St. Pius X School Mission
St. Pius X School serves God in Communion with the Roman Catholic Church by fostering moral, social, and intellectual growth within a college preparatory setting to teach young people to be ethical leaders in service to others.
Leadership
Mike Deely Head of School
Through the Every Sartan. Every Day. Annual Fund campaign, we strive to honor this commitment. Each year, we thoughtfully evaluate program strengths and needs in collaboration with moderators, department chairs, and coaches, and then make a plan to provide meaningful support. Last year, Annual Fund support helped launch our eSports program with new computer equipment. This year, a generous donor made possible the replacement of the softball scoreboard, while the Fine Arts Boosters funded essential repairs to the Stage 1 sound booth.
Our approach is simple and intentional: identify what every Sartan needs and make a plan to meet those needs. While not every priority can be addressed immediately, our goal is steady progress, ensuring that, over time, each program receives the support it deserves.
The Annual Fund continues to grow, and it must continue to grow. Our hope is to one day achieve 100% participation from all members of our community, including parents, alumni, grandparents, and friends, because at some point, every Sartan benefits from the impact of this fund in pursuit of their passions and callings.
We are deeply grateful for the generosity we have received, and we will continue to seek your partnership as we fulfill the promise we make to families: to exceed expectations through a strong, faith-based education rooted in excellence.
May God continue to bless you and your families.
Sincerely in Christ,
Mike Deely, Head of School
Fr. John Trambley
President of School
As St. Paul says in his First Letter to the church of Corinth, “As a body is one though it has many parts, and all the parts of the body, though many, are one body, so also it is with Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, slaves or free persons, and we were all given to drink of one Spirit. Now the body is not a single part, but many.” (1 Cor 12:12-14) All who are baptized are a part of the body of Christ. If you are not baptized, I encourage you to ask about it in your parish. The Catechism of the Catholic Church says, “Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons [and daughters] of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission.” (CCC 1213) What is the mission at St. Pius X School? It is teaching young people to be ethical leaders in service to others. That means parents, grandparents, faculty, staff, benefactors, and alumni all working together to make this happen. One of the most effective ways to do this is through supporting The Annual Fund. This is the way that more families can receive the tuition assistance they need to send their children to St. Pius. This is the way our campus continues to improve. It is the way that every Sartan can be supported in meaningful ways. Someone may think that they can’t make a difference because they can only afford to give a small gift. Every gift matters. Every gift makes a difference. Just as every part of a body is necessary, is called to serve Every Day. Be open to the ways you can serve. We need more servant leaders in our community. Pray about it. Maybe your service includes a gift to The Annual Fund this year.
Julie Cook
The Annual Fund is the foundation of everything we do at St. Pius X School. Your generosity touches every corner of campus and every student we serve, guided by the promise of Every Sartan. Every Day. Having entered our third consecutive year of challenging our community to give more than $1 million, the impact of the Annual Fund is evident across campus: from engaged faculty, innovative academic programs, and record participation in athletics, to critical tuition assistance, Christian Leadership programs, and comfortable, well-maintained learning environments. Annual Fund support enables St. Pius X to invest in transformative initiatives, such as the STREAM Innovation Center, A.I. Classroom, and Esports Classroom, while expanding hands-on learning across science, technology, religion, engineering, the arts, and math. This support also sustains the daily operations that keep our school thriving. From providing tuition assistance to 40% of our students to celebrating championship athletics and theater productions with record attendance, the Annual Fund has a meaningful impact on our students and their families.
Vice President of Institutional Advancement Connections
St. Pius X School, Inc. Board of Trustees
Dr. Noreen Duffy Copeland, President
Robert Robeda, Treasurer
Marijo Rymer ’64, Secretary
Msgr. Lambert Luna
Brian Nigg
Jill Rivera
SP X Real Estate Corporation Board of Trustees
Jerry Sais, President
Bob Arguelles ’74, Vice President
John Menicucci ’70, Secretary
St. Pius X School
Fr. John Trambley, President of School
Mike Deely, Head of School
Julie Cook, VP of Institutional Advancement
Connections 1956 Magazine
Jennifer Maldonado ’91, Editor-in-Chief, Director of Communications and Alumni Relations
Louis Maes, Graphic Designer
Campos Photography
XL Sports Photography
Chuck Reynolds ‘64, Volunteer Editor
Phil Zuber, Volunteer Editor
Alumni and Advancement
Alumni Weekend Kicks off the 2025/2026 School Year
The official start of the school year begins on the second weekend of August, when soccer and volleyball alumni return to campus to compete against the newly selected varsity teams. This year, a new tradition was established with a Sartan Social event, inviting ALL of our alumni back to campus to reconnect with classmates and teachers from each decade while attending the games.
The weekend, hosted by the Alumni Council, began on Friday evening with an outdoor celebration on the Quad. Sartans from every generation, past, present, and future, enjoyed good company, delicious food, and whimsical snow cones, bringing a sense of fun and celebration to the events.
The volleyball matches truly had a sense of family as mothers, aunts, and big sisters competed against their daughters, nieces, and not-so-little sisters, filling the court on both sides of the net. The Backto-Back State Champion Sartans won the games in 3 sets, setting the tone for their season.
Soccer Saturday began with the women taking the field in the most attended women’s alumni game in recent history. Among the returning alumni was St. Pius X’s 1st First Team All-State Recipient, Tash Ellison ‘88, who traveled from Canada to play in this year’s games. The current team took the win, but the alumni brought talent, heart, and neverending sportsmanship to the pitch.
Ending the weekend on a high note, the men’s game did not disappoint. As the alumni battled, they once again prevailed in a 3-1 victory, despite receiving the first-ever red card issued in the alumni games and playing a man down. The legacy of Sartan Soccer continues to impress, as some players still dominate on the field even decades after their graduation.
2025 Reunions
“Don’t count the years...count the friendships
The 60th class reunion was a resounding success! Time may have passed, but the bonds we share as classmates remain strong; we are the threads that keep friendships alive. A heartfelt thanks goes out to SPX, Jennifer Maldonado, Fr. John, and the classmates who made this great event happen for all of us. Without their support, this event may not have happened. Here’s to the memories we’ve made and to the ones still to come. - Al Cata ’65
I would summarize the reunion by saying that the classmates who attended told me they had a great time and really enjoyed seeing old friends! Some people were attending their first reunion, and they hadn’t seen most, if not all, of their classmates in over 50 years, so they were thankful for the opportunity. Many probably feel like their class is special (and I would say the same thing), so it was a heart-warming gathering and remembrance of long-time friends. - Paul Clifford ’75
In November 1980, at the age of 13 years old, I started my first job at Highland Pharmacy. Before I started freshman year, my mom sat me down and told me, “There’s no money; you are going to have to attend Albuquerque High.” I told my mom emphatically, “I have a job now; I will pay for my own tuition at St. Pius!” It was one of the most gratifying challenges of my life. Quite honestly, I didn’t want to attend the reunion as I’ve been grieving the loss of my mom and due to other personal reasons; however, I decided to attend at the last minute, and I’m so glad I did! It was great to see classmates again! - Karla Tyrpak ’85
and the memories,” - Ed Mader ‘75
Reconnecting with the Class of ’95 was such a gift. So many laughs, memories, and stories shared like no time had passed at all. Walking the halls again reminded us of the bonds we built here, and celebrating together made me so grateful to be part of this special community. - Chris Maxwell ’95
Attending my 10-year reunion was a wonderful way to see old classmates and catch up on everyone’s lives and accomplishments. It allowed old relationships to blossom into new ones, and I appreciate the time it took to organize two amazing events for our Class of 2015! - Kristen Sanchez ’15
I’m so grateful I was able to attend our SPX 20th HS reunion weekend. It was such a meaningful time reconnecting with old friends, sharing memories, and seeing the paths everyone had taken since graduation. The laughter, conversations, and sense of community reminded me of how special those years were and how strong the bonds remain. As Father Samuel, our fellow alum, mentioned in his beautiful homily, the reunion weekend was a time of fostering community and friendships, and I feel truly blessed for the weekend’s experiences. Thank you to everyone who helped organize and to all who showed up to make it such a positive, memorable celebration. And to the ones unable to make it, you were missed! I left feeling inspired, uplifted, and proud to be part of this class. “Dos, oh, oh, cinco!” - Kassondra Sosa ’05
Grandparents’ Day
A Record-Breaking Grandparents’ Day
at St. Pius X
September 12, 2025, marked a truly incredible moment in St. Pius X history as the school welcomed more than 800 grandparents to campus for the largest Grandparents Day celebration ever. The event was filled with warmth, joy, and heartfelt connection, thanks to the extraordinary generosity and dedication of the entire SPX community, including our parents, students, and alumni volunteers, as well as the faculty and staff who worked tirelessly before, during, and after the event.
From morning Mass to classroom visits and open-house activities, every part of the day reflected the hospitality and care that define St. Pius X. Grandparents were greeted with smiles over coffee and donuts, laughter in the courtyards, and meaningful moments in classrooms as they experienced firsthand the vibrant life of their grandchildren at SPX. “It was such an enjoyable and informative day. I always have fun spending time with my grandsons, Liam ’26, Silas ’28, and Micah ’31.” Monica Brown
Throughout the day, many grandparents shared their gratitude, expressing how much it meant to meet teachers, witness student learning, and feel the spirit of faith and family that permeates the campus. “Grandparents are always treated to a beautiful day! I am so happy and proud that Olivia ’27 can experience the love I have for St. Pius X.” Teresa Gutierrez Kelly ’74
The celebration not only highlighted the connections between generations but also created lasting memories for hundreds of families. Thanks to the collective efforts of the SPX community, Grandparents Day 2025 will be remembered as a day of joy, gratitude, and deep appreciation for the people who make St. Pius X such a special place.
A Minute and Forty-Five: The Difference That
Defined the Brotherhood of 1975
Maybe there should have been two champions crowned Friday night at the Sports Stadium. There wasn’t a lot of difference between victory and defeat— mostly one minute and forty-five seconds and an Artesia pass...”
— Richard Stevens, Albuquerque Tribune, November 29, 1975
It’s been fifty years since that headline was printed after the 1975 State Championship game, when the Sartans may have lost, but never fell short. To say the boys of the 1975 team left it all on the field is an understatement, ending the season with a record of 10-2. It was a unique team built with heart, perseverance, and unity, whose friendships have remained for over half a century, a bond that went beyond helmets and football plays. The heartbreak of that night forever connected the players, the coaches, the cheerleaders, and the Dorados of 1975. The team had not formally gathered in twenty years, but as they reunited on the St. Pius X campus; it was as though not more than a day had passed.
The reunion weekend began in the shadow of the X on Alumni Plaza with a gathering where toasts were made and memories were revisited. The evening ended with a group gathered in a circle to listen to a playback of Coach Giannini’s halftime speech. It was a scene, probably like the one that took place in the locker room fifty years ago.
The festivities continued the next day with a tailgate before the 2025 Sartans crushed the Chaparral Lobos in a victory ending with a mercy ruling at the half. After the final handshakes, the Sartans lined up in the center of the field in honor of the 1975 team, the Dorados, and the cheerleaders. Chuck Mang ’76 exclaimed after the game, “It was truly a great day to be a Sartan again! I’m so grateful for the unforgettable experience and everyone’s effort in bringing it all together.”
It was a weekend of gratitude, remembrance, and admiration as conveyed by Greg Seiger ’77, “What a weekend! I loved seeing everyone and learning how our lives have progressed, anchored in many of the attributes we saw on display over the weekend. It was one of the top 5 events in my life. Thank you.”
The love expressed from the bond between those boys who are now men is something that all Sartans hope to experience in their lives because a St. Pius X education is more than academics and faith; it’s a gift of relationships that withstand the test of time. Once a Sartan, always a Sartan.
Alumni Council/Reunions
Reconnect and Give Back: Become a Member of the SPX Alumni Council
The SPX Alumni Council is now accepting membership applications. If you are interested in strengthening the bond between alumni and our beloved alma mater, fostering lifelong connections, supporting current students, and celebrating SPX’s legacy, then join us! The SPX Alumni Council consists of passionate and accomplished members of the SPX community, each bringing unique expertise and a shared love for being a Sartan. These individuals will serve as ambassadors for alumni engagement, leading initiatives, organizing alumni events, and implementing programs that honor the spirit of St. Pius X while ensuring its continued growth. The council’s vision is to create opportunities for alumni to reconnect to St. Pius X, give back to the school, and support future generations of Sartans. For more information, contact Jennifer Maldonado ’91, Director of Communications and Alumni Relations at jmaldonado@spxabq.org.
2025/2026 St. Pius X Alumni Council
Joe Abbin ’60
Phyllis Schubert ’66
Barbara Hernandez Studerus ’77
Jennifer Herrera Maldonado ’91
Debra Salter Deller ’93
Chris Maxwell ’95
Leticia Martinez Gomez ’96
Katherine Hodock Clouser ’03
Jenaya Hakeem Howard ’04
Stephen Armijo ’07
Justin Lucero ’09
Kristin Padilla Ramos ’10
Sharon Sullivan ’10
Kristen Sanchez ’15
Gabe Calvo ’17
Beverly Lawson FAS
Alumni Council/Reunions
2026 Reunions
Class of 1966
September 25th – 27th, 2026
Please contact Phyllis Schubert at pschubert7162@yahoo.com
Class of 1976
July 17th – 19th, 2026
Please contact Renee Cobos at reneeycobos@gmail.com or John Cordova at jmcags71@gmail.com
Class of 1986
August 14th – 15th, 2026
Please contact Myra Ghattas at dine@slatestreetcafe.com
Class of 1991
July 31st – August 2nd, 2026
Please contact Laurie Magovern at Laurie.magovern@gmail.com or 505-750-8760, Simon Lopez at Lopez.simon58@gmail.com, or Jacqueline Fresquez (Vivian) at Soccerviv@gmail.com
Class of 1996 Summer 2026
Please contact Adriana Luna Sanchez at nannycl305@gmail.com or check the Saint Pius High School, Albuquerque, Class of 1996 Facebook page for updates.
Class of 2006
TBD
Class of 2016
TBD
Class of 1960
Local alumni of the class of 1960 meet for lunch on the second Friday of each month at varying locations. Contact Betty Doxey (Gates) at bttydbooper@yahoo.com for details.
If you are a member of the 2006 or 2016 classes and are interested in planning your reunion, please contact the St. Pius X Alumni Office at spxalumninews@spxabq.org
Sartan Journeys
Alejandra De La Cruz Argueta ’15
graduated from St. Pius X High School in 2015 and went on to attend the University of New Mexico. While at UNM, she was selected as an NIH-funded Initializing Maximum Student Development (IMSD) Scholar, where she conducted research in an evolutionary immunology laboratory focused on rainbow trout microbiomes. This experience led to an opportunity as a paid undergraduate research assistant at the University of Pennsylvania during the summer of 2017, where she continued her immunology research on rainbow trout antibodies.
In 2019, Alejandra graduated from UNM with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, a minor in Chemistry, and a minor in Interdisciplinary Arts. Following her undergraduate studies, she was accepted into the University of Southern California’s Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry in Los Angeles, where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree.
During her time at USC, she was competitively selected as one of the few paid students responsible for responding to medical emergencies within all USC dental clinics, eventually being elected “Chief” of the organization. She also served as a student dentist with The USC Mobile Clinic, which has provided care to underserved children and adults across Central and Southern California for more than 50 years. Additionally, she volunteered at The Union Rescue Mission (URM), offering emergency and comprehensive dental care to individuals experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles’ “Skid Row.”
Upon graduation, Alejandra was selected by USC to be featured as a graduate story and received two faculty-nominated honors:
• AAOP Certificate of Merit Award, sponsored by the American Academy of Orofacial Pain
• Dr. Jeanne Craig Sinkford Student Leadership Award, sponsored by the American Dental Education Association
She returned to New Mexico to complete a dental residency in General Dentistry at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine, where she earned the Golden Handpiece Service Award in June 2025.
Dr. De La Cruz Argueta has since begun her professional dental career at First Choice Community Healthcare, a nonprofit organization that provides primary medical, dental, and behavioral care to underserved populations in the Mid-Rio Grande Valley of central New Mexico. Founded in 1972, First Choice Community Healthcare maintains an open-door policy, offering treatment regardless of income or insurance status, and is dedicated to improving the health, life skills, and well-being of all members of the community.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, De La Cruz Argueta comes from a family deeply rooted in public service. Her father serves as a state representative, her mother is a governing board member of CNM, and her brother, Reyes ’09, also a St. Pius X graduate, is an attorney working in Los Alamos. In 2017, she met her husband, Dan, whom she supported throughout his UFC career. Now retired from the UFC, Coach Argueta was recently hired as the Head St. Pius X Wrestling Coach. The couple recently celebrated their marriage in September 2025.
Tash Ellison ’88
Tash Ellison’s story is one of firsts and lasts in relation to St. Pius X. As a member of the Class of 1988, the last class to graduate from the Louisiana Campus, she was an esteemed athlete and the first female soccer player to be selected as First-Team All-State for the program in the fall of 1984 and then again in 1985. Although soccer was her passion, she was a three-sport varsity athlete, adding softball and basketball to her accolades.
Originally from Houston, TX, Tash moved to the greater Los Angeles area when she was three years old and moved to Albuquerque in 1978. Although she now resides in Canada, Albuquerque will always be “home.”
After graduation, Tash attended Monroe Community College in Rochester, NY, on a soccer scholarship. In her two years as a Monroe Tribune, the team placed second at the National Championship and won the title in her second year.
Tash continued her path, earning a degree from Rochester Institute of Technology in Industrial Design. Always the athlete, she also took up speed skating and rowed in collegiate 4- and 8-woman racing shells. Rowing quickly became one of her favorite sports, stating, “Nothing like rowing through the cool, crisp fall air on a frosty morning in New England.”
While attending school in Rochester, she began working for Heritage Christian Homes, assisting adults with developmental disabilities in a residential setting. It was in this job that Tash found her calling and later moved back to Albuquerque to work for Share Your Care, an adult day care/ services program.
In early 2000, she happened to see the Goodwill Games televised from Lake Placid, NY, piquing her interest in Bobsleigh and Skeleton. At the same time, “Sports Illustrated for Women” had a small article on women’s bobsleighing. Before she knew it, Tash was at a bobsleigh testing camp and received an invitation to team training in Lake Placid, NY. She was then selected to the National Team and was back in the thick of a sport again. Skeleton provided Tash with the opportunity to travel the world participating in the America’s Cup, Europa Cup, and World Cup competitions. As a result of her travels, she later settled in Calgary with an earned Permanent Residency certificate and eventually slid for Team Canada. After retiring from Skeleton in 2006, she began the path to achieving her Canadian Citizenship.
In 2009, Tash returned to school at the University of Calgary to earn her teaching degree. She has been teaching for the Calgary Board of Education ever since as an Inclusive Education Teacher. Forever the athlete, Tash spends her free time in the Canadian Rockies, riding horses and participating in polo, several years after an accident limited her ability to run.
Tash currently spends most of her summer and Christmas holidays in the States with family and friends. Her mother and stepfather still reside in her childhood home in Albuquerque. One of her proudest moments was volunteering in Texas last summer after the tragic floods in the Texas Hill Country. While visiting Albuquerque, she connected with SPX friends and SPX Basketball Coach George McAfee. After learning of the 2025 Annual Alumni Soccer Games, she delayed her trip back to Canada by a few days so she could participate.
The alumni team welcomed Tash with open arms and hopes this is the first of many appearances from the Sartan superstar!
Sartan Journeys
Sartan Journeys
Lynne Franchini Peckinpaugh ’64
Since retiring from teaching Gourmet Cooking and Developmental Psychology at St. Pius X in 2012, Lynne has focused on her art, especially watercolors, and on researching her family’s history and the broader Italian American community in Albuquerque, NM. As a member of one of the most well-known Italian American families in Albuquerque, Lynne Franchini Peckinpaugh ’64 is participating in a series presenting “The Italian’s Pathway to Prosperity on Albuquerque’s Route 66,” exploring the history of various businesses owned by Italians, such as the Sunshine Theater, Paris Shoe Stores, the Kimo Theater, and Franchini Brothers Grocery Store. Many personal stories about the families who shaped the vibrant Italian American community that has inhabited Albuquerque since the late 1800s will be the highlight of the series. The talk will be held on the Fourth Saturday of every month from January 24, 2026, through November 2026. The full schedule will be available on The Route 66 Centennial website, NM True, and Visit Albuquerque.
Fr. Samuel Hakeem ’05
After graduating from St. Pius X in 2005, Fr. Samuel ’05 (then Philip) attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, AZ, earning a bachelor’s degree in Space Physics while chasing a dream to become St. Pius X’s second astronaut. During his four years at EmbryRiddle, he had fleeting thoughts about the priesthood, but quickly brushed them off as silly thoughts, at the very least incompatible with a career involving spaceflight! The 2008 Economic Recession led to some re-evaluation of life priorities and eventually an openness to a vocation to religious life. He reached out to Fr. Bob Campbell, O. Praem., to discuss religious life, remembering Fr. Bob from his days teaching at St. Pius X. To his surprise, after graduating from college in 2009, Fr. Samuel was accepted into graduate school at UNM, studying Optical Science and Engineering. It was at UNM that Fr. Samuel first met the Dominicans. As he got to know the Dominicans both at the Newman Center and at other locations, he realized that his heart was being drawn into Dominican life. He left UNM after completing his first year of graduate studies to begin formation with the Dominicans. After his ordination in 2017, Fr. Samuel was assigned to Blessed Sacrament Parish in Madison, WI, for three years. He has served as Vocations Director for the Dominicans since 2020, residing in Chicago and spending most of the school semesters traveling around the universities of the Midwest and Southwest.
“Before we graduated from St. Pius, Fr. Sam Falbo called each one of us into his office just to check in and give us his blessing. As a senior, I was highly involved in Campus Ministry and Student Council. Fr. Falbo asked me the obvious question: ‘Have you ever thought of being a priest?’ I laughed in his face. He laughed back at me, put up his hand, and said ‘Just be open. Be open!’ He saw in me back then what I could have never fathomed myself! Years later, I was able to thank him for being the first person to encourage me to consider a priestly vocation.”
Jessica Eaves Mathews ’85
is a trademark, copyright, Artificial Intelligence (AI), startup, and business lawyer, and founder of Leverage Legal Group (www.leveragelegalgroup). She got her undergraduate degree in 1990 from UNM, her law degree in 1995 from Seattle University Law School (where she was Editor-in-Chief of the Seattle University Law Review), and just last year (in her 29th year of being a lawyer), went back to graduate school, earning a Masters of Law in Global Business Law with honors from Columbia Law School in NYC. Jessica serves clients throughout the US, Canada, UK, and Europe, helping them protect their trademarks and copyrights, comply with digital regulations like data protection and privacy rules, advising on the proper and legal use of AI in their businesses, and on launching and growing their businesses in the US and abroad. Jessica is also a best-selling author of the book “Wonder Women: How Western Women Will Save the World” and has been an avid supporter of startup ecosystems, particularly women entrepreneurs, around the US, including in Albuquerque, Seattle, San Diego, Los Angeles, and NYC. Most recently, she joined an NYC-based AI Beauty Tech startup, Glam Pod, Inc., as Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel in the prefunding stage. With clients in the US, UK, and Europe, she will be splitting her time between the US and Paris, France, starting later this year. She has one daughter, Kate, who is the light of her life and is currently a senior at UCLA, majoring in Film (with a focus on screenwriting, directing, and animation) and minoring in Environmental Science. Jessica sadly lost her beloved mom, Mary Ann Eaves, to cancer last year, but her beloved, youngat-heart father, Mel Eaves, is living and thriving in Albuquerque, and he travels frequently to spend time with Jessica and Kate in Los Angeles. Her brother Craig Eaves ’83 lives in Albuquerque.
Patrick Furlong ’02
is the Director of the Pam Rector Center for Service and Action at Loyola Marymount University (LMU). As a student, the programs from this very office had the greatest impact on his own development, making it an incredible privilege for him now to lead efforts that shape the next generation of students. Recently, Patrick was featured on NPR’s My Unsung Hero podcast, where he shared the impact a former guidance counselor at St. Pius X had on his life. Now an educator himself, he reflects with deep gratitude on the many teachers and mentors at SPX who poured love and support into him during such a formative time.
Outside of work, Patrick is married and the proud dad of two amazing kids. Though he now calls Los Angeles home, he still loves getting back to Albuquerque. Both cities have meaningfully shaped who he is. A big sports fan (go Dodgers!), Patrick also enjoys traveling and, when closer to home, spending time at the beach with his family.
In Memory
MaryAnn Burwinkle
Passed away on August 28, 2025
Mother of Charlie Burwinkle ’78, Patrick Burwinkle ’79, Dan Burwinkle ’80 and Shawn Burwinkle Guerra ’83
Dr. Robert “Bob” Chimenti ‘67
Passed away in January 2025
Brother of Bart Chimenti ’60 (deceased)
Uncle of Damien Chimenti ’96
Melanie Cotinola
Passed away on November 16, 2025
Mother of Georgieana Cotinola ’19, Izabella Cotinola ’25, and Milani Cotinola ’31
Tim Cummings ’85
Passed away in October 2025
Brother of John Cummings ’81 and Kevin Cummings ’83
Mary Ann Eaves
Passed away on October 6, 2024
Mother of Craig Eaves ’83 and Jessica Eaves Mathews ’85
Stephen Geis ‘77
Passed away on June 16, 2025
Brother of Gayle O’Dowd ’87
Patricia Green
Passed away on June 25, 2025
Grandmother of Andy Hatfield ’07 and Troy Hatfield ’12
Barbara Lee
Passed away on April 11, 2023
Mother of Edward Tyrpak ‘81, Valerie Tyrpak ‘83, Karla Tyrpak ‘85, and Stephen Tyrpak ‘88 (deceased)
David Leyva
Passed away on October 4, 2025
Father of Xavier Leyva ’29 and Leah Leyva ’32
Albert James Lucero ’63
Passed away on August 29, 2025
Ryan Maestas ’26
Passed away on October 30, 2025
Huyen Nguyen
Passed away on November 27, 2025
Father of Isabella Nguyen ’28 and Paul Nguyen ’31
Timothy Padilla ’62
Passed away on November 28, 2025
Erika Pailer ’98
Passed away on March 28, 2025
Margaret Pino
Passed away on August 3, 2025
Mother of Tony Pino ’74, Michael Pino ’75, Eileen Pino Luchini ’76, Helen Pino ’78, Kathy Pino Menicucci ’79, Stephen Pino ’81, and Marlene Pino ’83. Mother-in-Law of Julie Lyle Pino ’75 , Grandmother of Lyle Pino ’00 and Curtis Pino ’02 , Great Grandmother of Addison Pino ’29, Sebastian Pino ’29, Leah Pino ’30, Lincoln ’32
Luis Rumbaut ’66
Passed away on June 28, 2025
Margaret Schwaner
Passed away on September 26, 2025
Mother of Eric Schwaner ’79, Mark Schwaner ’80, Jeff Schwaner ’81, Brian Schwaner ’82, Bradley Schwaner ’83, Suzanne Schwaner Durnford ’85 (deceased). Grandmother of Jenna Schwaner ’06, Stephen Schwaner ’09, Andrea Schwaner ’13 and Ryan Schwaner ’20, Mother-in-Law of Marie Montgomery Schwaner ’81
Edward Tyrpak, Jr.
Passed away June 17, 2010
Father of Edward Tyrpak ‘81, Valerie Tyrpak ‘83, Karla Tyrpak ‘85, and Stephen Tyrpak ‘88 (deceased)
Martin Joseph Wagner ’64
Passed away on October 25, 2025
Brother of Thomas Wagner ’62 and Michael Wagner ’67
Fr. John Wheeler, CSB
Passed away on December 9, 2025
Former faculty 1990-1994
Marilyn Zanetti
Passed away on June 18, 2025
Mother of Geoffrey Zanetti ’77 and Regina Zanetti Luckie ’78
William “Bill” Keleher
August 21, 1933 — November 12, 2025
St. Pius X School lost a beloved friend of the school in the fall. William Barrett Keleher passed away at home on November 12, 2025. Bill lived his 92 years with grace, generosity, and compassion. He loved the law, practicing with Keleher & McLeod for nearly sixty years, until finally retiring in 2017. He was a Fellow in the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel, was listed in Best Lawyers in America for Real Estate Law and Corporate Law, and served on the Federal Magistrate Section Panel for the District of New Mexico for 14 years (1994-2009).
Bill was deeply committed to his family, his community, and his faith. He cheerfully attended concerts, dance recitals, ice skating performances, track meets, swimming meets, basketball games, football games, soccer games, wrestling competitions, and rugby matches, as well as taking his family on day trips around New Mexico. He loved Albuquerque and New Mexico and was always happy to share his encyclopedic knowledge of New Mexico history and personalities.
Throughout his career, Bill devoted many hours to supporting the state and local community, including service on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee of Kirtland Partnership Committee and the Board of Directors of Casa Angelica Foundation. He was an honorary lifetime member of the Board of Directors of Albuquerque Economic Development Corporation, a member of the Economic Forum of Albuquerque, a member of the Albuquerque Armed Forces Advisory Committee, and a recipient of the Steve Schiff Kirtland Air Force Base Advocacy Award (2012). Together with others in his family, he was recognized with the NAIOP Award of Excellence in 2004. He chaired Senator Pete V. Domenici’s campaigns for re-election in 1996 and 2002, as well as serving on the Board of Directors of the Valles Caldera Trust.
Bill was a devout Catholic and strove to live and work morally and ethically. Until shortly before his death, he attended Mass daily, often serving as a reader. He and his wife, Jan, were devoted supporters of St. Pius X School, always expressing interest in students’ faith formation, academic interests, and the vitality of the school.
Bill is survived by his wife of 67 years, Jan, and several St. Pius X alumni: Children Mary Keleher Castle ‘77, Joann Keleher Wylie ‘78, William R. Keleher ‘81, Mark A. Keleher ‘83, Julia R. Keleher ‘87, and grandchildren Andrew K. Keleher ‘14, Jordan K. Wylie ‘16, and David Castle ‘21.
St. Pius X Football Roster
Seniors
Head Coach
Curtis Flakes II
Juniors
Joaquin Aragon
Isaiah Barboa
Isaiah Carpenter
Cayl Cox-Liggins
Chace Dabney
Phillip Delgado
Curtis Flakes III
Xavier Giron
Nick Gomez
Carlo Lowrey-Garcia
Ethan Machtinger
Ethan Martinez
Richard Medina
Chase Nelson, Captain
Hershul Olloway Jr.
Lucas Saavedra
Xavier Sanchez
Sophomores
Isaiah Barela
Dominic Bellisario
Jonas Bouvet
Carlos Bustamante Jr
Nicholas Casco
Jack Gribble
Max Gribble
Kane Huffmyer, Captain
Zachary Katz
Elijah Law
Antonio Martinez
Joaquin Martinez
Christian Morales
Ezra Ocampo
Dane Russell
Sam Stafford
Chad Tsosie
Freshmen
Tristan Bacon
Damacio Brito
Maximilian Catanach
Evan Cota
Travis Craver
Luke Danella
Munyaradzi Dube
Maklane Finley
Joshua Fisher
Armani Flores
Conner Foster
Dylan Gabaldon
Zachary Garcia
Johnny Gojkovich III
Alex Gomez
Cruz Gonzales
Charlie Hollowwa
Danny Garcia II
Luke Jones
Emiley Keyope
Lorrance Leeds
Dillon Macias
Hunter Marsh
Noah Montoya
Isaiah Moraga
Samuel Mosley
Elijah Padilla
Nolan Peyton
Sebastian Pino
Maddox Richardson
Ryan Sena
Alexander Sims
Nixon Smith
Cody Tsosie
Eighth Graders
Elijah Barboa
Adrian Duran
Waylon Freshman
Sebastian Gonzales
Jude Granillo
Mitchell Horst
Michael Jaramillo
Andres Pertner
Cy Saenz
Carson Thornton
Armando Torres
Tyler Wunsch
Ball Boy
Camden Flakes
Joziah Chama
Raph Neel
James Martinez
Logan Underwood
Collin Foster
Tony Ruiz Diego Gonzales
Preston Terrazas Daegan Marsh
Ramon Torres CAPTAIN
Joseph Chavez
Kolbe Padilla CAPTAIN
Nathaniel Miera
St. Pius X Football Recap
Season Stats
Overall Record: 10-2
District Record: 5-1
District Champions
State Results: #2 Seed
4A State Runner-Up
ALL-STATE
1st Team Offense
Isaiah Carpenter (11), QB
Cayl Cox-Liggins (11), WR
Curtis Flakes III (11), SR
Chase Nelson (11), OL
Hershul Olloway Jr. (11), RB
1st Team Defense
Joaquin Aragon (11), OLB
Curtis Flakes III (11), DB
Kane Huffmyer (10), ILB
Ethan Machtinger (11), DL
Chase Nelson (11), DE
2nd Team Offense
Tony Ruiz (12), C
Ramon Torres (12), OL
2nd Team Defense
Collin Foster (12), DB
Kolbe Padilla (12), LB
Ezra Ocampo (10), DB
Honorable Mention
Chase Dabney (11), DB
Lucas Saavedra (11), OL ALL-METRO
1st Team Offense
Tony Ruiz (12), C
Isaiah Carpenter (11), QB
Cayl Cox-Liggins (11), WR
Curtis Flakes III (11), WR
Chase Nelson (11), LT
Hershal Olloway Jr. (11), RB
2nd Team Offense
Hershul Olloway Jr. (11), RS
All-Metro
1st Team Defense
The SPX Varsity Football Team finished the season with an impressive 10-2 record, earning a trip to the State Championship game and backto-back District Championship titles. At the start of the season, the Sartans faced and defeated not one but two 6A schools: West Mesa and Organ Mountain.
The Sartans concluded the regular season by winning the District Championship, which secured the #2 seed in the playoffs for the second consecutive year. In the playoffs, the Sartans faced the #1 seed and reigning State Champion, Bloomfield. They began the game strongly and put forth great effort, though they ultimately fell short.
The Sartans’ success is primarily due to the coaching staff’s dedication and the exceptional talent of the players, many of whom have received All-District, All-Metro, and All-State honors.
Congratulations, Sartans!
Kolbe Padilla (12), LB
Curtis Flakes III (11), CB
Kane Huffmyer (10), LB
Ethan Machtinger (11), DT
Chase Nelson (11), DE
2nd Team Offense
Xavier Giron (11), LG
Lucas Saavedra (11), RG
Kane Huffmyer (10), TE
Ezra Ocampo (10), Athlete
2nd Team Defense
Logan Underwood (12)
Special Recognition
Joseph Chavez (12)
Metro Coach of The
Year (Consecutive Seasons)
Curtis Flakes II
ALL-DISTRICT
1st Team Offense
Tony Ruiz (12), Center
Ramon Torres (12), RT
Isaiah Carpenter (11), QB
Cayl Cox-Liggins (11), WR
Curtis Flakes III (11), WR
Chase Nelson (11), LT
Hershul Olloway Jr. (11), RB
1st Team Defense
Collin Foster (12), DB
Kolbe Padillia (12), LB
Cayl Cox-Liggins (12), DB
Curtis Flakes III (11), DB
Ethan Machtinger (11), DT
Chase Nelson (11), DE
Kane Huffmyer (10), LB
Ramon Torres (12), DL Joaquin Aragon (11), LB
Chase Dabney (11), DB
Nicholas Casco (10), LB
Ezra Ocampo (10), DB
Honorable Mention
Joseph Chavez (12), LS
Preston Terrazas (12), K
Cy Saenz (8), Athlete
Offensive Player of the Year
Hershul Olloway Jr. (11)
Defensive Player of the Year
Kane Huffmyer (10)
Coach of the Year
Curtis Flakes III
RED vs GREEN ALL-STAR
Kolbe Padilla (12), LB
St. Pius X Volleyball Roster
Seniors
Head Coach
Jordan Russell
Juniors
Elizabeth Coash
Sophia Eakes
Olivia Forrester
Samone Gutierrez
Sienna Harrington
Marisol Lujan
Claire McCarthy
Sophomores
Kayla Chavez
Faith Cordova
Hope Cordova
Daneyah Davila
Lily Dilorenzo
Grace Grady
Ella Granillo
Aspen Griebel
Roslyn Marquez
Laila Martinez
Isla Sanchez
Katelyn Sweetin
Olivia Wingfield
Freshmen
Iszabella Aguilera
Isabella Baca-Hummell
Giana Cerami
Mariana Espat
Branae Flores
Karah Granados
Thalia Gutierrez
Maya Henderson
Alyssa Herrera
Grace Holguin
Jordyn Paiz
Juliana Reyna
Eighth Graders
Amiyah Cunningham
Trinitee Salas
Mary Grady
Georgia Griebel
Graciela McMahan
Lilliana Tsethlikai
Alyssa Bendinskas CAPTAIN
Sierra Sanchez Jasmine Martinez Maya Perea CAPTAIN Ava Robertson Aliyah Lucero
Mireya SaucedaGonzález
St. Pius X Volleyball Recap
Season Stats
Overall Record: 24-3
District Record: 8-0
District Champions
State Results: #1 Seed
4A State Champions
ALL-STATE
1st Team
Alyssa Bendinskas (12), Outside Hitter
Maya Perea (12), Libero
Ava Robertson (12), Setter
Sierra Sanchez (12), Setter
Mireya Sauceda-Gonzalez (12), Right Side Hitter
Katelyn Sweetin (10), Middle Blocker
2nd Team
Jasmine Martinez (12), Right Side Hitter
Aliyah Lucero (12), Defensive Specialist
Sienna Harrington (11), Outside Hitter
Sofia Eakes (11), Middle Blocker
Claire McCarthy (11), Right Side Hitter
Grace Grady (10), Setter
ALL-DISTRICT
Co-Players of the Year
Alyssa Bendinskas (12), Outside Hitter
Maya Perea (12), Libero
1st Team
Alyssa Bendinskas (12), Outside Hitter
Maya Perea (12), Libero
Sierra Sanchez (12), Setter
Mireya Sauceda-Gonzalez (11), Right Side Hitter
Katelyn Sweetin (10), Middle Blocker
2nd Team
Ava Robertson (12), Setter
Sofia Eakes (11), Middle Blocker
Sienna Harrington (11), Outside Hitter
Claire McCarthy (11), Right Side Hitter
Grace Grady (10), Setter
St. Pius X Varsity Volleyball concluded their season on a high note as “Three-pete” 2025 State Champions! The Sartans finished the year with an impressive 24-3 record, with all three losses coming at the hands of 5A opponents. The team was named the 2025 District Champions, achieving an undefeated 8-0 record. The Lady Sartans dropped only 3 sets to 4A opponents over the entire season. The Lady Sartans have not lost to a 4A opponent in 3 years.
Their perfect district performance and challenging schedule earned the Lady Sartans the number one seed in the NMAA State Tournament. They faced Kirtland Central, Academy, and Artesia, ultimately making it to the State Finals against the Academy Chargers. The girls played with precision and grit, defeating the Chargers in three sets with scores of 27-25, 25-23, and 25-18. This victory marks St. Pius X’s 11th State Volleyball Championship, ranking them #4 in the state among the top 4A and 5A teams.
Congratulations, Sartans!
3rd Team
Aliyah Lucero (12), Defensive Specialist
Jasmine Martinez (12), Right Side Hitter
Lizzie Coash (11), Defensive Specialist
Lily DiLorenzo (10), Defensive Specialist
Coach of the Year
Jordan Russell
ALL-METRO
1st Team
Alyssa Bendinskas (12), Outside Hitter
Maya Perea (12), Libero
Sierra Sanchez (12), Setter
Mireya Sauceda-Gonzalez (12), Right Side Hitter
Sienna Harrington (11), Outside Hitter
Katelyn Sweetin (10), Middle Blocker
2nd Team
Ava Robertson (12), Setter
Sofia Eakes (11), Middle Blocker
Claire McCarthy (11), Right Side Hitter
Grace Grady (10), Setter
Senior
Student-Athlete
Representative
Ava Robertson (12), Setter
RED vs GREEN
ALL-STARS
Alyssa Bendinskas (12), Outside Hitter
Maya Perea (12), Libero
Ava Robertson (12) Setter
Sierra Sanchez (12), Setter
Mireya Sauceda-Gonzalez (12), Right Side Hitter
St. Pius X Boys Soccer Roster
Seniors
Head Coach
Juniors
Joaquin Aragon Roybal
RJ Bacon
Jude Benavides
Kenneth Calderon
David Cerrato
Adam Contreras
Carson Doherty
Jayden Gallegos
Alex Lucero
Landon Mileshosky
Tyler Mudd
Elijah Quinto
Nico Reyes
Christopher Ross
Hayden Toulouse
Dominic Vollbrecht
Jeremiah Woodhouse
Sophomores
Isaiah Barela Braeden Bauman
Elijah Campbell
Thiago Gonzales
James Gulley
Anthony Gustamantes
Diego Herrera
Christopher Justus
Marek Lovato
Mateo McMahan
Caiden Monaghan
Santiago Munoz
Dillon Muxworthy
Frankie Nayder
Jacob Roberts
Javier Suarez
Sebastian TrujilloGiordano
Trent Yarbrough
Freshmen
Sebastian Campos
Nicolas Certain
Joel Dabney
Andrew Gonzales
Anthony Gonzales
Brayden Jenkins
John Johnson
Xavier Leyva
Joaquin Lucero
Leo Patterson
Connor Sweetin
Eighth Graders
Luke Cito
Laurence Hernandez
Salvador Perez
Andres Rivas
AJ Herrera ’99
David Bunnell
Didier Herrera CAPTAIN
Ethan Wright CAPTAIN
Mateo Certain CAPTAIN
St. Pius X Boys Soccer Recap
Season Stats
Overall Record: 19-1-3
District Record: 8-0
District Champions
State Results: #1 Seed
4A State Champions
ALL- REGION FAR WEST TEAM
Nico Reyes, (11), Forward
ALL-STATE
1st Team
David Bunnell (12), Goalkeeper
Mateo Certain (12), Forward Didier Herrera (12), Midfielder
Ethan Wright (12), Forward Kenneth Calderon (11), Midfielder
Landon Mileshosky (11), Defender Nico Reyes (11), Forward Diego Herrera (10), Midfielder
2nd Team
Anthony Gustamantes (10), Defender
Christopher Justus (10), Defender
Santiago Munoz (10), Defender
ALL-DISTRICT
Players of the Year
Mateo Certain (12), Midfielder Nico Reyes (11), Forward
1st Team
David Bunnell (12), Goalkeeper
Mateo Certain (12), Midfielder
Didier Herrera (12), Midfielder
Ethan Wright (12), Forward
Kenneth Calderon (11), Midfielder
Landon Mileshosky (11),Defender
Nico Reyes (11), Forward
Anthony Gustamantes (10), Defender
Diego Herrera (10), Midfielder
Christopher Justus (10), Defender
Santiago Munoz (10), Defender
The St. Pius X Boys Soccer team entered the 2025 season with a chip on their shoulder. After winning the state championship in 2023, the team fell just short of going back-to-back last year. While the goals and expectations remained the same, there was a clear sense of unfinished business.
With 13 returning players, the team brought back plenty of offensive firepower. Defensively, however, most of the back line and the goalkeeper were new to the starting lineup. The potential was there, but the group needed time to gel. The Sartans went 2-1-2 in the Metro Tournament, finishing 2nd in the Silver Bracket. Although they competed well, they knew they would have to elevate their play to reach their ultimate goal.
A rematch of last year’s state championship came early in the season, as we traveled to face Academy in a non-district matchup. Similar to last year’s final, the game was a back-and-forth battle that ended in a 2-2 draw. With no penalty shootout to decide it, both teams knew the real test would come later in the season.
From there, the boys gained tremendous momentum. During a run of 13 straight wins, they outscored opponents 85-2 and recorded 11 shutouts. Dominant wins over top 4A programs: Los Alamos, Lovington, Artesia, and Hope Christian, helped secure the No. 1 seed in the state tournament for the third straight year.
The Sartans opened the quarterfinal round with a 6-2 win over Chaparral, powered by hat tricks from Junior Nico Reyes and Senior Ethan Wright. In the semifinals, five different players scored in a 5-0 victory over Artesia, setting up a championship rematch with Academy.
This time, the Sartans struck early and never looked back. Sophomore Christopher Justus scored the opening goal with a header off a corner from Sophomore Diego Herrera. Just four minutes later, Wright delivered the goal of the tournament, overpowering an Academy defender before weaving past two more and slotting the ball into the bottom corner. That cushion proved enough, as the defense and Senior Goalkeeper David Bunnell shut the door the rest of the way.
The win brought home the blue trophy for the second time in three years and marked the program’s 19th state championship. The 2-0 victory was the team’s 13th shutout in the last 15 games and pushed the season’s goal differential to a staggering +101 (116 goals for, 15 against). The 116 goals scored this year ranks as the second-highest total in program history. From front to back, the team came together at the right time and delivered one of the most dominant seasons in SPX soccer history.
Congratulations, Sartans!
Honorable Mention
Jude Benavides (11), Forward
Adam Contreras (11), Defender
Nico Certain (9), Midfielder
1st Team
Nico Reyes (11), Forward
2nd Team
Ethan Wright (12), Forward
Diego Herrera (10), Midfielder
RED vs GREEN ALL-STARS
Mateo Certain (12), Midfielder
Didier Herrera (12), Midfielder
Ethan Wright (12), Forward
St. Pius X Girls Soccer Roster
Seniors
Kaylee Perea CAPTAIN Alicia Sapien CAPTAIN
Head Coach
Nick Madrid ’07
Juniors
Bella Bustamante
Vanessa Cichy
Evangeline Garcia
Maddilyn Garcia, Captain
Dominica Lujan
Aubrey Rodela
Sophomores
Mia Hennessy
Penelope Lee
Elizabeth Ouellette
AnaLucia Torres Rael
Amara Torres
Freshmen
Viviana Chavez Quinn Hart
Eighth Graders
Genesis Guajardo
Jocelyn Herrera
Kayla Herrera
Leah Pino
Abigail Power
Juliana Warren
St. Pius X Girls Soccer Recap
Season Stats
Overall Record: 17-5
District Record: 8-0
District Champions
State Results: #3 Seed State Semifinalist
ALL-STATE
1st Team
Alicia Sapien (12), Defender
Vanessa Cichy (11), Forward Maddilyn Garcia (11), Midfielder
2nd Team
Kaylee Perea (12), Midfielder
Kayla Herrera (8), Forward
ALL-DISTRICT
Player of the Year
Vanessa Cichy (11), Forward
1st Team
Alicia Sapien (12), Defender
Kaylee Perea (12), Midfielder
Vanessa Cichy (11), Forward
Maddilyn Garcia (11), Midfielder
Amara Torres (10), Midfielder
Viviana Chavez (9), Defender
Jocelyn Herrera (8), Defender
Kayla Herrera (8), Forward
2nd Team
Bella Bustamante (11), Forward
Mia Hennessy (10), Defender
Penelope Lee (10), Defender
Elizabeth Ouellette (10), Goalkeeper
AnaLucia Torres Rael (10), Midfielder
Genesis Guajardo (8), Forward
Juliana Warren (8), Goalkeeper
Academic
All-District
(11th and 12th graders only, with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher)
Kaylee Perea (12), Midfielder
Alicia Sapien (12), Defender
Bella Bustamante (11), Forward
Vanessa Cichy (11), Forward
Maddilyn Garcia (11), Midfielder
The 2025 season showed incredible promise for the future of the program with notable victories over Atrisco Heritage, Rio Rancho (5A State Finalist), Albuquerque High (5A State Qualifier), Mayfield, Bosque (3A State Finalist), Los Alamos, and Aztec. The Lady Sartans welcomed four very competitive 8th graders to varsity, and all four played significant game minutes. Two of them were top five in total points for the season, while another was a starting center back, and the fourth was an up-and-coming net minder. The team also welcomed a gritty new freshman defender who will help fortify the defense in the coming years. Our five sophomores all logged important game minutes and played a big role in the team’s success. The six returning juniors are bound to lead the team with talent and experience next year. Junior Captain Maddilyn Garcia was third on the team in total points, and Junior Vanessa Cichy was first on the team and fourth in New Mexico, scoring 41 goals, 12 assists for a total of 94 points (all classifications). The two seniors were both captains and impact players. Alicia Sapien had a great senior season and fourth year on varsity playing every minute of every game at center back, while Kaylee Perea led the team in assists. Both seniors were selected to play in the Red vs. Green AllStar game in the postseason. Overall, it was an incredibly successful season defined by growth, enjoyment, and a culture of tradition and excellence carried on by these talented young women and led by Head Coach Nick Madrid ’07 and Assistant Coach Taylor Wilson ’24.
RED vs GREEN
Alicia Sapien (12), Defender
Kaylee Perea (12), Midfielder
Vanessa Cichy (11), Forward
St. Pius X Cross Country Roster
Senior Head Coach
Brown
Simon Lopez ’91
Juniors
Ryan Castillo, Captain
Stella Copeland, Captain
Takira Konico
Diego Paul
Sophomores
Silas Brown
Mia Cahill
Diego Gomez
Kaylee Gray
Sophia Labreche
Freshmen
Aats’aya Abeita
Vincent Cichy
Mckenzy Crilley
Kyrie Konico
Levi Lopez
John Paul Rimbert
Mateo Sanchez
Elijah Santos
Chloe Turek
Olivia Weber
Sage Yepa
Eighth Graders
Vanessa Castro
Liam
CAPTAIN
St. Pius X Cross Country Recap
Season Stats
Boys:
District Champions
Girls:
District Runner-Up
State Results Boys: 3rd Place
State Results Girls: 9th Place
ALL-STATE
Silas Brown (10)
ALL-DISTRICT
Liam Brown, 5th (12)
Silas Brown, 2nd (10)
Diego Gomez, 10th (10)
Mateo Sanchez, 3rd (9)
John Paul Rimbert, 4th (9)
Vicent Cichy, 7th (9)
Levi Lopez, 8th (9)
Sage Yepa, 9th (9)
Vanessa Castro, 5th (8)
Boys District
Coach of the Year
Simon Lopez ’91
ALL-METRO
Silas Brown (10)
This season, the St. Pius X Cross Country Team has arguably fielded the best boys team in nearly 20 years. Starting in the summer, with record mileage, the boys came into the season with a great base that paid dividends throughout the season. As the season progressed, the team showed significant time improvements from all runners from top to bottom. This kind of team running landed the Sartans their bestever 2nd place finish at their home Super Cinco Meet and best-ever 2nd place at the prestigious Academy Extravaganza. St. Pius X placed 8 runners in the top 11 finishers to win the district title in dominant fashion, led by four-time All-District performer and Senior Liam Brown. At the State Championship Meet, the Sartans finished 3rd, their best performance since 2007, and Sophomore Silas Brown finished 8th for the best individual boys’ performance since 2008.
In an exciting rebuilding year with a very young team, the girls put in hard work and welcomed several newcomers. Joining the boys running long miles and tough workouts, the girls topped off their season as District Runner-Up with All-District performances by Eighth Grader Vanessa Castro and Freshman Sage Yepa. Despite numerous injuries, the girls showed incredible effort and resilience by finishing 11th at the State Meet.
St. Pius X Cheer
Seniors
Head Coaches
Connor Hurley
Ashlyn Villanueva
Juniors
Sarah Butler
Kayla Padilla
Danni Waseta
Sophomores
Eleni Andritsos
Carly Camilli
Kelsey Carlin
Emma Carrigan
Bryanna Chacon
Kaliah Kingsolver
Lauren Mercer
Shane Pruitt
Sarah Stone
Cecelia White
Freshmen
Selycia Abeyta
Dulce Guillen
Dakota Herrera Salazar
Esperanza Jaure
Isabelle Moores
Samantha Nunez
Lily Sandoval
Denae Vaisa
Eighth Grader
Trinitee Salas
Lillian Miksch Mikayla Strickland CAPTAIN Eliana Saiz CAPTAIN
Photos by Athena of Anchored Memory Photography
Senior
Mikayla Paiz
CAPTAIN
Head Coach
Nicole Marquez
Juniors
Kaylah Haddad
Isabelle Soto
Sophomores
Kiara Ortiz
Jaycee Vallo
St. Pius X Dorados
Freshmen
Gabriela Certain
Isla Mudd
Alexandra Sais
Eva Sanchez
Jayla Sanchez
Victoria Standlee
Caitlin Tierney
Eighth Grader
Marina Martinez-De La Garza
Sixth Grader
Kaleigha Solis
St. Pius X Boys Basketball Roster
Seniors
Marcos Chavez Quinnlin Wilson
Head Coach
Ryan Myers ’09
Juniors
Isaiah Carpenter
Curtis Flakes III
Hershul Olloway Jr.
Luke Wrobel
Sophomores
Nico Casco
Xander Faux
Eli Gallegos
Christopher Justus
Dorian Kuria
Zachary Lujan
Caiden Monaghan
Christian Morales
Isaiah Olivas
Matthew Portee
Steven Vasquez
Trent Yarbrough
Freshmen
Tristan Bacon
Coen Burkett
Max Catanach
Joshua Fisher
Cruz Gonzales
Pablo Lujan
Hunter Marsh
Xavier Martinez
Sebastian Pino
Maddox Richardson
Jacob Salazar
Alexander Sims
Julian Smith
Will Wrobel
Eighth Graders
Angelo Lucero
Cy Saenz
Senior
Mikaela Trujillo
CAPTAIN
Head Coach
Bree Rode
Juniors
Leia Aguon
Maddy Warren
Zia Valdez
Sophomores
Gnilane Thiam
Kaylee Gray
Milanah Sanchez
Freshmen
Ava Erasmus
Jaelyn Olloway
Kya Porter
Olivia Weber
Sage Yepa
St. Pius X Girls Basketball Roster
Eighth Graders
Tristan Adams
Addison Love
Amiyah Cunningham
Vanessa Castro
Eli Hare
Leah Pino
Makayla Maxwell
Lily Sanchez
Lilly Tsethlikai
St. Pius X Boys & Girls Wrestling Roster
Seniors
Head Coach
Daniel Argueta
Junior
Ashante Roybal, Manager
Sophomores
Livy Chavez, 105
Loni Hernandez,150
Zachary Katz, 150
Mathew Longdon, 138
Richard “Alfredo” Martinez II, 126
Avi Phlieger, 120
Dane Russell, 215, 190
Freshmen
Zachary Brito, 150
Connor Foster 190, 175
Kai Gachupin,132
Lilly Gallegos, 125
Emiley Keyope, 130
Sam Mosley, 126
Isabella Vallejos, 130
Olliver Windom, 157
Eighth Grader
Norton, 106
Charles
Mycah Gachupin 144
Tony Ruiz 285
Matthias Marquez 126
Dane Padilla 120 Valentine Popadiuc 157
TJ Maldonado 165
Seniors
St. Pius X Boys & Girls Swimming Roster
Head Coach
Daryl Wells
Juniors
John Carney
Stella Copeland
Connor Doherty
Madelyn Garcia
Alicia Garcia-Haynie
Ashlee Lucero
Clare Rimbert
Griffin Wells
Branson Whitson
Sophomores
Emily Armijo, Manager
Isaiah Barela
Sydney Dexel
Brandon Manzanares
Elizabeth Ouellette
Lucy Pouska
Sarah Stone, Manager
Makenzie Underwood
Freshmen
Munyaradzi Dube
Rika Garcia
Charlie Hollowwa
Aurelia Lasater
Thomas Schloss
Emma Welch
Eighth Graders
Santiago Acevedo
Bradley Bolton
Brisa Chavez
Evan Dussault
Ella Duque
Asher Myers
Giovanni Urrutia
Danira Madrid CAPTAIN
Audrey Phelps CAPTAIN
St. Pius X AcaDec Roster
Seniors
Teacher/Moderator
Mr. James Penn
Sophomores
Emily Armijo
Nashay Baca
Celia Horton
Marisa Sapien
Freshman
Emiley Keyope
Mellery Apodaca Kathryn Egberg Miranda Barela
Seniors
Athletic Trainers
Ms. Kylee Dorsee
Mrs. Ashley Padilla
St. Pius X Sports Medicine Roster
Juniors
Sarah Butler
Isaiah Carpenter
Curtis Flakes
Sienna Harrington
Aubrey Rodela
Marcos Chavez
Logan Underwood
Danira Madrid James Martinez Sophia Trujillo
Didier Herrera
Around the X: Middle School Recap
St. Pius X Middle School: A Year of Growth, Leadership, and Innovation
Now in its second full year, St. Pius X Middle School continues to flourish as a vibrant, faith-centered community where students are growing as learners, leaders, and disciples. With 360 middle school students enrolled this year, SPX has become a dynamic hub of activity, academic engagement, and spiritual formation.
One of the additions this year is the new Christian Leadership class, whose students have enthusiastically shaped school culture. They plan and host major student events, including the Middle School Luau, Homecoming activities, and movie nights, while volunteering at Grandparents Day, welcoming new students, organizing donation drives, and supporting liturgical planning.
Our middle schoolers are active contributors to campus faith life as lectors, altar servers, choir members, and greeters during school Masses. Academically, SPX continues to offer strong pathways for advanced learning, with over 60 students enrolled in accelerated math or high school-level language courses.
This year marks a significant leap forward in academic innovation with the launch of our new science curriculum and the addition of STEM and AI labs. Under the leadership of Mr. Wells, students now have access to a fully equipped makerspace, a dedicated wet lab, and a robotics area. Middle school scientists thrive in a hands-on environment across STEM 6, Life Science 7, and Physical Science 8, engaging in inquiry, experimentation, and real-world problem solving.
The arts also continue to shine. Our drama elective presented festive Halloween and Christmas performances, and the Middle School Drama Club staged a full production of A Wrinkle in Time in December. Students in the new Dance elective enjoy learning a variety of styles in the SPX dance studio, adding energy and creativity to our fine arts offerings.
To support diverse learners, more than 50 students benefit from our SOAR program, including a SOAR elective in which students learn important executive function, self-advocacy, and study skills. Our dedicated Middle School counselor provides SEL lessons, anti-bullying initiatives, and ongoing academic and emotional support.
St. Pius X Middle School is truly growing in spirit, leadership, innovation, and excellence.
Around the X: Middle School Athletics
Middle School Sports Dominate Fall 2025
Middle School Athletics in the Fall of 2025 has continued to surpass all expectations at St. Pius X School. Many young athletes have participated and showcased their talents, helping establish a reputation for Sartan Middle School Athletics right from the start. This fall, the program began with six volleyball teams, two coed soccer teams, one coed golf team, one coed crosscountry team, one mid-school Razzle Dazzle cheer team, and a mid-school Dorados dance team. The program expanded participation numbers by almost 50 students from the 2024 season.
At the start of the winter season, we have four girls’ basketball teams, one coed swim team, and one coed wrestling team. The young athletes of St. Pius X school have continued to succeed on whatever playing surface they compete. We are extremely proud of these young men and women. They have worn the X on their jersey with pride and have exemplified what St. Pius X athletics is all about. Looking ahead in Middle School Athletics, we are excited to start boys’ basketball, flag football, track and field, baseball, and softball. If you are interested in coaching or have any questions about middle school athletics, contact the SPX Athletics Office or the head coach of each high school program.
Around the X: Homecoming 2025
A Once Upon a Time Homecoming
Students, alumni, and the entire SPX community celebrated Homecoming Week, bursting with fairy-tale Sartan spirit as the Disney-themed “Once Upon a Time Homecoming” filled the halls.
The week kicked off with the annual Homecoming parade, beginning with the SPX Cheer Team rallying the crowd. The Dorados then led the parade of fall sports and launched straight into their joint performance with the “Brorados,” leading up to the grand finale, the introduction of the court, all dressed in their themed costumes.
Mid-week celebrations continued with the time-honored bonfire, ignited by the SPX Cross Country Team. Flames cast a mystic glow on the evening as Sartans, new and old, experienced the tradition of the magical event.
Next up was the Homecoming game, where SPX faced off against the Organ Mountain Knights, taking the win with a 28-21 victory!
At halftime, Kolbe Padilla and Maya Perea were crowned as the Homecoming King and Queen. The High Court also included First Prince Ashton Warren, First Princesses Aliyah Lucero and Eliana Saiz, and Second Prince Tony Ruiz. Other court members included James Martinez and Raph Neel for the boys, and Jasmine Martinez and Sophia Trujillo for the girls.
The week ended with the traditional Homecoming Dance, where everyone enjoyed an enchanted evening. And as the clock struck 10:30, carriages turned into pumpkins and footmen into mice.
Around the X: Campus Ministry
St. Pius X Feast Day Mass
The first Mass of the year was held on the feast day of our Patron Saint, Pope Pius X, on August 21, 2025. It was a beautiful and memorable way to bless the new school year in celebration of our present, past, and future. St. Pius X, Pray for Us!
All-School Rosary
St. Pius X students came together as a community for the first All-School Rosary of the year, taking time to reflect on the mysteries and center their hearts on our Lord. The schoolwide gathering was organized by Fr. Trambley and Mrs. Allard, with support from Christian Leadership.
Around the X: Campus Ministry
Native American Thanksgiving Mass
The Native American Thanksgiving Mass was celebrated by Archbishop John C. Wester, Father John Trambley, and Deacon Tim Parker, honoring our Native American students and their families. Archbishop Wester gave an insightful homily about gratitude and acknowledging appreciation. In preparation for the liturgy, our schoolwide community collected food for the Barrett Foundation, St. Felix Pantry, St. Bernadette Parish, and John XXIII. Thanks to the generosity of our families, we exceeded our goal, donating an estimated 6,000 pounds of food. Christian Leadership students from both the middle and high schools played a key role in organizing and coordinating the collection.
Before the final blessing, Alumnus Clint Begay ’93 addressed the student body about how St. Pius X gave him the foundation for his success on the golf course, which led to his success in life. After the Mass, a traditional lunch was hosted for honored guests, faculty, and staff by the SPX Native American Club.
Christmas Mass
On December 12th, the St. Pius X Family gathered to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The Mass was celebrated by Fr. Trambley and Deacon Parker. In honor of the Virgin Mary, our students participated in something new this year. Instead of the traditional toy drive, St. Pius X partnered with the Diocese of Gallup to provide basic items to families in their community and 100 youth in the CYFD system who are homeless this Christmas.
Thanks to the generosity of our St. Pius X Family, 46 boxes of necessities were collected, including shampoo/conditioner, soap, deodorant, winter hats, snacks, gloves, makeup bags, sweatshirts, blankets, toys, and more! One hundred backpacks and duffel bags will also be donated to CYFD for displaced teens who currently have no home within our city.
Around the X: Fall Concert
SPX Fall Concert Celebrates
Musical Excellence Across
All Levels
The SPX Fall Music Concert was a celebration of student talent, dedication, and growth in the Fine Arts program. Middle and high school musicians took the stage to perform a diverse repertoire from orchestral classics to contemporary hits.
The Middle School Orchestra opened the evening with Romani Dance, Sailor Medley, and French Folk Song, featuring soloists Lucas Albonico, Mitchy Garcia, Ambrosio Sanchez, and Liliana Sandoval. The Middle School Band followed with spirited performances by Eli Brito, Laura Brown, Gabriela Gomez, Gus Gribble, Henry Hollowwa, Jacob Humbel, Luke Humbel, Lucas Maestas, and Shane Mosley. The Middle School Choir captivated with For the Beauty of the Earth, Hold Fast to Dreams, and Sing Me to Heaven, highlighting Alexandrea Bolton, Caileigh Hulskamp, Richard Moores, Michael Ortiz, Wren Phlieger, Michaela Trimble, and Lilliana Tsethlikai.
The concert concluded with High School ensembles. The Orchestra performed the “Billy Tell” Overture, Fiddler’s Stroll, and selections from La La Land. Violinists Sydney Dexel, Jude Gallegos, Rika Garcia, Owen Keetso, Jaydyn Morgese, Avi Phlieger, Caitlin Tierney, and Dominic Bellisario performed. The High School Band energized the audience with Fanfare for the Fearless, Upbeat!, and a Marching Band Medley, performed by Paul Brown, David Cerrato-Zalud, Jordan Donoghue, Charlie Hollowwa, John Johnson, Levi Lopez, Abraham Martinez, and Lucy Pouska. The Bel Canto Choir concluded with Alleluia, The Seal Lullaby, and Sing Me to Heaven, provided a heartfelt close to the evening.
Bravo to all SPX student musicians and directors for an inspiring Fall Concert!
Around the X: Drama
SPX Drama Brings a Modern Hero to Life
Heroes walk among us every day, and that was evident in the SPX’s drama department’s fall production of In The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. It was a powerful and moving play that takes you inside the brilliant mind of young Christopher as he unravels the truth. The heart of this show is witnessing this boy becoming a man. The story begins when a dog is found dead, and fifteen-year-old Christopher Boone is determined to solve the mystery. Mr. Stephen Armijo was inspired by his freshman Honors Class’s curriculum of studying the hero’s journey when he chose The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. He stated, “Oftentimes we think of our heroes as sword-wielding knights or masked caped crusaders; most of the time heroes look just like you and me. Christopher is a hero I look up to. I hope someday to be as brave, independent, and strong as Christopher.”
Audience reviews were outstanding, in addition to the accolades from Director, Mr. Armijo, “I could sing praises of every cast member on stage. I’m sure you noticed that many of them stayed on stage throughout the show. The endurance races this ensemble performed on stage were no easy feat, and their roles in anchoring and supporting the many characters in this world are crucial. Senior Hayden Maestas and juniors John Carney and Sophia Pacheco were punching high above their weight class when it came to their performances. Finally, senior Miranda Barela shone as Christopher; the sensitivity and humanity she brought to his journey were incredible. Her performance never felt like a caricature, but instead like meeting a completely different person. I was in awe of the cast’s professionalism and intensity.”
Senior Miranda Barela commented on her experience of being selected as part of the cast, “What I took away from being a member of this cast is how to support others and accept support in return. This play was quite emotionally charged, and to make everything work, we had to have complete faith and trust in one another. It wasn’t always easy, but I think we all learned patience and understanding as the rehearsal process continued.”
As the SPX drama journey is soon ending for some of its senior members, Senior Hayden Maestas commented on her experience over the last three and a half years, “My greatest achievement in the theater department has been being able to fill my life with so many wonderful people. Some of the people I have met through theater have become my best friends and will be for the rest of my life. They are such a wonderful group of people whom I am very blessed to be a part of.”
The SPX Drama Department’s next show is Peter Pan in the Spring of 2026.
Around the X: Dorados Christmas Show
The Dorados Bring the Magic of Christmas
For Nikki Marquez, the SPX Dorados Coach, dance has long been a powerful form of expression, blending emotion, discipline, and storytelling through movement. Mrs. Marquez’s passion began at the age of three and has grown into a lifelong journey rooted in performance, competition, and teaching. Her dance background ranges from a variety of styles, including jazz, hip hop, Folklórico, and contemporary lyrical. As a high school dancer, she was part of a competitive dance team that traveled to national competitions and earned three solo titles at regional events. That experience opened doors to unique performance opportunities, including an appearance in the Hula Bowl halftime show. As an adult, she continued to pursue her love of dance professionally, performing with Albuquerque’s former semi-professional basketball teams, the New Mexico Slam, and later as a member of the Storm Chasers dance team. Alongside performing, she developed a deep love for teaching, sharing her passion with younger dancers by instructing and choreographing soloists at Duke City Stars Dance Studio. Now at St. Pius X, she brings that same energy and dedication to the Dorados dance program, aiming to instill in her students that dance is not only an art form but also a way to build confidence, respect, and commitment. Her goal is to help students grow both as performers and individuals through the discipline and joy of movement.
That passion was clearly showcased during the Dorados Christmas Showcase. The event began with a team performance of “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” setting a festive tone for the night. The program featured various individual and small-group performances, highlighting Dorados’ versatility and talent. Two of the night’s most memorable moments included a special performance by the Dorado dads (the Dadrodos), followed by a lively routine from the “Broados” to “Jingle Bell Rock.” Additional performances by individuals, small groups, and the team followed, closing in a team finale of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” The evening wrapped up with a surprise visit from Santa Claus. Merry Christmas, Sartans!
Around the X: Band & Choir Christmas Show
SPX Fine Arts Department Comes Together to Bring Holiday Cheer
The St. Pius X Christmas Concert was a celebration of music, drama, and holiday spirit. The evening opened with Drama 1 Christmas Sketches, featuring Maya Henderson, Ethan Machtinger, and Victoria Standlee in Elf on a Shelf; Angelica Borquez, Ashlynn Bowers, and Madison Zuni in Jingle Bells; and Atticus Deely, Emmalina DeVargas, and Oliver Windom in Your “Presents” is Requested.
The Middle School Orchestra performed classics, Deck the Halls, Jingle Bells, and Jolly Old Saint Nicholas. The Middle/High School Band followed with A Cumbia Christmas, Holiday Wish, A Joyous Christmas, and Mechanical Monsters, showcasing the talents of student musicians across all grade levels. The High School Orchestra concluded the first half with Do You Hear What I Hear?, Christmas in the Round, and A Charlie Brown Christmas, ending with a festive Orchestra and Choir Combined Finale.
The Combined Choir opened the second half with Feliz Navidad. The Middle School Choir performed The Little Drummer Boy, Carol of the Bells, and Winter’s Song, with soloists Asther Webb (Oh Ms. Believer), Julianna Matthews (O Come, O Come Emmanuel), Isabelle Canfield (Mary Did You Know), Capri Granados (O Holy Night), and a quartet of Sydney Dexel, Sarah Stone, Capri Granados, and Griffin Wells (Winter Wonderland).
The High School Choir delighted the audience with a Polar Express Medley, White Winter Hymnal, and I Wonder as I Wander, featuring violinist Caitlin Tierney. The concert concluded with the Combined Choir performing Peace, Peace (Silent Night).
From drama sketches to orchestral and choral performances, the SPX Christmas Concert showcased the talents and holiday spirit of students, making it an unforgettable start to the season.
