2023-2024 Senior Issue

LANCER

the

Thousand Oaks High School

Volume LVIII, Senior Issue | June 6, 2024

www.tohsthelancer.com

2323 N. Moorpark Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360

2 | SENIOR REWIND

thousand oaks high school | the lancer

it’s been real... ike many of my peers in room I-4, in sophomore year, I was part of the cohort of students who were randomly assigned to Journalism as an elective class. Little did I know, Mr. Solis’ decision to place me in Journalism would ignite a passion that would transform me from a reluctant transfer student to the editor-in-chief of The Lancer.

I still remember when I sat down to create my first page with Adobe InDesign. The way the spacing boxes fit into the page like Tetris blocks, the endless possibilities for design and the challenge of finding the perfect font (even within the Gotham HTF font family, there are always too many typefaces to choose from) — it was love at first layout. InDesign soon became my Goliath, a puzzle to solve with each new issue.

With each issue published, I pored over the finished layouts, stories and mistakes with my mom, quizzing her about the contents of my story to see if she actually reads them. After this monthly routine, every issue we’ve published, good and bad, are neatly stacked on our living room coffee table to

show off to family and friends.

For many of us at The Lancer, journalism has strong-armed its way into every aspect of our lives: Weekends spent at school, eyes red from staring at a screen for way too long and late nights working on our stories, an excuse to procrastinate on other homework assignments. Whenever anything remotely exciting happens in Thousand Oaks, it becomes a game of Can-We-Incorporate-That-IntoOur-Next-Issue?

Though for me, there will be no next issue, as I move onto the next chapter of my life, I know I will always be on the lookout for potential news stories and every publication I read will be scrutinized with an editing eye, looking for typos and misplaced commas.

Though I’m sad to leave behind The Lancer (and my Adobe Creative Cloud subscription), my battle with InDesign is over.

Now, it’s up to the next David to take my place in the fighting ring.

LANCER L STAFF 2023–2024 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Momo Sonoda MANAGING EDITORS Alyssa Kiszczak Abigail TrippBullough NEWS EDITOR Aandrea PinedaDominguez OPINION EDITOR Joseph Goodnight FEATURES EDITOR Riley Keeler SPORTS EDITOR Jake Bradley PHOTO EDITOR Tyler Lappin ASSISTANT EDITORS Abigail Kerns Gemma Spraggins Nikolas Walter Becca Glaubke Kevin Starr THE LANCER STAFF Kimberly Jerez Austin Mead Roman Mead Kailah Spencer Christian-Isaiah Aguilar Charlene Bonilla Gabriella Muller Julia PinedaDominguez Guy Albert Jasmine Bernal Elijah Brown Riley Brown Cole Howard Jackson Kurtz Cory McEnroe Natalie Rodriguez Lilah Swaving Anusha Ghosh Harout Kilejin Nazir Yilmaz ADVISORS Tasha Beaudoin Jon Gold

SENIOR

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index teacher tributes......................................................8 valedictorians.................................................9 senior column - annika ekenstam..................9 sports standouts..............................................10-12 elias chin feature................................................12 senior sports............................................................13 sports................................................................14 sports..............................................................15 back page................................................................16

senior rewind............................................................2 senior column - olivia barber..........................2 news............................................................3 senior column - ava kramer.............................3 news......................................................................4 senior column - kai horiuchi............................4 senior superlatives..............................................4 features......................................................5 advertisement........................................................6 features..........................................................7

Q& A

What is your most bizarre high school memory?

Bringing handcuffs to school and handcuffing my friends to polls.

Being hated for my car.

The time the fire alarm was tripped three times in the same day.

Seeing people sliding across the river that’s made in our halls when it rains.

Talking about doors for a solid 2 minutes with Mrs. Otey.

At lunch when two dudes started having a “your mom” fight but everyone thought it was a real fight and started crowding around and screaming.

Seeing the Christmas special that the senior boys do for the first time last year.

The fact that I get along better with teachers than students.

All of 11th grade Forensics.

Once, I saw two seagulls having a fight.

The one time us students gave each other saline shots in Dr. Malhotra’s class and nothing happened as a consequence.

Mr. Gemberling pretending to have a heart attack after some kid didn’t do his math homework.

Winter rally, when the boys do the mean girls dance.

If you had a senior quote, what would it be?

Q& A

Stay happy be happy love It’s over... go Why fall in love All good things must every moment to the best home when you could ability and love everyone with come to an end fall asleep everything you’ve got Focus on the drive safe, not slow Present, Care Chronic Enjoy it, because it goes by way to fast about the future Absentee

STAFF 2023–2024

ONE LINE TO RULE THEM ALL

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Momo Sonoda

We asked seniors to tell us the first line of their favorite college essays.

NEWS EDITOR Aandrea PinedaDominguez

“One’s values throughout their life many times can be reduced to one event, one day, one hour, which reflects true character. ” — Olivia Barber

STAFF WRITER Jackson Kurtz STAFF WRITER Jasmine Bernal STAFF WRITER Cole Howard STAFF WRITER Austin Mead

“I was ten years old, barely past the jumbled memories of early childhood, when I found that, at some point, I had made a new friend. His name was Fear.”

— Sushanth Engineer “Make money while you sleep or work until you die.”

— Anselmo Garrido “Nothing scares me more than first day of school icebreakers.”

— Ava Kramer

“Scooping dog poop. In 98-degree weather.

My t-shirt is soaked with sweat and has a tiny bit of poop on it.”

— Zach Lobenhofer “My best friend and I do not like cake on our birthdays.”

— Kai Horiuchi “I was oppressed.”

— Jordan Metaferia “To run is to live.”

— Kassidy Kajita “I’ve had the same black Jansport backpack for five years.”

— Noelle Macri “Ten years ago, I was introduced to music performance, and it’s had a profound impact on my life ever since.”

— Sarah Borwick

Olivia Barber Beating to the sound of my own drum: My year helping lead band It felt like three minutes that I was bent into that bow for the last time.

When I rised after what felt like eternity, with my arms raised in acknowledgment of all the other musicians standing behind me, the smiles and wide eyes of the huge team of staff and technical advisors was the first thing that caught my eye.

About an hour later, we would have gold medals placed around our necks and be named the 2024 SCSBOA 3A Champions. It was everything we could have hoped for as an ensemble and as individuals, and not possible without countless hours of work as well as our incredible new director, Mr. James Rumenapp.

There’s something incredibly special about being able to call people you’ve only known for four months your family. The TO marching band has that effect; spending more than 20 hours a week together will do that to you. From August to November, we work five days a week, every week, including eight-hour Saturday rehearsals, to perfect and perform an eight-minute show, only about 10 times. But there is just nothing like performing under bright lights for a big crowd.

And, in my case, there is nothing like conducting a show and carrying responsibility for tempo changes, cues and cutoffs.

Being drum major was never something I really planned on and somehow I ended up doing it for two years in a row. Before my junior year, I signed up to do leadership camps with a couple other students, led by one of the staff members.

My intention was to get the same instruction as a drum major would, so I could then apply the same principles of leadership to being on the field, up close with other members. By the time auditions were a week away, my name had made its way onto the audition list. My supportive and wonderful parents, long-time mentor and teacher Mike Freed, and best friend and co-drum major that year, Chase Thomas, are to thank for this change. When I was actually chosen, and a month later was running a rehearsal, regret was the furthest thing from my mind.

It was an honor to lead a group of people who are so dedicated and enthusiastic about improving.

Whether was the beginning of the season, and we could barely play the right notes while marching, or the day of championships, it seems like somehow everything that could’ve gone wrong, in fact, went wrong. But the entire band was dedicated to competing at the best of our abilities.

And now it’s over for me, and that’s a tough pill to swallow.

The TO marching band has given me so much.

The majority of my best friends have become just that due to my one simple decision to join.

Being drum major was a privilege I will always be thankful for, and I hope that I was able to inspire others to follow in my footsteps and that I had a positive and lasting influence on the program.

EDITORIAL POLICY The Lancer is the official school publication of Thousand Oaks High School, created and produced by students in Journalism.

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 (NSPA), Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA) and NSPA All-American Hall of Fame.

CONNECT WITH US thelancer.tohs@gmail.com Instagram: @thelancernewspaper Twitter: @tohsthelancer

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NEWS | 3

Senior Issue | JUNE 6, 2024

Ava Kramer

What it’s like to exit stage left after years in the TO spotlights If you have ever been to a performance, you know that it is common for the opening of the curtains to be delayed a few minutes. What you don’t know is this is because our backstage traditions are running a bit too long.

As an audience member, all you know is what happens on stage, but being in the show, and theater in general, is all about what the audience doesn’t see. Cast and crew often arrive at the theater hours before the performance to get ready. We run through the show, do a mic check, and always leave about a half hour for warm-ups.

These include physical shake-outs and repeatafter-me songs. This is one of my favorite moments because it is when the little bits of panic set in but so does the adrenaline. And no matter how big or small a character you are, we are all standing in a circle together, ready to tell you a great story.

This trend continues even during the performance. While you are seeing beautiful light and sound effects on stage, the booth behind you is a chaotic swarm of bees. Technicians are following the script to make sure all the cues are ready and they are also constantly communicating backstage, where a million other things are happening.

Props crowd the wings of the stage while the cast tries to watch without being seen by you, our audience. Because we have no wall behind the cyc (the screen on which lights are projected), people are running around the back of the stage to make sure they are in place. Five people are trying to help a single person with a quick change, scripts lie open everywhere and then there is always that one stress-free cast member just chilling on their phone waiting for their cue. And after all that chaos, we take our bows with pride and a sigh of relief. And then a realization that we do it all again tomorrow.

While performances are what make me come alive, I find just as much joy in the theater class or the smaller performances. Within a year, the theater puts on about 10 performances from improv to film festivals to movie nights, as well as combined plays with other schools.

Thousand Oaks is also the only school in CVUSD with an improv team. The variety of what I get to do in theater is what makes our program so extraordinary. I’m not just performing in these big productions but in class, I have crafted an awardwinning performance of “Lord of The Flies,” done stop-motion pictures, learned hand-to-hand combat from a college professor, done accent breakdown and performed one-woman shows.

And while the big applause at the end of a show was nice, I had to learn that performing was something I did because it brought me joy. We don’t always get the biggest turnouts but the cast and crew’s energy never falters.

So often theater is about those little moments you share with your cast. It is the last look at each other before the curtain opens, dancing in the wings and making faces across the stage, or the inside jokes referring to an improvised moment or a mistake.

Sometimes when the show is over and the PAC is empty, I will take a moment before wrapping and just kind of look at the theater, normally packed with chaos and movement, and sit in its usual silence, taking it all in.

NOTHING BUGS Benjamin AANDREA PINEDA-DOMINGUEZ NEWS EDITOR As the student sat hunched over their work bench, surrounded by rows of neatly labeled Petri dishes, the hum of fluorescent lights and fragile equipment served as a reminder of the meticulous work being done.

Still only in high school, the student was in no ordinary laboratory, instead they were working in a prestigious university-level laboratory where precision was paramount.

On the main workstation, under the bright glare of an adjustable lamp, squirming larvae took center stage in the student’s latest project.

For many, this scene sounds like a nightmare but for TO junior Benjamin Chung, it was the key to unlocking doors he never thought existed. As the first The Center student to compete at the Regeneron ISEF Competition, hosted this year in Los Angeles, his project focused on traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and was aimed at finding solutions to mitigate the life-altering repercussions that result from TBIs over time by using wax moth larvae as opposed to traditional animal models. Chung soared to new heights and returned home with a 3rd place award in the Biomedical and Health Sciences category.

Chung’s journey defied expectations from the beginning. While his siblings primarily attended Westlake High School, Chung chose to attend TO to join The Center after hearing about its transformative impact on his friends. He hungered for more than just an average high school life, driven by a desire to push boundaries.

“The Center was something I wanted to

Junior Benjamin Chung finishes top three in prestigious Regeneron science and engineering competition

take a chance on,” Chung said, knowing that it wouldn’t be easy to face, but realizing that the sting of never trying would be even harder. Little did he imagine that he would soon become the buzz of TO. With the help of The Center teachers and their resilient commitment to gathering supplies for students, Chung was able to mimic real-life TBI tests and conditions for his larvae. His motivation stemmed from a patient at Westminister Health Clinic who had been directly affected by TBI after an unexpected roof collapse. “I’ve been helping her with physical therapy, and occupational therapy, really helping her get on her feet,” Chung said. “I’ve grown a close emotional connection with her, and how just TBI has affected her life, and I believe that she was the biggest motivation for my project.”

The competition provided an environment for intelligently gifted students to meet and speak with like-minded individuals who knew and respected the hard work and research they each had put in. The seven-day competition was a time for learning, growth, and the creation of lasting memories and friendships. “The most important aspect of ISEF is just making new long-term friends and just having a good time in general,” Chung said. One of the highlight events of the competition is the respected pin exchange, in which students from around the globe take the opportunity to learn about different competitors, who they are, where they’re from etc, while exchanging a pin that represents their country or county.

“The first thing I wanted to do was make as many friends as possible, so I could have a good week at ISEF,” Chung said. “The pin exchange gave me the opportunity to

AANDREA PINEDA-DOMINGUEZ » THE LANCER

STANDING TALL — Chung presents his official project presentation board introduce myself and form connections with people around the world, and the amount of people I met was insane.”

As the days went by, the anticipation built until finally, it was the day everyone had been waiting for. The grind was over, the stress was real. “I was with my friends, we were all excited, you could feel that adrenaline rush and we were all sweating kind of and panting just to catch our breath,” Chung said. “We were all huddling together, reminding each other that we would still be proud of each other at the end.”

Chung’s journey through The Center thus far as only a junior and success at the ISEF competition earned him not only a prestigious award but also opened doors to many fruitful opportunities. His story acts as a testament to the power of passion, and the importance of support.

Clubs transition to 2025 Lancer leaders discuss some of the club work done throughout the year KAILAH SPENCER THE LANCER STAFF With the school year coming to a close, TO clubs are preparing for next year with elections. Clubs are a huge part of student culture on campus, as they provide spaces for students to come together and create long-lasting communities. Not only is it important to participate, but being involved in the decision-making process is even more valuable.

Junior Chokee Weezer, president of TO’s Asian American Pacific Islander Club (AAPI), shared her perspective as the president and founder of AAPI. “We didn’t do as much as I wanted to this year, but we definitely started a basis for next year so that we can do more activities,” Weezer said.

When thinking back over her first year as president, Weezer really enjoyed seeing the whole club come together in unity to brainstorm ideas.

“My favorite memory from being president this year was (getting) to be in the front and speak, and everybody just tells you their ideas for the club,” Weezer said. “It’s really fun to see our ideas come into action.”

This February, AAPI shared Lunar New Year traditions with TO by handing out red envelopes, known as “hóngbāo” in Chinese, which are believed to bring luck and good fortune for the year ahead.

For Key Club president Taylor Eich, senior year was a year full of volunteering. Key Club, which is known for its humanitarian efforts, is an international organization that provides high school students with the oppurtinity to make an impact on their community and develop leadership skills. Eich described some of the volunteer work that the club participates in.

“We go to Wildwood Elementary School and help students out with English and Math homework,” Eich said. “It was just fun being able to talk to them and help them with stuff that, obviously, we know, but they didn’t really know so well. It was fun watching them improve over the weeks.”

Key Club also volunteers at the annual Relay For Life fundraiser, a walk that celebrates cancer survivors, honors people who lost the battle, and raises money for the American Cancer Society. Eich says that helping out at Relay For Life was her favorite club memory this year.

“I was there with the other clubs who I know from previous events,” Eich said. “I got to see different friends from other schools and also hang out with my club, too.” She hopes that next year there will be increased club participation and that Key Club will continue to volunteer at events like Relay For Life.

There is an abundance of clubs to be involved in on campus, ranging from cultural fellowship to community service. Finding a place to belong in at school is sometimes difficult, but with the built in communities that clubs provide, it can be made easy.

OFF-CAMPUS PASS Donald Trump case reaches close, leaving many confused about the future of the election

Mexico presidential election with female candidates running for both major parties

Chang’e-6 flight to the far side of the moon sucessful

On May 30, former president Donald Trump was convicted in New York of 34 accounts of falsifying buisness records. These records were used to cover up $130,000 worth of payments to conceal a sexual affair between him and adult film star Stormy Daniels. Trump is now set for sentencing for these 34 felonies in July, right in the thick of his 2024 presidential campaign. This leaves many confused about the future of the election and a potential opening for president Joe Biden to add a line to his stump speeches.

Mexico held its presidential election on June 2, with the expection being that they would elect their first female president in the history of Mexico’s independence. The two main candidates from the major leading parties were Claudia Sheinbaum and Xóchitl Gálvez, both women. On the morning of June 3, Sheinbaum a leftist from the Moreno party, was elected in a landslide vote. The former climate scientist has high hopes for the future of feminism and action against climate change during her six-year term.

On June 1, China’s lunar lander Chang’e-6 landed on the far side of the moon with the mission to collect unique lunar samples. Chang’e-6 is China’s fourth successful lunar landing, and it’s second to land specifically on the far side of the moon. The science community sees this mission as the gateway to a large scientific breakthrough in our understanding of the moon. The lander will be used to drill subterranean material from the moon and is expected to begin it’s return to earth after only 48 hours. The mission in total is expected to take 53 days, with the lunar launcher having taken off from earth on May 3, almost a month prior to it’s landing.

4 | NEWS

thousand oaks high school | the lancer

QUIET IN THE CLASSROOM New club, Lancers in Law, creates an opportunity for Lancers to better their knowledge of the court system GEMMA SPRAGGINS ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR In the hushed environment of a dimly lit classroom, where the sunlight filtered through half open blinds, a spark was ignited within one ambitious student.

It was any other Monday in the midst of an eighth grade, lesson on United States history set a young man found resonence. Finn Kerns, the future Lancer in Law president, found himself unexpectedly captivated by the idea of justice and government. Ever since that history class, the sophomore’s passion only continued to blossom.

Now in his final years at TO, he has dedicated himself once more to other future Lancers in Law. Along with junior Aiden Light, Kerns set out to create a separate group outside of Mock Trial.

Both Lancers felt that there wasn’t a well-organized club with a good enough standing to represent students truly interested in law, without the commitment of joining Mock Trial.

And, although Lancers in Law is similar to Mock Trial, their purposes differ.

Mock trial not only spends time studying cases, but also goes to competitions against other teams.

Lancers in Law was created as a separate group to ensure that Lancers interested in Mock Trial would have a basic understanding of the justice system and court rules before heading off to competition.

As of right now, they are focusing on cases happening actively, and they plan on having regular meetings and discussing individual law cases once they become an official club for the 2024-2025 school year.

The Lancers in Law co-presidents look up to their supervisor, Eric Kamm, whose personal experience with the justice system will be beneficial for giving clear insight on the often complicated process of law.

Kamm used to work both as an accountant for law firms but also as a paralegal, and with his insight, he knows and understands the role

this group plays in helping Mock Trial become an even stronger force.

“I have a great passion for the practice of law, the legal process, and I’m a firm beleiver in the American system of justice,” Kamm said.

Kamm has been diligently equipping these students with essential insights, emphasizing critical roles within the legal system.

“We focus on why courts need all their aspects and how each aspect contributes to the case,” Kamm said.

This group is the perfect opportunity to learn more about what responsibilities come with working in the legal system.

“This is preparing other Lancers and myself by sharpening our critical thinking analysis skills to one day be able to get up in front of a room of strangers and represent an argument based on the cold ideas and facts,” Kerns said.

Time will tell if their hard work will shine through as they start preparations for the Ventura County Mock Trial competitions again this fall.

PHOTO » GEMMA SPRAGGINS » THE LANCER

ORDER IN THE COURT — Lancers in Law meet every Wednesday in I-1, to discuss the latest updates on laws and mock trial

APril AP ril studying TO May Testing AP testing is affecting students in many more ways than simply adding stress to their already full plates ABIGAIL KERNS ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR The saying goes, “April showers bring May flowers,” but as every AP student knows, April brings much more than that. Students sacrifice their sleep schedules, time, sanity and energy to pursue outstanding grades on advanced tests.

“I think the workload throughout the year is manageable but closing in on the AP test and trying to do homework and studying is difficult,” junior Casey Sillars said.

Managing all the work along with keeping up with her regular responsibilities has proven to be a challenge.

“I haven’t experienced an intense burnout yet, but I’ve had little mini burnouts where after a really big test or project I couldn’t do anything for a few days,” Sillars said. “It can definitely get stressful but after AP tests things get pretty low-key,” sophomore Trisha Chatterjee agrees.

She inquires “I feel like because I’m always studying for AP testing and because I’m trying to make sure I know all the curriculum before hand, I have to study in all my other classes and that makes me get behind in all my other classes and then I need to keep studying for those classes and I feel really burned out because I have so much work

to do and catch up on.” Yet again, it as been proven that AP students are falling behind in their regular classes because of the rigorous studying they have to do during exam season.

Chatterjee is studying for AP Seminar and AP European History, stress from those classes has her feeling burned out and she is behind in her non-AP classes because of it.

Many students across TO feel similar to Sillars and Chatterjee. A survey sent out among AP students showed that over 50 percent of responders have said that they have felt burnout at least once because of AP testing. An anonymous student describes the AP exams in nine words as “It’s like getting trampled by a stampede of squirrels.”

Another student, freshman Sophie Bloom said the classes themselves are good, but the exams are unnecessarily difficult and the culture around them is stressful Bloom is in AP Human Geography (AP HUG) which is considered to be one of the hardest AP exams to take as a freshman coming into high school.

She studies an average of four hours for each exam and often skips her art lessons to study, with permission, during AP Human Geography exam weeks.

She knows the importance these exams will have on her college applications, just as the other students do.

Kai Horiuchi

ETHOS teaches students the ins and outs of the business world, for now and for the future One question almost every single student has asked at one point in their educational career is, “How will this prepare me for the real world?”

I know that I asked myself this question once I entered high school, now one step closer to this “real world.” Little did I know that, just six short months later, I would find out just how a program I had been introduced to would answer that question for me.

ETHOS is the entrepreneurship academy here at Thousand Oaks High School, and I, along with 50 of my peers, were given the incredible opportunity to join the academy our sophomore year.

Over the next three years, we learned how to build a business from the ground up, build and give professional presentations and make connections that will last a lifetime. That’s really only scratching the surface of what we did in ETHOS. These are all skills that you will need for the rest of your life, as I was told many times by many different people. But today, three years older and definitely a bit wiser, I am the one telling the ETHOS Class of 2027 that exact statement.

For the past two years, ETHOS has created a student executive team that assists the teacher team with managing the academy. I have always been the person that chases every leadership opportunity possible, and this year I had the honor of serving as the Chief Executive Officer. While being CEO is about learning how to lead a team of full leaders, that is certainly not the most important takeaway.

It would be the idea that everyone has something to contribute, and that keeping an open mind to everyone’s ideas is the best way to grow.

You might think that ETHOS teaches real world solutions to real world problems through the power of innovation and entrepreneurship, and it does, but it is not only that.

Some students love group projects, some students hate them. My last three years in the academy have been spent working with nearly all of my peers on numerous group projects.

One of the most “real world” experiences you will ever have while in school, is learning how to work with other people. I definitely found this difficult at first, preferring to be independent, but it is an essential skill to have, a real world skill. You will have to work with people for the rest of your life, so my advice is to embrace it, find your role within a group dynamic that suits you.

I will end with some advice to whoever decides to take it. School does teach you how the real world works through more obvious models like academies centered around teaching you exactly that. But it also teaches you through models that may make a little less sense at first. I contribute all that I have learned to ETHOS, the amazing friends I have made, and the connections that I hope will last forever. Learn to embrace every opportunity and step up wherever you can, because you never know how it will help you in the real world.

SENIOR SUPERLATIVES kindest soul

best bromance

Hadar Tamir

Luke Cole & Trent Kulpaca

most likely to

most likely to

most likely to

go to the olympics

win a nobel prize

get canceled

Hanna Denson Ramon Moreno Preston Handler best hair

Taylor Crow

best car

Taylor Eich

best shoe game

Adrian Marquez

cutest couple

best rizz

Owen Miranda

that never happened

Taylor Eich & Liam Deprisco

most school spirited

cutest couple

class clown

Faith Yoon

Alissa Beaver & John McEntee

Liam Deprisco

most likely to be a billionaire

most likely to be on broadway

most likely to win a grammy

Max Padilla

Ava Kramer

Brooke DeHart

most likely to be a teacher at TOHS

Sierra Muthucumaru

FEATURES | 5

Senior Issue | JUNE 6, 2024

BABIES ON BOARD TO twins Grant and Avery Holmquist have the ultimate fun fact: They both starred as the famous baby, Carlos, in the comedy classic, “The Hangover”

PHOTO » JOSEPH GOODNIGHT » THE LANCER

HANGING OUT — Grant and Avery Holmquist co-starred as “The Hangover” baby, Carlos ALYSSA KIZSZCAK MANAGING EDITOR TO twins Avery and Grant Holmquist had numerous opportunities when they were younger to get involved in the acting industry.

Production companies often like to hire twins especially if they look similar, so they can have them switch off the role based on who was crying less in the moment.

That came into play with the generational classic, “The Hangover,” which many of our parents adore.

Avery and Grant portrayed “Carlos,” the lost baby that Zach Galifianakis’ character, Alan, rescues in a particularly hilarious scene.

Although they were mere newborns in the first Hangover movie, which was followed by two sequels, the TO twins have fond memories. Even if they don’t exactly remember filming.

“I was just the baby who cried,” Avery Holmquist said. “They put me in the crying scenes so my crying was my lines.”

Grant remembers when he was filming the third installment that it all came down to a polar bear stuffed animal and snake puppet. He filmed a scene on a set that was designed as a playroom and had dozens

of stuffed animals in the background. As a parting gift, the director let him choose a stuffed animal to take home to remember the experience. He chose a snake puppet for himself and a polar bear for his sister, as he believed she deserved one as well.

“I do remember the stuffed animal and I still have it in my bedroom right now,” Avery said.

Most people watch the movie and assume it’s the same actor playing the baby the entire film, however, Grant and Avery switched off playing the role. The twins find it funny to examine and determine which one of them is in each scene, and sometimes can’t tell who is who. Sometimes, it was neither, as a replacement baby was used.

“Just because I have seen her face and my face so much, I can easily tell which one is which,” Grant Holmquist said. “So it’s funny just to point out which scenes are which baby. In some scenes, it’s actually neither of us because they had to use a different kid for a couple of scenes so that is interesting to point out, too,” After filming and being a part of the whole Hangover experience, both Grant and Avery decided acting was not something they wanted to continue since they were so young.

“A lot of the time, I just forget that I was the I was just the baby Hangover baby,” who cried. They put Grant Holmquist me in the crying said. “It was so long scenes so my crying ago and it’s not was my lines. really permanent in my life anymore.”

AVERY HOLMQUIST Being child TO SOPHOMORE actors was an eyeopening experience and steered the siblings away from what they knew they did not want to pursue. Nowadays, Grant wants to get into the music industry, since he has found a passion through the Thousand Oaks High School band program. Avery wants to be an elementary educator as she says she “wants to inspire (students) to be better people because you know the future generation has been questionable lately.”

As the Holmquist twins focus on their high school careers and their futures, they will always remember being the face of the iconic baby in the film.

“

AROUND T.O.WN Friday Night Car Cruise May 4, June 28, July 26, Aug. 23, Sept. 27, Oct. 25, 4-7 pm, Old Town Camarillo Drive down Ventura Boulevard with your classic car. There will also be craft vendors, face painting. Try some local takeout by supporting the Camarillo Old Town eateries.

Happy Face Music Festival May 25, 12-7 pm, Rancho Santa Susana Community Park, 5005 E. Los Angeles Avenue Grab your blankets and lawn chairs and get ready to bask in the sun, surrounded by breathtaking hilltop views at the Happy Face Festival in Simi Valley. Satisfy your hunger cravings with delicious eats from the area’s best food truck vendors.

Art In The Park May 25-26, 10-5 am, 113 S Montgomery St, Ojai, CA 93023 Art in the Park has enjoyed a long tradition of displaying quality art. Presented by the Ojai Art Center, the oldest non-profit art center in California, the festival attracts artists from near and far. Everyone is invited to browse, meet the artists, grab a bite and enjoy the weekend in Libbey Park.

Sunsets Summer Concert Series June 2-Aug. 25, 6pm, Calabasas Tennis & Swim Center at 23400 Park Sorrento The traditionally private Calabasas Lake opens its doors to concert goers, providing a scenic backdrop and ample field seating for picnickers. The public is encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and sweaters. Some fixed seating is available on a first come first served basis.

Summer Movies in the Park June 8, July 13, July 27, 8 pm, Reyes Adobe Park, 30400 Rainbow Crest Drive, Agoura Hills Free Movies in the Park will take place once again this summer of 2024 at Reyes Adobe Park, 30400 Rainbow Crest Drive, Agoura Hills, hosted by City of Agoura Hills Community Services. Movies start at dusk.

Fathers Day Car Show June 16, 10am-3pm, Channel Islands Harbor The Father’s Day Car Show at Channel Islands Harbor on Sunday, June 16, 2024 from 10 am to 3 pm will feature an eclectic mix of custom cars, hot rods, low riders, motorcycles and classics. It is the perfect day to show off your rides and reconnect with friends and family.

BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE Construction Exploration & Training Camp gives interested students a chance to get their hands dirty ... and so much more

COURTESY » LAURIE BENNETT » CETC

FROM THE GROUND FLOOR UP — Members of the Construction Camp learn about various skills, tools and jobs in the industry camp is meant for everyone,” Bennett said.

Bennett stresses that construction is an industry where multiple skills are With summer right around the needed, sometimes unique skills. The corner, students are starting to create industry allows room for flexibility their yearly summer plans. For some, whether that includes responsibility, these plans might consist of hanging hands-on work or even overtime out with friends or going somewhere hours. far from home or seeing family. For “(There are) so many different others, summer is not only a time to avenues that somebody can take in have fun but also to gain knowledge this field,” she said. “Not all of it is and useful skills for the future. dirty, not all of it is you going out From June 17-21, the campus will and digging a trench by hand. There’s be home to a construction summer a lot of time where you own a piece camp presented by Construction of equipment, and if you like to play Exploration & Training Collaborative. video games, it’s very similar.”

The camp goal is to inspire, empower Bennett encourages other and create a memorable experience construction owners and bosses for students who attend, learn skills to come to the camp to see the in the following construction trades, carpentry, electrical, heavy equipment, campgoers’ skills, characteristics and “‘the spark in their eye.” framing and plumbing.

With artificial During these intelligence seven days, advancing daily, and individual along with it, the trades are split and assigned to [There are] so many dif- worry of students’ a specific day, ferent avenues that some- future career paths when campbody can take in this field. being replaced, now not only do they goers will learn Not all of it is dirty, not need to put into the importance all of it is you going out consideration skills of safety in the and digging a trench by process. While hand. There’s a lot of time and interests when learning new skills, where you own a piece of applying for a job, the camp will help equipment, and if you like but also whether it is future-proofed. motivate kids and to play video games, it’s Construction encourage friendly very similar. is one of the few competitions, industries that forming seven LAURIE BENNETT we see today that teams of four to CETC LEADER cannot be replaced participate. anytime soon.

Although the “I see where AI camp is built will help supplement the construction around the construction industry, the industry, but we will always need opportunity to learn important skills hands on,” Bennett said. “So we’ve including communication, problemgot new pieces of equipment where solving and safety is still available my people are operating it with the “That’s the beauty of this (camp),” joystick walking behind the piece of said camp leader Laurie Bennett, equipment. My guys aren’t even on who serves as vice president of the equipment, or you are using other construction company Arbee Inc. forms of AI, but as far as the software This camp can be for those who world or AI in the computation world, may have an interest in going into I’d say you’re going to have a lot more construction, whether they want to work being done that way. But you’re be hands-on or want to run their own always going to have a human eye and construction company. human touch on what we do.”

“There is so much to learn, this JULIA PINEDA-DOMINGUEZ THE LANCER STAFF

“

6 | ADVERTISEMENT

thousand oaks high school | the lancer

FEATURES | 7

Senior Issue | JUNE 6, 2024

The Force was with Drama Club Lancers improv takes on Star Wars while saying goodbye to their fearless leader, Ava Kramer alongside Ava Daugherty to run future improv shows as cocaptains. This year’s improv show acted as a send-off to their dear captain, Kramer.

On May 3, the Drama Club held the first and last Star WarsDuring the show, the improv team seamlessly bounced off themed improv show of the year. Students embarked on a one another, transforming ordinary scenarios into comedic gold. comedic journey that would unite them in unexpected ways. As Whether they were portraying quirky characters or navigating the curtains rose on their third annual improv show, the force of unexpected plot twists, their chemistry on stage was undeniable. their teamwork and talent was palpable, drawing in audiences With Kramer at the helm of this comedic journey, her from across the galaxy. guidance, as well as her leadership, helped the cast embrace the And it wasn’t even far, far away. challenges of the improv world with gusto.

In the months leading up to the big night, the theater buzzed “For as long as I’ve known Ava, she has never stopped being with anticipation as the student improv team honed their skills. one of, if not the, most determined, energetic and enthusiastic “We started preparations almost two months in advance but person I’ve ever met, that’s just how Ava is as a person, and I the week of the show was kind of a grind time for organizing, think she especially shows it through these shows,” Bergholtz finalizing the dates, figuring out showtimes, preparing said. “She always goes the extra mile to make our team the best advertisements and connecting with teachers as she can, which is something I’ve always admired well as other staff,” said senior Ava Kramer, the about Ava.” Improv team captain.

Through her words of encouragement and Among AP tests, advanced honors classes unwavering support, she fostered an environment The biggest and other extracurricular activities, Kramer where creativity flourished and boundaries were challenge is found herself sacrificing lunches and various pushed. Every year, since the start of the improv confidence. A lot club activities to prioritize improv practices. group three years ago, Kramer has identified the of people don’t join The persistent and casual practice schedule was challenges that creep on every group thus far. improv because they necessary to scare off any nerves that may arise “The biggest challenge is confidence,” Kramer are scared of being at showtime. Through every practice, the group’s said. “ A lot of people don’t join improv because up on stage with no they are scared of being up on stage with no dedication to its craft and each other only script. continued to propel them forward. Practice also script.” made it possible for students to form a closer and Working around these issues proved difficult AVA KRAMER more meaningful relationship with each other. but Kramer’s hopes and commitment made them IMPROV TEAM “The group of students that join are always possible to overcome.

CAPTAIN amazing and full of high energy,” Kramer said.

“Improv is a big team sport,” Kramer said.

“Improv can be scary and getting a group of kids “You have to support each other. Ever since who dare to do that really just means you have a great group of this year’s first rehearsal I knew we had a good foundation of kids, and it’s fun to teach them.” teamwork and working around these small issues wouldn’t be During practice sessions, the cast discovered the true magic impossible.” of improvisation: teamwork.

As the night of the show arrived, the theater crackled with “We spend practice just playing improv games and kind of energy and excitement. The audience, composed of groups, getting used to each other and strengthening the bonds within couples, siblings and friends eagerly awaited the spectacle about the team,” junior Charles Bergholtz said. to unfold.

Bergholtz has been a part of numerous theater productions “I am happy with how everything turned out, there’s throughout his years at TO and has now been granted the baton obviously always some things after any show that you may AANDREA PINEDA-DOMINGUEZ NEWS EDITOR

“

PHOTO » AANDREA PINEDA-DOMINGUEZ » THE LANCER

TO STRIKES BACK — The Lancer Improv team put on a performance of Star Wars, from Luke Skywalker to Darth Vader. think could have been different,” Bergholtz said. “But, it’s just another way to learn and grow as a performer, so I always try to take those things to heart.”

The show concluded with a dramatic, special tribute to the graduating improv team captain. The scene consisted of Kramer and Bergholtz, in character, fighting lightsaber to lightsaber until finally Kramer was taken down. As she took in her last moments, she told her comrade, Daugherty, to carry on her legacy.

“I don’t think a lot of people know that that was a symbolic way of passing the torch, because the person I told ‘Carry on my legacy’ to, is the person who is going to be captain next year,” Kramer said.

As the curtains closed on another successful improv show, the cast basked in the glow of their accomplishment. Though the night may have ended, the memories and bonds forged on stage would last a lifetime. And as they looked towards the future they knew that the force of their camaraderie would continue to propel them forward, one laugh at a time.

WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO HIKING CLUB STARTS ITS CLIMB Music is a window to the soul. What are Lancers listening to and why?

Frida Lopez Sophomore SONG: Black Beetles By: Gucci Mane FAVORITE ARTIST AND WHY: My favorite artist is MC BOB because I just vibe with thier music.

Sofia Munoz Senior SONG: Dance Team banquet video FAVORITE ARTIST AND WHY: Olivia Rodrigo because she’s slaying the game right now and she always gets me in my feels.

Elsie Maravilla Senior

Gabe Torreblanca Junior

SONG: You Don’t Love Me By: Dawn Penn FAVORITE ARTIST AND WHY: Morgan Wallen because I vibe with his music and I like country.

SONG: Play That Funky Music By: Wild Cherry FAVORITE ARTIST AND WHY: Justin Bieber, he can never fail you and someone put me into his songs.

Aaron Deleon Freshman

Thomas McDonough Senior

SONG: Bottle Service By: Shoreline Mafia FAVORITE ARTIST AND WHY: Bruno Mars because he’s so fine and his music is really good.

SONG: All of Me By: 21 Savage FAVORITE ARTIST AND WHY: Lil Yachty because most of the songs that I’ve listened to are pretty good.

ALL PHOTOS » TYLER LAPPIN » THE LANCER

Inspired by her scouting children, teacher Veronica Bass launches Hiking Club The choice of trails is very difficult depending on the group. They can’t be too scary or strenuous if the club has inexperienced hikers, but the trails cannot be too easy either because no one wants to be bored on the hike. Bass Veronica Bass has always been fond of the outdoors and did not struggle with this decision. hiking.

“I like the trails around Thousand Oaks because they are The Spanish teacher believes it is a social yet freeing close and convenient and you can find trails with different activity with beautiful views and great exercise. levels of difficulty,” she said. “We are extremely fortunate However, Bass and her daughter, who has embraced that we do not have to leave the city to hike in a beautiful her mother’s passion, decided to take their love for hiking place. One of my favorite ones is Mt. Clef Ridge by Cal further and create a campus Lutheran because you can club for it. see the Santa Rosa Valley In the proposed club, and Thousand Oaks from students will get to learn there.” about the skills for hiking and Bass takes full take a few trips to use those responsibility of everyone skills on the trails. interested and is very capable “Four students have of the safety of others. She completed the interest form, knows how to deal with all and my daughter has some wildlife and will teach these friends who are joining,” skills to protect the other in a Bass said. “Some adults have situation needed. She carries already offered to chaperone, all essentials needed for any as well. The future members circumstances: water, trail are interested in going on food, first aid kit, whistle, hikes and also learning about extra clothes, rain gear, sun outdoor careers, including protection, bug repellent, park ranger and wildlife pocket knife, fire starter, biologist. We might do some flashlight, map and compass trail work, too, depending on or trails app. the level of interest among She has been on many the members.” hikes and still has not GRAPHIC » JOSEPH GOODNIGHT » THE LANCER The interest in hiking is not had any difficulties with just climbing on campus, but being lost or having a bad across the country. encounter, and even if anyone gets lost she knows exactly According to a study by All Trails, the number of what to do. individual hikers increased by more than 130 percent from “If somebody gets lost, the best thing to do is to stay put 2019 to 2020. Even after the pandemic, hiking remains a because the people with whom you are hiking will know to popular pastime. backtrack, and they can find you where they left you,” she But not only is the hiking trail for finding new heights, said. “You can also blow your whistle so people can hear but it is also for seeking new friends. Bass discovered her you. By the way, you should never hike by yourself. If you love for the hobby through scouting. In fact, all her children do, let somebody who loves you know where you are going are also in scouts and have found interest in hiking. Bass to be so they can look for you if you do not come back when realized how many relationships one can build if put in a you are supposed to.” club full of people with the same interest.

The good news is that with the start of a new hiking club, She understands that not all hikers who join the club will TO students will always have a new hiking buddy to explore be seasoned or experienced in the outdoors. the wild.

CHARLIE BONILLA THE LANCER STAFF

8 | TEACHER TRIBUTES

thousand oaks high school | the lancer

Parting Words Abel Magana PHOTO » TYLER LAPPIN » THE LANCER

JULIA PINEDA-DOMINGUEZ THE LANCER STAFF Metal sparks travel across the room, bouncing from wall to wall, reflecting off newly shined and polished projects. The smell of metal that fills the air is a reminder that it’s a regular day in metal shop.

But for Abel Magana, it’s a lifetime of memories. For more than 25 years, Magana has been a long-time member of the TO community.

Throughout his time as a respected teacher, Magana has come to believe strongly in understanding students’ needs and the power relationships have on student success and achievements.

“Teaching begins with a relationship and that relationship should

Kerry Lyne PHOTO » KERRY LYNE » COURTESY

JAKE BRADLEY SPORTS EDITOR For Kerry Lyne, his arrival at TOHS did not mark the beginning of the school, but more than two decades later. he still reflects back onto the school he first saw 24 years ago as if it was a dust bowl and he was a cowboy.

“Honestly, my first impression when I first came up with my wife was kind of a little dusty and a little surprised,” Lyne said. “One thing that’s really grown is that the way the campus has been beautified with all these trees and benches.”

Lyne was born and raised in Massachusetts and headed off to Bowdoin College to play football and wrestle,

be one-on-one, if possible,” Magana said.

Through a strong teacher-student relationship, he hoped to inspire and provide his numerous students comfort as they navigated their way through high school and transition to a post-high school path, sending them off with a strong foundation in the practical and impractical teachings of metal shop practices. Magana says that one of the most important presences in the room, aside from himself, have been his teacher assistants.

“It’s great to have the opportunity to help my TAs as they take charge of security, safety and procedures of the metal shop,” he said.

Teachers assistants aid Magana by answering students’ questions or concerns with procedures or assignments, and most importantly ensure the safety of students and themselves by carefully observing and guiding students in handling equipment correctly. Further advancing their understanding, and problem-solving skills.

Looking back and reflecting on his time at TO, he thinks fondly of his past and present students but just as easily recalls his most challenging students, and suddenly a smile forms on his face.

“Sometimes I’ll get a student that challenges me, and as their teacher, I determine their punishment,” he said. “I try to give them opportunities to change their behavior, rather than initially giving them detention.”

By doing this, Magana believes students have a higher probability of learning to avoid potential risks to themselves and other students.

Despite the challenges that arise from different classes every year, Magana said, “I’ll miss my students and the supportive administration.”

The memories and extraordinary experiences that Magana made with the community surrounding him are something that will be cherished in the minds of everyone he has impacted.

“I’ve done what I’ve come here to accomplish,” he said. “I have finished what I’ve started. Now I’m making way for new blood, young blood, young teachers to take over the mantle.”

graduating in 1984, before attending Boston College for graduate school.

Then Lyne was off, moving from the East Coast following his schooling and off to the West Coast where he would begin his teaching career in San Diego before coming to TO in 2000, where he has been ever since.

As Lyne leaves TO as a forever mentor, he reflected on his mentors, as well.

“I would just say a lot of my memories revolve around my time with Coach (Manny) Valdez,” Lyne said. “I’ve worked with a lot of great coaches and a lot of great kids, but him and I have been working together all 24 years. He had the job before me, and he has just become a real mentor to me, and someone I really look up to.”

In addition to his time teaching various history classes over the past 24 years, Lyne was the junior varsity football head coach from the time of his arrival in 2000 until 2005, and he has also been coaching wrestling since his arrival, both in the role of head coach as well as an assistant. In his time as a wrestling coach at TO, Lyne has been fortunate to have coached nine Marmonte League Champion teams.

Lyne has also taken numerous trips to CIF in the last quarter of a century.

“In 2006, with my youngest son, Matthew, at CIF, just coaching with Coach Lyne and coaching Matthew, that was a good time,”

wrestling coach Dennis Ritterbush told the Lancer.

One of Lyne’s several CIF trips brought him the opportunity to coach and work with Ritterbush. who would then take the reigns of the Lancers giving the two the opportunity to reunite.

Lyne and Ritterbush were able to win the last four Marmonte League Championships, which let Lyne go out in the best way possible, with a grand slam of league championships.

“You could always just tell from the start that he would coach you through whatever you needed, and that you would always have him by your side and in your corner,” junior wrestler Atom Wroblewski said.

Lyne was able to provie is trustworthiness and reliability to hundreds of Lancers over the course of his time in Thousand Oaks.

Aside from the hundreds of student lives inside the classroom and inside the gym that Lyne has been able to positively impact as a coach and teacher at TO, Lyne has his own life with his wife and daughter, who Lyne is excited to spend time with in retirement. His daughter just finished her freshman year of college. “(He is looking forward to) travel, hanging with his family, spending more time on the East Coast when he can,” Ritterbush said.

“And coming back here and helping coach wrestling when he’s able to get out here.”

BECCA GLAUBKE ASSISTANT FEATURES EDITOR Jaleen Murphy has been a beloved teacher and coach for the Thousand Oaks Dance Department. For more than three decades, Murphy has poured her heart out and shared her wisdom to thousands of people and years of generations.

After 33 years of hard work, Murphy has a few ideas on what she wants to do with her time now that it isn’t being spent in the dance room.

“I plan on being a devoted grandma to my 14, soon to be 15 grandkids,” she said. “Spending a lot of time with them to grow relationships and help teach them values of life. I want to travel as much as my husband and I are able. I have not done very much travel due to the commitment here with the done program.”

And finally, she said, “I plan to devote more service and time to my church responsibilities.”

Over the years, Murphy has spent her time and dedication to multiple jobs inside the dance program. Murphy has served as the head coach of the Varsity dance team as well as teaching different classes of everything she knows, and she knows a lot. Murphy does an endless amount of jobs that probably go unnoticed by most.

“I hope the dancers under my direction and teachings will know

Jaleen Murphy PHOTO » TOKI LEE » COURTESY

they can do hard things,” she said. “And that any progress takes work, commitment and consistency. They can relay this to any part of their future.”

Aside from all the hardships that pile up from her job, Murphy finds many moments of pride that make the hard work worth it.

“Each concert is a moment of pride as you see the growth of each student no matter the class level they are in,” Murphy said.

“Beginners are a significant source of joy/pride because they have to learn and trust the process so they are ready for performing. Growing the program so we are highly competitive in the dance world and able to take home national titles.”

Tributes to the mentors, the friends and the teachers who’ll be leaving with us

Jen Smith PHOTOS » JEN SMITH » COURTESY

AANDREA PINEDA-DOMINGUEZ NEWS EDITOR Jen Smith, or Mama Smith, as she is known throughout campus, has been a part of TO for more than three decades and is now approaching her final “senior year.” As we delve into her favorite and least favorite parts of TO, we have to start in the classroom.

Throughout her time at TO as a respected teacher, her classroom has witnessed many passionate and heartfelt moments, ranging from school conflicts to meaningful interactions.

“Being the corner room you hear a lot of stuff going on,” Smith said. “It is just action-packed right on this corner, and the language that comes out of students’ mouths, it’s wild. Whoever gets this room next year will be just interesting.”

One touching experience was her close bond with a student whose mother had been battling breast cancer.

“There was this girl, Jenny Kent, and my youngest son was friends with her in kindergarten, It’s nice knowing that I put so much and her mom and I became friends,” Smith said. of my heart and “When Jenny was in 9th soul into this school for 31 years, grade, her mom got breast cancer, so her mom called and my family Mrs. Oliveri, and requested will continue the Jenny be put in my class, legacy. so I could just check in on her once and a while.

JEN SMITH She became my TA and she would sit right next to my desk and we had a close connection. I felt like a second mom.”

Whether intentionally or unintentionally, Smith has touched the hearts of Lancers every day, and she said they have touched hers since the very start of her career. In addition to her classroom duties, Smith has been an active part of programs such as ELD and the Christian Athletes Association.

“I’ve been an ELD teacher for many years,” Smith said. “I like to encourage and just be with those students who are just trying to make it in America by trying to help them personally or academically with their English.”

Next to her students, she takes immense pride in her son, Connor Smith, who is following in her footsteps as an English teacher at TO. “It’s been fun working alongside him,” Smith said.

“What’s cute is, I never say anything like, ‘My son works here,’ but he’s always like, ‘Hey, Mama Smith.’

It’s just funny. He’s a great kid and he reminds me of me when I was young, getting involved. It’s just fun for me leaving knowing that he is going to be carrying on the fun, dedication and care.”

As Smith reflects on her 31 years at TO, she recalls and cherishes the strong bonds among the teachers and the profound connections she has formed with her students.

“It’s nice knowing that I put so much of my heart and soul into this school for 31 years and my family will continue the legacy,” Smith said. “I feel like I’ve just enjoyed the spirit among the teachers and all the fun we have had. I will miss that dearly.”

In her final days at TO, she looks ahead with anticipation to her family continuing her legacy.

“

VALEDICTORIANS | 9

Senior Issue | JUNE 6, 2024

VALEDICTORIANS Cal Lutheran

Cal Poly SLO

UC San Diego

UC Santa Barbara

Annika Ekenstam

High school shapes us into the people we’re meant to become GIOVANNI AGUIRRE

SARAH BORWICK

UCLA

UC Berkeley

Smith College

SERENA EATON

San Diego State

TAYLOR EICH

DEAN HARRINGTON

BRODY MANSER

UCLA

USC

SANAA KUENSTLE

Harvard

Cal State Northridge

LAUREN OFER

ZACHARY LOBENHOFER

CADE MILLER

KYLIE MARTIN

NACHIAPPAN MUTHUKUMAR

UCLA

UC Santa Barbara

UC Davis

GENEVIEVE FOURNIER

ANNIKA EKENSTAM

AVA KRAMER

UCLA

LUKE COLE

UC San Diego

Occidental

NYU

Air Force Academy

JUDE COLE

RAMON MORENO

UC Santa Barbara

SERENA RINEHART

NICHOLAS SCHAAP

Our high school experience is meant to be unique.

These have been only four years out of decades to come, yet, even at 18 with no way of knowing what the future will look like, I feel confident in saying these years cannot be forgotten.

High school is meant to prepare you for your future, whether that be college, the military, trade school or the workforce, and TO has certainly done just that. TO has provided countless opportunities, from a number of APs to numerous programs and clubs that encourage academic achievement.

I’ve taken my fair share of APs, and these college level classes gave me the skillset to be able to succeed in my future academic endeavors.

Programs such as The Center and Majors were an avenue for self-exploration into various career paths and an introduction to professional relationships. These experiences prepared me for college by establishing a strong foundation of knowledge so I can go forth and feel confident in my future. However, academics have not been the most significant aspect of high school for me.

What I find has been more impactful than any number of challenging courses and scholastic opportunities is the personal and social growth accompanying our high school years. Through electives, football and basketball games, dances, rallies, musicals and concerts, TO gave me the ability to meet amazing people and form life-long friendships. My favorite part of high school has been, without a doubt, the people.

The people I met at TO shaped my entire experience. I think my friend group changed every year, either growing or changing entirely. Despite the fluidity of some of my friendships, what remains unchanging is the memories. Over the past four years, I’ve laughed with my friends in class, had 2 a.m. confessions, played every GamePigeon game, went for countless late-night food runs or long beach days, started rather unproductive study groups and probably spent hundreds of hours on FaceTime. Maybe there were days I woke up tired or stressed, but not once have I regretted the time spent with my friends.

Together, we laughed, cried, stressed about an assignment, talked through our personal struggles, danced at homecoming and prom, and lived our teenage years. All these experiences, plus countless more, have shaped me into who I am today, and I could not be more grateful. I still find it kind of crazy how once upon a time, they were only people in my classes who I barely knew the names of. Yet, through all the school events, strangers became friends, and friends became best friends.

While I will always be grateful for the academic experiences TO offered that allow me to pursue my dreams, my high school experience has been made all the better by my friends, new and old, who encouraged me to grow, laugh and live in the moment.

UCLA

VALUABLE QUOTES

“I used to just be a crastinator, but I got so good I went pro.”

- Brody Manser

“Do or do not. There is no try.” (Yoda) - Dean Harrington ANYA SHAH

ALL PHOTOS » TYLER LAPPIN » THE LANCER

DENVER VAUGHT

“Reach for the stars, so if you fall, you can land on a cloud.”

- Luke Cole

“Discipline, not motivation.”

- Zachary Lobenhofer

“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us.” (Gandalf) - Annika Ekenstam

“If it’s true, it’s not gossip, it’s lore.”

- Ava Kramer

“Ponte las pilas y échale ganas” - Ramon Moreno

10 | SENIOR SPORTS

thousand oaks high school | the lancer

SPORTS

STANDOUTS Athena Gonzalez

Ava Faciana

stunt

College: Chico State Major: Liberal Studies and Marketing Pre-game ritual: Listening to Drake Hype song: Best I Ever Had by Drake Inspiration: Gabby Butler

College: Cal State Northridge Major: Early Childhood Education Pre-game ritual: Listening to music and having a good mindset Inspiration: People that I’ve seen growing up Advice for younger athletes: Don’t let things get you down

Bianca Scally

stunt

4-YEAR VARSITY

4-YEAR VARSITY

Blake Lauritzen

field hockey

football

College: Northern Arizona Major: Business Pre-game ritual: Going to Pieology with Cory McEnroe Hype song: RIP Roach by XXXTenacion Inspiration: My father

College: Hood College Major: Biology Pre-game ritual: Hyping up teammates Pre-game meal: N/A Hype Song: God’s Plan by Drake 4-YEAR VARSITY AND COMMITTED

Cassidy Kajita

COMMITTED

Dean Harrington

cross country

football

College: San Diego State Major: Business Finance Pre-game ritual: Put airpods in with no music playing Inspiration: Dad Advice for younger athletes: Work hard

College: UC Davis Major: Environmental Science Hype song: Anything by Foo Fighters Advice for younger athletes: Just keep grinding Pre-game meal: Pasta nights with team

COMMITTED

COMMITTED

Elias Chin

Grace Hunter

basketball

College: Amherst Major: Undecided Hype song: Anything J-Cole Pre-game meal: Pasta 3 hours before and a banana 1 hour before Advice for younger athletes: Stay lifting even if you like your sport

stunt

College: Moorpark Major: Communications Pre-game ritual: Do my hair, do my make-up, listen to music Inspiration: Coach Bri Martin Advice for younger athletes: Enjoy what you do 4-YEAR VARSITY AND COMMITTED

Hanna Denson

4-YEAR VARSITY

Ivy Williams

swimming

College: Cal State Fullerton Major: Psychology Hype song: King Never Die by Eminem Pre-game ritual: Warm up and stretch 4-YEAR VARSITY

soccer

College: UC Irvine Major: Business Pre-game ritual: Listen to music and get in the right zone Inspiration: My dad Advice for younger athletes: Find balance and decide how much you really like the sport

COMMITTED ALL PHOTOS » TYLER LAPPIN » THE LANCER

CROSS COUNTRYGIRLS CROSS GIRLSCOUNTRY CROSS COUNTRY BOYSBOYS CROSS COUNTRY Placed 4th Placed Placed Placed 2nd 2nd 2nd

GIRLS GOLF 3-3

GIRLS TENNIS 5-14

GIRLS FIELD HOCKEY 1-11

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL 20-5

FOOTBALL 9-4

BOYS WATER POLO 16-13

FALL SPORTS 2023–2024

SENIOR SPORTS | 11

Senior Issue | JUNE 2024

Jackson Riggio

James Rocha

wrestling

College: Moorpark College Major: Business and Technology Pre-game ritual: Listen to music Hype song: Over by Drake Inspiration: Kobe Bryant Advice for younger athletes: Stick with it 4-YEAR VARSITY

Katrina Humphrey College: Cal State Fullerton Major: Elementary Education Hype song: Pink Friday Girls by Nicki Minaj Pre-game ritual: Listen to music and go to Starbucks Advice for younger athletes: Keep working hard

Matt Siegel

4-YEAR VARSITY

College: San Diego State Major: Kinesiology Pre-game ritual: Pace and listen to music Hype song: Nightcrawler by Travis Scott 4 YEAR VARSITY

cross country

COMMITTED

golf

College: Ventura Major: General Education Pre-game ritual: Drink a Gatorade and hit balls Advice for younger athletes: Keep playing whatever you like and don’t let people that are better than you get in your way

Morgan Quinn

field hockey

4-YEAR VARSITY

College: Santa Clara Major: Computer science Pre-game meal: Eat or drink something with caffeine Advice for younger athletes: You get out what you put in Hype song: Bulls on Parade by Rage Against the Machine

Matthew Fisher

wrestling

Moira Scally

College: Undecided Major: Undecided Pre-game ritual: Music Hype song: S*** Me Out Two by NLE Choppa Advice for younger athletes: Keep going Inspiration: Coach

Liam Papavasiliou

stunt

wrestling

4-YEAR VARSITY

track and field

College: University of Las Vegas Major: Kinesiology Pre-game ritual: Wear Beats headphones even if nothing is playing Hype song: Aston Martin by Rick Ross

College: Cal Poly Humboldt Major: Wildlife and Ecology Pre-game ritual: Listen to music Inspiration: Dad Hype Song: September by Earth, Wind & Fire 4-YEAR VARSITY

Nachiapaan Muthukumar

Rosslyn Gore

tennis

College: UCLA Major: Civil Engineering Pre-game ritual: Eat a healthy snack Hype song: Call Me Maybe by Carly Rae Jepsen

Samantha Forde

COMMITTED

4-YEAR VARSITY

College: Penn State Major: Finance and accounting Pre-game ritual: Team dinner Hype song: Not like us by Kendrick Lamar Inspiration: Ashley Dotson Advice for younger athletes: Stay focused

Scarlett-Ann Hostetter

soccer

College: Colorado School of Mines Major: Mechanical Engineering Advice for younger athletes: Put in the work even when no one is watching Pre-game ritual: Listening to music Inspiration: Julie Ertz 4-YEAR VARSITY AND COMMITTED

waterpolo

COMMITTED

stunt

College: Cal State Fullerton Major: Elementary Education Pre-game ritual: Eating the same meal before every game Inspiration: The seniors from freshman year

4 -YEAR VARSITY

ALL PHOTOS » TYLER LAPPIN » THE LANCER

WINTER SPORTS 2023–2024

BOYS BASKETBALL 26-8

GIRLS BASKETBALL 12-15

GIRLS WATER POLO 13-13

BOYS WRESTLING 5-2

CO-ED WRESTLING 8-9

GIRLS WRESTLING 5-2

BOYS SOCCER 14-8-3

GIRLS SOCCER 11-3-4

12 | SENIOR SPORTS Scott Mahannah

thousand oaks high school | the lancer

Sydney Korkosz

football

College: Cal Lutheran Major: Psychology Pre-game ritual: Pickle juice shots Advice for younger athletes: Lock in

field hockey

College: Trinity College Major: Biology Pre-game ritual: Play music and drink a Red Bull Hype song: Suavemente Pre-game meal: Elvis Crespo 4-YEAR VARSITY AND COMMITTED

COMMITTED

Thomas McDonough

Tori Masters

waterpolo

College: Connecticut College Major: Economics Pre-game ritual: Baptizing friend and teammate Dean before every game Inspiration: Old teammate Quentin Chatman COMMITTED

softball

College: Texas A&M Commerce Major: Veterinarian Medicine Pre-game ritual: Listen to music Inspiration: My dad and my pitching coach Advice for younger athletes: Don’t give up and don’t let anyone get in your head

4-YEAR VARSITY AND COMMITTED ALL PHOTOS » TYLER LAPPIN » THE LANCER

Chin bids goodbye with trifecta of records Lancer legend leaves lasting legacy and finishes historic hoops career as program leader in points, rebounds, assists and also the composition of the team and the way we interacted with each other changed a lot, too.”

After losing in the opening round of the CIF sectional playoffs in Chin’s junior year under Baltau, Chin strived to bring a drastic change to his gameplay. This year, he was stronger, tougher and better inside en route to season averages of 22.0 points, 9.9 rebounds, 7.0 assists and 1.4 blocks.

“During the whole offseason, I’d play and lift five-to-six hours everyday, so I think just being in the gym, there’s no secret trick,” Chin said.

for points, giving him the big three of records as well as a 15-point win.

Elias Chin will be honored for To his teammates, his success years to come for his Lancer school was not a surprise. records in points, rebounds and “He’s a good teammate, point assists. guard, good at talking and getting But what about for speaking people’s response,” Lancer star Greek? junior Trent MacLean said. “In all “He’s a nerd, that’s the best way I the close games, he got us settled can put it,” said sophomore Gabriel in and told us where to go and all Chin, Elias’ younger brother. “He our spots.” loves chess, he’s learning languages, That was a career highlight he’s a complete nerd.” for Chin, but it was not his most An ideal combination of brains memorable moment. and brawn, Chin ended his career “My sophomore year, we as a Lancer on perhaps the most were playing a CIF game against electric three-year run in school Brentwood and we had a twohistory. In addition to minute stretch where Cade myriad school records, he Huggins caught an alleyled the program to the CIF oop and then Jack Munro semifinals and also pulled off When I first went into that (Unified had a highlight play, and a perfect ACT score.

Sports) it was me thinking, yeah I’d be then I made a corner three, Chin’s historic Lancer able to help these people out. I think and I think it was the career was anything but easy. they’ve made a bigger impact on me loudest the Green Hole has Despite earning a varsity than I’ve made on them. ever been when I’ve been spot as a freshman in the playing,” Chin said.

2020-21 season, Chin and This is just one of the ELIAS CHIN his teammates were given LANCER BASKETBALL STAR SENIOR many moments that nearly the task of playing basketball made the top blow off of at the peak of a pandemic. the gym during his career.

Then. Following a historic And now he’ll look to do run in the CIF playoffs as a This extra effort was enough to the same thing at Amherst College sophomore the following year, the solidify Chin into immortality, as, in Massachusetts. school parted ways with long-time heading into Marmonte League But Chin’s impact doesn’t end in head coach, Rich Endres, pivoting play, the realization that the school the classroom or on the court, as to young leader Logan Baltau. record for points, rebounds and he’s been a constantly active buddy Right as the height of his basketball assists, were very much in reach. for Unified Sports at TO. career was underway, Chin had a On the same January night, Chin “When I first went into that critical coaching change. was able to capitalize and break the (Unified Sports) it was me “It was a big transition, records for rebounds and assists. thinking, yeah I’d be able to help especially the basketball styles,” Then, in the first postseason game these people out,” Chin said. “I Chin said. “Our offenses, our against King High School, Chin think they’ve made a bigger impact defenses, they changed drastically, was able to break the school record on me than I’ve made on them.”

JAKE BRADLEY SPORTS EDITOR

“

PHOTO » TYLER LAPPIN » THE LANCER

SHOOT TO SUCCEED — Lancer star Elias Chin pulls up for a three-point attempt en route to a 86-82 win over Great Oak

BOYS SWIM 6-4

GIRLS SWIM 6-4

BOYS BASEBALL 10-17

GIRLS SOFTBALL 12-13

BY THE NUMBERS

COMPETITIVE CHEER 6-4

BOYS GOLF 6-4

TRACK 8-1-1

per 22.0 pointsgame

rebounds per game

9.9

7.0 perassists game

blocks per game

1.4

BEACH VOLLEYBALL 11-3

BOYS TENNIS 7-11

SPRING SPORTS 2023–2024

SENIOR SPORTS | 13

Senior Issue | JUNE 6, 2024

Papavasiliou sets record pace As his chapter as a Lancer concludes, Liam Papavasiliou leaves for Santa Clara University as the new mile record-holder “But when you see that it’s usually a little bit off, so I wasn’t quite sure.”

Thousand Oaks High has been around since 1962, and some of the Lancers’ most prestigious records date back for more than four decades, perhaps none more important than the prestigious mile time in track and field.

Arguably the sport’s most coveted record, Steve Fairman established a new best in 1980 with a time of 4 minutes, 12.55 seconds.

So any fade down the final stretch may have cost Papavasilou not only an important first-place finish in mid-April’s Ventura County Championships, but a chance at the record.

“Then I’m laying on the ground after and everyone’s congratulating me, ‘So I was like, ‘Oh, I broke it.’ So there was a lot of emotion because that’s the premier record for distance running, it’s been a long for a while and a lot of good runners have tried to break it.”

Forty-four years after Fairman set the Lancers’ long-standing record, Papavasiliou eclipsed his mark with his 4:09.94 run.

And for his honor, he got quite the prize.

PHOTO » COURTESY » MARLENE WILCOX “I think that Liam’s mile was outstanding at the Ventura County Championships,.”

RUNNING ON FULL — Liam Papavisiliou (right) track and field head coach Marlene Wilcox set a Lancer record for the mile with a time of told The Lancers. “That record goes way 4:09.94 at the Ventura County Championships. back to Steve Fairman, (and) he came out and met with Liam after he broke the record and wrote a donation check for $409.94.”

JAKE BRADLEY Before setting records as a senior, Papavasiliou had a rise to SPORTS EDITOR glory that was far from anticipated.

As his freshman year began, there were hardly any cross country meets due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but amidst those With one lap to go in the most important mile race of his struggles, Papavasiliou was able to run a 4:31 mile. However career, Liam Papavasilou wasn’t sure if fate was in the cards.

“We came through at 3:07 or so, and I was like we got this, so during his sophomore year, as the pandemic was settling down, Papavasiliou took a step back and had worse nutrition and at that point it was just trying to hold on as long as I could and worse times. then coming through, I see the time is 4:09 something,” he said.

Kajita goes the distance for Lancers After a terrific senior season and a thrilling career, Cassidy Kajita is off to compete for UC Davis next season.

Before she leaves, she caught up with the Lancer to discuss her love for running, the process of getting recruited, how she approached running throughout her career and her inspirations for the sport and during her Lancer career.

The Lancer: What inspired you to start running?

Cassidy Kajita: “Basically, I wasn’t really good at any other sports, that was the main thing. Because as a kid, my mom would put us into little kid’s soccer and stuff but we never really liked to it. I knew from when I was kid that I liked to run, so when I got to high school I was like well they have a cross country team so I might as well join.”

The Lancer: Did you ever envision yourself having a future in cross country?

Kajita: “Not really, at least not initially. Junior year, and this year, too, I realized, ‘Oh, wait, I might be able to do something with this. But up until then it was mostly just, ‘Eh, this is fun.’”

The Lancer: How do you envision your future with running?

Kajita: “I’m not really too sure yet, it’s definitely a much different sort of running scene once you get

Soccer star also helped guide girl’s flag football team

to college and beyond because you’re not doing, for track at least, you’re not doing the (3,200) anymore, you’re doing the 3K, and you’re not doing the 1,600 anymore, you’re doing the 15. So it all kind of shifts a little, and of course there’s also like the 5K and the 10K on the track. So it’s a bit of a different scene, I’ll probably have to sort of feel it out for the first few years at Davis.”

The Lancer: Was there anyone that inspired you in your career?

Kajita: “Probably our old senior, Matilda Fitzgereld. She was really a big influence and just really a cool person on the team. She definitely sort of helped me when I was in a few rough spots for the first few years. And just overall she’s just a really good, cool runner and inspirational.”

The Lancer: How was it managing school with cross country and having that pressure?

Kajita: “It was definitely a bit challenging at times trying to figure out how you want to divy up your time and stuff. Because there’s a lot of commitments that you have to make to the teams. It’s running, so you have to really repeatedly hit that every single day. It’s not like other sports where it’s like, ‘OK, yeah, you need a break.’ We’re running like six days a week, so it’s challenging, but I wouldn’t say it’s a burden. It’s kind of a fun little break from school and academics and all of that, you just get a two-hour block where it’s like, ‘Yay I get to run and have fun and do random stuff with my friends. So it’s challenging but fun.”

FOR MORE ON

Cassidy Kajita

“

Two-sport star Ivy Williams leads the way

Star runner runs into the record books after sensational senior year GEMMA SPRAGGINS ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

“I ran 4:31 my freshman year and I didn’t break that my sophomore year,” he said.

The grind that Papavisliou has endured just shows how nothing was given to him and everything was earned, as heading into his prestigious senior season, he upped his weekly mileage by twenty miles.

Track and Field is different from most sports as it is more I think that Liam’s mile was revolved around outstanding at the Ventura individual County Championships.

That hopes and record goes way back to Steve responsibilities Fairman, (and) he came out that carry and met with Liam after he through a broke the record and wrote a rigorous regular donation check for $409.94. season, as well as an even MARLENE WILCOX more taxing TRACK & FIELD COACH postseason.

But that’s exactly where stars shine the brightest, and that is exactly what Papavasiliou did in his last race before CIF. This sensational senior season that marked his last hoorah as a Lancer for Papavasiliou closes this chapter and prepares him for the next, as he will be taking his talents to Santa Clara University, where also plans to major in Computer Science.

Almost four decades after her Lancer teammate Fairman set the record in 1980, his fellow star Wilcox was named as the head coach for her own alma mater, and in the five years since her arrival she’s not only been able to coach five straight undefeated Marmonte League Championship teams with the boys, but she also watched as her old teammate’s record was finally broken 44-years later.

And she was the coach of the now record holder.

“This wasn’t handed to Liam,” she said. “He went through hell and back in his previous years struggling to perfect that race. It came together and it was sensational, and obviously it stood for 44-years, that tells you how significant that was.”

SEE PAGE 15

KAILAH SPENCER STAFF WRITER

Williams said. “He’s the one who trains me and pushes me to be a better player and he’s always out there improving me.”

One major improvement Williams has noticed when comparing her current self to herself during her first season at TO is in her confidence.

“I was pretty timid and wanted to just get rid of the ball and pass it,” Williams said.

She has always regarded herself as an aggressive player, but it wasn’t until senior year that she really gained the confidence that she has now.

Being a student athlete isn’t always easy, but Ivy shared how she manages the stress of school and soccer.

“It’s all about balance,” Williams said. “It helps that I enjoy the sport.

It’s hard to keep balance when you’re not fully in what you’re playing, but you just have to find something that you can do that’s not soccer because you can’t let the sport define you.

There has to be some escape to go outside of the sport you play.”

When looking back over the season, Williams gave props to the underclassmen for contributing to the great success of the team.

With an incredible 2023-2024 season, senior Ivy Williams made an impact at TO that will last a lifetime.

Serving as captain of the girl’s varsity soccer team, which advanced to the CIF quarterfinals, she proved to be an extraordinary asset to the team. That was enough to get her recognized by colleges, and she recently committed to UC Irvine where she will continue her soccer career.

Between playing club soccer and playing for her school, Williams’ has had a love for the sport for as long as she could remember, and it’s become an important part of her life. So did girl’s flag football, which Williams helped lead in its first year as a program at TO. “I’ve been playing since forever,” Williams said. “I’ve never had life without soccer, but I just continue to develop more love for the sport and competing.”

Williams has come far in her career and developed as a player, but she didn’t make it to this point alone.

She’s received help from teammates and coaches, but one person in particular has supported her the most.

FOR MORE ON “My main role model is actually my dad,”

Ivy Williams

SEE PAGE 15

14 | SPORTS

thousand oaks high school | the lancer

INTRAMUR-ALL-STARS

The dream of a handful of TO students, the Intramural Sports Sports club was a huge success in its first year on campus grow day by day. As each meeting passes, high schoolers show that the childhood spirit of playing dodgeball and kickball still lives and thrives.

Before there were more than 150 students watching the kickball championship during lunch on April 11, Hernandez was coordinating soccer games at lunch as a sophomore.

“

My goal for this club is for middle school kids to see that high school isn’t as scary as they think it is. And that they can have fun playing sports as well as in the classroom.

JOSE “QUESO” HERNANDEZ INTRAMURAL SPORTS CLUB PRESIDENT

PHOTO » COURTESY » TOHS INTRAMURAL SPORTS

VICTORY! — Junior Zach Reer celebrates after scoring the winning run in the intramural kickball matchup JAKE BRADLEY SPORTS EDITOR It was April 23, and Gabriel Torreblanca hit the shot of his life.

It was not CIF-sanctioned and did not count for any competitive league, but the enormous crowd that filled the TO football field erupted as Torreblanca celebrated with his team, the Hot Shots.

This is the vision Jose “Queso’’ Hernandez saw when he started the soccer club during lunch last year. It has since evolved into the Intramural Sports Club, and it continues to

“There was a lack of athletic clubs at TO during lunch,” junior Alan Ko told the Lancer. “Queso started the soccer club last year, and I have wanted to start an athletic lunch club since sophomore year.”

From there, Queso and four of his friends, now board members, decided to start up the Intramural Sports Club.

The first club meeting was at the tail end of January. It was announced that the opening sport would be dodgeball. The first game day soon followed on Feb. 1.

The game days went on and the number of fans increased, and on Leap Day, the day of the dodgeball championship, 170 students came out to watch. The Powdered Donuts brought home the dodgeball championship with senior Daniel Plascencia being named MVP of the game.

Soon after, it was announced that the next sport would be kickball. This took the campus by storm, catching the eye of numerous students who weren’t already going to the gym for the dodgeball games. The first kickball game-day came on March 11, and the format was simple, two divisions of teams, each team would play four games, two divisional and two nondivisional, and then the best of the best would move onto the

M LANCER S C O T

playoffs.

The playoffs consisted of four teams, and the championship would be exactly one month after opening day, the Ice Cubes, the dodgeball runners-up, were able to redeem themselves and take home the kickball title, backed by three-sport junior Zach Reer, who scored the run that earned victory, and the title, for his team.

The title game not only brought nearly 200 TO students, but the district superintendent, Dr. Mark McLaughlin, as well as the TO Acorn Newspaper to watch and support the kickball championship game.

Soccer will be the last intramural sport for this school year, but Queso and Ko look to bring bigger and better things to the club next school year.

“My goal for this club is for middle school kids to see that high school isn’t as scary as they think it is,” Hernandez said “And that they can have fun playing sports as well as in the classroom.”

PHOTO » COURTESY » TOHS INTRAMURAL SPORTS

KICKED OFF — Junior Jack Steinberg attempts to “tag” junior Ray Acosta in intramural kickball

Lancers sound off on what would a live mascot bring to the TO athletics program

COLE HOWARD & CORY MCENROE

THE LANCER STAFF

From the Philly Phanatic to Benny the Bull, mascots have played an energizing role in bringing an exciting atmosphere to any game they rally around.

The first mascot was Yale’s “Handsome Dan” in 1892, an English Bulldog that brought a fierce and winning attitude to the team’s football games.

At TO, the oldest high school in the Conejo Valley, we could benefit from having a mascot at our football games and other athletic events.

“I think it’s a huge energy booster,” Lancer sophomore and football starting quarterback Jackson Taylor said. “It kind of gives that college football vibe because when you think of college football and college sports, you think of mascots, cheerleaders and hyped environments that make it feel like a lively sport.”

TO already boasts the biggest and most influential student cheering section in the area — the vaunted Green Hole — but even leaders of the group believe a mascot would provide a boost.

“A mascot could make the Green Hole way more exciting, especially during the dull moments,” senior Green Hole leader Emily Bryant said. “(It would) hype everyone up. I believe the mascot could become an icon for the Green Hole.”

Principal Dr. Eric Bergmann supports the idea of a live mascot — Larry the Lancer, perhaps? — especially if student support is behind the idea.

“It depends on the overall support of the school — it’s not really a decision I am going to make on my own — but if ASB says this is something we want to look at and the rest of the student body supports it, I would absolutely be supportive,” Dr. Bergmann said. w

PHOTO » TYLER LAPPIN » THE LANCER

CRITICAL MASS-COT — Students support a new live Lancer mascot Bergmann does not believe there is a connection between having a mascot to pump up the crowd and success on the field, but he does believe it would enhance the student body experience. “(Does it) benefit athletes? Not directly. I’ve worked at schools where there have been mascots, and I don’t think there is any connection to athletes on the field or the court,” he said.

“Where you would get the benefit is obviously them hyping up the crowd, and obviously a more excited crowd would support the athletes. But the mascot themself, (there) would be no change.”

Bergmann does offer a word of caution.

“I’ve also worked at schools where there has been a mascot where they just put on the costume and went out

there and stood, and it was almost a joke,” he said. “It became kind of a running joke, so if we did have a mascot, and ASB wanted to go that route, we would have to make sure that the person wearing the costume was animated and they knew how to do a good job.”

If a Green Hole leader or ASB member would step up to be the Lancer mascot, they could help the crowd in leading chants and cheers and energizing the once lively student section of TO. “It would be a cooler home environment and it would make it tougher for other teams that have to deal with crowd that is more joined together by something,” Taylor said. “It would make it more loud in our favor. As the crowd goes, the players naturally seem to go. If the crowd is hyped, it gives that high stakes environment.”

SPORTS | 15

Senior Issue | JUNE 6, 2024

SWIM WINS FIRST C.I.F. TITLE A late surge in relays helps propel the Lancers to championship

CELEBRATING

STUNT

PHOTO » COURTESY » STUNT TEAM

HUDDLING UP — The Lancer stunt team congregates to discuss strategy at a league meet this year PHOTO » COURTESY » AUSTIN GREGORY

WE’RE NO. 1 — The Lancers sink their teeth into their medals after winning CIF RILEY BROWN THE LANCER STAFF The TO swim team was down six points with one event left in the CIF championships, and the pressure was on.

With one relay race to go, the goal was simple: All they had to do was not get disqualified.

“If we got ninth place in the championship final we still would’ve beaten them, but our kids did not care and swam their best race of the season,” assistant coach Austin Gregory told the Lancer. “They got first place by 10 seconds in that final event.”

This push in the final race of the season propelled the Lancers all the way from the six-point deficit into a 38-point lead, clinching TO’s first CIF section championship.

While Gregory and head coach Craig Rond were on the edges of their seats, the boys swim program, composed primarily

FROM PAGE 13

PHOTO » TYLER LAPPIN » THE LANCER

TWO-SPORT STAR — Ivy Williams wasn’t just one of the leaders of the Lancer soccer team but a leader for girl’s flag football

of water polo players, was able to make school history.

“That’s just the new culture in aquatics for us,” Gregory said of embracing multisport athletes. “Last year, there were about four or five water polo players on the boys side that did swim team as well, whereas this year, every single water polo player for the boys side, except two, did swim team.”

The team atmosphere not only carried the program to the CIF Finals, but to the championship itself. ”It was really satisfying,” said Keith Warner, who also serves as a water polo team captain. “I was in two different relays, and they are the biggest point scorers -- for the relay, you get double points -- so I was really happy to be a part of the 200 medley and contribute. But it really adds to a team (when) everyone swims harder when they are individual events because everyone is relying on you.”

The buy-in towards the

CONTINUING

Ivy Williams “I think it actually helped us that the girls were younger because they’re so open to new ideas, and they’re so flexible, and they look up to you,” Williams said.

She credits not only her talent, but the talent and drive of her teammates for such an amazing season.

It’s always been a dream for Williams to play soccer at the collegiate level, and “senior year definitely re-sparked some admiration to play in college,” Williams said.

“Sometimes [playing is] just okay and you feel a little burnout,” she added, “but this senior season was so good that it just reminded me of the love I have for the game.”

Throughout her career, Williams has had to learn what it takes to be a good athlete. One thing she reminds herself of is that “mistakes aren’t the end of the world and everything happens for a reason,” Williams said.

“If you make a mistake, you keep playing. The world’s not gonna stop because you made a mistake or you did something good. It just keeps going, no one’s stopping for you. I think the main thing is just to keep going and persevere through anything that happens on the field.”

aquatics program has this year’s CIF title looking as just the start.

“Coach Rond’s message this year is that you can do hard things, and (we) showed the kids that it’s possible to do club water polo and swim all in one day and still do homework at the end,” Gregory said.

For the TO coaches, watching the Lancers celebrate was a reward in itself.

“The way the pool was set up, the athletes were below coach and I, and we were on top and just everybody celebrating,” Gregory said. “I wish you could see that moment that en-captures just how excited we were that we had won.”

And for the Lancer swimmers themselves, it is a memory they’ll never forget. “(It was) pretty sick honestly, just hearing that TO won on the loudspeakers and getting our place and all it’s pretty unreal, honestly,” senior Thomas McDonough said. “But (we were) blessed to be able to experience it.”

FROM PAGE 13 The Lancer: What were the moments that made you realize that running is something you love?

Kajita: “The first year was a little tough, it was a little weird too because it was Covid, but I’d say maybe sophomore year, even though I was injured for most of that year. I guess last year, then, I sort of was able to see all of my hard work finally come to fruition with good times and pretty strong races and all of that. But that sort of was like a signal like, ‘Hey you’re like really good at this, you could actually do something with this. So I’d say junior year.”

The Lancer: What’s your favorite memory from TO? Kajita: “Probably when we did the Clovis invitational this year or probably state this year as well.

Just because with both of those, we got to go somewhere and stay the night and then run later. Probably those, too, just because it was a lot of fun just driving out there and then on top of that getting to race, being able to see the course, because it’s actually a really nice course.”

The Lancer: What made you choose UC Davis?

CONTINUING

Cassidy Kajita

KAILAH SPENCER THE LANCER STAFF Stepping into the blue and orange gym, the Lancers had one goal – to win.

The suspense built more with each passing second as we went into overtime at Westlake, sealing this season as one to remember. When the referee pointed his hand at our opponents, awarding them the final tie-breaking point, our team felt disappointment, but it also encouraged us to work even harder for our next meet.

As the season continued, our team continued to progress and win meets. Then the season came to a close with a loss against our rival, Newbury Park.

Though the season may not have ended exactly how the team wanted it to, we all recognize the work we put in individually, and as a whole, as well as all the accomplishments we made.

This was my first year stunting ever, and with the help of my coaches and teammates, every practice was an opportunity for me to enhance my skills a little bit more, bringing me to the point I’m at now.

I never took for granted any time I was in the air, and I tried to learn something new each time I flew.

Not only have I improved as a flyer, but Stunt has also helped me really understand sportsmanship and what it means to be an athlete. Whether I was losing my voice as I cheered my teammates on from the sidelines or I was performing on the mat myself, I learned to always enjoy the game, regardless of the score. ured, ‘Hey, I really like this place and I want to see myself here.’”

PHOTO » COURTESY » CASSIDY KAJITA

RUNNING WILD — Cassidy Kajita distances herself from the competition Kajita: “It was mostly between UC Davis and UC Irvine, but since I’m an environmental major, I decided Davis has a much stronger environmental program, and I just really like the campus. I visited both, and Irvine has arguably much better weather than Davis, but something about Davis just kind of clicked when I went there, so I fig-

The Lancer: What was the process of getting recruited/ scholarship?

Kajita: “With Irvine, they actually reached out to me, but with all the other colleges I tried, like UC San Diego and UC Davis, UC San Diego I didn’t really contact them too much, but with UC Davis, then I actually emailed them along with like a bunch of other colleges, being like ‘Hey, I’m Cassidy, this is my time, please let me on your team please.’”

The Lancer: Were there moments where you didn’t feel like continuing or felt like giving up?

Kajita: “There were definitely a few races where it’s just like, ‘Why am I here? Why am I doing this sport?’ I think it was my sophomore year, I was getting back from an injury and it was just like such a huge gap in skill that you need to make up, so much ground you need to make up, that the first few races were definitely having me question why am I doing this, why did I choose this sport. But once you get past that, honestly it gets, not necessarily easier, but definitely a lot more fun.”

16 | BACK PAGE

thousand oaks high school | the lancer

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KnWh o

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u Yotter?

From Havarti to history, Lancers embark on an adventure they’ll never forget

THE SUBJECT THE BEST FRIEND Max Oppenheimer

Matthew Fisher

THE GIRLFRIEND Grace Hunter

Favorite shoe brand?

Nike

Nike

Nike

Favorite pizza topping?

PHOTO » COURTESY » MADDY GEISLER

Pepperoni

EURO ADVENTURES — TOHS history students leap for joy while recreating iconic movie star poses in front of Big Ben ALYSSA KISZCZAK MANAGING EDITOR The scary sight of the most monstrous cheese you can imagine was sitting in the display case, calling their names.

The stench was wretched, like the whiff of dirty feet and locker room armpits after a long day of football practice. Some were intimidated by the smell and would probably have thrown up if they had a bite, but the long hairy texture was the worst part.They say that there is nothing more memorable than a smell, but this group of Lancer students were scurrying to get the strong scent out of their noses.

History teacher Ryan Geisler’s trip to Europe will create memories that they will never forget. Cheese-tasting included.

Every year, TO offers an international trip during Spring Break, allowing students to learn about some of the area’s most historical landmarks. Geisler’s group of students embarked on a 10-day trip to Paris and Normandy, France, as well as London, England. Although three of the days were technically travel days, they still had plenty of time to see what these countries have to offer.

“Paris and London are awesome because of the various histories that you can see through the ages,” Geisler said. “But I liked the Normandy region just because I am very interested in World War

II history. Getting to go to Pointe du Hoc and stand at the top of the cliffs that the army rangers tried to take. Being able to see Omaha beach, the German guns and all the dugouts, and just being able to walk where history happened, is pretty amazing.”

“

I only knew two people going forward and by the end of the trip, we were kind of like a little family which was really fun.

We also became good friends with a group of kids from Tennessee and now we all stay in touch.

A lot of new friendships and memories have been formed because of this opportunity we had.

MADDY GEISLER JUNIOR

The trip allowed students to make their own decisions without parental involvement.

These can include going through customs, show their passports, ordering food despite a language barrier, deciding how to use free time and using public transportation.

Another benefit to this trip was the social aspect. Spending 24 hours a day for a whole week with people they may not know all too well means, by the end of the trip,

new friendships were made.

“I only knew two people going forward and by the end of the trip, we were kind of like a little family which was really fun,” said junior Maddy Geisler, who is also Mr. Geisler’s daughter. “We also became good friends with a group of kids from Tennessee and now we all stay in touch. A lot of new friendships and memories have been formed because of this opportunity we had.”

From trying stinky cheese and late-night Uno games to recreating movie poses, they will always remember these events as part of their Spring Break Europe trip.

“I would tell someone debating on going on a trip like this to totally do it,” junior Aubrey Naranjo said. “It is such a great opportunity, and we get to do so much each day. We all learned so much and got to hang out with people we didn’t even know.”

For Mr. Geisler, bringing his teachings to life made for an unforgettable experience.

“The students were able to see a lot of what we talk about in class, either in World History or US history,” he said. “We got to see the Normandy and D-Day experience but we also got to see a lot of French Revolution history and post-French Revolution with Napoleon. Being able to see those things and experience them firsthand is far greater than anything a teacher can give in a classroom.”

What’s up and what’s down with The Lancer?

We list the hits and misses of the month.

Compiled by Alyssa Kiszczak

Although the DJ played controversial music at prom, the quick bite food options and chocolate chip cookies were the students faves!

Pepperoni

Pepperoni

Goldfish or Cheez-its?

Cheez-its

Goldfish

Goldfish

Dream job?

Pro Golfer

Pro Golfer

Pro Golfer

Hosted by ALYSSA KISZCZAK

Every Lancer Has a Story If you were a dog, what dog breed would you want to be and why?

If you were to win a million dollars, what would you want to do?

If you could jump into a pool full of anything, what would it be?

FRANCO KING

JOHN TURK

LUC FORKIN

“I would want to be a Cane Corso because they are just absolutely beautiful, strong, big and they are just the best.”

“I would buy a Porsche 9/11 because that’s my dream car, and then I would have like $900k left, so I would buy a vacation home.”

“I would probably jump into a pool full of money because you know I would have lots of money available to take.”

Everyone’s favorite, Dr. Pepper, just came out with a new flavor, “Creamy Coconut.” Really Dr. Pepper?

What kind of name is that?

Zach Bryan visits the Staple Center, performing his “Quittin’ Time” tour! We are jealous of everyone who attended.

North West takes on Broadway, acting as Simba and performing “I Just can’t Wait To Be King.”

Some say she ate, others say she got eaten.