Volume 28 Issue 2

c o p p e l l s t u d e n t m e d i a . c o m Volume 28 | Issue 2 | November 2016

THE

GREAT

Divide CHS casts its votes for the next president PAGES 12-13 INSIDE Homecoming Royals

A major step forward

Non-profit goals

Newly decided king and queen surprise all PAGE 4

Only female drum major shares her experience in music PAGE 10

Manandhar gives gift of soccer to Nepali community PAGE 23

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november 2016

TEACHER OF THE ISSUE

Rasch brightens up classroom with passion for math, personalized instruction written by Emma Cummins Executive Editorial Page Editor @emma_cummins_ Passion guides our lives. It is what makes us human and what we will spend all our lives trying to understand.

For Coppell High School Algebra II teacher Ivan Rasch, that oh-so elusive passion was apparent to him when he was just a third grader.

“When I was in third grade, my teacher asked me what I wanted to do,” Rasch said.

“I did not hesitate to tell her I wanted to teach. That has never changed. Never.”

That passion makes its way into the classroom every day. “[Rasch] was one of the most caring, attentive teachers I’ve ever had,” CHS junior Emily Han said. “He would always open his classroom to me as a positive learning environment and help me with whatever I needed assistance on.”

This can be attributed to Rasch’s classroom style. He always makes sure to have a personal interaction with his students and make sure they are learning how to learn,

rather than just learn.

“Mr. Rasch makes sure that he understands every student that he has in the classroom so he can teach in such a way that he’s not only teaching the class as a whole, but he’s reaching every individual student by incorporating different interests, different learning styles and just different ways that people learn based on their experiences,” International Baccalaureate math teacher Ian Vanderschee said.

The decision to choose to teach was easy for Rasch, but the decision to teach math was even easier.

“One of the things that I like about teaching math is getting to the point where my students say, ‘ah, I understand that makes sense,’” Rasch said. “There really is no bigger reward than getting a student to see something that well. To say, ‘OK that’s not hard, I can do that.’ That’s what I live for each day.”

Rasch will continue to bring his passion and personal commitment to each and every student who walks into his classroom with a smile on his face, ready for the challenge of a new day.

photo by Hannah

Tucker

Coppell High School Algebra II teacher Ivan Rasch knew he wanted to be math teacher since the third grade. “One of the things that I like about teaching math is getting to the point where my students say, ‘Ah, I understand that makes sense,’” Rasch said.

New, returning voters head to polls early for shorter lines, to show support for candidates

photo by Amanda

written by Farah Merchant Staff Writer @farahmerchant_ As early voting opened on Oct. 24, voting booths lined the inside of Coppell’s Town Center building. Voting began at 7 a.m. and citizens of Coppell were eager to place their vote for their candidate early.

Voters waited in a short line inside the building to cast their vote, using their voice in a decision that will help determine the future of this nation.

Hair

Waiting in line to cast her vote was Coppell High School senior Amanda Moehlis.

Moehlis is a first time voter who stood excitedly, not expecting the response she received when she stepped up to the booth.

“I walked in and I waited maybe five minutes in line,” Moehlis said. “Then I handed a man my voter’s registration card.

He got me checked in and asked if I was a first time voter, and I said yes. He then shouted, ‘Everyone we have a first-time voter.’ And everyone cheered for me.”

Moehlis, who turned 18 on Oct. 21, was

able to make the deadline, Oct.11, to vote in this election.

“This election is the first election I am able to vote in and I believe that we, as American citizens, should exercise our right to vote,” Moehlis said. “I don’t think there’s any point in waiting.”

Voters in the state of Texas are swarming to the polls. Many just want to save time; others feel like they cannot wait until Nov. 8 for their voice to be heard.

Coppell resident Ben Stevens cast his vote on Oct. 24 for Republican nominee Donald Trump. “[Trump exhibits] integrity,” Stevens said. “Hillary Clinton doesn’t display that to me at all particularly with regards to to servicemen since I’m an ex-military man.

That was one of the issues with me. Lots of questions about the Clinton Foundation, the money, the email fiasco going on right now. It just seems like she’s a robot saying a script.

“Donald Trump’s not the perfect candidate but if you have to choose between both of them then that’s the one I choose.”

He decided to cast his vote early and

when asked why his response was simple: “I don’t like waiting in line,” Stevens said Another voter expressing similar reasons for voting early was CHS economics and psychology teacher Jared Stansel.

“I hate lines,” Stansel said. “Lines are my biggest pet peeve. Last time I voted in the Presidential Election, I waited for the day of and stood in line for two hours. My goal this year is to avoid that.”

Coppell voters have location options for early voting: North Lake College, North Lake Comm Lib Bldg L; 5001 N. MacArthur Blvd. in Irving.

Coppell Town Center; 255 Parkway Blvd.

Valley Ranch Library; 401 Cimarron Trail in Irving.

Check out the early voting locations in Dallas County

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MINORITIES REACT CHS seniors express viewpoints on 2016 election season written by

Sakshi Venkatraman Executive News Editor @OomPaPa1

Trump has also made references to “the blacks” and their ‘generally dilapidated state of living’ throughout his campaign and referred to a black Trump supporter as “my African American”.

“It makes me mad,” CHS senior Alex Eason said. “Just because I’m a minority doesn’t mean that I’m not a person. To me, I get angry because the way that he refers to African Americans. In the last debate, he talked about improving inner cities. Not all black people live in inner cities, he’s perpetuating a stereotype and I don’t know if I can have someone in office knowing that he doesn’t value me as both a woman and a minority.”

Beginning in December 2015, the reality star-turned-presidential candidate shook the loyalties of the Republican party when he

announced his plan to ban Muslim immigration into the United States post-San Bernardino, Calif. shooting. Later in the election cycle, he cleared up that the ban would only be temporary until “we figure this thing out”.

However, several Muslims have come forward since, saying Trump’s rhetoric alone poses challenges to their community by validating the Islamophobic tendencies of many. “[Trump’s rhetoric] has made me a lot more afraid of what’s going to happen on Nov. 8,” CHS senior Diversity Club president Naureen Wajahat said. “If Donald Trump actually gets elected, will my life change; will I have to leave the country; will I not be safe at home?

“I feel like a lot of people have

their feelings validated by him.

Because he’s saying these things, people feel like they can act on their feelings. It’s good that other politicians, not just Democrats, even his own vice presidential

‘‘

his campaign, he threatened to undo civil protections like the Obergefell v. Hodges ruling that made same-sex marriage legal.

However, Trump’s stance on the issue of gay marriage began

Just because I’m a minority doesn’t mean that I’m not a person.

Alexandria-Elizabeth Eason, senior pick, are coming forward and saying that his statements are divisive.”

When Trump began his campaign, his stance on LGBT civil rights was similar to most other Republican politicians. Early in graphic by Austin

Banzon

‘‘

Throughout the 2016 election season, Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton and Republican nominee Donald Trump have utilized minority status to the advantage of their individual campaigns.

The two candidates have grappled for the minority vote since the beginning of the election cycle.

For Trump, this manifests itself in the form of divisive rhetoric that some have deemed “fear-mongering”. In early June, when Trump’s “great wall” along the U.S.-Mexican border took shape as the cornerstone of his campaign, he referred to Mexican immigrants as “rapists”, a statement that has been used against him time and time again by his opponent.

to evolve after the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando.

“At his rallies, [Trump] is starting to bring up how he supports the gays and the gays love him,” said a gay CHS senior, who wished to remain anonymous.

“It’s kind of upsetting that he’s so wishy-washy. Make it clear if you’re going to be for or against us because we’ve been struggling for so long.

“I also hate how Trump is making it look like he wants to protect the sanctity of marriage when he gets divorced so often.”

However while many minority groups fear a Trump presidency and are throwing their support towards Clinton, some CHS seniors question her history and likeability.

“Hillary Clinton hasn’t been the most likable compared to Barack Obama,” Wajahat said.

“But when you compare her to Trump it’s like a different playing field. People shut her out because they think she represents the corrupt nature of politics.”

Senior Jia Lou has a hard time aligning herself with Clinton.

“I guess you could say I’m with her because I’m not with him,” Lou said. “When [Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders] dropped out of the race, I knew there was no way I could support Donald Trump. I guess it’s by default that I have to vote Hillary.

You have to take everything career politicians say with a grain of salt, but she is infinitely more qualified than Trump.”

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november 2016

Coppell High School senior Rohina Aslam accepts her position as homecoming queen during halftime of the football game on Sept. 30. Aslam was the first homecoming queen nominee that wears a hijabi.

photos by Amanda Hair Coppell High School senior Marcus Garza accepts his position as homecoming king during halftime of the football game on Sept. 30. Football captain and senior Eric Loop initially won, but anointed Garza in his place.

Aslam provides inspiration to all when Loop wins homecoming king, gives claiming homecoming queen crown position to Garza in act of kindness written by Farah Merchant Staff Writer @farahmerchant_ Senior Rohina Aslam could not believe what was happening. A few weeks ago, her friends nominated her for fun, and now she was being announced 2016 Coppell High School homecoming queen.

“At first, I didn’t know because my friends got together and nominated me,” Aslam said. “I didn’t think I would actually get nominated, but then I did. I didn’t know how to feel, because I didn’t understand what it meant. After I realized that it was actually a big deal, it felt good.”

Unlike previous homecoming queens, Aslam wears a hijab – a garment worn by Muslim women outside of their home. It covers the head and chest, and represents modesty, privacy and morality.

Aslam was notified of her nomination when she received an email and was called to the commons to be congratulated. However, though Aslam was glad to have received this nomination, she was hesitant, and felt self-conscious about standing out.

But when it came time to accept the nomination, she knew it was a big deal and would affect not only herself but others around her and in this school. “[My friends] were joking around at the beginning saying that I represent four minorities: Indian, female, hijabi and I’m Muslim. That’s a pretty big reason of why

I accepted the nomination,” Aslam said. “I think it’s really important for other people, underclassmen, to know that it’s fine to be whoever you want, because people will accept just the way you are.”

Student Council advisor Jennifer Flores appreciates of the growing diversity and open-mindedness at CHS. “Our population here at CHS is not what it is at other schools; we have a very diverse campus,” Flores said. “The stereotype of your typical homecoming queen is being shattered, so to speak, here especially since our homecoming court is so diverse here.”

Flores thinks a homecoming queen like Aslam can open doors for high school minorities.

“With [Aslam] representing so many different minority groups that it’s going to open up the eyes of the students at school, and maybe make some students who thought that they couldn’t participate or be on homecoming court more comfortable to be able to step out of their comfort zone and be a little more involved on campus,” Flores said.

Senior Eric Loop, who was voted 2016 homecoming king, agrees with Flores about the positive impact of Aslam’s accomplishment.

“In the future, it really opens the door for whoever wants to be nominated,” Loop said. “I think that they can be. It breaks down a lot of barriers, maybe unwritten rules that have been written in the past.”

written by Jessica Jun Staff Writer @jesse_jun16 He stepped out onto the field, heart pounding against his chest as he awaited the announcement he had been looking forward to for weeks. The stadium silenced as Coppell High School Principal Mike Jasso lifted his microphone and announced a name. In one moment, Eric Loop’s name was called. But in the next, the hat and sash were placed on Marcus Garza.

The band, families in the back and entire student section gave a standing ovation as they realized what was happening. After initially winning the crown, CHS senior football captain Eric Loop had anointed senior Marcus Garza Coppell’s 2016-2017 homecoming king.

“I was shocked when I first heard that I was a nominee for homecoming king and I actually didn’t even expect to be in it at all, [much less] win it,” Garza said. “I was so surprised when they gave the victory to me.”

Though the title was initially his, Loop placed the hat and sash on Garza and cheered for him with the rest of the crowd.

“His reaction was priceless,” Loop said. “I went to Mr. Jasso, got the crown and knew how much Marcus wanted it so I turned around and put it on his head. He was in shock at first, but we gave each other a big hug and the crowd went crazy. He’s just a

great and special person and such a light to other people and he definitely deserved it.”

Escorting Marcus on the field Friday night, Ramiro Garza was touched to see his little brother accept the crown for homecoming king.

“It’s not something that happens to everyone or often at all,” Ramiro said. “Marcus had really hoped that he’d get it and that day, Marcus had the biggest smile I’d ever seen.”

Standing directly next to Loop and Garza on the field, senior homecoming queen Rohina Aslam was also moved by the scene.

“I think he cried because he was so happy and all of the girls on the court just started tearing up,” Aslam said. “It was really emotional and heartwarming to hear the crowd chant his name as he threw his hands up in victory and pure happiness.”

While many were heart warmed at the scene on the field, students in the stands were also inspired by this unexpected event.

“We were all really supportive and it was so touching,” CHS senior Devika Godbole said. “It’s just good to know that there’s still so many kind people and it inspired me to think about others more.”

Beyond inspiration, this event has developed a new, deeper meaning behind homecoming and CHS for everyone.

“What happened [at the game] honestly just embodies what the homecoming court, homecoming and the spirit of high school should be about,” Aslam said.

THE SIDEKICK

november 2016 photo by Amanda

Hair

Voters Rewind Community recounts experiences of past elections

ictory against rivals

CHS Band wins Plano East Invitational, UIL regional to proceed to State written by Tanya Raghu Staff Writer @tanya_raghu

Almost halfway into the competitive marching season, the Coppell High School Band performs weekly at football games, participates in marching competitions on the weekends and practices every day during their class period in order to constantly improve themselves.

On Oct. 15, the band travelled to Plano East High School to compete in the annual Plano East Marching Invitational.

Coppell High School’s highly acclaimed marching band took second place, tying with the esteemed Marcus High School band in the music caption.

“When we tied with Marcus for music, we were definitely shocked but we were happy to see that the amount of time we invested paid off,” junior flute section member Chini Lahot said. “It also gave us encouragement to put more effort into our finals performance.”

Coppell came out on top in the Color Guard caption, surpassing many distinguished band programs. “[The Plano East Invitational] gave [the judges] an opportunity to see [the show] now and offer their commentary, likes and dislikes, and their preferences, that way moving forward from there, it will help us develop our show,” band director Gerry Miller said.

The band chose to attend the Plano East Invitational because they will potentially compete against many of the bands present at the competition during the future area or state rounds. Tying Marcus High School, the reigning Class 6A state champion, is one of the band’s defining moments so far

this season.

“Coppell has never been in the same competitive level as [Wakeland and Marcus] so for them to be compared to them and also surpass them at a competitive level was a pretty big shock and really good moment for the students to know that their hard work has been paying off,” color guard director Matthew Rummell said.

After winning the UIL marching sweepstakes award, Coppell is scheduled to compete for the UIL Area B 6A title back at Pennington Field on Oct. 29.

During the UIL Regional round on Tuesday night at Pennington Field, Coppell earned the sweepstakes award, advancing them to the area round.

“I thought we would be in the top three, I think watching all the shows and being familiar with what is going on, it was pretty right on,” Miller said.

In preparation for area, the directors are now looking to clarify details, refine the show and successfully add the last minute of performance onto the show.

“We are making sure that it is as in sync as possible and that every kid is doing their job every single count of the show,” Rummel said.

For Rummel, the result of the Plano East Invitational caught him by surprise solely because of the high level of the competing programs.

“The kids were over the moon, they were really excited, getting to hear their name called out on the loudspeaker in front of thousands of people and being told that they won the guard caption, that was a really cool moment for them,” Rummell said. “The whole band actually cheered really loud for the color guard which was also a very unifying moment for them.”

Texas Gubernatorial Election

1976

“There was a lot of bad feelings in the country about how Jimmy Carter, the former president had handled the [Iranian hostage crisis]. I was young, about 12, and I remember not being scared, but being concerned and frustrated. ‘How can this be happening to America? This is America.

This doesn’t happen to us.’ We were ready for change in leadership as a country. And President Reagan came in and delivered a lot of inspiring rhetoric speeches. He made us believe we had strength again.”

-Coppell High School Principal Mike Jasso

Bill Clinton vs. George H.W. Bush

1992

“In 1975, I was in the Army with the U.S. in Vietnam, to fight the Communists.

I came here to the U.S. in 1998 as a refugee. In Vietnam the government looked at me like a second citizen. Because they have too many people. It’s not like the U.S. They looked at me like the enemy. I didn’t have the right for anything. There was only one party, the Communist Party and they had the power to rule in Vietnam. But when I became a U.S. Citizen, I had the right to vote. I wanted to use my right to vote for president. So 2008 was the first time I went to vote and I voted for [John McCain]. I felt happy. I was proud.”

-Coppell High School janitor Tien Bui

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written by Meha Srivastav Social Media Manager @theofficialmeha

“I don’t even remember who I voted for. But I remember the long lines, and my dad- he just wanted to be there for my first election. I was the fourth of five children but he still made it a ceremony, every time one of us turned 18. And I was so excited.

People cared back then. It was very Democratic and Republican.The candidates used to stand up, list their qualifications and tell the people why they should vote for them. But now, it’s all just bashing each other. When I think of the elections before, I think of my dad, because he passed away.

And I think of how excited everyone was.

That’s gone away too.”

-Coppell Mayor Karen Hunt

Ronald Reagan vs. Jimmy Carter

1980

“That election was nothing like this election. It wasn’t as hostile or as nasty or unpleasant. But the 1980s and the 1990s were tough for America. And so I was a little disillusioned with the way the country was going. I wasn’t a big fan of either of the candidates. So I wrote in Vern Eden, the [former] principal of [Coppell Middle School West]. It was my way of being a bit of a rebel and pushing back against the establishment. But I felt proud of myself because I could have not voted. But I did. I exercised my right to vote.”

-Coppell High School AP United States History teacher Diane DeWaal

John McCain vs. Barack Obama

2008

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november 2016

EDITORIAL

CASTING VOTE DOES NOT DEFINE YOU This election year many things are different; the most glaring difference is how personal someone’s politics have become.

It seems like placing your vote in that ballot box says more about your character than anything else ever could.

A vote for Donald Trump or a vote for Hillary Clinton seems to carry with it a personal reflection of who you are. The host of stereotypes associated with each candidate are overwhelming and are especially negative this election cycle. While your vote does reflect what you believe in, to a certain extent, it is never the whole story.

This country is incredibly divided and this election cycle has only stoked the flames. If you vote for Donald Trump, you have to be a racist, xenophobic white person. If you vote for Hillary Clinton, then you have to be a misinformed supporter of the corrupt establishment.

This type of generalization is harmful and divisive. A vote for either candidate does not mean the voter has to be just like their chosen candidate. A vote for Trump may be a way to stop Clinton, or vice versa. In America, who you vote for is a serious matter.

While your vote may not make the difference between your state being red or blue, it should still hold high value.

When you go into that ballot box, your conscious, culture, values and personality go with you. All of these components cannot be summed up into one derogato-

EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP

Staff Cartoonist

Adviser

Thomas Rousseau

Editor-in-Chief

BUSINESS LEADERSHIP

Meara Isenberg

Communications Manager

Chase Wofford Executive Sports Editor

Marcus Krum

Executive News Editor

Sakshi Venkatraman Executive Editorial Page Editor

Emma Cummins

Executive Enterprise Editor

Joseph Krum

EDITORIAL LEADERSHIP Student Life Editor

Lili Lomas Entertainment Editor

Kathryn Rudd General Photography Editor

Kelly Monaghan Sports Photography Editor

Amanda Hair

Aubrie Sisk Business Manager

Chelsea Banks Co-Social Media Manager

Lina Pyon Co-Social Media Manager

Meha Srivastav

STAFF WRITERS Gracie Blackwell Sruthi Boppuri Rachel Choi Riley Galloway Elena Gillis Sofia Guerrero Saira Haque

ry group. Maybe you have voted for one party consistently your whole life, or your family has. Can we blame you for going into this cycle having some loyalty to your political party?

There are always the universally distasteful supporters for each candidate, and while that may seem to be happening more often in this cycle, let us not forget that to conflate that to the entire voting bloc of one candidate is both illogical and unfair. Â Our generation has evolved; we are willing to talk about politics.

Nowadays, it is not an inappropriate question to ask someone who they support in the election. However, the evolution stops there. We are willing to answer the initial question, but if you disagree with me, then I do not want to discuss it.

This rejection of open discussion only aggravates the problem. If

s om e one says he i s voting for Clinton, but is not willing to explain why, then the assumption is that he is a radical leftist who supports corruption and cronyism. If some-

Rutuja Joshi Jessica Jun Tara Kamalpour-Ansari Fiona Koshy Farah Merchant Akila Muthukumar Christie Nah Tanya Raghu Grant Spicer Briana Thomas Amelia Vanyo Kelly Wei Kathryn Wiener Reid Valentine

PHOTOGRAPHERS Ale Ceniceros Bren Flechtner Chloe Navarro Hannah Tucker

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Megan Winkle

DESIGNERS

Austin Banzon Wren Lee

one says he is voting for Trump without further explanation, then he has to deal with the assumption that he is a racist who hates women.

Whether you vote Republican or Democrat this election, do not forget that politics do not define a person.

Conflating the moral flaws of each candidate to their voters is close-minded and a hindrance to progress. Politics are just one part of our lives, which is something we forget during long presidential elections. How each person chooses to define themselves: their interests, pursuits and values matter more than who they vote for in the election.

So, we encourage that each person realize that their politics are simply that: politics. Being able to talk about why we vote the way we do is vitally important to the process of change and betterment. Whether you are someone who has strong opinions or not, respect the opportunity for each person to voice their opinion and do not be so quick to jump to conclusions.

The Sidekick is the student newspaper for Coppell High School and is published six times per school year.

The newspaper is a member of National Scholastic Press Association, Journalism Education Association, Columbia Scholastic Press Association and Interscholastic League Press Conference.

The editorials and columns presented in this paper reflect the views of their student writers and not Coppell High Schoool or Coppell Independent School District.

Adverstisements are sold as full, 1/2 page, 1/4 page and 1/8 page sizes in black and white or color.

The Sidekick welcomes all letters to the editor. Letters can be emailed to cwofford@coppellisd.com or delivered to the D115 newsroom at Coppell High School. A current email address and first and last name for the writer must be included for the letter to be considered for publication.

Contact The Sidekick: 214-496-6239 cwofford@coppellisd.com 185 W. Parkway Coppell, TX 75019

f

@CHSCampusNews @thesidekickcoppell @sidekick_sports @sidekicknews

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Redefining America Presidential election will not end us, but rather provide new perspectives

written by

Emma Cummins

Executive Enterprise Editor @Emma_Cummins_ So, Nov. 8 is upon us. Sigh. You are probably asking yourself doomsday questions or ruminating over the calamities that await.

Before you do so, take a second. We all have the tendency to think that each election is the election and holds our fate in the balance. However, let us not forget how incredibly resilient our country is. One election and one terrible candidate will not destroy the country.

That being said, as the next generation it is up to us to define the next decade of politics. Both Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump represent serious flaws in the system. Clinton reeks of the crony, corrupt politician culture in Washington and Trump is a morally corrupt egomaniac. The fact that both of these candidates made it this far is not a good sign.

This election will redefine us all; conservatives, Republicans, Democrats, liberals and the like will all be forced to take a hard look at what each label represents after this election. This election cycle is especially defining to our generation, since the terms we grew up with now may not mean the same thing.

I am sure we have all seen our parents, older siblings and older members of the family talk about the election cycle. It seems like more and more of us are being sucked into the identity politics of today. I see myself and my peers growing up in a society where we define each other by political, sexual and racial labels. No politician cares what you think about an issue, all they care about is what group you fall in and how that group usually votes.

It comes as no surprise then, that new movements like the alt-right and a resurgence in socialism pop up. For most, the desire to “burn it all down” is leaving a vacuum for new groups to be created.

This election cycle has had the worst representation when it comes to the millennial vote. Studies show that 23 percent of millennials prefer a giant meteor strike to either presidential candidate. Trump is polling devastatingly low numbers when it comes to young voters, and Clinton does not fare much better.

Democratic Senator Bernie Sanders

was the only presidential candidate who polled positive numbers when it came to the millennial vote. This may be due to the fact that 33 percent of young voters support socialism.

This information should scare you.

Although I do not agree with the general idea that this election will destroy our entire political system, I do think this is a defining moment for our nation. In the vacuum, what will we choose?

I propose that we choose ideas.

It is time for each person to think, actu-

ally think, about what they believe in, and why. It is not time to regress even further into the identity you chose this election.

We can either divide this country into more groups: black vs white, foreigner vs native, socialist vs capitalist; or we can define people by their ideas, not by where they come from or what they look like.

But, on a lighter note, if we end up choosing socialism as our solution to these cracks, then this election may truly be the end of us. graphic by Austin Banzon

The personality Factor Negative personalities affecting voters, mattering more this election cycle

written by Lina Pyon Social Media Manager @Linalinaapril Is personality the most important factor in choosing a presidential candidate ?

At first, I thought the obvious answer was no.

In a perfect world, the presidential candidates are all good people, in which their personality is not something of scrutiny, and the focus can be solely on their beliefs.

Unfortunately, it is not a perfect world and the candidates are far from perfect people. Yes, I would love to see the voters forming opinions based on what the candi-

dates stand for so that the candidates cannot manipulate the voters into bashing the other to boost themselves. But with Republican nominee Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton- we may have to look at just what I thought should be avoided- personality.

Personality is not everything, but this election has come to the point in which such harsh words are said to one another that we must look at what personality does represent. Why then are debates so important? Yes, policies are discussed, but debates are another platform in which the candidates make themselves look more suitable.

My favorite way to define this election is “outlier election”. We had someone like Democrat Bernie Sanders sparking the younger generation into the political world, Clinton the first female candidate to have come this far into the election and Trump who has vocalized polarizing opinions that many Americans agree with.

These candidates know that eyes are on them, and how they choose to portray themselves reveals what type of person

they want people to view them as.

We are choosing a representative and symbol for America, and this symbol cannot be chosen solely on their party or their policies because a person is beyond what he or she stands for but his or her actions, words, mindsets and how they treat others.

Leadership characteristics are not solely

based on beliefs, but on how one conducts him or herself.

In presidential elections we have the opportunity to evaluate the candidates; we need to take advantage of this opportunity and factor that into deciding who to vote for with candidates that are so different from past candidates.

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november 2016

vs.

TRUMP P E N C E MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN 2016

for the U.S.

photo by First Last Super duper cutline boss-ness. Make sure it’s edited by Woff, Amanda or Kelly. And it’s gotta be two sentences, people!

photo courtesy Hillary

for America

Clinton proves fit to lead the country

written by Rutuja Joshi Staff Writer @rutuja_joshi A concept ingrained in the United States’ name is dissipating more and more each day- unification. Our country has become starkly divided; what once unified people with the common goal of bettering the country for all is long gone.

The presidential candidates, Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton and Republican nominee Donald Trump, are divided policy-wise; however, only one has consistently proven to protect people of all beliefs and backgrounds under those policies.

Hillary Rodham Clinton is that candidate.

Slanderous adjectives have been plastered on Clinton - manipulative, dishonest and weak, to name a few. It is so easy to label candidates with such words without having substance. For example, many people put Clinton at fault for the deaths at Benghazi and call her corrupt in regards to the email scandal. Many of these people, however, do not actually know the details of the events.

Clinton took full responsibility for the lack of security in Benghazi. Immediately after, she apologized and called for increased military spending to prevent future blunders. This is what separates her from her opponent. Trump consistently holds himself above the concept of failure.

Furthermore, the infamous email scan-

dal is commonly associated when one utters the name “Clinton”. As secretary of state, Clinton sent a large amount of classified emails using her personal email. She unconvincingly stated that she did not realize that they were classified. She did, though, admit to the mistake and apologize. What needs to be established, though, is that further investigation found no federal laws broken.

Opposition continues to milk this situation to pull out any negatives they can from Clinton. Seemingly incapable of speaking pragmatically on policy, her opponent just speaks of her husband’s scandals and past mistakes more than her policies. This is politics, so nothing less can be expected from the other side. However, the case is closed and she is cleared.

What is interesting is how Clinton’s mistakes define her as corrupt and unfit to lead, while her opponent’s mistakes are disregarded as “oh, he is speaking his mind.” If Clinton dared to utter just a fraction of the things Trump has had the audacity to say, her career wouldn’t exist. The candidates are held at different standards and Clinton deserves the right to be seen as more than her mistakes. Even after the multiple misfortunes she has faced, she has gained the experience to remain strong in times of adversity.

Working for this position her entire life, Clinton is a human being who listens to and fights for all. I am not supporting her to solely keep Trump out of office. I am not supporting her because she is a female. I am supporting her because she is a respectable, qualified candidate who deserves to prove that she can lead this country and every individual in it.

This is why I am #WithHer.

photo by Thomas

Rousseau

Trump stands strong against scrutiny

written by Thomas Rousseau Staff Cartoonist @thomasrousseau0 Republican nominee Donald Trump is the best choice out of all the current running presidential candidates and I will be voting for him on Nov. 8.

Trump has had to fight equally as hard against the mainstream Republican Party and the Democratic Party and truly represents a man against the establishment.

The GOP pitted its best Conservatives against Trump and every single one lost fair and square. More recently, a mass of mainstream Republicans such as House Speaker Paul Ryan and Senator John McCain disavowed Trump publicly and even this had a less than substantial change in the polls.

The GOP has lost touch with the public and Trump has broken that stereotype, much to its dismay. While Texas Senator and former Presidential candidate Ted Cruz and others like him said, “I’m fighting for the Constitution,” repeatedly, Trump says, “I’m fighting for you.” That is what the American people needed so desperately to hear.

Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton is being advised on foreign policy by George Soros. Soros is an international billionaire who has made his billions manipulating currency and destabilizing nations. Clinton is the visible tip of the large, corrupt iceberg that promotes globalism and the self inter-

ests of the international elite such as Soros.

Clinton has adopted the Neoconservative ideology of military interventionism and will support more meaningless conflicts and senseless loss of life of American citizens. Trump seeks an end to much of these conflicts which have been spurred on by the establishment’s illogical hatred for the nuclear superpower Russia.

The mainstream media has shown its true colors in this election cycle as little more than a thinly disguised wing of the liberal, globalist agenda. Trump hit pieces and scandals are calculated, fabricated and pushed incessantly by the biased media corporations. Trump’s lack of support from these groups is his biggest endorsement yet.

Trump’s plan to secure the U.S.-Mexico border and enforce and tighten our laws on immigration has given a voice to Americans who have been pushed aside and put second when it comes to immigrants.

There is no evidence to show that uncontrolled, mass immigration has any benefits to a nation and Trump is the first step towards bringing that truth to the forefront of political discussion.

Clinton is the physical manifestation of corruption and greed. She has done more than enough to get anyone else put in prison for the same crimes. Clinton and the Department of Justice were documented to be in collusion to cover her crimes and she showed criminal intent in hiding her emails from Congress and the public. Trump’s campaign is about more than just the election or who is president. It is a referendum on American democracy. A simple decision between who is really in control of this nation, a corrupt establishment with wishes to usurp democracy, or the American people.

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THE SIDEKICK

november 2016

Reemergence of old trends Classic, kitsch items becoming the next hot trend for teens

written by Fiona Koshy Staff Writer @fionakoshy10 Questionable odors, grimy floors and overflowing shelves may be some of the stigmas that come to mind when thinking of thrift stores and vintage items. Nowadays, however, teens are proving these stereotypes wrong with their newfound interest in antiquated items.

Polaroid cameras, record players and typewriters are just some of the many items that have become popular among teenagers lately. Thrift and vintage stores are a haven when on the hunt for antiques like these, as they are homes to all sorts of unique items.

Antiques aren’t the only items that have resurfaced recently. Conveniently, many of today’s trendy pieces can be found in places as close as your parents closet.

Recently, past fashion trends have resurfaced, making it stylish to dress in ways similar to those of my parents or even grandparents. High tops, overalls and high waisted jeans are commonplace at school,

with accessories such as scrunchies and chokers also making an appearance.

Pop culture has played a big role in the revival of seemingly ancient items. From jukeboxes to vinyls, many antiques have become popular once again due to the influence of celebrities, movies, and other forms of media.

“The show ‘Mad Men’ really helped the typewriter sales,” said Robert Owen, owner of M’Antiques, an antique store in Bishop Arts District. “Especially with the generation up to about 35 [years old].”

While antiques may just as easily be purchased at the store or on Amazon, there is nothing like rummaging through piles of relics until finding that sought after item.

When I was young, I stumbled upon a box in our study and, overcome by curiosity, began unpacking it. Inside, I found a Spectra Polaroid camera, with a broken flash and tattered wrist strap. I immediately began taking pictures of everything in sight, fascinated by the images captured immediately onto film. It was magical.

My parents caught onto my interest, showing me pictures that they used to take on the camera. This was such a cool experience for me, looking at how my parents had captured memories in ways so different than we do today on digital cameras.

Discovering old items can create new hobbies. A record player could insight an interest in different music styles. A typewriter could encourage you to begin writing.

It seems like there is always something bigger and better around the corner, leaving perfectly functional items in the dust. Making use of old items encourages people to reuse items, rather than get rid of them.

Vintage items can be repurposed, with their owners finding their functionality in alternative ways. Crates once used for Coca-Cola becoming decorative planters, vinyl cases turning into wall art, and birdcages becoming candle holders are just some of the ways that antiques can be repurposed. Finding new ways to recover old items is truly an art, and it is a creative outlet for many.

photo by Fiona

Koshy Records, old pictures. and DVDs are sold at M’Antiques, an antique store in Bishops Arts District. Vintage items such as record players, polaroid cameras and typewriters are increasing in popularity with the current generation.

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THE SIDEKICK

november 2016

Pathan marches to the beat of her own drum with band leadership, academics written by Amelia Vanyo Staff Writer @ameliavanyo

The sun pierces the sky above her head, heat waves are so powerful they are nearly visible in the air. Still, even as the brightness blinds her, Coppell marching band’s only girl and only junior drum major Ashna Pathan, holds her head high through every rehearsal.

“Being able to affect people with music is such a powerful thing, but being able to do it with the rest of the band, who I consider to be like my extended family, is an even greater feeling,” Pathan said.

Being a drum major in the prestigious group is a trial within itself. The position is more than what meets the eye. Other than conducting the band during long, sweaty afternoon rehearsals, Pathan helps steer the band through odd jobs, testing her capabilities and boundaries while setting up equipment, or doing repairs- things she never saw herself doing.

Pathan is not the only junior drum major, but also the only girl drum major. While this may have posed difficult for some, Ashna and her peers, seniors Sam Wang, Kyle

Whiting and Rishav Rout, take on their work professionally and happily no matter the circumstances.

“Sam, Kyle and Rishav are such great people, and we have really worked well together as a team,” Pathan said.

The group support each other through practices, games and competitions.

“She never complains and does what needs to be done,” Whiting said.

Coppell band is notorious for being a high intensity program that can push students to both their physical and mental limits. Pathan takes it a step further.

As a junior, Pathan is in her first year in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. The program gives students a heavy workload in exchange for a high school diploma globally recognized for its credibility. This workload, much like band, is difficult to manage on its own; adding something else takes perseverance and strength unknown to many high school students.

“There are days where I barely get two hours of sleep.

But I’ve learned to take advantage of every second I have to get my homework done, and that really helps,” Pathan said.

For some, the workload Pathan takes on might simply be too much. For Pathan, it is simply part of who she is.

This dedication has paid off not only within Coppell, but throughout the Metroplex.

Pathan plays the clarinet in the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra’s Wind Symphony. When she was turned down at her first audition, she took the rejection as a detour rather than the end of a road.

“Whenever I set a goal for myself, not achieving it is not an option for me. Even if it takes longer than I first imagined it would, I take pride in never giving up on my goals and always working to achieve them,” Pathan said.

Now as a part of the Wind Symphony, she spends rehearsals reaping the rewards of her hard work.

“Her attention to detail and exemplary musicianship will carry her far,” Coppell band director Gerard Miller said of Pathan’s dedication to the art.

Pathan’s post-collegiate dream is to score films In college, she plans to double major in music composition and music education.

With enormous achievements behind her and even larger goals ahead of her, Pathan keeps her ego far from the elevation of the platforms on the football field.

“I like being such a small part of something so big. I think that’s really special,” Pathan said.

photos by Kelly

Monaghan

The Coppell High School marching band performs “Now I See,” their fall show at the football game on Oct. 21 at Buddy Echols Field. The performance includes “Amazing Grace,” “Savanah River Holiday,” “It Is Well” and “107 Steps.”

THE SIDEKICK

A Road

november 2016

to

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Success graphic by Thomas

Rousseau

Coppell teen CEO develops Irving car company “Metroplex Wheels and Tires”

F

written by Christie Nah Staff Writer @christieeenah9463

rom a typical Coppell High School junior to a successful CEO of his own car business, Waseem Atteyah and two of his close cousins, Ahmad Haj and Umar Aouda, opened the doors of their new business, Metroplex Wheels and Tires on Oct. 7.

The business began when Atteyah, Haj and Aouda came up with idea of selling and financing wheels and tires overnight. The process took only two months to formulate a plan, finding a place to rent, and getting proper paperwork completed to officially open their business. Costs and profits are evenly distributed between the three business partners.

“We used our savings,” Aouda said. “No loans, no parents, no nothing.”

The business sells a set of rims that ranges from cheap to costly prices depending on the brand of the wheel. It also supplies your cars with the choice of hundreds and hundreds of luxury styles of wheels and tires. “[The grand opening] was an absolute blast,” Atteyah said. “We had lots of customers coming in, trying to get quotes on wheels and tires. It was a day to remember.”

Twenty-three year-old University of Dallas student, Aouda, attends night class-

photos by Ale

Ceniceros

es in order to open the store in the mornings. Twenty year-old University of Texas at Arlington student, Haj, attends morning classes in order to manage the business in the afternoon till the store closes. After school, Atteyah helps facilitate the store as soon as school assignments are out of the way.

He recently decided to transfer from CHS to Turning Point at Victory Place@ Coppell, which allows students to work an accelerated pace academically to achieve a high school diploma. Atteyah often manages school and his work at the same time.

He also planned to graduate early to gain proper education in college and then focusing on his business.

Atteyah spent his childhood collecting Hot Wheels including varieties of rare vintage car models to trendy sports car models. Eventually, he began to have an obsession over cars which lead him to where he is today.

“I was inspired by his work,” CHS junior Sara Pulido said. “He used his strong passion to really turn things around for him. I envy that.”

He has changed the visions of many people with his efforts of creating a successful business at a very young age. He wishes to gain more awareness of his new company, also hoping to expand the business in the future.

Twenty year-old University of Texas at Arlington student, Ahmad Haj, helps Waseem Atteyah facilitate the store by organizing the prices of the different designs of the wheels and rims. Metroplex Wheels and Tires is located on 1218 N. Belt Line Rd in Irving and is open Monday through Saturday at 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

(Bottom left and right photos) Metroplex Wheels and Tires, located on 1218 N. Belt Line Rd., in Irving was created by Coppell High School junior Waseem Atteyah and his cousins.

Metroplex Wheels and Tires sells rims that range from cheap to costly, depending on the brand of the wheel.

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written by Meara Isenberg Editor-in-Chief @mearaannee It has been plastered on papers and television screens for months, crowded our Twitter feeds, been the topic of countless interesting (and occasionally uncomfortable) conversations. It has seen outrage and skepticism, but also curiosity and involvement, and on Nov. 8, the 2016 Presidential Election will finally see its end.

But before Election Day arrives and the conversation changes, The Sidekick wanted to hear the voice of Coppell High School.

Over two days, we conducted a Mock Presidential Election with questions ranging from “Who would you vote for?” to “Is it the same as your parents?”. Nearly 400 votes later, Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton emerged as the winner of the student popular vote.

What you will not see from the stats we collected, however, is how they voted, some covering their answers and neatly folding their ballots, others shouting their choice of candidate to a friend across the hall.

What you may not have seen is students, as a world of politics crashes in upon them, beginning to find their role in it; for the decision they will make now, or in four years.

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THE SIDEKICK

november 2016

A life-changing decision leaves the Kottapalli family with high expectations written by Jessica Jun Staff Writer @jesse_jun16 Standing outside of the large, new building, she absorbed the embodiment of Coppell High School. The thought of new teachers, new classrooms and new faces filled her head.

Mind racing and heart pounding, CHS freshman Shreya Kottapalli took a deep breath and opened the doors, taking her first step into the next four years that awaited her.

“My first day of high school was frightening because coming from a private school with around 30 people per grade, I didn’t expect there to be so many people,” Shreya said. “I didn’t really know anyone coming in, but everyone

here has been so nice and welcoming and understanding.”

Moving from The Highlands School, a private Catholic school in Irving, to a large public school in Coppell, Shreya’s dad Mahesh Kottapalli was nervous for the transition.

“At the last school, everything revolved around religion and if you didn’t believe in the same things, you weren’t very welcomed in that place so things did not go well for us,” Mr. Kottapalli said. “I [was afraid that religion might be the focus] here as well, but in Coppell, the pressure of religion is not there and there’s so much diversity and personality in the students and we love that.”

Shreya used to spend much of her time teaching taekwondo at Valley Ranch Taekwondo but as

the school year has started, she enjoys being a part of the CHS basketball team.

“Taekwondo was fun because you got to teach little kids and the joyful expression on their faces was really indescribable and warming,” Shreya said. “But basketball is so fun to play and to work with your teammates to achieve something together is the best part about being in it.”

Although she is a new face to both CHS and the Coppell community, Cowgirls assistant basketball coach Eve Engelbrite has noticed the talent and bright energy she brings to the team.

“Shreya is really encouraging to her teammates and she really helps the team stay up and positive,” Engelbrite said. “She has an overall good attitude and

I know she will blossom into a wonderful person as she grows in all the areas she may not have had access to grow in before.”

Her new, bubbly personality has also caught Mr. Kottapalli’s attention as she continues to assimilate to the Coppell community.

“We have been adjusting to Coppell very well and we love it so far,” Mr. Kotapalli said. “It’s different, but I see that Shreya is much happier in this school. She goes happy and comes home happy, and she enjoys every minute of it which is all that matters for us.”

photo by Hannah Tucker Coppell High School freshman Shrey Kottapatti runs down the court for warm up drill last Friday in the big gym. Kottapatti, who transferred to CHS from private Catholic school, The Highlands, and is now part of the Coppell basketball team and is enjoying life at a bigger school.

Ball shares her IB teaching experience after two years in high-stakes program

written by Kelly Wei Staff Writer @kellylinwei

For many of us, our monotonous and predictable life routines are a pattern we take comfort in repeating.

As students, the motions of waking up at 7 a.m. every day, taking a twenty minute bus ride to school, attending classes and returning home again in the afternoon may be uninteresting, but this familiar cycle lends us some sense of peace. If the bus takes an unfamiliar route one day or the seating arrangement of a class is changed without notice, concern and reluctance swiftly seizes us.

It is normal to shy away from what we are not familiar with, but amongst the masses, Stephanie Ball is charging the opposite direction this year.

Despite only being a part of the Coppell High School English department for two years, Ball harbors prior experience in teaching students ranging from the elementary to college level, and as of this fall, is ready to take on yet another new challenge: teaching

the International Baccalaureate (IB) program at CHS. IB is globally recognized as a higher-level academic diploma program for high school students, with a curriculum comparable in difficulty to Advanced Placement (AP) courses. As a result of this rigorous program, not only are students challenged, but teachers as well.

Not only was specialized training during the summer required to become a certified IB teacher, an entire shift in the teaching style was necessary, as student-led and open-ended discussions are prominent characteristics of the program. “[IB teachers] have to be comfortable with the fact that students are going to come up with different answers to questions and problems,” CHS IB program coordinator Michael Brock said.

“As a teacher, you have be able to accommodate that.”

Ball has mentioned facing similar adjustments to her mindset.

“It’s a teacher’s intuition to be in charge and tell the kids what they need to know,” Ball said. “But these are kids who are thinking

critically on their own. It’s less of me as a teacher and more about them figuring out things.”

Ball was first introduced to the idea of joining IB to teach an introductory English class for juniors by Brock at the end of the past spring semester. Although she had only taught a freshman English course for one year at CHS then, Ball was eager to step up to the plate.

From the beginning, it was clear that accepting the position meant full commitment on her end.

“She’s been very dedicated since the moment that we began having conversations about her moving into teaching IB classes with us,” Brock said. “It was very clear that if she was going to do this, she was going to do it with everything she had and absolutely maximize her effort so that it was the best experience not only for her but her students.”

Ball’s English students have also picked up on her enthusiasm and passion.

“She’s very bubbly, excited and eccentric,” Coppell High School junior Jessica Humen said.

photo by Ale Ceniceros IB English teacher Stephanie Ball teaches her fifth period class on Friday.

This is Ball’s first year teaching IB after teaching GT/Honors English, her college professor background has helped her transition between the differences in GT and IB.

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THE SIDEKICK

november 2016

STORIES BEYOND WORDS

Han brings art to life, career through passion past the strokes of paintbrush written by Jessica Jun Staff Writer @jesse_jun16 A smile smears across his face as Coppell High School senior Chulmin Han finishes his first college art piece.

Han has had a big heart for art since he was little. Although he once lost his motivation, he came back with an even greater drive to continue with it as a career.

“I have always liked art and growing up, it’s always been a part of who I was,” Han said. “But when I moved to Texas [from Ohio], I felt like everyone else was better than me so I kind of just stopped for a while. I found my motivation again when I started going to Top Art Studio and for the longest time, it was really grueling, but I’m realizing that I’m doing what I love, so I want to pursue it.”

His unique artistic passion has had a large influence on those around him, including his brother, Coppell High School sophomore Jeemin Han.

“A lot of people do not enjoy art, but he really loves what he does and he just has that drive to work harder than anyone else,” Jeemin said. “I see how proud he makes my dad and it really inspires me to be different and try harder in whatever I do.”

Each day, Chulmin spends more than five hours in the art studio working on his college application pieces. His art teacher, Grace Kim, took notice in his talent and has high hopes for his future.

“Chulmin can do details really well or better than most students and he has the ability to see objects in a very precise, delicate kind of way,” Kim said. “We have to create 20 pieces to complete his college application but he is doing very well and I just continue being impressed by him everyday.

I really hope he continues to pursue his artistic passion.”

In addition to his art teacher, his father, Jae Han, has been a big supporter of Chulmin’s passion towards art.

“My dad was an artist and it is honestly amazing to see how much talent has passed

through to Chulmin,” Mr. Han said of his son’s talent. “I hope to lay down a playground for him so that he can pursue whatever he likes to do and I do not want any kind of stumbling block to stop him from pursuing his dream. It does not really matter if he succeeds or not as long as he does what he really enjoys to do.”

His family and friends have recognized Chulmin’s uniqueness and look forward to seeing him create more artwork that is different from the rest.

“In the future, he is not really going to follow what the rest of the world is doing but instead, he will create something that will give back to the world,” Jeemin said. “I really look forward to what he is going to create. It is going to be different and something that we won’t be able to comprehend and I think he is really going to be set apart from everyone else.”

Unlike many artists of this generation, Chulmin looks beyond monetary values of art and finds a unique goal that he hopes to achieve through his art career.

“As a person or artist in general, I have no ambitions,” Chulmin said. “I do not care about money and I do not care about fame-- they just do not really appeal to me because I do not think these things have much meaning. A huge part of why I want to pursue art is because I am a Christian. I want to glorify God with the art I create. I want to convey His love and grace and be more out there to show people that this is who I am. This is me.”

As he finishes up his pieces and continues forward with his career, Chulmin looks forward to revealing a different perspective on art for the rest of the world.

“Sometimes when you see artistic pieces, you can really feel the emotions and thoughts of the artist,” Chulmin said.

“What I want to do is beyond expressing my own emotions that I felt when I was growing up. I want to convey the feelings of love and grace that I felt through my art. I do not know exactly how I am going to do that, but that’s something I can definitely look forward to in the future.”

hristie Nah

photo by C

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graphics by Austin

Banzon

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THE SIDEKICK

Review

november 2016

Popular video game revives its way back onto battle field with exciting new saga

written by Austin Banzon Staff Designer “Gears of War 4” begins a chilling new saga featuring an epic battle between humanity and a monstrous new enemy originating from beneath earth’s crust.

This third person shooter game was released on Oct. 11 and is available only on the Xbox One and Windows 10 PC platforms.

The story takes place 25 years after

written by Akila Muthukumar Staff Writer @akilam29 In June 1997, the very first Harry Potter book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, was released by British author J.K. Rowling. The novel marked the inception of a journey that three young wizards embark upon.

For seven years, Harry, Ron, and Hermione forged friendships, attended wizarding classes, and ultimately defeated the dark Lord Voldemort.

Almost 20 years later on July 31, Rowling, John Tiffany and Jack Thorne released a script for the eighth story, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which takes place in the year 2020, 19 years after the events of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

All three authors had an unique role in the creation of this story. Thorne, English screenwriter and playwright, has written for radio, theatre and TV shows. Tiffany, English theatre director, has directed internationally successful productions. Their job is to make Rowling’s play come alive on stage.

Rowling had high hopes for this latest installment to the series.

“This is putting me back 10 years. I know there is a lot of expectation,” Rowling said in an interview with BBC news.

When put under pressure, Rowling turned to others to help her create this piece.

the extinction of the villainous Locust Horde. The protagonist, JD Fenix, is on an important mission alongside his teammates Kait and Del to rescue their loved ones after their village was ravaged by an unknown enemy force.

After completing the campaign on “Insane” (the highest difficulty level), I realized that the game is frustrating but also engaging at the same time. Mission after mission, there are intense combat situations against either weaponized mechanical robots or the overwhelming numbers of mutated beasts called the Swarm.

It may take many attempts to surpass an enemies’ attack but each attempt will surely push you to strategize or develop

a technique to overcome them, which is an incredible experience.

To balance out the action phases, each phase is followed by intriguing cinematic cutscenes giving veteran players nostalgia from recognizing familiar faces in the past games in the “Gears of War 4”.

The other two game types in “Gears of War 4” are online player vs. player (Versus) and an online player versus environment survival game type (Horde). The multiplayer PVP modes brings both close and long range combat to a new level.

Comp e t - ing against people online to complete an objective is a different experience than fending off programmed enemy bots. You just don’t know who you’re up against, as each match can turn out well or end in a heartbreaking

defeat depending on how you and your teammates play.

The Horde survival mode is the best way to practice the basic shoot and cover skills needed in order to be successful in the battlefield. Since players now have the ability to place barricades, turrets and decoys anywhere on the ground, it offers a more creative way to fortify their position.

After each wave, the enemies grow stronger and it is imperative that you and your t e a m mates build a defense in order to ensure each other’s safety.

“Gears of War 4” is an adrenaline rushing video game that is worth playing mainly for its story. Throughout the campaign, there are emotional moments that truly mark the uniqueness of this enthralling tale about family. graphic by Austin Banzon

A SPELL BINDING FINALE

Rowling releases eighth story in beloved Harry Potter series “[Thorne and Tiffany] were the people I trusted to do it right,” Rowling said in a video interview during the premiere.

They’ve done it more than right. [We] love to think that children who might otherwise find theatre quite intimidating would come and see a real play, a long play, and love it.”

The play’s official synopsis was released by the publisher, Pottermore. “[Harry Potter is] an overworked employee of the Ministry of Magic, a husband, and father of three school-age children.

While Harry grapples with a past that refuses to stay where it belongs, his youngest son Albus must struggle with the weight of a family legacy he never wanted. As past and present fuse ominously, both father a n d son learn the uncomfor table truth: sometimes, darkness comes from unexpected places,” Pottermore said.

CHS librarians, Linda Hevron and Jennifer Sullivan, have not read the full screenplay.

“I started reading, but the screenplay format was just a turnoff

for me,” Sullivan said.

Sophomore Sneha Korlakunta did not feel like the new story lived up to her expectations.

“My love for Harry Potter has not decreased in the slightest but I am glad I did not have to actually witness the play i n person,” Korlakunta said. “The c h a r - acterization of main characters was incredibly different from the original series’ portrayal of them. There were many plot holes and misguided attempts to realistically create a post-Voldemort world.

It made me wary of the upcoming [2016 movie] Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them.”

Sophomore Dwija Dammana agrees that the book was a let down.

“I felt like I didn’t like it that much because a lot of the characters were out of character and it didn’t keep with the rest of series,” Dammana said. “Voldemort kept coming back and that was annoying.

I didn’t really want that.”

On the other hand, two Harry Potter club members, Fran Jaubert and Esha Makkar, had a more positive reception to the story.

“I really liked [the book],” Makkar said.

“It was good because it really had a lot of unexpected twists.”

Although many do not believe the book continues the beloved traditions that the first seven books set, Rowling has ventured into new, exciting grounds with t h i s unique screenplay.

O n l y time will tell what i s y e t to come.

graphic by Sruthi

Boppuri

THE SIDEKICK

november 2016

Most neglected meal of the day

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Student culture of skipping breakfast not a healthy, sustainable daily lifestyle written by Lili Lomas Student Life Editor You’ve heard the saying about breakfast.

We’ve been fed the phrase every morning since kindergarten.

Despite society’s emphasis on the importance of the first meal of the day, many still do not eat a “complete, balanced breakfast”. In fact, many teenagers skip breakfast altogether.

The reasoning many give for the lack of a morning meal?

No time.

“The majority of the time I don’t have the time to eat breakfast,” Coppell High School junior Ruqy Bankole said. “I wake up at 6 a.m. and the minute I wake up I have my bath, I get ready and once I’m

done, I have extra time to study and sometimes I may not get done in time because I’m not the only child.”

Bankole is part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program at CHS and lives with three younger family members who she has to make sure get ready for school and get to the bus on time every morning.

She is one example of students who do not eat breakfast because they say they do not have time to eat it, much less make it. In an already crowded schedule filled with hours of homework each night, many students sacrifice waking up earlier to eat a full breakfast before school in order to squeeze in a few extra minutes of sleep.

Teens stay up late finishing assignments and studying so naturally they stay in bed past their alarms in the morning to maximize their sleep time, which, for many, is

photo by Lili Lomas A mango strawberry smoothie is a convenient, on-the-go meal. With minimal preparation, it may be a solution to breakfast-skipping culture.

short as it is. This makes students even more rushed in the mornings as they change, get ready for school and maybe even do some last minute studying.

“Usually I’m up at night because of homework and it’s hard for me to get up in the morning and get to school,” CHS junior Abby Hall said.

Apart from time, many students do not eat a morning meal simply because they are not hungry.

It is natural for the body to not feel hungry when it wakes up due to a the body’s natural circadian rhythms. This process is like a body clock that controls metabolism on a 24-hour basis and some people’s rhythm causes them to have a low appetite in the morning. “[I don’t eat breakfast] every morning because it takes a while to eat breakfast and

I’m not really that hungry in the morning,” CHS freshman Hannah Sigler said.

However, those who do not eat breakfast may feel hungry in their morning classes which can affect their concentration. Coppell ISD dietitian Alicia Braun encourages eating breakfast due to the health and performance benefits it can bring.

“It’s definitely beneficial because it gives you a boost of energy to start your day and helps mental performance,” Braun said.

“Studies have shown it improves test scores and can help reduce obesity.”

A simple, on-the-go meal may be a quick fix to this breakfast skipping epidemic as it can be prepared at home and taken to school to satisfy hunger until lunch.

There are many quick recipes that will satisfy morning hunger and provide energy to start the day on the right foot.

photo by Aubrie Sisk My step grandmother’s cinnamon rolls with homemade icing greatly surpass Pillsbury, a brand whose rolls I have known and loved since I was young.

Quick, tasty breakfast smoothie recipe Kansas trip delivers new icing technique written by Lili Lomas Student Life Editor Drinking a morning meal instead of eating one is a very underrated concept. A quick, healthy smoothie can energize you for the day ahead and function as something you can grab-and-go if you are running late.

Here is a simple to-go recipe for rushed mornings before school. With minimal preparation needed, these drinks are easy to make and provide servings of fruit for a healthy but tasteful morning pick-me up.

For those who get to school early in the morning for extracurricular activities, sipping on a smoothie on the way to a practice or study session is a lighter alternative to a solid meal. This is also the perfect meal-re-

placement before an early morning workout. The yogurt and extra ingredients can provide protein for early classes, giving you energy at the start of the day.

Ingredients: 1 cup Kefir probiotic drink (similar to liquid yogurt) ⅓ cup halved strawberries ⅓ cup diced mango ⅓ cup raspberries ¾ cup ice Optional toppings (ex: granola, peanut butter, coconut, dried fruit, nuts, banana slices, etc.

Directions: 1. Blend all ingredients in a blender until they reach a smooth consistency.

2. Pour into a to-go cup and enjoy.

written by Aubrie Sisk Communications Manager @aubrie_sisk I visited my stepgrandmother in Kansas over the summer and she made me the best cinnamon roll breakfast I have ever had.

Here is her recipe: Ingredients: ½ cup butter ¾ cup sugar ¾ cup brown sugar 1 cup melted vanilla ice cream 12 pack Rhodes Cinnamon Rolls Directions: 1. Heat butter in a saucepan over the stove until completely melted.

2. Stir in brown and white sugar until

fully combined.

3. Keep over heat on the stove until the mixture thickens, make sure to remain below a boil.

4. While the mixture thickens, place the cinnamon rolls in a 13 x 9 inch pan.

5. Once the mixture thickens, add in the melted ice cream and stir.

6. Pour the thickened mixture over the pan of cinnamon rolls.

7. Place the pan in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours (or overnight) so the mixture can soak into the cinnamon rolls.

8. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and place the pan in for 30 minutes.

9. Remove either after the 30 minutes or once the tops are golden brown.

10. Frost with the extra packaged cream cheese frosting.

Enjoy with a glass of milk!

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An unforgettable experience Dalrymple twins prepare for final show in theater career, say goodbye to spotlight written by Jessica Jun Staff Writer @jesse_jun16 Stepping out onto the stage, they set up the props, took their place and waited.

They took a deep breath as the curtains rose and their faces lit up. After almost 10 years of participating in theater, Coppell High School senior identical twins Jack and Ty Dalrymple will never forget the exciting feeling of performing on stage.

“Jack and I started theater because when we were kids, our parents put us in every sports camp imaginable and we just weren’t very big fans of them,” Ty said. “But around 3rd grade, we started participating in community theater and since then, the more we continued [acting], the more we fell in love with it.”

Noticing their talent at a young age, CHS theater director Lisa Tabor appreciates their contribution to the program as a whole.

“They are both great actors and caring leaders,” Tabor said. “Even though they’re twins, they’re very different so it’s just cool to kind of see the different areas they grow in. The fact that they love theater so much and are always good role models puts them among the group that stands out.”

A long time friend and president of the Drama Club, CHS senior Layne Allen has enjoyed getting to perform on stage with the Dalrymples.

“I’ve known them for about seven years and I love being with them,” Allen said.

“They are amazing actors. They are open to doing anything the director tells them to and they are so humble about everything.”

While theater has helped the Dalrymples grow in their acting skills, it has helped them to grow in their character as well.

“Theater allows me to deliver important life lessons and getting to portray that through a character is so much fun,” Jack said. “It taught me to become fearless and let go of my worries. Through theater, I discovered who I really am.”

Although the two may have to compete against one another for a role in a play or musical, at the end of the day, both brothers are very supportive of each other.

“Being together has taught us more than we can anticipate because going into auditions, we both have certain parts we want, but we always know that we will support each other no matter the outcome and we know it’s more important to be proud of one another,” Ty said.

Theater has become a large part of the Dalrymples’ interests. As their last year in high school passes by and they prepare for their last CHS musical, they will never forget their theatric passion.

While they won’t be pursuing theater as a career, the Dalrymple twins hope to keep up with it in the future.

“I learn so much just by watching or being part of a play or musical,” Jack said. “I’m more focused on film right now but if I ever have an opportunity to be in theater, I’d never turn it down.”

On Oct. 25, Coppell High School seniors Jack Dalrymple (left) and Allison Davis (right) rehearse their fall musical, 42nd Street, in the CHS auditorium. Dalrymple plans to pursue film as a career, but hopes to keep up with theater in the future.

photos by Amanda Hair Coppell High School seniors Ty Dalrymple (left) and Allison Davis (right) rehearse their fall musical, 42nd Street, on Oct. 25 in the CHS auditorium. Dalrymple has found joy in being involded in theater in and outside of school for almost ten years.

The Sidekick Strip

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Now Showing Patterson’s third feature film comes to completion

more like the plot of Prepper. A place where communities are falling apart and people standing by watching it happen. Patterson now hopes that his message resounds more fully in the audience.

“The moral of [Prepper] is stand together,” he said. “Sometimes we feel isolated and alone and I think in our culture sometimes we’ll get to a point where we’re on our own. I want this film to empower people to know that we’re the same. We’re not alone, we can stand together as normal people in the suburbs. Because when we stand together, we’re strong.”

Prepper premieres at the Texas Theatre in Dallas on Nov. 19.

written by Kathryn Rudd Entertainment Editor @rudd_kathryn

Already ahead of the new digital age during the 90s, AP Human Geography teacher Andrew Patterson has always had a passion for storytelling. Now 22 years after graduating from one of the places of his inspiration, Coppell High School, his new feature film Prepper is hitting the silver screen.

The film centers around James McAlister, an ordinary man living in suburbia. McAlister becomes determined that the world is falling apart at the hands of its people, leading him to prepare for the worst case scenarios. He undertakes a journey of survival, while meeting a group of friends to stand beside him along the way.

“This idea just kind of hit me,” Patterson said. “We have it so good in this country and we’re so blessed to just get whatever we want. What would happen if society broke down? That would be a really good story because we’re so used to having nice suburban safety.

Success on this scale was not something Patterson had expected after forgoing filmmaking to pursue a more spiritual lifestyle.

“I never thought about it as a career,” Patterson said. “I didn’t pursue it because I second guessed and doubted myself and talked myself out of it for years because I didn’t think it was something God could use as a ministry. And I really want my life to serve God.” But one day after being recruited to direct an extravagant wedding video, complete with a $6 million dollar budget, six cameras, a crane camera and the helicopter used in the Hollywood film Die Hard, Patterson realized that maybe it was a sign that this is the direction he should take.

“I [realized] that if [I] can do all of this, why don’t just do what you love?” he said.

But this feeling is still relatively new, especially for lead actor Jay Bowdy.

“The feeling is indescribable,” Bowdy

said. “However it’s really not just about me.

I fed off [the] other cast. If they felt there was something they knew that could help me they spoke up and I took it in. As the days continued with filming I became even better at my craft with less hiccups and living truthfully as James McAllister.”

Patterson helped Bowdy discover a new passion for acting, and coached him through whom he wanted McAlister to be.

“I was so wrapped up in sports that I never gave it the opportunity to sprout until my basketball career ended,” Bowdy said. “What Andrew did was see my talent, though raw, and grew it at a tremendous level.”

Patterson also had some students as extras during production. Coppell High School junior Macy Johnson is featured in a scene which gave her an inside look on

who Patterson is in his element.

“It was a such a great experience,” Johnson said. “He was very nice and funny, just like he is when he is teaching. It is obvious that everyone’s happiness is very important to him and that he cares a lot about his crew and cast.

Despite the impact Patterson had on his cast and the possible success the film might see, Patterson still works for the love of filmmaking, without awards clouding his creativity.

“I would love to say that I feel so great about being recognized,” Patterson said.

“But the truth is it is actually such a humbling experience because it’s so difficult to get a film done. It takes everything I have.

By this point I’m just very grateful to get there.”

Society today might seem more and

photos courtsey Prepper Facebook Coppell High School AP Human Geography teacher Andrew Patterson movie “Prepper” premieres on Nov. 19, 2016. The movie was partially filmed at the CHS campus.

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BEHIND CLOSED DOORS Trump’s vulgar comments explode over Internet, misrepresent locker room life With the sports world, a frenzied cluster of World Series baseball, all levels of football and the dawn of a new basketball season, something else has managed to take the stage, front and center. The volatile, explosive presidential election cycle has managed to steal headlines and television ratings across the nation as the two candidates continually lash out at one another on Twitter and otherwise.

However, one of the many fiascos has stirred up more talk in sports than the any of the rest. After being caught on tape saying horrifically vulgar comments about women and boasting about sexual assault, Republican nominee Donald Trump attempted to save face by simply regarding the comments as “locker room talk.”

But are his comments warranted as just something guys do? Is this even acceptable in a true “locker room setting”?

“In all my years being in a locker room setting, ever since seventh grade, I’ve never heard anything like that at all, anything close to what he said,” Coppell senior football player Skyler Seidman said. “In the locker room, we don’t really talk about that kind of stuff. We talk about the team and things that are going on in our lives rather than talking about other people.”

In the Coppell football program, the

high standard of character and respect is set from the coaches from the start.

“It starts at the top, and there’s been a certain standard that we set in [the coach’s] office,” football coach Mike DeWitt. “You’re never going to hear profanity or actually any kind of foul, filthy talk out of our coaches, and the kids know that. It’s not tolerated in this office, and in our locker room, it’s just the trickle down effect.”

In the football locker room, much like in most others at Coppell, a coach is required to be in the locker room at all times while athletes are getting ready for practice or a game. However, DeWitt believes that monitoring their speech is not necessary for the team.

“We’ve got some really good kids, and there’s not a whole lot of time for that stuff either,” DeWitt said. “We’re trying to get in and get out, and those guys don’t have a whole lot of time to sit around and socialize. When we’re fixing to start practice, those guys are having to hustle out there, and at the end, they’re trying to go to lunch.”

For the players, it is a matter of simply knowing what is accepted and permitted and what is simply unacceptable to discuss.

“None of that stuff really gets policed, because we all know how to act,” Seidman said. “Coaches don’t really have to police that kind of stuff.”

In the respect of true talk in a locker room setting, the football team has no

tolerance on any front for talk as vulgar as Trump’s statements. However, in his past, DeWitt has had experiences as a player with other guys making similar remarks.

“There would be a few occasions where guys would be saying things that were off color, and then as an individual, you have a choice to either walk away, or say ‘hey, pipe down’,” DeWitt said. “I think it’s just the culture we live in, it’s not just in locker rooms. It’s probably with guys behind cubicles too.”

This crude side of our culture has been witnessed in other sports as well. Coppell

‘‘

we tolerate, [we don’t tolerate it]. I look at it as my own son. I wouldn’t say in front of kids what I wouldn’t want repeated.”

The introduction of children into his life has also altered the viewpoint of Coppell soccer coach Chad Rakestraw, who has four daughters.

“Obviously having daughters, your perspective changes a lot on how you view women, how you treat them, and how you want your daughters to be treated,” Rakestraw said. “But we’re talking about things that were spoken about or ways that women were spoken about that’s crude, that’s vul-

In all my years being in a locker room setting, ever since seventh grade, I’ve never heard anything like that at all, anything close to what he said.

Skyler Seidman, Senior

basketball coach and CISD assistant athletic director Kit Pehl, who played basketball at the collegiate level, has also had his fair share of experiences with suggestive statements in a locker room.

“There’s things that I experienced as a college player and maybe even as a high school player that would rival [Trump’s statements],” Pehl said. “However, in terms of what I experience with our athletes, I can’t speak for all of them, but as far as what

graphic by Thomas Rousseau

‘‘

written by Marcus Krum Executive Sports Editor @marcuskrum

gar, that’s demeaning, that is objectifying.

There’s never, even if I had no kids whatsoever, there’s never a place for it. It should be a societal expectation. It shouldn’t be something that’s accepted.”

Even though Pehl has experienced peers that have made similar remarks, he has no lower expectations of his team and their respect for others.

“I don’t believe there’s a concept of what you can say in a locker room is for there, and it’s separate from what real life is like,” Pehl said. “I wouldn’t support that kind of talk anywhere, much less in a locker room.

“For me, if I’m going to have bad character in a locker room, I’m capable of having bad character anywhere.”

While there may never be an issue that arises that is in as poor taste as Trump’s comments, the average high school basketball locker room is not always the most pure space. But the only room for vulgar talk in Pehl’s locker room stems from practice that day, or issues that need to be solved within the team. And in this case, it may be necessary.

“It’s two-way street. There are things in the locker room that you’ve got to address, and they’re not all going to be rosy,” Pehl said. “Guys can be vulgar if it goes that direction. Things can get ugly in a locker room because there’s things to address, and sometimes it’s not pleasant. That can lead to harsh words, but there’s some things you’ve got to get past to move on.”

But no matter what the sport, the coach, the athlete, the societal standard is one that is unwavering. While those who are on the ballots to become the next President of the United States may not always uphold it, one thing is for sure: the athletes in programs across Coppell athletics will.

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SPORTS MEDIA

AND HOW THE

INTERNET SAVED IT

Social media platforms offer revolutionary ways for fans to receive, produce content

written by Reid Valentine Staff Writer @reidv9 I am a high school student and I hate being bored, but I love sports. Chances are, when I am 30 years old, I will still hate being bored and love sports.

The good news for me is that anytime I am

bored I hop on Twitter or TeamStream and am instantly engulfed in sports up to my ears.

“I didn’t read the newspaper, and the Internet was just getting started when I was in high school,” former Grantland and current Ringer staff writer Shea Serrano said.

“There wasn’t a certain place to get stuff, I didn’t even have an e-mail address until I was in college.”

The NBA playoffs produce some of the best moments in all of sports, and these moments come with names that any sports fan knows. In 2016 we had “the block”, which consisted of Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James running the length of the court to block the Golden State Warriors power forward Andre Iguodala at the end of game seven of the NBA Finals to win Cleveland its first major sports title since 1964.

In 1995, the playoffs used a coy basketball star from the Indiana Pacers to out the New York Knicks as the “choke artists” they were.

Reggie Miller scored 8 points in 8.9 seconds to vault his Pacers over the rival Knicks after being down six points with under 15 seconds remaining, all while trash talking the opposing players along with obnoxious Knicks superfan and movie director Spike Lee. “I had turned the game off when [the Knicks] went up six, ‘I was like forget this I’m [upset]’ ,” Serrano said. “A few minutes later my phone rings and it’s my buddy who’s like, ‘oh my god man, you missed it,’ there was no way for me to see what happened, he was telling me everything but I couldn’t rewind the TV, there was no Internet, so I had to just wait for the next day on TV to maybe see a blurb about it.”

We no longer have to wait for the next day’s paper, or the

three minute sports segment on our local news broadcast to hear of the previous day’s sports news. It’s all on our iPhones in a matter of seconds with every opinion possible being thrown into the crazy huge platform that is sports media.

Although Reggie Miller might not have broken Twitter with his otherworldly performance, he was absolutely the most talked about figure in break rooms and man caves for days. Conversations were still had (although not by Serrano apparently), opinions were thrown around and arguments surely erupted.

“The delivery system has probably changed more than anything else,” Washington Redskins director of communications Ross Taylor said. “I’m only 27 [years old] so someone 10 years older than me may have a different view, but I think there is a lot more multimedia out there right now like videos and podcasts and things of that nature because publishers are starting to value it more.”

Taylor is a 2007 Coppell High School graduate and former Sidekick editor-in-chief.

This delivery system is without a doubt the Internet, and this mode started as just a way to post content that would already be in the newspapers, while adding in a few extra stories here and there. Now sites such as sbnation.com exist that are purely online and interact with readers allowing them to have an effect on the articles, videos and podcasts produced.

“I mostly get my [sports] through my phone on apps like Twitter, Barstool, or TeamStream,” senior Coppell pitcher Clayton Jones said.

“You can personalize your stream and feed for all of your teams. I like being able to scroll through and see players and certain plays after they’ve happened then reading articles on them.”

In essence people can cultivate, through their laptops and smartphones, a sports media experience of 100 percent their choosing. My TeamStream app on my iPhone is set to only deliver information about Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers and Texas Longhorns; this personalization was not possible even five years ago. This, paired with Twitter, has revolutionized what being a fan really means.

Through social media I can express myself through pictures or 140 characters, yelling through my thumbs to my followers what I think to be true and worthwhile.

Scan to read full story on Coppell Student Media

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Kicking it up a notch Coppell students to raise stakes at World Taekwondo Junior Championships On Nov. 16, in Burnaby, Canada, New Tech@ Coppell senior Trinity Sullivan will approach the mat and swing h e r leg up in the air, six times on the left and six on the right, just like she has done many times before.

H o w e v e r, this time, the stakes are different.

Sullivan and two other Coppell students, Coppell High School sophomore Austin Tran and junior Connor Giddens, will face competition from across the globe as they take on the most prestigious taekwondo event for junior athletes - the World Taekwondo Junior Championships.

Although the three Junior Olympic team members have found success in taekwondo by different means, they each have found their passion in the same art; one that has tested them in different ways, but that has made them each the outstanding, floor-dominating athletes they are.

Giddens got his start in taekwondo when he was just 4 years old, but for a different reason than one might expect.

“I was diagnosed with attention deficit

disorder,” Giddens said. “My parents needed something for me to get all my energy out, so they signed me up for taekwondo.

I’ve been doing it ever since.”

Although he started young, over the years Giddens has found in taekwondo what he didn’t find in any other activitypassion.

“It started as just something I could do after school, and once I realized, ‘hey I have potential in this,’ I grew into wanting to be a world champion,” Giddens said.

Countless competitions later, Giddens has not only proved himself an exceptional athlete, but has also changed the way he performs in other aspects of his life.

“I struggled with school a lot before I joined taekwondo,” Giddens said. “I think it’s definitely helped me focus in school, it’s taught me how to sit still, and it’s taught me self-control and discipline.”

For the world competition, Giddens will be heading to Canada for the third time, after winning Gold twice in the Canadian Open.

However, this time around, he will share the floor with 800 other top-level athletes from over 100 countries across the globe.

“We’ve seen these guys on YouTube, we’ve seen these guys on TV fighting, they’re the best of the best, and now we know that we have to be up there,” Giddens

Coppell High School sophomore Austin Tran and junior Connor Giddens warm up during practice on Oct. 19 at the Coppell NTA Taekwondo center. Tran, Giddens and New Tech @ Coppell High junior Trinity Sullivan are all Coppell ISD students and will be attending the U.S. National Jr. Team competition in Canada.

said. “It’s a lot more to lose with this one, so the pressures on.”

While he feels there is still work to be done before November, Giddens is up to the challenge, and is not taking preparation lightly.

“Up until worlds, [Tran] and I were going to the gym a lot more, training a lot

‘‘

himself.

“When you’re fighting, if you’re nervous, you’ll hold back on what you do, and that will give your opponent more of an advantage,” Tran said. “You have to have self-discipline, you have to be confident.”

As world competition rapidly approaches, Tran too is accelerating with

You can’t be a champion every tournament, but you can be a winner every tournament, with the way you carry yourself Master Sang Cha, director at NTA

more, because we knew the qualifications were going to be harder than any competition we had gone to,” Giddens said. “[We] still have a lot of training to do; we have a lot of mental preparation to do as well as physical preparation.”

Currently a national titleholder and world competitor, Tran got his start in taekwondo later than one might expect.

“I did lacrosse, football, but after a while I quit that because I realized I was more into individual sports,” Tran said. “When I was 12 years old, that’s when I got into taekwondo, it all started from there.”

However, the later start has not kept Tran from becoming an accomplished taekwondo athlete. During his first black belt competition in 2014, he fought for - and won - a spot on the U.S. team.

Since then, his hard work has continued to pay off, as his talent has taken him all over the world, from Azerbaijan to Mexico. His achievements have taught him not only about success in the sport, but about

‘‘

written by Meara Isenberg Editor-in-Chief @mearaannee

week long practices and intense training.

“I feel pretty good, we’ve been training six days a week, sometimes four to six hours every day,” Tran said. “[We’re] not quite there yet, but we’ve been working on our conditioning, our endurance, and our strength.”

For the final Coppell competitor, Sullivan, world competition is going to be different from those past, but not just because of the tough competition.

The seven time national championship winner has found taekwondo to be not just a sport, but an outlet for relaxation.

To follow updates of the competition, follow the World Taekwondo Junior Championships on Facebook or on Twitter at @WTJCBurnaby2016.

Scan to read the full story on the Coppell Student Media website

(Left to right) Coppell High School sophomore Austin Tran, New Tech @ Coppell High junior Trinity Sullivan and Coppell High School junior Connor Giddens prepare for a world championship in Canada. Tran, Sullivan and Giddens are all part of the U.S. National Jr. Team. photos by Ale

Cencerios

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THE SIDEKICK

november 2016

A

Different

Goal photo by Aubrie

SIsk

Coppell high school senior Bishesh Manandhar has bags of uniforms and cleats ready to mail to Nepal. Manandhar has been collecting donations for his non-profit organization “Soccer for Nepal” since the traumatic Earthquake in Nepal in Apriul 2015.

Manandhar establishes nonprofit to send soccer apparel to Nepal A sharp jolt of movement causes the lights to sway in the house, followed by a violent shaking that quickly passes. Since such occurrences are common in Kathmandu, Nepal, people are not phased by these incidents. They have adapted by altering their lifestyles, specifically arranging their homes, taking protective measures and enforcing strict building codes.

But regardless of the prior planning, no one could brace for traumatic aftereffects of the Nepal earthquake of April 2015.

While watching in horror along with the world, Coppell High School senior Bishesh Manandhar took initiative by fusing his love for soccer with helping those in need and established Soccer for Nepal.

A witness of Nepal’s worst natural disaster in 80 years, the 6,104 person death toll, 14,000 injured and 2.8 million displaced people, the horrific catastrophe incentivized Manandhar to bring his vision to reality by his junior year.

His initial inspiration for the organization came from his trip to Nepal in the summer of 2009 when Manandhar played pickup soccer in a Nepali village.

“I saw a little boy and every time the ball went out of bounds, he would run over and get it and he had no clothes, I could see

he was very poor and skinny,” Manandhar said. “I was thinking, he probably doesn’t have a family, enough food, yet he is so happy, chasing this ball around.”

Manandhar’s parents have been very supportive of his effort, assisting with the paperwork required to establish a non-profit, his family members in Nepal distribute the donations to different soccer programs and friend in Nepal takes pictures and videos to showcase the organization’s progress.

“Not many people have the opportunity to play soccer and when they do play, they don’t have shoes,” Manandhar said. “Maybe if I could develop soccer in Nepal, other things can start growing and developing, that was the goal.”

Since its launch, the program has helped three youth programs of various ages mainly located in Kathmandu, the nation’s capital.

Manandhar’s personal soccer journey started in 2009 and he currently competes at high level on both his club team, the Texas Tomahawks, and high school soccer as a three year member of the 2016 Class 6A state champion Coppell varsity team.

The Cowboys soccer program receives new soccer jerseys every two years, causing an accumulation of lightly used apparel which was donated to Soccer for Nepal with the help of Coppell soccer coach, Chad Rakestraw.

“I thought it was pretty cool and it’s

pretty neat that out of the million messages he gets, he actually got a response from him,” Rakestraw said.

His extracurricular accomplishments, stellar academics such as recently being named a National Merit Commended student and humble persona has established him as a role model for many underclassmen.

“He is trying to spread a message that helping those in underdeveloped countries

‘‘

example for all players,” Most importantly from the experience of starting an organization, Manandhar has personally gained a higher degree of appreciation for the game which most take for granted.

“Bishesh is probably one person I really look up to, he has a great future and beyond that, he is a great soccer player, academic student and always wants to help you out whenever he can,” Verma said.

Just seeing the kids being happy and smiling is the most rewarding aspect, my family in Nepal tells me the kids call me ‘big brother’, It’s just nice to give someone the opportunity that you had to play soccer.

Bishesh Manandhar, senior

is a need,” CHS junior teammate Amit Verma said. “By using soccer as a communicator, it effectively spread the word.”

His respect for the game and dedication is not only observed by his peers and coach, but was also noted by the president.

“Bishesh is just a leader by example, he does everything that you want from a player,” Rakestraw said. “His work ethic is always not even in question, his attitude, and coachability. For us, Bishesh is a great

‘‘

written by Tanya Raghu Staff Writer @tanya_raghu

Manandhar utilizes social media platforms Facebook and Twitter to reach both community members and the CHS student population and emails club teams in the DFW area to create awareness.

“Just seeing the kids being happy and smiling is the most rewarding aspect, my family in Nepal tells me the kids call me ‘big brother’,” Manandhar said. “It’s just nice to give someone the opportunity that you had to play soccer.”

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