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Issue 3 Volume 13 Dec. 15 , 2017 Hagerty High School Oviedo, Florida.
BOYS SOCCER OFF TO HOT START The boys soccer team is currently 6-1 and expecting a postseason appearence. page 8 Michael Lynch, 12
Robotics gets in gear Sarah Dreyer
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Staff Reporter hanging out steel for aluminum, desinging a folding elevator, reworking the robot claw? The three teams that make up Robotics Club put in big hours and perform tasks that would make most people sweat just to hear them. Two of the teams, Metal Morphosis and Mechromancers, are For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology teams and one, Cyber Shock, is a VEX team. All teams are challenged each season with a new game. They must design, build and program their robots to complete tasks autonomously and drivercontrolled matches played in a 12x12 field. The teams also document their build season through an Engineering Notebook. Team members contribute their experiences, the tasks, goals, and objectives achieved at each meeting as well as include pictures, diagrams, computer-aided designs of their robots, mechanisms, plus fundraising and outreach efforts. It is not just what happens inside the competition field, but what happens outside of the field that weighs more in determining a winning team. FIRST Tech Challenge teams Metal Morphosis and Mechromancers faced 16 robotics teams on Nov. 11 at Oviedo High. While both teams’ robots were capable of scoring points, neither was able to complete all the autonomous tasks. The teams placed 7th and 5th respectively. Both teams will compete on Dec. 9 at Viera High School and hope to
improve their league rankings. “We’re going to do alright,” said Nicholas Injo, a team member of Mechromancers and chief engineer for the program. “We’re going to get by, but we need to work on the software so we can program the robot to do tasks and earn us a lot of points.” Haven Carter, team leader for the Mechromancers, says the team plans to make improvements to their robot. They will keep the design the same but improve the mechanisms. The Metal Morphosis team also plans to make changes to their robot for improved performance. Senior Edgar Madruga is the team leader for their team. One major change they have already implemented was decreasing the weight of the folding elevator on their robot. Based on what happened at the last competition, they believe this will help the robot maneuver better on the playing field. “In one match, we accidentally selected the wrong program and it crashed into the wall, breaking a linear bearing and destroying the robot,” Madruga said. “We’re hoping these changes will reduce the likelihood of damage coming to the robot.” The school has a new VEX Robotics team, 97052A, known as Cyber Shock. This team is only two years old and still learning. They competed on Nov. 18 in Tampa. “We didn’t do as well as we could have done,” said Katie Guise, team leader for Cyber Shock. “Our claw, the main mechanism on our robot, had some problems. We are working on fixing it so that we can do better at the next competition.” They realized that their robot was
very heavy due its steel parts, which slowed the robot down in the field. The team decided to replace the steel parts with aluminum and change four of the wheels to Omni wheels to make it easier to turn. This will also help the robot move faster and score more points. The team will compete at Lake Minneola High School on Dec. 16. Team Engineering Notebook Leaders, Aashni Patel, Austin English and Sharika Khondaker ensure each meeting date has proper documentation. They assign every member different days for notebook entries and proof them for quality. Each team hopes to have their notebooks completed prior to the league championship. Quality and detailed notebooks play an instrumental role in a team’s success. Besides competitions and outreach activities, the teams have opportunities to grow professionally and network with industry leaders. Recently, a few members from all three teams attended the Student Tour Day at the Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference at the Orange County Convention Center. Major companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, NASA and Raytheon highlight the latest technology tools in modeling, simulation and training. Robotics members networked with the leaders of companies, learned about new technology and software, and interacted with potential employers. “We pick something out from the convention and see if we can incorporate it in our robot designs,” Madruga said. Retired teacher Stefan Ibarguen remains a constant in the program. He taught AP Computer Science and
MAN VS. MACHINE Senior Edgar Madruga and sophomore Neel Maity adjust their robot for the next competition. photo by Sarah Dreyer
Robotics for three years. Prior to teaching, he was a software engineer with Symantec. “I’m absolutely proud of these students. Everyone does what they can,” stated Ibarguen. Don Harper, director of the Innovation Lab at UCF, is also a steady mentor for the program. Harper has extensive knowledge and experience with robotics, software, design and multiple technology tools he shares with the teams. Media specialist Po Dickison continues to sponsor the club
and oversees all three teams. Robotics is a time consuming activity. The team meets twice a week at school but they also meet at UCF multiple days during the week and on the weekends. Currently, Metal Morphosis is ranked 10th while Mechromancers is ranked third in the Space Coast League, which includes teams from Seminole and Brevard counties. Both teams will compete against 20 teams on Jan. 13 at the league championship, hosted by the Robotics program.
Band finishes Fantastic first semester See more on Tara Routie
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he Rhapsody concert, Music Performance Assessment, marching season, big trip to Washington D.C. With the first semester coming to an end, it has been a busy season for
band. The band kicked off the year at summer camp to prepare their annual marching show Fantastic Beasts in order to perform for halftime during football games, as well as perform the show at the Seminole County Marching Festival. In addition, the band performed at MPA in October, which is their biggest rated performance that takes place in front of judges, and they receive a rating for their marching show. They took home straight Superiors, which is the highest rating possible. “It’s been a great season so far,” senior Bijan Teimouri said.
PICTURE PERFECT Sophomore Lizette Barraza Miranda plays tuba during the homecoming parade. From a D.C. trip to halftime shows to straight MPA superiors, band had a full first semester. photo by Bridgette Hahn
Band also takes part in All-county and All-state. These two events are honor bands that students can audition for every year. While All-county is available for students in Seminole County, All-state is available for all band students in Florida, making the latter more difficult to join. Senior Molly Kaplan made both All-County and All-State and is “very proud” to be first chair in both. Band teaches and strengthens students’ music skills. Nonetheless, band can teach an individual about determination, time management, organization and how to make new friends. “[Band] introduced me to so many people that I call some of my best friends,” senior Lindsay Lee said. Even with their numerous activities going on, the band put on a concert too. They performed their annual Rhapsody in Blue concert on Friday, Dec. 1. The concert featured all of the band sections, as well as the two jazz bands, symphonic band, and wind ensemble. In addition, both Kaplan and senior Julia Kemper, along with junior Abi Duncan are drum majors this year, which requires them to work even harder in order for the rest of the band to succeed. “We spend a lot of time memorizing music and perfecting it and matching each other,” Kemper said. Adding to their hectic schedule, the group recently took a trip to Washington D.C. during Thanksgiving break to perform in the Montgomery Thanksgiving parade in Maryland. They took a charter bus, and although a 12 hour bus ride sounds miserable to some, sophomore Morgan Muse enjoyed the ride. “The bus ride was pretty fun considering the fact that we were with our friends,” sophomore Morgan Muse said. While waiting to perform, the band spent an extra few days touring the city’s historical sites. Some popular sites they toured in D.C. include the Smithsonian Museum, the Kennedy Center and the Holocaust Memorial. They also attended a concert performed by the National Symphony Orchestra, where senior Lindsay Lee especially enjoyed the concert because it was a-once-in-a-lifetime experience that she could share with other music appreciators. “The concert left me speechless,” Lee said. The band made the trip memorable by visiting historic sites, but it was their tour guide that seems to stick to their memories. “He was incredibly funny and knew how to get the rest of the band really excited,” senior Lydia Kiernicki said. They are back from their trip now and although many events are over, the band is going full force into concert season, making time management crucial. “Managing band isn’t too bad as long as you don’t procrastinate,” Muse said.
HagertyJourn.com BOYS SOCCER DEFEATS OVIEDO IN PHYSICAL GAME The boys soccer team took down Oviedo 3-1 in a close, aggressive match on Wednesday, Dec. 6. Muhammad Ali scored one goal and Jordan Snoap scored twice for the sixth win of the season. PTSA, AMBASSADORS HOST ‘SIT WITH US’ To help those who need someone to sit with at lunch, PTSA and the student ambassadors have taken charge to promote a new “Sit with Us” app. They have already implemented the app and had their first lunch. More lunches are planned for 2018. COMIC CRITIC: A SUPER YEAR OF TV Ever since the dawn of the superhero renaissance in 2012, The CW, ABC, FOX and FX have drawn praise for their superhero programming. To see which ones the Comic Critic thinks are the best of the best, check out his column online.
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Raiders rise up
TERRIFIC TEAMWORK Participating in multiple events, the JROTC Raiders took home second place in the Rope Bridge construction event on Friday, Dec. 1. Other events they participated in include the Cross Country Rescue and the Raider Fitness challenge. At the top left corner, senior Skyler Zeegers pushes over a wooden table during one of the events. At the top right, some cadets carry rugsacks during the obstacle course. In the middle, a cadet low crawls, one of the components of the Raiders Fitness Challenge. At the bottom left corner, multiple cadets, including Zeegers, carry a beached canoe during the Raiders Fitness Challenge. At the bottom right corner, two cadets carry a stretcher during the Cross County Rescue. They are required to carry a stretcher to mimick real life rescues and injuries of soldiers who get hurt in combat. photos by Ian Dauber
Melissa Donovan
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Assistant Editor
urprised, on the verge of tears, over joyed: the JROTC Raiders were emotional when they heard the qualified for the state competition. “We have been practicing a lot, but we did not think that we could make it,” junior Nasir Roberts said. “We have a lot of new and unexperienced Raiders, so hearing we qualified was a shock.” Their success at the University High School’s Raider Challenge Invitational led them to the state Raiders competition at Camp Flaming Arrow near Lake Wales on Friday, Dec. 1 and Saturday, Dec. 2. At the competition, they placed second in tier three in Rope Bridge construction with a school record time of two minutes and 21 seconds. On Nov. 17-18, the team placed first in the 5K run and the Rope Bridge Construction. They also received second place in the Tire Flip, the Raider Fitness Challenge and the Cross Country Rescue simulation, sending them to states. “This is the farthest that the team has ever gone,” 1st Sgt. Jose Vasquez said. “We had the opportunity to go to states two years ago and it has been an adventure since then.” The team consists of 10 competitors and two alternates, all varying in grade and rank. In preparation for the competition, the team practiced each of the five events that they would have to perform at states: Rope Bridge Construction, Raider Fitness Challenge, CCR, 5K Run and Tire Flip. For each event, the team had to stay together since the rules required Raiders be a unified team. During the Rope Bridge Construction, the cadets must construct and cross a bridge, made out of rope and carabiners without touching the ground. The Raiders consider this one of the more challenging events that they must perform because of it involves the most teamwork. For the 5K run, they have to run three miles and they must stay together the whole run. “We are only as fast as our slowest runner,” Master Sgt. Jared Strickle said. In the CCR, the team must carry a 120 pound stretcher and 30 pound rucksacks (backpacks) around a mile obstacle course. This event acts as simulation for a real life rescue of an injured soldier who needs medical assistance. The event filled with multiple components, the Raider Fitness Challenge, cadets must go
through a half mile obstacle course where they carry out tasks like low crawls, ammo can carries, over unders, rucksack carries, and carrying a beached canoe. A tactic that they follow is dividing the team in two so that they can more efficiently carry out the task. The Tire Flip event consists of the team splitting up into two groups of five where one group will first flip a 250-500 pound tire 50 meters, then the other half of the team will flip it back 50 meters to the initial point. In each event, the cadets face trials, mental and physical, from falling over to wanting to give
club corner
by Ahilyn Aguilar
KEY CLUB PREPARES FOR FOLLOWING SEMESTER In a partnership with the local Kiwanis Club, Key Club serves the community by volunteering with organizations such as the Seminole County Education and Restoration Projects, the Oviedo Parks and Recreation, United against Poverty and the Ronald McDonald house. Most members complete their Bright Future at the the Ronald McDonald house, an event where they volunteer twice a month to help kids and families in need. Next semester, Key Club plans on still volunteer alongside Coalition For the Homeless by making lunch bags for people in need around Central Florida, as well as volunteer with the Spring Special Olympics by helping with sport events for special needs kids. JUNIOR OPTIMIST CLUB SPREADS CHRISTMAS CHEER Starting their holiday festivities by volunteering at the Oviedo Winter Spring Chamber Parade as well as with the yearly Candy Cane Run on Dec. 9, the JOOI Club prepares to end the semester with volunteering events that bring special kids together to celebrate the upcoming holidays. On Dec. 15, the JOOI Club will be volunteering at the Riverside Park to host the monthly special needs kids dance. Since it is the last dance of the year, it is themed according to the holidays. The club will begin semester two by helping setting up and volunteering at the Car Show that will take place on Jan. 20 at the Oviedo Mall. The JOOI Club focuses on not only providing members with multiple community service hours for Bright Futures but also helping those in need. The club is still accepting members and meets every Thursday in sponsor Teresa Decio’s room, in 6-202. DEBATE TEAM PREPARES FOR HARVARD TOURNAMENT After the third tournament of the season, the Debate Team is gathering funds to prepare for a national tournament taking place at the University of Harvard in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Comprising the team that will be competing in the tournament over President’s Day weekend are seniors Hayden Welsh, Connor Dimatteo, Alex Reilly, Gabriel Perez-Pujols, Logan Harclerode, Amanda Heinzmann and Kristin Cline and juniors Sarah Gil, Alexis O’Brien and Valeria Portillo-Rivera. The team aims to host two fundraisers to assist in paying for the trip. In the meantime, the team has two local tournaments, one in mid-January, the other in mid-February.
up. Running in the CCR, junior Kleymer Revis had not tripped at all until the final 10 meters. “[Luckily] I was in front so I did not have to hold anyone up,” Revis said. Throughout all of the events they ensured to keep working like how they did in practice while focusing on their strengths and teamwork. “There were no specific struggles actually, though all the events are physically exhausting and require [large] amounts of effort on the part of the cadets,” Battalion Commander Carson George said. Between each event there is an hour break to
relax, regroup and plan for the next event. “[States] was tough and challenging,” Vasquez said. “But the cadets [really] pushed themselves.” Despite being surprised at making it to the states competition, the cadets made sure to perform their best while competing. “[They] were excited and ready to take home a trophy, which they did,” George said. “[Everyone was] ecstatic about winning their first state award; both the cadets and our instructor couldn’t stop mentioning that it was our first state award ever.”
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OUR TAKE Empowerment from all angles
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mbarrassment, isolated, ashamed — feelings that could come from someone who feels they are “different” and is in need of a sense of support. Clubs like Gay Straight Alliance and Girl Up have been able to provide comfort and a voice for individuals looking for a place that understands their ideas and beliefs. The Gay Straight Alliance hosted a quilt-making activity during Ally Week for students to connect with the club and learn more about the LGBTQ community, teaching others at school more about their society. Through meetings, posted information, videos on their website and participation in Pride activities, the club has done a terrific job at not only promoting themselves but also advocating for those who need it. Closing out the first semester, it is place where students can feel accepted and discuss issues that they as individuals and the LGBTQ community face. According to GSA Network, the students in the club are trained to advocate for equal social policies in the school by standing up and stopping bullying, which is something that should be seen more often. Another club that advocates for students is Girl Up; they have focused on empowering girls worldwide. For club members, a focal point is to ensure that girls have the education they deserve, because they see that as the start to a successful future. It is refreshing to see how members have played a part in helping girls in need by assisting those in abuse shelters, where students can see issues affecting women and how gender inequality makes it more difficult for women in certain situations. Experiences like these can act as a catalyst for girls to continue working towards gender equality and justice. They have been exceptional at letting local girls break down gender inequality barriers, and the group will only continue growing. A goal that they have is to get some male members join, to show that males can understand the circumstances that girls face. These are just a couple of the school clubs and organizations promoting equality, others like JOI Club, Ambassadors, Diabetes Club and Providing Autism Links and Supports are all working to help those in need. These groups provide a positive outlook for those who need it. All have shed light on situations that need improvement, and all have provided a supportive outlet for groups of students. Through the work of groups like these, it has become more natural for people at school to quit being ashamed or embarrassed of who they are. Our school is not perfect at making people feel accepted; we still have work to do, but groups like these have made campus a more accepting, welcoming place.
Hagerty High School 3225 Lockwood Blvd. Oviedo, FL 32765 hagertyjourn@blueprint.com Phone: (407) 871-0750 Fax: (407) 871-0817
The BluePrint is a student-produced newspaper in which the student editors make all content decisions. The newspaper belongs to the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, the National Scholastic Press Association and the Florida Scholastic Press Association. Opinions expressed within the newspaper do not represent the staff’s views as a whole (except for Our Take), the views of Seminole County Public Schools or Hagerty High’s administration and staff. For information about advertising in the paper, please contact us via one of the above methods. We reserve the right to reject any advertisement.
Editor-in-Chief Ahilyn Aguilar Managing Editor Melissa Donovan Sports Editor Michael Gibson News Editor Emily Cosio Opinions Editor Katarina Harrison Business Manger Melissa Donovan
Online Editor Bryson Turner Staff Reporters Sydney Crouch Sarah Dreyer Noah Kemper Jessica Maldonado Tara Routie Adviser Brit Taylor Principal Dr. Mary Williams
Tis’ the season for respect Sarah Dreyer
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Staff Reporter he bell rings, signaling the beginning of lunch. Students crowd around the cafeteria and pour into the lunch room, pushing, shoving, and even cutting through the lines to be the first to get food. The lunch staff attempts to control the chaos, but no one seems to hear or pay attention. By the end of lunch, the cafeteria and courtyard are trashed, and the only people standing are the janitors left to clean up the mess. Where is the respect? Respect is a consideration for one’s feelings and rights. If a student were to fall in the hallway, another student would have a regard for their feelings, making sure they are okay. These are simple things that many students can do, yet the concept has been seemingly forgotten. Respect is not just an issue in the cafeteria; it is a problem for many adults and students. There are moments during the school year where teachers get some respect, like Teacher Appreciation Week, but in general, that seems to be the last thing on anyone’s mind. How many times a day do you complain to everyone about how much homework you have, that you stayed up till 3 in the morning, and how much your life stinks because of school? It is the same thing every day. Complaining a little is okay, but no one needs to know this every day, and over-focusing on yourself disrespects other people. Instead, ask how the people around you are doing. If tired, like yourself, then you have something to relate to, but try not to always make it about yourself. Be considerate. If you have a problem and need to vent to someone, that is fine. Everyone has problems and need to discuss it sometimes. Say hi to people you know in the hallways, or even give a smile. Not a creepy smile or a crazy smile, just a little smile to let people know that you care. The decrease in respect is not just occurring on campus, but also nationally. In order to stop this trend, it starts with you. If
no one seems to be respecting you, respect them first. Because once you start respecting a person, soon they will start respecting you and realize that you care about them. Taking initiative and being the first to change shows maturity and will result in getting respect. Disrespect also comes from talking bad about others when students make offensive jokes. If a student were to make a racist joke about an African American, you not only disrespect them, but also yourself. For each crude joke a person makes, their own respect for themselves dwindles until there is none left. You also decrease the number of people who have respect for you. Not only are racist jokes a huge disrespect factor, but other people make jokes about ethnic groups. For example, the classic “all Muslims are terrorists” jokes are very disrespectful and have no place in school or outside. Again, you disrespect them and yourself. When you start to respect people around you, slowly but surely, people will begin to respect everyone else. Soon enough, students and teachers will one day have respect for one another if people start taking that initiative. As the holidays draw near, it is vital to help spread the cheer that comes with it. Even if it’s just wishing everyone around you happy holidays, it shows that you care and are into the spirit. By spreading the Christmas spirit, you demonstrate respect to those around you. Earn some respect this holiday with a simple act of kindness for someone you know. It can be holding a door, making a homemade present, making a card or baking cookies, and share them with everyone. This is a simple way of showing that you care and respect someone. If you are willing to go the extra mile, you could even help a friend out who is stressed for finals by helping them study or just being a shoulder to cry on. Therefore, respect the campus by picking up trash during lunch, respect others by being considerate, and above all else, respect yourself.
Holiday gift guide: Bacon socks are not okay Tara Routie
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he girl you sit next to in algebra class hands you a present. You open it, and see she got you bacon socks. Even though you are a vegetarian, you begin to panic because now you have to go buy her something. It is hard to buy presents for people, especially if you don’t know what to get them. Unless you want to be stuck in an awkward gift exchange, at least listen to these suggestions. Gift giving has many subcategories, and they all depend on your relationship. Giving money, gift cards or those basic little mugs with hot chocolate are all appropriate for the different people in your life. The key, however, is to know which person fits into what category. Person 1: Friend, but not a best friend- Friend gifts can either be super easy, or super difficult. You know each other, but you don’t know each other. If you absolutely have no clue, buy them chocolate. If they don’t like chocolate, unfriend them immediately because you don’t need someone in your life who doesn’t like chocolate. Well, unless they are allergic, but that is the only exception. However, if you do know some of their likes, buy little stocking stuffers based off of that. For example, if blue is their favorite color, buy a little stocking and stuff it with blue things. Even if some of the little gifts are basic, it is the thought
the counts, right? Person 2: Best friend- Very different from a friend because you know his or her likes and dislikes. You could just buy a present based off of their likes, or you could create a unique gift based off inside jokes. Best friends are a little tricky to generalize, but by this point, you should know your best friend well enough to get them something they like without too much thought. To-go cups are very popular this year, so buying a cup and personalizing it with their initial, a quote, or their favorite sports team is a good idea. In addition, if you are best friends then you probably have inside jokes, so buy some small gifts according to the jokes. One time, my friend picked the ugliest picture of her best friend, framed it, and gave it to her. It might be awkward, funny or embarrassing if the person is opening it in front of other people, but at least the two of you will understand the presents. Person 3: Parent/Guardian- This person, or people, are by far the hardest to shop for. My parents either tell me they don’t want anything, or tell me to buy them this expensive gift that they know I can’t afford. I suggest to follow two guidelines, one for each parent. For your mom, go out to the store and buy her some makeup or nail polish. Now if your mom doesn’t wear makeup, or you are just absolutely clueless when it comes to beauty supplies, her favorite candy, perfume, or cheap jewelry that you think looks nice will work. For your dad, anything sports-related should do (or anything related to his favorite musician, hobby, etc.). My dad
is the harder parent to shop for, so for the past couple of years I have gotten him items related to his favorite sports team, the New York Giants. I’ve gotten him a cup, slippers and a blanket, and who knows what I will get him this year. However, if your parents do not like sports or beauty items, make a DIY gift, buy them a gift card, or just make them a regular card and simply write “I didn’t know what to buy you so here is your present.” Again, it’s the thought that counts. Person 4: The person who got you a gift but you didn’t get them one so now you have to buy one- This is one of the most awkward situations, but it happens. If you are caught in this dilemma, categorize them into the correct category, and buy a present based off of the previous information given. However, this method is relatively time consuming, and if they don’t fit into a category, go with a Chick-fil-A gift card. And if they don’t like Chick-fil-A, toss them out with the chocolate haters, because who doesn’t like Chick-fil-A?
“They need to better the school’s lunch.” - Johnathan Polero, 9
“Some of the teachers are just rude.” - Isabelle Lynch, 12
BARKING
“I don’t like how we have a certain amount of tardies and absences, and the amount of homework we have.” - Jillian Johansen, 11
“I would change the fact that students are not allowed to eat off campus for lunch.” - Serena Barker, 10
“The amount of homework we get each night.” - Esther Xhumari, 10
Barking Mad is a collection of short submissions about things that tick students off around school. If something at school makes you mad, go to hagertyjourn.com and submit your entry to Ask the Editor, and it may be featured here.
“I don’t like our trees, like our shrubs outside and the gardening.” - Malcolm Robinson , 12
“I would want to change the time for when school starts because we should have more time to sleep.” - Bam Sirirak, 11
“I try to stay away from drama because I’m trying to go to school, learn and graduate.” - Mercedes Sprank, 11
“The teachers give way too much homework.” - Dylan Sowder, 9
“This might sound ridiculous but I would want to change the people.” - Rachel West, 10
“I would change the length of lunch. I would make it longer.” - Aleea Cauley, 10
MAD
“I don’t like the teachers who give out way too much homework, like we have other classes.” - Adam Gray, 9
food reviews 5
4 food reviews
MISSION Bbq
1000 DEgrees
Jessica Maldonado
Sydney Crouch
Staff Reporter
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etting a pizza that’s ready to eat in three minutes sounds like something to be skeptical about, but ever since 1000 Degrees opened on Aug. 17, this quick fix can come true. With six types of pizza listed on the menu, the ability to build your own pizza makes it an infinite amount of choices. You pick the size and type of dough, a sauce, cheese, meats and veggies. This is similar to how Subway works. If you don’t want pizza, there are other options like wings, salads, breadsticks, and desert, all within an affordable price. Ordering the basic cheese pizza and only spending $5 was an excellent choice for a girl who likes her pizza plain. The crust was nice and thin • 968 Mitchell Hammock and there wasn’t a lot of red • Opened August 17 sauce, which was perfect. I also ordered a slice of bacon • Pizza and sides mac and cheese, with a mac • Known for flAsh pizza and cheese base instead of red sauce, which was also a pretty good choice if you are looking for something a little extra cheesy. The pieces of bacon gave it a bit more of a salty kick, which worked really well with the overflowing cheese. Even though not much can go wrong with pizza, I’d have to say I had a bit of trouble trying to eat it. For me, the cheese kept on slipping off forcing me to pick it up and put it back on. I eventually became too frustrated with not being to take a single bite without the cheese staying on. This left me to be a person who no one trusts because they eat their pizza with utensils instead of their hands. However, the service was amazing and made customers feel welcomed. As soon as new customers walk in they get the menu explained by a person who has smile from ear to ear on their face. The space was perfect, with enough space to sit and eat and enough to order and be in line. However, the location itself is a bit challenging to get to due to the construction on the roads. 1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria is a decent place. It wasn’t amazing, tastewise, but if you are looking for a fast, cheap and a choice to build your own pizza, then 1000 Degrees just might be for you.
"I loved how they alwa ys asked if I had enough toppin gs." - Laila Viator, 9
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Staff Reporter airly priced barbeque with a side of patriotism, Mission BBQ is a rustic-style restaurant dedicated to honoring veterans. Their mission is to give veterans a special experience while visiting and fundraise for several organizations in return for their service. Around lunch time, employees salute the American flag in order to pay their respects. Showing their patriotism, the business has dedicated veterans parking spots and serves free dessert to visiting veterans. Along with respect, gratitude, and great service, there are a variety of classic barbeque dishes such as pulled pork, pulled chicken, or brisket, and these are served with classic sides like mac-n-cheese, green beans, or fries. A variety of barbeque sauces are offered to accompany the southern style meals. I tried the pulled pork with fries, which, accompanied with the appropriate sauce, was a pretty average barbeque meal. Nothing really stood out about it, however, the dessert definitely made a home run. The dessert menu changes regularly, but the treats will definitely satisfy a sweet tooth. Their mouth-watering dishes are guaranteed to complete the patriotic experience, accompanied by the appropriate décor: wooden tables and chairs, galvanized accents, and veterans tributes displayed on the walls. Mission BBQ also • 968 Mitchell Hammock carries a very strong, smoky, barbeque aroma. Although • opened ON august 7 it completes the rustic • sERVES pulled pork and theme, you are guaranteed to go home smelling like fries a southern night campfire. • Known for patriotism They definitely made sure to incorporate every sense in order to enhance the experience. When eating at Mission BBQ, expect delightful dishes and a significant story behind your meal. This restaurant will teach friends and family about patriotism and respecting our veterans, as well as offer a delicious meal to hit the spot.
"The food is relly good ." and has good portions - Jamie Nordahl, 11
FRESH
"I really like how it re volves so much around vete rans." - Emily Bonck, 11
EATS
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MAPLE STREET
Emily Cosio
Staff Reporter
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News Editor ucinella’s Brick Oven Pizzeria is going to be the local pizza place that friends and families take into consideration when deciding where to order on Fridays. Their calzone, filled with cheese and the choice of any two toppings, was absolutely delicious. The cheese inside was perfectly melted and tasted amazing. The bread was soft and seasoned tastefully. The pizza however was just okay. The crust was a tiny bit burnt and didn’t have much flavor, but the cheese and the sauce of the pizza could easily make a person forget about the crust. The best item of the menu had to be their garlic knots. The knots came with a side of marinara sauce, but they had such great flavor that the sauce was not needed. Their salad could have been better, it only had lettuce, tomato and onion. But once a customer drizzles on the house dressing, it transforms into something great. The food was excellent, but the location was a nightmare. In the front of the building, there is only one legitimate parking spot, so we had to park illegally in the handicap parking space. People are forced to park alongside the road for additional parking, but thankfully, Cucinella’s offers delivery around the Oviedo area with a minimum order of $20. Inside, there is no seating, • 254 N Division St which was a let-down, but the • Opened On september 15 service is quick when I called • Serves Pizza and SALAD in for an order. The building is very small, but customers • Known for pizza are able to see the bakers making the pizza. Watching them toss the crust in the air put a smile on my face and forget about the hassle. Overall, Cucinella’s deserves four out of five stars. As far as pizza goes, Cucinella’s is not the greatest, but they make up for it with a large selection of food that beats the competition.
ocated at Oviedo on the Park, Maple Street Biscuit Company puts a twist on traditional breakfast. With biscuits as their staple, Maple Street sells creative sandwich biscuit combinations, with some creations including a full chicken breast an maple syrup. The restaurant has been trending on social media, and it is easy to see why. It was crowded as soon as the door opened and it took a while for the food to get made. The wait was not ideal, but it was reasonable. Since so many people were waiting by the drinks for their food, it was hard to push through everyone, but eventually I got my food and went outside because of the lack of indoor seating. As for the atmosphere, • 978 city walk lane the restaurant features lights • Opened ON November 10 strung across the roofs which • Serves biscuits and coffee added a cozy tone, but the lights serve no purpose since • Known for unique biscuits they are not open at night. However, there is another restaurant adjacent to Maple Street, so it is possible that they are both sharing the patio once it opens. The customer service was rather average. They were not overly nice as one would expect at a southern resturant, but they were not rude either. The food is fairly priced for the portion sizes, and the variety of biscuit combinations make it easy for people with different taste preferences. The food was the best part because of the flavor and freshness. While some of the biscuits are plain with only gravy on top, others feature bacon, chicken, and dill pickles inside of the biscuit sandwich. There are also traditional breakfast options with a twist such as hashbrowns, fruit, and even mac and cheese. The hot chocolate, however, was watered down and barely had a chocolate taste. It needed milk instead of water. The food was the most enjoyable factor, and the overall atmosphere was above average. If the building was bigger and featured more seating, it would be a more pleasant experience even on crowded days. The food cancels out the lack of space, and overall, it is definitely worth trying out Maple Street Biscuit Company.
sa just wish the place wa "The food is so good, I e." people could sit insid little bigger so more - Drew Faillo, 11
ARBY’s
951 Lockwood Blvd opened December 8 Meats in sandwhiches Known for Curly Fries
FOOD FRENZY IN OVIEDO AREA
KyoTo
• 14807 E Colonial Dr • opening soon • Japanese food and sushi • Known for the Hibachi style "I love Kyoto, it's like a cheaper version of Kobe's." - Alisa Salgado, 11
When driving through Oviedo, it is easy to come across an upcoming restaurant, or a big "Coming soon!" sign. This uprising in local restaurants, paired with higher population means more mouths to feed. These new businesses have given opportunities for employment for those seeking them, and opportunities for something fun to try on the weekend. The variety of foods has proved to be an attraction for locals, prompting them to try it for themselves.
• • • •
POPEYE’s
230 Mitchell hammock opened November 22 Louisiana style chicken KNOWN FOR chicken and biscuits
• • • •
d chicken." "Super good biscuits an - Paola Fantouzzi, 12
THE FOLLOWING RESULTS ARE BASED ON RATINGS FROM YELP.COM FOR THE oVIEDO AREA.
tOP LOCAL PLACES
FAST FOOD
1. Pollo Tropical 2. Chick-fil-A 3. Jon Smith Subs
FRozen NITROGEN
Tara Routie
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Staff Reporter lowing nitrogen out of your mouth while eating cereal might be on your social media feed lately. Following the nitrogen trend, Frozen Nitrogen Ice Cream recently opened and has been all the rage in Oviedo. One of the first things I noticed was the theme. It is decorated like a chemistry lab with various formulas written on the wall and graduated cylinders resting on a shelf, giving the place a cool vibe. Also, the menu it shaped like the periodic table, with the different flavors and toppings replicating the elements, which ties the whole experience together. The theme is very inviting, and the wall will make your chemistry teacher happy while explaining how the process works. Ice cream, frozen yogurt, coconut ice cream and • 4498 N Alafaya trail dragon breath are available. The first three are self• Opened ON August 24 explanatory, but the dragon • serves ice cream and froyo breath option is the most • Known for dragon breath intriguing. The workers pour liquid nitrogen over cereal or a Rice Krispies treat, and the excess nitrogen immediately turns into a gas. It is definitely a cool sight to see, and pictures don’t do it justice. The dragon breath does not have too much flavor and is a little overrated, so buying frozen yogurt or ice cream is a good option to accomany the drage breath. It was very smooth and creamy, and the consistency was just right. According to the informational wall, the nitrogen flash freezes the ice cream almsot instantly, which creates less crystals and leads to a creamier consistency than traditional ice cream. It was one of the best frozen yogurt desserts I have ever had. Overall, Frozen Nitrogen Ice Cream had delicious treats and an inviting atmosphere. The staff was very nice and helped me order since I didn’t know how it worked. Oviedo hasn’t had a true ice cream shop in a while, so it is refreshing to know that there is one right down the street with a unique twist.
was super cool" "The smoking cereal - Jamie Nordahl, 11
"It was super good to me because I love pizza." - Jamie Nordahl, 11
"I ended up getting Th e Five and it was actually re ally good." - Jordyn Sparrell, 10
"aRBY'S IS PRETTY GOOD FAST FOOD PLACE TO GO ONCE AND AWHILE." - sERENA bARKER, 10
CUCINELLA’s PIZZA
Tara Routie
Dairy Queen
Moe’s
• • • •
976 Mitchell Hammock Opened August 12 Mexican Food kNOWN FOR QUESO "Really good and they have amazing queso." - Lexi groenick, 11
"It's a good treat." - Rachel West, 10
Pizza 1. Blaze Fast-Fire'd Pizza 2. Lazy Moon 3. Tomasino’s Pizza
dESSERT
960 Mitchell Hammock oPENED July 25 bURGERS AND iCECREAM KNOWN FOR THE bLIZZARD
1. Jeremiah's Italian Ice 2. De Azúcar Bakeshop 3. The Pop Parlour
"It is soooo good." - Bam Sirirak, 11
BBQ
1. 4 rIVERS SMOKEHOUSE 2. C&W Bar-B-Que 3. Mission BBQ
bREAKFAST
1. The TownHouse Restaurant 2. Maple Street Biscuit Company 3. IHOP
Design by Jessica Maldonado and Ahilyn Aguilar, art by Sydney Crouch
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IT’S Local places to get festive for holidays Ahilyn Aguilar
LIT
become one of students’ favorite places to go to during winter break. Even Editor-in-Chief though people need to pay $10 to participate in games and amusement inter break can go two ways: either you have fun or spend all rides, Rosu and friends like junior Kirsten Green agree that the cost is cheap the time wishing you did. With two weeks off, students often and worth the money. look forward to getting excited for the holiday but, festive “The Waterford Fair is definitely one me and my friends’ must-go to events can be pricey, which causes students to miss out on events that places during winter break because it’s so much fun,” Rosu said. “You celebrate the holidays. really get to feel the holiday spirit because they go all out with holiday Here is a list of local events that are cheap but still manage to light up lights and the rides so my money isn’t wasted.” Starting Dec.17, the fair will be open every day until Jan. 1, from 2 your holiday spirit. p.m. to 11 p.m.
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OVIEDO ON THE PARK
Address- 299 Central Lake Lane, Oviedo, 32765 Next event- Dec.16 Breakfast with Santa Prices- Vary depending on event, most are free
For students who enjoy festive activities with their family, the City of Oviedo Recreation and Parks Department will be holding 12 Days of Christmas, a yearly event that hosts various events for Oviedo residents. The events started on Dec. 1 and will run through Dec. 17. Each event will be held in multiple locations, such as the Riverside Park. However, most events are located in Oviedo on the Park due to the proximity. For students like junior Julianna Orlando, “12 Days of Christmas” is the main event during winter break due to the multiple activities she can participate in for free. “[12 Days of Christmas] is the event that I go to every year with my family because it gets us in our Christmas spirit,” Orlando said. “Each weekend they hold a different event - it’s a fun way to spend family time.” Starting in early December, events like a tree lighting, chorus performances, holiday parades and snow mountains attract students who enjoy celebrating the holidays in an open space. The City of Oviedo Recreation and Parks Department will be hold future events in Oviedo on the Park such as a Christmas movie marathon on Dec. 15 and a Jingle Bell Run 5K as the closing event on Dec. 17.
WATERFORD LAKES TOWN CENTER Address- 413 Alafaya Trail, Orlando, 32828 Next event- Starting Dec. 17 it will be open every day of the week Prices- $10 per person for amusement rides
Junior Jacq’lene Rosu enjoys looking at Christmas lights while walking around with friends and does not mind traveling, so the Santa’s Winter Wonderland Village at Waterford Lakes Town Center is a good place to begin the holiday festivities. With free admission and parking, the fair offers multiple amusement rides, games, a Santa’s workshop, holiday foods and displays, and has
LIGHT UP UCF
Address- 12777 Gemini Blvd. North, Orlando, 32816 Next event- Dec.16 Holiday Market Under the Stars, Movie: “The Polar Express” Prices- $12 for skating, $4 for amusement rides, prices vary for carriage rides
Junior Julian Perez finds just walking around and looking at Christmas lights to be too repetitive. He prefers something more active, like the yearly awaited Light Up UCF, his go-to event during break. Ending on Dec. 31 every year, this event is known for the ice skating rink, plus it offers multiple activities such as ice sliding, three amusement rides, carriage rides, Christmas pictures with Santa, and holiday movies every weekend. “Everyone gets excited for [Light Up UCF] because it has it all,” Perez said. “It’s also the closest event to my house, so it’s a convenient way to have a fun weekend.” Even though skating is $12 per person and prices for photos and rides vary, parking and activities are free. Students can also watch holiday films and experience the light show with snow without paying. Every Friday, Light Up UCF hosts Christmas movies, which vary each week, and presents light shows multiple times throughout the day in front of the skating rink. Light Up UCF also holds a yearly holiday market where everyone can finish holiday shopping while looking at Christmas lights. This year the holiday market Under the Stars will be held Dec. 16.
CHRISTMAS LIGHT HUNTING most lit neighbORHOODs 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Stratton Woods Huntington Ellington States Cardinal Glen River Walk
For those times that plans are cancelled because of a busy schedule or for students who prefer a more private hangout, driving around and looking at Christmas lights is a good way to get festive. Neighborhoods like Huntington and Ellington Estates tend to have big Christmas decorations and stay up until early January, which gives students time to enjoy all the lights. Although pricey festive places might have more activites, local events can get people in just as much of a spirited mood for a lot less.
lifestyles Original Opinions by Bryson Turner Runaways (Episodes 1-6) Hulu: **** The tenth television series that’s set in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, “Runaways” centers around a group of teens who unite to defeat a common enemy— their parents. The first six episodes of this show do an exquisite job introducing the Runaways and each of their parents, who surprisingly aren’t clear cut villains like they were in the comics. Each storyline is compelling and draws its audience in for the long haul, despite the occasional bland scene or two. Premiering Tuesdays on Hulu, the first half of Runaways’ debut season has done a fantastic job at delivering a perfect adaptation in regards to aesthetics, while still creating a fresh story that takes turns viewers may not expect. The Punisher Netflix: ***** Reprising his role from Daredevil’s second season, Jon Bernthal once again excels as Frank Castle, who, during a personal mission to exact vengeance on those who murdered his family, uncovers a larger conspiracy that haunts him. Subtlety is not in “The Punisher’s” vocabulary. It doesn’t hold back in its brutality, both in its action and messages. It depicts veterans returning home from war and how it affects their psyche in a blunt, but respectful, manner. Most of the supporting characters deliver outstanding performances as well, particularly David Lieberman (Ebon MossBachrach), Billy Russo (Ben Barnes), and Lewis Wilson (Daniel Webber). The Punisher is well acted and executed series that makes up for its flaws by going the extra mile when it’s at its best. The Marvelous Ms. Maisel Amazon: ***** Already nominated for two Golden Globes, “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” is already shaping up to be one of Amazon’s flagship series. The comedy, set in late 1950s New York, follows the life of Miriam “Midge” Maisel (Rachel Brosnahan), who discovers her flair for stand-up comedy, after her husband (Michael Zegen) leaves her, and she teams up with a comedy club employee, Susie (Alex Borstein), to hone her act. The ‘50s aesthetic, from the music to the sets, are astounding, but Brosnahan and Borstein make this series. Their similar attitudes, but massively different upbringings, lead to numerous laughs whether they are together or on their own. “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” is the funniest new comedy out there.
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sports
Local races allow runners to compete in a supportive community Foley ran the Mt. Dora Half Marathon, which Hasenbank has danced for her whole life but she “It opened my eyes, and I realized there was Emily Cosio & Katarina Harrison goes through Mt. Dora before sunrise, allowing felt dance was no longer sufficient to keep her so many more people who run in intervals,” News Editor & Opinions Editor runners to get scenic looks at the Christmas fit. Her dad was always a runner, so Hasenbank Hasenbank said. “I didn’t even think that was eople describe running as a chore or lights. Disney World also hosts races for people decided to try out running and completed the a thing. Now I can go 26 miles, and I never thought that could happen.” torture. However, there are those who of all ages, some of which allow runners to go Susan G. Komen 5K. through the parks and meet with characters think of running as a pastime, not during the race. only for health, but also for fun. “It’s beautiful and it’s “It is really nice mind Christmas,” Foley said. “When therapy,” history teacher Erin you start running, it’s still Foley who has been running dark, so all the city’s lit up "Community races for years said. “It’s dein Christmas lights, and it’s stressing. You’re not really are just fun and if you “"The only person that you're really cool.” thinking about anything so run slow it's nothing in competition with is the All these reasons make your mind is clear.” bad."" person in the mirror." community races a clear Running in community ~Erin Foley option for some students. and competitive races can Junior Shayne Watson has help people of all ages learn to "It's good to have a “"Start small. Build. chosen to participate in a love running. Having a race to group of people Set a Goal, and work Disney race just for fun, and train for may make it easier to stick plans to run the Disney Princess 5k on to a goal, and having so many people to run motivate you."” toward it."” Feb. 23, her first official race. alongside may help calm any nerves. ~~Garret O'Malley ~~Diane Hasenbank Watson decided to sign up for this Community races may also provide the opportunity for serious runners to run in a less race with her mom after volleyball stressful setting or allow them to train in their coach Juanita Hitt told them how offtime. Senior Garett O’Malley, who ran in the fun Disney races were. Watson state championship for cross country, also runs in trains with her mom by running at Planet Fitness and around her community races. “"Don't care about what “In school races you have to think about your neighborhood. your time is or if you are “"Start off slow."” “I’ve always liked all the Disney competition and you have think about running the first person to cross ~~Erin Foley for the team and you can’t let the team down,” princesses and I thought it would be or the last person to O’Malley said. “But community races are just a cute race to do,” Watson said. cross. Just start and go." Student’s races are usually only fun, and if you run slow, it’s nothing bad. It’s just ~ ~Diane Hasenbank 5K, but serious runners, like O’Malley, to get a fun run in.” dare going further in 10K races. Community races also help people who have “I ran a 10k, it was brutally painful not been serious about racing in the past find their passion. Many races do not require the and awful,” O’Malley said. “"Don't give up. You will get Most races longer than 10K have age participant to be an athlete, and many do not faster." even have a qualifying time. While some races limits preventing students from participating, ~~Garret O'Malley outside of school can be competitive, there are but some teachers like to go even farther than plenty available for people who are just starting that. Foley regularly does races as long as a half marathon and sometimes completes more than to run. Local races may go through, over or around one race in a month. Dance teacher Diane Hasenbank also interesting locations, making running seem more fun than it may seem on generic roads. runs races and has completed two marathons.
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sports
Setting new milestones Girls Weightlifting begins season undefeated Michael Gibson
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Sports Editor arly in the season, the girls weightlifting team faced a challenge. They were up against defending state champion Spruce Creek and rival Oviedo in the first meet. The team was the underdog going in, since the majority of the last year’s group had graduated, but they beat Spruce Creek, 48-41, and Oviedo, 57-32. Both wins sparked a six-meet winning streak for the team which has yet to lose. “Spruce Creek [has] won probably half a dozen state championships, so to go in against them, and Oviedo, and win with it being our first meet, it was a big accomplishment for our girls,” assistant coach Rob Sauvao said. Junior Cheyanne Ducharme led the way for the first meet, finishing with a 165-pound clean and jerk and a 300-pound total in the 101 pound weight class. Ducharme and the rest of the team would continue their hot streak against Winter Springs on Wednesday, Nov. 8, winning 48-38, and Ducharme would tie an all-time state record with a 170 pound clean and jerk. “The season is going great,” Ducharme, who finished second in the state in her weight class last season, said. “We are winning all our meets, performing well and not slacking.” The records continued in the team’s third meet against Lake Mary. The team won 6910 ,but the biggest moment of the meet came when junior Morgan Sylvia clean and jerked 160 pounds to set a new school record in her weight class. The success of the team is due in large part to head coach David Attaway. Attaway provides the team with plenty of opportunities to practice in his CrossFit gym, while also holds late practices for the members of the team who are
Program/season accomplishments
also in cheer. “We have all been working really hard,” senior Maegan Drewry said. “[Attaway] pushes us mentally and physically to help us get stronger.” Throughout Thanksgiving break, the team practiced daily to get ready for the second half of the regular season. The practice paid off as they defeated Seminole 66-20, on Wednesday, Nov. 29, just two days after school started back. One week after that, the team defeated conference opponent Lyman 50-37 and improved to 6-0 on the season. With an undefeated record and only two regular season meets left, the team expects to win a fourth straight district championship. “Our chances are good,” Sauvao said. “Especially with winter break coming up we will have a lot of time to prepare.” This year’s team consists of only a handful of seniors and returners, who have had to step up to help instruct the team’s inexperienced core. Returners such as Ducharme know what the pressure of a meet feels like and they do their best to help the newcomers stay relaxed. “We have taught them proper form and what to think about when [they are] attempting a heavy lift or a new max,” Ducharme said. [Also] how to act when they are in a meet to calm their nerves.” The team’s next two meets are against Lake Howell on Dec. 13 and Lake Brantley on Dec. 20, and they will advance to the district championships on Wednesday, Jan. 10 at Lake Mary. Everyone is working together to finish the regular season undefeated and ultimately send three girls to the state finals. “This season has been going really good and we have all been really dedicated,” Drewry said.
sports shorts
GIRLS BASKETBALL DEFEATS LYMAN The girls basketball team recently defeated Lyman in a close game, winning 48-46. Leading the way in the game was freshman Laila Victor with 17 points and junior Taylor Waters with 14 points. “My favorite part about the team is the potential. Our juniors have a strong bond, and I am looking forward to see how they lead the younger generation,” head coach Joshua Johns said. The next game is Monday, Dec.1 and the team looks to advance to 4-2 on the season.
GIRLS SOCCER EARNS BIG WIN AGAINST GATEWAY Despite a slow start to the season, the girls soccer team turned their season around with a big win. The whole team played a role in their 8-0 victory against Gateway. “My favorite part about the team is how I love that this team supports each other and continue to improve,” head coach Angie Densberger said. “Our whole team is wonderful and we are fighting throughout the rest of the season.” The team currently holds a record of 3-6-1 and will face Oviedo next on Monday, Dec. 18.
BOYS BASKETBALL FALLS SHORT IN RIVALRY GAME On Friday Dec. 8, the boys basketball team took on cross town rival Oviedo. The team closed out the half on an 11-0 run to lead 27-23 at the half. Oviedo later made up a four point deficient and tied the score leading into the fourth quarter. The team only trailed by one with three minutes left in the game, but Oviedo went on a 9-0 run and won 5646. “It was a tough loss, but our team can rebound quick and we will be ready for the next game.” head coach Josh Kohn said.
BOYS BASKETBALL VS OVIEDO The boys wrestling team competed on Dec. 2 at the Clash of the Titans tournament. The team placed fourth, with junior Ryan Rowland leading the way. “My favorite part about the team is how hard our guys work for a common goal while trying to earn another championship,” head coach Scotty Diaz said. The team also won the Johnny Rouse invitational by defeating Winter Springs 46-30. The team improved to 5-0 on the season, and the next match is Dec. 16 at the 3A District 3 Duals.
• 32.4 points: average margin of victory • Defeated the defending state champion • 3 straight previous district titles
Personal bests • Cheyanne Ducharme: 300 pound total • Taylor Krapf: 225 pound total • Camilla Pagan: 240 pound total • Katy Enot: 245 pound total Cheyanne Ducharme, 11
Soccer ahead of curve Bryson Turner
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Online Editor espite the departure of multiple starters from last year’s district runner-up team, boys soccer has continued its winning ways and looks to make another postseason run. The team got off to a hot start, winning five of their first six matches, with blowout wins against East River, 7-0, and Winter Springs, 8-0 and a victory against Oviedo, 3-1. Their lone loss came in a tightly contested match with conference leader, and local rival, Seminole, 2-1. “We’re rivals who have respect for each other,” defender Logan Phipps said. “But once we are on the field the ‘respect’ goes out the window.” Though Seminole remains undefeated and ahead of the team, Phipps is confident that they will be there at the end of the year competing for the state crown. “We have very good team spirit,” Phipps said. “I think we have a good chance this year.” The team’s latest victory came on the road against Lake Howell, where forward Park Wickizer and midfielder Micheal Graue each scored a goal apiece while midfielder Ethan Keating and defender David Dickerson each earned an assist. “It was a very great game,” Chin said. “We were able to keep our composure, even when things got ugly.” As of the Lake Howell match, Wickizer, Snoap, Graue and midfielder Muhammad Ali are tied for the most goals on the team with five. Midfielder Alex Chin is right behind them, with four goals, but he leads assists with a commanding 10. To put this in perspective, the player with the second-most assists is midfielder Michael Lynch, with three. “I think of myself as a very unselfish person, so I just see joy in other people scoring goals,” Chin said. It is not just Chin with fancy footwork. “Our team is one of the best passing teams in the conference,” Snoap said. Though, Snoap still notices some room for improvement. “Once we get more chemistry our passing will be really fluid and we’ll move it up from top
TAMING THE LIONS Midfielder Muhammad Ali dribbles down the field during a match against crosstown rival Oviedo. The team won the game, 3-1. photo by Nora Godikson
to bottom,” Snoap said. Like Snoap, Lynch is also placing emphasis on teambuilding. “We need to play a lot more to get used to each other,” Lynch said. This fact isn’t lost on new starters, like Phipps. “We have very good team spirit this year,” Phipps said. “We’ll get better the longer we play together.” Only two starters returned from last year, Snoap and Lynch, but many current starters, like Chin, were watching last year from the sidelines. “Now that I have the opportunity to start I feel like I can make the team better and I’m going to do everything in my power to help us win,” Chin said. With three sophomores in the lineup, the team is looking to its youth to get it farther than before. “Give it a few more games,” Snoap said. “I think we can be one of the top teams in the state.” The team’s next match is at Lyman on Friday, Dec. 15, a road rematch with Seminole will be on Dec. 20, and districts will begin on Jan. 29.