F EAT U R E STO RY
SPORTS At the Heart of the JFK Experience
COVER STORY
Santiago Quirarte World Class Golfer and JFK Alumni class ‘o4
JOHN F. KENNEDY · THE AMERICAN SCHOOL OF QUERÉTARO
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Spring 2013 VOL. 1 NO. 11 ·
may 2013
vision
Mirtha Stappung M.Ed., MA General Director
Debra Cortney MA
Times Message from our General Director
Pre–school Principal
Mark Dunn M.Ed., MA Elementary School Principal
Tara Fitzgerald Ed. Admin., MS Middle School Principal
Adrian Leece MA, BSc, FRMtS High School Principal
Arturo Bustamante Athletic Department Director
Dra. Josefina Morgan Financial Director
Jeffrey Lewis
OPERATIONS AND SERVICES DIRECTOR
Ing. Ángel De Lope Friedeberg , C.P. Benito Adolfo Tagle Jiménez, Arq. Matthew Schmidt Covo, Dr. Raúl Gerardo Paredes Guerrero, Lic. Luz Ma. Aguirre Schoelman, Arq. Martha Naranjo Romero, Dra. María Isabel Miranda Sauce. Board of Directors
Lic. Mónica Duarte Balcárcel
Editor in chief and Chair of the editorial board
Coaching Moms rt of our An essential pa
ip Sportsmansh
Our Comprehensive Physical Development Program
Lic. Karla Ríos Amaro CONTENT MANAGER
Mirtha Stappung, Mariana Hérnandez, Lucía Jiménez, Arturo Baez, Ramón Salce, Alejandra Burillo, Hayde Cabrera, Laura Vázquez, Alfredo Ávila, Elda Esponda, Rodrigo Quirarte, Santiago Quirarte, Arturo Bustamante, Dante Sepúlveda, Mónica Duarte. WRITERS
Leonor Cortina
An Impressive Track Record
Proofreading and translation
sextosentido Design & COVER PHOTO
Karla Ríos, Víctor Ortega, Asbed Levi. Photography Alumni contact
Virginia Watkins vwatkins@jfk .edu.mx
COVER
ST
Advertising Sales
Karla Rios Ph. (442) 218 0075 ext. 1010 krios@jfk.edu.mx CLASS '04
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JFK Sports
Player, Captain, Coach Learn Dante's inspiring life story
SPORTS
A Tournament to Remember
FEATURE STORY
SPORTS
To facilitate the balanced development of our students; with commitment and respect for the local community and a multicultural world.
AT THE HEART OF THE KENNEDY EXPERIENCE
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Dear Readers Our school has always been a great place to build community. Sports are a fantastic way to feel that sense of belonging and share the enthusiasm for being a Jaguar within our grand JFK family. asomex tournaments have been a tradition at our school. Last month we had a chance to host the boys and girls soccer tournament where our Middle School and High School teams gave it their best during every game. We are very proud of the girls’ championship trophy as well as the third place trophy that our boys’ team was able to add to our trophy display case in the auditorium. We all felt the tremendous positive energy that came from the cheering and clapping. This is what the sports program is all about:
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OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS BY OUR FACULTY OR STUDENTS
JFK Sports By Lucia Jiménez and Mariana Hernández Journalism Highschool
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ports are physical activities that involve rules within a given space be it a court, board, table, etc. They develop a person’s physical as well as intellectual skills. Regardless of having team or individual formations, they all strengthen our skills. At John F. Kennedy sports have been an important part of student’s development, both within and outside the school. Elementary and Middle School students are invited to participate in sports by joining the Jaguar’s team or engaging in an activity outside the school. The Jaguar’s teams include male and female football, women’s volleyball and the track team. Students are encouraged from a very young age to get involved in sports with the goal of developing their skills and being active in a healthy and educational way. And
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teachers from different areas of sports coordination urge students to achieve the best combination of a range of activities in a fun way. We had the chance to talk to Arturo Bustamante, our Sport’s Coordinator, and Cecilia Ponce, Physical Education Coordinator, about the importance of their area in John F. Kennedy School. Arturo told us how the Sports Area works toward the goal of achieving athletic as well as academic excellence, as part of the school’s Mission and Vision. The sports program within the school, and tournaments such as intramurals and asomex, take advantage of these activities as a way to improve overall performance and promote sports. He also spoke about the importance of keeping up with changes taking place in students as
The Sports Area works toward the goal of achieving athletic as well as academic excellence.
As football Coordinator I have the responsibility of guiding the work of ten coaches. I believe our coaches and PE teacher will be at the forefront of the innovations and demands required by increasingly globalized world.
Arturo Baez SOCCER COORDINATOR
RamĂłn Salce BASKETBALL COORDINATOR Sports have taught me values such as discipline, effort, order, personal growth, respect for the contender and following rules. I focus my commitment in aspects such as: developing healthy behaviors, forming positive attitudes, improving motor skills and perceptual abilities, avoiding premature specialization, prioritizing cooperation over competition, and being an educator. I believe our coaches and PE teacher will be at the forefront of the innovations and demands required by increasingly globalized world.
Sports are more than a way of developing physical endurance, self-esteem and health‌ they are a way of life! As a high performance athlete, I learned the can be my way of being, feeling and enjoying life. As football Coordinator I have the responsibility of guiding the work of ten coaches, gearing their objectives towards a common goal; ten different personalities, working with students from Preschool to High School, in an average of twenty teams competing and five forming children. The school gives full support to its coaches and coordinators. I believe all elements are here to continue being the best school in Queretaro.
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ACADEMIC CORNER
well in society in order to understand the student’s language and work with them in an interactive and current way. It was very interesting to hear him speak about the ways in which sports coordinators take into account today’s technology and how it can change the future. They know it is a challenge because it can alienate students from physical activity but they will take this opportunity to promote sports and not being left behind. Cecilia Ponce talked to us about the Physical Education area and how all activities take place within a plan carried out by professional coaches who are trained constantly. Preschool and Elementary teach a series of basic and complex skills which gradually become more demanding. In Middle School activities are geared towards developing physical endurance and abilities in certain sports. In High School the goal is to develop students’ skills looking to participate in various sports. Most 6
generations go through three different activities that allow them to reach better physical and emotional development. Sports play a very important role in the development of skills in students at John F. Kennedy and coaches work to organize activities that contribute to the fulfillment of the school’s Mission and Vision. They are an integral part of our school’s culture, bringing together students from different grades and ages so they can get to know each other better, as well as parents and students from other schools. Team work is an important factor that the school seeks to promote, which can be seen through the hard earned victories that have been reach through the efforts of students and coaches.
Sports play a very important role in the development of skills in students at John F. Kennedy and coaches work to organize activities that contribute to the fulfillment of the school’s Mission and Vision.
My commitment as a JFK sports teacher is to be a powerful influence in student’s character formation.
I consider learning how to win and how to recognize defeat, a very important value.
Cecilia Ponce PHYSICAL EDUCATION COORDINATOR Sports have great social and cultural impact in transmitting values such as respect, responsibility and commitment. I consider learning how to win and how to recognize defeat, a very important value. I am proud to be part of this great team. Teaching every day enriches me and allows me to keep growing. I believe our program should form positive people committed to society with the knowledge they need to be an integral part in the world.
Carlos López VOLLEYBALL COORDINATOR Sports have given me the opportunity to fulfill myself in my personal and professional life. My commitment as a JFK sports teacher is to be a powerful influence in student’s character formation and to help them realize what they can achieve through sports and great discipline. My vision is to consolidate the best and most complete high quality sports program.
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THE JFK SPIRIT By: Alejandra Burillo Hayde Cabrera Ă vila Laura VĂĄzquez, High School Teacher
Coaching Moms An essential part of our Sportsmanship The JFK community has distinguished itself for encouraging sportsmanship in its students. We have won many nationwide tournaments and we take great pride in these accomplishments. This could not have been possible without parents whom, through constant support, have encouraged love of sports in their children. This is specially the case for coaching moms. We interviewed Mrs. Martha Naranjo, who talked to us about her experiences.
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Why is it so important for parents to encourage their children to practice sports? It is important because it requires perseverance and commitment. When children are still young, they might not have yet developed that skill. That is why having a parent encouraging and cheering him or her to come to practice, to commit to the team, to take pride in the sport, to participate voluntarily and not as an obligation, becomes very important in a child developing a habit. In your opinion, how are physical health in children and sports related?
They are very closely related because children who constantly engage in sports have a much better development. They become less likely to get sick, especially of respiratory illnesses; in winter a child athlete will fare much better. Do you think sports also support their emotional health? Of course; practicing sports builds self esteem and character. It teaches them to work as a team and to endure frustration. When they do not win a match or when problems arise inside the team, they learn to develop their emotional intelligence.
Mother Coaches are chosen at the beginning of the school year —one for every team.
Do you notice a change in attitude when your children are engaging in sports? Yes, the difference becomes evident in summer, when they stop having a constant rhythm; the loss of activity makes them restless. They might become moody and I believe this happens because of all the extra energy they usually channel through sports. What are the benefits of engaging in sports from a very young age? First, they will develop extraordinary motor skills; second, they will grow to be healthier, stronger and taller. What do you think about intensive training? I believe it’s a matter of age; if the sport is appropriate to a certain age, even if training is strong, it will suit them fine. I do not
We are responsible for things working as they should, because it is our task to convene the team.
agree with strength training, though. Carrying great amounts of weight will hinder their development or hurt them. I also believe children should feel free, engage in sports because they like them, without any foreign substances to boost their performance.
another is to make sure that they enjoy it, that they are not too pressured by it, so they can concentrate on playing and having fun, giving their best effort. Seeing their family admiring their efforts and their victories is also important.
What is your opinion on sports injuries? Risk and injuries will always be there. I believe, with adequate training, muscles become stronger limiting injuries to sprains or tears that pose minor problems. But inadequate training and insufficient preparation can generate injuries that will have lifelong repercussions.
How do you motivate your daughters to engage in sports? They are highly motivated; maybe its character or that they really like sports. I don’t need to encourage them much, because they have enjoyed it since they were little. I will cheer for them, massage them and make their meals so that they see their parents taking interest and pride in their accomplishments.
How can parents encourage love of sports in their children? I believe there are many ways to do so. One of them is their parents’ example;
Have there never been moments when they have lost interest in sports? Yes; I believe this comes with adolescence and it’s very important to respect these 9
BUILDING COMMUNITY
changes. They might not be so competitive or train as hard as they previously did, but encouraging and forcing are quite different things. If they have truly formed a habit, they will come back to in on their own. Have sports become a priority for your children? Definitely yes. Training constantly, playing matches and going to asomex tournaments is very important to them and, fortunately, this has been coupled with good academic performance. What does it mean to be a Coaching Mom? Our role is very important because we are in charge of communications between coaches and moms. There are announcements to be 10
Training constantly, playing matches and going to ASOMEX tournaments is very important to them and, fortunately, this has been coupled with good academic performance.
made and gatherings to promote. We are in charge of such things as hydration for the players, uniforms and schedules. In short, we are responsible for things working as they should, because it is our task to convene the team.
sen at the beginning of the school year —one for every team. But when they participate with a team for several years, the tasks are shared. Moms are quite participatory and in most teams there are groups of mothers backing each other up.
Have you ever encountered a mother that did not want to participate? It is not so much that they don’t want to; but that they might have several children and competitions to attend or that they work, which makes it hard for them to be there. Nevertheless, their encouragement is essential to cheer them on and support them when their spirits are down.
How is the selection done? Mom coaches are designated at the meeting held by the Sports Department at the beginning of the year to inform us about tournaments and training regulations. She will be in charge of communication, help the coach to inform about schedules, venues, last minute changes and matches canceled. She is the representative, the liaison between mothers and coach. She will also raise money to give the coach a token of appreciation at the end of the cycle.
Does every sport and team have this model? Mother Coaches are cho-
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At times it’s hard to see it this way, but I was lucky. THEY HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY
’99
Player, Captain, Coach
HS
Dante’s inspiring journey shows how the love of life and sports will help you win life’s greatest challenges By Dante Víctor Sepúlveda Mendoza
I am thirty one years old. I studied at the Kennedy most of my life. It was my father who taught me to love sports, and it was he who, along with Luis Hoyos, father of my great friend, founded the first Kennedy’s soccer team. I remember we sometimes played at half time at the Gallos Blancos’ games. We won scores of tournaments and matches but, above all, we enjoyed being together. When I left the Kennedy, the UVM offered me a sports’ scholarship, but my goal was to become a professional player and I did not accept it at the time. I played for a while in Iguala, Guerrero, but it was not what I had expected, so I returned and played 12
I studied, trained, did my fellow service and worked on weekends, at a friend’s restaurant, but I enjoyed it intensely. I was team captain...
for the second division Gallos’ team. It was then my father helped me put things in perspective. I accepted the UVM’s scholarship and began studying Production Engineering. In 2001, when I was 20, I got married and later my daughter Monica was born. Those were tough times because I studied, trained, did my fellow service and worked on weekends, at a friend’s restaurant, but I enjoyed it intensely. I was team captain, we accomplished third place nationwide and I was selected to represent our country in the World Universiade, to be held in Turkey that year. On my way to our gradua-
tion trip we had the accident that left me in this wheel chair; a friend that was by my side, regrettably died. It was a miracle that I lived. At times it’s hard to see it this way, but I was lucky. I injured cervicals C6 and C7. Doctors are surprised because people with this kind of lesion are usually not even able to move their arms. I spent two weeks in intensive care, a year in bed, and then I traveled to Cuba where I would spend seven hours every day exercising. The time spent there, helped me see things from a different perspective, to understand that I couldn’t live complaining and depressed because of what had happened to me. I learned
In life you will always face difficulties, but seeing them as challenges and opportunities, is the key.
to win, but respecting our teammates comes first. Most of us are friends. This is why I enjoy so much being the leader of such a great group. My job with this team, got me invited to direct another team in the league and, later, to participate in the Liga Marista. Luis Fernando Soria, who was once my coach plays for this team… now, it is to see the positive side of my turn to coach him! things, to see the glass half Soccer is one of my greatfull —instead of the half est passions and I’ve never empty one—, to enjoy life. Soon after, I decided to get lost contact with it. It was on with my life. I was offered very hard to find myself, suddenly, unable to play, but an opportunity at Vision Consulting, a software devel- I’ve learned to enjoy it in a opment company, where they different way. Every Saturday and Sunday I happily get up have treated me well and I and I’m always the first to feel very good working. arrive because it really makes A couple of years later, my friend Luis Hoyos invited me me happy. In life you will always face to join a team where almost difficulties, but seeing them everyone was a Kennedy as challenges and opportunialumni; I started directing. ties, is the key. Never give up, A year after, I was invited always give it all. to manage one of the most Without a doubt, people prestigious teams in one of close to me have given me Queretaro’s most important the support and the encouramateur franchises, Const. García Vargas… better known agement I’ve needed to succeed. Mi daughter, above as The Lemons, because of all, is my pillar. She is the our striking green uniform. reason I wake up every mornI’ve spent now four years ing to fight and get ahead. with a responsibility that I love watching her grow goes beyond telling players and become a great person. where to place themselves, and includes knowledge such My mother and sister have always stood by my side, as how to manage people, helping me, staying awake, emotions and situations. By and by we are getting better; and caring for me through the tough times. My friends we are strengthening our have never let me fall down discipline and commitment. (emotionally); they have supI constantly remind the team that we are here to play, ported, cheered me, and have been with me through thick to have fun, to do what we and thin. I thank them all. like. We will obviously aim 13
A FOCUS ON OUR STAFF
Our Comprehensive Physical Development Program By: Mirtha Stappung Ruff General Director
We have a great commitment and responsibility to provide the best possible educational options and programs for our students. Our Physical Education Department (DFI) was created many years ago to meet the physical, sports and health needs of our students. The work of physical education teachers and sports coaches is increasingly important in the overall education of students. Their programs help to develop strong bodies and minds, instilling values and help to develop important skills needed for success in our world. 14
For this reason, the school strongly believes in keeping in the forefront of educational innovation and the provision of continuous professional growth training for our faculty. We provide comprehensive training to our athletes, while placing emphasis upon enjoyment of physical activity and companionship to others, while giving their best in every game. Our “Jaguars" have a welldeserved reputation for their advanced level of sportsmanship in competitive games. Winning at all costs has not been, nor will ever be, the ob-
Our “Jaguars" have a welldeserved reputation for their advanced level of sportsmanship in competitive games.
jective of our involvement in athletic events. Our motto is "Do your best, be your best". This phrase is lived daily in practice and in tournaments. Of course we also seek the glory of winning a match or a tournament and celebrate the triumphs. Interaction and engagement with others through movement has been around since the origins of man. These days it is has evolved almost into a science. It is a discipline that encompasses sophisticated concepts and is increasingly contributing to a better quality of life for those who are involved - in
Our motto is "Do your best, be your best". This phrase is lived daily in practice and in tournaments.
this case are our students and their families. Physical education and sports activities help to maintain a balance between the biological, psychological and social development in students as they adapt to life and its processes. What could be more important than this to contribute to the health and welfare of the person?We provide physical education activities for students of all ages, from pre-school to 12th grade. Passion and enthusiasm are present in all students to represent the school and its teams. Teachers and coaches
Physical education and sports activities help to maintain a balance between the biological, psychological and social development in students.
spend many hours a day with students; to develop sports skills and promote healthy lifestyles.Some important contributions of physical education is to teach collaborative skills, achieving goals, and teamwork. As part of that process, sports activities develop the qualities of will, educates students in the spirit of competition, respect for opponents, teammates and themselves, and to respect the rules of competition. Motivation also plays an important role in learning to achieve a goal. This may involve achievements in sports, aesthetics, health
areas, or social and emotional development. Sports activities encourage our youth to participate in physical activities and interaction with others. The content of our programs mentioned above support balanced growth, a healthy body and mind, and values and attitudes that follow our students throughout life. Sports experiences at JFK provide a huge opportunity for personal growth and development of young people; helping to build self-esteem and self-confidence, improving fitness and strengthen their health and quality of life. 15
SPORTS PROVIDING SUPPORT FOR OUR MODEL OF EDUCATION
A Tournament to Remember
By: Mónica Duarte
From March 1 to 4, we were delighted to sponsor the asomex Tournament of football soccer, Categories Juvenile “B” Boys and Girls (students from 8th and 9th grades). asomex (Association of American Schools in Mexico), is the organization which unites the entire American schools in our country and organizes different sports competitions every year. Its goal is to pro16
mote healthy living among students of different states from the Mexican Republic. It was an event organized with excellence, by the Physical Integral Development Athletic Department at JFK, which we will remember with fondness and pride for the sportsmanship shown by all participants, for the football quality and for having gathered, after several years, 13 asomex schools from different states of the
Mexican Republic. Among hurrahs and cheers from students, teachers and parents, the JFK campus became a party during the Tournament. 400 athletes, plus friends and families, enjoyed four days of intense soccer activity. As in every tournament, a trophy is given for “Sportsmanship”, this year the Colegio Columbia in Tampico, received the trophy for both boys and girls categories.
Girls’ team was the champion. Congratulations Girls!
Boys’ team won third place
Watch the video!
http://goo.gl/gIIYJ Our Jaguars showed their JFK spirit and left us with a very good impression. Boys’ team won third place and the Girls’ team was the champion. Congratulations Girls! Both host and visiting teams were happy and look forward to meet again in Querétaro.
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WHAT ARE WE UP TO?
An Impressive Track Record
By Arturo Bustamante
The improvement of our sports facilities Entering our school, some of the most evident achievements of our community’s effort to continuously improve our facilities —the track, the courts and the auditorium we built together— stand proudly as visible signs of the importance we place in a healthy, integral development. Watching the Kennedy grow has been an amazing experience but, knowing that each of us has been an integral part in this growth, 18
is even more compelling. Twenty five years ago, we had the soccer field, the athletic field, two basketball and one volleyball courts. Since then, we have seen very important changes. Our soccer field is in tip top shape; it now has a header of synthetic grass where we can carry on training and PE activities. A new soccer field —also of synthetic grass— with a lighting system allows for many more matches and requires very little mainte-
Watching the Kennedy grow has been an amazing experience but, knowing that each of us has been an integral part in this growth, is even more compelling.
nance. The athletic track has been asphalted. We have a new, lighted, multipurpose court where we can have any number of training sessions regardless the time of day. A new basketball court with roofed bleachers is used for a wide variety of activities, and our Auditorium —now featuring a brand new floor— is used for varied purposes that range from tae kwon do and PE classes, to alumni reunions, theater presentations and exams; its forum ad-
ditionally houses a complete gym where our students receive personalized assistance from a certified coach. To sum it all up, the attention and effort we all have invested in our sports facilities, is something we should all feel very proud of. We now have more and better spaces that are used to full capacity by a community that has made sports and physical activity a part of their life. We now face the challenge of maintaining them in perfect shape — which requires an important financial and human effort—
and to keep making our installations better. Our next goals are to light up the big soccer field, so we can host many more matches and training sessions; to build locker rooms, that will allow our students to shower and change, and to install drinking fountains that will make it easy for them to stay properly hydrated. We know that we count on all of you to make this happen and to leave your mark in our school —as we have seen committed families, students and directors do generation after generation.
Upcoming sports facilities improvements:
Light up the big soccer field Build locker rooms Install drinking fountains
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SPORTS
FEATURE STORY
AT THE HEART OF THE KENNEDY EXPERIENCE
By Arturo Bustamante
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have been at the Kennedy for 18 years now. The practice of sports has always been —without a doubt— at the heart of the Kennedy experience and an integral part of our Mission. Beyond that, our sports and physical education programs have seen great improvements and will see many more in the years to come. Twenty five years ago soccer was the only activity
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in our afternoon program; basketball, volleyball and athletics came later. We had 100 students involved in very few teams. Now we have over 900 students participating in 52 teams that include cheerleading, tae kwon do, ballet —we even had chess for a while— and for preschoolers, Tee ball (based on baseball), psychomotor activities and cachibol (based on volleyball).
Twenty five years ago soccer was the only activity in our afternoon program... Now we have over 900 students participating in 52 teams.
A linked PD Program and a certified staff The most important change to our morning program along these years was linking objectives and activities from Pre-School through High-School, providing a sequence. We started by defining a graduate profile with specific physical, coordinative and behavioral capabilities to be developed. Strength, resistance and elasticity goals were established for every grade and
age to be reached, as well as coordination, knowledge about their body and health. Achieving discipline, tolerance to frustration and team work, also became part of the goals. We wanted students to learn to win and lose, as well as be able to pass down their knowledge and skills and set an example to younger generations. The second major change took place in our staff. The improvements to our faculty included the certification of all our coaches whom,
The most important change to our morning program along these years was linking objectives and activities from Pre-School through High-School, providing a sequence.
aside from having a degree in Sports Education went through a certification process by the pertaining institutions. Regarding soccer, we have been host to the National School of Professional Soccer Coaches for fourteen years now. In the early days, coaches worked in different sections and were moved around indiscriminately. Now we have full time teachers in every section, allowing for a better follow up and knowledge of each student’s progress. 21
We discovered that the key of our program should be to drive every one of our students to achieve.
They have specific goals to reach and, regardless of the area of expertise, are experts on each age group. We also have a program for afternoon sports that includes age appropriate goals, driven by coaches in two year’s stages.
Achieving discipline, tolerance to frustration and team work, also became part of the goals.
goal. This is how the old scheme where only the most skilled and proactive students get results, changes to a perspective where every student, regardless of their physical capabilities, attitudes or personality, experiences the social, emotional and physical benefits of pe. A new way of teaching This change, which implies redesigning our Looking to the future, we face a very interesting program and modifying attitudes, will surely challenge. Four years ago, in an effort to strength- take time but this new goal is, without a doubt, a en our pe teacher’s capabilities, we carried out the very important opportunity for improvement and International Physical Education International growth. It is a perspective that will also permeate Congress in our school. The main goal was to our afternoon activities to create more balance update and train our staff, but the results went teams and more well adjusted and happy students. well beyond that: we discovered a whole new perWe are proud of being responsible for having spective to teaching that made us see a need to helped to develop a culture of sports in our comchange the focus of our student’s pe education. munity. More than 650 families are involved in Last year, the Congress was based on cooperathe 52 teams that are enriched by parent’s support tive games. We had already learned the imporand participation. Soccer is our school’s strongest tance of designing classes and programs that area. We have constantly obtained first place would make every student participate… this time medals in asomex. But this is not the medal we around we discovered that the key of our program want to bring home. The medal we want to win should be to drive every one of our students to is for driving every team member to achieve his achieve. What this means is, not only having or her goal and to make all of our 1500 students everybody active, but to have everyone reach their include sports an essential part in their lives. 22
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COVER STORY
CLASS '04
A world class golfer with a world class attitude On his journey to achieving an ambitious goal —joining the PGA Tour— Santiago Quirarte tells us what drove him to get this far, and how he is aiming his next strokes to hit his mark. 24
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Santiago with his parents and brother in his HS graduation.
Becoming a world class golfer has always been your dream. Santiago, can you tell us how you achieved the goal of becoming Mexico’s best junior player? was lucky to enroll at JFK since pre-school. My parents taught me the importance of practicing sports, and at school I had the opportunity to develop this ability. I started playing tennis but at fourteen, a friend invited me to play golf. I liked it so much, that I began playing twice a month, then once a week, and soon I was playing every day after school. I’ve always liked challenges and competition. Two years after I started playing, I won the Mexican Golf Federation’s Junior National Tournament, which drove me to continue ascending. By the time my stage as a junior player was over, I’d been able to gain some important results, such as tenth place at The Junior World Championship
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Santiago in the Gira Profesional Negra Modelo 2012.
in Torrey Pines in California, as well as winning five national junior tournaments. I’m convinced that the key to achieving these wins has been a combination of persistence in training, passion for practice, a little talent, the good guidance of knowledgeable people… and the hundreds of times my mom drove me to practice!
and therefore have the opportunity to participate in NCAA Division I collegiate golf. It was very rewarding to see how golf opened the doors for me at such an important and meaningful phase in my life.
What did obtaining a sports scholarship at Indiana University, one of US’ best universities meant to you? y the time I finished High School, studying a career and playing golf at a high level at the same time, seemed almost impossible. My best option was to obtain a scholarship in a good university in the United States. Thanks to the international tournaments I played as a junior, and with my good academic and English grades, I received several offers. I decided to join Indiana University
Now that you have reached the PGA Latin America, can you tell us what were the philosophy, attitudes and values that got you there? had the opportunity of playing the PGA LA’s 2012 season. During a three month period I played 8 tournaments in six Latin American countries. Those were months full of intensity, experiences, new courses, new people and competition at a very high professional level. This circuit is the natural step to continue
I was lucky to enroll at JFK since pre-school. My parents taught me the importance of practicing sports, and at school I had the opportunity to develop this ability.
Santiago with the Indiana University team.
Santiago won the Gira Profesional Negra Modelo 2012.
climbing towards the PGA Tour. My philosophy to keep improving is making a continuous evaluation of my game, taking apart the different areas of golf, setting priorities in my weaknesses and strengths. With my coach Rafael Alarcon’s help, we work on the biggest weakness to turn them to strenghts and, once a change has set, I repeat this formula. This is how my game is constantly improving. At the same time I work on my physical and mental fitness, as well as in my short game and putt.
is a sport that doesn’t allow for much margin of error. At the same time, convincing the private sector to support and believe in high performance athletes to reach their goals has been a challenge.
During your amateur and professional life, what has been your biggest challenge? ithout a doubt, it has been competing at the highest international level and maintaining the right attitude and positive focus that allow me to improve and steadily go forward; golf
What has been your greatest satisfaction? ulfilling the goals I have set for myself, as well as winning my first tournament as a professional in August 2012. I like the feeling of winning; it’s great. It is the reward to the many hours of effort, sacrifice, and training. It’s when you realize that all the time invested is worth it; working hard pays dividends. How has JFK helped you reach your dreams? like the school’s philosophy towards the promotion of sports. As long as I fulfilled my responsibilities as a student, every step of the way, I received support in my
Santiago won a Silver Medal in Thailand..
development as a JFK gave me the golfer. When it was basis to be able necessary to miss to arrive at a classes on account great American of tournaments —which happened university and the frequently— they tools I needed helped me take to develop as early exams, turn a student and in papers upon my return or make achieve my laboratory practicdegree. es out of schedule. There was always an agreement that, as long as I took responsibility for my academic work, the school would support my participation in sporting events. We both complied. JFK gave me the basis to be able to arrive at a great American university and the tools I needed to develop as a student and achieve my degree. Many people supported me through my time at JFK; I remember Roger Gouran (RIP) with affection. A teacher well loved by all students, who taught during my last year
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in high school and who was a mentor to me. His support and guidance were very important in getting to the United States. Roger also helped me prepare for my SAT, which is an essential requirement to be accepted in the American university system. What would you recommend Kennedy students whom, like you, love sports? would recommend that they value the opportunity of being in a great institution; to take advantage to practice sports as something transcendent in their lives. In the process, they should have fun, enjoy training and competing. Whichever their life project might be, to prepare well, because talent in itself isn’t enough to drive you far. To listen to people that know and live sports, and to be humble, so they can learn from the experience and knowledge of others. I would stress that, getting involved in a sport, is in itself a magnificent lesson for life. What are your plans for the future? y main objective is to get to the PGA Tour. For now, at the end of 2013, I will be aiming to play the “Web.com Tour”, which is the previous step to the PGA Tour. I will also be competing again in the PGA LA Tour, going further down that road; I plan to arrive well prepared at those tournaments and play well, in order to take advantage of the opportunities that will allow me to take a leap.
WHAT DO THESE WORDS MEAN TO YOU? SPORTS Way of life.
STEADINESS
To make few things many times instead of many things few times.
SUCCESS
It does not come by chance; you have to work for it.
PATIENCE
Waiting while doing the right things.
DISCIPLINE
The internal voice that does not let you falter and always reminds you of your goals.
QUERETARO Home.
would like to thank the support I have received from Club de Golf Juriquilla which has backed me up from the start, as well as the State of Queretaro, Allesso-Club Car, Kenworth Bajío, Kellogg's. Also, Regency Club and El River Fitness for letting me use their facilities for training. At the start of my professional career the support I received from GMI You can follow my results and find pictures from the tournaments at the following page: http://goo.gl/qG979
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For now end of 2 , at the 01 be aimin 3, I will g to the “We play b Tour”, w .com h ich is the prev ious ste p to the P GA Tour.
Class
Notes
WHAT ARE WE DOING NOW?
Alfredo Avila
’98 HS
t riat h l e t e Born in Mexico City, Alfredo is the second child in a big family. With a lot of energy his parents decided to enter him into sports. Alfredo began swimming at the age of 7. After moving to QuerĂŠtaro at the age of 9 other sports included soccer, athletics, and tennis. National Qualifier in track and Field at the age of 12 (100m and 110 hurdles), 3rd Professional Division in Soccer at the age of 17, gave him the chance to travel to Chile to a soccer tournament representing Mexico. He played soccer as well during High School at JFK and together with a great team, brought the 1st place trophy in the asomex (97-98) and also won lideip that season. During university, Alfredo began taking up triathlon and was ranked 9th at the national level in his age group. In his 2nd year at university he focused on athletics and earned a 70% scholarship. Triathlon became the focus over the last couple of years at school where he placed 3rd and 5th in the
national rankings in his age group and was sponsored by Kelloggs and supported by the University. He earned an Industrial Engineer Bachelor degree. While doing university and being at the right place in the right moment, Alfredo had the chance to enter a TV show, Fear Factor, not only overcoming the challenges in the show, but winning. "I do believe that everyone is capable of doing the challenges, but winning is a different story. The way I have learned to handle stressful situations gave me an advantage over my competition and that I can thank to competitive sports." Alfredo is still doing triathlons while living in Ontario, Canada. He finished 5th place in a long distance triathlon (2km swim, 90km bike, 21km run) in Peterborough, Ontario with a 4:53.11 time. He is coaching and developing a competitive swim team for the 3rd season. He coaches different age groups, from 11 to 17 years old and he is very proud that he has been able to help the
I do believe that everyone is capable of doing the challenges, but winning is a different story.
kids mentally, technically and physically in accomplishing their personal goals; from becoming a provincial qualifier to get a scholarship at university. "The only way to succeed is to keep trying" is one of my favorite quotes. In sports, as a kid, you can learn important values, such as discipline, hard work, dedication, respect for yourself and one another, fairness, honesty and the list goes on and on. I totally encourage all parents to sign up their kids to a sport as the values they learn will stay forever and the way they will learn to manage stress and failure will help them to be better and more competitive in whatever they decide to do when they are adults. 29
CLASS NOTES
Rodrigo Quirarte
’10 HS
fo otball player The successful story behind Rodrigo Quirarte Cortina’s road to become one of the official kickers at the NCAA Division I University Of Central Florida (UCF) Knights. Since I can remember, I have always played soccer. As soon as I could walk, my dad taught me the basics of sports’ movement, coordination and kicking a soccer ball; I clearly recall when we spent time at our home yard hitting some targets and having ice cream as a reward! My sister Paulina (JFK class of 2002), my brother Santiago (JFK class of 2004) and myself attended school at JFK, all the way from Kindergarten to High School. So it was natural for me to understand that practicing sports was part of school life at JFK. I played soccer at JFK since kindergarten all the way to 6th grade, where I fondly remember Fernando Soria teaching me the basics of how to kick a soccer ball, up to winning 6 lideip championships. Then with the guide of great coach Oscar Díaz, I went on to play at the Atlas Academy and then got my way through the youth teams of Gallos Blancos. I came back to play for 30
the Jaguars for my last two years of high school under another incredible coach Horacio Morales, with whom we won a couple of lideip championships and the first ever asomex men’s championship in JFK’s history. After graduation, I enrolled at the University of Central Florida in Orlando to study Industrial Engineering, supported by an academic scholarship. Once there, I tried to play varsity soccer; however, the team only recruited players from local high schools and had no chance to even tryout. That’s when football, american football appeared in my life. I went to the football offices and asked about their tryouts and one month later I tried out. I was kicking in the only indoor football facility in the state of Florida (professional or collegiate level), in front of the well renowned football coach George O’Leary. That was one of the first times I kicked a football in my entire life. It
was a little different, but my soccer skills and basics I had been taught, paid off. One semester later, I got a call saying that head coach O’Leary wanted me on the team. After wearing a helmet and pads for the first time in my life, I was surely on the right track. However, after just been practicing football for a semester, I had an unfortunate accident during a practice in the 2011 preseason; a defensive player jumped trying to block my field goal and landed on my leg, breaking my tibia and fibula. I had surgery, a six-month rehabilitation process and missed the
It was natural for me to understand that practicing sports was part of school life at JFK.
Elda Esponda golfer
Now, I’m competing for the starting kicking job for the UCF Knights for the upcoming fall 2013 season. entire season; it was a very tough and frustrating period, but thanks to the help of my family, especially my mom and dad, friends and football staff, I got over that episode and went on with more strength and desire to play. Now, I’m competing for the starting kicking job for the UCF Knights for the upcoming fall 2013 season. At this point, thanks to the soccer basics I was taught at school, as well as to the life lessons learned all those years at JFK with great teachers, staff, friends and family, I am working hard to achieve new goals in my life. Go Jaguars! Go Knights!
I´d played or won but some of them had taught me so much. This marvelous game, as all the sports I´ve practiced, has taught me to be brave, patient, honest and responsible. As a result I have increased my selfconfidence and When I first moved to also learned that ...keep Querétaro in 1973, I wasn´t thoughts impact in mind very happy until I entered actions strongly, so that it´s a the JFK School. This was it is important to game and where I spent some of the develop a strategy greatest moments of my to keep self-control you must life, made my best friends and remain foenjoy it... and where I discovered and cused on each shot developed my passion for and never give up. sports, I started participating in athletVery good advice that I got ics and then Basketball for many years. from my father on this issue, We went to Oaxtepec and Monterrey that I would like to share to several times to represent our school you as a sportsman or as a and this was really awesome. parent, is to keep in mind I kept playing basketball until high that it´s a game and you must enjoy it. school at the Tecnológico de MonterAt this moment of my life rey, competing many times with their team. I also trained with the state team I´m in Santiago of Compostela, Spain studying my and represented it in some tourna7th semester of psychology, ments. planning to develop the My father´s love of golf introduced study to the field of sport me to this discipline as well. I started and labor. It's my wish that playing it at the age of 7 and this whatever drives us, we all has been with me all my life. I can´t remember now how many tournaments keep enjoying it! 31
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