Warrior Post May 2014

the

Warrior Post

Martin High School 4501 W. Pleasant Ridge Dr. Arlington, TX 76016 Volume 32, Issue 5 May 16, 2014

Senior Issue

What’s Inside?

10

Most

Seniors

Pitch Perfect

Freshman softball player pitches a perfect game

Successful Alumni Graduates share how they survived life after high school

Senior Send-off

Seniors express their fears and excitement of leaving home for college

Photo montage by Brenda Chavez-Mayo

Each year the Warrior Post compiles a list of the 10 Most Intriguing Seniors that were nominated by their teachers. We look for students who are flashy, outgoing, talented, and successful, but they haven’t had their turn in the spotlight yet. These are the kids who make Martin interesting – the ones who will make headlines in 10 years. See pages 10-11.

AVID students freshmen Taylor Allen and Rashaad Miner work on a balance challenge at a ropes course May 1 at Lamar High School. Psychology teacher Rachael Peterson’s AVID seniors were offered more than $1.5 million dollars in scholarships and grants this year. Photo by Cam Skanes

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#THROWBACK

A look back on what you may have missed

t Diagnostician Bev Jordan celebrates with school psychologist Bill Nichols at the Martin retirement ceremony May 8. Nichols will be retiring at the end of the year. Seven teachers were honored at this reception. Photo by Hannah-Beth Floyd

t Teacher Brian Crawford participates in Quidditch practice May 7. The next Quidditch match is a students vs faculty match May 23. Photo by Jake Justice

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Senior Emily Slagle received the Special Olympics Unified Partner award at the Special Olympics opening ceremony April 11. Slagle committed April 21 to play basketball at Dartmouth University on an academic scholarship. Photo by Daniel Regalado

Senior Marissa Pinela works on her piece in Stacy Kouba’s AP Art class. The artists had to demonstrate mastery in both depth and breadth of their artwork. The AP Art test was held May 9. Photo by Jake Justice

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In the April Warrior Post story “Something to harp about,” the article stated that sophocorrection& more Kaitlyn Stafki is Martin’s first harpist. In fact, Mame Hutchinson, who graduated in was also a harpist for Martin orchestra. clarification 1995 The Warrior Post staff apologizes for the inconvenience.

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Most likely to succeed

Martin alumni tell their stories of success Kyle Desrosiers • Reporter

Is all the hard work and effort worth it? The two-a-days in football. Rehearsals until 10 o’clock every night. Midnight cramming sessions before finals.

Sometimes the pressures of high school can be overwhelming, not to mention the struggles and responsibilities outside of school. Skip forward 10 years, after the tests, performances and games. What do you want to be known for? Many Martin High School grads have made it big in the world. They too have been through struggles and hard times, but have persevered, and achieved their goals.

Ben Grogan kicks the extra point at the OSU- Kansas State game Oct. 5, 2013.

Grogan went 4-of-5 on field goal tries.

(Photo courtesy of Gina Mizell, Oklahoma State Beat)

2012 alumnus Will Ganss delivers the news on air at Good Morning America in March 2014. (Courtesy of Will Ganss, Good Morning America)

The broadcaster

Will Ganss, a 2012 graduate of Martin, currently works as the Associate Segment Producer at Good Morning America in New York. He attended Fordham University in the Bronx, and began working at Fox 4. Ganss started as an intern at Good Morning America last spring, and has been on air several times.

His job entails finding a story, pitching that story, and booking guests. At Martin, Ganss was a student body president, and participated in leadership, show choir, chorale and theatre.

“All the teachers and students at Martin were so helpful and encouraging,” Ganss said. “That’s what sets us apart.”

His advice for current students going through trying times: “Don’t set limits.

Things will fall into place. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Make your own opportunities.”

The environmentalist

Matthew Tejada, a 1997 graduate of Martin, works in the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). He majored in English at the University of Texas and received his Masters degree in Russian and Eastern European Studies at Oxford University.

While at Martin, he joined choir and theatre and said he always had a desire to

see the world.

In his position at the EPA, Tejada’s committee helps lower-income communities with environmental problems.

“We want every kid in America to be able to have clean parks to play in and clean rivers to fish in.” Tejada said. “Every day I can wake up and know that I am able to make a difference in a lot of lives.”

Tejada spent two years in the Peace Corps in Bulgaria after college, where he taught English at a high school.

“Serving in the Peace Corps is a lifechanging opportunity that no other country offers its citizens,” Tejada said. “Go abroad and do good for your country and your world.”

His advice for high school students: “Take it easy. Try new things. There’s no reason to try to hurry life up.”

pay off eventually,” Grogan said. “My work ethic led me to success.”

Although Grogan was a three-star prospect, the number nine high school kicker in the nation (Rivals.com), and held offers from Kansas, Kansas State, Memphis and OSU, Grogan credits his success to remaining humble.

“I try not to become satisfied with what I’ve done because I want to continue to improve,” Grogan said. “I am happy with my accomplishments, but I also remember that I still need to keep working hard and putting in effort so I don’t lose what I’ve worked toward.”

His advice for Martin athletes: “Always be respectful of your coaches. They want to help you. Always work hard even when they aren’t watching.”

The Lincoln Center manager

The kicker

Ben Grogan, who graduated from Martin in 2013, currently starts as a kicker for Oklahoma State University. At Martin, when the football team needed a kicker, they asked those who had played soccer.

Grogan tried out and turned out to have a talent, so he stuck with it.

For Grogan, offseason workouts were the hardest part of football at Martin.

“I knew that anything that hard would

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Nellie Kuh, 2003 graduate, is currently the Manager of Sponsorship and Corporate Relations at the Lincoln Center for Performing Arts in New York.

At Martin, she participated in marching and concert bands, as well as crew for musicals. She said she enjoyed presenting abridged versions of novels in English with groups and spending time with friends in band.

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“I’ve always had an interest in music,” Kuh said. “When I went to college, I never thought that I’d consistently have music and the arts in my life.”

After majoring in Film Studies at Boston College, Kuh pursued a position at the Lincoln Center. After six trying months of unemployment, Kuh landed a position as an assistant to the fundraising team, and worked up to manager.

Her job consists of organizing fundraisers and getting sponsors, in order to host events, such as the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra.

Kuh’s advice for Martin students wanting a similar route to success: “Never take another person for granted. Be realistic about your goals. It’s an annoyingly long and steep road to get where you want, but if you grin and bear it, you’ll get there.”

They didn’t return our calls, but...

• Blake Mycoskie, founder of TOMS Shoes graduated from Martin in 1994.

• Pentatonix, an a capella group, has three members who graduated from Martin in 2010 and 2011, and won first place on The Sing-Off in 2011.

• Jamie Beck, a Martin graduate of 2001 works as a fashion photographer in New York City and owns Ann Street Studio.

The beginning of the end Advice, triumphs and regrets of senior year

Cailynd Barnes & Cam Skanes • Reporters Preparing for senior year is difficult unless you know how to conquer the difficulties and obstacles thrown your way.

Advice from experienced seniors and teachers may relieve some of the stress and help you have a more successful senior year.

“Senioritis. You see the finishiline, you’re nearing it, and you begin to cruise too soon.”

• Algebra teacher Silas Robinson “I regret that I didn’t get close enough to the people in my grade.”

• senior Alyssa Welch

“You have to keep your grades up all of high school because they will affect your GPA senior year, which can determine whether or not you get into a college. Socially, it’s an easy year. As long as you stick with the people you

know won’t betray you, you’ll do just fine.”

• senior Noelle Turner.

“My advice is to get involved in as much as possible senior year. You only get one chance, and no other year amounts to senior year.”

• Technology Applications teacher LezLee Williams

The 2013/2014 Martin Student Council Officers want to wish the Class of 2014 a Great Graduation and a Glorious Future !

Go Warriors! features

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“The most important thing to prepare for is the rest of your life.”

• senior Damion Granada “Don’t let senoritis kick in early. You only get to live your senior year once, and it goes by really fast. Once it’s over, you can’t go back and fix your mistakes.”

• senior Austin Hernandez

“I regret waiting too long to visit potential colleges.”

• senior Austin Hamilton

The only thing to

fear...

art by Rachel Tyler

Seniors will miss the comforts of home Emily Gray • Reporter had a class to better prepare us for college,” Being a senior comes with an itch to get out of here.

To fulfill the craving, many of us are moving out as soon as we flip the tassel. Out of state and hours away we go!

Senior Merritt Prince is going to the University of Arkansas, about five and half hours away.

“What I think I’m going to miss the most is my mom making me a cup of coffee every morning when I wake up,” Prince said.

“I am not very nervous about college because I have had some really good teachers. Also, the people I have met and made relationships with have made me a better person. I feel ready to go.”

Prince said she thinks there should be a course to help write college essays and apply for scholarships.

“I just think it would be really cool if we

“I have had a job since the day I turned 16,” Collin Seelye said.

“Since then I have become very independent, so I have learned how to be self-sufficient over the years.”

Seelye has to worry about paying for schooling and keeping his grades up.

“I will probably work at a tire shop or some sort of car garage,” Seelye said. “I have learned how to develop good study habits and note taking, also how to work efficiently on a deadline.”

Senior Christina Gonzales will be attending school across the state in Lubbock, Texas.

“Because Texas Tech is far away, I will definitely miss the laughter that occurs daily in my family and my crazy mom,” Gonzales said. “I probably won’t be going home that often due to the long drive, but I am nervous about having to be independent.”

she said.

Senior Austin Hamilton will be attending Michigan State on a partial academic scholarship, which requires him to maintain a 3.0 grade point average.

“My biggest worries are the whole being-on-your-own thing,” Hamilton said. “I hope I can balance my free time and studying so I can keep my grades in line.”

Hamilton has an 18-hour drive to Michigan State, so his mom and dad will not be able to stop by any time they please.

“Since I’m going to be on my own, I won’t have my mom and dad there for me if I need them to help me out,” Hamilton said.

Senior Collin Seelye will be going to the University of Arkansas along with his stepbrother Dylan Seelye. They will be dealing with the struggles of leaving home together.

Fears and concerns evolve from childhood through senior year As you get older some fears may stick completely unfamiliar city without the Desy Thompson • Reporter with you, but new fears are generated. Your guidance of the people who raised them in Do you remember when you were a child and you were scared of the dark or what was under you bed? Fears may still exist, but they have changed.

“My biggest fear as a child was the monster under my bed or in my closet,” senior Skylar Franks said. “Every night I had to turn off my light and attempt to jump from my bedroom door to my bed.”

Everyone has those strange fears you can’t explain, but still frighten you.

“My strangest fear would be people crawling,” Franks said. “I have seen too many horror movies so it creeps me out.”

monsters start to become, “Will I get into college?” “Will I fail in life?” “What am I going to do with my life?”

“I’m scared to fail college,” Franks said.

“It is a lot different than high school, and I don’t feel prepared enough.”

Although many have fears about going to college and being on their own, some are ready for the challenge and experience.

“I’m not scared to be on my own because I’m excited to not depend on my parents for everything and learn some life lessons,” senior Nick Babb said.

Some seniors are afraid of living in a

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the city they lived in their whole life.

“For 18 years I’ve lived the same life,” senior Will Craig said. “Everything that has been normal to me is going away, and everything is now unfamiliar and unknown.”

Fears exist in most people. Some fears are as small as being afraid of spiders or snakes, to strange fears of people crawling, to fears of failing in college. Fears tend to change overtime to fears that affect your everyday life and progress.

“I’m afraid to be followed by a random person,” Babb said. “You never know what

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To underclassmen, Gonzales said, “I am really glad I joined clubs. I met some of my closest friends through clubs that I joined.”

Kelly Nicholas graduated from Martin High School in 2010 and has been attending college at the University of Oklahoma for the past four years.

“I was excited,” Nicholas said. “My first year away was full of new friends, new classes, and brand-new experiences. Some days it was hard adjusting to life in the dorms and being away from home, but overall my first year was great.”

Nicholas said she had a few tips on things she wishes she knew before college.

“I wish I had known how to actually study, and properly manage my time,” she said. “Make sure you invest in a good planner and learn how important time management is. I have pulled way too many allnighters.”

they have with them like weapons or anything.”

In The Gift of Fear by Gavin De Becker, he explains some eerie feelings we get are signals. De Becker says sometimes when we get that strange feeling when we catch someone looking at us, or even see a person standing near by, it is your fear giving you a signal that you may not be safe. He explains how many times people feel as they are being rude, so they let that strange person ride the elevator with you or help you carry your bags, but sometimes “being rude” will save your life. Certain fears can save you from danger, and other fears will slowly die out with time.

Out-of-here state of mind

art by Rachel Tyler

Seniors tell us about why they are going out of state for college

Natalie Buongiorno • News Editor Gabriel Kenworthy, Foothill College in San Francisco, CA

Why are you leaving Texas?

“There are a lot of hook-ups in California for computer science, like Silicon Valley.

People there are always looking for the next big app idea and the next big website idea. Overall it will work out best for my major.”

What are you going to miss the most about Texas?

“I’m really going to miss my friends and how open Texas is. It’s not heavily crowded and it’s kind of a serene place.”

What new things are you excited about experiencing?

“I’m excited to move out and live on my own. I want to experience not depending on my parents. You need to go out and do things for yourself.”

Sydney Cerza, University of Oklahoma in Norman, OK

Why are you leaving Texas?

“My sister went there and she’s graduating this year, and I just fell in love with the campus.”

What are you going to miss the most about Texas?

“I’m going to miss Texas itself. It’s so big.

Norman is great, but Oklahoma is pretty boring. I’m going to miss the big cities.”

What new things are you excited about experiencing?

“In college itself, I’m excited about learning things that I actually want to learn and not just having to do what they tell me. I’m just excited for a change in scenery.”

Tiana Wyrick, The University of the Arts in Philadelphia, PA

Why are you leaving Texas?

“Texas doesn’t really have art schools and up north there are a lot. I’m also tired of living in Texas. I’m used to moving a lot.

When I was young I used to move every year. Arlington is the first place I’ve stayed for more than a year.”

What are you going to miss the most about Texas?

“I’m going to miss being closer to family.

There aren’t many people up there that I know.”

What new things are you excited about experiencing?

“I’m looking forward to meeting people who appreciate art. All I want is to be surrounded by art people and to see what it’s like to live in the city.”

Quinn Greenwood, Brigham Young University in Provo, UT

Why are you leaving Texas?

“I want to learn how to live on my own without my parents. I also want to start a new world and meet new people.”

What are you going to miss the most about Texas?

“I’m going to miss the southern accents, my friends and the Texas Rangers.”

What new things are you excited about experiencing?

“I’m pumped to go to BYU! I am excited to spend time with other members of my faith, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I am also excited to visit my cousins who live there. I am so pumped that I signed up for summer classes that start June 23.”

Zombies 101

Staying local College doesn’t have to be miles away. Here’s what the University of Texas at Arlington has to offer.

The Rec center holds a fitness class dedicated to surviving the apocalypse.

The class includes Survival Fitness, Martial Arts, and tips on building a bug out bag.

Hannah-Beth Floyd • Designer UTA was named

“Best in the West”

by The Princeton Review in its 2014 Best Colleges: Region by Region list.

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Price for a degree from TCC and UTA to students who complete 24 dual credit hours during their junior and senior years.

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$10,000

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There are national and local Greek organizations with four governing Councils. At almost three percent of the UT Arlington student population, fraternity and sorority members hold a variety of leadership positions throughout the campus community.

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“If you ain’t talkin’ money, how to manage your money after I don’t wanna talk” Learn you leave home – or before Morgan Mcksymick • Features Editor Our senior year is coming to an end and many students will be going off to college. The older we get, the less likely our parents are to pay for certain things such as phone bills, car insurance, or maybe even an allowance. Many are already paying for things on their own. And the most important way to manage your money is to make a budget.

Make a plan for your payments.

Usually when you have income, you’re getting paid every two weeks. So for example, if you have a car insurance payment due each month, and it’s $150, hold back $75 from each paycheck.

Never let your bank account get too low. Always make sure you have enough money for emergencies, like running out of gas.

Ways to budget Save as much money as you can. Maybe you get paid a little extra than usual one week, or maybe you get birthday money.

Just because you have extra money, doesn’t mean it needs to burn a hole in your pocket. Save it. It’s worth it.

Stay away from credit cards.

It’s really easy to abuse them.

Credit cards are basically “buy now, pay later” and when that credit card bill comes around and you don’t have enough money, it’s really easy to slip into debt.

Separate your wants from your needs. Give yourself an allowance for things you want, and things you need. Needs should always come before wants.

Gas, food, groceries, etc. are all needs and those are things you’ll always want to have enough money for.

Don’t always buy the most expensive brands. Look for deals.

Just because it isn’t the name brand and the most expensive doesn’t mean the quality of the product isn’t as good. It’s just a better deal and it’s saving you money in the long run.

Want to know how much you need to earn to be able to afford things? Scan the QR code to determine your cost of living.

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Art by Rachel Tyler

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Seniors share hopes and aspirations Olivia Viscuso • Reporter

Whether we accept it or not, all of us will eventually die. One day, our lives will be over. But we have hundreds of millions of minutes, a seemingly endless number of moments to spend living our lives to the fullest. From career paths to innovations to bucket lists to dreams, everyone has a different perspective on the future, a different goal for their life.

“I want to become a music teacher so that I can help kids be as passionate about music as I am and teach them to live life through music. If I could do anything, I would teach a symphony orchestra.”

•senior Clayton Hebbe “One goal I have is to serve a full-time Christian mission so I can spread the gospel, help people and just be a good servant of God. If I could do anything, though, I would want to star at a humongous rock concert, because I really love music.”

•senior Ryan Kelly

“I want to be able to make a significant contribution to the scientific community.

I’m pursuing archaeology in college, so if I could do anything, I would be in charge of a dig site in China, because there are so many new discoveries there.”

•senior James Hall

“I want to

be remembered for being determined, standing up for what I believe in, and for being a good leader. I also want to become an officer in the Marines, and travel the world. If I could do anything, I would take a year and live in the woods, just living off the land. I would love to get back to nature.”

•senior Sadie Scott-Martinson

“I want to become a nurse so that I can help people and make a difference in their lives.

Also, I would like to see a female president in our future.”

•senior Jason Estep

“I want to be involved in national politics, maybe even as the president or something like that. I’d like to see the national poverty rate go down, and the progressive tax rate to be cut. I’m also into philanthropy, and I really just would like to be remembered as a compassionate and charitable person.”

•senior Payton Sanders

Living the dream

Seniors share their fabulous summer plans for getting a jump start on life Maddy Cope • Entertainment Editor “I auditioned for a theater company called SummerStock Austin a couple of weeks ago. I received an email from them stating I was selected to be a part of it. We will be putting on three musicals and I’ll be living in Austin with my sister for five weeks this summer.”

•senior Susannah Metzger

Affordable Beginner Strings

“I’m happy to announce my summer will consist of moving in my first apartment with my fiancé. The fun part is going to be designing everything together.”

•senior Page Landers

2425 W.Arkansas Ln. Pantego

abstrings@yahoo.com

“I’m going to Europe and New York this summer.”

• senior Katelyn Harbert

Check out our step up rental instruments!

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“I’ll be attending SFA in July for summer school, and to start off my football journey with them.”

•senior Jordan Vaughn “Most people know I moved here from Dubai at a very young age, and every summer I return there to visit relatives and travel. This summer I will be traveling all around the Middle East and Europe. In case anyone was wondering what it’s like there, it’s like California and New York had a baby.”

•senior Aya Ayyash “As of right now my band Vita Versus and I are leaving this summer to record a full-length album in Florida.”

•senior Tristan Lester

Throwing it back

Freshman Year 2010-2011

Junior Year 2012-2013

• 30 year celebration (September) • Hurricane Sandy (October) • Obama gets re-elected for a second Presidential term (November) • Martin raised more than $15,000 for pediatric colon cancer research with Lib Dub (November) • Sandy Hook Shooting (December) • Bring your own technology (BYOT) is implemented ( January) • Last grade level for TAKS (2013) • The Boston Marathon bombing (April)

• Last Homecoming Hall (October) • The first school-wide Lip Dub (November) • Four consecutive days of snow closures (February) • Prince William marries Kate Middleton at Westminster Abbey (April) • U.S. commandos kill Osama bin Laden in Pakistan raid (May)

Sophomore Year 2011-2012

Senior Year 2013-2014

• Apple founder Steve Jobs dies of cancer at 56 (October) • Penn State Scandal (November) • Pentatonix wins The Sing Off (December) • Third round of football playoffs, Warriors beat Trinity.

(December) • Trayvon Martin shooting and controversy (February) • School caught on fire (February) • Tornado lockdown and clean up (April)

• Fundancers have a dress code (October) • The Federal Government shuts down (October) • Graduation plan changes for upcoming years (February) • Varsity baseball makes it to playoffs and becomes bidistrict champions (April) • Voting for bonds for more facilities to be built in Arlington School District passes (May)

compiled by Kaitlyn Rosenbaum & Madeline Rusin • Reporters art by Rachel Tyler

Childhood memories

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Take a blast from the past and remember your favorite childhood characters, memories and hobbies

Research by Tupelo Witte • Reporter

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Most 10 Amy Lee

Jarred Osterman• Designer Why do you think you’re intriguing?

Cooking. I started three years ago by cooking for myself.

What are your plans after high school?

I am going to culinary school in New York City.

What impact do you hope you left on Martin?

When I came two years ago from Korea, it was my first foreign country and I met really good people here.

Where is your favorite place to go?

Miami because it was so pretty.

I went a year and a half ago. I really want to go back.

What are you going to miss the most from high school?

I’m nervous to be far from home.

I will definitely miss my teachers and friends.

Mary-Katherine Raplinger Abby Bishop• Editor-in-Chief

What are your plans for after high school?

This summer I will be touring with a drum and bugle corps.

They’re the Cadets from Pennsylvania, and I’ll be a conductor for them.

What is the strangest dream/ nightmare you’ve had?

The other day I had a dream the Cadets were rehearsing in my backyard and a bird pooped on me.

Who has influenced you?

My band director, Mr. [David] Carbone. I wouldn’t have gone into Music Education if it weren’t for him and him giving us a real experience with music as an art.

Seniors Jake Reeves Tyler Forde• Reporter

Ahmonza Gwynn Michaelann Durden• Reporter

Why do you think you’re intriguing?

I like to help people and I’m the football manager.

What are you going to miss the most about high school?

Football and my friends.

What fictional character is most like you and why?

No Face from Spirited Away, because I like eating and I would give you a hug.

What are your plans after high school?

I want to do things like animations, movies and games.

What is one thing that you never leave your home without?

I take my skin. You can’t leave that laying around.

Where is your favorite place to go?

Anywhere that’s quiet with no people.

Where did you get your name?

Ironically it means “freedom,” which is one of few things I still value.

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Ariel Hernandez• Opinions Editor

What is your biggest fear?

Losing my hands or sight.

What are your plans after high school?

I want to go to TCC then come back and be an aide for my ABLE teacher.

What impact do you hope to leave on Martin?

I want to show people that special education kids can do anything they believe they can.

Like if you can’t play football, be a manager so you can still be on the team.

Allison Chin Why do you think you’re intriguing?

I make up all these fantasy worlds within my drawings. I walk in the halls holding my artwork and people will come up to me and ask me questions and I get to explain my worlds to them.

What object describes you the best?

A pirate flag because I was given the nickname Jake the Pirate from the football team and coaches.

What is something you never leave you house without?

Probably my flute or sheet music. There’s always something I’m practicing.

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Photos by Brenda Chavez-Mayo & Lizzie Kirkham • Photo Editors

What is your favorite place?

Malaysia because it has all the landscapes. It has mountains, beaches, cities, street markets, everything.

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Julianne Bergen Erin Hibbs• News Editor

hat are your plans after high hool? m going to UNT to study art theraand art education and hope to get Disney internship in hopes to work an art therapist at a hospital.

hat impact do you hope you left n Martin? was a pit squad leader in drum e this year. I got to lead freshmen d help them grow as musicians. I pe I left an impact on them and at they’d be able to share Christ rough the drumline section and eak up for their faith.

ho has inspired you? ustin Schulze has taught me that ere is a time to be serious and a me to have fun and you can do both the same time.

here is your favorite place to go? isney World. It’s a totally different ace where you can go to get our ind off things and stress at home. ried last time I was walking into agic Kingdom and I don’t even ow why.

Tanner Milner Morgan McKsymick• Features Editor

Nathan Rearick

Karon Chapa

Caleb Shannon

Ashleigh Jones• Managing Editor

Madeline Maxwell• Sports Editor

Jennifer Forsberg• Copy Editor

Why do you think you’re intriguing?

I became a personal trainer and found out that this is what I love to do. I hope that I can keep helping others not only by helping, but changing their lives.

What object describes you best?

A microphone, because I started singing a very young age. I’m a four-year Texas All-State choir member and was the first student in the district to accomplish that.

What are your plans after high school?

I’ll be going to the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor as a Music Education major with an emphasis in Special Needs Studies.

What object do you think describes you the best?

Weights, because I live in the gym. I’m there eight to nine hours a day.

Who has inspired you?

My dad. He’s my number-one man because he’s always there for me to support me and lead me in the right direction.

What fictional character is most like you and why?

The Hulk because he has muscles and he’s always slamming things, and I am too. I mean... I’m not a mad person I just like slamming things!

What are your plans after high What is one thing that you can’t school? leave home without?

I want to go to My food. I eat five times a day and UNT to get a bachdrink two gallons of water a elor’s degree in eduday. cation and masters in performance.

Who has inspired you?

I do after-school care at Green Oaks School, a school for children with special needs, and they are my inspiration. They have an outlook on life that most people don’t have and they are always smiling.

What is one thing you never leave home without?

I never leave home without my Bible. It’s always in my car. I have a short Bible study in my car before school each morning.

What object do you think describes you best?

My Bible, because I try to live a life the way Jesus did and serve others the way he does.

What are your plans after high school?

I plan on attending HardinSimmons University and pursuing a career in the medical field.

Then after college I plan on doing medical missions.

What is your spirit animal?

A honey badger, because they don’t care what anyone thinks about them.

What impact do you hope you left on Martin?

I hope my impact would be that people here would be able to grasp and know how much God loves them.

What’s the strangest dream/ nightmare you’ve had?

One time I had a nightmare that I was a woman.

Where is your favorite place to go?

This past spring break I went to Southeast Asia. It was a new experience for me and I got to share God’s word with the students there. I got to love them and speak truth into their lives.

What movie would you want to star in?

Napoleon Dynamite, because he’s so awkward. I could just see my life being like his.

Why do you think you’re intriguing?

I always try to do the right thing. In most cases that stands out.

What is one thing that you never leave home without?

I always have my drumsticks just in case someone wants to jam out.

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Friends and couples work on speaking the same

love language Aysha Moneer • Reporter

There are five recognized love languages: words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time and physical touch.

The book that introduced the concept of love languages is The Five Love Languages

by Gary Chapman.

When friends and couples understand each other’s love languages, things go smoothly. When they don’t, their efforts can be frustrating.

We interviewed a set of best friends (sophomores Michaela Lavelle and Rachel Estep) and a couple (seniors Victoria Peters and Tristan Pennywell) to see if their relationships were speaking the same language.

What is your love language?

Lavelle: “Quality time is my love language.

I always enjoy spending time with Rachel.

We always have lunch together, spend our weekends together and carpool.”

Estep: “Words of affirmation is my love language. Michaela is really good with positive sayings, which always lift me up and gets me through the day.”

Peters: “My love language is quality time and acts of service. I enjoy spending time with Tristan and appreciate what he does.”

Pennywell: “My love languages are words of affirmation and physical touch.”

Do you think your partner is aware of what your love language is?

Peters: “I think Tristan is aware of what my love languages are. He definitely caters to-

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wards them as well. He spends time with me and does things for me.”

Pennywell: “I would say that Victoria caters towards my love languages as well.”

Lavelle: “Rachel knows my love language.

If I ever need her she is there, she is aware that I like spending time with her.”

Estep: “Michaela knows what my love language is. I know that if I talk to her I will get something positive out of it. She knows how helpful she is with words of affirmation.”

What do you think your partner’s love language is?

Lavelle: “Words of affirmation. I always try and be positive, we both try and lift each other up.”

Estep: “Michaela likes and appreciates spending time and lifting up her friends’

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How do you think love langugaes play a role in the interaction within a relationship?

Lavelle: “I think love languages feed off of each other. In a friendship, everyone has their roles – who’s the one who compliments people, gives gifts, etc.”

Estep: “When you have a friend, you want to make sure they’re happy, even though everyone wants something different.”

Peters: “I think because we both like similar things, our love languages don’t clash. We are both very understanding of each other.

We both know each other’s love languages and we both do things for each other.”

Pennywell: “Our relationship works well because we understand each other’s love languages, despite the differences.”

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spirits. So probably words of affirmation or quality time. Michaela and I spend a lot of time together so we value quality time too.”

Peters: “I would think that Tristan’s love language is both quality time and physical touch. He enjoys the times we spend together, and appreciates these two languages in our relationship.”

Pennywell: “I would say Victoria’s love language is probably a combination as well. I think her love languages would be physical touch and quality time.”

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Choir ends the year

on a high note

Martin Choir’s legacy of excellence

• Martin Choir began with 32 students and now averages over 350 per year.

• TMEA performances: 1995, 2005, 2008 • ACDA performances: 1997, 2005, 2013

2013-2014 accomplishments: • All 7 choirs received all Superior ratings at UIL Concert/Sight-reading Contest • 6 All-State Choir members

•Part of the MHS Fine Arts Department Grammy Award in 2009

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Lucky T ’s Junior overalls and senior coverall patches Teri White 817-832-4358

The Warrior Post Martin High School ∙ Arlington, Texas Abby Bishop Editor-In-Chief Ashleigh Jones Managing Editor Jennifer Forsberg Copy Editor Erin Hibbs News Editor Natalie Buongiorno & Morgan McKsymick Features Editors Ariel Hernandez Opinions Editor Madeline Maxwell Sports Editor Maddy Cope Entertainment Editor Brenda Chavez-Mayo & Lizzie Kirkham Photo Editors Tucker Coble Video Editor Jarred Osterman & Hannah-Beth Floyd Designers Rachel Tyler Staff Artist Tricia Regalado Adviser Marlene Roddy Principal

Staffers: Jaycee Allen, Cailynd Barnes, Monica Boyles, Rosa Castaneda, Jazmyn Davis, Alec Delon, Kyle Desrosiers, Michaelann Durden, Garrett Elliott, Roberta Flores, Tyler Forde, Emily Gray, Lauren House, Jake Justice, Bailey Lewis, Keely May, Estefany Mendoza, Aysha Moneer, Sherilyn Morales, Kaitlyn Rosenbaum, Jenna Rowe, Madeline Rusin, Cameron Skanes, Caleb Smith, Desy Thompson, Rayan Toliver, Olivia Viscuso, Kaitlyn Whetstine, Megan Wilson, Tupelo Witte The Warrior Post is the official monthly publication of Martin High School. Opinion columns don’t represent the opinion of The Warrior Post or of Martin High School. The Warrior Post will not accept advertisements for products or services not legally available to students.

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Assassins game is important for senior unity, so don’t ruin it

Before computers, reporters used to write -30- to signify the end of their stories.

As our Warrior Post seniors end their high school journalism careers, they leave you with some parting words of wisdom.

“High school isn’t everything, so don’t get caught up in it. Enjoy it while you can. Believe me, it flies by so quickly. Like, wasn’t I just a freshman?” -Jaycee Allen

“Do stuff in love, eat waffles, dance like a dad. Trust that you are loved and that you’re worth it.” -Erin Hibbs

“Don’t be afraid to try something different than what your friends are doing. Live a little.

Prove to people that you’re worth more than just a number.” -Abby Bishop

“You can’t please everyone, just try to please yourself. Your life doesn’t end after one bad day. Stay true to what you believe in and don’t let anyone tell you you can’t do something.” -Lauren House

“There is no proof that life is meant to be serious. Always work your hardest, but never lose your sense of humor.” -Natalie Buongiorno

“You’ll soon realize that you don’t need other peoples’ opinions to be who you are.

Don’t overwhelm yourself with things that don’t matter.” -Ashleigh Jones

“Everything is delicate. Be kind and gentle, especially to yourself. Listen, listen, listen.”

-Brenda Chavez-Mayo

“Be who you are, not who you think you want to be, because at the end of the day you are the only person who believes that you are truly who you are.” -Jake Justice

“Concern yourself with not falling short of the person you could be. The best thing to avoid is negative temptations. Be a kind person to everyone.” -Maddy Cope

“None of you are higher than another. Float on for the ride, be lovely in all that you do and most of all, never forget who you are and who created you.” -Lizzie Kirkham

“Whether you have 100 friends or one friend, know who is really there for you.

Choose people who want nothing but the best for you.” -Jazmyn Davis “Stay up late watching Netflix, do something you love, blow your money on $15 lipstick, and surround yourself with people who build you up.” -Hannah-Beth Floyd “People often give up on their goals because they see how far they have to go, not how far they have come.” -Tyler Forde “Meet new friends and go on adventures.

Play the games you haven’t since you were five. Have good, clean fun and don’t let stress control your life.” -Jennifer Forsberg “Your senior year will come a lot faster than you think, so don’t waste your time thinking you can blow off. Start preparing for college before your junior year.” -Emily Gray “You are in charge of your own happiness.

Don’t search for relationships that only offer compatibility, but for people who inspire you to live your life.” -Ariel Hernandez

“Don’t regret things you can’t change. Just spread the little peace signs and say love, because there’s more to life than just high school.” -Madeline Maxwell “Be nice to people and treat them with respect even if they aren’t the same to you.

It makes you feel like a better person. And don’t lie, just tell the truth. There’s no use in liars.” -Morgan McKysmick “Expose yourself to as much as possible and always befriend people who are willing to try new things.” -Rayan Toliver “Understand that everyone has different experiences and beliefs that shape who they are. Respect this. Always keep an open mind to the people around you, even those with whom you might disagree.” -Rachel Tyler “Don’t sweat the small stuff. Choose your friends wisely. Be your own person.”

-Kaitlyn Whetstine

- compiled by Jacyee Allen

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Tyler Forde • Reporter

ssassins is a game created by high school students to make senior year a little more interesting. The game master will randomly generate a kill chain, a continuous loop of targets and assassins. Each person is assigned a target which they have to “kill” by marking them with a Sharpie. After you kill someone, you then get their target to continue the chain.

This is a game that forces students to interact with people they normally wouldn’t. Kids who normally are not involved in much now have a chance to come together with the senior class in a game. After a long 13 years in school, Assassins is a good way for seniors to wind down from schoolwork and have a good time with their classmates.

The concept of assassinating people does not sound too safe, but in this game it is harmless. In anything competitive, there are always people who take things too far.

The game is completely optional. If students think they have the potential to get injured by someone else, then they do not have to sign up. Teachers have recently been asking administrators to stop the game from being played even though they do not have much control over it. It is student-based and run for the pleasure of the students.

Assassins is something that most everyone looks forward to their senior year and banning the game from being played would most likely cause more problems than playing the game itself.

Although it is student-run, we need to do our best to keep it under control.

The game would be completely harmless if running through the halls, stealing passes, and overboard physical contact were prohibited. With this in mind, future students need to have fun but keep it calm so teachers do not have to threaten to ban Assassins.

Teacher-issued bathroom quotas prove impractical U.S. schools fall short Sherilyn Morales • Reporter When a student asks for permission to use the restroom, they typically expect a yes or no answer. Often a teacher instead responds, “Do you have a bathroom pass?”

Some teachers have introduced these bathroom passes. It is a slip, or slips, of paper handed out to students at the beginning of each six weeks or semester, giving them a certain number of times they are allowed to use the restroom in that time.

If, for example, they are given two per six weeks, once they’ve used up both of these opportunities, they are no longer allowed to go to the restroom in that class until the next six weeks when they receive more.

Why have these? Most teachers use them to prevent students from asking to use the restroom too often, uselessly wandering around the hallways, and wasting time

away from class. While frustration with this behavior is understandable, a quota on bathroom opportunities is not the solution.

Eliminating the passes may lead students to abuse “free range” over bathroom trips, but keeping them isn’t doing much either.

Some of these students are 17 or 18 years old and will be expected to make huge life decisions in a month or a year: college admissions, living on their own, paying their own bills and buying their own things.

How can we teach them to be independent and “grown up” if we can’t let them decide simple things for themselves, like when they can or can’t use the restroom?

Everyone has emergencies. If a student is about to vomit and runs to the bathroom, are they welcomed back to class with an “Are you okay?” Or are they instead told, “You owe a bathroom pass for that”?

There have been times in class when I have thought, “I really could use a drink of water,” or, “I can’t wait another hour to use the restroom.” Yet I hesitate to use a precious pass because I might need it later.

One time I asked to use the restroom, and the teacher said, “Why didn’t you go during passing period?” Time actually is a

factor. Having two consecutive classes on completely opposite sides of the school doesn’t allow sufficient time to stop at the restroom, wait in line, and make it to class on time. Also, our body’s actions do not always line up with the bell schedule.

If the problem is keeping children in class, which it seems to be, I still think it should be more up to the students. When we are older and working full-time jobs, no one is going to be monitoring or limiting when we take care of our personal business.

Even with bathroom passes being issued, students still spend their precious numbered opportunities wandering around the hallways. So if the passes aren’t eliminating this, then what are they doing? Not much.

There is no way to totally eliminate a teenager’s constant itching to get out of class. But instead of these passes, students should be taught responsibility and the importance of being in class. If they deem it necessary to leave to take care of business, students must be responsible for what they missed. This better reflects the real “adult world” that we will soon be part of. Telling us to act like adults but then limiting us like children does not seem to be working.

kill all the white people. How great is that?”

This did make some people upset, but what he said and what Paula Deen said aren’t that different, and if anything, what he said is worse – talking about killing or just violence in general.

Why didn’t his racial slur cause him more consequences like it did with Paula Deen?

Why didn’t he get banned from being on SNL in the future?

Although it was for comedy, he still offended people and he never apologized, but Paula Deen did. After his comment on SNL, people complained on Twitter and commented on how disrespectful it was for him to say what he did, but that was it. It never hit mainstream news. I don’t think that it is fair for him to get away with what he said, no matter what race. This could only encourage him to continue.

Only a few weeks ago, Donald Sterling, Los Angeles Clippers owner, was accused of making racist comments toward his mixedrace girlfriend. In a tape relased by TMZ, Sterling told her that he doesn’t like that she “broadcasts” that she associated with black people. He asked her to not invite them to the games and not to post pictures with them. African Americans – really, all

Americans – were extremely offended and demanded something be done. The NBA banned him for life and attempted to force him to sell the team.

I think it is fair for Donald Sterling to be fired because what he said is not right whatsoever.

But what about Jay-Z? Jay-Z has consistently been spotted wearing a Five Percent Nation necklace, often at NBA games.

Established in 1964, this organization believes that all white people are “wicked and weak” and only black people hold the power of God. To many people including me, this is very offensive, but it’s never made major news. I don’t believe it’s fair to be in an organization that encourages racism without being penalized or exposed in the news.

I want to make it clear that I’m not stating that African-Americans should be the only ones being punished for racist behavior. I believe that all races should be punished for being racist. In 2014, we as Americans like to be seen as a modern, opened-minded society, but how can we be if we are still dealing with racial discrimination? Racism won’t go away anytime soon, but it should have stronger consequences for every race.

Discrimination is wrong no matter who’s doing it

Monica Boyles • Reporter In today’s society I have noticed that there are double standards regarding race.

There are terms that certain races can’t call another race, but that race can use those terms when addressing their own race.

When white people make fun of other races or make racist comments, everyone seems to become offended.

For example, celebrity chef Paula Deen was fired from The Food Network after admitting that she used the “N” word and made other racist jokes. It was major controversial news. She was called a racist for having closed-minded views.

But imagine the other way around. Jamie Foxx’s opening monologue for Saturday Night Live was pretty edgy. As he was promoting his new movie he talked about his role, saying, “I get free, I save my wife, I

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Estefany Mendoza • Reporter The United States has always tried to be the best, and in many ways, we are. We’re one of the leading countries economically, politically and culturally. But what about our education system?

In 2012 more than 500,000 students worldwide took an international test, the Programme for International Student Assessment. American students overall ranked 17th out of the 34 OECD countries. But in math, we scored 26th out of 34, behind the leading countries of South Korea and Finland.

In the U.S., students sit in classes doing nothing, or in AP classes that stress them out more than an adult. We take tests over things we dislike or do pointless worksheets. Students drop out or stop trying because they are so uninterested.

Why not change the system?

Our education system should be semistress free, exciting and joyful. We could at least attempt to improve our school systems or adopt certain characteristics of those in other leading countries.

For example, in South Korea students wake up at 6 a.m. and return home after studying until 5 p.m., then go to a specialty school often until 2 a.m. all week.

We could possibly have a specialty school in which students actually learn what they are interested in doing as careers.

In Finland, education from daycare to university is completely free. The Finnish strive for equality and excellence. Their education system is based on constructing a publicly-funded school system without selecting, tracking, or streaming students during their basic education.

We should have a free or less expensive college education. We should stop tracking grades and ranks, and just prepare students for a major test that will determine what universities they can go to. To do this we would have to increase taxes. This would balance out since we would have more people working.

We need a strong, smart proposal and people who are passionate about changing the system. The U.S would thrive economically, socially and intellectually.

Letter to parents

Instagram bullying is still bullying

Parents pressure and put stress on their children

Stop using anonymous social networking to shame other students

Bailey Lewis • Reporter

I

n this day and age, the first thing we do as high school students when we’re in an awkward situation or bored is pick up one of our most prized possessions: our phone.

As teenagers, we tend to use social media for a more negative purpose than intended.

There have been many Instagram accounts popping up in high schools around AISD that “expose” girls and post fights.

In order to follow an account, you have to “shout them out,” or post a picture of the account to your own profile.

These accounts are simply a form of bullying (and in some cases, child pornography), but they got popular very quickly.

Overnight, one of the accounts had over a thousand followers. That means over a thousand people shouted it out so that they could see what was going on.

By shouting out this account, people contributed to the bullying. The makers of these accounts do it for attention and by acknowledging the accounts, we’re doing nothing but encouraging the behavior.

These accounts have real impacts on real people. The damage goes beyond the screens of our phones.

Many find it amusing and harmless, but they don’t put themselves in the shoes of the people that are getting “exposed” on these accounts and realize that these are actual people who are being hurt because of some childlike actions.

If we’re showing people these accounts and shouting them out, we’re part of the problem. We’re just as responsible for the bullying of these people as the account makers.

By encouraging the behavior, we are just as responsible for spreading this awful content. Instead of showing these accounts attention, let’s take a stand against them.

When you see these accounts ignore them, or say something about it being wrong.

The only way we’re going to put a stop to bullying like this is to not join in on it. If we don’t join in with the people who make the accounts, then it will no longer be a “cool” thing to do.

Roberta Flores & Megan Wilson • Reporters Today, teens complain about parents having strict rules and not giving them much opportunity to grow up. They need to experience adulthood if they want to succeed in life, but they can’t if their parents are always putting too much stress into their life.

Some parents make their kids participate in sports or run for leadership positions, even though it may add more stress to their schedule.

If you feel like your parents are pushing you too far, let them know. Start by telling them you feel overwhelmed by their high standards. That might help make them realize that they’re being too harsh.

You have to find a middle ground. You shouldn’t purposefully slack off just because you don’t want to work, but you also shouldn’t pile too many things on yourself.

Putting too much pressure on teens can

cause them to be stressed out and even develop physical symptoms like headaches and stomach pains. Also, they can become less interested in the activities they once liked and their grades can start to fall.

Some parents push their children because they want them to have a better life than what they had. It is easy to understand their situation when they were teenagers, but we should still be able to grow and learn from our mistakes.

If we don’t grow up and experience the real world, we won’t be prepared for when it comes.

Parents, talk to your child about becoming more independent. Show them in a more realistic way. Let them know that they will make mistakes, and they would soon learn and evolve to make better choices in life.

Don’t kid yourself about change

If you didn’t change in high school, do you really expect that you’ll change in college?

Rayan Toliver • Reporter As the weeks get closer and closer to graduation, talks of change keep coming up – new city, new friends, new school. You catch my drift here. Nothing but change has been on several of our minds in different ways.

A few weeks ago I overheard a conversation in the upper gym lobby between a group of friends saying how they couldn’t wait to leave Arlington and go off and do great things in this world, but one thing caught my attention in this conversation.

One of the boys in the group said he couldn’t wait to got to college so he can “finally change.”

This statement caught my attention because, why is it that you have to wait until you graduate to try new things? Will you actually change and why are you waiting until college? Why not now?

Yes, while in college you have more independence and freedom to do things you’ve

always been interested in that you couldn’t be exposed to while in high school, but some will stay in their simple bubble.

From observing the graduating class, several of the people think going to college it will be the exact same as it is now, in the sense that people will still have time for petty drama and pathetic antics.

I’m not saying everyone already in college completely changed also, but if you didn’t begin to change your ways now, when will you ever?

We’ve all heard adults say change is good.

Allow it in your lives. And I must admit, they’re right this time. Later this fall when the majority of us in college are taking on

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the real world, we should try to allow exposure in our lives.

College is like Round Two of high school except with different people.

Don’t miss out on the opportunities and meeting new people because you still have the mindset you had in high school that some may judge you or people will talk.

And if they do, let them.

Too often I hear about people saying, “Oh, I’m young. I’ll try to change when I’m older.”

But if you continue to think like that, you’ll probably never change. Have an open mindset towards anything that will probably benefit you in the long run.

Get a healthy summer body Jenna Rowe • Reporter There are plenty of things you can do that don’t take up much time, but also don’t take much money to get that summer body.

Begin by looking at your diet. Instead of going to fast food restaurants, make a healthy lunch and go to a park. It will give you an opportunity to go on a walk and do some quick workouts.

Which brings up the next point: fitness.

Toe taps are when you start in a high plank position and pull your left foot up to the

outside of your left hand and repeat with your right foot and right hand. They help workout your core, hips, glutes and upper body.

Crunches are an effective way to tone your stomach. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Curl up and forward so that your head, neck and shoulder blades lift off the floor.

The plank exercise also helps strengthen midsection, upper-body and lower-body muscles.

Planks also strengthen inner core muscles that support your joints.

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Pitch perfect

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Freshman Lacy Mann pitches during the game vs Bowie April 15. After pitching two perfect games, Mann won the VYPE DFW Player of the Week.

Freshman Lacy Mann pitches two perfect games, wins VYPE DFW player of the week Volunteers on March 21. The second was a Garrett Elliott • Reporter 15-0 defeat of the Paschal Panthers at Pas-

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xcellency, impeccability and supremacy are all synonyms for one word: perfection.

“I didn’t even realize I had a perfect game until Coach Rudy told me,” freshman pitcher Lacy Mann said.

A perfect game is a very rare feat to accomplish in softball and baseball. A perfect game is going the whole game without allowing anyone from the opposing team on base.

The last perfect game thrown in the major leagues was by Felix Hernandez of the Seattle Mariners on August 15, 2012. But nobody has ever thrown two perfect games in a career, let alone a single season. Except Lacy Mann.

“I was very surprised, it was against a really good team,” Mann said about her second perfect game.

The first was a 16-0 defeat of the Bowie

chal April 3. “[The run production] gave me some leeway and a lot more confidence as the game went on,” Mann said.

Both Paschal and Bowie made it into the playoffs, so neither were an easy win by any means.

“Having her on the mound made everyone more confident knowing she could get the job done,” senior catcher Jordyn James said.

Having such huge success her freshman year is an accomplishment almost beyond belief.

“I am very excited at what she is bringing to this team with her skill level, but more than that she is a very smart player,” head softball coach Cathy Rudy said. “Being only 14 years old, she has a lot of knowledge of the game and is very mature in how she plays. She is also a very encour-

tJunior First Baseman Anna

O’Connor congratulates Mann after an out. Mann is the first Martin softball player to pitch a perfect game.

Photos by Kaitlyn Whetstine

aging kid and she brings a new joy to the game. She is a leader on this team and that is a quality not every player is capable of at such a young age.”

To top it all off, the week of April 7 after her second perfect game and having a .800 batting average the previous week

(another rare feat in sports like softball and baseball), Mann was nominated and later won the VYPE DFW Player of the Week award, an award won by senior Myles Garrett last football season.

“I was extremely happy to just be nominated and then to win,” Mann said.

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