the index The student voice since 1888
The Haverford School · Haverford, PA 19041 · November 2019 · Volume 87, No. 3 · thsindex.org
EA
DAY 2019 DANIEL CHOW ’20
Brennan McBride ’20 looks upfield against EA at home, October 15, 2019 Austin Zhuang ’22
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t’s that time of year again: The Fords make sure the Episcopal Academy goes another winter without the sweater. The fall sports teams for Haverford and EA battle it out for the chance to take home the coveted split sweater, with the vibrant maroon and gold of Haverford on one side and the dull blue and white of EA on the other. Last year, we reclaimed the prize from EA after formidable wins from water polo and soccer and some narrow victories in cross country and golf. This year, the Fords have a tough road towards keeping the sweater. Kicking things off at 11:00 sharp are the golf and cross country teams. The Inter-Ac champion Haverford golf squad faces strong competitors in the form of PAISAA champions EA. Despite EA’s title, Haverford also had a strong showing at PAISAA, missing the crown by just three strokes. This strong performance at the championship, coupled with their great season, favors Haverford for the win in golf this year. Cross country faces a hard battle with an EA team that defeated us earlier in the season
Football, p. 9
MR. THOMAS STAMBAUGH
Water polo, p. 11
MR. JIM ROESE
at EA with a score of 23–34. Despite a strong season overall put up by the running squad, this resounding loss is not something easily overlooked, especially since EA Day is, sadly, in enemy territory. Starting at 11:30, the dominant Haverford water polo team faces off against a struggling EA squad. Earlier this season, the water polo team devastated Episcopal with a score of 21–10. They didn’t stop there, averaging around 20 points per game for the remainder of the season. In addition, the team finished undefeated with a resounding 26-1 record with their only loss against the number-one team on the East Coast. The results are there: another dominating win over EA this year. 12:30 kicks off the soccer match between Fords soccer and a struggling EA team on a two-game losing streak, with the Churchmen losing to both Malvern and GA recently. Fords soccer played EA earlier this year, controlling the pace for most of the game until EA fired a lucky shot with less than a minute left in the second half to win the game. The command and dominance throughout most of the game carried over
Golf, p. 13
MR. JIM ROESE
to the next three games, where the team had a clean sheet with 14 goals to 0. With this strong comeback after a tough loss, the Fords are poised for a massive game this year.
To finish the day off, Haverford football takes the field at 2 p.m. The squad looks to avenge their loss last year, and they are poised to do just that. To finish the day off, Haverford football takes the field at 2 p.m. The squad looks to avenge their loss last year, and they are poised to do just that. After a rather shaky 1-2 start to the season, the Fords dominated to end the rest of the season with a final record of 5-3. While EA is undefeated as of now, they’ve had difficulties throughout most of their games. This, coupled with our recent dominance over Penn Charter, will lead to a likely win.
Cross-country, p. 10
SEBASTIAN BILASH ’20
the index · editorial
Page 2
the index 2019–2020 Staff Yan Graf ’20 Editor-in-Chief Ryan LaRocca ’20 Editor-in-Chief Toby Ma ’20 Editor-in-Chief Daniel Chow ’20 Managing Editor Matthew Schwartz ’21 Managing Editor Tyler Zimmer ’21 Managing Editor Obaida Elamin ’20 Design Editor
November 2019
editorial The force is with us, always
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uzzing, the Fords are. In just the last week alone, golf secured the Inter-Ac title. Cross country looks strong heading into EA Day, having recorded some impressive times in recent races at Belmont Plateau. Soccer won its first game of the PAISAA State tournament 6-0. Fords water polo won its first Easterns Championship in the school’s history. And last Saturday, the football Fords defeated Malvern Prep and hence will play in an EA Day game that effectively determines the league championship.
EA must be defeated. It is that simple. President Scuazzo’s campaign slogan must ring true—it simply must. The talent, the Fords have. But more importantly, the spirit, the brotherhood, the Fords have as well. This has been the year of the student body. All events elicit a crowd, men support their brothers, men bleed maroon and gold. And the culmination of Haverford’s fall sports will bring the largest, most passionate crowds of all. In unison, the Fords will stand. There to win—but more importantly, there to support their brothers.
The EA rivalry is one of Haverford’s historic traditions. Have fun, men. Make good choices, as Mr. Lengel would say. Be there for your brothers. Partake in tradition this Saturday. And most importantly, witness your school bring home the sweater for the second straight year! The Index looks forward to reporting on a crushing victory for the Fords. It will be cold this winter. Need that sweater, we will.
Quinn Luong ’22 News Editor Jeffrey Yang ’22 News Editor Matt Mignucci ’20 Features Editor Agustin Aliaga ’21 Academics Editor Vincent Scauzzo ’20 Neighborhood Editor Cole Stecker ’20 Campus Opinions Editor Jon Krouse ’20 Off-Campus Opinions Editor James Wang ’21 Off-Campus Opinions Editor Jake LaRocca ’22 Sports Editor Mitav Nayak ’22 Sports Editor Ryan Rodack ’22 Arts Editor Sebastian Bilash ’20 Photography Editor Ethan Pollack ’21 Staff Photographer Sam Slane ’21 Website Editor Ms. Emily Harnett Faculty Advisor Mr. Thomas Stambaugh Faculty Advisor
The Index is a student-run publication of the Haverford School that does more than bring news: it provides the diverse perspectives of the Haverford student body. It is an outlet for student writers to take stands on issues they deem important. It chronicles the daily struggles and accomplishments of the Haverford community. The Index also provides a forum for discussion of pertinent issues, such as student culture, academic policy, and Haverford’s place in world affairs. The Index presents new ideas and aspires to influence constructive change.
SEBASTIAN BILASH ’20
The 2019-20 Editorial Board (left to right): Editor-in-Chief Ryan LaRocca ’20, Managing Editor Tyler Zimmer ’21, Editor-in-Chief Toby Ma ’20, Managing Editor Daniel Chow ’20, Editor-in-Chief Yan Graf ’20. Missing: Managing Editor Matthew Schwartz ’21 and Design Editor Obaida Elamin ’20
Letter from the student body president Vincent Scauzzo ’20
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A must be defeated.
All opinions and viewpoints expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of The Index or the school. The Index is designed and produced digitally. Photographs may be retouched. Submissions and letters to the editors regarding any and all articles are welcomed at index@haverford.org. The Index, a member of the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, is composed using the applications of Google Suite and Adobe Creative Cloud. Its surveys are conducted via SurveyMonkey and are advertised on Facebook to current Haverford students. Graphic designs are created by Index staff via Canva. Southern Dutchess News prints 200-400 copies of each issue, and its editorial staff distributes them in the Upper School on the day of release. The Index serves the needs of a total school population of 1152 community members, consisting of 952 students and 200 faculty and staff members. Contact The Index: 450 Lancaster Ave, Haverford, PA 19041 index@haverford.org Twitter: @Haverford_Index Volume LXXXVII, No. 3 - November 7, 2019
Student body president Vincent Scauzzo ’20
JAMES WANG ’21 INDEX STAFF
the index · news
Page 3
November 2019
news Students’ sleep affects athletic performance Connor Pinsk ’23
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rriving home at 6:00 to 6:30 pm, attempting to complete all homework assignments, coping with fatigue; these are all facets of many students’ lives. For student-athletes, sports can create a vicious cycle of weariness that lasts until the weekend. Football is one of the most grueling and tiring sports. Drill after drill, players prepare for their games every day. Often, practices run for hours after school, pushing athletes’ bedtimes late into the night and leading to poor moods. According to nationwidechildrens.org, high school students should be getting at least nine and a half hours of sleep.
“I strive for around nine hours, but I really only get seven.” “I strive for around nine hours, but I really only get seven. I tend to be more cranky when I am tired,” Third Form JV football player Cole Donnelly said. Varsity soccer involves lots of athletic capabilities from players. Fatigue certainly makes learning more challenging. “Yes, at times, but not often,” Third Form varsity soccer player Joey Pariano said. Student-athletes share a lack of sleep that affects their moods. Pariano said the days go much better if he can get more sleep. This cycle of fatigue not only creates a lousy learning environment for student-athletes, but changes their attitudes, creating a less enjoyable school experience.
INDEX STAFF
The alarm clock: the sound of pain, the end of dreams
TOBY MA ’20
the index · features
Page 4
November 2019
features A student’s experience at SpeakUp! Quinn luong ’22
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ver the last month, about 40 students from Haverford and Agnes Irwin worked with Speak Up!, a youth-driven, interactive program that brings young people, educators, and parents together for a shared dialogue. This year focused on five main topics of high school life: substances, expectations and societal pressures, sex, relationships, and mental health. The student-leadership team took charge and picked the topics of breakout sessions. Throughout the three leadership meetings, participants interacted and expressed their thoughts on each individual topic. Although some situations were uncomfortable, they helped students get used to leading the conversation, which benefited them in later breakout sessions.
I wanted to learn more about the connection between parent and student expectations, social life, and racial expectations. The event on October 23rd started with an introductory gathering with an amusing, interactive game show about our topics. Helpful and important suggestions arose from the game: avoid distractions, be calm, honor privacy, create a safe environment, suspend judgment, and share your experiences rather than give advice. 75-minute small breakout sessions followed, facilitated by student leaders and working professionals. I picked the topic of expectations and societal pressures. I wanted to learn more about the connection between parent and student expectations, social life, and racial
SpeakUp! participants at last year’s fall session, October 17, 2018 expectations. Entering the breakout session, I hardly knew what to expect. Our professional facilitator, parents, and other students sparked questions about the interesting and vast topic. This new atmosphere filled with parents and students I did not know was uncomfortable but rewarding. I was fearful of sharing my own personal experiences and thoughts because I did not know if this was an accepting or understanding environment.
After we got to know everybody, I started off the conversation with the subtopic of school expectations and how it influences us. Surprisingly, many of the adults shared their own experiences and opinions. It felt welcoming, to have someone understand and empathize with your thoughts. The diverse opinions enhanced the conversation and made us think. These conversations on social life, specifically the expectations of your friends, made
COURTESY OF MS. BROOKE KENNA
us communicate our thoughts when we would usually never have these discussions. Speak Up! is incredibly rewarding for students who struggle. Identifying your struggles and others who feel the same is deeply valuable for the Haverford community.
Homecoming: A student’s honest review Sam Reisbord ’20
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here is a certain aura surrounding high-school “prom.” Movies and shows like the climax of Footloose or an episode of Riverdale form a stereotype and standard: over-dressed girls taking pictures with other girls, two best friends wearing Ray-Bans on an overcast day, and the underclassmen arriving late, forced to take the boutonniere photo over in the corner. Prom represents the essence of highschool students trying their best to imitate the formality of a wedding. Homecoming, on the other hand, does the opposite. As I walked into the wrestling room on October 26th, I felt like I was walking into the Haverford School State Fair. One girl I had not talked to since middle school immediately ran up to me and picked up our last conversation right where it had left off. We hugged, then parted ways. Two steps forward, I ran into my Danish friends who appeared to be cosplaying the Beatles on the cover of The U.S. Albums box set. When I glanced up, my best friend was on stage wearing a tie-dye shirt playing “Mr. Brightside.” Later on, the band was outside the bathroom, posing for the next NSYNC album cover by the rail. Everywhere, suits were matching unintentionally. I loved every minute of this inaugural event. I felt at home with each buzz and jeer. I am sure that my experience at Haverford, all thirteen moon-cycles, played a large role in just how much I got out of it. As the night wound down, conversations began shifting to where people were head-
ing afterward. Teachers and students alike counted down until 9:00 when the doors would open the other way. Unlike prom, the whole tone felt schoolendorsed. If you browbeat students into a falsified sense of formality and structure, you are essentially asking for the movie-esque drama that goes along with it. Conversely, when a massive show of school pride is put on without pressure, positive results follow.
The essence of our culture builds up gradually throughout the day until the breaking point where fireworks go off, streamers fall, and sleep-deprived students enjoy themselves for six consecutive hours. Homecoming, obviously, does not compete with prom, but it did end up achieving a sense of truth and reality. It was more us.
The Rip fords performing at homecoming on October 26, 2019
INDEX STAFF
COURTESY OF DYLAN DINUBILE ’20
the index · academics
Page 5
November 2019
academics EA Week defines our community spirit Sam Reisbord ’20
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f the goal here is to re-evaluate EA Week, the first thing to consider is what we, as Haverford students, are hoping to get out of this school in the first place, as well as what the school hopes we become as a result of being here. Academic excellence is obviously a monstrous component, but I’d like to point out that the main goal of academics is to teach students how to think rather than force-feeding them minute details. Consider our finals—they regularly reject testing the niche formulas and theorems in favor of the broad concepts, and everyone understands why. Nothing of significance is lost during any one week of school; one week does not
a school year make. No major concepts are forcibly left out because we have it. With
Haverford is more than a means to an end. The school has an obligation to facilitate friendships and camaraderie, while also shaping men of character. that in mind, it’s rather obvious how much EA Week contributes to the community. It is the time of year when the entire upper school comes together. The most reserved students give in to school pride, and the newest community members feel a part of
Soccer fans at home vs. SCHA, October 25, 2019
something bigger. Haverford is more than a means to an end. The school has an obligation to facilitate friendships and camaraderie, while also shaping men of character. It’s the same reason why we host a prom, put on plays, and have a costume contest. It’s unlikely that many students will make strong bonds in just one day—I’ll concede that much—but it is certainly plausible that the spirit this day facilitates will lead to such relationships in the future. EA Day (and the week before it) lays the groundwork for who we are as people. Removing it would turn us into drones.
MR. THOMAS STAMBAUGH
Coach Murphy speaks at Monday’s kick-off assembly
OBAIDA ELAMIN ’20
the index · neighborhood
Page 6
November 2019
neighborhood How the Aronimink Golf Club prepares for EA Day Jake Maddaloni ’21
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he much anticipated EA Day is just around the corner for the Fords’ golf team. The Fords will play at Episcopal’s home course, Aronimink Golf Club, which was home to the 2018 BMW championship and will be the site of the 2026 PGA championship. Aronimink has proven to be a challenging course when the greens are firm and fast—exactly the way Aronimink’s PGA professional, Cameron Small, expects the greens to be on EA Day.
“The greens will be rolled in the morning, making them even faster,” Small said. “They should be in perfect condition when Haverford and Episcopal tee it up.” “The greens will be rolled in the morning, making them even faster,” Small said. “They should be in perfect condition when Haverford and Episcopal tee it up.” The Episcopal Academy has chosen to play the course from roughly 6,650 yards, but it’s expected to be a brisk day when the teams tee off. The chilly weather will result in the golf ball losing carry distance, meaning the golf course will play longer than 6,650 yards. “The course will play a touch more difficult for Haverford-Episcopal Day than a normal day during the golf season because of the cold weather,” Small said. Both the Haverford and Episcopal golf teams have talented players of their own and look to figure out a way to shoot low scores
Aronimink’s clubhouse, nestled behind the ninth green at the challenging Aronimink course. firm fairways will allow the golf ball to take The greens will undoubtedly be a test for a large bounce and roll out an extra ten to both teams considering the conditions Small twenty yards after it lands on the fairway, expects. Since the weather is predicted to be leading Small to believe that players from nearly 42 degrees Fahrenheit on EA Day, it both Haverford and Episcopal can shoot low is safe to assume the fairways at Aronimink scores on EA Day. will be rock hard. The cold weather will “All of these young kids can hit their drivmake players lose carry distance, but the ers far enough to put themselves in scoring
JAKE MADDALONI ’21
opportunities. It’s just a matter of how close they hit their approach shots. Sticking iron shots close to the pin will be a challenge given the firmness of the green.” Small said. “I think the firm fairways will allow the players to go low. It’s just a matter of how they manage their shots around the green.”
Spread Bagelry needs to toast a little longer EA’s recent campus L history Cole Stecker ’20
a Colombe is arguably the best coffee shop on the Main Line, and therefore a hotspot for Haverford School students. If one were to walk through Wilson Hall in the morning, one would surely see many students with the signa-
ture tall La Colombe coffee cans. Now why might I start my review of a bagel shop talking about La Colombe? Spread Bagelry just opened up only a few steps from La Colombe. This is the brand’s second location, with the first in Center City
Philadelphia. I was excited to hear about this new location. Not only had I been to the one in Philadelphia before, but I was also excited to have a food place so close to
Evan Brabson ’20
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con’t on p. 7
he Episcopal Academy moved from its previous location in Merion to its new location in Newtown Square in 2008, purchasing a 123acre parcel of land for around $20 million. The added space provided the school with luxuries such as ample parking, lots of athletic fields, and a private cross-country course. But the property came with an unusual history.
EA sits upon land that was once part of a large estate. The Austin family owned over seven hundred acres in the area. EA sits upon land that was once part of a large estate. The Austin family owned over seven hundred acres in the area. William Liseter Austin, the president of Baldwin Locomotive Works, owned a 200-acre parcel adjacent to EA’s campus. Austin gave his estate to his daughter, Jean Liseter Austin, who married William du Pont, Jr., in 1920. The du Ponts built a large mansion on the Liseter Farm in 1920 for themselves. A glimpse inside Bryn Mawr’s Spread Bagelry
SEBASTIAN BILASH ’20
con’t on p. 7
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the index · campus opinions
November 2019
campus opinions EA sows complications into schedule Cole Stecker ’20
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A is scared. After our overwhelming victory last year, EA may have decided to use any available tactics to impede our conquest. I am of course referring to EA’s decision to have golf and cross country happen at the same time.
EA is scared. After our overwhelming victory last year, EA may have decided to use any available tactics to impede our conquest. This departure from the usual EA Day schedule must be in response to last year. The
Spread, continued from the previous page my favorite coffee shop. So what is the place actually like? Well first off, the aesthetic is amazing, with nice places to sit and an interesting atmosphere. When I first arrived, I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of staff working there, as lack of staffing is one of the major problems for new breakfast places. I assumed that due to the number of workers, I would receive my food quickly, but I was incorrect. I ordered a bacon, egg, and cheese on a bagel and had to wait around ten minutes. I quickly forgave them because the shop had just opened last week, and they were probably still figuring everything out.
previous EA Day saw the greatest showing of Haverford students in recent memory, as the event was held during school hours and all students were allowed to attend. The mayhem that ensued was magical. Rows filled with cheering Haverford students were without a doubt a major factor in our narrow victory. And it is likely for this reason that EA has decided moved cross country and golf to the same time slot. EA really wants to win the sweater this year. Their decision to sow conflict between the sports is meant to split the student sections. EA thinks this will help them win, but in reality it will only make our students feistier during water polo, soccer, and football. I understand why EA made
the change, and I think in the short term it is a smart move, but it will not end well for them. We will, of course, win EA Day
Our senior class is already one of the most, dare I say, “rowdy” classes to ever pass through the school, and their spirits will only grow more enraged with EA’s attempts to silence them.
INDEX STAFF
Our senior class is already one of the most, dare I say, “rowdy” classes to ever pass through the school. Their spirits will only grow more enraged with EA’s attempts to silence them. Good luck, EA. You’re going to need it.
this year, and the student section will be especially fired up.
EA, continued from the previous page They also built a large barn and a dirt race track next to Route 252 (Newtown Street
du Pont changed the name to Foxcatcher Farm, an homage to the horse stables. He built a state-of-the-art wrestling facility used to train the American Olympic wrestling team. Road) to breed and train several champion racehorses in the 1930s. The large pastures provided ample riding space. When Jean died in 1988, her son John du Pont inherited the estate. du Pont changed
the name to Foxcatcher Farm, an homage to the horse stables. He built a state-of-the-art wrestling facility used to train the American Olympic wrestling team. Du Pont had little wrestling experience, but he was the head coach of Team Foxcatcher. His assistant coach, Dave Schultz, was an Olympic gold medalist. Things took an odd turn on January 26, 1996, when John du Pont shot and killed Schultz in his driveway. Schultz lived in a guest house on the property and expressed an interest in leaving the team for a coaching position at Stanford University. The jury found du Pont guilty of third-degree murder and ruled that he was mentally ill but not insane. After du Pont’s arrest, the estate fell
into disrepair. Once manicured lawns and perfectly trimmed shrubs became overgrown with vines and weeds. The Episcopal
The Episcopal Academy purchased part of the estate in 2008 Academy purchased part of the estate in 2008, and after John du Pont died in prison in 2010, the Toll Brothers bought the rest of the estate. In 2013, the company demolished the mansion and all the outbuildings, except the barn used for horse breeding. Toll Brothers is currently building over fourhundred houses on the property as part of a development project.
I assumed that due to the number of workers, I would receive my food quickly, but I was incorrect. I would be writing a much different review if the sandwich I ordered was amazing, but it wasn’t. The fresh, made-in-shop bagel was the best part by far. The sausage patty was too small for the bagel, and the eggs weren’t cooked enough. It wasn’t bad, just not great when you consider the many other better options in the area: Ardmore Station Café and even Dunkin Donuts, for example. Another mild gripe I have with this store is that they sell La Colombe draft lattes. That is not a bad thing by itself. The bad thing is that they are somehow more expensive at Spread than they are at La Colombe (again, only 30 seconds away). I guess you pay extra for the convenience of not having to go to a different store, but for me it was off-putting. I could easily go to La Colombe and get my drink while waiting the ten minutes for my sandwich. Overall, Spread Bagelry is not bad. Because of the convenience, I will most likely go there again. I would just recommend that you wait a few weeks while they sort things out. (clockwise from left) EA’s cross-country course, Aronimink Golf Club, and the former du Pont estate
GOOGLE MAPS
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the index · sports
November 2019
EA DAY SPORTS PHOTO CREDITS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) COURTESY OF KOBY DEGENHARDT ’20, ETHAN POLLACK ’21, OBAIDA ELAMIN ’20, MR. JIM ROESE, SEBASTIAN BILASH ’20, ETHAN POLLACK ’21, SEBASTIAN BILASH ’20
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the index · sports
November 2019
Gridiron Fords close in on Inter-Ac Championship Chris Tsetsekos ’20
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t was a brisk Saturday night at Malvern Prep’s Quigley Field. The student fan section, sporting their spooky Halloween costumes, was in full force ready to cheer on their classmates. They didn’t have to wait long to start cheering, though. The first half saw a 23yard field goal by Sixth Former Chris Clark, a safety, a 75-yard touchdown catch and run by Sixth Former Daiyaan Hawkins, and an interception which resulted in a touchdown. As the Fords’ lead grew to twenty points, the support also grew. Fans of all ages cheered the football team on as it became more evident that a win would ensue. As soon as the Friars began to score, Clark put an end to the Friar Nation’s optimism. Clark, who will play baseball at Harvard next year, nailed a 50-yard field goal that would boost the morale needed to finish the game.
Keep in mind that Cody Parkey missed a 46yard field goal.
From multiple workouts a day in the hot summer combined with studying film and a talented Inter-Ac league, the Fords have shown their grit when needed. On the mental aspect of kicking, Clark said, “Before a kick I try to not make the moment too big and go through my steps slowly.” Clark emphasized the fact that he doesn’t need to overcomplicate his job. “I just have to kick the ball,” he said. The win over Malvern Prep improves the Fords’ record to 3–1 in the Inter-Ac and 6–3
overall. The Fords will play Episcopal Academy on EA Day to decide an outright Inter-Ac Championship. The Fords have come a long way this season to achieve this opportunity. From multiple workouts a day in the hot summer combined with studying film and a talented Inter-Ac league, the Fords have shown their grit when needed. The team started practicing the week of final exams last school year: to say it’s been a journey would be an understatement. Sixth Former Ben Murphy said, “When it comes down to EA Day, records get thrown out the window, and it’s about who wants it more and who is willing to sacrifice the most to come away with a win.” “This year is a little more special, though, because whoever wins the game will be the outright Inter-Ac champion,” Murphy said.
Hamzah Twyman ’21 takes the ball upfield late in a 39–10 win over Penn Charter, October 26, 2019
Murphy emphasized the fact that the energy level has been fantastic this season regarding both the football team and the student body. One day, the student body will look back at the zeitgeist of their Haverford careers and remember the fun atmosphere the football team created. Whether it be tailgates, lunch table conversations, or fan gatherings, the football team has brought together the school community in a way unparalleled in recent years. The student body fiercely supports the football team and will do its best to cheer them on for EA Day. “We’ve all been talking about this day since freshman year,” Murphy said, “so we’re just excited to play in front of the incredible atmosphere that EA Day always is.”
MR. THOMAS STAMBAUGH
A kicker’s game for Chris “The Leg” Clark Matt Mignucci ’20
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he Fords are hot…and at the right time. After demolishing Penn Charter at home and then Malvern away, they have all the momentum heading into the most important game of the year: EA. This year’s team has been through their ups and downs, but overall has been one of the best football teams we have seen in years. With their talented players and unmatched chemistry, the Fords are in the perfect situation to win out and take home the sweater together with the Inter-Ac championship.
While he might not be on the field that much, one of the crucial parts of a football team is a reliable kicker.
TYLER SEWARD ’21
While he might not be on the field that much, one of the crucial parts of a football team is a reliable kicker. Sixth Former Chris Clark has been a consistent kicker for the Fords this season, greatly contributing to their success. Clark has been honored to be a part of such a great team and believes that football has had a major impact on his high school experience. “The amount of time and effort given from all the players and coaches is unlike any other sport I’ve been a part of,” Clark said.
“Unfortunately and fortunately, it’s taught me a lot about failure and how important it is to respond and work on building something as a team. I’ve been lucky to be a part of a great group of guys.” Clark has been a part of the football team for all four years, but he thinks this year is special. Clark said, “It just seems like we are all really close and clicking on a physical and personal level. There are a lot of high-energy guys on the team that keep the game fun, plus a lot of dedication and work all around.” While they have had a great season so far, Clark and the team realize that the season is far from over. Clark believes the team is mentally focused and ready for the final game. “These last two games are going to be really exciting. We have a great opportunity to take out two high-quality opponents and for the first time in my career, compete for an Inter-Ac championship.” On Saturday November 2, Clark hit a clutch 50-yard field goal, helping the Fords defeat the Friars 30–20. As the Fords prepare for their last game of the season — for Sixth Formers, their last school football game — the stakes are high, but the excitement is higher.
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the index · sports
November 2019
Cross-country Fords prepared to climb EA’s hills Matthew Schwartz ’21
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icking off the EA Day festivities last year, the cross-country team hopes to repeat its success this upcoming Saturday on the hills of Episcopal Academy. “We’ve changed the training this year. We’ve ramped up the intensity a little bit during the season which has been bearing fruit,” varsity coach Mr. Timothy Lengel said. In order to prepare for EA’s cross-country course, which is considerably more hilly than the home Haverford College course, captains Vincent Scauzzo ’20 and Lleyton Winslow ’20 have led captains’ practices on Sundays at EA itself, allowing the runners to practice on the actual course and familiarize themselves with the route.
“We’ve also resorted to training off-campus for hills, doing some stuff around Rose Lane and in that neighborhood to get some real hills in.” “We’ve also resorted to training off-campus for hills, doing some stuff around Rose Lane and in that neighborhood to get some real hills in,” Scauzzo said. Making sure that they are ready for the topography of EA has not been the only obstacle facing Haverford’s cross-country team this season. Earlier in the year, Sixth Form varsity runner Jack Ballenger went down with a stress fracture and is unable to complete for the remainder of the season. His injury has not deterred the spirits of the team, who have rallied together.
“That was a big loss, you know, losing your third or fourth guy on the team,” Scauzzo said, “but we just keep pushing. Because if we push, we’ll still have a chance, and if we have a chance, then we could win.” Episcopal’s team is fast this year because of lots of summer practice as well as adding one or two new runners to the mix. But Coaches Lengel and Mr. Brian Long feel good about how Haverford stacks up against their opponent.
“A.J. [Sanford ’21], we know is close to their number-one guy, so A.J.’s job is to try and beat their number-one guy”
SEBASTIAN BILASH ’20
Vince Scauzzo ’20 in the final push in a 23–34 loss at EA, September 17, 2019
“A.J. [Sanford ’21], we know is close to EA’s number one runner, so A.J.’s job is to try and beat their number one guy,” Coach Lengel said. “We know that Lleyton is near a particular runner, so he has to know who that guy is and make sure he leads that guy. And there are other runners who are better at finishing or starting so we work with them to tailor their races.” “I think all the grinding is starting to pay off. We’ve got some serious speed from our guys who started out not super fast. Our top guys are only getting faster,” Scauzzo said. “I think it’s really shown a lot of growth, and I think we’re going to show a lot of speed on Saturday.” Unlike last year, the student body will not be able to support their fellow classmates during the school day on Friday. Instead, the race will occur at EA Saturday at 11:00 a.m. MATTHEW SCHWARTZ ’21
Winslow grows into a lead runner Jeffrey Yang ’20
U
pfront in the hive of cross country runners, a cross-country fan would not have to look too far to find amongst the lead pack Sixth Former Lleyton Winslow. As the 2019 co-captain, Winslow has led the group through hundreds of training miles under the scorching end-of-summer sun and amid the wet and chilly mid-autumn days.
Winslow started his running career as a Second Former. He joined winter track when he was in the Third Form and first ran spring track during the last few months of his Fourth Form year.
MR. JIM ROESE
Lleyton Winslow ’20 nears the finish in a 15–44 win over SCHA, October 1, 2019
Winslow started his running career as a Second Former. He joined winter track when he was in the Third Form and first ran spring track during the last few months of his Fourth Form year. Going into the cross-country season this year, Winslow was eager to run well. He has only been improving since the end of last year’s cross-country season and had made significant strides during his Fifth Form year. This season, however, has proven difficult for Winslow. “Although personally, I’m not too happy with my performance,” Winslow said, “I’m content just seeing everyone get better and the team performing well.” Most students think that running is not the most enjoyable sport. As a matter of fact,
many coaches may even use running as a punishment. Winslow cannot deny his love-hate relationship for the sport but asserted that the unique team atmosphere found in cross country keeps him motivated to run. In previous years Winslow fostered friendships with the team’s current members and the upperclassmen who have since graduated. He recalls the strong leadership of past captains and aspires to encourage the underclassmen just as they did. “I remember, in my underclassmen years, looking up to the captains and thinking, ‘I can’t wait till I’m them.’ Now, as a captain, it motivates me to think that the younger guys can look up to me,” Winslow said. “The upperclassmen in the past molded me into the runner I am now.” With leadership standards set by previous captains, Winslow was apprehensive about taking the role himself going into this season.
“When Coach asked me to be captain, I was really worried that I wouldn’t do well in the role.” “I was really worried because sophomore year and freshman year, I was really quiet and wasn’t very outgoing or a natural-born leader. Slowly, I’ve started to begin public speaking and try to be someone people like listening to,” Winslow said. “So when Coach asked me to be captain, I was really worcon’t on p. 16
the index · sports
Page 11
November 2019
Water Polo continues domination, eyeing final game Ryan LaRocca ’20
N
ot a single player on Fords water polo has ever lost a varsity game against the Episcopal Academy, making them the only fall sports team on campus to hold this piece of prestige. Over the past four years, Fords water polo has tallied seven victories against the Churchmen. And with a win on EA Day, Fords water polo, currently 7–0 in the InterAc, can finish with an undefeated league record for the second year in a row. Water polo has been indelibly dominant this season. In their fifteenth game of the season, the team ceded its first and only loss to The Brunswick School, a Connecticut powerhouse.
“With the success we had last year, our team was not content with anything but winning. Knowing how well this team could perform made all of us work harder to improve from the previous season.”
MR. JIM ROESE
Ryan LaRocca ’20 airs it out in a 15–6 win over Penn Charter on September 24
Returning many key players from last year’s Inter-Ac championship roster, Fords water polo experienced an explosive start to their season. Setting a high bar in their historic 2018 season with a 26–4 record, the Fords fulfilled their high expectations in the season’s early games. Sixth Form captain David Gobora has led
the Fords in steals for the past two seasons. “With the success we had last year, our team was not content with anything but winning,” Gobora said. “Knowing how well this team could perform made all of us work harder to improve from the previous season.” This initial success continued as the season progressed, which allowed the Fords to improve from the previous season. The Fords have already beaten the PIAA State Champion team North Penn High School and the PIAA State Runner-Up Cumberland Valley High School. And with only EA Day remaining, the team has already solidified the best record in the program’s history. “The team recognized our opportunity to become the best team in the school’s history. We weren’t going to stop winning until we knew we were,” Gobora said. “We’ve been able to maintain dominance due to a mix of talented players, relentless training, positive mentality, and unyielding trust in the team and our coaches,” Sixth Form captain Koby Degenhardt said. Despite already achieving so much, Fords Water Polo is still not content. Until the final whistle blows in Newtown Square, the team remains focused on the task at hand. With the sweater and their undefeated Inter-Ac season at stake, the Fords do not plan on taking their matchup lightly. “Right now, our sole focus is on beating EA on Saturday. Even though we’re 7-0 and we already beat EA once, anything can happen in just four seven-minute periods,” Degenhardt said. “Emotions tend to flare with the sweater at stake, so we need to just stay calm and keep doing what we’ve done all season.”
“If we stay calm and trust in one another, we can definitely finish the season with a victory.” “If we stay calm and trust in one another,” Gobora said, “we can definitely finish the season with a victory.”
SEN ZELOV ’21
Koby Degenhardt, anchor in goal Mitav Nayak ’22
A
n eager but self-proclaimed “slow swimmer” took his place in the net for the first time two years ago. With only a year of water polo experience, his lack of success in the field directed him to the new position in goal. But the athlete—ardent and highly motivated—quickly adjusted to his role, wasting no time developing into a dominant force. This weekend, Sixth Form captain Koby Degenhardt will defend the net against Episcopal Academy, hoping to capture a victory and culminate a historic season. Degenhardt, who started playing water polo as a Third Former, has demonstrated an aptitude for the sport, transferring to goalie in his second season and eventually working his way toward a starting role.
“My transition to goalie was pretty smooth. I never really liked the swimming aspect—that was the worst part of the sport for me.” “My transition to goalie was pretty smooth,” Degenhardt said. “I never really
liked the swimming aspect—that was the worst part of the sport for me. Playing goalie was much more fun, and I was better at it.” While some might collapse under the mental pressures of the goal, Degenhardt sees his position differently.
“All I have to do is put myself in between the ball and the net. Everyone else has to coordinate, pass, swim, and run offensive drives” “All I have to do is put myself in between the ball and the net. Everyone else has to coordinate, pass, swim, and run offensive drives,” Degenhardt said. “I think I have the easiest job.” Degenhardt’s calm mindset has allowed him to embrace his position this season, following in the footsteps of former goalies Jason Chen ’19 and Nicholas Biddle ’19. Degenhardt believes the former team leaders strongly influenced his water polo journey. Degenhardt said, “Biddle was a really con’t on p. 16
Koby Degenhardt ’20 in command of the goal
DR. JIM GODORECCI
Page 12
the index · sports
November 2019
Fords Footy keeps the ball rolling Vincent Scauzzo ’20
A
fter a season of highs and lows, Fords soccer is ready to attack EA. It’s taken a while, but the Fords have overcome many challenges since the beginning of the season, and have become a more mature group of athletes. There were a lot of strong graduates last year, leaving voids to be filled by up-andcomers. The young athletes, tugging at the leash, did not come into the season ready to work as a team, or at least work with the same mindset as the upperclassmen. Sixth Former M.J. Atkins said that the team lacked identity. It took a while to establish communication and skills within the team. But throughout the season, the younger players have adapted, and the team is now bonding more than ever, which produces wins.
But throughout the season, the younger players have adapted, and the team is now bonding more than ever, which produces wins. The most glaring fact going into the date with destiny is that the Fords have already lost to EA. But, as anyone on the team or who watched that game will tell you, that final 0-1 score is misleading. Yes, the lone goal scored in the last minute of the game was a fluke, but on the whole, the Fords played a much stronger game than the Churchmen. EA only had three shots on goal the entire game. The Fords had more than fourteen, one of which was a penalty kick from Sixth Form Goalie Will Boyes, which just missed, hitting the crossbar. The team was devastated after that loss, but since the Fords know they have the skill, they expect a victory on EA Day.
Part of that victory will come from taking advantage of EA’s large field. Whereas Haverford has one of the narrowest fields in the Inter-Ac, EA has one of the widest. That extra space allows for more passing and should make it harder for EA to defend, in addition to getting their one hopeful shot on goal. For the strategic pass plays to work, the team must develop a new plan of attack. That means getting creative, playing matchups, and playing out of position, according to Coach Dan Keefe. This is directed towards the offensive end, though, as the team’s defense is one of the strongest in the Inter Ac. The Fords only allowed six goals in ten Inter-Ac games. Expect loads of scoring opportunities. There are some worries, though. The Fords have yet to come from behind and win this season, so a win in this game will most likely have to come from a goal in the first half. Some of the young guys on the team have never played in a game quite like this. They will need to build their confidence and believe that they can win. Andrew Johnson and Papi Harris are two young players getting a lot of playing time this season. Asher Laackman has been productive too. All these guys will have to use what they’ve been taught by the upperclassmen so far this year. If they want to win, they need to work together and have faith in each other. Because practices have become more intense and meaningful, beyond just leisurely scrimmages, the team should be more competitive on the field. Coach Keefe predicts that Sixth Former Luke Macaione will score the winning goal or have the assist. Whatever the case may be, expect nothing but the most effort and heart from the Fords on Saturday.
BO BRADY ’20
OBAIDA ELAMIN ’20
Papi Harris ’23 in pursuit of the ball against SCHA, in a 0–1 loss on October 25, 2019
Obaida Elamin ’20
W
earing number 42, Sixth Former Carson De Marco has grown into a crucial part of the soccer team’s defense. De Marco plays outside back, preventing crosses into the box as well as any quick counter-attacks. He also communicates with the rest of the defensive line, keeping them on task and in the game. Sixth Form defender M.J. Atkins said,
“As a player, he’s probably the most athletic player on the entire team.” The coaches often assign De Marco with keeping quick outside wings under check. “Mr. Keefe, Mr. Poolman, and Mr. Ator have tasked the outside backs to contribute offensively since the beginning of the season, such as making overlapping runs with the midfielders and serving crosses into the box
for potential scoring opportunities,” De Marco said. De Marco poses a threat to the opposing team by occupying roles as a defender and possible playmaker. In a recent game against Penn Charter, De Marco set up a crucial goal for the team. “I made good connections with midfielders Luke Macaione and Papi Harris, which led
Carson DeMarco hits season’s end in stride
Carson De Marco ’20 strides upfield in the October 15 meeting with EA
DANIEL CHOW ’20
to me crossing a ball into the box where M.J. Atkins beautifully headed it in,” De Marco said. Both Atkins and classmate Brennan McBride describe Carson as a “grinder.” McBride said, “He is a leader showing by example and keeping his head down.” “He’s really dedicated to the team,” assistant coach Mr. Andrew Poolman said. “His dedication is infectious.” De Marco brings the water down to the field nearly every day, on his own accord. He has brought the water so often that the coaches made a rule to make other players do it.
Mr. Poolman, McBride, and Atkins describes De Marco as the team’s quiet leader. Mr. Poolman, McBride, and Atkins describes De Marco as the team’s quiet leader. “He’s the first person to pick everyone’s head up and say ‘Next play,’” Atkins said. After practices, the team often shares its “gratitudes.” Fifth Form team member Curtis Weh shared that he was grateful for a time that Carson had helped him study for a major assignment in Physiology. Over late-night texts, De Marco made sure Weh knew and understood all of the concepts on the assignment. McBride said that De Marco was up for an hour and a half helping Weh. De Marco is also one of the members of the Signet Society, the twelve Sixth Formers who represent the school and student body.
the index · sports
Page 13
November 2019
Golf claims another Inter-Ac under new coach Ryan LaRocca ’20
2
019 was a tale of two seasons for the Inter-Ac champion Fords Golf Team. The Fords started the season gunning, posting commanding victories in the first two Inter-Ac golf tournaments. It appeared that the Fords had already solidified their Inter-Ac crown. Fifth Former Tyler Zimmer noted the team’s impressive start.
But following this strong start, the Fords struggled in the middle stages of the season. “We came off of the summer season hot, winning our first two tournaments. The start to the season was a showcase of how talented
our team is and what we can achieve when we play at our best,” Zimmer said. But following this strong start, the Fords struggled in the middle stages of the season. “We weren’t successful the entire year,” Zimmer said. “That period of initial success was followed by a three-match stretch where we didn’t win any of the tournaments.” As a result, other teams in the InterAc—specifically Malvern and EA—gained ground on the Fords. And with only one tournament remaining, the Inter-Ac title was open to all three teams and would be determined by who performed the best in the final competition. But the Fords bounced back. In the final tournament of the season, the Fords remained poised, propelling them to victory. “We knew the Inter-Ac depended on
how we performed in the last match of the season. After five tournaments, we were all square with EA and Malvern, meaning the last tournament was our Inter-Ac championship,” Zimmer said. “Even though we weren’t successful all year, I would definitely say we were successful when it mattered.”
The championship came under new Head Coach Cole Berman ’14, who took over for Gui Costin. The championship came under new Head Coach Cole Berman ’14, who took over for Gui Costin, who stepped down from the position after last season after his son Mac graduated. Berman served as an assistant coach
last year and played an integral role in the team’s turnaround in their final tournament of the season. “Coach Berman was an amazing mentor. To make him proud, we all put the work in on our own time, with golf being an individual sport. Coach was there for us, picking us up, and that is what counted,” Zimmer said. And with Berman at the helm, the Fords look towards their head-to-head EA Day matchup. As they did in the Inter-Ac, the Fords aspire to come out on top. “Our team’s goal for EA Day is obviously to win,” Zimmer said. “And in the process of doing so, we don’t want to even let the match be close. We have a lot of talent on our team, and if we play, there is no doubt in my mind that we can achieve this goal.”
ADAM GREENFIELD ’21
Maddaloni switches clubs to take on EA Jake LaRocca ’22
A
s the end of the fall sports season approaches, Fifth Form golfer Jake Maddaloni prepares for his big match on November 9. The team needs an exceptional performance out of Maddaloni to ensure a win against EA. Despite the pressure, Maddaloni is calm and ready for the big day.
“I’m not nervous. It’s something I’ve been looking forward to for a while now. I’m excited. It should be a close match.”
Jake Maddaloni ’21, second from right, on EA Day last year
MR. JIM ROESE
“I’m not nervous,” Maddaloni said. “It’s something I’ve been looking forward to for a while now. I’m excited. It should be a close match.” Maddaloni is calm because he has been around the game for such a long time. His experience in big matches gives him an advantage over other golfers. “I have been playing golf since I was six years old. My dad showed me the game when I was young. When I turned 12, I started to play in some local tournaments in the Philly area,” Maddaloni said. Looking back on his season, Maddaloni was satisfied with a couple of matches but displeased with others. He ultimately regrets
the choice to switch his clubs midseason. He believes that is the reason he played poorly in the last couple of matches. Maddaloni said, “I played well in the first two matches. After the first two matches, I switched up my clubs, and I did not do well in my last four matches. Luckily, I switched back for states and finished strong.” Maddaloni placed second at states, following behind a member of The Hill School’s team. As EA Day approaches, Maddaloni is preparing for one vital part of the game. Due to low temperature, the greens will be different than what he is used to.
“I’m working on the short game because the cold will cause the greens to be firmer.” “I’m working on the short game because the cold will cause the greens to be firmer,” Maddaloni said. The EA Day Match will be held at Aronimink Golf and Country Club in Newtown Square. Maddaloni is familiar with the course. “I play golf there over the summer,” Maddaloni said. “AGC has helped make me a better golfer.”
the index · arts
Page 14
November 2019
arts EA Week banners remain respectfully controversial Ryan Rodack ’22
I
n the spirit of EA Week competitions, upper school artists compete in banner making. Members from each form design banners with jokes and clever depictions to bash EA and support the Fords. The banners are judged prior to EA Day,
and the form with most clever and unique banner takes home the victory. This tradition began over a decade ago, implemented by Art Department Chair Mr. Christopher Fox. “When I first came here I don’t remember
if there were any spirit week events,” Mr. Fox said. “We developed activities [such as banner painting] to try to build a sense of community, keep it positive, and support the athletes. [The banners] started off with cheap brown paper. It looked horrible.”
The tradition began with students making a banner as an advisory, but it has since developed into one in which students may design banners at their own will. Students spend many hours out of their days to design the best banner possible. Fourth Former Luke Parsells, a first-time banner designer said, “I expect to prepare the banner with a different and original style.” “I’m very excited to have this opportunity to work with the banner program this year,” Parsells said. “I hope we can make an interesting banner that can show our support for our teams.” Many note the fine line between respectful banter and too much. Last year, an incident unsettled some members of the Episcopal community when one of the banners appeared to show The Episcopal Academy chapel in flames. Although many may have misinterpreted the painting, Mr. Fox made the intentions of the artist clear.
“The Chapel in that painting was not burning. Yes, there was an explosion, but the Chapel itself was intact”
The Class of 2022’s EA Day banner last year
MR. THOMAS STAMBAUGH
“The Chapel in that painting was not burning. Yes, there was an explosion, but the Chapel itself was intact,” Mr. Fox said. To allow the competition to continue in the years to come, Mr. Fox has set guidelines that will ensure no more misconceptions in the future. “We try to poke fun at ourselves,” Mr. Fox said. “We don’t depict specific EA people.”
Star Wars trailer reveals dark side’s return Yan Graf ’20
F
orty-two years since the release of the original Star Wars movie, fans are finally getting a conclusion to the series. Two weeks ago, Disney released the trailer for the ninth film, titled The Rise of Skywalker. This comes after Disney released the teaser in April, giving plenty of hints as to the plot of the upcoming movie. Perhaps the most important detail revealed in the trailer is the return of Emperor Palpatine, who has been missing from the series since his death in Return of the Jedi. As the most powerful user of the force in the galaxy, his reappearance gives the story a clear antagonist, replacing Supreme Leader Snoke, who was killed in the previous film The Last Jedi.
With Palpatine’s return comes an ominous easter egg in the teaser; we catch a brief glimpse of a massive fleet of star destroyers. With Palpatine’s return comes an ominous easter egg in the teaser; we catch a brief glimpse of a massive fleet of star destroyers. The destroyers are all parked in neat rows, in an interstellar storm, with no lights on. More importantly, the star destroyers pictured are from the Old Empire, not the First Order. This so-called “ghost fleet” leaves hints that con’t on p. 15
Yan Graf ’20 inspecting the “Ghost Fleet” depicted in the Rise of Skywalker trailer teaser
AGUSTIN ALIAGA ’21
the index · arts
Page 15
November 2019
Jojo Rabbit challenges assumptions about WWII Matthew Schwartz ’21
F
ollowing the ever-growing trend of Marvel movie directors using their MCU “cred” to produce unique films, Jojo Rabbit, directed by Thor: Ragnorak’s Taika Waititi, is based on Christine Leunens’s book Caging Skies, which was suggested to Waititi by his mother nearly a decade ago. The story, altered from the book to appeal to wider audiences, centers around the story of Jojo, a young boy in the Berlin’s Hitler Youth during World War II. With Jojo’s imaginary friend Adolf Hitler, played by Waititi, Jojo Rabbit is a jarring film that provides the levity and self-awareness necessary to delve into such a disturbing topic. In the beginning, the film relies heavily upon comedy to illustrate the absurdity of the Nazis’ actions, such as the excitement surrounding a book burning. Though humorous, these bits become stale rather quickly, but provide some insight into Jojo’s life.
“While controversial, it provides a much-needed escape from reality by prompting a less serious outlook on the world.”
The movie hits its stride with the introduction of Elsa, a young Jewish girl that Jojo’s mother has been hiding in their attic. It shifts from a lower-stakes film to a story of innocence that results from ignorance of the surrounding world. With tense moments that the film lets sit and bask in the sun, the film does not shy away from its subject and provides serious social comedy about current events in addition to a strong anti-war message. Waititi mixes comedy, emotion, and drama, shaping the world as he sees fit. In a film where the protagonist is a Nazi, someone society has been taught to hate, it presents a feeling of understanding and even sympathy with those who are different than us.
“Waititi mixes comedy, emotion, and drama, shaping the world as he sees fit.” Winning the Audience Award at the Toronto Film Festival, Jojo Rabbit is a hit with viewers. While controversial, it provides a muchneeded escape from reality by prompting a less serious outlook on the world.
GAGE SKIDMORE VIA WIKIMEDIA
In El Camino, Aaron Paul reprises his role as Jesse Pinkman from Breaking Bad
El Camino breaks Breaking Bad’s high bar Joey Kauffman ’23
E
l Camino, the new Breaking Bad movie starring Aaron Paul, provides fans with long-desired answers regarding Jesse Pinkman’s fate. In Breaking Bad, Jesse decided to team up with DEA agent Hank Schrader to take down his drug trafficking mentor Walter White, who had befriended a white supremacist gang. In a failed attempt to capture Walt, Jesse is taken hostage by the gang and forced to cook meth. After an escape attempt, Jesse witnesses gang member Todd shoot Jesse’s girlfriend Andrea, and threatens to shoot her son Brock if he tries to escape again. This trauma emotionally wrecks Jesse and forces him to behave himself to keep Brock alive. In the series finale, Walt storms the white supremacist compound six months into Jesse’s captivity and uses a remote-controlled machine gun to kill the gang, while shielding Jesse from bullets with his body. Afterwards, Jesse sees that Todd is still alive, and strangles him with his handcuffs. He then takes the keys to Todd’s 1978 Chevrolet El Camino and flees, laughing hysterically and crying as he drives to his freedom.
“The film does not feel stale or formulaic—it grabs hold of your attention with its fresh directing style and outstanding acting.”
Jojo Rabbit is playing now at the Bryn Mawr Film Institute
MATTHEW SCHWARTZ ’21
El Camino picks up after this scene, following Jesse in his attempt to flee the law. The plot of the movie is fairly predictable: we watch Jesse escape his past and make a new life for himself. But the film does not feel stale or formulaic—it grabs hold of your attention with its fresh directing style and outstanding acting. Aaron Paul’s performance does not disappoint. He plays Jesse with the same complexity and versatility that he did in the show. Jesse’s pain and ambivalence about what he
has become shines through. Despite all of his wrongdoings, Jesse never becomes completely malevolent. He is morally torn apart by the evil he sees around him. Even in fits of violence or anger, Paul keeps in touch with Jesse’s character and maintains some slight tether to the possibility of good-heartedness, bringing a tenderness to Jesse and the movie. Another outstanding performance in El Camino is Jesse Plemons playing Todd. Through flashbacks to Jesse’s time as a methcooking slave, we find out more about his life in captivity and see the brutal things the gang does to him. The Todd who appears in many of these flashbacks is more manipulative in his abuse of Jesse than his peers. He seems like a decent person at first, but his actions are just as heartless and evil as the other gang members. Plemons’ portrayal of Todd is subtle, and, in the end, illuminates the remarkably evil nature of his character. Breaking Bad creator and El Camino director Vince Gilligan constructs the film with a purpose. It seems that every shot is designed to convey a certain aspect of the movie or to distill an emotion for the audience. This filmmaking craftsmanship never comes
“El Camino provides a satisfying answer to the question of what happened to Jesse, through skillful acting and directing.” across as forced, playing well within the narrative of the movie. El Camino provides a satisfying answer to the question of what happened to Jesse, through skillful acting and directing. It lives up to the greatness of the show and proves successful in transferring the brilliance of Breaking Bad to the big screen.
Star Wars, continued from the previous page Palpatine may have stockpiled old imperial equipment for his eventual return. This shot is my favorite of the trailer, as it shows a superweapon that isn’t a planetary laser cannon. The Force Awakens was starkly criticized for recycling the idea of a planetary death station from the original trilogy, and this shot shows that director J. J. Abrams has listened to the fan community. I look forward to seeing how the fleet is used in the movie. Another important point alluded in the trailer is the relationship between Kylo Ren
and Rey. Many have speculated, based on their cooperation in The Last Jedi, that the two may become involved in a relationship or remain allies. However, the hopes of “Reylo” fans have been dashed by leaks and trailer footage. While some of the footage shows the two working together, they are also engaged in heated lightsaber combat, and nothing in the trailer alludes to a possible relationship. Overall, the trailer seems promising. The plot element of the “ghost fleet” and Palpatine’s return reintroduces one of the series’ most beloved characters and shows
that Abrams is over lazily introducing a bigger Death Star to present an antagonistic element into the story. The most important key to success in The Rise of Skywalker will be to create an original plot and to stay consistent with the defining features and plot elements of previous movies. This has been without a doubt the main letdowns of the past movies. While commercial successes, the fan community response has been cold. It is never a good sign when the director
has been changed after each new movie. Fans, including myself, were especially disappointed with The Last Jedi, which saw many plot points that seemed completely out of keeping with the logic and in-universe mechanics. This outrage led to director Rian Johnson being axed from The Rise of Skywalker, and Abrams taking the reigns once again. While Abrams did not impress many fans with The Force Awakens, I remain hopeful for The Rise Of Skywalker, with many of the teased elements so far showing promise.
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November 2019
Renaissance man Drew Loughnane Ryan Rodack ’22
H
averford is full of great athletes, artists, intellectuals, and musicians. The artist of the month, Fifth Former Drew Loughnane, has immersed himself in all four of these aspects. In the theater department’s fall play The Three Musketeers, Loughnane stars as D’Artagnan, the protagonist. “While I wouldn’t consider myself a true art person, I have enjoyed being able to broaden what I do in the community from just sports and academics,” Loughnane said. “Drew is an extremely prepared and thoughtful actor,” Theater Department Chair Mr. Darren Hengst said. “He has wonderful instincts about human behavior that translates perfectly to the stage. He sets the bar high with his work ethic.” “Besides enjoying the feeling of performing on stage, I like the group of guys and girls that do the shows with me. Many of them are my friends going back to middle and lower school,” Loughnane said. “Putting together a show with them is a great experience for me.”
SEBASTIAN BILASH ’20
“I am looking forward to being able to share with my classmates and friends the hard work that the cast members and I have put in for the last few months.” “I am looking forward to being able to share with my classmates and friends the hard work that the cast members and I have put in for the last few months,” Loughnane said. Loughnane looks to use his senior position to benefit others. “Being that upperclassman that underclassmen can look up to is inspiring for me,” Loughnane said. “I remember being in their shoes not long ago, so my experience in being involved in the arts has really come full circle.” “I am excited to see what his D’Artagnan will grow into in the coming weeks,” Mr. Hengst said. The Three Musketeers will take place between November 15–17 in Centennial Hall.
Drew Loughnane ’21 (left) duels Isaiah Shuchman ’23 in rehearsal on November 3, 2019
SEBASTIAN BILASH ’20
Degenhardt, continued from page 11 great mentor for me. When he was a senior, he helped me learn about the important aspects of being a goalie. He was a good teacher and always really supportive.”
“We have a ‘work hard, play hard’ kind of mindset.” The tradition of a supportive team culture has prevailed this season. Although the team has enjoyed a number of lopsided victories, the locker-room atmosphere has remained balanced.
“We have a ‘work hard, play hard’ kind of mindset. We grind during practices and drills, but we also know how to have fun and joke around with each other,” Degenhardt said. “It’s a super supportive environment.” This team culture and unparalleled talent pool has propelled the team to an incredible record with only one loss. Degenhardt explained that one of the team’s most difficult challenges came against a strong Cumberland Valley offense. “We played them in the Beast of the East tournament. Our best player got ejected at
the beginning of the second half and we were down 9-5 in the fourth quarter, but we managed to come back and win in double overtime,” Degenhardt said. This weekend, Degenhardt hopes the Fords can maintain their composure and rely on the same qualities that have allotted for their dominance throughout the season. “We have super talented players and a great coaching staff,” Degenhardt said, “but no one is trying to be the star of the show. Everyone can handle the ball and play. We have trust for one another.”
Winslow, continued from page 10 ried that I wouldn’t do well in the role. But I think I’m doing a good job: the younger guys have come to ask me questions and look up to me for guidance.” As captain and one of the school’s leading runners, Winslow feels he has a responsibility to race well and fulfill his position on the team. He knows his performance is an aspect of the team’s performance, and it motivates him to run fast. “I want to make everyone proud. When I’m running and I see Vincent [Scauzzo] or A.J. [Sanford] ahead of me, it makes me want to run up to them because I know that
if I don’t run well, I’m letting them down, I’m letting the team and the coaches down,” Winslow said. Winslow calls his mother his biggest supporter. He appreciates the sacrifices she has made for him to attend school and run at Haverford. In response, he is determined to train hard and run fast in meets to make her proud. “She’s there every step of the way; she can’t always physically make it to the meets, but she’s there in spirit. She’s always texting me before meets, ‘good luck,’ and I don’t know if I’d be as fast or like running as much if it
weren’t for her,” Winslow said. On EA Day, Winslow looks forward to seeing the team give its best effort on the course. He mentioned the difficulty of the course but is confident that the team is ready to race hard. “Now that I’m a captain and a senior, I can’t wait to see classmates that I’ve been with since lower school compete as well,” Winslow said. “I remember in third grade people like Will Boyes playing soccer and wondering where he was going to go with it, and now he’s going to be playing in the varsity soccer game that we used to watch
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together back in kindergarten.” Winslow expresses gratitude to the people who have supported him along his journey. “I want to give a thank you to my coaches, Mr. Long and Mr. Lengel. Since freshman year, they’ve been great mentors for me,” Winslow said. “Also, shoutout to my family—my mom, and dad, and sisters—and to my teammates, they’re my best friends. I’m going to miss them next year, I’m going to miss Haverford.”