The Tom Tom | October 27, 2017

THE BURNT ORANGE ISSUE

volume 56 . issue 4. october 27, 2017 sequoitmedia.com. @achstomtom. @sequoitsports 1133 main street. antioch, illinois. 60002

sequoitmedia.com online exclusives THE ATHLETESTUDENT

Everyone knows what being a student-athlete consists of; placing a strong focus on education before focusing on athletics. However, some students have the opposite in mind. When athletics comes before education, a variety of opinions arise.

Look into the lives of these athlete-students to see what leads them to place a higher value on athletics than their own education.

ALSO ONLINE

- Hidden Places in Antioch to Watch the Sunset by SBN junior -Connor Flatley - Review of Cuphead by Sean Weiser and Drew Smith - Preview of Boys Basketball Season by SBN juniors Tyson Baker and Jackie Sistrunk - Bad Joke Competition

by SBN seniors Julius Catalan and Andrew Hare - Review of SNES Classic by SBN juniors Josh May and Sammy Schultz

SPORTS DRINKS V. WATER BY TOM TOM STAFF MEMBER TYLER SKUTNIK During a game, athletes are not really thinking about what they’re putting into their bodies, or what they aren’t putting into their bodies for that matter. Everyone has different drink preferences, but it all comes down to what drink is the best for the body. Finding out what drink is best could enhance overall playing performance and benefit the body.

SHARING THE TURF BY TOM TOM TEAM LEADER PETER BOEH There are plenty of tools available at Antioch Community High School to help athletes improve their game. However, when one tool is desired by not only athletes, but the coaches as well, sharing becomes a huge problem. Take a walk around the track and admire everything that makes ACHS’ turf sought-after and how compromises are made to divide turf-time.

TRANSITION FROM FALL TO WINTER SPORTS BY SBN SOPHOMORE SEAN O’HARA AND SENIOR DREW PORTER There are different skill sets that athletes need to adapt to when playing different sports. Similarly, athletes need to adapt when transitioning from season to season. Some athletes have been waiting all year for their winter sport while other athletes must switch from their fall sport to their new winter one. Regardless of the circumstance, winter sports are almost underway.

HALLOWEEN MAKEUP TUTORIAL BY SBN ASSOCIATE PRODUCER KATELYN STEUER With Halloween just days away, it’s the perfect time to get a great look for this time of year. Whether one is looking for makeup to give with a costume or just a festive fall-themed look, there are plenty of fun options out there for everyone. dessert at the Lovin’ Oven Cakery as the community eagerly awaits its own local location.

BEHIND THE SCENES AT LOVIN’ OVEN CAKERY BY SBN SENIOR SKYLAR LOOS AND SOPHOMORE NAYLA LOOS Everyone loves a good cookie, but sometimes one may find themselves wondering how a simple dessert comes to be so delicious. Steal a look at what happens behind closed doors in order to make a mouthwatering dessert at the Lovin’ Oven Cakery as the community eagerly awaits its own local location.

EDITOR’S NOTE 04 Off The Field 05 On the Field 8 SUNSHINE 16 Domination 18 Aggression 20 Action 22 Beyond the field 24 What it Feels Like 32

table of contents

the tom tom // the burnt orange issue // october 27, 2017

OFF THE FIELD | October 27, 2017 | The Burnt Orange Issue

THE BURNT ORANGE ISSUE

Jessica Nettgen JASON R. WOOD editor-in-chief // @jason_wood7

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ersonally, I feel comforted when looking at the color burnt orange. It’s a color that I would assume would be associated with feelings of warmth, comfort and safety—all overwhelmingly positive ideas. Contrary to my belief, burnt orange doesn’t actually come with very positive connotations. While it is of course associated with sunshine, it also represents domination, aggression and a thirst for action, all of which could be argued to carry negative connotations. In this magazine, we decided to put a Tom Tom twist on burnt orange and see how it relates to sports and the athletes themselves.

These characteristics relate to me in fairly contradictory ways. For sunshine, I am always striving to be, in a sense, “a ray of sunshine” for those around me. It sounds incredibly cheesy, but I do my best to be one of the more positive people in the room at all times. On the flip side, I tend to be the opposite of aggressive. As a result, while I may know better, my lack of aggression oftentimes allows people to walk over me. Not only has it hindered me in my personal life, but my lack of aggression also prevented me from performing as well as I potentially could have during my high school soccer career—allowing others to play over me in certain situations. I was always raised to do my best to stay humble, and for that reason I don’t think that I fit the bill of someone who is dominant; however, I do typically situate myself in a position to dominate in most situations.

This goes hand-in-hand with a thirst for action. In the past two years I’ve worked to push myself out of routine and my comfort zone; I try to find new experiences and to be the best at what I do.

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While I may see the duality of how burnt orange relates to myself, I believe it’s overwhelmingly positive in how it relates to The Tom Tom and the staff. Sunshine ties into our production cycle surprisingly well. Much like the sun itself, our magazines rise and fall. We start magazines from almost nothing, they rise until completion, and then we fall back into the two-week cycle once again. This staff is absolutely dominant in the field of high school journalism in comparison to other newspapers and magazines. We have a thirst for action in the sense that we constantly want to be better than we have been. The Tom Tom is always seeking to find new and exciting stories to share with our readers, a drive which could be said reflects our thirst for action. Aggression, however, can be our achilles heel. On occasion we are mistaken to be too aggressive in the way that we very rarely take “no” for an answer. Commonly this is interpreted as lending to a lack of sensitivity and or attention to detail. I would argue that our program has the utmost sensitivity and attention to detail.

In this issue, we decided to give our student athletes a different look at some of their teachers and coaches.

While there are some Antioch Community High School staff members that make their collegiate accomplishments well known, there are others whose time in collegiate sports fly under the radar. In a five page spread, senior editor Monica Wilhelm and Tom Tom staffer Joseph Kestian highlighted some of the members of the ACHS staff’s sports accomplishments in their college years. For features, team leader Eleni Sakas poses the idea that high school sports are similar to the cycle of the sun: they rise, they peak and they fall. Tom Tom staffer Merrick Foote tells the story not of what it’s like to dominate in sports, but what it’s like to be the team being dominated. Team leader Karley Rogalski looks at aggression in coaching and the different coaching personalities. Tom Tom staffer Gianna Chiappetta looks at the thirst for action found in those who may not receive enough playing time in their respective sports. In this magazine, some of our staffers returned to the beloved “Tom Tom Tries” to tackle marching band. Senior editor John Petty and staff members Kevin Tamayo and Merrick Foote learned that marching band isn’t as easy as hitting a drum to a tempo and wearing a uniform. If you’ve heard rumors that a girls lacrosse team is being started at ACHS—there isn’t, at least not yet—so read social media coordinator Mikayla Holway’s story on girls lacrosse.

As always, thank you for reading and helping us show that there is more to life than what we may see as black and white.

executive team

JASON R. WOOD Editor-in-Chief PATRICK R. JOHNSON, MJE Adviser JILLIAN M. EVERETT Managing Editor BRANDEN W. GALLIMORE Print Director KAYLEE S. SCHREINER Digital Director NICO L. CHIAPPETTA Public Relations Director CHLOE E.GRASS Creative Director DIANA ANGHEL Print Director ALIYA N. RHODES Creative Director Editorial Board DIGITAL ASSISTANTS Griffin P. Hackloer Jacob R. Johnson Alex L. Rapp Emily M. Torres

SENIOR EDITORS Lauren N. Bluthardt Jessica L. Lamberty John P. Petty Monica E. Wilhelm

Coordinators SOCIAL MEDIA Jared D. DeBoer Emily C. Hanes Mikayla M. Holway PHOTOGRAPHY Jessica J. Nettgen Steffanie A. Richardson Kat B. Zamudio

TEAM Peter A. Boeh Dan D. Filippone Alexandra C. Johnson McKenna R. Kalisz Madisen M. Krapf Valerie N. Rasmussen Eleni A. Sakas Karley K. Rogalski

staff journalists

Gianna M. Chiappetta Joyclyn L. Crawford Caden M. Davis Taylor A. Feltner Merrick W. Foote Avery J. Frasch Kayla E. Grenke Emily A. Higgins Robert S. Hulting Joseph M. Kestian Alexandria Q. Knight Emily Lara

Ella M. Maggio Julia M. Murillo Benjamin J. Nauman Jadda C. Pope Ashly M. Ring Tyler S. Skutnik Matthew P. Soberano Kevin E. Tamayo Sadie M. Vanderwall Skyler R. Wackenhuth Mollie T. Wagner Sierra M. Ward

staff interns

Haley Aitken Charlotte Bongratz Gavin Calabrese Evan Day Andrew DeBoer Matthew Edmark Brianna Fisher Julia Hackeloer Kaitlyn Howe Jackson Hugener Isabelle Hunter Jake Ilkka Sofia Klem Madison McBride

Alexis Olson Maggie Quirke Alexander Riedel Alessia Rivera Grace Rowe Maya Schon Rilee Schreiner Sarah Smith Cassidy Thomas Katelyn Vaskovsky Beatriz Warnes Alison Weiser Walker Winkler

mission statement

The Tom Tom seeks to not only be the premier source of student news, sports and lifestyles at Antioch Community High School, but it also aspires to do so with integrity, respect, responsibility and pride. The Tom Tom believes wholeheartedly in giving voices to the voiceless through unique engaging methods of storytelling, while engaging with the Antioch community to see diverse and challenging perspectives. In doing so, we choose to tell some of the more challenging or untold stories even when they can be controversial in order to make our community stronger, more caring, and more tolerant. This program envisions a holistic experience of quality journalism through print publications and digital content, as well as promotes student spirit and school culture through innovative and inspiring public relations and advertising campaigns.

We are the Tom Tom. We are originals. It would be an awfully big adventure if you choose to come along with us and work as one community, One Sequoit.

JASON R. WOOD editor-in-chief

THE TOM TOM STAFF

2017-2018

JUST RELAX

The creation of a girls lacrosse team in District 117 may have to wait a few more years before it is established. lacrosse which allows stick and body-checking, boys lacrosse also wears full pads.

“I think I would be more comfortable playing he increase of student athletes’ interest on a girls team,” Bolton said. “I’m small and in lacrosse has grown tremendously over would probably get hurt playing on the boys the past few years, and one of the effects team.” is the Community High School District 117 boys While there is not a high school team this lacrosse team that was created last year. The year, there are alternative options for girls interprogram consists of players from Antioch and ested in lacrosse outside of school, including Lakes and there are JV and varsity level teams. club teams for high school athletes. Depending As a result of the boys team, rumors about the on the athlete’s schedule, she can sign up for establishment of a girls D117 lacrosse team indoor lacrosse, spring lacrosse this spring; although it was highly and summer academy. She can anticipated, there will not be a girls DID YOU also sign up for various clinics to lacrosse team this spring started KNOW? test out the sport. going around.

IN THE PAST YEAR, “I’m probably going to do a LACROSSE HAD THE “Usually if there is going to be club lacrosse team, because boys LARGEST PERCENTa team it takes a year or two in the AGE INCREASE IN and girls lacrosse are two totally process to start, and there was BOYS’ AND GIRLS’ different sports,” Svarc said. “I also PARTICIPATION nothing that happened last year,” think it would be fun to meet new Athletic Director Steve SchoenSOURCE // people and play with experienced felder said.

US LACROSSE players.”

The main reason that a team A result of lacrosse gaining is not being created this fall is bepopularity so quickly is that it can be challenging cause it takes time to get a new sports program to find programs; there is a feeder lacrosse team up and running through the high school and in Antioch called the Seagles. This program is IHSA; the process can be anywhere from two open to athletes from third to eighth grade and to six years long and it depends on the amount has co-ed teams as well. Although athletes on of interest in joining the sports team. Sophothis team play by the rules of boys lacrosse, mores Natalie Svarc and Paige Bolton were both girls are allowed to play. Because of the sudden interested in the creation of a D117 girls lacrosse interest in lacrosse, the Seagles program is hopprogram. ing to expand to having a club level high school “I think challenging myself with a new sport team for athletes interested in playing lacrosse like lacrosse would be really fun,” Svarc said. all seasons.

While it is uncommon, if a female athlete “Overall I just wish they made a girls team, TT wanted to join a male sports team that the I understand it’s hard to do, but I think a lot of school does not offer to girls, IHSA does allow people would appreciate it,” Svarc said. girls to play on the boys team. Although many With the overall excitement and interest of view that as an opportunity to play, the transimany female athletes, the creation of a girls lation from a boys lacrosse team to a girls team crosse team is expected. Because of the sudden would be challenging for the athlete, due to the growth of athletes eager to play, lacrosse players fact that they are very different. Girls lacrosse is will have to be patient and wait for the expansion focused on passing and moving instead of carof the D117 lacrosse program. For now, athletes rying the ball over a distance. Girls lacrosse also that are interested in lacrosse should try to get only allows stick-checking as opposed to boys involved with clinics and clubs outside of school.

MIKAYLA M. HOLWAY social media coordinator // @mikaylaholway

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Mikayla Holway 5

OFF THE FIELD | October 27, 2017 | The Burnt Orange Issue

PREVENTING DAMAGE The rise of new legislation and more cases of concussions have the ACHS trainers on watch.

DANIEL D. FILIPPONE team leader // @dfilippone24

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ccording to a study from the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC), high school athletes account for an estimated two million injuries each year. There is a strong likelihood, with four years of potential sports participation, that virtually every athlete will experience some sort of injury before they graduate high school.

Assistant athletic trainer Bryn Nottoli works with athletes to help them prevent and recover from injuries.

“The most injuries come from football; it’s just the nature of the sport,” Nottoli said. “I mean, a lot of the objective involves an athlete running into another athlete.”

Concussions are an example of an injury that has a direct impact on a person’s ability to participate in sports and their personal life. A concussion is defined as a complex pathophysiological process affecting the brain, induced by traumatic biomechanical forces secondary to direct or indirect forces to the head. The term is also used to describe the effects of a concussion or temporary incapacity.

“Concussions affect all aspects of a person’s life,” Nottoli said.

“The symptoms can affect you for a few days, weeks and even months; it changes from person to person in what they can or cannot do. They like to know exactly where they are going at all times.”

At Antioch, standard protocol at any athletic event is for the home team to provide an athletic trainer in case of injury. The athletic trainer’s primary duties include precautionary activities prior

to the athletic event such as taping of ankles, stretching, massages and various other activities. During the athletic event, the trainer is on call in case an athlete suffers an injury. The athletic trainer must immediately assess the severity of the injury in order to provide appropriate care.

“Depending on what injury it is, there are a couple different measures to take depending on if it’s a spinal injury, concussion, ankle sprain or fracture,” Nottoli said. “For concussions we make sure there are no cervical fractures. If there is any neck pain, it’s an immediate referral to a hospital. If no neck pain is detected, we take them through a concussion protocol.”

Concussion protocols are used by doctors and trainers alike.

The protocol asks a number of questions to the athlete, and once they complete the assessment, the program can estimate how bad the injury actually is.

The athletic trainer’s role is to be the first level of treatment and immediately assess the seriousness of the injury. They work as an extension of the medical system—aiding doctors and hospitals in less severe treatment and identification of serious injuries in a more timely manner.

“With the heightened awareness of concussions, it has completely changed my work,” Nottoli said. “Before we were working mostly on orthopedics and now I mostly work with concussion assessment.”

Illinois made an official law two years ago stating that all high schools must require a concussion assessment and return to play protocol. This helps with evaluating concussions before the trainer sends them to a doctor.

Sports injuries impact individuals in many different ways, from participating in sports to performing regular functions such, as attending classes to the potential risk of injury affecting their personal lives.

Q&A With Nik Mielke Tom Tom: How did you originally get concussed?

Mielke: I was defending on the side when someone in the center of the field kicked the ball and hit me in the forehead.

TT: In what ways did your concussion affect your life?

Mielke: I started to notice that my grades were falling.

TT: How was your life at home?

Mielke: Life at home wasn’t that bad, it was just really boring since I couldn’t do anything.

TT: How did you heal?

Mielke: I was just told to rest my body.

I was also separated from all technology to help me sleep better.

Matthew Soberano Senior Joseph Karolewicz lays on the field at Lakes Community High School due to an ankle injury he suffered during the game. Karolewicz is currently recovering and was not able to play any games or participate in practice for a week.

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TT: Are you still affected today?

Mielke: I’m getting better, but my grades are still a little low. Other than that I’m okay.

THERE’S A PARENT. WHERE? ON THE FIELD. Having a coach on and off the field 24/7 has its pros and cons, and, sometimes, that coach is bound to the athlete by blood.

AVERY J. FRASCH tom tom staff // @averyfrasch

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coach’s job is extremely important. No matter how young or old, good or bad, they all contribute to the success of a team while teaching life lessons along the way. To be a coach, it takes extreme dedication, commitment and patience. Even when the coach is a parent, nothing should change, right?

Well, in some cases, other athletes and/or parents may believe that the coach’s kid receives special attention. Sophomore Tyler Oslage was coached by his dad in both track and football his whole life. He feels as if his dad helped him become a better athlete in the long run, even if he got some special treatment along the way.

“I think I get a little bit of special treatment just because my dad is always helping me with sports, but I think I have higher standards and expectations to be a leader because my dad is my coach,” Oslage said.

Being the child of a coach could not only affect the relationships an athlete has with their teammates, but it could also affect their performance. Some may argue that having a parent as a coach may cause the athlete to feel too comfortable and become cocky. Others may say that an athlete being coached by their parent will create more one-on-one time, and will have a better connection. Before making the varsity team at Antioch, freshman Ashley Piper was a part of the Antioch Vikings Cheerleading program and was coached by her mom for nine years.

“In cheerleading, having my mom as a coach helped me,” Piper said. “she could be completely honest with me and she could tell me exactly what I was doing wrong.”

Not only was Piper’s mom her coach for many years, but her dad also helped coach her softball team for three years.

“In softball, having my dad as a coach also helped me out,” Piper said. “He helped me outside of practice with both hitting and pitching to make me better.”

In Piper’s case, having her parents as coaches benefitted her greatly because of the extra attention she received that ultimately made her a better athlete. But, having mom or dad along for the ride 24/7 may not always be a positive thing.

Some athletes say that having a parent as a coach causes them to become worried that they are not meeting their parents’ expectations, and that they are not performing to the best of their ability. Tyler’s dad, Dan Oslage, played football and was on the track team when he was in high school, which causes some stress on Tyler to meet his dad’s expectations.

“I feel a lot of pressure to meet my dad’s expectations because he played at such a high level and I know he wants me to accomplish what he did,” Oslage said.

On the other hand, athletes may say that having a parent coach them motivates them to be better. Junior Kevin Tebbe was coached by his dad in three sports: baseball, basketball and football. Tebbe feels as if having his dad on the field with him made him a better athlete because he focused on doing his best, in order to make his dad proud.

Courtesy of Piper Family Ashley and her mom Beth Piper during one of the nine years they were in the Antioch Viking Program together. “I enjoyed having my mom as a coach when we won state in 2016,” A. Piper said. “All of the hard times we had together paid off.”

“I never felt pressured to meet his expectations, even though he was always pushing me to be better. I just saw it more as motivation to be better,” Tebbe said.

Youth sports thrive on parent-coaches, they make up roughly 90 percent of all youth sport coaches. Athletes may feel like their coaches are more accessible and more involved when it’s their mom or dad, which gives them a sense of comfort. Parents have a unique relationship with their kids that could benefit them greatly. There’s just something about being involved in their kids’ activities that makes parents want to coach, even if there are negative effects.

“I would consider coaching my future kids because I know how much it helped me, not only with the sport but other lessons were learned also,” Tebbe said. “Being a coach, you should never be late to practices so always being driven to practices by my parents helped me learn time management and the importance of showing up on time.”

Growing up being known as “the coach’s kid” may not always be an easy concept, constantly feeling the pressure, taking tough criticism on and off the field, relationships with teammates being threatened because the thought of receiving special treatment. No matter what age, being coached by a parent isn’t always what it seems. Yet, it could also be one of the greatest gifts an athlete could receive. Having a coach that is one of the most important and influential people in one’s life is something an athlete will never forget. In the end, being “the coach’s kid” may not be such a bad thing after all.

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ON THE FIELD | October 27, 2017 | The Burnt Orange Issue

WA N T A R E P L AY ?

HEAD OVER TO SEQUOITMEDIA.COM AND R E A D O U R S TA F F E R S ’ E X P E R I E N C E GIVING IT THE GOOD ‘OLE TOM TOM T RY AT M A R C H I N G B A N D .

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TomTomTries: MARCHING BAND See what happens when our staff members leave behind soccer balls, footballs and stunting to pick up instruments and take the field with the marching band.

STEFFANIE A. RICHARDSON photo coordinator // @steffanieann88

JOHN P. PETTY senior editor // @johnppetty

MERRICK W. FOOTE tom tom staff // @mfoo42

KEVIN E. TAMAYO tom tom staff // @kevintamayo162 9

ON THE FIELD | October 27, 2017 | The Burnt Orange Issue

The 2017 Illinois High School Association girls state tennis tournament was played October 19-21. Senior Kelsey Neville was among the 384 girls competing.

Neville started off strong the first day-and-a-half, winning her first three matches.

Unfortunately, she fell short in her quarterfinals match, but continued fighting on Saturday to place 6th in the 1A singles division.

Neville is only the fifth Sequoit to make a state appearance all four years of high school.

BY SIERRA M. WARD 10

TENNIS Matthew Soberano 11

ON THE FIELD | October 27, 2017 | The Burnt Orange Issue

FIELD HOCKEY JR Johnson 12

FOOTBALL Jessica Nettgen 13

ON THE FIELD | October 27, 2017 | The Burnt Orange Issue

SPORT Julia Murillo 14

THE BURNT ORANGE ISSUE features 102717

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FEATURES | October 27, 2017 | The Burnt Orange Issue

RISE

AND

The progression of the sun includes the rise, the climax and the fall.

High school sports are just like the progression of the sun; throughout the day there’s a rise and a fall and a lot of good in between.

ELENI A. SAKAS team leader// @eleni_sakas

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SUNRISE, 6:00 A.M. s the sun rises from the east, a new day begins. Days are extremely similar to sports. When the season first starts out, it promises great potential; the potential to work hard and get amazing results from one’s efforts. When the day begins, there is a chance to make decisions for better or for worse. There are many important factors that go into having a great season such as influential coaches, supporting teammates and full effort in order to make the season the best it can.

From Patrick Schoenfelder becoming the IHSA first place state wrestling champion to varsity football’s second undefeated season, ACHS’s athletic victories engraved into the memories of many students, faculty members and families.

However, starting off well does not guarantee a winning season. One of the most important factors for a successful season is to have a common goal for the team. Either as an individual or a team, having a goal allows one to place focus somewhere and work towards success.

Varsity football coach Brian Glashagel has been working towards his career goal for years: win state.

“On April 19, 2007, I said that we were going to win a state title,” Glashagel said. “We haven’t done that yet, so that’s my goal every year.”

Having a disciplined and functional team is only half of the

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battle. For each team, it’s necessary to have a strong defense, a reliable offense and clear communication between everyone.

“A great season is everyone getting along on and off the field and having good communication on the field really helps with the structure of our team,” junior Karina Steitz said. “When we have communication everything else just seems to flow a little bit better.”

Steitz plays on the varsity field hockey team which improved from last year and finished with a record of 9-7 due to their new found team cooperation and determination.

As cliché as it sounds, teamwork truly does make the dream work.

HIGH NOON, 12:00 P.M. The moment where all of the hard work, time and effort pays off now arrives for an athlete. Whether it’s an intense game or the best play of their athletic career, it becomes a staple moment.

Recent ACHS students have been lucky enough to experience successful sports teams, such as varsity football with their undefeated season and NLCC conference champions two consecutive years. Cross country had numerous victories with their most recent being winning conference 70-65. Sophomore Charlie Smith snagged first place in the conference meet with a time of 15:45:1.

A common trend between all victorious teams comes down

Eleni Sak Eleni Sakas

to the player. The player must have motivation, concentration and determination.

THE UNPREDICTABLE STORM, 4:00 P.M. Then, the upsets start to come in. No matter what sport, what level or what division, an upset always seems to magically appear. Just recently on October 7, 2017, formally unranked Iowa State had a massive victory over number three ranked Oklahoma in football. The following week, NCAA football team Syracuse destroyed number two Clemson’s winning streak, creating a huge unforeseen hole in college football predictions.

According to Competitive Edge.com, “The main problem lies in having an outcome focus, specifically an awareness that the upcoming competition will be one sided in their favor.”

Upsets come from not respecting an opponent and not taking each play seriously. It’s important to take a deep breath, calm down and play the game. Every team has their good and bad days, but placing their trust into their teammates and coaches will ensure a quality game no matter the outcome.

SUNSET, 6:30 P.M. It all ends at once. The winning streak was crushed. The amazing coach retired. A high school athletic career is over after stepping off the field with a diploma in one hand and a varsity

letter in the other.

The fall of a sport can be due to multiple variables all in different forms. Each athlete can experience at least one mid-season drought. It can lead the athlete to think about considering why they play the sport or not fully giving 100 percent effort. However, many athletes have been able to find ways to cope with their mid-season slump.

“I think about what I need to work on, but then I also tell myself what I have personally improved on throughout the season,” Steitz said. “You have to keep reminding yourself that it’s okay when you get in slumps because you eventually overcome them and you just have to stay positive because when you are negative nothing gets better.”

Not only do athletes get slumps, but coaches do as well.

“I think that changing the routine sometimes tweaking practice drills, and cutting out conditioning whatever you have to do to create [a new environment] just to change it up a little bit can help in doing that too,” Glashagel said.

In the end, there are days that the meteorologist will be wrong about the weather. There are practices where one is not playing to the best of their abilities. Everyone gets into a lull, athlete or not.

It is part of how sports and how life works, but it’s important to know that the slump will pass no matter the circumstances.

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FEATURES | October 27, 2017 | The Burnt Orange Issue

SEARCHING FOR THE SILVER LINING The perspectives of losing players

MERRICK W. FOOTE tom tom staff // @mfoo42

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he victors write history, but that does not have to always be the case. For every winning side there is a losing side as well. So why are the thoughts of the defeated men and women rarely heard? Why don’t people often know how it feels to lose the Superbowl, or go an entire season without ever winning a game? What does it feel like not to consistently dominate, but instead to consistently get dominated? While it is important to know what it’s like to win a game or double an opponent’s score, there are two sides to every story, and the loser’s thoughts and feelings are often overlooked by the winner’s.

Over the course of a season, every team begins to develop a win-loss record that lets everybody know how many games they have lost and how many games they have won. If a team ends a season with more losses than wins, it is considered a losing record. However, even when a team ends with a losing record they are not automatically a bad or unsuccessful team. Many factors are involved in deciding whether a team is “bad” or not, so it is important to know that even teams that have lost almost every game are not necessarily bad teams. With that being said, losing frequently does affect the people who comprise the team. Winning is, of course, more fun than losing, so it is hard to go through an entire season where a team seems to be able to do nothing other than lose.

Losing takes a toll on both the players and coaches of the team, but it affects everyone differently. There are those that feel they were successful anyway, those who felt they were not successful at all, and those in the middle.

It is crucial to understand all three perspectives because at some point, everyone is at risk of fitting into one of those categories themselves.

SUCCESS Wins are seen as the most important goal for a team to achieve. However, there are those who feel that a team does not need wins to be successful. They feel that, even though a

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team may be incapable of beating other teams, they can still be a good team overall. One such example is sophomore Maxwell Palmieri. Palmieri played for the District 117 lacrosse team during the 2017 season. Palmieri’s team’s record was 2-14, but he still feels that overall his team was successful.

“I think that for a first year program we did very well.” Palmieri said.

Palmieri felt that even though they lost nearly ninety percent of their games, they were still successful because it was the first lacrosse team that Antioch has ever taken part in. While Palmieri felt that they did well, he still felt the effects of constantly losing.

“When you lose multiple games in a row, everyone starts feeling it and starts getting a little heated. I never want to feel like that again.

That’s actually when our coaches helped us out a lot,” Palmieri said. “They would tell us to use all that anger and frustration in a positive way and that’s what we did.”

Palmieri said that the team began to play even harder and put in even more work so that they would never have to experience a similar situation later in life. District 117 lacrosse coach Matthew Larsen felt similarly about his team’s season.

“I am proud of what we accomplished with a young team. It is hard to have two schools come together and do what we accomplished as a first year team. Most first year teams do not win a game nor do they keep games close,” Larsen said. “The group of kids are hard workers and grinders. You do not get the same hard work at other schools in my opinion. I think the hard work these kids brought to each game is the reason we never got blown out.”

What Palmieri and Larsen show is that the truemeasure of success is not how many wins a team finishes with, but how hard they worked for the few wins they managed to get.

SOME SUCCESS While Palmieri and Larsen felt that their team was totally successful even without wins,

‘‘ IF WE LOSE, WE LOSE AS A TEAM. SARA JILLY

some people do not feel quite as strongly as they did. Others feel that their team was only partially successful. For sophomore Sara Jilly’s freshmen basketball team in the winter season of 2016-17, this was the case.

“In some ways yes, we were successful, because we would all work together as a team,” Jilly said. “We didn’t realize that other teams could have improved over the year so we were always saying that we were going to beat a team and we would end up losing to them.”

Jilly started out by explaining how they were successful, but quickly changed to telling about ways they were unsuccessful. For her team, the key to success was teamwork, but their downfall was underestimating opponents. This led to a record of 6-19, where the total amount of losses more than tripled the total amount of wins. With that being said, Jilly understood that to be a good team they needed to play as a collective unit.

“If we lose, we lose as a team and if we win, we win as a team,” Jilly said. “When we won games I felt proud of both myself and my team.”

Jilly is not the only person who has felt this way about their team. Freshman Luke Gutke recently finished his soccer season, and also felt that his team was only partially successful. They finished with a record of 2-11, but even though their record was poor, Gutke felt that his team did have good moments.

“My team was successful in occasional moments because we beat the other team to the ball, had some skill with dribbling, and passed well.” Gutke said.

Gutke’s team was capable of good play and sometimes showed it, but were also unable to keep up that level of play for the duration of their season.

While Gutke and Jilly’s teams had similar seasons, Jilly’s team was very good at working together and Gutke’s was not.

“We barely had any chemistry and we couldn’t get

the ball down the field.” Gutke said.

Gutke’s team could not figure out how to use teamwork on the field, and it resulted in only partial success. However, for Jilly’s team, great teamwork was not quite enough to save them from the same partial success that the freshman soccer team faced.

‘‘

NO SUCCESS Even though, Palmieri, Larsen, Jilly and Gutke felt a certain degree of success in their losing seasons, some people do not feel that way at all. Sometimes, people who experience a losing season just simply do not feel successful at all. This is the case for sophomore Brandon Pinto. Pinto’s freshman soccer season was Antioch’s first ever soccer season without a single win. The team finished with a season record of 0-11-1.

“No, I did not feel that we were successful last season,” Pinto said. “The reason is not only because we failed to win a game, but also because we seemed to lack effort at points of the season.”

Failing to win a game was not Pinto’s only reason for not feeling successful, he felt that his team did not try hard enough or put in the effort necessary to turn their season around. Pinto said that he also lacked effort during certain games because he started to go into games expecting a loss which made him not play as hard as he needed to. Looking back at the season, he realized that this was the biggest issue with his team.

“We should not have assumed that our games would immediately go in as a loss,” Pinto said. “It came to the point where going into games we were just laid back.”

Pinto’s team has shown that, as Palmieri and Larsen said, hard work is the true key to athletic success.

Without hard work, motivation, and confidence, a team is set up for a disappointing season.

WE SEEMED TO LACK EFFORT.

BRANDON PINTO

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FEATURES | October 27, 2017 | The Burnt Orange Issue

MEETING A

HAPPY MEDIUM Different coaches have different approaches in leading their teams to success.

KARLEY K. ROGALSKI team leader // @karley_rogalski

JR Johnson

20

E

ven if a student is not involved in a sport, they can still name a coach that never stops pressuring their team to work harder. The coach that is constantly pushing their team over their limits to the point where everyone on the team wants to quit. On the other hand, students can also name a coach that does not do much for their team, even when they are constantly losing against everyone they play. A coach that is okay with everything as long as they are getting a paycheck at the end of the day. Every athlete prefers a different type of coach that suits the way they want to learn, but it is best for everyone on the team when the coach reaches a happy medium that allows everyone to be comfortable and learn new skills at their own pace.

The term “laid back coaching style” does not have to be applied solely to coaches that are relaxed to the point where they do not care for their team. It can also apply to coaches that let their team learn on their own or work with other teammates to get better. This style of coaching can help the athletes work together, along with allowing the coach to work with the athletes individually so that each member of the team can have a chance to work on improving their own personal skills.

During practice, I primarily play with my team and talk to them to see what they are thinking for different shots,” varsity golf coach Andrew Benton said. “Everybody needs to work on different things. Especially in golf, we don’t have to run the same offense or same defense. Maybe someone needs to work on chipping and someone else need to work on putting. If you’re a relaxed coach, that will allow you flexibility.”

Nonetheless, there are still negatives to a laid back coaching style that can shine through the positives. When a team is in the middle of a game and does not know what to do next, the effects of not practicing as hard as they should have start to take action. Since the team did not learn what to do in practice, they usually do not know what to do in a game and end up losing because the coach did not push them hard enough.

“I am constantly talking to the kids on the field as they are playing versus a laid back coach that would maybe not talk to the kids while they are on the field, and wait until they came off the field to talk to them,” varsity field hockey coach Terry Dewing said. “I think it benefits the kids as they are playing because in field hockey, they are on the field and can hear me so they can adjust and do what I need them to do while they are still out on the field.”

On the contrary, a strict approach to coaching can also not be good for a team. It can put extra pressure on the athletes and lead them down a path to do worse.

They are focused on the technical side of a sport and not the actual game, when it comes time to battle against another team. Also, strict coaching can turn athletes against each other and cause them to want to take their anger out on someone, which can unfortunately be people on their own team.

“I think kids feel like you’re sometimes pushing them too much,” wrestling coach Luke Karner said. “I think sometimes [coaches] can get so lost with that [coaching], that you end up not enjoying stuff that you should, like when you accomplish things or you do something really well, so you have to take the time to enjoy when things are good and make sure that you are enjoying yourself. Otherwise, what’s the point.”

However, there are positives to having a strict coaching style. The coaches can help the team stay focused and learn more in a shorter amount of time, and it can help the athletes stay motivated and want to continue getting better. Also, it allows the team to easily communicate with each other and understand what needs to happen in a variety of different situations.

“Pressure keeps kids motivated,” Karner said. “I think that, like in any activity, if you feel like you can do everything and you’re not pushed, you’re not really challenged so you’re not really trying. If there is a challenge in front of you and DID YOU KNOW? you’re trying to keep getting better or trying to reach another goal, then it’s always going to motivate Coaches are typically required you to work hard and that’s an important ethic to to have a knowledge of exercise science, sports medicine and develop.” physical education.

The happy medium comes when a coach learns

Eleni Sakas

“You have to find that line between relaxed and strict,” Benton said. “There is somewhere, a little sweet spot, in the middle that’s different for each player too. So some players might do better with a more relaxed end of the spectrum while others might do better with a more strict end of the spectrum. You have to, as a coach, decide which one you need to pick.”

Whether an athlete needs a strict coach to work harder or a to balance discipline with the ability to have fun. A SOURCE // NICOLE VULCAN CAREER TREND laid back coach to be able to have fun, everyone has their own team needs to work hard to get better, but there are opinion of the perfect coach. However, it comes down to who also times when having fun can help teams learn the coach is because each coach was taught in a different way. what they need to do as well. Some players tend These different upbringings can change their personal perspective on what to enjoy these coaches because as an athlete they are learning a new needs to happen to accomplish goals they have already set for the team. skill, and as a student they can have time to enjoy the sport that they love to play.

Eleni Sakas

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NO TIME TO WASTE 22

Student athletes strive to have playing time on their team sport.

GIANNA M. CHIAPPETTA tom tom staff // @gigiic29

Fingers sweating, heavy breathing, constantly fidgeting but sitting on the bench. Waiting to get their name called, athletes on the bench sit eager to get on the field. Being a part of a team does not mean equal playing time. One team and one family still means there is competition between athletes.

Antioch is known for having talented student athletes, oftentimes making it twice as hard to earn a starting position on a sports team. Those who are not as lucky to be first string are forced to work ten times harder to be considered for a chance at a starting position.

For senior wide receiver Javen London, a starting position was one of his biggest dreams. Growing up, London was not as lucky as other athletes. He did not begin his football career until his junior year, due to his mother’s disapproval of football.

“One day I just tried out without her permission and now I play football,” London said.

Despite his “setback,” he has worked extra hard to prove to the coaches he is worthy of a starting position. For London’s first organized game of football ever, he was not prepared to get his name called. He spent most of the night worrying for the rest of the team and did not even consider the possibility that the starting wide receiver would get injured–giving him the opportunity to play.

“I didn’t play varsity, but it was the first game,” London said. “We didn’t have a JV game yet and the actual varsity player got hurt in the second play, so I went in for the rest of the game and it was a fun experience.”

From that day on, London’s dream went from wanting to join the football team to wanting to get out on the field again.

“I’m a real hype man,” London said. “I get everybody pumped up for games and at practice. I’m also a voice if somebody doesn’t feel comfortable talking to a coach about something.”

Getting his career started was not that easy, and proving his ability was not any easier. But with the right mindset, London was able to earn a starting position in the game that holds a special place in his heart.

Some athletes are naturals when it comes to playing their sport, and others have to work for it. For junior running back Cole Niemi, playing football was not even a thought until his freshman year. Growing up, Niemi’s main focus was hockey. He did not consider juggling both sports until he started high school.

Each game day, Niemi’s mind set is hoping for the best and expecting the worst. He dreams of playing on the field, and never gives his hopes up that he will be given the opportunity.

“I go in whenever they need me,” Niemi said. “It’s just nice being part of the team and being on such a good team.”

When given the opportunity to play on the field for varsity, Niemi feels a mix of emotions. “[When my name gets called] I get nervous, but also really excited,” Niemi said. “[Being a part of this team], means a lot. I feel like I’ve built a good relationship with the guys on my team and I consider some of them brothers.”

Not everyone is built to participate in a sport; with practice and patience, athletes can be taught how to be just as amazing as those born to play.

For senior varsity soccer forward Jordan DeLara, participating in soccer was one last item to check off his high school bucket list.

“My previous soccer experience would be playing soccer at my old school and also club soccer for my fourth and fifth grade years,” DeLara said.

Not only does DeLara want to leave Antioch Community High School as an alumnus varsity soccer player, but he also wants to be remembered for his role on the team and leave a legacy.

“What made me want to tryout for soccer this year was my passion to try things that challenge me,” DeLara said. “I have always wanted to tryout for soccer, but I have never had the courage to tryout for the team.”

Even though it’s his first year on varsity, DeLara is open minded for how he expected the season to turnout. Being able to play on varsity is a big deal. He has always been known for participating in the ACHS theatre program, but being recognized for his efforts in soccer is an honor he hopes will be remembered.

“Being part of so many extracurricular activities plays no effect on my role on the team,” DeLara said. “There are days that I have to miss practice to go to rehearsal, but that does not change my role on the team [and that’s the] same as all my other teammates: to just be a good player and give my all for my team.”

DeLara is always striving for the best, and he does not stop working until his dreams are achieved. The hunger he has to play on varsity is empowering.

“The time that I have on the field means a lot,” DeLara said. “It’s to show my family, friends and everyone else what I can do with some hard work and dedication.”

The eagerness to play on the ACHS soccer team has DeLara putting in his best efforts. He not only tries his best for himself, but to also make his family proud.

“When it comes to playing time I have to just work my hardest and hope the coaches like what I put on the field,” DeLara said.

In every sport, there is always going to be competition between players for playing time. Everyone has their story as to why they wish to be on top, but it is whoever wants it most and works the hardest for it that will end up with the longer end of the stick. ACHS is fortunate to have a wide variety of athletes to choose from, but it always makes the decision of who receives playing time much harder. Everyone has to be on their A-game, making for little time to waste. For those who waste time, they will be spending most of their time on the bench.

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BEYOND THE FIELD | October 27, 2017 | The Burnt Orange Issue

BURNT OUT

Sports are often a focus for young people but there are many factors that take adolescents away from their passions as early as high school.

JOHN P. PETTY senior editor // @johnppetty

I

t is said that in a lifetime, one will regret more of what they didn’t do, and less of what they did do. This means that not all decisions will be favorable in the long run, yet nothing is worse than wishing something had been done and then one day realizing it’s too late. One issue for young people in society today is determining when it’s best to turn the page, or close the book completely. After all, some moments only come around one time, and only come around during the adolescent years.

As far as societal values in the present era, sports play a large role in all walks of life. Sports of all kinds, including youth, high school, collegiate and even professional, in many cases, hold heavy value for participants, parents and fans. In some ways, there are oftentimes expectations regarding playing sports or understanding them in the present day. Competitive physical activities may not be for everyone, and there is nothing wrong with that. Yet for many coaches, parents and those who play, many factors contribute to giving up a sport, even after a short period of time.

For many athletes, the interest in a sport was most likely developed from a person in close proximity to them. Apart from finding a specific sport intriguing, parents or guardians may suggest or even force their children to participate. Former football player Kristian Jimenez was not one of these kids growing up, but his parents did insist that he do something outside of school.

“My parents never insisted that I specifically played football but they said I must do some sort of extracurricular activity,” Jimenez said.

For many kids across the country however, parents can be the number one reason for ‘too much, too soon.’ This means that sometimes parents may force their children to try a sport, but they also look to get them involved in youth sports at a very young age. Although becoming familiar with a sport from a young age can be helpful in development, the negatives such as cost, travel and injury may indeed outweigh the benefits. Many children will fall in love with a sport or multiple starting at a young age and never lose their desire or willingness to play. Yet, for other kids, constant playing within youth and travel sports may cause them to feel obligated to continue, or they may simply lose interest. In high school, this is one of the main reasons athletes decide to give up their hobbies, whether their parents contributed to their decision or not.

It is not always true that the kids that decide to go without one sport give up on all sports. A number of athletes feel that giving up playing multiple sports in order to become very good at one is the best way to utilize time.

Benefits of this method would be that all extra time could be contributed to just one sport, in hopes to become more well-equipped for collegiate athletics or pure enjoyment. Yet, there is also the thinking that it is better to play everything available while there is still the chance. After all, for the average person, sports are only available for ten percent or less of life. Jimenez mentions that there are upsides to both methods of thinking.

“I think it depends on what you’re trying to do, if you want to be a college athlete then it is beneficial to specialize in one [sport],” Jimenez said. “If you want to be in good shape or just want to be a good athlete in general then trying to do multiple sports will help keep you a well-rounded athlete.”

Senior Alex Larson played soccer all through high school until he decided

24

JR Johnson A student-athlete leaves the locker room after deciding to give up sports. For some athletes, the commitment is too much.“Sometimes it is better to just move on with your life,” senior Alex Larson said.

to give it up after his junior year.

“I primarily stopped playing soccer because I wanted to focus on basketball,” Larson said.

‘Specializing’ as it is often called, whether it is positive or negative, is a reason that a large portion of high school athletes stop playing a sport. The feeling of being burned out is possibly the ultimate reason for the giving up of an extracurricular activity and can be the result of any of the aforementioned factors.

The phrase ‘burnt out’ is used to describe the feeling that although something may have been enjoyable, it is possible to have too much of a good thing. Over the course of a season and even sports career, it is normal to feel tired and sore from time to time, yet being burnt out refers more to mental fatigue and the decision to not continue. When asked if he had ever felt burnt out, Jimenez explained he never felt sick of football but occasionally it was tough.

“There were a few days when I wasn’t feeling well and going to football just took the rest of the energy from me,” Jimenez said.

The reason Jimenez did not play football after his sophomore season was not due to feeling tired of it or specialization, but more so he had issues within his family.

“I stopped playing my sport because I was having problems with my family,” Jimenez said. “We were supposed to be moving to Ohio but instead, my parents ended up going through a divorce so I had to spend time supporting my little brothers.”

Although Jimenez was not forced to play youth sports or too tired of his own sport, when given the chance to play his senior year, he declined and decided to focus on school and preparation for college.

The fact of the matter is that there are several factors that may contribute to high school athletes deciding to give up one or more sports. Although parents may inspire their children with ways to get active that are fun, sometimes they push too hard and it shows in the long run. Whether it seems beneficial to specialize in one sport or try them all, it is important to remember that high school lasts for four short years and sports are only available competitively for a small portion of one’s life. No matter the positive or negative opinions regarding sports, it is also important to remember that usually regrets (sport-related or not) stem from not going forth with something, rather than taking action.

Sequoit teachers found success beyond the classroom as collegiate athletes, ultimately bringing their experiences to the fields and courts of ACHS.

MONICA E. WILHELM senior editor // @monicawilhelm

1991 Terry Dewing 25

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BEYOND THE FIELD | October 27, 2017 | The Burnt Orange Issue

a spot on the field. There were many days when I doubted myself.”

Proving herself, Polakow became a starter for all four years of her career, earning an All-Conference honor as a senior. Since the first day, Polakow had made instant friendships that will last her a lifetime. Today, she continues to inspire kids to work their hardest to accomplish any dream that they have in sports and in life.

MARNI POLAKOW | UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA—LAS VEGAS Marni Polakow is on her tenth year as an Antioch Community High School physical education teacher. When she is not on the weight deck with her

CHARLIE TROUT | MONMOUTH UNIVERSITY Years pass, but memories last forever. Charlie Trout of the social studies department graduated from both Carl Sandburg Community College and Monmouth University where he played basketball and soccer. Trout started soccer his senior year at Monmouth college when he decided to try a new sport.

“I enjoyed playing at the college level because everybody was their high school’s best player so the play quality and speed was much higher,” Trout said.

Trout is currently concluding coaching his 52nd season coaching both girls and boys and soccer; he also spent five years coaching basketball and four coaching track.

physical best classes, she is on the soccer field as the head coach of both girls and boys varsity soccer. Growing up, Polakow learned about life with a soccer ball always at her feet. Polakow attended Stevenson High School where she began getting recruited by many Division I schools for soccer.

Accepting a full ride scholarship, Polakow started the next chapter of her life as an outside back for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

“I loved traveling all over the country and internationally to play the sport that I loved more than anything else,” Polakow said.

For Polakow, there was no amount of fitness that could prepare her for the demands of the transition into the college game.

“I expected pre-season to be hard, but it was way harder than anything I had ever done in my life,” Polakow said. “Every practice was a competition for

TERI KLOBNAK | EASTERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY P.E. department chair Teri Klobnak came in with her freshman class as a forward walk-on for Eastern Illinois University. While the college level was not what she was used to, college soccer quickly became the best days of her life.

“My freshman year was really hard,” Klobnak said. “There were so many other athletes that were really skilled that I often questioned if I was good enough to play with them. My skill work was not up to the ability of many of them, but I had the work ethic to become better.”

Three out of her four years at Eastern, Klobnak and her team made it to the NCAA tournament as an automatic bid to the top 64 teams in college

ew high school athletes have the chance to take their game to the collegiate level, so when the opportunity arose, these Antioch teachers took it and ran. They now draw from their previous experiences from college sports to help students be successful. In doing so, the determination, work ethic and leadership skills learned on a college level team have carried into coaching and teaching.

Christopher Bailey Division I Cross Country

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Terry Dewing Division I Field Hockey

Marni Polakow Division I Soccer

Chad Rusk Division I Swimming

Teri Klobnak Division I Soccer

Hilary O’Donnell Division I Softball

1982 Charlie Trout

2000 Jamie Walton

soccer. Klobnak’s favorite memory was being the conference MVP after making the fifth penalty kick to win it for her team.

MITCHELL MUNDA | UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN—PLATTEVILLE Mitchell Munda has been welcomed to the Sequoit family this year as he fills new shoes in the Physical Education department. Munda uses his experience as an assistant football coach for the Sequoit varsity football team. Before hanging up the cleats, Munda played football as a Division III wide receiver for the University of Wisconsin, Platteville. College football was a huge change for Munda entering as a freshman.

“Everyone was bigger, faster and stronger than me but I had to play against those upperclassmen everyday,” Munda said. “Unlike high school athletics, no one is pushing you to improve, go to class or workout, everything is up to you.”

One of his greatest accomplishments is becoming a starter for three years as well as helping lead his team to their first playoff win.

“There was so many memories throughout my college sports career, it is hard to narrow it down to one,” Munda said. “I would say just being to able suit up every Saturday afternoon and playing the sport I love with my Platte-

Mitchell Munda Division III Football

Julia Wieda Division I Cheerleading

Ryan Hlinak Division I Wrestling

2002 Marni Polakow ville teammates that turned into my life-long brothers.”

TERRY DEWING | OHIO UNIVERSITY Head varsity field hockey coach Terry Dewing attended many camps that exposed her to colleges for field hockey. Dewing committed to Ohio University as a sweeper on the defensive line. Coming from a highly successful high school team, the transition into the college game was easy for Dewing.

“My freshman year I was fortunate to earn a starting position and we won the MAC title beating Ball State,” Dewing said.

Playing at such a high level before college helped Dewing to have confidence in herself, which had translated into her game. Winning the MAC title and being fortunate enough to have put her impact in that game will remain her favorite memory from her college experience.

JULIA WIEDA | NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY P.E. and Driver’s Education teacher Julia Wieda tried out for a sport that takes a lot of dedication as well as physical and mental strength. Wieda had a three day tryout that put her at the top 25 out of 50 to become a Northern Illinois University cheerleader.

Jamie Walton Division III Volleyball/Golf/Softball

Charlie Trout Division I Basketball/Soccer

Neil Farlow Division III Football

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BEYOND THE FIELD | October 27, 2017 | The Burnt Orange Issue

2004 Ryan Hlinak “Lifting in the morning, typically at 6:00 am, I would then attend my classes for that day, followed by a 3 hour practice later in the evening,” Wieda said. “Thursdays to travel and get to where we needed to be for the football team. During basketball season, we cheered for both men and women home games multiple times per week.”

ing a P.E. teacher, O’Donnell had big dreams that she made a reality when she committed to play Division I softball at Valparaiso University.

“I dedicated so many days, weekends and years of my life to the sport and to be told that I was worthy and capable of playing at the next level was truly amazing,” O’Donnell said. “I am forever

If Wieda could give any advice, it would be to be ready to work. While collegiate sports are exciting and fun, they are by no means easy. While Wieda’s biggest accomplishment throughout her four years was making it to Nationals in Daytona, her most memorable event was when the NIU football team made the GoDaddy Bowl game.

“We flew out to Mobil, Alabama, where we spent the weekend,” Wieda said. “We spent time working charities and going to events with the football team. We were also in the Mardi Gras parade, and in front of hundreds of people the entire weekend.”

grateful and indebted to the game.”

O’Donnell believes that every athlete should take care of their body in preparation for college sports because being able to play at the collegiate level is a once in a lifetime opportunity that has the power to change one’s life forever.

“Love and respect the game that you play and be grateful that someone, somewhere, believed in you,” O’Donnell said.

O’Donnell knew that she was not the best, but she fought every day to prove that she deserved to be on the team and that she belonged.

“You fight for everything you want; nothing is handed to you,” O’Donnell said. “I had many moments when I felt out-played by someone and it gave me the drive to work even harder.”

RYAN HLINAK | UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO Ryan Hlinak, of the math department, was a wrestler in the 149 lb weight class at the University of Chicago. Out of season, Hlinak worked hard to keep his fitness up in order to have a smooth transition into the college level.

“Make sure you come into school in the fall in great shape,” Hlinak said. “The learning curve was pretty steep for me, so it really helped that my conditioning was good coming in.”

Senior year, Hlinak became a captain, helping lead his team to qualify for the NCAA tournament by winning the Midwest Regional. Hlinak was a two-time UAA Conference Champion.

“The countless great times with my teammates going to and from meets, staying in hotels and grinding out practice after practice would have to be my favorite memory,” Hlinak said. “To this day, my best friends are the guys I wrestled with in college.”

HILARY O’DONNELL | VALPARAISO UNIVERSITY Hilary O’Donnell is new to the Sequoit family and P.E. department this year. Outside of becom28

2004 Teri Klobnak

JAMIE WALTON | CARROLL UNIVERSITY Jamie Walton of the P.E. department was a well-rounded athlete at the Division III level.

Walton attended Carroll University as a three-sport athlete. In the fall, Walton was an outside hitter for the volleyball team her freshman and sophomore year, followed by golf her junior and senior year. In the fall, Walton was an outfielder and catcher for Carroll’s Women’s Softball team.

“I am a firm believer in being a multi-sport athlete in high school,” Walton said. “So many athletes specialize in one sport these days and I think playing multiple sports has more benefits.

By the time I graduated high school I was the only female athlete that played three sports all four years of high school.”

Walton felt very prepared for the transition into the collegiate level of sports. She worked extremely hard in the offseason to prepare for her next sport. To this day, her favorite memories are those that she had made with all of her teammates.

2010 Neil Farlow

NEIL FARLOW | BENEDICTINE UNIVERSITY Special education teacher Neil Farlow was a tight end and fullback for Benedictine University’s football team. Transitioning into the college game, Farlow found that the speed and complex play book were the most difficult to adjust to.

“Playing sports in college is like a part-time job,” Farlow said. “To make it, you definitely have to love and be dedicated to the sport.”

According to Farlow, his biggest accomplishment was maintaining and graduating with a 3.0 GPA for all four years of college. Farlow has many memories from the playing field, but the ones he has kept close to his heart were those with his teammates.

“What I remember most is the camaraderie with all of my teammates and all of our inside jokes,” Farlow said. “The bonds that are formed on and off the field are something that lasts a lifetime.”

CHAD RUSK | BALL STATE UNIVERSITY As head of the world languages department, Chad Rusk is on his third year as a Sequoit. Following a very self-appointed recruitment process, Rusk chose to attend Ball State University as a sprinter on the swim team.

“College sports were way better than I could’ve imagined,” Rusk said. “I learned so much about training, management [of time, nutrition, sleep, goals], technique, the importance of cultivating a good team, and gain a ton of self-confidence.”

The transition was rough for the freshman walk-on. Rusk doubted himself frequently due to the fact that he did not swim all year round or have any major training until the collegiate level.

“I stopped making excuses for myself and worked really, really hard,” Rusk said.

Working his way up, Rusk had a successful year as a junior at Ball State. Leading the team as a captain, Rusk became the best sprinter on the team, finishing third in the 50 freestyle at the MAC Championship and making first-team All-Conference and top 75 in Division I 50 freestyle.

2013 Julia Wieda

2015 Hilary O’Donnell

2017 MItchell Munda

Bailey’s journey toward becoming a coach included a stint as a Division I cross country runner, and a realization that football just wasn’t his thing.

JOSEPH M. KESTIAN tom tom staff // @j_kestian9

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or the past nine years, Christopher Bailey has been the head coach for the boys and girls cross country teams at Antioch Community High School. He knows the sport well and has incorporated his experience into his coaching style. Cross country was not the sport Bailey began with— as most would assume—but he soon realized the sport was made for him.

“I played football and quickly realized they were not in need of an 80 pound linebacker, so my dad encouraged me to go out for cross country,” Bailey said. “I did it as an eighth grader and enjoyed it ever since.”

Bailey began his career at West Mont High School, where he was successful in the sport.

He was a two-time state champion in 1993 and 1994, and his senior year his team placed 4th in the state. He also won state in the 3,200 meters and took second in the 1,600 meters his senior year. After graduating, Bailey went on to attend Illinois State University where his success continued. He won ten individual conference championships and was an All-American in 1999 in the 10,000 meters. He was named the Illinois State University Athlete of the Year in 1998 and 1999, and he was inducted in the school’s Hall of Fame in 2012.

1999 Christopher Bailey Like all coaches, Bailey is always looking for a way where he can help and push his athletes toward success. His accomplishments in the sport help him know what it takes for an athlete to succeed at a high level. He also uses his experience to motivate his athletes and keep their confidence high, so they don’t get down on themselves when hard work doesn’t always result in success.

“I think I understand the mental toughness to the sport,” Bailey said. I’ve been there, and it’s just trying to encourage them to get through it. It’s easy when it gets tough to say you want to quit or stop running, so I think that since I have been in that situation and I’m able to pull more out of the kids and keep them going.”

Sharing his love for the sport is a reason Bailey came to the decision to coach cross country at Antioch. Being a teacher at the school, he enjoys being around teenagers and likes the environment they create for him as a coach.

“I love being around teenage guys and girls; the interaction I have with them is a lot of fun,” Bailey said. “It’s fun watching high schoolers set goals and achieve them and I enjoy coaching, watching sports and being around kids who enjoy it as much as I do.”

Bailey has impressions on his athletes, making them believe that anything can be accomplished as long as you set your mind to it and attack the goal.

Junior Natalie Hill and senior Kaitlyn Castillo share Bailey’s willingness to help his athletes first hand.

“Coach Bailey is great,” Hill said. “You can tell he really cares about all of the kids on the team, and he shows it through all the little things he does for us. He’s always flexible and listens to what kids need to keep getting better.”

He also helps his athletes when they are overcoming an injury by helping them make the small steps needed to get back in the groove of running long distances.

“He has inspired me in small ways, but to me they make a difference,” Castillo said. “Since I’m a manager now, I work out more of when I want to with the team rather than a necessity because I am injured. He has inspired me to be okay with taking small steps to build up to things like completing a full work out for the first time in over a year. He still talks to me as if I had never stopped being one of his athletes and [pushes] me to do better than I thought I could do after being out for so long.”

The sport of cross country and the opportunities Bailey has been able to have as a coach have impacted his life more than ever. Like a lot of coaches, his life revolves around the sport he is so involved with. He enjoys being able to impact a child’s life through coaching because sometimes the relationship between a coach and their athlete will trump a relationship with family and friends.

“If I have a cross country runner that plays basketball, I love going to watch them play in the winter,” Bailey said. “Even though I’m not coaching them I still like to be involved in their lives outside of school and outside of the sport that we are involved with together.”

A beneficial coach is one that never gives up on their athletes and is willing to help them through any situation whether it be in the sport or not.

Bailey is a coach that feeds off of seeing his athletes succeed and that is what keeps him enjoying the sport he came to love so long ago.

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BEYOND THE FIELD | October 27, 2017 | The Burnt Orange Issue

LIVING A LEGACY

Sequoits following in their family’s footsteps and handling the pressure.

BENJAMIN J. NAUMAN tom tom staff// @bnauman48

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ome of the most well known stories throughout schools are those of the successful and popular varsity athletes. People know of their achievements, faults and upcoming events, but what about the younger siblings living in the shadows of these athletes? What is it like to have to live up to the name that these older athletes have made so well known?

People deal with stress and pressure differently. When pressured to recreate the success of older siblings, the younger sibling may go about recreating that success differently. Some people try to be like the person that was successful, while others choose to try something completely different, and some may try a combination of both.

THE SCHOENFELDERS “I was proudest of Niall when he decided that he was going to go his own way in terms of sports,” Sequoit alumnus Patrick Schoenfelder said. “He didn’t feel the need to follow me or [our older sister] Erin. He’s going to make his own path.”

Niall Schoenfelder, the younger brother of 160-pound IHSA State Champion wrestler Patrick, has a plan to create his own chapter in the story that his older brother already began.

N. Schoenfelder does however try to learn from his brother’s mistakes, and also observes the way his older brother acts and handles situations.

Even though there are still some skills that N. Schoenfelder would like to learn from his brother, there are some things he can do that P. Schoenfelder wishes that he was capable of doing.

“There is a lot of pressure on me when I wrestle, because Pat was so

Steven Schoenfelder Niall (left) and Patrick (right) Schoenfelder after Patrick officially commited to UNI.

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Merrick Foote successful,” Niall said. “I worry that I will not be able to continue what he has accomplished.”

Although stressful, being P. Schoenfelder’s younger brother has had some benefits for N. Schoenfelder, such as an obvious advantage in wresting like having P. Schoenfelder help him whenever possible, whether it is with technique or even a drill. P. Schoenfelder challenges N. Schoenfelder and constantly pushes him past where N. Schoenfelder believes to be his own limit, thus making him a better athlete.

“Niall would do anything you ask, and I think that the biggest impact on his life is that Pat has really tried to spend a lot of time with Niall, allowing him to get better,” father of P. Schoenfelder and N. Schoenfelder, and athletic director at Antioch Community High School, Steven Schoenfelder said.

THE ESPINOSAS Being in school together and sharing the high school experience with a sibling is always a treat. Playing the same sport, however, can be even better. Sophomore Emmanuel Espinosa and his brother, senior Ezequiel Espinosa, both play offensive guard, and are able to share some of the excitements of high school together on the football field. Ez. Espinosa tries his best to always be sure that Em. Espinosa is always healthy and performing his best, both while playing football and in the classroom.

“He is a great example because he is always pushing me to do better at everything, such as sports and academics, and he always wants me to stay healthy,” Em. Espinosa said. “He is an amazing person for me to be able to look up to and I want to be just like him.”

Ez. Espinosa has always felt he has been viewed as somewhat of an underdog, and a reason that he feels Em. Espinosa looks up to him is because he has been able to ignore the label people put on him, becoming one of the most talented athletes on the Sequoit varsity football team. Despite being an amazing role model, Ez. Espinosa’s success has made some things difficult for Em. Espinosa. Much like N. Schoenfelder, Em. Espinosa feels pressured to be just like his brother, or even better.

Merrick Foote Josh Lynn stands on the sideline with the Antioch varsity soccer team and watches his brother Adam Lynn as the Sequoits play Richmond Burton. The boys would move on to win this regional qualifying game 5-0. “It is usually hard for me to be a good example while we are losing a game, or have just lost a game,” A. Lynn

Merrick Foote Rebecca (left) and Kaitlyn (right) Bargamian on the sideline of the Antioch football game on Friday October 13, against North Chicago. The sisters enjoy being able to

said.”But usually I just need the motivation from him to keep moving,”

be on the varsity cheer team together. “[Kaitlyn] is a freshman and is alread

“I feel that I set a lot of high standards for him,” Ez. Espinosa said, “If he can meet or beat those standards, I feel that he will feel accomplished and be able to do a lot.”

THE BARGAMIANS Having a sibling to look up to in a sport is always an advantage, but being able to look up to and learn from two people is even better. This is the case for freshman cheerleader Kaitlyn Bargamian. Alumna Alexandra Bargamian and junior Rebecca Bargamian have participated on the Antioch cheer team.

Having A. Bargamian and R. Bargamian as sisters has not only helped K. Bargamian cheer wise, but it has also made her transition to high school a lot smoother.

“Having them has helped me a lot,” K. Bargamian said. “They both did cheer, so coming into high school most of my teachers and fellow classmates knew who I was because of them, and it just made my transition a lot easier.”

Being the youngest of the sisters, K. Bargamian has had many opportunities to learn and grow from her sister’s achievements and mistakes.

A. Bargamian and R. Bargamian are always trying their hardest to keep K. Bargamian best set up for success.

“I try to be a role model for Kaitlyn and show her how to represent Antioch varsity cheer,” R. Bargamian said. “We are both on the varsity team together this year, so I try to do my best and give her someone to look up to as an older sister and as a teammate.”

THE LYNNS Coaches are always looking forward and figuring out what players will become an asset to their team in the near future. It is important to know who will be joining the program and how they play because when they arrive in high school, the coach may already have a set place for them. This is the case for fifth grade soccer player Josh Lynn, younger brother of sophomore varsity soccer player Adam Lynn.

“Josh is a very talented soccer player,” varsity soccer coach Marni Polakow said. “And I would be willing to take him on the varsity team right now, even though he is a fifth grader.”

J. Lynn’s level of skill continues to impress everyone that watches him, including his older brother. Even with his high level of skill, he does not have an easy life having A. Lynn as an older brother. A. Lynn has high hopes for J. Lynn’s future, not just in high school, but also at the next level.

“I feel that he could definitely play college soccer and possibly go even farther than that,” A. Lynn said.

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BEYOND THE FIELD | October 27, 2017 | The Burnt Orange Issue

WHAT IT FEELS LIKE TO BE

THE MASCOT

BY SUPERFAN STAN as told to emily torres

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he hot and heavy costume, the crowd cheering behind me, the football team making yet another touchdown: this is my

Being SuperFan Stan has been a memorable experience because no one knows it’s me; I’m one person covered by a mask. There are only a couple of people who know that I am Stan, which are some of my teachers and my parents. None of my friends even know yet.

Football games are exciting, but extremely hot being stuck in a heavy costume all night.

However, the heat does not take away from the amazing feeling you get when you do something as little as lift your arms up and the whole fan section goes wild. It is unexplainable and thrilling, almost like I have control over the fan section. It gives me chills. It is one of the best feelings in the world, getting the whole entire school screaming, shouting and showing their school spirit. It’s fun being on the sidelines, so close to the football field and no one knowing who it is under the

people had to go to the first day of school this year, it was fun being with all of the other “Stan’s” from the different schools because we all got to talk about what being the mascot is like and enjoy time together.

The best experience I have had being SuperFan Stan is when Mr. Hamilton’s daughters tried to teach me how to twirl a flag. I’m sure it was entertaining to watch. But, being Stan is not always great. A frustrating part about being Stan is when people try taking the costume’s head off, or the other “gear” that comes with it.

When being SuperFan Stan it is hard not to talk. The only time that I have ever talked while in costume was when I told a kid to stop when he was trying to take the head off the costume. Other than that, I haven’t talked at all. I haven’t laughed yet while being Stan, but that’s because I know I can’t since it is a part of the job.

Sometimes, going to the basketball games is not enjoyable. It is harder to get a break while in costume during the game because there really

Friday’s. If I hear people saying “I know who Stan is,” when they really don’t, I just want to scream “it’s me.” My friends don’t suspect that I am SuperFan Stan because if I’m not at a game, I just say I couldn’t make it and they don’t think twice about it.

Being SuperFan Stan comes with some pretty odd experiences. I once made Mr. Bailey’s daughter cry because I just looked over at her. Some kids are afraid of the costume and everything but I understand why they are, it can be scary.

Football games can be hard. If I want to be with my friends, I can’t because I have to be Stan.

I would say that’s something I don’t like about being Stan. However, this year I haven’t gone to many of the games as Stan because of how hot it has been.

My experience as SuperFan Stan so far has been a memorable time in my life. While it can be difficult sometimes, the best feeling is getting the crowd excited by raising my arms. I love interact-

mask. As the mascot, you get noticed more while on the sidelines and it’s a fun experience.

Whenever the Lakes Eagle and I are at a game or an event together, it is funny to have the “fake fights” as long as they don’t get taken too far. I enjoy the fights because they can be entertaining and everyone enjoys them; it’s exciting getting people loud and competing with our sister school. At the leadership conference that some

isn’t a good place to “hide.” It’s also sometimes hotter than football games because the gym can get humid, so being in the costume is difficult. I don’t go to many basketball games but the ones I do go to, I have a difficult time taking breaks while the game is going on.

There have been times when I have almost slipped up and told someone that I am Stan and that I’m the one in the costume they see on

ing with people and them not knowing that it’s me.

I am glad that someone was busy once and they asked me to be Stan for a football game because I’ve been having fun ever since. I was nervous at first but now I am used to it. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience.

life.

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Samuel Worden 33

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