Lancers
STAFF LIST
JOEY GOODNIGHT
Editor-in-Chief
GEMMA SPRAGGINS
Editor-in-Chief
JULIA PINEDA-DOMINGUEZ
Managing Editor
KAILAH SPENCER
Managing Editor
MADELYN FRIEDMAN
Business Manager
LAILAH SERNA
News Editor
ABIGAIL KERNS
Opinions Editor
SOPHIA MUNHALL
Sports Editor
Staff
DORATHEA BURTON
MIKEL GONZALEZ
KELLY HOOLBOOM
JORDYN LIEBOWITZ
JOHNNY PHAN
SOPHIE PONDERS
APRIL RAMOS
AVA ROCHA
LILAH SWAVING
WILLOW VERCHER
TYLER WINZENBURG
Adviser JOANNA OTEY
The Lancer is the official school publication of Thousand Oaks High School, created and produced by students in Journalism 1, Advanced Journalism and Advanced Journalism Honors courses.
The Lancer reserves the right to refuse advertising deemed inappropriate for high school publication. Guest editorials and “Letters to the Editor” are welcome, but must be signed and are subject to editing for length, libel, obscenity, and grammar. They can be sent to thelancer.tohs@gmail.com.
The Lancer is a member of the National Scholastic Press Association (NPSA) and NPSA AllAmerican Hall of Fame. The Oct. 31, 2024 issue of The Lancer took 9th place in NPSA’s Best of Show contest in Philadelphia, PA.
Email: thelancer.tohs@gmail.com instagram: @thelancermedia www.tohsthelancer.org
New names, changes at top
As we welcome Lancers new and old back into classrooms, we also greet two new administrators on campus.
Towards the end of the 24-25 school year it was revealed that Jeniffer Modolo, Assistant Principal of Activities, would be transferred to Westlake High School.
“Leadership of the Conejo Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) made the decision to reallocate school administrators and to shift from a team of five assistant principals to a team of four,” Principal Eric Bergmann said. “As a result, we had to sort of redesign the duties that were assigned.”
The motive for a district move is often due to the resources available to each school.
“When I first started at this school, in the 17-18 school year, we had 2,200 students on this campus. We’re now down to 1,700…so we need to have five assistant principals when we’ve got 500 fewer students,” Bergmann said. “It would not be accurate to say that money wasn’t a factor; paying people is an expensive process.”
As a result, the responsibilities of new and returning administrators have expanded, creating new titles.
Serving Lancers as the Assistant Principal of Student Support and Special Education Service is Amanda Glover.
Glover has been part of CVUSD for five years, starting as a substitute teacher.
Glover established her career as a special education teacher, assistant principal, and a special education coordinator.
In addition to this, Glover is currently working with Redwood Middle School and district level projects.
Glover has worked in special education for over 20 years, bringing her expertise to help bring ideas and expand the acceptance found within our school.
“I would like to achieve more acceptance, more inclusion, for all of
our students…[for students to have] an opportunity to feel apart and have a sense of belonging on our campus,” Glover said. “I believe all students can learn and grow and are capable of reaching their goals and dreams.”
Glover hopes that during her time here she can increase the involvement in TOHS Unified Sports, expand available electives for everyone, including students part of our elite program, and special needs students participating in clubs.
Along with Glover, Josh Eby joined the Lancer family as the Assistant Principal of Athletics, Facilities, and Safety.
Living in the Conejo Valley for 40 years and working 26 years in the CVUSD, Eby is returning to an administrative role after previously serving as an AP Psychology teacher at WHS.
“I had been an administrator prior to that, but I had chosen for a variety of reasons, to teach again, and spend time in the classroom…at this point, I was ready to move back into an administrative role,” Eby said.
At TOHS, Eby is now responsible for athletic schedules, safety concerns, working with our campus safety assistance, creating school safety plans, and managing safety drills. Eby hopes he
can help students feel prideful for a clean and safe campus.
“My number one goal is making connections with students,” Eby said. “I really do believe that students drive what we do, so want students to feel like they have someone they can come to and talk to with me.”
With the goal to provide students with the resources they need to be successful, the two returning administrators, Michael Godfrey and Danielle Oliveri, have new responsibilities.
Godfrey, once Assistant Principal of Attendance and Student Welfare, now has the title of Assistant Principal of Student Life, whose role is similar to the Assistant Principal of Activities, once occupied by Modolo. He will oversee activities and a portion of attendance.
Oliveri, the Assistant Principal of Instruction, has minor changes in responsibility. She is managing schedules, the school’s counselors, and discipline for part of both the freshman and junior classes.
With the students in mind, the new administration is ready to serve the Lancers and create a great environment for the 25-26 school year, one full of diversity, safety, and inclusion.
Freshmen launched into 2025
With only days left of summer vacation, TOHS freshmen visit campus to prepare themselves for the year ahead on Aug. 14, at the annual Lancer Launch event.
The year’s new students began their day in the gym, playing games similar to those played at rallies and learning about the rules of the Green Hole from current students.
There were performances by the TOHS cheerleaders, dance team, and drum line, followed by an introduction from ASB President Kinley Morehead and Principal Eric Bergmann. Current students volunteered to lead freshmen in tours around campus. TOHS
senior Kelsey Sullivan volunteered her time to show the freshmen the ins and outs of campus, hinting at all the exciting things in store for their futures.
“I think they are going to enjoy the wide variety of clubs and extracurriculars that we have,” Sullivan said. “I think there is something for everyone, whether it’s a club or a performing art.”
Located in the quad were tables with students representing just a few of the student-run clubs and organizations available to everyone on campus, such as the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Drama, Environmental Club, and the yearbook.
Many freshmen took this opportunity to socialize and learn more about what high school has to offer.
Off Campus Pass
Florida eliminates vaccine mandates for children
On Sept. 3, Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo expressed his opinion on the partnership with the Florida Department of Health in regard to the controversial vaccine mandates in the state. As a healthcare provider, Ladapo announced the change, saying that requiring anyone of any age to get a vaccine is inhumane and goes against their rights. While health officials in Florida end public school vaccination requirements for diseases like hepatitis B, chicken pox, influenza, and meningitis, public health experts are worried about the impact on children and whether other states may follow.
ASB lights up early Homecoming week
GEMMA SPRAGGINS Editor-in-Chief
In June of 2025, Thousand Oaks High School’s Associated Student Body (ASB) started planning the 2025 Homecoming events.
“This is the earliest that Homecoming has ever been,” senior Class President Tessa Whitman said. “That meant we had to put our A-game on and our teamwork had to be up by so much.”
To be prepared for the early start of the year, ASB had to cram a couple months’ of planning for the Homecoming dance into a couple weeks, due to it being scheduled on Saturday, Sept. 6, at the end of the third week of school. With such an intense start of the year, the students found themselves pushing through plenty of late nights, early mornings, weekends, and hours after school in the ASB room, focused on building floats and prepping for Homecoming week.
Senior Braeden Rice, who was in charge of the Lancer Lately the previous school year, took on a leadership role with
assembling the Homecoming floats for the halftime parade.
“There would be days I was out here til about 6 p.m. just screwing things together, cutting things and building,” Rice said.
ASB meticulously planned out the Homecoming rally, dress-up days, halftime parade, and decorations for the dance.
“Honestly, it’s so exciting as a senior,”
ASB president senior Kinley Morehead said. “The class worked so hard with their determination and willingness to come in every day to make sure things were done.”
The seniors had more responsibilities this year when it came to helping the freshmen and newcomers with their intense first experience in ASB.
Along with the hard work and determination came rewards. Group dinners and 6 a.m. call time with Mr. Connor Smith’s bagels brought everyone closer together.
“Even before the school year started, we got to know the freshmen and the sophomores, and it helped us step up as leaders,” Whitman said.
All of the hard work put into Homecoming week paid off with a successful
parade and dance.
“It was a little stressful, but we got through everything, and in the end, it all worked out,” sophomore class vice
Kendal Sullivan’s excitement grew once she got a taste of campus life.
“I am excited to meet new people and for the football games,” Sullivan said.
“I just want to have a good high school experience.”
With the variety of activities throughout the school year, there will never be a dull moment.
Freshman Reese Burleson is already planning to engage with many programs on campus.
“I like all the activities you can do here, such as photography and World Cuisine club,” Burleson said.
The TOHS students in charge of welcoming the freshmen had one goal in mind: to make the environment welcoming and less nerve-racking.
Department of Defense gets re-branded
The Department of Defense recently underwent a new branding, being renamed the Department of War on Friday, Sept. 5. President Donald Trump signed an executive order for its new name, expressing his hopes for the victories of the United States to be celebrated every time it is addressed. The explanation to the people was that the renaming had been in the works for months, in order to ensure it properly emphasizes the power and aggressiveness of the country.
Yemen’s Prime Minister killed by Israel
The self-proclaimed Prime Minister Ahmed Ghaleb Masser al-Rahawi was killed in an Israeli air strike, along with several other senior officials. Israel targeted Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, on Thursday, Aug. 28. Rahawi had his position since August 2024. The Houthis’ foreign minister, along with the ministers for justice, youth and sports, social affairs, and labor, were killed. Since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, there have been regular launches of missiles at Israel, leading to Israel’s air strikes in Houthi-held parts of Yemen.
Earthquake in Afghanistan kills thousands
An earthquake in eastern Afghanistan took place on Sunday, Aug. 31, just before midnight. The 6.0 magnitude earthquake resulted in at least 1,411 deaths, along with 3,124 injuries. A 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on Tuesday, Sept. 2, about 20 miles northeast of Jalalabad. Before the aftershock, the earthquake on Aug. 31 destroyed about 8,000 houses. While still not being able to reach some villages, it is believed there may be more dead and injured under the rubble. Most of the deaths were in Kunar Province; others were in Nangarhar Province.
Off Campus Pass
Strike on drug traffickers applauded
Kamla Persad-Bissessar, the prime minister of Trinidad and Tobago, recently stated her positive point of view on President Donald Trump’s use of firepower on Sept. 3. On Tuesday, Sept. 2, Trump ordered a strike on a boat suspected of carrying drugs, resulting in 11 individuals being killed. Expressing the harm that cartels had brought to her people and her lack of empathy for the victims, Persad-Bissessar thanked the U.S. naval deployment for its work in reducing violence.
“Chipocalypse Now”
On Saturday, Aug. 30, President Donald Trump posted an AI-created image of himself in front of the Chicago skyline with helicopters, flames and the phrase “Chipocalypse Now,” threatening Chicago with troops and deportations. Trump included, “I love the smell of deportations in the morning.” Over a hundred protesters in Northern Chicago rallied on Sunday, Aug. 31, against Trump’s plan to deploy federal law enforcement. Trump previously sent National Guard troops to Washington, D.C. to lower crime in the city. Following the deployment, several news outlets reported a drop in specific types of crime.
Freshman
NEW POSITION Mrs. Amanda Glover gets comfortable in her newly decorated office.
NEW SITE - Mr. Josh Eby moves into Jeniffer Modolo’s old office, in row with the other APs.
JULIA PINEDA-DOMINGUEZ Managing Editor
LAILAH SERNA News Editor
rally,
president Madi Lezandro said.
first month of
PUT TO WORK - Senior Morgan Humphry assembles the seniors’ “Nashville” parade float.
Colby Simpson - with permission
Sadie Knapp - with permission
Bridget Hunzecker - with permission
Kayla Grau - with permission
Colby Simpson - with permission
Creative Commons
Top Left: Senior Diana Walters, senior Selah Rose, senior Mariena Bassil, senior Devyn Masso, senior Olivia Butera, senior Sadie Knapp. Top Middle: Senior Chloe Ferrari, senior Delany Cohen, senior Tatum Hunzeker, senior Camryn Cooper, senior Kayla Grau, senior Shiva Sadri, senior Hilary Manalang, senior Nora Angelova , senior Sabina Justice, senior Sophia DeVitis, senior Elena Bagheri. Top right: Senior Nikki Krupnik, senior Gemma Spraggins, senior Emily Esau, senior Paulina Banaitis. Bottom left: Freshman Isla Cahill, sophomore Jenna Romo, freshman Carisza Germann, freshman Savannah Denuccio, freshman Charlotte Snow, freshman Margeaux Bleau, freshman Amber Yakel, freshman Tristan Bergmann Petersen, freshman Faye D’Attile, freshman Adam Snow, freshman Maddie Friedman, freshman Annika DeSanto, freshman Bridget Hunzeker.
Jane Flippen - with permission
Gemma Spragins - The Lancer Gemma Spragins - The Lancer
Jane Flippen and Ben McClain
Performing Arts
Meet the leaders
Ava Daughtery, Drama Club President
Q: What’s your favorite part of being in the band community on campus?
A:
Q: What would you say to a freshman considering band?
A: You should definitely join band because it’s just an amazing experience, and it will make a lot of your high school life.
People to know... Places to go...
ASBMeet the leaders
Kelsey Sullivan, Choir President
Q: What does your position entail?
Q: What does your position in theater entail?
A: I am president of the Drama Club, so essentially, run the meetings, advertising for shows, put out all possible fundraisers, and all that stuff.
Q: What got you into theatre?
A: I got into theater because I took an improv class in middle school, and really enjoyed it, so I kept taking improv classes and other acting classes. In freshman year of high school, I joined, Theater 1 and I really enjoyed it, so I continued from there.
Q: Whats your favorite part of being in the theater community on campus?
A: My favorite part about being in the theater community on campus is that its just a very high energy and very fun community to be in. Theater has such a way of self expression that I feel like you’re not able to get anywhere else. So its just very enjoyable to get on stage and sort of let loose.
Q: What would you say to a freshman considering joining theater?
A: I would tell them to just join and try it out, because you might really like some aspects of theater that you didn’t know you liked before. I just suggest trying it out and seeing how it goes from there.
A: I’m president of the choir, which means I help out [Janna] Santangelo with anything and everything besides teaching music, so I’m helping with anything she needs me to do. I also lead the monthly officer meetings. I’m at every extra activity that we do, and give everyone a job to do around the choir room.
Q: What inspired you to join the choir?
A: I’ve been singing since I could talk. I joined choir in the second semester of kindergarten, and I’ve been doing it ever since. I just love to sing. My parents, my family members hate it; I’m always singing. As for being president, I’ve always wanted a leadership position. thought that it would be good for me to run and see what I can do, and I think a lot of people see that in me, so I hope I can be a good leader in the choir.
Q: What is your favorite part of being in the choir community on campus?
A: My favorite part is that everybody is just so nice; no matter what, they’re going to talk to you and be kind. I feel like we are good at making conversation, and making everyone feel welcome.
Kinley Morehead ASB President
“I want to make this the best year ever, not only for ASB but for all the students. I want to make a difference and make sure everyone has the best time.”
Kayden Studebacker
ASB Vice President
“My goal for the year is to stay organized and have as much fun as possible, and be super spirited.”
Jade Yakel
ASB Treasurer
“My goal for the year is to make sure the student body feels included in everything we do, and to make sure the funds stay organized.”
Nikos Dukakis
ASB Secretary
“My goal is to create a fun, inclusive environment... and create a sense of community at T.O.”
Club Corner
Heart to Art Club
President: Evie D’Attile
THE GREEN HOLE
Tessa Whitman
Q: “What would your ideal theme be for a football game?”
A: “My ideal theme would be the USA theme because It shows all the school spirit and we just get to bleed green as well as feel the community.”
Dillon Neufeld
Q: “What are your goals for the Greenhole this year?”
A: “I want there to be people throughout the entire game whether we are winning or losing by a lot. I want the energy to be hype.”
Eddie Fernandez
Q: “Why a hotdog eating contest at halftime?”
A: “Lets get people out of their comfort zone, take one or two people from each grade so then it’s like a competition right...It’s just to kill the boredom in the air, you know?”
Caden Howard
Q: “What’s your favorite part of leading the Green Hole?”
A: “Giving the football team momentum and allowing all the students to have fun.”
Grant Stillerman
Q: “What was your favorite accessory that you wore to one of the football games?”
A: “The green tutu that I wore during the last greenout game.”
Khloe Naranjo
Q: “What does being a Green Hole leader mean to you?”
A: “I’m an example for everyone and it’s a big part in bringing the grades together. Making sure that underclassmen have a good time at their first game.
Sheyla Espinoza
Q: “What is your advice for all the lancers attending games?”
A: “My advice is to just go all out, don’t be embarrassed, you should love your school spirit, really just go all out, don’t hold back. Show up, be there, cheer and be loud. That’s it, have a good time.”
Jackson Auster
Q: “What’s the best Green Hole chant in your opinion?”
A: “I think the ‘I believe’ chant because everyone gets floured and everyone is super loud.”
Flipping the stands
Big change on field is put to test at season’s
first home football game
LAILAH SERNA News Editor
With every new school year comes changes. Starting during the 2025-2026 school year, Thousand Oaks High School’s home section and Green Hole will be flipped to the opposite side of the field.
Aug. 22 marked the first football game of the season, with a huge turnout of students and parents, ready to cheer on TOHS against Hueneme High School. Many students had opinions about the sudden flip of the stands.
The new Green Hole has been met with mixed reactions from students.
Senior Charlotte Nystrom was in attendance at the football game on Friday. She has been a member of the TOHS band for her entire high school career, and spent a lot of time near the Green Hole.
“I feel like we were very close to the Green Hole, and it was very different from how we normally are,” Nystrom said. “It was kind of chaotic, but it was more fun because everyone was doing the same chants.”
While this new arrangement might physically bring students closer together, they’re school spirit in correlation has experienced an increase, as they support their school in union.
Senior Sheyla Espinoza is another
Green Hole leader in charge of keeping the energy high and making the games fun for students. This year, she is experiencing the flip from a unique perspective.
“It’s definitely different, every year I’ve been here I’ve been on that side,” Espinoza said. “But I think the change was good, I think we definitely have more room and more people can come and be more towards the front.”
The TOHS faculty made the executive decision for this change for several reasons. The school will be able to save around $10,000 by not having to install and rent the additional stands for the duration of the fall.
The rented bleachers would cover the long jump pit, preventing the TOHS long jumpers from practicing for months in the off-season.
Junior Aella Keays after being on the opposite side for the past two years, she had some thoughts on the flip.
“It’s kind of weird for the people who have been here,” Keays said.
“It feels like those memories are way in the past. It just kind of feels weird and counterproductive.”
So far, there have been positive and negative reactions from students. However, football season has just begun, and there will be many games this year, and time for students to get used to the flip.
Majors
Advisor: David Harris
Location: CCC Meets: Once a month
The Majors program gives all students on campus the opportunity to learn about careers that interest them. The club invites professionals within our community to offer insight by speaking to the students, sharing their experiences, and answering questions. Students can sit, eat their lunch and listen to their speaker. This helps students to prepare for their futures.
Red Cross Club
Presidents: Hilary Manalang and Khloe Naranjo
Advisor: Jeff Lewis
Meets: Every other Monday in E-9
The Red Cross Club collaborates with The American Red Cross Pacific Coast Chapter to host approximately three blood drives annually. Focused on healthcare and volunteering, they offer volunteer opportunities in and outside of school.
Mock Trial
President: Brent Smith
Advisor: Eric Kamm
Meets: Thursdays in I-1
Focusing on the field of law, students work together to act as a group of lawyers whose goal is to defend or prosecute an individual. With only a few months to prepare, the students participate in a mock trial competition and travel to compete against other schools. The club teaches students new skills and how to apply them in the court, giving them an insight into different careers in law.
World Cuisines Club
President: Shiva Sadri
Advisor: Kelly Abrams
Meets: Every Monday I7
The World Cuisine Club surrounds itself with a diverse group of people from different communities, backgrounds, and cultures, working to celebrate the food that makes each and every one unique. At their meetings, individuals bring different dishes for everyone to try and bond over, allowing students to engage in conversations and learn while enjoying different foods they may or may not have tried before.
Environmental Club
President: Olivia Johnson
Advisor: Heather Farrell
Meets: Once a week in E-4
With a variety of environmental issues in our society, the Environmental Club works to improve the habits of our campus, in the hope of spreading awareness and bettering our environment for future generations. At meetings, they engage in conversations where they plan events within our community. Some of the events discussed are picking up trash at the beach or on campus. Sharing a love for our environment, students collaborate to address issues and solutions.
Women in STEM
Presidents: Dawn Baker and Kira Jones
Advisor: Nikki Malhotra
Meets: Every other Thursday in E-8
The Women in STEM Club is a great way to gain knowledge on the field of science while doing something fun. The members of this club share ideas to create hands-on experiments for their members to experience.
Advisor: Heather Austin Meets: Twice a month in I-6
Heart to Art is a Club on campus that encourages those who love to draw to express themselves through creating. The club works to let students have a voice on campus through their visual work, allowing others who might relate to their meaning to feel seen throughout campus. It was created to build a connection between artists and their audience via their creative insight.
Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)
President: Micah Mullens
Advisor: Rod Stillwell Meets: Tuesdays in J-6 or on the pool deck
The Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Club allows students on campus to enjoy the company of others who share the same beliefs, by playing games, listening to local speakers and eating pizza.
Latino Connection
Presidents: Jaquelin Pacheco and Marilyn Garcia
Advisor: Sandra Martinez
Meets: Wednesdays in I-8
The Latino Connection Club is a way for those with origins in Latin America to get in touch with their roots and meet others with the same culture. Activities and events inspired by their culture, including dances and performances, are created annually for their members and others in the community.
Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) President: Joey Goodnight
Advisor: Joanna Otey Meets: Wednesdays in I-1
The Gay Straight Alliance Club is a social club on campus and a safe space for those part of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. The purpose of this club is for people who feel unheard to be supported. The club also addresses major issues regarding the LGBTQ+ community.
Bumble Bee Club
Presidents: Julia Bowden and Khloe Naranjo
Advisor: Brian Cummings Meets: Every other Thursday in I-5
The mission of the Bumble Bee Club is to inspire hope and faith by providing support to the overall wellbeing of
Avery Worthington Senior Class President
Tessa Whitman Senior Class Vice President
Dany Shalhoub Junior Class President
Layla Ward Junior Class Vice President
Madi Lezandro Sophomore Class Vice President
Alani Gray Sophomore Class President
sponsored by
Natalie Yip, Band Drum Major
EARN COLLEGE CREDITS WHILE STILL IN HIGH SCHOOL
Athletes to watch
MUNHALL Sports Editor
As the new school year gets under way, Thousand Oaks High School’s fall sports teams are already making their mark. From the trails to the courts, fields, and pool, athletes are putting in the work and proving why the Lancers are a force of talent and dedication.
The varsity football team showcases senior leadership on the field. Senior wide receiver Hayden Vercher leads the passing attack with 74.4 receiving yards per game, while senior running back Jordan Johnson powers the ground game with 112.7 rushing yards per game. Senior wide receiver Luke Sullivan has been a reliable scoring threat, tallying three touchdowns. On defense, senior wide receiver and defensive back Wyatt Turley sets the tone with 3.3 tackles per game. Guiding the offense, senior quarterback Jackson Taylor has thrown for eight touchdowns, making him a key player for the Lancers.
Senior Sheyla Espinoza and sophomore Shelby Kaiser are the leaders of the girls flag football team, coached by Jason Brown. These standout athletes have done it all, whether it’s breaking through defenses on the run or orchestrating plays through the air. Espinoza’s speed and vision make her a constant scoring threat, while Kaiser’s poise in the pocket and ability to read defenses keep the offense moving. Together, they’ve set the tone for a squad defined by energy, skill, and determination.
The boys cross country team is led by senior Oren Hill, who burst onto the scene as a junior by qualifying for CIF Finals and narrowly missing the State Championships. With his relentless work ethic, Hill looks ready to cement his place among the program’s all-time greats. Senior Maggie de la Rionda returns as one of the state’s top girls cross country runners after a strong cross country campaign her junior year and a CIF Masters appearance in track.
The girls field hockey team, coached by Naveah Kammerer, features a blend of seasoned players and emerging talent. Junior Alexis Andersen anchors the midfield as a play-maker after competing in her first out-ofstate tournament at Disney World this summer. Fellow junior Sophie Smith, a three-year veteran and All-Star selection, brings powerful hits and smart play from the left midfield.
Homecoming win
SOPHIA MUNHALL Sports Editor
The Thousand Oaks Lancers kept their home streak alive Friday, Sept. 5, holding off the Agoura Chargers 20-19 in a nail-biting Homecoming match-up. The win marks the fifth straight at home for TOHS, dating back to last season, and bumps the team to a perfect 3-0 start.
It was a tight contest that could have gone either way, but the Lancers leaned on resilience, preparation, and crowd energy to secure the win. Senior quarterback Jackson Taylor led the charge, throwing for 195 yards and three touchdowns. Two of those scores went to Luke Sullivan, including a one-handed grab late in the fourth quarter that gave TOHS the lead. Taylor credited preparation and the offensive line for making it possible.
“We got the pictures, we saw the looks we expected, and that
Sophomore Emma Corrales Molina has shown rapid growth, using her stick skills and decision-making to strengthen both midfield and defense. Freshman Sadie Smith adds speed and intensity on the right side, making an immediate impact.
On the volleyball court, Coach James Park has assembled a balanced roster. Senior Leah Curtin sets the tone defensively as Libero and team leader in digs. Senior London Halvorson powers the offense as the kill leader, while her younger sister, sophomore Saylor Halvorson, ranks second in kills as a rising star. Senior Hailey Lauritzen runs the offense with precision as the team’s top setter.
The boys water polo team, coached by Craig Rond, is stacked with leadership and experience. Senior Eric Shea captains the squad, while junior Luca Bazerkanian leads the scoring attack. Seniors Callan Kluck-Hodgins and Tomoki Inayama, both state ocean lifeguards, bring strength on offense, while senior Hunter Collins, the Coastal Canyon League’s top goalkeeper, anchors the defense.
From cross country trails to volleyball courts, field hockey turf to the water polo pool, TOHS athletes are showcasing commitment, teamwork, and pride. With seasoned seniors and rising underclassmen, this fall season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet.
LILAH SWAVING Staff Writer
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift just got engaged, and while that’s exciting news for them, I can’t help but wonder if it’s going to affect Kelce on the field this year.
As soon as the announcement happened, the post “English teacher and Gym teacher are engaged!” gained about 1.5 million likes in the first 10 minutes.
Kelce is one of the best tight ends in NFL history. He’s Mahomes’ go-to guy and has been the heart of the Chiefs’ offense for years. But being engaged to one of the most famous people in the world comes with distractions.
As someone who’s not a Taylor Swift fan and is more interested in football, this might throw shade at Kelce. At the beginning of their relationship, fans didn’t like the fact that Kelce was dating Swift because they thought Kelce would not be the same. His game better not be interrupted with wedding planning, paparazzi, and traveling to see each other.
We’ve already seen signs of this. Reports say Kelce has missed a few team activities and even looked a little “off” in some practices. That might not sound like a big deal, but in
the NFL, small things can make a difference.
The engagement might interfere with Kelce’s playing time and how his head is going to be in the game. Swift making an appearance and being engaged is going to be a distraction.
Kelce is already busy enough with football, and now he has to balance concerts, media, and their relationship. All the attention and pressure will distract him, making it harder to stay locked in on the field.
Of course, some people think the commitment could actually make him better.
Mahomes even said Kelce is more motivated now because he wants to win another Super Bowl ring for Taylor. Motivation doesn’t replace focus and preparation.
I’m hoping that this season is going bring Kelce another ring to add to the collection, while also getting to marry the love of his life, if they decide to get married this year.
But Swift should focus on touring, and Kelce needs to focus on playing. Yes, being engaged is great, but everyone should prepare for the new side of Kelce we’re going to see this year.
In my opinion, the Chiefs need Kelce to be 100% locked in. If he’s not, their offense won’t be the same. Love is great, but championships don’t wait for wedding plans.
SOPHIA
FOCUSED - Senior Sheyla Epinoza gets a break at Aug. 21 game against Oak Park.
INTIMIDATION - Senior Justin Reer prepares to block Agoura’s defensive line.
HUDDLED UP - Senior Jackson Taylor talks up his offense before the next play.
How T.O.: The great high school experience
JOEY GOODNIGHT Editor-in-Chief
Whether you’re joining Thousand Oaks High School as a freshman or you’re a returning Lancer, there is a lot of pressure to have a great high school experience. Teachers, parents and coaches alike constantly remind us that our time in high school is fleeting and we only have one chance to do it right. But what does a good high school experience entail?
The Lancer spoke to a number of seniors to get answers they had for this burning question. Who better to talk about the high school experience than the students with the most experience on campus?
One common theme among respondents was that getting involved in every corner of student life was the key to success. Sports, clubs, electives, and other group activities on campus can bring you closer and closer to that “perfect” high school experience.
Kyren Peterson was one of the many proponents of this idea, encouraging students to “get involved as early as you can, go to clubs, talk to teachers and do sports.”
their regret for not prioritizing getting involved sooner.
“There’s a lot that you can miss out on in high school,” Hatch said. “If for whatever reason you do miss out, you’re going to regret it.”
There’s no wrong way to get involved, but not getting involved at all can make high school feel lonely. Finding community in your activities is one of the best ways to make friends and stay excited to come to school every day. Waking up early for school can be a dread but if you have good friends by your side you’ll find that school can be anything but boring.
On the topic of making friends, the other big piece of advice seniors gave was on the many intricacies of high school friendships, and how they inevitably affect your experiences while you’re here.
“Don’t get stressed about your friend group right now because it’s going to change.”
Jacqueline Sturges
There are a myriad of ways to get involved on campus. Going to Friday night football games and participating in the Green Hole student section is a great way to get to know people, have fun, and feel more connected to the rest of the student body. Football games stay hype and the amount of school spirit that radiates from the bleachers makes it easy to find those that share your energy.
If football games aren’t your speed, maybe performing arts are. From competing in band competitions to performing in the fall play, there’s always another activity to try, and meet people while doing it. TOHS works hard to produce two plays annually, and with each play comes a handful of responsibilities that need to be done. There is an opportunity for you to get involved anywhere, gain new skills and surround yourself with like-minded students who share your enjoyment of the arts.
Many seniors, like Delaney Hatch, voiced
Noah Kim and Petersen shared advice on high school friendships, their statements short and sweet.
“Spend time with good people,” Kim said.
“Make friends and have fun!” Peterson said.
In contrast, Jacqueline Sturges had a more nuanced take on the issue.
“Don’t get stressed about your friend group right now because it’s going to change,” Sturges said.
While high school can be where you find your life-long friends, this is also when your values and who you truly are as a person is developed. Some friends are meant to be kept forever, and sometimes people can outgrow each other. The good thing about high school is that everyone is figuring themselves out and there’s so many people, that if there’s drama or feuds going on, ultimately it will end and you’ll move on.
With all the complications of high school life, it can feel like no matter what you’re doing, you’re doing it wrong. However, as our Lancer seniors can tell you, it doesn’t have to be that hard; all you really need is to get involved and put some effort into making friends to secure yourself an awesome high school experience.
Every Lancer has a Story
Would you rather have a big friend group but you’re not close, or one best friend?
“I’d rather have one best friend I trust completely because she would be with me through everything, all our ups and downs, not just the fun times.”
Would you rather go to a dream college with no friends, or an okay college with all your friends?
“Dream college because I want to go to NYU really bad. I feel like I’d be excited to meet new people, but still stay in touch with my old friends.”
What is your favorite childhood summer memory?
“Probably going to Raging Waters with my dad. It was a super fun time and it’s something I think about often.”
Ice cream is now in our very own cafeteria! The cafeteria staff has now given students the opportunity to buy ice cream by putting money into their student account. Now we all have a way to stay cool.
New Cellphone policy?! We all know the new policy everyone’s talking about; gone are the days of Lancers aimlessly walking the halls with their heads buried in their phones during class.
What’s your go-to song when you need to boost your mood?
“Probably either a Green Day or Nirvana song, just because they have good guitar to listen to, and it’s uplifting.”
What’s your favorite movie or show to rewatch over and over?
“Both of the Ace Ventura movies because I’m a big fan of Jim Carrey and his older movies are funny to me.”
What’s one trend you hope never comes back? Why?
“Six seven” because it’s taking our school by storm and it’s really annoying.”
What is your favorite childhood summer memory?
“When I went to Sacramento when I was seven. It was my whole family and we had a really good time there. It was a really good family bonding experience.”
If you could instantly become an expert in any skill, what would it be?
“I’d want to be an expert at every subject in school so I don’t have to worry about my grades, I’d just know everything.”
What’s your go-to song when you need to boost your mood?
“I love so many songs, but I’d probably pick a bunch of upbeat musical theater songs.“
The Fall Menu from Starbucks is back in action! Fall is here, and one of the most popular places Lancers visit during the school year brought back their infamous Autumn (Read: Pumpkin) menu.
What’s up with only leaving one female bathroom open? We’ve been told it’s lack of campus security but, really? One female bathroom open at a time? For all of us?
Conan Gray’s and Sabrina Carpenter’s new albums! Hot new music that introduces the idea of accepting new things to help the Lancer community transition into the new school year.
Jellyfish (TSITP). We all know the boy with a pretty face, yet zero emotional intelligence, Jeremiah Fisher. His relationship with Belly Conklin is quickly becoming one of the most controversial.
Bonrad (TSITP)! If you’ve been keeping up with “The Summer I Turned Pretty” you know the devastating blow director Jenny Han gave to all the Bonrad fans in the latest episode.
Labubu. You know those overly expensive, ugly dolls that look like a sasquatch with colored fur? These dolls are a branch of fast fashion and we hope they will die out just as fast as they became popular.
Sheela Khairzad Apollo Carps Tristan Anderson
Bayla Klaidman
Lily Anderson Brayden Davy
Jimmy Shields
Charlotte Snow Matthew Evangelista