsity team. Our team this year was made up of an interesting group filled with players from grades seven through ten, all ranging in size and ability. The coaching staff worked hard at coaching each student in the areas they needed so as to prepare them to make the jump to even more competitive play when that day arrives. All players improved in both skill level and maturity through dedication to practices. The improvement of on-ice skill sets was exciting to watch and culminated in the team having an over .500 record and making the playoffs, an amazing feat for the first year of the team! A major highlight was one of the final home games of the season against Poly Prep, a team that had previously defeated us earlier in the season. The game went into an exciting overtime and Portledge was victorious! Everyone played hard, the team came back, and it was great to see the group define themselves at that moment.
Bianca Anderson
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VARSITY BOYS 'B' HOCKEY MOST VALUABLE PLAYER This year’s Most Valuable Player is a player that thrived in the net and was the true backbone of the team this season. Whenever the team went flat he stepped up big, made a huge save, and helped change the momentum of the game. Off the ice, he was a great leader and respected by all of his teammates. A special highlight for this player was making over 50 saves in a huge overtime win this season. Congratulations to this year’s Most Valuable Player for Varsity Boys ‘B’ Hockey, FRITZ ROSS
COACHES AWARD This player is a true student of the game. He consistently put the team first above his personal goals and always led by example. He was eager to get back on the ice as soon as he got off and supported his teammates at an exceptional level. This player shows tremendous potential as a player and a leader and the coaches are excited to Ines Juguet see his hockey career in the coming years. Congratulations to this year’s Coaches Award recipient for Varsity Boys ‘B’ Hockey,
TANNER TERRANOVA.
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VARSITY BOYS 'B' HOCKEY MOST IMPROVED PLAYER This player only got better and better with each practice and game. His love of hockey is evident and his work ethic is admirable. He was very flexible, jumping from playing forward to defense and the coaches and players loved his energy on the bench. This player has a great head on his shoulders and despite not being the most skilled, he showed the most heart. The coaches look forward to continuing to work with this individual. Congratulations to this year’s Most Improved Player for Varsity Boys ‘B’ Hockey, REESE BARNETT.
UNSUNG HERO This year’s Unsung Hero award goes to an individual who joined the Portledge community late into the season and provided leadership, skill and energy to the team. He is big, strong, and a very tough opponent to compete against. He put the team on his back day after day and never looked for recognition or accolades. He was a Ines Juguet silent leader who supported his teammates and did anything asked of him. Congratulations to this year’s Unsung Hero for Varsity Boys ‘B’ Hockey,
PATRICK WALRATH.
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VARSITY BOYS HOCKEY SEASON RECAP This year was a major change for the Varsity Boys Team, with the restructuring of the coaching staff, now being headed by Coach DiPietro and assisted by Coach Kolb and Coach DiMitri. The players this year were asked to be “All In,” to play with the mindset that success isn’t free, and the athletes all bought into this mentality. Regardless of the day or practice time, including those early 6:00 AM practices, every player showed up with a great attitude, ready to improve and compete. The team fought through injuries and faced adverse conditions but never gave up or made excuses. The coaching staff couldn’t be prouder of this group of young men. The season started with a huge overtime winning goal scored by Brandon Avezov ‘20. We saw teammates offer their equipment for others, including Nolan Ort ‘20 giving the tape off of his shin pads to Vitaly Levy ‘21 for his ankles mid-game so that Vitaly could get back on the ice in the game at Princeton Day School. Back in the game, Vitaly ended up passing the puck to Joey Sciabarra ‘21 who scored the overtime win for a start to finish “all-in” moment. These are memories the coaching staff and team will never forget. We look forward to coming back stronger next season and fighting for the MAHL Cup, but will definitely miss our seniors: Brandon “AV” Avezov, George Anderson, Mikey Stevens, Nolan Ort, and Dylan Newitz. We wish you all the best and expect to see you back to support us next season!
Samantha Worth
Bianca Anderson
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VARSITY BOYS HOCKEY MOST VALUABLE PLAYER At the start of the season it was unclear who would be the anchor for the team between the pipes, but as the year unfolded, it became evident who would lead this team and set the tone each and every game. This player really stepped up and was dominant in the net, giving the team a chance to win every night, even when outmatched by our opponents. Although he was unsure of his abilities at the start of the season, by the end of the season he was a top performer in the MAHL and was a tough opponent for the top New England Prep Schools. Congratulations to this year’s Most Valuable Player for Varsity Boys Hockey, JAKE ANDERSON.
COACHES AWARD The first Coaches Award goes to a player who is undoubtedly a high caliber hockey player. It was clear he was one of the best players on the ice every time he touched it. This year, he developed into more than just a player; he became a trueInes Juguet leader. He led by example on defense, playing half of the game most nights. He set the tone on the ice and always pushed himself and his teammates to excel. This player was also recognized with league honors. Congratulations to this year’s Coaches Award Winner for Varsity Boys Hockey,
JOEY SCIABARRA.
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VARSITY BOYS HOCKEY COACHES AWARD The second Coaches Award goes to a player that has been on the team since 8th grade. This year he played a vital part in the team and the team’s success. But he is more than just a skilled hockey player. He is a leader, a workhorse, a warrior, and would always fill any role on the ice that the coaches requested. He is irreplaceable, and it is difficult to put into writing how important he is to this team and this program. It’s very rare in a coach’s tenure to come across such a player as deserving of this award. Congratulations to this year’s winner for the Coaches Award for Varsity Boys Hockey, .
VITALY LEVYY
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER The coaching staff saw tremendous improvement in this player this past season and it made for an easy decision for this award. This player struggled at times last year during his sophomore year, but Ines Juguet this year he really stepped up his game and filled a vital role for the team, anchoring the defense. He logged big minutes for the team and earned the respect of his teammates and opponents. The coaching staff is excited about what lays ahead for this individual. Congratulations to this year’s Most Improved Player for Varsity Boys Hockey,
TUCKER CORWEN.
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VARSITY BOYS HOCKEY UNSUNG HERO While the coaching staff debated what truly quantifies an “Unsung Hero” they ran across this quote, “Unsung heroes are committed to giving more than they take. They are focused on the big picture and are willing to sacrifice time and effort for the good of others.” That quote perfectly describes this year’s recipient of the Unsung Hero Award. No player on the ice or in the locker room encompasses this spirit more than this player. His ability to lead through example, seek no recognition in the process, and put in his all for the good of the team is inspiring. While he is a very good hockey player, he has something more substantial: character. Congratulations to this year’s Unsung Hero award recipient,
GAVIN MCDONALD.
Ines Juguet
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VARSITY GIRLS HOCKEY SEASON RECAP The Portledge Varsity Girls Hockey team was crowned the 2020 WIHLMA Champions after Samantha Worth beating Shady Side Academy in the championship game by a score of 4-3 in overtime. The team's winning season included highlight wins against Morristown-Beard, Shady Side, and a thrilling tie in a non-conference game against Millbrook. The team graduates 5 dedicated seniors, Alexa Aureliano (USC '24), Anna Hamid (Cortland '24), Emma Hayes (Nazareth '24), Lexi Hoffmann (Elmira '24), and Ava Salerno (UNE '24). We thank our seniors for their leadership, commitment, and dedication to our program and we look forward to continuing this success in the 2020-2021 season.
Bianca Anderson
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VARSITY GIRLS HOCKEY MOST VALUABLE PLAYER Our Most Valuable Player this season served as a Co-Captain this season and was a top defenseman on our blueline. She led by example in all that she did, whether it was in the classroom, on the ice, or in the weight room. She dominated in all areas of the ice by using her speed and high-level hockey IQ to shut down opponents and contribute to our team's success. She was heavily relied on, executed in every game situation, and played a major role in leading our team to the 2020 WIHLMA Championship. Congratulations to this year’s Most Valuable Player for Varsity Girls Hockey,
LEXI HOFFMANN.
COACHES AWARD Our Coaches Award this season goes to a player who completed her 5th season as a Panther and also served as Co-Captain. Her commitment, dedication, and passion for our team was evident on the ice, in the weight room, and on campus. She went above and beyond to lead our team, always followed the Ines Juguet game plan, and helped build a strong team culture. She was always very respectful, ensured that there was always a strong team dynamic, and worked hard day in and day out to set the example for her teammates. We thank her for her strong leadership and for being such a strong contributor to the Varsity Girls Hockey program as a whole. Congratulations to this year’s Coaches Award recipient, EMMA HAYES.
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VARSITY GIRLS HOCKEY MOST IMPROVED PLAYER Our Most Improved Player this season demonstrated an outstanding work ethic and a consistent willingness to learn and develop her game. On the ice, she was also known as the "Crusher" as no opponent wanted to get caught in her presence. She was tough to play against and always gave her best effort in both practices and games. We are so proud of her growth this season and can't wait to see her continued success next year. Congratulations to this year’s Most Improved Player for Varsity Girls Hockey,
CAROLINE SCHAMIS.
UNSUNG HERO Our Unsung Hero this season served as our starting goaltender this year and was the backbone to all of our success. Her positive energy, enthusiasm, and focus helped carry the team throughout the season. She demonstrated consistency in all that she did and gave our team the confidence it needed to execute in every game. She was a selfless team player Ines andJuguet never expected any credit for her tireless efforts, however, she was a key component to leading us to our championship-winning season. Congratulations to this year’s Unsung Hero for Varsity Girls Hockey,
ANNA HAMID.
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VARSITY SQUASH SEASON RECAP Portledge Squash has gained popularity over the years in both the Middle and Upper school Samantha Worth hallways. The try-out process for a highly coveted spot on the varsity team is the talk of the town with over 50 student’s trying out for a spot on the team this past season. The final roster was filled with the top 16 players. Portledge Squash has achieved many accolades over the past few years. Due to our higher-level play, we were chosen to play in the first-ever NYSAIS State Tournament, seeded 6th out of 8 teams. With our dedication and commitment to getting back to the US High School National Championship, the world's largest squash competition, the team worked hard, with a goal to move up a division. The results were impressive as each player played for their personal and team win. US Squash respectfully nominated two of our outstanding players as All Americans and they were the only two girls to be nominated in the boys’ division. Currently, Portledge Squash is ranked the highest on Long Island.
Bianca Anderson
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VARSITY SQUASH MOST VALUABLE PLAYER Four years of attacking her game of Squash at Portledge has earned her total respect and national ranking in the United States. As a Senior Co-Captain, she was the best overall complete-player holding her place at the top of the ladder. This year she found her coaching voice and became the team motivator. She worked on and off the court, encouraging every player to be their best, with the goal of wanting everyone to win. When she got on the court at the number 1 position she showed everyone what the Most Valuable Player plays like. When other coaches would watch her play against their top male player, they were in awe of her ability to play at such a high level. This young lady has so many achievements at Portledge most notably being the first player who competed in the NYSAIS Quarter Finals and played at the number one position. With hard work and training, she also played in the #1 position for 2 years in a row at the US High School National Squash Tournament. She ended this year ranked 18th in the nation for all junior girls nationally. Additionally, she was nominated by US Squash to be an All American in the boys’ division. Congratulations to this year’s Most Valuable Player for Varsity Squash,CALLIE DELALIO. Ines Juguet
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VARSITY SQUASH COACHES AWARD This young lady brings her “A” game to practice every day with a smile. She is a three-sport athlete and a hardcore competitor. She doesn't like to lose, and each year she plays, she learns and takes to heart that she won the opportunity to make the highly coveted position on the varsity team, something she never takes for granted. She shows her appreciation to her coaches and to her team by getting everyone fired up and or just being a complete goofball off the court and on the bus. She is fun to have on the team. Her kind personality, team spirit and positive attitude is a coach's dream. Congratulations to this year's Coaches Award recipient for Varsity Squash,
MOLLY BARDONG.
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER This young man, with books in hand, completely changed his athletic journey this year. Hockey was his calling, his sport, a very important member of an elite team. After listening to other squash players, he became intrigued. Fortunately he picked up a squash racket and he was hooked at the physicality of the Inesout Juguet game, as well as the mental strategy of figuring your opponent's weakness. He made up his mind to learn the game, and he learned it quickly. He practiced outside of school so that he could better understand the game and to build the stamina to play and win. For never playing squash, this gentleman made the Varsity team and played at the number 3 and 4 position. Congratulations to this year’s Most Improved Player for Varsity Squash,
JACK KUGLER.
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VARSITY SQUASH UNSUNG HERO This 4-year squash player managed to maintain phenomenal grades, a daily squash and fitness routine, and lead the team as the Co-Captain. She demonstrated many admirable qualities on and off the court this year, such as mentoring the younger players, making the practices fun, and searching out the best cup of coffee in the land as she traveled the United States playing squash. Always playing in the second position after her twin sister can’t be easy but she did it with grace and sportsmanship, proving herself more than deserving of this recognition. She is a very talented and competitive player which is proven by her nomination as an All American by US Squash in the boys division. Congratulations to this year’s Unsung Hero award recipient, TANA DELALIO.
Ines Juguet
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5TH YEAR AWARD AVA SALERNO: VARSITY GIRLS HOCKEY BY PHIL HILLS
Samantha Worth
To watch Ava score the last two goals of the season that propelled Portledge Girls Hockey to a Mid Atlantic Championship was equivalent to watching someone graduate. It was as if five seasons of learning from both success and failure all added up to victory in the end for this amazing and dedicated athlete. Although she struggled against herself at times, Ava learned how to rise to the occasion at the most important time and help her team secure the ultimate prize. Portledge Girls Ice Hockey has been lucky to have a leader like Ava as part of the program and she richly deserves the recognition that comes along with this Five Year Award.
Bianca Anderson
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5TH YEAR AWARD EMMA HAYES: VARSITY GIRLS HOCKEY BY PHIL HILLS
Samantha Worth
Emma Hayes’ five years of participation as a member of the Varsity Girls Ice Hockey team has significantly impacted the program. During her career, the squad steadily improved and the process culminated in a Mid Atlantic championship during her senior season. Individually, Emma has consistently been a dominant offensive player that has always been able to score critical gamewinning goals. Emma’s speed, grit, determination, and all-around fine play will be sorely missed by the program she has so ably led over the last half-decade. Portledge Athletics applauds her efforts and wishes her the best as she moves on to the beginning of her college ice hockey career.
Bianca Anderson
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5TH YEAR AWARD ALEXA AURELIANO: VARSITY GIRLS HOCKEY BY MIA FAVRETTO
Samantha Worth
Congratulations to Alexa Aureliano on being a 5-year member of the Varsity Girls Hockey program. Alexa brought an unparalleled work ethic in practice and in games and her energy uplifted her teammates at any given moment. Her relentlessness, discipline, and selflessness are what will be missed most next season. We thank Alexa for making such a positive impact on our program and wish her all the best in her next endeavor at the University of South Carolina.
Bianca Anderson
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5TH YEAR AWARD LUCA CAVIEZEL: VARSITY BOYS SOCCER BY PEDRO FERNANDES Luca first caused an impression with his size, then with talent,and ultimately with his magnitude as a person. As a coach, there are several things I look for in my Player Model, besides specific physical or technical attributes. One extremely important thing is a player’s ability to be self-determined. Most of you know Luca as a calm, sweetheart of a guy, and that’s true. But I know his, mostly hidden, warrior side too. The reason why it’s hidden maybe has to do with how Luca is thoughtful and controlled. But there is plenty of fire in him. We could mention stats, highlights and overall soccer specifics, and for as much as they can indicate his great quality as a player, they would say little about Luca – he’s much more than those numbers! Often, I told Luca and his teammates that they should let themselves be inspired by the 4 classical elements of life: Earth, Water, Air, and Fire. Luca understood it! I have seen him be solid as Earth, rock, terra firm; Flowing and adaptable like Water; Light through the Air; driven and passionate like Fire. The fifth element, that energy that makes everything make sense and that we call love will round everything up. If there is one thing I have learned about Luca by witnessing his dedication in training, his relentlessness in games and the way he treated his teammates (and opponents) is that there is a great deal of love in his heart. Congratulations on his 5 years. I’m sure that from now on Luca also means Legacy!
Samantha Worth
Bianca Anderson
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5TH YEAR AWARD GEORGE ANDERSON: VARSITY GOLF BY PENNE NIEPORTE
Samantha Worth
Another element of the unknown due to a striking and ruining virus is the unknown of what senior leader and 5th-year captain George Anderson was going to do in this important role for the golf team. He, along with fellow senior Reed Rosen, was more than ready, after watching and waiting in their sophomore and junior years for this prestigious responsibility to be the leader of what was going to be a strong team. I have been honored to have George as part of the golf program for 5 years. He was always willing to help out in any way that was asked of him. His engaging smile is a charmer, and he was consistently eager to improve his skills to become a better player. Last year, he played at the top of the lineup, competing against a number of very strong number one players and did more than hold his own. What is most impressive from a high school coach’s perspective, was how George handled himself on the course when he was not having his best day. You could not tell from his demeanor, or a possible slow gate as he walked up the fairway, that he wasn’t playing as well as he was hoping to. This is a solid characteristic that tells me that George will be a success in whatever he chooses to do in life. He is positive, he is honest, and he is kind. George, I know your senior year was going to be a great one. You will be greatly missed as a vital backbone of our golf program. Bianca Anderson
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SPECIAL RECOGNITION The Athletic Department would like to take a moment to recognize two individuals who achieved personal feats that few have done in Portledge History.
Congratulations to Sarah Buonaguro ‘20 for scoring her 1,000 career point in Varsity Basketball this past 20192020 season.
Congratulations to Zaire Baines ‘22 for scoring his 2,000 career point in Varsity Basketball this past 2019-2020 season.
Bianca Anderson
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HALL OF FAME Congratulations to the 2020 inductees into the Portledge Athletic Hall of Fame: Stefanie Bishop '00 William Bodine '00 Mark Dourmashkin '10
We look to celebrating their accomplishments on Founders Day. More information to follow!
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CONGRAULATIONS! On behalf of the entire Portledge Community, Congratulations to all of our Athletes! Please click on the image below to view a message from Head of School, Simon Owen-Williams.