The Arrow | Fall 2019

ARROW THE

A SEQUOIT MEDIA AND ANTIOCH ATHLETICS PUBLICATION

THIS ISN’T THE END IT’S ONLY THE FALL SEASON

VOLUME 2 / ISSUE 1 / FALL 2019

SEQUOITMEDIA.COM / @SEQUOITSPORTS 1133 MAIN STREET / ANTIOCH, ILLINOIS / 60002

CONTENTS Fall 2019 > Volume 2 > Issue 1

08 FIELD HOCKEY’S RIGHT-HAND WOMAN

22 BORN TO RUN Natalie Svarc is taking her senior year by storm, inside and outside of the classroom.

In addition to her Sequoia EIC duties, she is looking to compete in cross country.

Paige Bolton uses her strong running skills and her ability to move about the field to make an impact on her team and opponents.

24 WATSON’S PATH TO GREATNESS

10 LAWRENCE RETURNS WITH SIGHTS SET ON SUCCESS AND SEASON BESTS

Beyond the field, people know Tre simply because of his presence in the hallways. For him, his character is what is going to take him to football greatness.

Matthew Lawrence ties his running shoes up and gets ready to put his best foot forward.

42 SEQUOIT SPIRIT STANDS STRONG

12 PRIMED AND READY TO DEFEND Trevor Niznik steps back on the field and is ready to help his team with goals on and off of it.

14 EAGLE EYED AND EXCELLENT With a challenging recovery in her rearview mirror, Pedersen is eager to get back into the swing of it for her senior season.

OUR COVER SHOOTS: REPRESENTATIVES OF OUR FALL SPORTS ARE PRIMED AND READY TO FIGHT THEIR WAY TO VICTORY, BUT THEY WANTED TO HAVE A LITTLE FUN WITH ONE ANOTHER FIRST IN OUR FIRST MAJOR PHOTOSHOOT OF THE YEAR. 16 REGNIER LOOKING TO ACE AN ATHLETIC FUTURE Regnier sets up collegiate goals one hit at a time, and she’s not stopping anytime soon.

18 SCHOENFELDER REFLECTS ON FOUR-YEAR GOLF EXPERIENCE

20 SELANDER SEEKS STATE BERTH

Niall Schoenfelder may be known for wrestling success, but he’s hoping to also make an impact in his senior season with golf.

This tennis team junior is looking to follow the statebound success of tennis alumnas.

They kick off the game and dazzle fans with sideline routines, but that’s not all the dancers and cheerleaders are concerned about this fall.

43 SIGNED, SEALED, SIDELINED Coming off of a summer of camps and practice means the Sequoits are staring down injuries and being benched.

FALL FUTURES LOOK BRIGHT The Sequoits look to take titles, break boundaries and compete for their best records in each program’s history.

Welcome to Antioch Community High School

An important component to our co-curricu-

and the 2019-2020 fall sports season. Our athletes

lar program is our Sequoit Sidekicks activities.

have put in many hours this summer training for

We would like to thank Gary and his staff at Pro

their competitions this fall.

Circle for allowing us to use their miniature golf

We are excited to be hosting several varsity tournaments this fall. The girls’ golf team hosted the District 117 Invitational with Lakes on August

course this fall for our students to participate in miniature golf.

Come the winter season, we invite everyone

24 at Spring Valley Golf Course. On September 14,

to attend our February 7 boys basketball contest

we will host the Roger Alm Boys Golf Invitational

against North Chicago as the newest members of

at Spring Valley Golf Course. The cross country

our ACHS Athletic Hall of Fame will be inducted.

programs host the 46th Pat Harland Invita-

These individuals include Mike Warren, Craig

tional at Fox River Park in Burlington, Wis., on

Prather, Mike Shay and Dave Zitkus. In addition,

Octobere 5. The Elaine Lonergan Girls Volleyball

Allie Anttila will be inducted into the Lake Coun-

Invitational will be held on October 12 at ACHS;

ty High School Hall of Fame.

this event is sponsored by The Deli Source.

Last school year, 20 of 22 IHSA eligible varsity

This year the award-winning Tom Tom staff is continuing to produce the sports program,

teams were recognized with the IHSA Team

The Arrow, in the sports media class. We hope

Academic Achievement Award for obtaining a

you enjoy the publication. This is a continued

3.0 overall grade point average among all team

endeavor by our students where curricular and

members. We would like to congratulate the

co-curricular programs are working together to

following teams that were recognized: boys and

recognize athletes and teams. We would also like

girls cross country, cheerleading, dance, boys and

to thank the Antioch Lions’ Club and Deli Source

girls golf, boys and girls soccer, boys and girls

for their donations that will go to fund college

tennis, boys and girls volleyball, boys and girls

scholarships for this year’s senior student athletes

basketball, bowling, baseball, softball, boys and

and sponsor the Ward Lear Athlete of the Year

girls track and field and lacrosse. Additionally,

Program. Lastly, the Antioch Community High

Dylan Czerlanis, Ben Nauman, Kevin Tebbe and

School Athletic Department, coaches and student

Drew Smith were named to the IHFCA All State

athletes would like to thank Raymond Chevrolet

Academic Team.

and KIA for its support of ACHS athletics with

Last year also saw several athletes obtain All-

the Big Play Program, which has donated approx-

State-State Medalist recognition. Dylan Czerlanis

imately $88,000 to our athletic program over the

was recognized as a Class 6A All-State football

past 19 years.

athlete by the IHSFBCA. Charlie Smith took 4th

Sequoit Pride continues their support of all

place in the state cross country meet and 2nd

Antioch curricular and co-curricular programs

place in the 1600 at the state track meet. Mike

through Sequoit wear sales and their annual

Volkmar (6th), Elijah Reyes (5th), Danny McPher-

dinner auction. This year’s event will take place

son (5th) and Alex Barbarise (6th) medaled at the

during the second semester.

state wrestling meet. Ayanna Tommy (5th, 100m),

support our student athletes as they represent

(3rd, High Jump) all medaled at the state track

Antioch Community High School. We ask that

meet. Piper Foote, Abby Pyburn, Ashlyn Sundell

you help us to represent ACHS positively to other

and Megan Lawrence were all recognized by the

schools by encouraging our student athletes

ICA for being all state in softball. Finally, two

while at contests and acknowledging great efforts

coaches also received recognition. Anthony Roc-

by all participants. It’s a great day to be a Sequoit.

co was selected as the Class 3A Sectional Coach the IHSSCA Person of the Year.

EXECUTIVE TEAM MERRICK W. FOOTE Editor-in-Chief

PATRICK R. JOHNSON, MJE Media Adviser AVERY J. FRASCH Associate Editor EMILY A. HIGGINS Community Outreach Director

EXECUTIVE CONTENT EDITORS Sarah M. Smith News Mollie T. Wagner Perspectives Bridget J. Nauman Longform Kara C. Galarneau Lifestyles McKenna R. Kalisz Brandon R. Pinto Rilee A. Schreiner Sports Alessia N. Rivera Executive Web Editor Madison R. McBride Kaitlyn A. Howe Copy Editor Valerie M. Rosek Photo Editor Emily Lara Kayla E. Grenke Design Editor

EDITORIAL BOARD Madisen M. Krapf Gavin R. Calabrese Evan M. Day Kyle A. Christian Brandon R. Reynolds Cassidy A. Thomas Grace R. Acello

STAFF Khalil J. Anderson Lucas M. Baronello Tyler J. Cook Collin K. Glassman Ethan R. Holmes Robert S. Hulting Athan A. Kaliakmanis Sofia C. Klem Ryan A. Komers Adam J. Lynn Kyle A. Miller Samantha J. Milliken Jadda C. L. Pope Alex K. Pritchard Elijah N. Reyes Grace A. Rowe Matthew P. Soberano Austin M. Stewart William R. Torres

We encourage you to come out this fall and

Chase Becker (8th, Discus) and Zach Grindly

of the Year and Charlie Trout was recognized as

THE ARROW STAFF

SEQUOIT MEDIA TEAM Iwona Awlasewicz, SBN Samuel Worden, Sequoia, Finesse

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT CHAIR Dee Andershock

ATHLETICS ADMINISTRATION Jim McKay, District Superintendent Eric Hamilton, Principal Steve Schoenfelder, Athletic Director Kim Humann, Athletic Administrative Assistant Mary Gumler, Athletic Administrative Assistant

STEVE SCHOENFELDER, ATHLETIC DIRECTOR THE PLAYERS > 3

BABIN

O’GRADY

Assistant Coach

KANYA

Head Coach

Assistant Coach

DEWING

BAILEY

Head Girls Coach

GLASHAGEL

Assistant Coach

ELLIS

PROFFITT

SWANSON

GILLESPIE

BECKER

Assistant Coach

PECHAUER

SHIFLEY

Assistant Coach

MUNDA

Assistant Coach

Assistant Coach

MAGNUSON

HICKEY

Head Coach

D’ANDREA

TROUT

Assistant Coach

Assistant Coach

BITTO

Assistant Coach

Assistant Coach

SIMONIS

Assistant Coach

WHITE

HAMILL

Assistant Coach

Head Coach

Head Coach

Assistant Coach

McNEILL

BRUNS

Assistant Coach

Head Coach

SKOOG

Assistant Coach

ATHLETICS

Assistant Coach

GORDY

Assistant Coach

TENNIS VAZQUEZ

Head Boys Coach

VOLLEYBALL

Assistant Coach

SOCCER

Assistant Coach

HLINAK

KARNER

Head Coach

BOYS GOLF

Assistant Coach

Assistant Coach

MAYER

Head Coach

REJC

Assistant Coach

WIEDA

GIRLS GOLF

DANCE

FIELD HOCKEY

Head Coach

CROSS COUNTRY

BABIN

FOOTBALL

CHEERLEADING

COACHING AND SUPPORT STAFF

COOK

ADMINISTRATION

Assistant Coach

HAMILTON Principal

STROM

Assistant Coach

HAREN

Assistant Principal

4 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

GUMLER

Admin Assistant

LEVERENTZ

Assistant Principal

HUMANN

Admin Assistant

McKAY

Superintendent

JOHNSON

Media Adviser

SCHOENFELDER Athletic Director

NAES

Trainer

NOTOLLI Trainer

Not Pictured: Taylor, Assistant Dance; McDermott, Head Soccer

NOW YOU’RE

SEEING

20 20

CHEERLEADING

T H E

SENIOR

FRASCH

GRENKE

KRAPF

MILLIKEN

POPE

VALDIVIA-VALENCIA

CROSS COUNTRY

SEQUOITS BAY

DAVIDSON

FOX

HIGHLEY

KOTLOW

LAWRENCE

LINCK

MENZIES

OSLAGE

PARKER

PYLES

REYES

SCHON

SMITH

SVARC

TICSAY Not Pictured: Powers, Kane

THE PLAYERS > 5

FIELD HOCKEY

FOOTBALL

BOLTON

FILIPEK

GRIFFIN

BUCCI

BUKOWY

DeBOER

HOLWAY

NOTTINGHAM

PATRICK

DeVAUGHN

FRIES

GAHIMA

SMITH

SORRENTINO

VOLKMAR

LAZARZ

MAGGIO

MEYER-SHAFFER

MONZON

PENN

REYNOLDS

SHAPUTIS

TURNER

WATSON

WILSON

WINES

Not Pictured: Amodeo

GOLF

CHRISTIAN

PALMIERI

DEVIENCE

SCHOENFELDER

ELDRIDGE

PEDERSEN Not Pictured: Lydick

6 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

Not Pictured: Muellner

SOCCER

AGUAYO

FOOTE

LYNN

PINTO

TENNIS

GOODMAN

HORNER

HUSSAIN

KISCELLUS

WARD

ZHA0

JOHNSON

Not Pictured: Forgie

VOLLEYBALL

McKILLIPS

NORDHAUS

MEISINGER

TOMMY Not Pictured: Rhodes, Galan

THESE SEQUOITS ARE LOOKING TO MAKE A NAME IN THEIR FALL SPORTS. HEAR WHY THESE VARSITY NEWCOMERS CHOSE THEIR SPORT: Quade Moll Freshman, Football “I've been playing since I was little.”

Callie Bemis Freshman, Field Hockey “To condition me until basketball season.”

Rex Eifert Sophomore, Soccer “I like the sport and have played my whole life.”

FRESH FACES

Jenna Pazdernik Freshman, Volleyball “It's fun and I've played for awhile now.”

Ariana Nikolov Sophomore, Tennis “Last year I was going to do it, but I missed the tryout. It sounded fun and a lot of my older friends recommended it.”

Alexa Phillips Sophomore, Cross Country “To get in good shape and try something new.”

EIFERT

MARTINEZ

NIKOLOV

Teagan Martinez Sophomore, Golf “I enjoy the sport because I get to do it with my friends.”

Evan Vazquez Sophomore, Soccer “I enjoy competing against others and meeting other great athletes who feel the same way as I do about the sport.”

VAZQUEZ

PHILLIPS

THE PLAYERS > 7

FIELD HOCKEY’S RIGHT-HAND WOMAN

BY AVERY FRASCH Being a leader doesn’t come easy for many people.

The qualities a leader must possess aren’t always a part of one’s personality. For senior Paige Bolton, being a leader comes naturally.

“The girls can ask me anything they need and I try to get to know and help them,” Bolton said.

This season will be Bolton’s fourth and final on the varsity field hockey team. After wanting to try something new her freshman year, Bolton caught on quickly and fell in love with the sport.

Not only does Bolton enjoy playing field hockey, but she also is one of the team’s most valuable players and leaders.

Bolton didn’t have a set position her freshman and sophomore years; those two years were used as trial and error to find where she fit in best. By the time Bolton’s junior year came along, she found her perfect fit on the field as the right midfielder. Because of her strong running background and ability to move throughout the field quickly, the right side of the field is where Bolton spends most of her time during games. The right is considered “the strong side” and it’s where most of the action takes place.

Bolton often uses field hockey as a way to let off steam; she spends her time at practices and games with her friends which gives her something to focus on and devote her time.

“Playing is enjoyable because it takes your mind off of problems or anything making you upset,” Bolton said.

“You can let your anger out on the ball and focus on something else other than what life is throwing at you.”

Since Bolton started playing on varsity her freshman year without years of experience under her belt, she felt she dealt with some tough criticism from older teammates. Bolton didn’t shut down and let the negativity affect the way she played; instead, she used it as motivation to improve her skills and become a better overall player.

Now that she is a senior and has an important leadership role on the team, Bolton is using her past experiences to influence how she treats the rest of her teammates.

“I know how it feels to be shamed for not knowing the sport or playing well, so I told myself to not treat any new players like I was treated during my younger years,” Bolton said. “I try to be as nice and open to the newer girls and make friends with all of them.”

8 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

With her strong willed personality and her ability to be a kind and

to improve their skills,” senior Kaylee Griffin said. “Whether it be

helpful teammate, Bolton is respected by her peers. Whether she’s

during a game or during practice, she is always working hard to have

giving advice for life or game-time situations, Bolton is someone her

the best possible passes and shots on goal.”

teammates know they can always count on for anything.

Bolton understands that being a leader doesn’t mean that help and

This season, Bolton is hoping to use her strong leadership skills and outgoing personality to help the team grow together and become

support from other teammates isn’t needed. She often uses her friends

the strongest they’ve ever been. With the help of her coaches and

on the team to bounce ideas off of and overall help one another im-

teammates, she is hoping to make her senior season the best one to

prove.

date.

“Paige is a leader because she is always willing to help people work

THE PLAYERS > 9

10 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

LAWRENCE RETURNS WITH SIGHTS SET ON SUCCESS AND SEASON BESTS

BY BRANDON REYNOLDS A fresh start is on the way for the boys cross country team this year. There are many returning faces and more new faces to the program.

“There are a lot of new faces to the team this year, which is unusual,” junior Walker Winkler said. “Although there are a number of new members of the team, the team gelled well since many of us were friends before joining the team.”

One of the returning faces is senior Matthew Lawrence.

Lawrence is coming back to the team after a year away from the sport.

“I didn’t run junior year, since I was taking a lot of time-consuming classes,” Lawrence said. “ I was also playing hockey, which took a lot more of my time. I didn’t play hockey this year so I could have more free time, as well as time to go out for cross country.”

After playing hockey for ten years, it was a hard choice for him to withdraw from the sport, but he believes that it will be worth it in the long run. Hockey requires a lot of mental toughness, but so does cross country.

Cross country is a sport that challenges one’s ability to stay competitive and on edge. This stress shows the athletes’ character through every up and down that they face.

“Matthew definitely brings a positive energy to the team,” senior Charlie Smith said. “He tends to stay fairly quiet but still leads by example. When he does talk, he isn’t complaining. He’s a very trustworthy guy on the team as well, which is why a lot of people look up to him even though he isn’t necessarily a vocal leader.”

Having an athlete on the team that sets a good example is a characteristic that all teams need. Even though Lawrence was not a part of the team last year, he shows his determination in a lot of different ways. Coming back from a year off is showing everyone on the team how badly he wants to come back stronger than ever.

“Missing a year of running is pretty detrimental to my stamina,” Lawrence said. “So I’m planning on working back up towards where I was prior to the break, and then exceeding that. It’s going to be difficult, but I’m up for it.”

Lawrence doesn’t back down from any challenge that comes his way. That is one of the personality traits that his teammates notice about him the most.

“I’m not a captain this year, but I’ll still play a leading role at most of the meets, as well as at practice,” Lawrence said.

It doesn’t matter if a person is captain or not, they can still be a leader. And that is exactly what he is.

With a fresh start for Lawrence, he wants to lead by example and not take anything for granted; he wants to make this season count.

THE PLAYERS > 11

PRIMED AND READY TO DEFEND

BY SARAH SMITH Coming back from a tough season last year, many returning mem-

Niznik said. “However, my education would come first.”

Sophomore teammate Evan Vazquez is another returning player on the team who hopes to have a more successful season than previous

bers of the boys varsity soccer team have high hopes for their 2019

years. More specifically, last year’s season, as they ended with zero

season. Junior defender Trevor Niznik expects to be successful as he

conference wins. Vazquez and Niznik’s similar hopes reflect the

takes on his third year of playing with the varsity team. He hopes to

strength of the teams’ mental chemistry as they work together.

reach the standards the boys and their coaches have set for the team this year.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how successful we will be,” Niznik said. “I wish to accomplish a record far better than last year. As a team, I hope we will be able to score at least once every game.”

After high school, Niznik hopes to continue his soccer career at the collegiate level and always performs as if scouts are watching.

“I would like to play soccer in college if offered the opportunity,”

12 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

“I hope our team will have more success and win [more than] we did last year,” Vazquez said. “We will reach this goal if we practice hard every day and learn what we need to fix to be successful as a team.”

Vazquez sees Niznik as a good teammate and a benefit to the team in multiple ways. Although Niznik is not one of this year’s captains, that does not discourage him from speaking out and sharing his feedback in hopes of making the team better.

“Trevor is a leader and a team player,” Vazquez said. “He gives us

While many players on this year’s team are striving for improve-

advice on what we need to work on and always has a positive attitude

ment and success, Niznik has other ideas in mind. His goal for the

while he motivates the team to do our best.”

team is to make it farther than last year and become a family while in

Although being labeled a captain is looked at as being superior to others, Niznik and his team know this isn’t the case. They believe that not one athlete is better than the other and they all have areas to

the process of going far in the playoffs. Ultimately, Niznik believes a close-knit team is the key to success.

“The most important thing a team needs is trust that your team-

improve. When it comes to giving constructive criticism, Niznik has

mate will back you up and be where you need [them] to be,” Niznik

always done an excellent job at it. Often, constructive criticism may

said. “Soccer has taught me about the importance of communication; I

help boost a team’s performance and chemistry by allowing players to

would say our chemistry is our biggest strength.”

be honest with one another while improving their individual skills and

The insight and maturity Niznik has both on and off the field is

playing styles. Niznik has learned from soccer alumni and captains,

something that makes him a leader whether it be with his classmates

that a leader will always be open and honest to better the team.

or with his teammates. While still having two more seasons to go in

“A leader, to me, looks like they would take ownership for their actions for better or for worse,” Niznik said.

his high school soccer career, Niznik is predicted to continue growing as a soccer player, a teammate and a leader.

THE PLAYERS > 13

EAGLE EYED AND EXCELLENT

BY KYLE CHRSTIAN Most people play golf as a stress reliever; it is something people can do with their buddies on a Sunday afternoon and afterwards go home and move on with their day.

For senior Emily Pedersen, however, it is a lifestyle.

“I try to give 110 percent effort all the time,” Pedersen said. “I get really hard on myself so I am always trying extremely hard to please myself.”

Along with the pressure she places on herself, Pedersen has also faced physical challenges throughout her career. Last year, she had a serious knee injury that ended her golf season.

“My knee challenges me the most because I had to skip a whole year of sports due to my ACL, MCL and meniscus tear,” Pedersen said. “I worked hard in physical therapy to have more strength than I did before tearing it.”

Pedersen had a really hard time getting back into the swing of things after her knee injury and was always skeptical about whether or not she would be able to compete at the same level she did prior to it. Despite the skepticism she continued working on her knee and her golfing ability until it finally paid off for her.

“I went to the driving range for the first time since my injury and realized I still had it in me,” Pedersen said. “All my hard work [at physical therapy] paid off.”

Since she has been back, Pedersen has learned a lot of lessons that she keeps in mind everyday when she’s on the golf course.

“I always tell Emily to stay focused, relax and visualize each shot and look at the risk over reward,” coach Bill Hamill said.

Sometimes the stress of returning back to the swing of things is hard for Pedersen. Luckily for her, she has friends that are able to help her laugh and stay positive.

“Inside of school we love to make TikToks with her during our Spanish class,” senior Paige Bolton said.

“Outside of school we love to hang out and get food at different places with all of our friends.”

Pedersen’s bubbly personality makes her willing to stop whatever she is doing in order to help someone that is in need, a skill that helped her gain a leadership role on the team. Growing up she was told that the golden rule is to treat people how you want to be treated. Not only does she help the new members of the golf team out if they ever ask for tips or tricks that they can use not only on the course, but off the course as well.

“She is a leader because she is always making sure

14 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

new players feel welcome and that they interact well with returning

varsity girls golf coach at Libertyville High School. Through him, she

players,” Coach Hamill said.

has developed her passion for golf.

Pedersen is also a person that will give advice to her friends when

After watching her dad practicing golf, she has been practicing

she feels they need it. For senior Miranda Chamberlin, one of her

non-stop and it has paid off; Pedersen is now one of the top golfers

close friends, she is always there for her.

on the girls golf team and has gained a lot of respect from her coach,

“She wants to be a psychiatrist when she’s older so she doesn’t mind talking through people’s problems,” Chamberlin said. “She listens and gives me advice about what she thinks would be right.”

As Pedersen progresses through her final year and moves on to college, she will have a lot of experience, not only from her successes, but also through her challenges that will help her advance rapidly through college.

For her, golf is not something to be taken for granted; it’s not just a sport to help her keep in shape or to get cum laude, she does it be-

teammates and friends.

Even though this is her last season, this is the time when Pedersen really has to push herself in order to truly become the best she can be on the golf course.

“I would love to see Emily qualify for sectionals because she has worked hard and deserves the honor,” Hamill said.

As her high school golf career comes to an end, Pedersen has decided to not continue playing golf at the collegiate level, but instead take the life lessons she has learned from golf and apply it to her life.

cause she has been interested in it for a very long time. Her dad is the

THE PLAYERS > 15

REGNIER LOOKING TO ACE AN ATHLETIC FUTURE

BY RILEE SCHREINER Some dreams seem out of reach, especially when they are the dreams of a junior and student athlete. College seems to be coming at a rapid speed, and for Grace Regnier the only one thing can slow it down and calm the nerves: a sport she has been playing for six years competitively, volleyball.

Regnier has the bar set high for her athletic career; coming from a competitive family, the pressure is on to be the best possible athlete she can be. Regnier doesn’t train in order to be the best on the court, Regnier knows the only person she should try to better than is herself.

“She has an athletic family and her older sister Lily played last year and is an amazing athlete,” coach Greg Burns said.

“Her parents are both athletic and supporting and Grace loves playing.”

For the past six years of her life, volleyball has been one of her biggest priorities. Not once has Regnier seen it as a job or as something she needs to do; she cherishes every second spent with her teammates on and off the court.

“She is a great young lady who respects both her teammates as well as her opponents, and just loves to be on the court,” Burns said.

With such high expectations from coaches and peers, she has even higher goals set for herself. Everyone who knows her, from classmates to teammates, knows she won’t stop until she achieves every one of them. From private lessons to just a friendly game of beach volleyball, Regnier takes every moment on the court as an opportunity to get better.

“She pushes herself very hard at club practices to make herself stronger and better,” teammate junior Maiah Moll said.

Not only does she push herself on the court, but off the court as well. Being a student athlete comes with its own struggles, but being an athlete who doesn’t have an off season comes with a different set of challenges, yet Regnier chooses not focus on the bad. When tough losses happen or she doesn’t play her best game, volleyball is still the one constant that has never failed to bring her joy.

“I don’t think I’ve ever had doubts about volleyball,” Regnier said. “I love the sport and if something goes wrong I think that there is always a way to find a solution.”

16 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

Through the stressful thoughts of college and everyday hardships in life, volleyball has always been her go to for advice.

Whether she is struggling in school or with friendships, volleyball is her way out of her head.

“Volleyball is important to me because it’s how I can escape from whatever else is going on in my life,” Regnier said. “It has led me to meet lots of new people and taught me to have priorities on what’s important.”

Regnier’s quiet demeanor in the classroom does not reflect the way she plays on the court.

“She [is a] hard worker in the classroom and on the court,” Burns said. “[Grace] plays with confidence. She knows the game, she can see weaknesses in her opponents and help her teammates take advantage of them.”

Last summer volleyball was going extremely well for Regnier, but with playing a fast paced sport comes injuries. The summer before her sophomore year, she tore two ligaments in her ankle. This caused her to be out the entire season of her sophomore year. With the injury came the hard times. In the months of healing, Regnier thought about how her heart beats for volleyball; with every waking day she wanted to be back out on the court playing like it was the last time. In these moments, she knew how hard she was going to need to work to get back on the court.

“During my injury, I kept thinking about if it’s going to happen again, how long I will be out for and if it was going to be hard to recover from,” Regnier said. “It definitely made me realize how much I love playing volleyball because I always wanted to be playing with my team and my teammates.”

This season, Regnier is ready to be back on the court. She plans to bring her hardwork and dedication with her. With support from teammates and coaches, everyone is ready for the season to begin.

“It is always fun to play with her and we don’t get to do it all the time,” Moll said. “We are looking forward to making high school memories together and just advancing in our athletic career together.”

Regnier is looking forward to her junior season as it will begin to open up college recruitment opportunities. She wants to play Division 1 collegiate volleyball and she is willing to do whatever it takes to get there.

THE PLAYERS > 17

18 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

SCHOENFELDER REFLECTS ON FOUR-YEAR GOLF EXPERIENCE

BY CASSIDY THOMAS Despite wrestling being a popular sport in the Schoenfelder family, senior Niall Schoenfelder also finds his interests in other sports.

While participating in wrestling in the winter and track in the spring, he also likes to play golf for the school in the fall season.

“Ever since I’ve started [playing golf] I’ve loved it,” Schoenfelder said. “Golf is fun because it’s a challenge for me to get better and better.”

Schoenfelder started playing golf on the team his freshman year of high school to try it out and since then he’s gone to the course every other day to improve his skills. He often plays with senior Gavin Eldridge, who is also on the varsity team.

“We work together by recommending tips to help improve our swing,” Schoenfelder said. “[The team] supports each other by keeping the mood light and not putting focus on any bad shots.”

Being an upperclassman, Schoenfelder often takes on a leadership role of the team. Despite golf being an individual sport, Schoenfelder works to make it a supportive environment as if it were a team sport.

“What makes him a good leader is that he forms relationships with everyone on the team and he sets a good example for what everyone else should do,” Eldridge said.

Despite the team environment, Schoenfelder and Eldridge both have competitive sides that come out on the course.

“Niall has pushed me to get better because we both compete with each other and neither of us wants to lose,” Eldridge said. “Niall keeps the energy of the team high and makes everyone laugh.”

Being a three-sport athlete can be a challenge for some people, but for Schoenfelder it’s the perfect pathway for college.

“Doing multiple sports allows me to work with muscles I wouldn’t typically use if I only did one sport,” Schoenfelder said. “I plan on wrestling in college, but I also enjoy golf and track and field.”

In addition to making him a well-rounded athlete, golf has also been a great way for Schoenfelder to meet and connect with new

people. The new head coach, Michael Hickey, has had a big impact on how Schoenfelder plays and performs on the course.

“Mr. Hickey keeps the nerves from affecting me by making jokes and making it hard to remember my bad shots,” Schoenfelder said.

When Schoenfelder showed up freshman year to play, Hickey, then the assistant coach, knew he could be a valuable player.

“My first impression of Niall was the same as it is whenever I see someone who is new to the game, which is they will need a bunch of practice,” Hickey said. “Niall was different because it was evident that he was a good athlete, which makes improving so much easier. He understands how his body moves, which is key to being a consistent golfer.”

Hickey, being a multi-sport athlete in high school as well, spotted a well-rounded athlete when he saw one. He recognized that Niall was more than physically strong; he had other qualities to make him an impressive athlete.

“Niall is a good athlete because he is strong, flexible and can consistently make the same swing,” Hickey said. “I think Niall’s biggest strength is his mental toughness. He does not get too excited or too down while playing. This is a key component that many golfers lack.”

With all the skills he has acquired, Schoenfelder is already looking ahead to the season to see how he can accomplish applying them. This year means a lot to him because this will likely be the last time he plays golf competitively alongside his teammates.

“I feel like my role this year is to be a leader and help the team step up,” Schoenfelder said. “I feel that we can make a run at conference and regionals, but we’re all going to have to step up.”

Hickey recognizes this, too, and is ready to prepare the team for the season. With new players coming into high school this year, Schoenfelder is ready to guide the team to success.

“Niall is what I call the quiet leader,” Hickey said. “He leads by example and is very calm. This is exactly what we need with such a young team this year.”

THE PLAYERS > 19

SELANDER SEEKS STATE-BERTH

BY EVAN DAY Taking the step from underclassman to upperclassman is a big move in high school. Student’s are getting closer to becoming the person they are meant to be.

Every little step taken in high school can dictate one’s future—inside and outside of school. For junior Audrey Selander, tennis is something she relies on to help her mature and face the world. She also finds herself in the predicament of replacing a state qualifier this season.

“We’ve been working a lot on our shots up at the net,” Selander said. “We’ve also been working on adding power to our serves, just like Piper [Foote] had.”

Selander has a challenge in front of her with filling the shoes of a state qualifier, but her hopes are high and she stays determined.

While Foote and senior Sierra Ward both headed down to state last year to represent the girls tennis team, the players were blessed with the opportunity to learn the game from “some of the best to do it at Antioch.” Selander is working to become the best person and tennis player she can, and she’s fortunate enough to be able to do it with her team. Fayth Vesser, one of Selander’s teammates, has nothing but positive things to say about Selander.

“She’s very consistent,” Vesser said. “[She] has strong shots. She’s very competitive and has team spirit“. Selander isn’t only a respectable force on the court, but is also a kind heart off of it. When it comes to getting the job done, coaches look for players who aren’t afraid of stepping up. While Ward returns to fight her way to another trip down state, Selander is impressing coaches and looking to punch her ticket.

“I’m expecting her to be really successful,” head girls tennis coach Jamie D’Andrea said. “She’s going to face good competition, but maybe not the strongest.”

Over the summer, Cori Gauff, a 15-year-old professional tennis player took the sports world by storm. Selander, being a tennis player around the same age, finds Gauff to be a significant role model in the sport.

“She’s an inspiration of mine,” Selander said. “Especially because she’s around my age. She makes me want to work harder everytime I touch the court.”

Gauff isn’t Selander’s only inspiration. Her start in the sport began with a nudge by someone close: her mother.

“I started tennis my freshman year,” Selander said.

“My mom did it in high school and always wanted to get me into it, and it’s been a great way to meet new friends.

20 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

THE PLAYERS > 21

BORN TO RUN

BY BRANDON PINTO Running, whether it be for fun or to be competitive, is a sport Natalie Svarc is drawn to.

As college is approaching for upperclassmen, running at the collegiate level is in the picture for many, including Svarc. But for now, she has a goal set to bring her team to sectionals.

“Last season the girls team made it to sectionals, which was a huge accomplishment for us since we have not made it for the last couple of years,” Svarc said.

With her success both UW-Lacrosse and UW-Stevens Point have reached out to Svarc for a possible spot on their teams.

These schools have noticed the dedication and hardwork that she puts in; Svarc ran roughly 300 miles during summer break in order to help her prepare for the upcoming season.

“I also competed unattached for the USATF Junior Olympics and I made it all the way to nationals where I placed 6th for the 2000 meter steeplechase,” Svarc said.

Bringing her summer experiences into the new season, Svarc hopes that it all pays off once regionals come around.

Being a captain on the team, Svarc had to fill the shoes of previous captain Natalie Hill a graduated runner who Svarc watched closely in preparation for her turn to lead. With that in mind, Svarc has taken up the role with confidence in her leadership.

Fellow teammate and junior, varsity runner Amber Carson has been just one of the people whom have been affected by Svarc’s presence on the team.

“Natalie is positive, ambitious, diligent and persistent,” Carson said. “All of her qualities affect the team and make us do better as a whole; because of her [the team] is excited to go to practice.”

One thing every team should have is a person with a positive attitude: a person who is capable of lifting others up and building spirit. Captains are determined based off of a team vote, rather than being chosen by the head coach; it was a clear decision to have Svarc as the next captain during her senior year.

“She leads by example and I feel that her encouragement, along with positivity, brings other together,” Chris Bailey said. “As a captain that is what [the coaches] need our champions to do.”

Svarc has accepted her leadership role with excitement.

Although surrounded by personal friends, Svarc emphasizes a difference between a captain’s mentality and a runner’s. When it

22 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

comes down to business she is able to hone in and get work done this could be anywhere from her individual accomplishments or simply leading the team in a work out.

“I view Natalie as both a captain and a positive teammate,” Carson said. “She is very motivational and the perfect person to look up to. I can’t imagine what the team would be like if she wasn’t there.”

In order for the team to succeed it is very important for runners of all levels to feel like they are included and contributing to something greater than just individual victories.

“Natalie certainly has the ability to lead the younger kids and that is what we need from a veteran,” Bailey said. “We need her to take the freshmen, sophomores and juniors and get them to believe in the team and everything in which the program stands for.”

Svarc motivates her teammates : when someone is upset about how their performance is, she will pick them up and help them improve; she takes her teammates opinions into consideration and will help change workouts to fit each individual.

“During practice when she runs by she will high five me and the others around, while also motivating them verbally,” Carson said. “At the end of her runs she always asks how our workouts went and helps us see the good in running even when we are hurting.”

Looking at where Svarc started shows how much she has done with her running. She participated in middle school cross country and track and field. Over the years, Svarc developed a love for the sport that has helped shape the person she is today.

“If you take her from freshman year until now, her performance and times have improved,” Bailey said. “She has put the time in during the season as well as during the off-season and she has always made sure to train hard.”

This ties in with getting the underclassmen and other levels of runners truly involved and passionate about what they do. No matter what team the runners are on, they still are a part of cross country and contribute to the program. Everyone starts somewhere, so with hard work and dedication they can move their way through the ranks.

“I really noticed that last winter in the off-season she was exhibiting a pace which was much faster than it was the previous two years along with an improvement in her strength,” Bailey said.

THE PLAYERS > 23

24 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

WATSON’S PATH TO GREATNESS

BY ADRIAN RUIZ Senior Treshawn Watson has always been considered a star on the football field, but it wasn’t until high school that

other because they know that succeeding is the only way to get anywhere in life. Their only goal is to succeed and to be the best.

The team fell short of a state title last year, but they are

he started to get recognition for his hard work. Watson moved

looking for redemption. Watson and his teammates all believe

up to varsity his freshman year for the playoffs, but didn’t

they owe it to themselves to be the very best. With Watson

get the action that he desired; come sophomore year he blew

and his supporting cast of teammates, they should have no

up on the scene and played a pivotal defensive role: starting

problem playing together and repeating their past achieve-

cornerback.

ments with the amazing coaching staff. Every team has goals

Ever since then, he has turned his career around, getting

in mind for the season, but with Antioch and their mentality,

an enormous amount of reps on both sides of the ball and

they expect to make it far in the playoffs and to continue on

showing how versatile he truly is.

to state.

Watson hasn’t always focused solely on football. He has

“This upcoming season I expect to go 9-0 and win the con-

always been a multiple-sport athlete playing basketball,

ference again,” Watson said. “With hard work and dedication,

football and running track. But in recent years, Watson made

our team has potential past a conference championship.”

the choice to stop playing basketball and to pursue football

The team in itself is giving it their all this season so they

full time with track still being in the picture, so he made the

can make history for their hometown. They would love to

decision so he can work on his speed and explosiveness as a

leave a mark on this year’s conference and to forever solidify

wide receiver. Watson saw this decision as a win for his team

themselves as a great football team by winning Antioch’s first

and himself.

state championship.

“Football has put me on the right path,” Watson said. “I

Watson has always dreamt of winning a state champion-

wouldn’t want anything different because the benefits and

ship ever since he first started to play football, as he transi-

opportunities you get from playing football are like no other.”

tions into his last season playing for Antioch, the possibility

Ever since Watson was four, he’s loved football and has

of contending for this year’s championship is surreal to the

never let that love go. Watson has always seen football as a method to get away from all the noise and stress of the world.

young wide receiver.

“We have so much talent on this team,” Watson said. “We

He has a strong supporting cast behind him of his mother

are more than talent; we are a team that lives and breathes

who has gone to all the games throughout Watson’s years of

football and we’re all ready to get thrown into the fire.”

being an athlete. Watson looks up to his mother for all she’s done for him.

“My mother has sacrificed so much for me and my family,”

Watson and many others have received college nods and are grateful to have the opportunity to continue their careers after this season. Saying that, Watson is going into his senior

Watson said. “She’s done so much for us, to the point of

season with 13 Division 1 scholarships. To say that Watson

where I want to be the very best and give back to her for all

is excited for this year’s season is a huge understatement; is

she’s done.”

ready to blow past the competition and win the state champi-

Watson and his mother both expect the best from each

onship just like he’s always dreamed.

THE PLAYERS > 25

CROSS COUNTRY SEEKS REDEMPTION Teams plan to run for state placement and growth.

BY KYLE MILLER The boys and girls cross country team are looking to have a fantastic season this year.

Their hopes are high and so are the goals they have set for milestones this season. The assistant coach, Ryan Hlinak, has a lot of expectations for his runners this year.

“I hope our boys team wins conference and [I’d] love to see if they can make it downstate as a team,” Hlinak said. “For the girls, hopefully, we can get an individual downstate or at least get our team to qualify for sectionals.”

Returning from an outstanding performance last year, senior Charlie Smith, who placed fourth at the State Championship, is currently dealing with an injury. But he isn’t going to let that stop him from dominating the competition this year and reaching the goals he has set for

“My number one goal this year is to qualify for the state meet as a team,” Smith said. “I believe Antioch has never had a cross country team qualify and I would love to be a part of the first.”

Smith has been spending time to ensure his recovery will be a speedy one. He has been spending this time so he can return and lead his team to the next level, and make history for all the Sequoits back home.

“To overcome my injury I do a lot of recovery techniques,” Smith Said. “I have learned a lot about my body through this process and have realized that it doesn’t take me a whole lot to get back into good shape.”

Forming an all-conference, state-qualifying team may not be an easy road for the Seqouits.

But, with a strong sense of attitude and a hard-working mentality, this year for the boys cross country team could be something special.

On the girl’s side of things, some of the athletes have high hopes and expectations for what they can accomplish this year. Along with the coach having a good feeling, junior Amber Carson has set up some goals for herself, as well as her team.

“This year for cross country, I would really like to move forward as a team,” Carson said.

“We all get along and I love how close we are, but improving is best when you have a team that works together.”

With high expectations from their coaches and individual goals driving the boys and girls, there is a lot of potential and room for great things to come out of both sides of the team this season.

himself, as well as his teammates.

[TOP] Coach Bailey, Sarah Benes, Kristi Schon, Tiana Fox, Katelyn Opel, Coach Hlinak [MIDDLE] Amber Carson, Juliana Gonzalez, Maya Schon, Lily Highley, Alexa Phillips, Natalie Svarc, Chloe Hampson [BOTTOM] Jasmine Ametovski, Annabelle Guerra, Rayvn Edran, Arianna Guerra

26 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

[TOP] Charlie Smith, Nolan Scofield, Leo Vazquez, Tyler Oslage, Jack Bay, Matthew Watkinson, Josh Linck, Ryan Johnson [SECOND] Coach Bailey, Charlie Haling, Kyle Miller, Owen Lane, Jake Linck, Ben Ticsay, Braxton Schieler, Walker Winkler, Coach Hlinak [THIRD] Noah Krusely, Lucas Baronello, Alex Wisdom, Logan Parker, Logan Phillips, Kole Powers, Elijah Reyes, Luke Menzies, Nathan Valdez Maldonado, Ecin Stout.

[BOTTOM] Matthew Lawrence, Keno Barba, Kaleb Kotlow, Joey Pyles, Ben Georgia, Tyler Davidson

SCHEDULE [09.07] at University of Wisconsin-Parkside @ 9:10 a.m.

[09.10] at Fox River Park @ 4:45 p.m.

[09.14] at Peoria Detweiler Park @ 9 a.m.

[09.17] at Central Park @ 4:45 p.m.

[09.21] at Warren-O’Plaine Campus @ 9 a.m.

[09.28] at Harvest Christian Academy @ 8:30 a.m.

[10.01] at Foss Park @ 4:45 p.m.

[10.05] at Fox River Park @ 9 a.m.

[10.07] at Fox River Park @ 4:45 p.m.

[10.12] at Wheeling Heritage Park @ 9 a.m.

[10.19] at Cooks Park / NLCC [10.22] at Prospect High School @ 4:30 p.m.

[10.26] IHSA Regionals [11.02] IHSA Sectionals [11.09] THE MEET OF THE SEASON

2018 SEASON BY THE NUMBERS

BOYS TEAM Went undefeated in conference meets Took 2nd place in all NLCC Qualified for the sectional meet Charlie Smith was the NLCC champion and took 4th place in state GIRLS TEAM 5-2 in conference meets Took 5th place in the NLCC Qualified for the sectional meet 3rd place at the Harvest Christain Invitational

YOU CAN’T MISS THIS

IHSA State NOVEMBER 9.

Following @SequoitSports on Twitter won’t be enough because you won’t be able to miss out on this game. Make sure to mark your calendars because the Sequoits need you there to see all the action.

SEQUOIT TO WATCH CHARLIE SMITH senior

5 feet 11 inches, 138 pounds “Charlie was the fastest boy last year and a returning all-state athlete,” cross country Coach Ryan Hlinak said. “ I genuinely believe that he will be a state champion this year as long as he can stay healthy.”

CHARLIE SMITH

MICHAEL VOLKMAR

2018 RUNNERS ALL-CONFERENCE

LUCAS BARONELLO

SARAH BENES THE TEAMS > 27

FIELD HOCKEY FIGHTS FOR RECOGNITION As the lone non-IHSA sport, the Sequoits push for respect, wins

everyone’s strengths and specialties. One of those specialties includes their relationships with

BY MADISEN KRAPF

istry in the field and we know how to work together.”

With the hustle and potential that the field hockey team encountered last season, they are more prepared than ever to focus on the buildup of their success this season With every season, there is change: seniors leave and the juniors are ultimately the new role models for the team. Senior Mikayla Holway is looking forward to leading the team, along with the other seniors, and working hard to get results.

“We have a really good team dynamic,” Holway said. “If we keep that consistent throughout the season, we’ll win games and finish the season strong.”

Since many of the team members have been playing together for years, they have a feel for

each other on and off the field.

“We all have really good bonds, especially the seniors,” Holway said. “We have better chemThis year the team is hoping to come in strong by utilizing all of their different skill sets.

With a new team dynamic, this year is going to be interesting to watch unfold.

“We all have a lot of different skill sets on the team that we need to blend together,” Holway said.

A few specific players have been stepping into the spotlight recently, and many of their teammates use that as inspiration.

“I think Hailey Webb has really been shining,” Holway said. “She is a three-sport, varsity athlete and she is very dedicated to the success of her sport.”

Holway also sees the light that certain seniors bring to the team; senior Pagie Bolton, for example, has continually brought her all in practice and is certain to bring that effort into games.

Not only is the team stepping up to fill the holes left by those who have headed off to college, but they are stepping up on the field, with one goal in mind, to win.

One such athlete would be junior Isabella DeMartini, who is striving to make an impact this season by pushing everyone to their limits. She does this with the hopes that the team can achieve a better record than the previous year. “[The team] plans on building their communication skills and teamwork in order to leave this season with satisfaction,” DeMartini said.

[TOP] Coach Emily Mayer, Jamie Nottingham, Hayden Sorrentino, Alli Curry, Rachel Filipek, Paige Bolton, Coach Terry Dewing [MIDDLE] Molly Volkmar, Katie Quirk, Mikayla Holway, Clair Patrick, Mollie Tubbs, Hailey Webb [BOTTOM] Kelsie MacMillen, Kaylee Grifin, Katie Amodeo, Sara Smith

28 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

[TOP] Coach Emily Mayer, Campbell Lazarz, Sophia Semersky, Madeline Monroe, Madalyn Amodeo [MIDDLE] Faith LaCerba, Maggie Volkmar, Kaitlin Lenox, Callie Bemis, Reagan Brewer, Isabella DeMartini [BOTTOM] Maranda McNeany, Allyson Amodeo

SCHEDULE [09.09] at Lake Forest Academy

[10.01] at Glenbrook South @ 6:15 p.m.

[09.12] at Stevenson

[10.02] Homewood-Flossmore

[09.17] Deerfield @ 6:15 p.m.

@ 6:30 p.m.

[09.18] St. Ignatius College Prep

[10.10] at Lake Forest @ 6:30 p.m.

@ 6:15 p.m.

[10.15] THE GAME OF THE SEASON

[09.23] at Francis Parker School

[10.17] Glenbard West @ 4:30 p.m.

[09.25] Highland Park @ 6:15 p.m.

YOU CAN’T MISS THIS

Sequoits Vs. Lakes Eagles

OCTOBER 15. 4:15 p.m. LAKES.

SEQUOIT TO WATCH

HAILEY WEBB

junior, center-forward 5 feet 3 inches Webb has been playing field hockey for three years and she has been on varsity. Over the years Webb has been improving on her game tremendously. For the 2019 season Hailey is determined to be better than she was last year.

2018 SEASON BY THE NUMBERS

Following @SequoitSports on Twitter won’t be enough because you won’t be able to miss out on this game. Make sure to mark your calendars because the Sequoits need you there to see all the action.

GOALS SCORED

26

26

GOALS ALLOWED THE TEAMS > 29

FOOTBALL LOOKING TO TAKE STATE TITLE Passion and tenacity to be core tenants of 2018 season.

start the year off going 1-0. This will be a great playoff atmosphere type game.”

BY ATHAN KALIAKMANIS

ing loss, there will be a lot of pressure for the Sequoits to bring home a win in their home

Despite Kaliakmanis’s optimism, their first game at Lake Forest didn’t end in a win. The back-and-forth battle ended 7-10 in favor of the home-team Scouts. Coming off of season-openopener.

The Antioch Sequoit football team return

“This game is going to be fun,” senior Ryan Shaputis said. “The atmosphere will be amaz-

to the field this season, coming off of winning

ing. There is a lot of pressure this season for us. I feel like our team performs very well under

three consecutive Northern Lake County Con-

pressure. ”

ference championships and hoping to make it to

The Sequoits went 9-0 for the past three seasons and planned on doing it again. Although

the state finals. With a number of returners and

the Sequoits lost some of their varsity starters to graduation and didn’t take home the sea-

starters, the Sequoits have high expectations for

son-opening win, they still feel confident and ready to play.

the 2019 season.

“Our goal this year is to win a state championship,” junior Dino Kaliakmanis said. “Right now, we are focused on week one. We want to

“Our team is young this year having 11 starters graduate,” junior Max Ness said. “Our team is looking very confident and they look like they’re ready to play.”

The Sequoits look forward to leaving a good impression this season, hoping to not only bring home their fourth consecutive conference championship win, but also hopefully a state title.

[TOP] RJ Shaffer, Bobby Wines, Andrew DeBoer, Treshawn Watson, Athan Kaliakmanis, Dino Kaliakmanis, Jackson DeVaughn, Elkanah Gahima, Douglas Schultz, Shaun Keever [SEVENTH] Ryan Shaputis, Victor Monzon, Peyton Bardecki Jackson Gutke, Jackson Fries, Ethan Holmes, Lucas Bentley, Briar Russell, Kyle Bukowy, Chris Penn, Andrew Tindell [SIXTH] Joe Haight, Gavin Malicki, Leo Reband, Aiden Weir, Andy Bowles, Jayden Marquis, Lyndon Turner, Dean Wilson, Paul Adams, Brandon Renyolds, Kobe Kriese, Tyler Kaufmann [FIFTH] Diego McKenzie, Adam Pankau, Dakota Drije, AJ Kutcher, Anthony LaCerba, Max Ness, Jeffrey Henderson, Logan Angus, Jonathan Lind, Caden Jimenez, Stone Case, Logan Rosenthal, James Meiste [FOURTH] Wesley Anderson, Colin Chamberlin, Hunter Klotter, Nick Bucci, Ben Wilson, Patrick Sheehan, Sean Wagner, Joey Mentone, Max Vazquez, Joan Mendez, Joe Maggio, Spencer Lazarz, Evan Day, Jack Fritz [THIRD] Joseph Wanke, Trainer Ryan Naes, Coach Dave Proffitt, Coach Andy Bitto, Coach Mike Gordy, Coach Jim Rejc, Coach Rico Ellis, Head Coach Brian Glashagel, Coach Mike Karner, Coach Mitch Munda, Coach Ryan Shifley, Coach Del Pechauer, Athletic Director Steve Schoenfelder, Trainer Bryn Nottoli, Anthony Hall [SECOND] Kevin Texis, Jake Herstowski, Roberto Dominguez, Tom VanSickle, Matthias Madigan, Brett Svarc, Gavin Calabrese, Sharon McAllister, Hunter Bukowy, Khalil Anderson, Jacob Moisa, Austin Vasquez, Brock Sooley, Anthony Lind [BOTTOM] Sofia Klem, Desiree DuPont, Zoey Kue, Reino Hill, Jack Baker, Michael Labicki, Eddie Tindell, Logan Kroft, Lily Ocampo, Mazi Holt, Paytin Rasmussen, Alley

30 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

SCHEDULE [09.06] Woodstock North @ 7 p.m.

[09.13] at Grayslake North @ 7 p.m.

[09.20] at Wauconda @ 7 p.m.

[09.27] at Grant @ 7 p.m.

[10.04] Grayslake Central @ 7 p.m.

[10.11] Round Lake @ 7 p.m.

[10.18] THE GAME OF THE SEASON [10.25] North Chicago @ 7 p.m.

NO TEAM SCORED OVER 8 POINTS IN THE 4TH QUARTER AGAINST THE SEQUOITS TEAM

46-47 SUCCESSFUL KICKS S. SCOFIELD

YOU CAN’T MISS THIS

Sequoits Vs. Lakes Eagles

THREW 28 TDS AND 11 RUSHING A. KALIAKMANIS

OCTOBER 18. 7 p.m. LAKES.

Following @SequoitSports on Twitter won’t be enough because you won’t be able to miss out on this game. Make sure to mark your calendars because the Sequoits need you there to see all the action.

VICTOR MONZON senior, slot

5 feet 11 inches, 185 lbs Monzon is one of the newest additions to the Sequoit football team, and he’s a returning all-conference runningback coming from McHenry.

2018 SEASON BY THE NUMBERS

SEQUOIT TO WATCH

8 INTERCEPTIONS T. WATSON

THE TEAMS > 31

TEEING UP FOR TEAMWORK New head coach, significant growth push golf to set sights high for postseason.

BY GAVIN CALABRESE With hard work and dedication, the Antioch boys golf team has high expectations for this upcoming season. Losing a couple key golfers, the Sequoits may have to step up their game.

“We have some very good talent and I think we, together as a team, are for sure gonna kick

butt,” junior Logan Schlappi said. “I think we have really good potential at taking conference this year and progress hugely.

With high spirits, Antioch has no doubt of reaching their goals throughout this season. Having their season end with a 9-1 record, golfers need to fill some big shoes. Losing two of their best golfers, Alex Riedel and Tony Certic were huge parts of the team.

“We have some seniors that have been playing golf for awhile now and really know how to hit the ball, like Gavin Eldridge,” Schlappi said. “He has bad days and good days, like everyone, but his good days are like really good.”

The Sequoits are looking to achieve their ultimate goal of sending golfers down to state. The boys are prepared for yet another successful season and cannot wait to get back on the green.

“I feel like our season will go back and forth, but we hope to turn up on top,” sophomore William Torres.

[TOP] Luke Dragin, Tegan Martinez, Dillon Lydick, Gavin Eldridge, Max Palmieri, Trenton Crandall, Damian Thiel.

[SECOND] Coach Jim White, Ethan Losing, Donald Barnett, Kaden Roszkowiak, Niall Schoenfelder, Jeffrey Stark, Kyle Christian, Coach Trey Hickey [THIRD] William Thompson, Julian Brunson, Dawson Gutke, Cole Deutscher, Garrett Ray, Logan Schlappi, Ethan Lax, Ethan Frasch, Steven Kusek [BOTTOM] Kyle Behrens, Wyatt Rauch, Hayden Butenschoen, Bryan Devience, Shawn O’Connor, William Torres

32 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

SCHEDULE [09.06] at Prairie Isle Golf Course @ 4 p.m.

[09.11] at Spring Valley Country Club @ 4 p.m.

[09.12] at Stonewall Orchard Golf Club @ 4 p.m.

[09.14] at Spring Valley Country Club @ 8:30 a.m.

[09.16] at Spring Valley Country Club @ 4 p.m.

[09.18] at Valley Ridge Golf Club @ 4:30 p.m.

[09.21] at Steeple Chase Golf Course @ 4:30 p.m.

[09.23] THE MATCH OF THE SEASON [09.28] at Lake Bluff Club @ 1 p.m.

[10.02] at Shephard’s Crook Golf Course @ 9 a.m.

[10.05] at Spring Valley Country Club @ 8 a.m.

[10.08] IHSA Regionals [10.12] IHSA Sectionals [10.18] IHSA State

Sequoits Vs. Lakes Eagles

SEPTEMBER 23. 4 p.m. THUNDERHAWK

Following @SequoitSports on Twitter won’t be enough because you won’t be able to miss out on this game. Make sure to mark your calendars because the Sequoits need you there to see all the action.

35ft Longest PUTT

Gavin Eldridge

84

MAXWELL

YOU CAN’T MISS THIS

2018 SESAON BY THE NUMBERS

210ft Longest Drive

Lowest Score

PALMIERI

Bryan Devience

THE TEAMS > 33

SWINGING FOR THE GREEN Golf looking to dominate with returners and new blood.

BY ROBBIE HULTING The girls golf season is teeing off once again and they have their eyes on the prize. After last year’s season, the team has high hopes to shoot for low scores.

Although the the girls went 2-7 last year, the freshman hope to fill in the shoes of the graduated players and show not only the team, but

“I hope to continue to shoot low scores for the team and to continue to shoot the lowest score,” junior Madison Maish said. “[I want] to help our team averages to allow us to place in tournaments against other schools.

Shooting lower averages is a common goal among the girls. They all want to do what is necessary to bounce back from last season, especially senior captain Emily Pederson who had to take last season off to recover from her knee injury.

“I didn’t play last year because of my knee injury,” Pederson said. “However, I am excited to be back playing with my team.”

A new season is not the only thing varsity girls golf is excited about. Since there are more players than the previous year, there is a better opportunity to create new relationships.

“We have more people and incoming freshman which means we finally have enough girls for

also the school what they are capable of. The

a varsity and JV team, which is super awesome because more people are playing the sport and

returning players also striving to be better golf-

there are more friendship opportunities,” Maish said.

ers and even better role models to the younger players for this season.

With even more golfers and competition on the green this season, make sure to keep an eye out for the girls tennis team as they drive for success.

[TOP] Emily Pedersen, Lily Gange, Coach Bill Hamill, Julia Kraus, Sydney Parker [MIDDLE] Natalie Rogalski, Ally Olsen, Emily Roberts, Ashley Lubkeman [BOTTOM] Kaleigh Ulm, Madi Maish

34 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

[09.11] at Prairie Isle Golf Course @ 4 p.m.

[09.17] at Spring Valley Country Club @ 4 p.m.

[09.21] at Ingersoll Golf Course @ 9 a.m.

[09.24] at Bittersweet Golf Club @ 4 p.m.

[09.28] at Spring Valley Country Club @ 9 a.m.

[10.02] THE MATCH OF THE SEASON [10.05] at Bittersweet Golf Club @ 8 a.m.

[10.18] IHSA State

408 418 48 1

2018 SEASON BY THE NUMBERS

oneFOREeight

SCHEDULE

TEAM SCORE AT 2018 SPRING VALLEY INVITATIONAL

YOU CAN’T MISS THIS

NLCC Tournament

OCTOBER 2. SPRING VALLEY.

Following @SequoitSports on Twitter won’t be enough because you won’t be able to miss out on this game. Make sure to mark your calendars because the Sequoits need you there to see all the action.

SEQUOIT TO WATCH

ASHLEY LUBKEMAN sophomore

According to teammate Madison Maish, “she’s a sophomore this year, and even though she is not in our top four, her game has improved drastically over the summer and she plays really well.”

TEAM SCORE AT 2018 ILLINOIS HIGH SCHOOL ASSOCIATION REGIONALS LOWEST SEQUOIT 18-HOLE SCORE AT IHSA REGIONALS

SEASON TAKEN OFF DUE TO INJURY

THE TEAMS > 35

SOCCER UP FROM GROUND ZERO Boys look to improve on winless conference record and make a statement in post-season.

BY MATT SOBERANO Starting the season with a strong of wins,

mott said. “We have an abundance of talent, but we need to figure out how to manage that talent so that it inspires competition.”

The team had a rough season last year with an end season record of 3-20-0. McDermott believes that this will change this season. Although the team did not perform very well last year, that does not mean that there is not room to improve. The boys have a lot of talent; however, the problem is not the players, they believe it is the teamwork.

“We have a lot more chemistry this year and we are much better at communicating on and

the boys soccer team is ready to soar beyond

off the field,” sophomore Evan Vasquez said. “We all perform very well by ourselves, but we

a losing record from last season. The team is

really need to work on our ball movement and keeping control over the game.”

determined to make an impact on the turf.

Varsity boy’s soccer coach Mike McDermott has been very pleased with their performance so far and is looking forward to a great season.

“I am really looking forward to seeing how the team has improved from last year,” McDer-

With a new roster and new players, this season the team has high hopes for this year. The team has all set very specific goals that they would like to accomplish for this season starting with beating their rivals, Lakes.

“I am really looking forward to building the team up this year especially, since I am a captain now,” junior Elijah Ruano said. “I have a lot of responsibilities now as a captain so I really need to step up the game this year.”

[TOP] Trevor Niznik, Alexander Correa, Aidan Trusky, Elijah Ruano, Remigijus Ivanovas, Evan Vazquez [SECOND] Nicholas Taylor, Adam Lynn, Merrick Foote, Coach Rolando Vazquez, Troy Coleman, Brandon Pinto, Lukas Gutke [THIRD] Manager Valerie Rosek, Manager Jessa Van Gorp, Adrian Aguayo, Victor Manke, Manager Charlie Bongratz, Manager Marielaine Clauson [BOTTOM] Brock Jurinek, Rex Eifert, Daxton Foote

36 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

[TOP] Coach Scott Magnuson, Kaden Berger, Nick Puzzo, Nick Summerfelt, Ryan Day, William Larsen [MIDDLE] Carlos Mendez, Matt Secketa, Caden Caya, Jake Ilkka, Cody Basovsky, Juan Hernandez, Cole Ellars [BOTTOM] Logan Mabus, Ibrahim Alani, Manager Marielaine Clauson, Camilo Carrillo Rodriguez, Ezekiel Moore

2018 SEASON

BY THE NUMBERS

2

46

ADAM LYNN MERRICK FOOTE BROCK JURINEK

TOTAL CARDS IN 2018 SEASON

SCHEDULE

[09.07] Lake Forest @ 9 a.m.

[09.09] Westosha Central @ 6:15 p.m.

[09.09 [09.10] at Zion-Benton @ 4:30 p.m.

SEQUOIT TO WATCH

[09.12] Round Lake @ 6:15 p.m.

[09.16] at Vernon HIlls @ 6:30 p.m.

[09.17] at North Chicago @ 6:15 p.m.

[09.19] at Grant @ 6:15 p.m.

[09.24 [09.24] Grayslake North @ 6:15 p.m.

[09.26 [09.26] THE GAME OF THE SEASON

BROCK JURINEK sophomore, forward

5 feet 5 inches Jurinek is a sophomore who is in his second season playing for the varsity team. He is looking to prove more this year now that he’s able to step up to fill spots left after the class of 2018 graduated.

[10.02] Grayslake Central @ 4:30 p.m.

[10.03] Belvidere @ 6:15 p.m.

[10.07] Marian Central Catholic @ 6:45 p.m.

[10.10] at Wauconda @ 6:15 p.m.

[10.25] IHSA Regionals [10.29] IHSA Sectionals [11.05] IHSA Supersectionals [11.08] IHSA State

YOU CAN’T MISS THIS

Sequoits Vs. Lakes Eagles

SEPTEMBER 26. 4:30 p.m. LAKES.

[TOP] Nathan Young, Jared Luksis, Coach Charles Trout, Dylan Kramer, Kevin Carroll-Garcia [MIDDLE] Nathan Shipman, Elijah Gonzalez, Brett Brose, Brendan LeBrun, Aaron Altman, JonMichael Griffin [BOTTOM] Matt Stanek, Manager Charlie Bongratz, Brendan Harrsion

Following @SequoitSports on Twitter won’t be enough because you won’t be able to miss out on this game. Make sure to mark your calendars because the Sequoits need you there to see all the action.

THE TEAMS > 37

TAKING IT TO THE COURTS The girls tennis team is ready to serve up another state appearance and a number of conference wins.

BY McKENNA KALISZ With last year’s fairytale ending, the girl’s tennis team is looking forward to hitting the courts and hopefully returning to state with more athletes this year. Seniors Sierra Ward, Jenny Horner and Zaina Hussain return to the

A new season means new players, and this year’s team will be seen with tons of fresh faces.

“There are a lot of new freshmen, which is amazing,” Hussain said.

Even though the team does not pick captains, the girls will often find themselves looking up to the seniors for guidance.

“We don’t have captains, but the upperclassmen on the team kind of hold their own leadership position for freshmen and sophomores who are new or anyone who needs help,” Horner said.

The upperclassmen hope to lead the girls to victories in all matches, this season.

“I am really looking forward to conference this year because you play so many different schools,” Horner said. It’s really cool to make new friends and get a nice medal if you place.”

courts, along with help from juniors Jocelyn

Not only do they have their eyes on the prize for conference, but also for sectionals.

Cabuyadao and Fayth Vesser. Returner Jenny

Cabuyadao wants the best for her team and believes every match is practice for sectionals.

Horner cannot wait for the season to start.

“I love everything from the practices so I can bond with my teammates to playing in a match and feeling really good about myself

“I would say the important matches this year are conference matches, because if we do well in those we can move on and do well in sectionals,” Cabuyadao said.

With their rackets in hand, and lots of motivation to go around, the girls tennis team is ready to take on the courts and take down their opponents.

when I win,” Horner said.

[TOP] Grace Goodman, Jensen Horner, Ariana Nikolov, Hannah Gaydovchik, Ellie Kiscellus, Mackenzie Carley, Angelique Ganong, Amanda Paddock [SECOND] Coach Katherine McNeill, Joey Cabuyadao, Alex Johnson, Mia Kaiser, Sam Sheedy (manager), Ting Zhao, Audrey Selander, Zaina Hussain, Coach Jamie D’Andrea [THIRD] Fayth Vesser, Abigail Thomson, Isabelle Pokorny, Morgan Aykroid, Natalie Labicki, Samantha Sy, Elle Ipsen, Hannah Thomson, Olivia Lahti, Caitlynn Gsell [BOTTOM] Arlene Pierce, Alina Hussain, Ryanne Nujeidat, Sierra Ward, Paige Wilson, Amya Appelt

38 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

SCHEDULE [09.07] at Cary-Grove @ 8:30 a.m.

[09.12] Grant @ 4:30 p.m.

[09.14] at Grayslake Central @ 8 a.m.

2018 SEASON BY THE NUMBERS

[09.19] Grayslake North @ 4:30 p.m.

[09.26] THE MATCH OF THE SEASON [09.28] at Lakes Invite @ 8:30 a.m.

[10.01] at Grayslake Central @ 4:30 p.m.

[10.03] Wauconda @ 4:30 p.m.

[10.07] at Woodstock North @ 4:30 p.m.

[10.10] at Woodstock @ 4 p.m.

[10.11] NLCC Tournament at Grant @ 4:30 p.m.

[10.15] at Lakes Invite @ 8:30 a.m.

[10.19] IHSA Sectionals [10.24] IHSA State

YOU CAN’T MISS THIS

Sequoits Vs. Lakes Eagles

SEPTEMBER 26. 4:30 p.m. HOME COURTS. Following @SequoitSports on Twitter won’t be enough because you won’t be able to miss out on this game. Make sure to mark your calendars because the Sequoits need you there to see all the action.

SEQUOIT TO WATCH SIERRA WARD

senior, state qualifier 5 feet 1 inch Senior Sierra Ward is coming off a successful junior season where she qualified for state and looks to do it again this year.

6 6 3 3

place the team finished in the NLCC Tournament place the team finished in the IHSA Sectional place Foote and Ward finished in the NLCC Tournament place Foote and Ward finished in IHSA Sectionals THE TEAMS > 39

SETTING UP FOR A SOLID SEASON The girls volleyball program is preparing for a season of aces, leadership and teamwork.

BY SOFIA KLEM AND GRACE ROWE Game season for girls volleyball swiftly approaches and the girls are working hard to have a strong year. The four levels of girls volleyball are practicing frequently. The girls and the coach hope to make it far into the season and that they have a great year.

“We took regionals a couple years ago,” Bruns said. “I think we got a chance if we come together this year, we can do it again.”

All levels have a dynamic that will be successful if they work together. The girls are very excited for this season alongside coach Bruns. Everyone, especially seniors, are practicing hard to be prepared for their upcoming opponents and hope to make it to regionals.

“I’m just excited to play since it’s my senior year and get to know people on the team,” senior Ayanna Tommy said. “I feel like we’re going to do pretty well.”

The team has many goals in play to hopefully lead them to victory at regionals. Not only does the program have aspirations as a whole, but the girls also individually are working for their goals this volleyball season as well.

“My goals personally are to get more colleges interested and be able to show off for the colleges that I am talking to right now,” junior Maiah Moll said. “As a team, I just hope that everyone gets better.”

With all the girls fighting for the same end goal and coach Bruns helping them, the girl’s volleyball teams are set up for a fortunate season. Teamwork and dedication are the main elements the team is working on to lead them to many victories and regionals.

VARSITY [TOP] Grace Regnier, Avery Larson, Coach Greg Bruns, Morgan Meisinger, Lexington Mckillips [MIDDLE] Ayanna Tommy, Elliana Nordhaus, Annika Lindstrom, Maiah Moll, Chloe Martinez, Veronica Henkel [BOTTOM] Hannah Benes, Hailey Russo

40 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

JUNIOR VARSITY [TOP] Erin Miller, Jada Shaputis, Coach Eric Skoog, Emilee Echterling, Kourtni Weldon [MIDDLE] Aliya Rhodes, Briana Galan, Gwen Policht, Brianna Clark, Tess Elfering, Tessa Wolf [BOTTOM] Quin Gillespie, Anastasia Paulino, Trinity Jackel, Sarah Vilardi

SCHEDULE

[09.06] at Oswego East @ 5 p.m.

[10.11] at Mundelein @ 6 p.m.

[09.12] Round Lake @ 6 p.m.

[10.12] at Hampshire @ 9 a.m.

[09.14] at Rockford Jefferson @ 9 a.m.

[10.15] THE GAME OF THE SEASON

[09.16] Zion-Benton @ 6 p.m.

[10.17] Grayslake Central @ 6 p.m.

[09.19] at North Chicago @ 6 p.m.

[10.23] at Wauconda @ 6 p.m.

[09.21] at Hersey @ 8:30 a.m.

[10.28] IHSA Regionals

[09.26] at Grant Community @ 6 p.m.

[11.04] IHSA Sectionals

[09.27] Waukegan @ 6 p.m.

[11.08] IHSA Supersectionals

[10.03] Grayslake North @ 6 p.m.

[11.15] IHSA State

[10.05] Home Invitational @ 8:30 a.m.

YOU CAN’T MISS THIS

Sequoits Vs. Lakes Eagles

OCTOBER 15. 6 p.m. at LAKES.

154 BLOCKS 8.7 234 ACES Following @SequoitSports on Twitter won’t be enough because you won’t be able to miss out on this game. Make sure to mark your calendars because the Sequoits need you there to see all the action.

HITTING PERCENTAGE

.169

DIGS PER SET

SOPHOMORES [TOP] Ana Marcell, Reagan Lippert, Coach Alyssa Cook, Kylie Beuhlman, Nina Albertini [MIDDLE] Julianna Rettig, Grace Yeager, Sophia Shaffer, Autumn Rizzo [BOTTOM] Melanie Ayon, Lianna Corley, Maddie Rietschel

FRESHMEN [TOP] Taylor Townsend, Katie Timmer, Coach Strom, Jenna Pazdernik, Lilly McKinney [MIDDLE] Brooke Siedlecki, Hannah Runyard, Cameron Pluciennik, Tiffany Williams, Julia Maton, Peyton Lyndon [BOTTOM] Molly Williams, Olivia Andersen, Morgan Poulos, Caitlyn Osborne

2018 SEASON BY THE NUMBERS

10.2

KILLS PER SET

THE TEAMS > 41

SEQUOIT SPIRIT STANDS STRONG

Even though it isn’t “their season,” these Sequoits provide much needed support for their fellow athletes.

BY AVERY FRASCH When it’s not their competition season, both the cheerleading and dance teams spend most of their time preparing for what’s to come during the winter season. Tryouts for both cheer and dance take place before the school year ends, which causes the summer to be an important time to practice and prepare for the upcoming school year.

During the summer, practices and camps are very important as they help the team advance their skills before the fall season, where their skills are showcased on the sidelines of football games.

[TOP] Coach Samantha Kanya, Carissa Lozano, Megan Harding, Jordan Mitchell, Hailey Menzies, Beth Kamman [MIDDLE] Daylia Brock, Haley Aitken, Kelsi Sheren, Kiara Morris, Haleigh Zenoni, Maggie Quirke [BOTTOM] Alyssa Colpaert, Julia Hackeloer, Kara Galarneau, Grace Rowe

Last year, both the cheer and dance teams had successful seasons yet again. With the cheer team placing 3rd and the dance team coming in 5th, it was the second year in a row both teams placed in the top five in the state. Both teams have the advantage of being together for two seasons. Practicing and preparing for competition season during the summer and football season is a huge advantage for both cheer and dance.

“During football season we spend a lot of time perfecting the basics so we are prepared for when competition season comes around,” varsity cheerleader Lexi Dalton said. “We spend so much time together which helps us get closer as a team and it makes it easier to work well together.”

The dynamic of winter competition season is very different to that of the fall spirit season. The main goal of both teams during the fall season is to entertain the crowds at games and showcase their skills. In the past, at both games and assemblies, the cheerleaders and dancers

[TOP] Samantha Milliken, Grace Acello, Avery Frasch, Bridget Nauman, Jadda Pope, Ashley Piper [SECOND] Coach Tim Babin, Coach Amber Babin, Kayleigh Clancy, Madisen Krapf, Samantha Kempf, Coach Caitlin O’Grady, Paul Valdivia-Valencia [THIRD] Lizzie Bongratz, Leahanna Davidson, Hadde Luebke, Kayla Grenke, Riley Conway, Katie Howe, Lauren Deguzman, Lexi Dalton [BOTTOM] Kylee Craig, Kaitlyn Bargamian, Bella Bussone

usually perform their separate routines for everyone to see. This year, the cheerleaders and dancers have started to work together more and have put together a pregame routine where both teams get to showcase their skills all at the same time. The cheerleaders putting up stunts while the dancers are performing creates a dynamic that hasn’t been seen since assistant dance coach Kelly Taylor was at the helm of the dance team in 2012. Now with Taylor returning as the assistant and Sequoit dance alumna and English teacher Samantha Kanya leading as head coach, the dancers are ready to rejoin the cheerleaders on the sidelines.

“I think it’s really good that we’re working together because it gets rid of the stigma that the cheer and dance team have drama and shows everyone that we can work well together as one,” junior Alyssa Colpaert said.

Though both cheer and dance may be overlooked during the fall season, they play an important role in getting the crowd involved at events and overall promoting school spirit.

42 > THE ARROW > FALL 2019

[TOP] Coach Caitlin O’Grady, Madison Londano, Coach Tim Babin, Mia Maldonado, Coach Amber Babin [MIDDLE] Jamie Gale, Adriana Barrera, Aaliyah Lizak, Emma Kolloff, Lena De Vore, Izzy Gonzalez [BOTTOM] Jenna Lamberty, Fiona Serifov, Kinsey Delgado

SIGNED, SEALED, SIDELINED

Being set back for months without playing a sport can be hard on young athletes. No matter the position, each athlete is at risk for injury at any time.

BY CASSIDY THOMAS Playing a sport in this day and age can come at a large cost, especially when playing high intensity sports at such a young age. High school athletes can obtain injuries as small as a jammed finger all the way to as big as being paralyzed.

Senior Emily Pedersen was set back from playing golf, basketball and soccer due to a torn ACL, MCL and meniscus adding up to a 10 month recovery period. These injuries are common in athletes,

especially ones who play multiple sports. Pedersen’s injury happened in the blink of an eye. She was in the middle of a scrimmage; she jumped and her knee hyperextended.

“When it happened, I kept telling myself ‘don’t cry, don’t cry’ because I didn’t want my coaches to think I was a baby,” Pedersen said.

“I thought I probably just dislocated or sprained [my knee]. I had no idea it was as bad as it was.”

Pedersen had never been injured so seriously before. She couldn’t put any weight on her leg for six weeks and she had to wait four months to learn how to run and jump again. Sitting back on the bench and watching her team was even more painful than the injury itself.

One of the hardest things for a passionate athlete to do is to not be able to do anything at all. Watching their teammates and friends from the bench can take a toll on them mentally.

“The struggle with an injury is wanting to play and help the team, but realizing you can’t and you have to watch,” junior football player Alexander Kutcher said. “I always want to be on the field helping my team get a win.”

For Kutcher, this season would normally be when he’s under the Friday night lights, but now he is forced to support his team from the sidelines instead. Kutcher’s injury was more of a build up over time

them through it all. The athletic trainers also play a major role in their recovery; one thing they had Kutcher do to cope is stretching to get healthy again.

“When I’m fully healed I plan to take things slowly and progressively

from all the sports he plays: football, basketball and baseball. He has

go faster,” Kutcher said. “Something that keeps me going is that I know I

always struggled with back issues putting him in and out of sports but

will get back to playing eventually and will be able to help my team.”

he recently fractured a vertebrae in his back, putting him out for most of this fall’s season.

Similarly, senior Charlie Smith was out for the beginning of the cross country season. Smith’s injury was the result of overuse this past

Kutcher is hoping to be fully recovered in a few weeks. Compared to Kutcher, Smith is healing well and has been running the past week for the first time in about a month.

“I’ve mainly just focused on all of the little things that I might not

summer after last school year’s track season in the spring. He has had

focus on as much when I’m actually healthy,” Smith said. “There are so

small injuries before, but nothing as serious as this one. For Smith the

many other beneficial things to focus on while you’re healing through

recovery process wasn’t a walk in the park either.

the injury. My plans are to just slowly get back into shape once I’m

“Coping with the injury has definitely been tougher mentally than physically,” Smith said. “I always catch myself thinking about where I might have been had I not gotten injured.”

Additionally to being physically hurt on the outside, being injured can take a massive toll on an athlete mentally. For Pedersen, Kutcher

healed.”

Many athletes would agree that the best thing to do is take it slow.

Pedersen really missed playing basketball and soccer, but she knew she needed to take her time and has been healed for months now.

“It feels crazy that I’m back because it honestly flew by,” Pedersen

and Smith the recovery process was nowhere close to easy, but 100

said. “I’m so happy because I am back to being an athlete. If I could

percent worth it.

say something to someone going through an injury, it would be to keep

Their friends, teammates, family and coaches have supported

pushing through and you’ll come back stronger than before.”

THE STORIES > 43

ARROW THE

A SEQUOIT MEDIA AND ANTIOCH ATHLETICS PUBLICATION

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