Vol. 1 , Issue 11 4/18/2013
Make Your Mark Madi and Laura Endicott
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Still stumbling around the world like babies in a walker, making mistakes and discovering all of life’s perks and disappointments, as teenagers we consider ourselves invincible. With our uncharted futures burning bright ahead of us and so many options available, we aspire for greatness, whether the goal is considered attainable or not. We want to do everything and anything to show the world what we’re made of. We have the desire to make our personal, unique, awe-inspiring mark on the world. Whether it be growing the world’s largest watermelon, or (be honest, all of our shower heads are familiar with this dream) making it big time as a pop singer, we all want to be notorious for something great. Thoreau put it best when he said, “One is not born into the world to do everything, but to do something.” Although the colorful vision of our uprising may be something grand and substantial, we can make our mark, we can be great, we can show this world what we’re made of through the simple but effective task of volunteering. Volunteering provides the chance for us to to show others who we are. By sacrificing time to help others in need in our community, it could end up having a lasting effect on us and the people we help. Sure, it means giving up an hour or two of our lives, but would those moments honestly be better spent playing video games or reading people’s tweets about what they ate for breakfast or who they just saw outside of Penn Station (#OMG)?
Although the whole world may not know about our small but meaningful deed (because the global population does not consist of 328 followers) and it is also unlikely that we end up on the cover of People magazine, by volunteering, our actions leave an imprint on someone’s heart and life. There are a wide variety of areas that need volunteers. With an endless amount of opportunities here in Findlay, we all have this chance, this privilege to make our mark on the world. SummerREAD: Are you someone who doesn’t go anywhere over summer break and is honored with the privilege of spending it in good old Findlay, Ohio? If you are, this is the perfect volunteer opportunity for you! SummerREAD is a summer program held by the Findlay Hancock County Public Library. “Volunteens,” as the library refers to its participants, conduct educational activities for kids as well as read to them. Head out to the library to pick up an application and get information on meeting times. Teddy’s Rescue: Teddy’s Rescue is an orphanage for the homeless furry friends in our community. They rescue dogs and cats and provide care until “forever homes” are found for them. » See Make Your Mark pg. 2
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CONTENTS News....................... p. 2 » State Choir & Band » Cabaret » FFA Contests » Credit Flex for Gym
The Knight Life....... p. 3 » Restaurant Review - Beer Barrel » Heard in the Halls » Movie Review - 42 » Book Review - Will Grayson, Will Grayson
» Senior Spotlights: Monique Walton and Josh Pettry
Jessica Cunningham
Tomorrow is the nationwide protest known as the Day of Silence. Day of Silence is enacted by refraining from any form of verbal speech the entire day of April 19th of this year. Founded in 1996, the Day of Silence takes place every April and is a way for students to “end the silence” that LGBT (Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender) students are forced into and the harassment that is often discussed
Monique Walton & Josh Pettry
Entertainment....... p. 4-5
Ending the Silence
Courtesy of dosomething.org(fair use)
Senior Spotlights:
» Teacher Feature: Mr. Vaughn
in today’s media against them. The first Day of Silence took place at the University of Virginia, and since then thousands of colleges, high schools, and middle schools have participated. The highest estimated participation number was 8,000 back in 2008. The slogan for this year’s Day of Silence is, “What will you do to end the silence?” Twitter is also being utilized and the hashtag #dayofsilence is being suggested to those in support of the cause. Although it may be too late at this point to purchase the gear which includes shirts, buttons, wristbands, hats, stickers, and posters, you can still participate in the day itself. If you plan to participate, make your teachers aware that you will be participating as soon as possible. It may also be helpful to carry around a form of information—there are speaking cards and informative brochures available for free at dayofsilence.com—so that people are aware of the reason for your silence. If you wish to participate and have unanswered questions such as any about legal rights and what Day of Silence additionally stands for, visit dayofsilence.com.
» Where are They Now? Tracy (Allen) Deleu » A Mile in Her Shoes
Sports................ pg. 6 » VB Alumni College Sports v. High School » Scoreboard » Schedule
Meet the Staff Allison Arthur Sarah Benson Ryan Brauneller Heather Clark Jessica Cunningham Laura Endicott Madison Endicott Michelle Flanagan Jessica Gilts
Brice Lawrence Caitlin Nieset Ian Rafferty Chandler Riffel Rachel Silver Jacob Szczublewski Jonathan Tobias Alisa Warren
News
Crazy for FFA Contests!
Make Your Mark Contd. Jessica Gilts
Adoption of an animal is one of the top ways to help out, but certainly not the only one. Services include playing with puppies, cleaning kennels, visits to nursing homes with the dogs and more. Check out their page for more information on how you can get involved: http://www.teddysrescue. org/#/volunteer
Courtesy of Van Buren Yearbook Staff
On Saturday, April 6, several FFA members traveled to Columbus to participate in Career Development Events (CDEs). These are contests that students take part in to obtain more knowledge in their future career field. These CDEs included dairy products, equine, general livestock and nature interpretation. Preparation begins several weeks in advance. On March 23, students participating in the contests traveled to Ashland High School for an invitational. This mock contest allowed members to preview the competition expectations. The students also completed an online exam before the contest.
Share the Song in Your Heart Michelle Flanagan
Courtesy of Van Buren Yearbook Staff
With the air getting warmer and the days getting longer, Van Buren’s fine arts department is buzzing again. This Friday and Saturday is The Association's Cabaret, and with that comes the Juried Art Show! Cabaret is put on by the show choir; students involved in the group can choose to perform an act. Typically, these acts consist of some type of musical performance. There are songs for every taste, ranging from classic piano to pop, and everything in between. During the intermission, the community room will be open for the audience to view the Juried Art Show. The Juried Art Show is full of great pieces from both middle and high school art students. The public has the chance to vote for their favorite, and that piece of work receives the “People's Choice” award. After the intermission, the second half of Cabaret begins. The Association ends the night by singing the traditional, “Go With A Song In Your Heart,” as a tribute to times of the past and times to come. Tickets will be on sale starting at 6 P.M., with shows starting at 7 P.M. both nights. Tickets cost $8 for adults and $5 for students and senior citizens. Be sure to come out to the auditorium this weekend to enjoy a night full of music and art!
Kenny Chambers, Brooke Klausing and Mackenzie Howard competed in the dairy products contest. Students participating in this contest tested their knowledge of the marketing of dairy products, judged the quality of milk and cheese, and solved problems consumers of dairy products might have. The team placed 20th out of 46 teams. Ashley Flick, Kaitlyn Kniss, Mackenzie Hiatt and Madi Holtgreven used the knowledge they have about horses to compete in the Equine CDE. For this contest they needed to be able to judge horses by their stature, identify horse equipment and tools, and also complete two practicums. As a team, they placed 62nd out of 132 teams. Hailey Lowden, Collin Hiatt and Sierra Lowden participated in the general Livestock contest. The students judged animals such as cows, goats, pigs and sheep. There were 145 teams that participated in the contest and the Van Buren team placed 107. “This was my first time doing the general livestock CDE,” states Hailey Lowden, Van Buren senior. “I’m glad that I did the contest because it will help me out during fair when I show my goats so I know what the judges will be looking for.” Jessica Gilts competed as a single person team in the Nature Interpretation CDE and placed 52 out of 141 people. For this contest participants examined specimens and equipment, identified bird and amphibian calls, and they were interviewed by a judge on taxidermy of small animals. “The spring State CDEs allow the members to interact with other FFA members from across the state,” states Ms. Bowersox, Van Buren’s Agricultural Education Instructor. “The reason that I like these contests is because there is a lot of tradition behind them.”
The Music Department Makes State! Jacob Sczczublewski
Both the band and choir programs have qualified for OMEA state competition this year. The band will be competing in Class C on Saturday, April 27 at 9 A.M. in the Findlay High School gymnasium. The choirs will all compete on Friday, April 26. The Men’s Chorus will compete in Class C at 7:40 P.M. in the Van Buren Elementary gymnasium, the Women’s Chorus in Class C at 8:45 in the Van Buren Elementary gymnasium, and the Varsity Choir in Class A at 9:50 in the Van Buren Elementary gym. Be sure to show up and support your Van Buren music department!
Zach Morgan Tournament: A soccer tournament held in memory of a Liberty Benton high school student whose life was cut too short. Get a team together or support in other ways by applying as a volunteer. Helpers can assist with set up/tear down, work concessions, keep score of games, and more. Volunteers are crucial to keep this event running smoothly. A two hour shift is pretty manageable, right? Apply now: http://www.zachmorgansoccer.com/volunteer/ Birchaven: If you are sixteen or older and find the elderly to be beyond adorable, this may spark your interest. Visit residents on a one-to-one basis, go fishing with them, run Bingo games, or show your talent with an event specifically featuring you. The elderly are people too, and appreciate company more than you can imagine. Pick up an application at Birchaven’s front desk. Riverside Park: This is the perfect opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy the summer day. Help with maintaining landscapes, planting, and shrubbery, assist with small repairs or painting, help out at the summer events and outdoor recreation programs held, and so much more! Their website provides a more in-depth list of specific ways you can contribute. Learn more about this nature packed opportunity here: http://www.hancockparks.com/Volunteer. aspx
Flex Your Muscles with Flex Credit Sarah Benson
Are you facing the challenge of fitting a physical education class into your high school schedule? Lucky for you, Van Buren offers a credit flex P.E. program. This program was first available starting two years ago and has since become increasingly popular. There are two different options available: program one, covering the 1st semester of P.E., and program two , covering the 2nd semester. To complete program one, students must log 50 hours of activity and for program two, 60 hours. Each activity can only account for up to 10 hours and involvement in a school sport practice cannot count towards hours; however, conditioning and open gyms can be logged. In addition to the activity hour requirement, each program also consists of a writing project. The writing assignment for program one is a lengthy packet of fill-in the blank statements about various sports such as bowling, tennis, and volleyball. Program two requires three essays. The best time to complete the credit flex physical education option is over the summer. If you decide to enroll, don’t be afraid to try new activities. The summer provides many opportunities to spend time outside while being active, whether it is swimming, golfing, biking, walking, or running the list of activities is endless. If interested in enrolling please visit Mr. Zender.
The Knight Life Pizza and a Barrel of Fun! Chandler Riffel
900 Interstate Drive is the new hottest dig to eat in Findlay. In case you don’t know, that is the new location for Beer Barrel Pizza & Grill, just off of Trenton Avenue, next to the movie theater. Greeting us as we walked in was a huge, ceiling length fireplace. The bar was towards the back of the restaurant and looked over the open floor concept. In front of the bar was about five or six, high top bar tables. I and accompanying best friend, Van Buren Student Olivia Godzak (17), were greeted by what looked like a manager and sat at one of the high tops. A very nice older lady named Patty came to our table, told us all the specials, got us our drinks and asked if we were ready to order yet. When we both agreed that we didn’t know yet she told us our actual waitress would be over shortly. It was a good ten minutes before Samantha, our ACTUAL waitress came to get our order. I decided what I wanted just minutes after Patty left. We didn’t waste any time with ordering when she came back; WE WERE HUNGRY! With that I decided on one of the specials, a pulled pork sandwich with fries and coleslaw for $5.50. Olivia ordered a Philly cheese steak sandwich with chips and coleslaw for $6.50.
Brice Lawrence
Courtesy of www.5throwjoe.com (fair use)
Back in the '40s, it was unheard of to have a colored man in the major leagues, which is why there was the Negro League. All of that changed when the owner of the then Brooklyn Dodgers, Branch Rickey, played by Harrison Ford in the movie 42, decided it was about time to sign a colored man to his team. He chose Jackie Robinson, played by Chadwick A. Boseman, supported heavily by his wife, Rachel “Ray” Robinson, played by Nicole Beharie. To start, Jackie is playing for the Kansas City Monarchs, where he is the star of the team. While on the bus to Chicago to play their next game, the Monarchs stopped at a gas station to fill up. The first signs of Jackie's will and strength come into play when that station owner tells him he cannot use the toilet because of his skin color. Jackie suggested the Monarchs go somewhere else for their 99 gallons of gas, this is enough for the station owner to let him use the toilet. Going into this movie, I expected this to be one of my favorite sports movies, and maybe even one of my favorite movies of all time. It delivered; 42 showed me everything I wanted to know about racism in baseball, and how Jackie Robinson got his start in the International League. The movie has more humor than expected sprinkled throughout the drama. Courage and well-played parts from the actors makes this movie a must-see for baseball and history lovers. Will Jackie get called up to play for the Brooklyn Dodgers? Will he quit before he gets there because of racism? Find out and enjoy!
A Look at Will Grayson, Will Grayson Jessica Cunningham
Courtesy of www.yelp.com (fair use)
We waited a good 20 to 30 minutes before our food was brought out by good friend, former Van Buren student, Taylor Fieger (19). She handed us our food and we reminisced with small talk and then she left us to enjoy our meal. The food looked indulging and steam was rising off the plates. The problem was quickly resolved and we went on our merry way with eating. My pulled pork was exceptionally tasty. It overflowed the buns and had a heavy flavor of honey barbeque. The fries were well seasoned and seemed as though they were hand cut and fried to perfection. I did my noble duties as a food critique and tried a bit of my friend’s Philly cheese steak sandwich. The pita bread was soft and easy to bite through and the steak was cooked to a nice medium well. The onions, red and green peppers, and mushrooms were all very nice accents to the steak making it a tasty full hearted meal. If I were to base my critique on a certain number of stars, I’d give Beer Barrel a four star rating out of five. The food was hot and the service from Patty was great, but for our server, Sam, she needs to step up her game. I recommend this restaurant to all friends and those wondering if they should spend the extra money on going out. I enjoyed my time there and can’t wait to go back.
Summary: First Will Grayson is best friends with the school’s shining star—Tiny Cooper: a big ball of openly gay joy that has a new love interest every hour. First Will Grayson has two rules for life: don’t care and shut up. Second Will Grayson is in love with Isaac, a boy he met online. Second Will Grayson is outcast, on depression medication, and unsure of anything in his life but his developing romance with Isaac. So, when a series of events lead the two Will Graysons to a porn shop in the middle of Chicago, their lives will forever be changed by the “other Will Grayson” as they work through the kinks of being or knowing someone who is gay in today’s society. Amidst this, they must deal with additional problems of falling in love, the pangs of growing up, and oddly figuring out how each to survive possibly the craziest play ever created by none other than the Tiny Cooper. Jessica’s Judgment: A very interesting and great book. It’s written back-and-forth between authors Green and Levithan, with each of them playing a different Will Grayson. The constant switching in writing style and drastically different personalities keeps the story interesting. I didn’t really enjoy the character of Tiny, he was a bit dimwitted for my taste, but his lack of shame at being gay is an inspiration for those that can relate. The book makes true strides when it comes to LGBT awareness. As well, both the Wills see the world through very cynical, sarcastic views and the way the authors describe some of everyday life events is fascinating. It’s a very thought-provoking and original idea of having two people with the same name meet and see what either of their lives can do for the other’s. Make sure you check it out today!
Heard in The Halls • Don’t sit on Flubby! • Wait….could Iowa fit in Canada? • My bus driver doesn’t care! If you’re not waiting, she will just leave! • I have your utter in my car!
Jessica Gilts
• He looks like he’d be a good kisser! • What if you just showed up somewhere and your ceiling was just gone? • There’s a reason Catholics don’t make dubstep…
SENIOR SPOTLIGHTS
Monique Walton Sarah Benson Monique Walton, a 2-year member of The Association, will end her show choir days on stage this weekend at Cabaret with the song “Go with a Song in Your Heart” sung by the entire group and alumni. Walton’s strong presence on stage is what won her the “Best Performer Award” at the Teay’s Valley Show Choir Competition. The preparation for Cabaret can be stressful and time-consuming, but Walton, a member of the varsity softball team, has managed to prepare for Cabaret while playing a softball game nearly every night. The third baseman and right outfielder is also a member of Van Buren’s state bound choirs, varsity choir and women’s chorus. Walton plans to attend The University of Toledo this fall and major in nursing. Monique, “Wherever life may lead you, may you go with a song in your heart,” your dedication to the music program and softball program at Van Buren will be missed. What songs are you singing for Cabaret? “Every Time We Touch” by Cascada and a cover of “I Won’t Give Up” by Cimorelli. Favorite show choir memory: My favorite memory would be winning the best performer award at our last competition. It was a great way to end my last show choir competition ever. Favorite show choir number: “Transylvania Mania” Favorite teacher: Mr. Rader Favorite school subject: English
Josh Pettry
Striving to be a better person every day, you can expect Josh Pettry to push himself in everything he does. “It’s not all about me. I make myself better for my team. If I work for myself I’m more likely to give up but for my team, I would do anything not to let them down.” Josh’s inducing efforts contribute to multiple team groups throughout Van Buren. Athletically, Pettry has been a part of the football team positioning as defensive tackle, nose guard, kick off and kickoff return for seven years. Continuing his second year in track and field, Pettry can also be seen hurling shot put or discus. In addition to his athletic career, Pettry has also been very musically involved playing the regular and pocket trumpet in the marching and concert band for four years along with contributions in the essentials for three. Despite Pettry’s success, he ensures the credit does not go to him. “I give the credit to God. He gave me strength, endurance, and helped in shaping my mindset and motivation.” Check out this year’s Cabaret performance or go to a track meet to see Pettry in action while you still can!
Laura Endicott
What do you want to be when you grow up? I’m thinking about possibly being an Orthopedic Surgeon or a Psychologist. Where do you plan on going to college? My plans for college are to either go to the University of Findlay or Owens to take basic classes and transfer later when I figure out what I really want to do. Photo courtesy of Marshall Photography Favorite football experience or success? My favorite Football experience would have to be when I trucked Zach Garber, the six foot ten giant. Favorite show choir experience or greatest success? Our Ada Music Feast performance: we made school history getting third place over all. We were the smallest group to be in finals. Something that a lot of people don’t know about you I like to write and read poetry. Advice you would give to shy people to break out of their shell? I guess just try to build up confidence to just be yourself. Half the time people accept you, and if they don’t then just ignore them and move on. There are plenty of other people in this world who will accept and appreciate you. Advice you would give to the under classmen in football/track? Push yourself all the time because in the end the hard work and effort will pay off. Be verbal leaders but more importantly, lead by example. The underclassmen look up to you and how you lead the team. They watch your effort and your attitude. Why do you have a love for music and sports? It was in both activities where I found/made my friends. I’m an only child so my teammates and fellow members are family to me. I have many things to take with me from all the memories and learnings from being involved.
ATTENTION SENIORS!
You have been chosen to be featured in a special edition of The Knight Writer to be published May 16, 2013! Surveys are currently being distributed and must be returned by April 23. Please see a Knight Writer staff member for more information.
Where are they now?
Her Victorious Secret Heather Clark
The odds of graduating from a small school in a little town of Ohio and later becoming part of a famous worldwide franchise are often slim to none. However, Tracy Deleu, previously Tracy Allen, beat the odds by pursuing her dreams and working for the one and only, Victoria’s Secret. Working as the creative director of photography, Deleu manages the art directors in the planning and execution of the photo shoots of supermodels that we, mainly us ladies, see as we flip through the pages of a Victoria Secret’s magazine in order to find the perfect bathing suit for summer. Aside from collaborating with graphic designers, copy writers, producers, merchants, and many others to build the catalog stories and ensure everything is on- brand, Deleu also takes part in going to the photo shoots herself! “Looking back, I would have never imagined any of this possible. But I followed my heart and I listened to my gut - and so far so good!” Aside from working at Victoria’s Secret, Deleu has a history definitely worth sharing. After attending Bowling Green State University where she majored in graphic design and minored in marketing, this Van Buren alumni of 1994 started
that offers that type of freedom. Even though the creative aspect is what she enjoys the most, she also considers it her biggest struggle. “I think most creative individuals have a secret fear of being viewed as not truly being creative. working at And the fact that we work in a very subjective field Express. When feeds into this fear. What is beautiful to one may she began not be to another. Having the ability to keep an directing open mind when faced with criticism while staying photo shoots true to yourself can be a daily challenge.” in New York City, she fell in At Victoria’s Secret, Deleu’s creativity is certainly love with the put to the test as she works in and outside of Big Apple and the office. Planning a shoot for a magazine and began saving website that is seen by millions across the world her money in order to move there. Her wish became requires understanding of the project and making reality and she moved to New York, landing a job at a sure everybody is working towards the same goal. very well respected advertising agency. As if her life “When planning for a shoot, the crew that you wasn’t great enough already, two years later Deleu select to work with is of the utmost importance,” met her husband and got offered a job in Seattle Deleu states. “The right photographer, model, hair, as the director of photography for Eddie Bauer! makeup, and set designer, is key to a successful This opportunity led her to many unforgettable shoot.” experiences including traveling the world, shooting in It’s evident that this woman’s talent drove amazing places such as Ecuador, Chile, Hawaii, Belize, her to become something bigger than anyone New Zealand, and more. Deleu’s timeline is filled with expected. Starting early, Deleu fell in love with endless examples of a life one can only dream about, a graphic design class that used to be offered at but with determination and passion she makes it Van Buren and this love drove her further than the all seem possible. During her career at Eddie Bauer, unimaginable. She has been fortunate enough to Victoria’s Secret offered her a chance of a lifetime and travel to beautiful places, work with super models, there was no hesitation to move back to New York and famous photographers, and some of the best pursue her dream job. talent in the industry. Don’t consider your dreams The opportunity to be creative is one thing that unreachable! With hard work and dedication, Deleu drove Deleu to follow her dreams and have a career proves that all goals can be achieved.
The Name’s Vaughn, James Vaughn Jacob Szczublewski
How many choir directors does it take to screw in a light-bulb? No one knows, because no one watches a choir director. Van Buren’s own choir director, Mr. Vaughn, agrees with the answer, but if you had talked to him in the third grade, however, he would have told you he had a dream of being someone everyone watches: the weatherman. This dream obviously did not last; in fact it was gone by the time Mr. Vaughn decided to become a music director in his sophomore year at Pike-Delta-York High School. “Originally, I had planned to be an instrumental director. After talking with my directors I realized I wasn’t versed in saxophone nearly enough, so I switched to choral music.” A fan of more than just choral music, Mr. Vaughn has a favorite composer for each musical era as well as enjoying some more modern music such as Dave Matthew’s Band and REM. He isn’t proud of all of his music based escapades, saying, “For a while I would obsessively listen to ‘What’s the frequency, Kenneth?’ by REM. Not one of my finer moments.”
Outside of school he maintains a website for a professional choral directors association, out of enjoyment for the “nerdy part”. Traveling is also a passion of his, especially in revisiting places like San Francisco. He also spends time watching classic films like Citizen Kane. His real passion is still in teaching music. “It’s not just the students that learn. It’s the audience too, and we get a pretty big audience around here.” What do you love most about teaching? That light bulb moment when the student just ‘gets it’. When everyone comes together and creates something they didn’t know they could. How do you feel about qualifying for state again? It isn’t that big of a deal. In the end, the rating isn’t what drives us. It’s the music. What is it about music that you enjoy so much? It just clicks. It moves me in a way that words alone cannot. How many years in a row has the choir gone to state? This is only the second year, due to the year that we switched from class B to class A. Before that we had seven years in a row. I feel that year was necessary, though.
Strut Your Style, Walk a Mile Alisa Warren The pain that women must endure for beauty; ladies everywhere sport their sky high stilettos, despite pinched toes and unsightly blisters, simply to look good. But on April 27, the tables will turn, as local men and boys strut one mile in high heels for the 5th annual Walk A Mile In Her Shoes. This event is held to raise awareness of domestic violence, and takes place at Riverside Park. All proceeds for this walk-athon will benefit Open Arms Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Center. Although this is a rare opportunity to see the men of the community totter around in high heels, it’s about something bigger. Violence against women is an international issue, and the statistics are staggering. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, every year an estimated 1.3 million women are victims of physical abuse
by intimate partners, and one in every four women will suffer from domestic violence in her lifetime. This parade of wobbly legs is a world-wide movement to help publicize efforts to stop these crimes against women, through raising awareness and funds for this special cause. Erik Glass, a Van Buren senior, enjoys participating as a walker in this event. “A few years ago, me and a couple friends ran it,” he said, referring to his favorite memory of the walk. Raising awareness for domestic violence includes both fun and importance. Embrace the chance to witness these noble men strut in their heels, so come out and support! For you guys out there, registration for this event is still open to all of those that are willing to ditch their manliness for a mile. Volunteers for the walk are needed as well. Just visit http://www.openarmsfindlay.org/ for more details!
Photos courtesy of openarmsfindlay.org
Vol. 1 Issue 11 April 18, 2013
SPORTS
This Isn’t High School Anymore Sarah Benson
For all of you athletes out there debating on whether or not to continue your athletic career at the collegiate level, here is an inside view on frequently asked questions answered by Van Buren alumni participating in college athletics. Will my options for a major be limited? Each major will require around the same amount of credit hours, the difference comes in how much studying and lab work will be required. Even with intense criteria for a major, college coaches will work with their athletes to try to schedule classes around practices. Sometimes that means an athlete will have 8 a.m. classes every day of the week, night classes, or the possibility of summer school. Rachel Adolph, a 2011 graduate of Van Buren and stand-out on the volleyball court, continued her volleyball career at Mount Union a division 3 institution where she is majoring in exercise science and minoring in psychology and biology. Adolph states, ”It can get pretty overwhelming, but having good time management skills really helps.” When choosing a major as a college athlete, don’t let the sport define who you are. You are a student-athlete. Student first, athlete second; so choose a major that best suits your interests and then work athletics around it. Katie Hertel, a 2012 Van Buren graduate and member of
Sports Schedule Ryan Brauneller
April 18, 2013 *Varsity Baseball vs. North Baltimore-5 PM *Varsity Softball vs. North Baltimore-5 PM April 20, 2013 Varsity Baseball vs. New Reigel-11 AM & 1 PM Varsity Track, St. Wendelin Invitational- 9:30 PM April 22, 2013 *Varsity Baseball vs. Arcadia-5 PM *Varsity Softball vs. Arcadia- 5 PM JV Baseball vs. Mohawk- 5 PM
Scoreboard Ryan Brauneller April 1, 2013 Varsity Baseball Van Buren-6 Old Fort-5 Varsity Softball Van Buren-8 Fostoria- 3 April 2, 2013 Varsity Baseball Van Buren-5 Patrick Henry-16 Varsity Softball Van Buren-9 Patrick Henry-3
Ursuline’s golf team advised, ”Keep up with your grades. You can’t become obsessed with your sport; grades are more important.” Does being a part of a college sport enhance or take away from the “college experience”? “I definitely believe that college athletics enhances the ‘college experience’,” stated Eric Wymer, a 2012 Van Buren graduate and cross country runner for Ohio Northern University,” I think it makes life more balanced.” There are numerous clubs and organizations at college that will be happy to have an athlete’s participation. Give these other extracurricular activities a try but remember that school and athletics must be your priority, especially if you are on scholarship. “I am in two clubs as well as two organizations,” Adolph mentioned,” It's definitely busy, but it is a great experience to be involved outside of your sport.” How do college athletics differ from high school? A common phrase “this isn’t high school anymore” is an accurate way to describe how college athletics differ from those of high school. The competition is harder, the pace of the game is quicker, and the level of talent is much higher.
Wymer spoke of the competition as that of state meet caliber, “Every meet I run in is like running in the state track meet because of the level of competition.” Not only is the opposing competition harder, but the inner squad competition is a whole new ball game. Adolph stated, “Every year more great players are recruited to play and compete for your same position. You either have to rise to the occasion or you won't get to play.” Not only is the caliber of play different but the practices require more time and effort than the high school 3 p.m.-5 p.m. practice. Clay Eaton, a 2009 Van Buren graduate and All-American football player for Oberlin College, discussed his college practices, “Practice consists of three hours of actual practice and three hours of film watching and working out during the season. During the off season, we have practice every single day except Saturday and Sunday.” College athletics isn’t for everyone, but if you are dedicated and passionate about your sport you should give it a thought. “You have to have a love for your sport in order to continue playing at the next level. It's too much hard work and time if you don't love it,” stated Adolph. If you’re willing to put in the time and effort to participate in sports at the collegiate level Eaton advised, “Don’t give up. If you really want to do it and you really love your sport stick with it. Work hard. A lot of hard work will get you a long way.”
April 23, 2013 *Varsity Track vs. McComb, Arlington, Hopewell Louden- 4:30 PM April 24, 2103 *Varsity Baseball vs. Arlington-5 PM * Varsity Softball vs. Arlington- 5 PM JV Baseball vs. Arlington- 5 PM April 26, 2013 Varsity Baseball vs. Tiffin Calvert-4:30 PM Varsity Softball vs. Tiffin Calvert- 5 PM April 27, 2013 * Varsity Baseball vs. Columbian- 10 AM & 12 PM * Varsity Softball vs. Columbian- 10 AM & 12 PM JV Baseball vs. Columbian- 10 AM & 12 PM Varsity Track, Bill Krause Invitational (Columbian)9:30 AM
April 3, 2013 JV Baseball Van Buren- 9 Lima Bath-3 JV Softball Van Buren-6 Arlington-11
April 5, 2013 Varsity Baseball Van Buren-3 Elmwood-4 JV Baseball Van Buren-6 Elmwood-14 Varsity Softball Van Buren-0 Elmwood-10
April 4, 2013 Varsity Baseball Van Buren-1 Miller City-11 Varsity Softball Van Buren-7 Miller City-2
April 6, 2013 Varsity Baseball Game 1: Van Buren-14 Bluffton-9 Game 2: Van Buren-14 Bluffton-3 Varsity Softball
April 29, 2013 Varsity Baseball vs. Leipsic-5 PM Varsity Softball vs. Leipsic- 5 PM JV Baseball vs. Hopewell Louden- 5 PM April 30, 2013 Varsity Track, Findlay Dual- 4:30 PM May 1,2013 Varsity Baseball vs. Liberty Benton- 5 PM Varsity Softball vs. Liberty Benton- 5 PM * JV Baseball vs. Liberty Benton- 5 PM May 2, 2013 JV Softball vs. Liberty Benton- 5 PM JV Baseball vs. Lima Perry- 5 PM
April 6, 2013 Game 1: Van Buren-1 Columbus Grove-16 Game 2: Van Buren-5 Columbus Grove-6 Varsity TrackGirls finished 2nd Boys finished 6th April 8, 2013 Varsity Baseball Van Buren-8 Pandora Gilboa-1 Varsity Softball Van Buren-15 Pandora Gilboa-3
April 9, 2013 Varsity Baseball Van Buren-7 Hopewell Louden-6 Varsity Softball Van Buren-0 Hopewell Louden-5 April 15, 2013 Varsity Baseball Van Buren- 10 Vanlue-11 Varsity Softball Van Buren-7 Vanlue-0 JV Baseball Van Buren-0 Liberty Benton-12