MIEGIAN The
STOPPING THE STIGMA
Students emphasize the importance of mental health awareness
It is with great joy that I present to you the first issues of the year. These 28 pages are the result of a tremendous amount of e ort and many late nights, working tirelessly to get everything finished. I want to thank the Design Team, especially design editor, Elise Oblepias, for bringing the stories to life through illustrations. Photo editor, Evan Ulmer, also deserves a big shout out for his kind leadership to the sta and his dedication to helping the photography department produce such quality work. In this edition we cover important topics that impact the world we live in. I hope you find it interesting and relate to the beautiful words of our writers. Thank you to the student body for inspiring our creation; I hope you enjoy reading it.
ELAINA GIBSON PRINT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
THRIVING FLEA MARKET
Juniors Mateo Gajewski and Hudson Wilde bring vendors into River Flea Market in order to make a profit o of the vintage styles being sold. “I’ve always wanted to actually sell at a marketplace, but the fees have never made sense to me,” Gajewski said. “So I decided to just own one myself.” I COURTESY PHOTO
SCAN FOR WEBSITE
Senior Delaney Morrison helps run the annual blood drive on Oct. 23. According to Nurse Malisa McEachen, Miege is one of the top donating schools in the KC metro with 78 students and teachers signing up to donate. I
GIFT OF LIFE
MARY THOMPSON
NEWS BRIEFS
LOCAL
SCREAMS AND SHADOWS
Starting back up at the end of September, the west bottoms haunted houses have been luring in many to the fall features this October. There are main houses with each ranging from animation to horror-movie themed. This year will be the attractions’ 50th year anniversary being open.
STATE
ENERGY EDITIONS
Hyper Energy Bar is coming soon to the Kansas City Metro. This energy drink drive-thru chain has many locations in Iowa, and will begin adding locations in Johnson County. Olathe will get the first Hyper Energy Bar and will soon be serving hundreds of thousands of drink and co ee flavor combinations.
RESILIENT ROYALS
With the Royals’ season ending on Oct. 10, the team posted a 8676 record in the regular season despite not advancing to the AL Championship series. Improving from their 2023 season where the team ended with 106 losses.
DOUBLE DISASTERS
Hurricane Milton hit the gulf coast just two weeks after Hurricane Helen with back to back destruction requiring residents to prepare and evacuate. In the event of Milton, winds averaged 75 to 90 mph and waves gained up to 25 feet high, constructing one of the most powerful natural disasters on record. In response, government o cials are working to restore power and property
PRINT EIC
Elaina Gibson
WEB EIC
MC Dunn
COPY EDITOR
Bella Dessert
ASSISTANT COPY EDITOR
Bria Sutherlin
PHOTO EDITOR
Evan Ulmer
GRAPHICS EDITOR
Jack Gelhaus
SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR
Mary Thompson
DESIGN EDITOR
Elise Oblepias
WRITERS
Bebe Preu
Maggie Maloney
Sophia Hart
DESIGNERS
Cody Israel
Paul Fessler
Samantha Porter
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Clare Hansen
Liza Martinez
Norah Murtha
EDITORIAL POLICY
The Miegian and Bishop Miege Press are published by the newspaper sta of Bishop Miege. The editorial board decides the content of each issue. Opinions expressed are the views of the writer. The Miegian welcomes material (letters, guest columns, feedback) from the community. This material will be reviewed by the editorial board and published based on the publication’s letters policy criteria. Materials can be dropped
o in the journalism room, emailed to newspaper@ bishopmiege.com or mailed to the newspaper in care of Bishop Miege. All letters and columns must be signed. The sta reserves the right to edit letters for length, language or potential libel, and to refuse any articles or advertising submitted. All opinion pieces submitted should contain an email address and a phone number where the writer can be contacted because the sta will confirm all letters.
NEW AND IMPROVED College bound navigate changes in FAFSA
BY MIEGIAN STAFF STAFF NEWS
Last year, the Free Application for Financial Student Aid (FAFSA) received requests from 17.5 million students nationwide for education grants to pay for college according to Bankrate, a consumer financial services company. New changes to the program have expanded granting eligibility to 610,000 more students. Multiple modifications are in the works through the Federal Student Aid to meet student needs.
One change includes the identification process of the term “contributor” on FAFSA forms, which was redefined to anyone asking to provide consent for tax transfers. The general need for consent regarding student aid is another new requirement. A social security number for creating a StudentAid.gov account is no longer required, and financial need is now determined by expected family contributions rather than gross incomes.
These redesigns are intended to make the grant process smoother for students wishing to attend college from low-income backgrounds.
According to administrative assistant Evelyn Lopez, FAFSA is worth applying to regardless of how likely a student expects their request to qualify.
“I think everyone might as well apply,” Lopez said. “It may not only
qualify you to receive federal aid such as Pell Grants or low-interest loans but it’s sometimes also a requirement for scholarships that (students) apply for. It’s really important to apply for FAFSA - plus it’s free, and they’re making it easier to apply, so it makes sense.”
The FAFSA application process opens to seniors on Dec. 1, but some have already created their accounts.
Senior Alessandra Ledesma decided to
“ “
Financial aid is expected to be higher than ever before.
Counselor Elaine Schmidtberger
start the process early to increase her chances of receiving financial aid.
“(FAFSA) takes multiple things into account but at the time you do it matters because I know if you apply when it first opens, you have a higher chance of getting more money,” Ledesma said. “A lot of people like myself go in and try to do it on the first day, and having an account ready will make that quicker.”
Last year, students experienced a series of computer glitches causing lost progress and a slower application process.
College counselors from local universities such as the University of Kansas City Missouri (UMKC) offer their support to current seniors navigating FAFSA through informational talks. Guidance counselor Elaine Schmidtberger spoke with UMKC’s financial aid director Kaje Stanford and is recommending that her students attend.
“People were worried that the revamp was going to be bad for them, but the outlook is promising,” Schmidtberger said. “We had our own FAFSA judgments from last year, but they have said financial aid is expected to be higher than traditionally before: so that’s a very good thing.”
Schmidtberger expressed that seniors faced struggles in applications last year, but the application deadline was extended to 30 June 2025, taking stress off students.
“Last year, FAFSA completions were 30% down compared to any year prior,” Schmidtberger said. “This ended up with people that just didn’t fill it out, and I know a lot of seniors this year are fearing the unknown. But I am confident FAFSA is going to be better this year and all of us (counselors) are always here to help.”
ELECTION SELECTION Seniors prepare to cast first ballot
BY ELAINA GIBSON PRINT EIC
In this day and age where political polarization is high, senior Norah Heise is keeping up with news sites to make educated decisions when it comes to voting new candidates into office.
On Nov. 5, many students who are 18 years old, will cast their first ballots to help elect the next President of the United States. On the 2024 ballot are Democratic candidate, Vice President Kamala Harris, and Republican candidate, former president Donald Trump. This election also includes choices for various local and state candidates.
“It excites me because I’ll be able to have at least some minor say in what happens with my country,” Heise said. “It’s also just another milestone I’ve reached as I continue to grow up, and it’s pretty cool that my turning 18 and an election year happen to coincide.”
In social studies teacher Dan Gemmill’s government class, he leads discussions about responsible voting. His focus is inspiring seniors to stay informed about politicians and their policies.
“We talk about trying to be educated voters which means voting based on the issues rather than the party, gender, or race of the candidates,” Gemmill said. “Students need to take time to become well versed in the issues and in what the candidates stand for instead of what party they are a member of.”
AP Government and U.S. History teacher James Wilcox agrees that voting is a citizen’s civic duty as it is one of the few opportunities for their voices to be heard. According to the Pew Research Center, only 66% of eligible voters made it into the booths for the 2020 presidential election, causing Wilcox to stress the importance
of making voting in every election a practice.
“You look at local elections, and you’re lucky to hit double digits voter turnout,” Wilcox said. “The local elections: your school board, your city council, your mayors, they’re the ones who have the most impact on your everyday life. But voting is a habit, you’ve got to get in the habit of voting, and it’s easier to get into that habit if you’re showing up for the presidential elections.”
Taking the time to scope out the local government and state representatives is important to Heise as she expresses the desire to understand exactly what candidates will serve her wants and needs.
“As far as presidential candidates, I know who I’m voting for,” Heise said. “But when it comes to the other more local ballot decisions like senator, governor, and I think there are a few state laws on the ballot as well, I need to do more research about those candidates and issues before I go vote.
According to Wilcox, in the world of AI and misinformation, students need to be cautious about who and where they are getting their facts from.
“With technology the way it is today, it is so easy to present falsehoods and inaccurate information as legitimate information,” Wilcox said. In my class,
of eligible students plan to vote 93% DESIGN | PAUL FESSLER
ACCORDING
we’ve got a whole chapter on voting and campaigns, but then we’re going to spend a whole lot of time on what is a legitimate news source so you can find accurate information.”
Gemmill admits finding opinion in the chaos is hard for some, so it is important to let go of personal bias when selecting candidates in order to vote on policy and social issues. As for Wilcox, he turns to the pope for guidance on how to vote as a Catholic.
“I also share with students what Pope Francis said about voting,” Wilcox said. “That in any country where you have the power to vote, you should vote, but before you vote, you need to be an informed voter on a variety of issues, not just one. And then you have to pray, and you have to discern who you think is going to do the most good for the most people and the least harm to the fewest number of people.”
As Heise continues to study the facts, she explains how advice from her grandfather has changed her perspective on voting as a whole and will be her final voice of reason.
“My grandfather always told me that if you don’t vote, you can’t complain about the outcome,” Heise said.
“And that there’s never a perfect candidate, it’s always choosing between the lesser of two evils, which is a little cynical, but will definitely guide me when I am making my choice of who to vote for this November.”
SUMMER OF MUSIC
Student reflects on time at camp
BY BEBE PREU STAFF WRITER
Istepped out onto the stage with sweaty palms and a racing mind. This was the biggest stage I had ever performed on, but instead of feeling intimidated, I felt comforted. The front row was full of my best friends, a group of people I had closely bonded with over the busy three weeks I spent with them in the woods of Michigan. I looked at each of them, soaking up my last moments in this unique, artistic environment. When I was ready, I turned to my left and gave my friend Drea the nod to start playing guitar. After a couple of seconds of her strumming, I took a deep breath and began my last performance at Interlochen Arts Camp in Interlochen, Michigan.
I first heard about Interlochen through a friend who went there the summer before. I was hesitant to apply, but she encouraged me to try after hearing me sing. When considering the many different paths to choose, I decided to combine my love of creative writing with singing and apply for the singing and songwriting course. A few months later, I found out I was accepted, and the preparation for camp began.
After months of apprehension, I eventually made it to the northern paradise that is Michigan. My parents dropped me off at cabin 212, my new home for a short while. Once they left,
something shifted. I began to feel the urge to go out into this new environment to see what it had to offer. With my guitar and journal in hand, I set out onto campus and became determined to leave this camp a changed person.
This change began in a stuffy cabin, packed full of dusty folding chairs and guitars, all leading up to the performance area at the front. The first class was nerve-wracking because I had no idea what to expect. My classmates had no fear, they jumped right into performing. I sat there in awe listening to the first song being shared with the class. Each guitar chord and lyric revealed a piece of the performer that I could not have picked out by just talking to them.
Part of what makes songwriting so special is the level of vulnerability and intensity it offers. This made it easy to click with the songwriters around me. Before we even had full conversations, we had already shared pieces of ourselves within our songs. I began to develop a community full of passionate people who hoped to express themselves through music, just like me. I hoped to soak up every drop of this environment because I knew it would be hard to find back home.
My peers at camp found immense joy in songwriting and performing which inspired me throughout my time there.
STRUMMING TO THE BEAT
Performing was no longer something I dreaded. It became a sacred time for me to share what I could not express in just words. We performed every day in class and received feedback from peers and mentors. I got over my fear of being criticized and realized that criticism ultimately stems from one person having faith in another person. Criticism became fuel for the change I hoped to make as an artist and a person.
Once camp ended, I noticed a shift in my perception of my own talents and others talents around me. I developed a complete appreciation for the arts and began to look for ways I could display my work in my community at home. I made an Instagram account solely for the purpose of sharing my music. As of right now, I’m working on finding small venues to perform in. It’s terrifying at first to share a personal side of yourself with strangers, but that thrill is what makes me enjoy creating and sharing my own songs.
I’m not sure where I’ll end up. Since going to camp, I’ve gathered many connections to artists in different states which will help me in the future. Even if I don’t end up performing music professionally, I’m grateful for the unique experience that Interlochen gave me. I hope to carry my love for music with me throughout my life.
DESIGN | ELISE OBLEPIAS
Junior Bebe Preu practices her original songs for her final performance at Interlochen Arts Camp. I COURTESY PHOTO
BREAKING THE FAST
Student weighs in on importance of breakfast
BY CODY ISRAEL STAFF DESIGNER
‘Breakfast is the most important meal of the day,’ is something that we have heard time and time again while growing up. Yet no one seems to eat breakfast anymore. Many people who I talk to claim that they just don’t eat breakfast, even though many of them have the time in the mornings. Some people claim that teens aren’t eating breakfast because of body image issues, which as a teen I completely understand. However, oftentimes not eating breakfast can lead to an unhealthy lifestyle.
Students are just so absolutely slammed with school work that they procrastinate and rush to fi nish in the morning before it is due. Eating breakfast sometimes simply doesn’t fi t into their morning routines, so it just gets skipped. It’s true that schools serve breakfast, usually something like a burrito or a cinnamon roll, but again, many students just don’t have time to stop and eat in the cafeteria before heading to classes.
Some teens just aren’t hungry in the mornings. I understand because I am the same way. But, I would argue
that it’s counterproductive to not eat and then sit through hours of class on an empty stomach when later on it starts rumbling and you realize you were actually hungry the entire time, but there are still more classes to get
From a simple change in routine or even a little extra preparation, you can make time for a quick, on-thego bite or drink. “ “
Junior Cody Israel
through before you can even think about getting lunch. It becomes hard to focus with your stomach growling and thinking about what you’re going
to eat for lunch, all because you didn’t have something as simple as a piece of bacon for breakfast. An empty stomach in the classroom can lead to a dip in mental health. Without proper nutrition, teens can become grumpy, tired and all around not well.
There are many breakfast options for people on the go, such as protein bars or shakes. These easy options are meant for people who don’t have time to stop and eat breakfast and are perfect for busy students.
With a little advanced planning, many breakfast options can satisfy morning hunger before it gets out of control. Hard-boiled eggs or smoothies, prepared the weekend or night before, are quick grab-and-go items that can easily be consumed on the go.
At the end of the day, or beginning of the day, always remember that breakfast is still important and should not be skipped. From a simple change in routine or even a little extra preparation, you can make time for a quick, on-the-go bite or drink. Your body requires food. Your brain and mental health depend on it.
RIP OFF THE MASK The value of being true to self
BY MIEGIAN EDITORS STAFF EDITORIAL
We live in a world where judgment and jealousy are very real and manipulative forces seem to weigh down all of society. Williams Shakespeare’s famous quote from Hamlet, “To thine own self be true”, sums up our reality. In his play, people have to be reminded not to worry about pleasing other people or living by someone else’s rules or standards. Rather, they should live as their natural selves without compromise.
In modern times, the sentiments of this quote are out of reach for even the most confi dent person, with 2024 being one of the most di cult times to be yourself.
How do we stay true to ourselves in times when perfection is constantly being shoved in our faces through social media? These images destroy teenagers’ self-esteem by comparing what is real to unattainable standards. How do we stay true to ourselves when we are surrounded by so many faces and personalities that our di erent from our own? How do we stay true to ourselves if we don’t know what it means to fi nd ourselves fi rst?
rather than the real challenges they face.
Videos and pictures of impossible beauty standards feed our jealousy and can make us insecure when we compare ourselves to these unattainable ideals. We must remember that upholding our values is what
The journey of removing our masks and revealing our true selves begins when we explore what it is we truly value. “ “
Miegian Editors
makes our lives meaningful and guides us towards a more authentic representation of our true self.
from our peers and causes people to succumb to peer pressure that prevents them from being authentic. When we are able to keep our priorities in order, we display courage that helps us develop our true character.
Social media challenges authenticity with the impact of constant information molding our self-image. Feeds can be fi lled with uplifting and amusing posts featuring yummy food recipes or adorable pet videos. But, they can also have a more devastating impact when people use it to portray fake personas of their lives
The journey of removing our masks and revealing our true selves begins when we explore what it is we truly value. Shakespeare attempts to enlighten us on this truth within his quote, pointing out that in order to be ourselves, we must stick to our morals and principles.
As humans our instincts cause us to fear societal rejection. This means we feel anxious when making choices that are di erent
Deciphering our core values strengthens our confi dence in ourselves. People may express their identity through appearance and personality. Many teens fi nd joy in altering their outward appearance to set them apart from everyone else. Trends vary from coquette ribbons, bedazzled jewelry, everchanging shoe styles and stacks of bracelets adorned with slogans. Customizing your outfi t is one way to feel comfortable in your own skin and express yourself to the world around you. Be loud, tell that funny joke, be kind, whatever makes you, you. Don’t change for anyone, just be you and be free. There is no need to pressure yourself to meet an unattainable standard set by society. When we try to be di erent than who we are, we end up being less than who we’re created to be. You are a gift to this world, so don’t rob us of that gift. As Hamlet said, “to thine own self be true.”
STAFF FALL FAVORITES
“‘It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown’ was played countless times growing up during the Halloween season,” junior Bella Dessert said. “The theme song always gives me nostalgia of my early childhood.”
“I watch ‘Hocus Pocus’ every year with my sisters,” junior Bria Sutherlin said. “It brings back memories from when we were younger and fuels a lot of our inside jokes.”
“From a young age ‘Scream’ has always been one of my favorite Halloween movies because my brother and I always watch it together,” senior Sami Porter said.” I especially enjoy that it’s a saterical spin on a horrror movie.”
“Growing up my mom and I always loved watching rom-coms on cold fall days,” senior Elaina Gibson said. “‘You’ve Got Mail’ is the perfect fall flick, mixing my love for Jane Austen and the film ‘The Godfather.’”
BANKING ON BUSINESS Students find different ways to earn money
By Elaina Gibson Print EIC
As junior Spencer Moxley imports coding into his 3D printer, he watches his multidimensional fidget toy products come to life, ready to be sold to students and faculty under his storefront “Spencer’s 3D Things”.
During his time in high school Moxley has developed a couple of businesses including drone video capture, freeze-dried candy or, the one he deems most promising, a fidget toy company. Combining his technological and entrepreneurship interests, the toys have spiked the attention of the student body.
“I started back in 2020 with a cheap (3D) printer I got, and that was fun,” said Moxley. “But it was so tedious that I kind of fell out of 3D printing for a little bit.”
Moxley didn’t completely abandon the creative art. With the advances in technology and the lowering of costs, he was inspired to pick up the craft once again after a purchase.
“Just recently, a very popular brand of 3D printers released a cheap alternative, which I got for Christmas, that led me to get back into printing for personal use. Once I started doing it more, I realized people are interested in the stuff I make, so
much so that I’m able to sell it.”
Committing about five hours a week to make the fidgets, Moxley finds models he deems captivating online and imports them into his printer for final execution. These designs are intended to help people concentrate harder in class or for satisfying use.
“Part of business success is sales,” Moxley said. “A lot of people see me using them during class or I’ll hand them out, and people can try them; they kind of sell themselves.
Inspired by those closest to him, Moxley credits his entrepreneurship ambitions to his family members who have pursuits of their own.
“My parents own the Plato’s closet on Mission and have started a couple of other businesses over the years,” Moxley said. “My brother owns a lawn care business that I work for, and so that’s definitely where I get it from. Seeing them do that makes me think about how that’s what I want to do myself.”
Founder of Warden’s Detailing, senior Nolan Ward has also found inspiration in looking to others. After working at a car wash he decided to use the money he saved to buy equipment to start a car detailing business.
“It’s mobile service-based, so I go to
the clients,” Ward said. “There’s different services I offer: doing the interiors of cars, the exteriors of cars, and we also offer additional protection. That’s what most people use
The main things I spend my money on are food and activities I do during time with my friends and family. “ “
Sophomore Lucy Herrold
detailing for, it’s not just to clean, but to protect their belongings and investments.”
In the first year of business, Ward has spent most of his profit reinvesting into the company and adding to his savings account. Although he has made over $12k in profit, money is not the only thing that fuels his desire for success.
“My passion is helping people out who feel overwhelmed,” Ward said. “So a lot of people contact us when they feel like they can’t clean the mess that’s accumulated. For them, it’s very hassle-free, we go to them so they don’t have to worry about anything. We take the problem off their hands, and it gives me a lot of satisfaction.”
While running a business can be rewarding, many students go a more traditional route. Having a plethora of jobs ranging from retail to lifeguarding to bussing tables, high schoolers work with the intent of making some extra cash to support their lifestyle. While some are more frivolous with their hard-earned funds, others frugally spend in efforts to develop a strong savings account.
During the school year sophomore Lucille Herrold spends about five hours a week bussing tables at a Mexican restaurant in Downtown Overland Park.
“I typically save the checks that I make and spend my tip money,” Herrold said. “I need the money in my savings to buy a car, pay for
SPENCER’S 3D THINGS
Prices:
Hex Fidget - $20
Pillar Cube Fidget - $10
Gear Fidget - $15
Egg Fidget - $10
ILLUSTRATIONS | CODY ISRAEL
ILLUSTRATIONS | CODY ISRAEL
the college classes I’m taking and my future college tuition.”
Although Herrold finds it crucial to save, she admits spending a little money once in a while keeps her from burning out.
“The main things I spend my money on are food and activities I do during time with my friends and family,” Herrold said. “I think it’s important to treat yourself from time to time, as all work and no rest can be unhealthy.”
However, having a job isn’t a priority for all students. Senior Emily Lueckenotto opts to focus on her school work and take advantage of the less stressful time before she has to enter the workforce. Even though Lueckenotto has more free time, she admits that the lack of spending money can be frustrating.
“I rarely spend money on food because I never have cash, and when I do I usually use gift cards or my birthday money,” Lueckenotto said. “Even though I have a credit card, I’m not allowed to use it unless it is for gas, an emergency, or I have special permission.”
Lueckenotto credits not working for the last four years as a key factor in developing a consistent schedule, leading to academic success. She claims an organized, low-stress life is worth not having the extra money.
“I have a lot more free time than my friends who work,” Lueckenotto said. “I don’t have to worry about losing my job. I can focus more on my grades and hang out with my friends. People with jobs often have an inconsistent schedule depending on where they work and I am thankful I don’t have to deal with that.”
As students prepare themselves to enter economic adulthood, personal finance teacher Lori Dowd strives to make the transition as easy as possible, incorporating real-world life skills into her curriculum.
Starting this year personal finance will be required for the class of 2028 and beyond. Dowd has been championing this change since she started teaching at Miege, as this is a mandatory class in most other states.
“We’re starting with their grocery list, making up a menu and seeing how much of
PAYING ATTENTION TO DETAIL
Senior Nolan Ward started his own car detailing business.
“I have learned a lot about how to interact with people in a more professional manner,” Ward said. “And how to market e ectively in order to practice my craft.”
I COURTESY PHOTOS
what they’re used to eating actually costs,” Dowd said. “We’ve gone through unit pricing for shopping, and we’ll do checkbook saving, credit all of that good stu . It’s pretty much all you need to know for adulting in the finance world.”
According to Dowd, it is crucial for students to learn how to be fiscally responsible in high school in order to be ready for the future. By teaching about economics, budgeting, paychecks, taxes and the di erent types of spending, students will leave her class with a broader knowledge of how systems work. Even starting small, Dowd advises, can get teens in the practice for what they will have to do on a broader scale later in life.
“Be aware of where you’re spending your money, because most of you don’t have bills every month so you spend money on wants, not needs,” Dowd said. “Trying to save a little bit, even $5 a week would be nice to put away so by the end of the year, you’ve got a nice little sum.”
Meet the Teachers
MS. WEBER
Before becoming a faculty member, Weber was a wedding planner and part-time volleyball coach at Miege.
“My whole family went here, and Mrs. Weber is my aunt, so it’s kind of a family a air.” Weber said. “I just love the community, and being back has been really nice.”
MR. BAGLEY
Before coming to Miege, Bagley was the Director of Facilities at another local business.
“The opportunity to work for a Catholic school and do maintenance was very appealing,” Bagley said. “I like going to daily Mass a little more consistently and being able to practice my Catholic faith more openly at work.”
MS. GRAY
Prior to Miege, Gray taught Spanish at Ottawa High School.
“I have three nephews who graduated from here (Miege),” Gray said. “I absolutely love the support that I feel, and the welcoming atmosphere from my colleagues and from administration.”
MR. THOMAS
Previous employment includes working as a graphic designer and corporate communicator for 25 years. For the past year and half, Thomas taught technology at Holy Trinity Catholic School in Lenexa, KS.
“God called me to work with youth to help them develop their abilities, wherever that would be,” Thomas said. “My goal, when I decided to become a teacher, was to become a high school journalism teacher, and through the grace of God, a year and a half later, here I am.”
CMT Challenge
BY CLARE HANSEN STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Opening up the school’s Instagram page and clicking on the newest reel, assistant campus minister Kayla Moylan’s face appear. She is preaching good deeds and o ering faith-building challenges to help students connect.
CMT, or Campus Ministry Team, Weekly Challenges began on Aug. 20 when Moylan became a member of the CMT. She joins Bill Creach, Deborah Schraeder and Father Mersmann.
“I really had it on my heart to do more here, reach more students and specifically pray with more students,” Moylan said. “I was hoping being in CMT would give me more opportunities for that.”
Moylan expressed knowing that social media can have positive and negative impacts on people. Her goal is to counteract negativity by encouraging students to connect with each other and be present.
“I think phones and social media have honestly increased our isolation, self-criticism, and anxiety as a culture,” Moylan said. “We were made for the relationship that is in front of us; the beautiful human that is sitting right across from you.”
Moylan strives to use her new position to influence students for the better on her social media ministry. Her first challenge was encouraging everyone to come to a daily mass, influencing many
students with the first post.
“By the end of the week, we had 60 kids come to a daily mass, so just from that alone, I thought, ‘Okay, this is something,’” Moylan said. “We need to keep doing this.”
Moylan plans to continue “CMT Weekly Challenges” throughout the year, challenging and encouraging students to be vulnerable and reach out to others.
“I just think our world is so full of things on social media, things out in the world, things on TV that are just not great for our souls,” said Moylan. “If we can put a little bit of kindness, a little bit of holiness, a little bit of God in these di erent places, I just feel like we will be raised up and feel better about ourselves as a whole.”
ALL SMILES
Kayla Moylan spends her time as Assistant Campus Minister developing new traditions like CMT Weekly Challenges. “I thought the weekly challenges would be a fun thing to start doing to try and encourage students to step outside their comfort zone,” Moylan said. “I have lots of ideas, but I’m also open to new ideas from students.” I COURTESY PHOTO
“Take a selfie with someone who is holy and tell us about it using #CMTCHALLENGE”
HEALTH IN MIND
Mental health decline in students prompts solutions
BY ELAINA GIBSON AND BELLA DESSERT
With the stress of juggling homework, extracurriculars, jobs and a social life, anxiety and depression rates rise among teens while mental health awareness advocacy increases throughout the school.
According to Compass Health Center, 50% of all lifetime mental illnesses begin at age 14, while one in seven teenagers will experience a mental disorder in their life. School-sponsored organizations and events such as Fully Alive, Impact Day talks and Mental Health Awareness Club provide resources to support students.
Social-emotional counselor Katie Stilwell was hired last year
to be a resource for students in times of need. On Mondays in her office, she creates a safe environment for anyone who needs to talk without the added fear of judgment.
“I think for some, it can be scary to ask for help,” Stilwell said. “Many students tell me they don’t want to ‘burden’ their friends or family with their struggles, so they try to manage it all on their own, which can be very isolating. Many teens also experience loneliness associated with feeling misunderstood, left out or friendless.”
Along with Stilwell, senior herd captains help organize the program, Fully Alive, which carries a mission to yield opportunities to teach
and provide information on mental wellness. Each month, herd captains lead their faith families in designated activities surrounding the ‘Fully Alive’ message such as creating antibullying posters and listening to professional speakers.
On Sept. 13, licensed therapist Samantha Trujillo, who was brought in through counselor Dan Meara, spoke about mental health work and its importance among teens and students.
“I chose to come and speak because I am passionate about mental health and wish to reduce the stigma around it, especially in the Hispanic community,” Trujillo said. “I struggled in high school myself and wished someone would have come and normalized what
CONNECTING THROUGH DISCUSSION
Sophomore Mila Juarez attends Mental Health Club during Flex Time. “I first saw a poster about the club in the hallway, and my friends and I began going to it,” Juarez said. “It’s a fun experience, and a safe place to talk about a lot of stuff that you don’t usually talk to your friends about.” I EVAN ULMER
STRESSORS BROKEN DOWN
What occupies your mind?
According to a recent survey of 143 students these subjects were the main causes of stress.
I was going through.”
Senior Lucy McArthur says vulnerability is a big factor that holds teens back from opening up about their mental health, alluding to how the pressure of fitting in and being liked takes precedence over how a person is actually feeling.
“I know that I have sometimes felt too scared to speak up about my mental health,” McArthur said. “It’s a really sensitive thing to talk about, but I think the more you talk about it, the less likely you are to struggle.”
“
Stilwell agrees that verbally expressing both good and
Awareness months are a great time to bring mental health and wellness into conversations within our community.
Katie Stilwell
In a recent survey of 143 students, 99.3% said that mental health awareness should be a topic of conversation in school.
bad feelings can help teens cope, overcome them and gain resolution.
“Awareness months are a
great time to bring mental health and wellness into conversations within our community,” Stilwell said. “We want students to know that struggles are a part of life, but we can learn to know ourselves better and what works when those challenges become more difficult.”
“
Bringing in outside speakers is not just for show according to Dean of Students Alex Keith. Passing on the Faith, hiring professionals who care about the well-being of teens and holding fast to the things that have helped people
Continued on pg. 16
in the past, go towards the goal of investing in the most important thing: the students.
“Miege always will keep spiritual things paramount as it is the reason for our school,” Keith said. “Any chance for our students to encounter the Lord is good for the overall wellbeing of students and staff alike.”
Junior Sophia Nguyen says teens who push themselves hard to overachieve can often find it difficult to consistently maintain the same level of emotional strength.
“It’s been a roller coaster of ups and downs for everyone,” Nguyen said. “While finding a community and many friends has made me feel so welcome and happy, I still struggle with burnout and anxiety during the school year. I have always been someone who pushes myself to do well in school and do my best, but being forced to meet deadline after deadline can feel like an endless cycle of stress.”
According to Mental Health
America, over 60% of teens with serious cases of depression do not receive any treatment. Nguyen and senior Abby Cleveland believe the school’s
This community and school has made it easier for me to find help when I need it. “ “ Senior Abby Cleveland
staff has does a good job accommodating students when they are battling personal dilemmas.
“I struggle a lot with asking for help, but this community and school has made it easier for me to find help when I need it,” Cleveland said. “This improves my mental health as I
always know there is someone to be there for me when I need to unpack what is going on in my life.”
Director of campus ministry Bill Creach emphasizes the importance of leaning on others in times of darkness even though it may be difficult.
“People don’t want to be needy,” Creach said. “They are embarrassed that they have problems, don’t want to burden their friends and family with things or they don’t want to confront what they are struggling with in their lives. Yet when we discover someone we love is keeping a problem from us, we lecture them on why they can come to us anytime about anything. Having outlets for sharing their pain, fear, struggles and losses. It is important to reach out when you are hurting and to know that you are not the only one who is struggling with things in your life.”
99.3% of students agree that mental health awareness should be promoted
According to a recent survey of 143 Miege students
JOIN MENTAL HEALTH CLUB
MEETINGS DURING FLEX TIME IN MS. DOWD’S ROOM 135
How does school’s workload a ect student’s mental health?
U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year 1 in 6
92% of teens reported extended use of screens 31.9% of teens are estimated to have an anxiety disorder 20% of teens will experience depression by the age of 17
Praise and Worship
New Mass music increases participation
BY BEBE PREU STAFF WRITER
The air buzzes with anticipation at the fi rst allschool Mass of the year. The familiar notes of the guitar strings invite students to participate in a new way of Mass; a lively celebration accompanied by praise and worship music. For many, this shift from traditional choral music to contemporary worship marks a transformation in how the school engages students in their faith.
Sophia Nguyen, a junior choir member, sat among her peers consumed by a mix of nerves and excitement before she led the chorus.
“As a student, I feel like not a lot of people sing along because it can be
awkward and make you feel singled out if you’re the only one singing,” Nguyen said.
After over 25 years of the liturgical choir leading Mass, the administration recently made the choice to introduce a new style, praise and worship music, and move on from the traditional ways of Mass. This change aims to encourage student involvement during Mass, hopefully curating a more spiritually interactive environment.
Bishop Miege President Phil Baniewicz thought many students seemed content with sitting back and not participating in the music at Mass. Baniewicz also shared that a time for change was agreed upon by other faculty.
“I wanted more students to sing, and the worship music heard at teen retreats and Masses are more relatable to teens,” Baniewicz said. “Mass is not a spectator sport; people are called to engage themselves in the Mass, and singing is one of the easiest ways to do that.”
The introduction to this new era has received a warm welcome from many students, including senior choir member Emma Masters who helped lead in the first praise and worship Mass.
SINGING IN SPIRIT
“I think worship music takes people to a di erent place spiritually and allows them to connect with Jesus in a way they haven’t been able to before,” Masters said. “I love getting to see all the other students start to really open up during worship by singing along or lifting their hands.”
Singing along o ers an opportunity for student collaboration in the Mass with the worship leader Wade McNutt, a professional praise and worship singer brought into the community to guide Masses. Masters was the fi rst student to take advantage of this opportunity as she expressed that she often sings worship songs during her youth group outside of school.
“This was more relaxing than other choir performances, just because I’ve sung worship music more than chorally arranged music,” Masters said.
However, the switch also holds back seniors who hoped to lead in traditional choral music at school Mass. In past years, choir leaders from the senior class guided the congregation through Mass themselves, fostering a sense of community leadership and responsibility amongst the class.
“The senior choir students who do lead Mass really want to be there and it inspires others to sing,” choir director Robin Christie said.
Overall, students fi nd this change to be positive and helpful in participation. Baniewicz stated that this style of music will continue to be a prominent part of Mass.
“Seeing more students singing and responding to the priest is our end goal, and I think we’re already seeing that with this new choice of music,” Baniewicz said.
Senior Emma Masters sings in the choir alongside Wade McNutt at all-school Mass. “I love singing at Mass and I feel like it helps me grow closer and connect with God,” Masters said. “I know that God connects with people in many di erent ways, and I know he speaks to me the most through music.” I CLARE HANSEN
Finding Home Away From Home International students adjust to life in Kansas
BY MC DUNN
WEB EIC
Transitioning from summer days in the sun to going back-toschool tends to be a challenge for many students. However, the task of returning to school in a whole new continent is not one that many experience. One particular student’s world was turned upside down when returning to school meant on the other side of the globe.
Sophomore Bao Le is a native of Vietnam who decided to come to the United States this past July anticipating the experience of an American education. He shared how many features of typical Kansas di ered from his hometown, such as the weather and urban benefi ts.
“It is very convenient here that you don’t need to go far away to find a store,” Le said. “In Vietnam, they don’t really have that. The weather is also mediocre, but here it is too hot to concentrate. The
environment is also cleaner than I expected.”
One aspect of the school that has stuck out for Le is the opportunities presented in the engineering program. He has taken a particular interest in the maker space perks that his class provides.
“I am still trying to adapt, but I have found a lot of new things for me to explore and study,” Le said. “I really like that in engineering they let me create something new and interesting. They (Vietnam school) kind of had that, but it was pretty boring. The teachers also help you a lot and have helped me to adapt.”
Le resides with his uncle while staying in the States rather than with a host family. As an international student, he is required to attend a private school. After high school, he intends to attend an American university to pursue a career as a doctor.
According to Le, his primary challenge over the past three months has been communication. He had just begun speaking English when he arrived, which a ected his navigation around the school.
“I came here alone, so it’s pretty hard and I always need to ask a lot of people what I need to do next,” Le said. “If I don’t ask someone I will probably be late (to class). Saying the right things is hard too.”
The school has fostered other international students through foreign exchange programs in the past, including senior Ella Liu. Liu enrolled in her freshman year for similar pursuits as Lu, in which communication has impacted her education for all four years.
When asked about how English played a role in Liu’s life, she explains that it is still an ongoing journey that did not come naturally to her.
“I feel like I am still constantly struggling with it,” Liu said. “I always felt like I couldn’t really talk and I couldn’t read, and I still need the translator to read and do my homework. I will say, though, that it has gotten a lot better since freshman year.”
For most classes, Liu uses a translator to understand unknown words or phrases from di erent passages. Teachers such as English teacher Janie Woods have made e orts to adjust work based on Liu’s English comprehension.
“I remember, at least for freshman year English class, I couldn’t really read the passage or do any grammar practices,” Liu said. “Mrs. Woods told me to not worry about how correct my sentences were, which was very helpful.”
Being a part of a foreign exchange program admits students into di erent cultural exchanges and is intended to broaden their horizon of opportunities in the future by paving the way for personal international relations. The families of Le and Liu recognize the abundance that these high school connections could bring for the future, leading them to pursue the program.
“By coming to the United States it will help me get a job here after high school,” Liu said. “Subjects and school go on a lot longer and are very challenging in China. I am really happy to be experiencing the States and the opportunities and new classes that I have taken, even if coming over was scary.”
PERSPECTIVES stag
1. LIVING IT UP
Freshman Brooklyn Masters dances during the ‘80s Mixer on Aug. 16. “I thought the mixer was really fun, and I had a very exciting time with my friends,” Masters said. “I loved meeting new people and the atmosphere of the gym that night, and when they played ‘Sweet Caroline’ at the end, which was really fun.”
I EVAN ULMER
2. MODELING SPORTSMANSHIP
Filled with enthusiasm during a close game, senior Caroline Findley cheers on the Millie Herd as they play Bohaty in a kickball competition on Sept. 12. “I really love participating in herd competitions because it helps with getting to know people at school I normally wouldn’t talk to,” Findley said. “I have participated since freshman year and I feel like I know everyone in my herd really well.” I EVAN ULMER
3. CRAFTING FOR A CAUSE
Diligently working for Walk’n and Roll’n, a group making a Halloween wheelchair costume for a client, sophomore Catalina Hurtado volunteers her time in the Project Studio. “I used the hot wire foam cutter to make sure it looked exactly how they wanted it to look, and I was able to craft it a certain way,” Hurtado said. “I feel like it’s a nice opportunity that I get to help out someone who really needs it.” I EVAN ULMER
4. RECEIVING WITH REVERENCE
Senior Julia McCaffree receives the Eucharist from Archbishop Naumann during the first allschool Mass of the year on Aug. 28. “I like how Mass gives me time to be with God and I don’t have to worry about anything else,” McCaffree said. “I feel at peace when I receive the Eucharist, and I enjoy the time I get to spend alone with God through Communion.”
I CLARE HANSEN
1.
2.
3.
4.
5. SINGING WITH SPIRIT
Senior transfer student Abigail Mudd and the choir lead the crowd in the national anthem before the first home football game of the year against St. James on Sept. 6. “I like choir because I love to sing and it is easy for me; everyone in choir really vibes together,” Mudd said. “Singing at the football games is fun because my last school didn’t have a football team, so I’m glad I get to experience the school spirit at Miege and see how everyone dresses up at the games as a senior.” I EVAN ULMER
6.
BEAMING BRIGHTLY
With a grin on her face, senior Franny Chaffee-McClure performs the homecoming routine with the dance team during the pep assembly. “I love dancing because of the feeling you get when you’re on the court and nothing else matters,” Chaffee-McClure said. “You get to do what you love.” I CLARE HANSEN
7.
BUILDING A MASTERPIECE
Senior Jack Engle spends his Flex Time working on a class project. “I enjoy the Engineering Lab and prefer active learning over lecturing,” Engle said. “Doing stuff hands-on is what I enjoy, which is why I like civil engineering and architecture class.” I EVAN ULMER
8. SKITS FOR SPIRIT
Senior Zeke Harris screams as he is dragged out of the gym during the homecoming pep assembly while playing ‘Johnny Saint’, a hated student associated with Aquinas. “The whole point of the skit is to get the school hyped up for the upcoming game,” Harris said. “I hope it made them excited. It sure seemed like the student section was a lot louder that night.” I CLARE HANSEN
Building Grit
New facility renovations fulfilled this summer
BY MC DUNN WEB EIC
After sweaty morning workouts in the sun, athletes fill the weights room to work on building endurance for the demanding outdoor training. Inside, teens sprint down a newly added turf course and pass a freshly painted mural. Peering into the workout room, pounds of metal plates burden football junior Devyn Davis’ back as he lifts M-tailored weights, a recent staple of the summer weight room renovation project.
The wall mural, turf hallway, and weights are pieces to bigger aspirations that president Phil Baniweicz has to enhance the school’s public perception.
“Bishop Miege has such a great reputation around excellence and championships, but then if you walk into some of our things, like the locker rooms for instance, they don’t look very championship level,” Baniweicz said. “They were in need of some upgrades.”
All athletes and students in fitness classes get the chance to utilize the additions. As one of the linemen for the football team, Davis has taken
advantage of the equipment by building strength with preferred rubber plates.
“I have enjoyed the new weights most of all because I love metal plates and all, but I just have a better lifting experience with rubber plates,” Davis said. “It’s easier to handle and I have a better grip on them.”
Davis prioritizes muscle building for his position, but football players can also work on their individual positionbased training with the synthetic turf built into the hallway this summer. The stretched-out lines provide space to do yard dashes and weighted sled pulling without the implication of hot temperatures or rainy days getting in the way.
“It was definitely necessary to add the turf so that we can work on just getting o the ball with a good push against other defenses,” Davis said. “We are trying to break the line of scrimmage, and then speed-wise for our skills, it helps the guys’ quads and hammies when they train with better force, regardless of the weather.”
Another area of the fitness renovations falls under visual aesthetics with the intentional wall mural right outside of the locker rooms.
Football senior captain Finn Cusick took time to acknowledge the Miege alumni pictured.
“I feel like sometimes people just focus on the big stu instead of big people, like the ones on the wall,” Cusick said. “All of the guys painted are considered some of the all-time greats, and they show how far Miege can take you further in life.”
FAB FIVE
The four athletes featured include former MLB star, Minnesota NFL prospect Danny Jackson, Stanford NBA prospect Spencer Jones and Notre Dame player Carter Putz. Featured above these players is coach Dave Doeren, who has Miege alumni connections and is going on his 13th season of coaching.
According to Baniewicz, building onto both interior and exterior facilities is intended to persuade Miege prospects.
“When people drive past our school or go to one of our facilities, I want them to go, ‘Wow, this is a great place,’” Baniewicz said. “If you walk into our gym right now, you walk in and think we need to have that all over the place. So there are multiple things I want to do overtime to have the entire school have that feeling.”
Improvement recommendations filter from sta and coach requests that then get discussed by the Board of Trustees. Baniewicz prides himself in orchestrating these wants with granted funding and turning them into reality.
“What I’m all about is that it doesn’t matter how good we are right now,” Baniewicz said. “Can we take another step forward, can we get better? If so, I’ll always keep pushing for the future.”
The new mural in the boys’ locker room features a quote from former football coach Dave Doeren about the legacy of the team over the years.
Alumni Jim Colbert, Carter Putz, Spencer Jones and Daniel Jackson are also featured in the mural. I NORAH MURTHA
sports HIGHLIGHTS
POMS UP
Senior Josephine Dorsett celebrates during the Rockhurst game with the girls who participated in the Little Stags Cheer and Dance Clinic. “There were about 100 girls this year so it was kind of stressful, but it’s always fun to let the little girls experience cheering with us,” Dorsett said. I EVAN ULMER
WORKING TOGETHER
Senior Lauren Lopez celebrates with the volleyball team after Trinniti Stevens gets a block. “Trinniti is definitely one of the main components in our front row, and when she gets a block it brings everybody up,” Lopez said. “Whether we mess up or we score, somebody always has something positive to say.”
I NORAH MURTHA
FEELING THE PRESSURE
Junior Luke Olson listens to coach feedback during the home football game against Rockhurst on Sept. 27. “I wanted to win and the score was very close, but I feel like that was the best game I played all year,” Olson said. “I love being a part of the football team because of the bond I get with the other guys and Coach Holmes.” I EVAN ULMER
FIGHTING FOR THE BALL Senior Will Grams fights for the ball against a player from Blue Valley. “There’s a lot of energy in our soccer team, and I really love Coach Huppe,” Grams said. “I like playing center because I am able to assist in scoring, and I can help the team a lot in my position.” I CLARE HANSEN
SPOTLIGHT dance edition
SENIOR LUCY LISTON
“We have to rely on each other,” Liston said. “So we’ve been doing team bonding to help build community.”
PHOTOS | LIZA MARTINEZ
JUNIOR NORA BUTLER
“It can be really di cult sometimes but at the end of the day you have to work together,” Butler said.
PURSUING PICKLEBALL
New club gains popularity
BY BRIA SUTHERLIN ASSISTANT COPY EDITOR
Slamming a spike down on the court to win the match, senior Xadriel Schreiner Cintron recalls his favorite moment from the first ever pickleball club meeting.
Pickleball is a sport similar to tennis, badminton and ping pong, except the paddles and court are smaller. Due to pickleball gaining popularity through social media, more than 40 students joined the club. From senior citizens to high school students, people have discovered the new sport as time to be social and spend time with friends.
“Pickleball can be a very social sport, my friends and I collectively agree that it’s just fun to play with all of your friends at the end of the day,” senior Shea Coughlan said.
According to senior Garrett Fleenor, the creation of the pickleball club was sparked during last year’s tennis banquet. Fleenor, along with senior Aryanna Rodriguez, Zecheus Rodriguez, and the club’s faculty sponsor, Spanish teacher Ryan Geris discussed the feasibility of the club.
“We randomly played pickleball during our tennis banquet,” Fleenor said. “Geris and I both agreed we
wanted to play (pickleball) more often. I just think it’s a club to get more people involved, it’s enjoyable.”
READY TO WIN
Sophomore Gabriel Brooks plays pickleball during Flex Time. “I think pickleball club is really fun, and I heard about it through some of my friends,” Brooks said. “Pickleball club is really fun because it’s more of a physical club rather than an intellectual club.” I EVAN ULMER
Schreiner Cintron said the club had a large number of people who wanted to join the first meeting because of how popular the sport is among students and its accessibility to all ages.
Multiple people who also play outside of school including junior Antonio Hayes expressed how this club has helped him gain more skills. Geris refers to him as a founding father during pickleball because of the skills he brings to club meetings.
“I play with my girlfriend and her family a lot so I had originally known all the rules, and a lot of people hadn’t before,” Hayes said. “It makes me sort of a role model, and allows me to help others out.”
Juniors Nolan Frizzell and Ryan Hutchinson, who are partners during competition, have already formed a tradition when they win a point in a match. Every time they play together they celebrate by jumping in the air
while high-fiving their paddles midair, according to Hutchinson, this is how he thinks community is shown throughout the club, which is why he joined.
“Pickleball has always been fun and playing it at Miege makes it better because of the great community,” Hutchinson said. “Celebrating just makes the time even more enjoyable, especially when I win with my classmates.”
One of the newcomers to the club, junior Brady Smith, appreciates the club because of the competitive atmosphere and diversity.
“It was interesting to see how everyone competed well together, especially for the new club,” Smith said. “Everyone was ready to do their thing and it was fun to see all the di erent people that competed but came together at the same time.”
NEW BEGINNINGS
First girls’ field hockey team forms
BY BELLA DESSERT COPY EDITOR
Opening in the fall of 2024, Miege welcomed its newest club team, girls field hockey.
Organized through a collaboration with head coach Amy Johnston, female student-athletes at Miege, and the Kansas City Field Hockey organization, the club quickly gained attention and attracted several interested participants.
For the 2024-25 inaugural season, seniors dominated the roster for the sport made up of 11 players in total, 10 in the “field” and a goalkeeper. Teams use specialized sticks similar to that of ice hockey to move the ball
around the field and score goals.
“I chose to do field hockey because it’s my senior year and I wanted to try something new and be more involved,” senior Mia Hendrix said.
According to seniors Ellouise Sill and Ali Andrade, the range of ages between the girls has helped the upper and lower classmen to form bonds and build friendships.
Andrade and Sill expressed that some of their favorite team memories so far are dinner or ice cream with teammates after practices.
Although it is the school’s first field hockey team, the players have shared ambitions for the fall season.
“Some of my goals for this season is to push and support my teammates
through uplifting words and actions so that everyone ends up having fun and nobody gets down on themselves,” Sill said. “I also want to dedicate hard work and effort into winning our games.”
According to the team, the club is filled with positivity that comes from the motivational coaches and players. Hendrix and Andrade expressed how it has helped with their hand-eye coordination, handling their sticks and learning how to be aggressive in a contact sport.
Many of the team members have never played before. Coach Johnston, who is aware of this, does her best to support the team on and off the field, giving players like junior Caitlin Loehr, confidence in their new found abilities.
RUNNING TO SCORE
Senior Ellouise
at a field hockey game against Pembroke Hill. “Field hockey was great and I became really passionate about it, and our coaches are so enthusiastic and encouraging which has made practices and games even more fun,” Sill said. “I loved playing field hockey because I was able to be a part of such a remarkable team, and I made new memories with the new people I grew closer with.” I COURTESY PHOTO
“The coaches have been really helpful to all the new people who have never played before,” Loehr said. “We are still understanding how the game works, but improving quickly.”
Sill plays
UNDER THE LIGHTS Meaning behind the themes
BY BRIA SUTHERLIN ASSISTANT COPY EDITOR
Beaming neon yellow and orange construction vests fill the stands while fans bang on the stadium bleachers, the student section full of spirit as the football team plays against longtime rival Saint James Academy.
The game against St. James Academy follows the traditional construction theme referencing the school’s nonexistent stadium. According to senior Finnegan Madden, recurrent themes from throughout the years increase spirit in the student section.
“The themes allow me to associate myself with the spirit I have always loved showing during games,” Madden said. “Being a senior gives me so many more opportunities to show spirit in the student section and lead others as well.”
Madden said that the themes are key to attracting students to games and inspiring them to live up to the enthusiasm that the football team needs.
GETTING LOUD
Cheering on the football team, senior Carter Stevens enjoys his new role as one of the leaders of the student section. “It’s di erent as a senior, because you’re having to lead the student section and start chants instead of following them,” Stevens said. “I enjoy going to the football games because of the spirit Miege has with dressing up in themes and cheering everyone on.” I EVAN ULMER
something fun to be a part of, and people get so creative with it which makes it better.”
“The themes always bring the students together,” Madden said. “It’s always
Throughout the course of this year, the team hosted four home games. As one of the biggest rivalry games of the season, the ‘Doll House’, as students refer to the stadium, hosted Rockhurst with the theme Red, White and “Beat” Rock. Senior Lauren Lopez said she was extra excited for this particular game.
“My favorite theme is the USA, everyone is participating this year. If they come they are always in theme,” Lopez said. “I also help paint the boys’ chests, which always looks super good.”
Themes for the year involving the student section include Blackout, Red White and “Beat” Rock, Hawaiian, Western Out, Pink Out and Team Jerseys. According to junior player Devyn Davis, this excitement around the themes means a lot to the players and livelihood of students.
“I think that themes add a lot to the game and environment,” Davis said. “We are very much a team that needs energy to play, so with the spirit of everybody in the student section, it helps us perform better, which means a lot to our team and school.”
IN ON THE ACTION
Senior Abigail Cleveland enjoys sitting in the student section at football games as a senior. “It’s always super exciting to be there with all of my friends close up to the front where all the energy is,” Cleveland said. “I love supporting the team and it’s a time where all of the seniors come together and get hyped.”
I EVAN ULMER
DESIGN | JACK GELHAUS
STRIDES OF SUCCESS Cross country team takes on season
MIEGIAN EDITORS STAFF FEATURE
Brightly colored tennis shoes hit the pavement as the cross country team kicked o the fall season. With returning medalists from the 2023-2024 state competition, the team features state participants: senior Ella Aquino who placed 9th overall last season, sophomore Gri n Bloemker who placed 13th and senior Carson Lemon who placed 28th.
Welcoming new team members and preparing veterans, the team’s first meet of the season took place at the St. Michael the Archangel invitational on Sept. 7. The team will compete throughout the next month, closing with EKL regionals in midOctober.
“
According to returning senior Blythe Harris, the team has become a family that is supportive by developing personal and cooperative growth. With both mental and physical strains, cross country di ers from other schooloriented sports as it combines longevity, distance, speed and endurance.
“I have always been good at other sports, always been pretty athletic, but in every sport, my main talent was running and being fast,” Aquino said. “That’s what really pushed me to start doing this as a main sport.”
We are a team that lifts others up over every hill, around every mile, and through every finish line. “
Senior Ella Aquino
“It helps me better myself for track season and to have more fun in my senior year,” Harris says. “It’s really positive. It’s uplifting. Everyone’s encouraging each other when we run.”
FIERCELY RUNNING
Senior Ella Aquino leads the team in the first cross country meet of the season. “The spirit is so great on the team and everyone is there for each other,” Aquino said.
“Having a successful first meet really set the stage for the season.”
I PHOTO CREDITS
Senior Carson Lemon says cross country is a less popular sport due to its di culty.
“It’s not necessarily the most fun sport, it takes e ort,” Lemon said. “Cross country is an opportunity to commit to things that are not always
Similarly, Lemon expressed how the sport has influenced his work ethic, team building and ability to take charge as a senior.
“It’s a very team driven sport, despite it being pretty individual in the competition,” Lemon said. “Although
individual objectives. Some aim to get toned and in shape while others focus on their future athletic goals like getting mileage for track. Even with the focus being on physical improvement, they are still able to meet the unified goal of being a supportive, close-knit team.
“We are a team that lifts each other up over every hill, around every mile, and through every finish line,” Aquino said.
STRUTTING ALONG
Senior Amelia Bridges enjoys walking the track. “Stag Strut was good this year because the seniors were more involved in planning,” Bridges said. “It’s more special because you finally realize it’s your senior year, and it all hits you at once.” I NORAH MURTHA
HAVING A BLAST
Junior Lucien Slater rides on sophomore James Eckrich’s back during their final laps.
“I think the day went amazing,” Slater said. “There were lots of good vibes and energy: everything from the food, to walking around, to praying.” I NORAH MURTHA
STRUTTIN’ STAGS
DANCING IN THE CROWD
Senior Joseph Schmidt dresses up as Spider Man as he enjoys his last Stag Strut. “It felt like we were starting to embrace the spirit of Homecoming as it got closer,” Schmidt said. “This is just another example of the Miege community coming together to dance and celebrate.”
I NORAH MURTHA
DUNKING WITH DETERMINATION
Sophomore Devante Lee slams the ball into the net during Stag Strut on Sept. 20. “Stag Strut was really good this year,” Lee said. “I loved dunking on people while on the field.” I NORAH MURTHA
FLYING THROUGH THE SKY
Senior Emma Masters performs a toe touch jump with her friends at Stag Strut. “I think when you’re a senior, you stop trying to prove something or impress anybody,” Masters said. “You start allowing yourself to be yourself around everybody, and I think it cultivates a lot of culture.”
I LIZA MARTINEZ
DYNAMIC DUO
Seniors Olivia Lopez and Madeline Nelson dress up as Nicki Minaj and Justin Bieber. “We chose our costumes because we thought it was an iconic duo,” Lopez said. “It was super enjoyable for everyone because we got a lot of laughs, and I really loved performing their song, ‘Beauty and A Beat’, in front of everyone.”
I CLARE HANSEN
