Knight Writers Vol. 57 Issue 2 | Robinson HS

| November, 2016| KNIGHTWRITERS 01

News Teens for haiti

Sports

Cross Country States Volleyball Playofffs Plant Hockey PLayer

homecoming recap spirit week recap

Fritter

Opinion Senior priveledges

Shawn Mendes Review Fashion Review of Trolls

Senior Check- In No Shave november

New Mascot, New Look |

Mascot inspired by gym mural

By April Ryckman Staff Writer

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xciting changes were made to this year’s homecoming pep rally, including our schools’ new mascot. The old mascot costume was a suit of traditional armor, used as a prop in an older film. The old costume was hard to move around in and was in desperate need of an upgrade.

Last year, Student Government Association planned to purchase a new costume, hoping that this new mascot costume would inspire school spirit and energy at our pep rallies, SGA sponsor Kristina Chowning took ideas from the Knight on the wall in the gym, and created a design to be custom made for our school.

“The best thing we could come up with was the mural in the gymnasium,” Chowning said. “Which has got this rock-solid of a man with big, intimidating looking face and strong muscles so that’s where it all came from. We put that together with everything on the internet we really liked.

And then a star was born.”

The mascot costume was made by a company that produces high-quality costumes. The costume was purchased with funds from the 2016 senior gift and proceeds from senior prom. Our new mascot was professionally made to be fun, mobile, and spirited. Furthermore, the knight is larger than life and has a sword and shield. This new mascot costume makes the person completely anonymous as you cannot see who is in the costume.

Keeping the identity of the knight a secret, hyped up the knight’s arrival. Seven applied to To me, being the mascot is students be the mascot and about making other people three auditioned. The happy and trying to give the student who has the school a little bit more spirit honor of wearing the new mascot costume than it has. is a secret and SGA is -- New Mascot keeping quiet on the

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photo by i. hanewicz

Mascot on point. The new mascot rallies students at the regional finals where Robinson volleyball beat Lely High School at home

on Nov. 1. The mascot was inspired by the surroundings. “The best thing we can come up was the mural in the gymnasium,” SGA sponsor Kristina Chowning said. “Which has got this rock-solid of a man with big, intimidating looking face and strong muscles so that’s where it all came from.

subject.

“I’m able to do want I want and act differently, keeping it from my friends. I like it because they have no idea, and it’s like having a secret life,” the new mascot said. “To me,

FLVS: Is it worth it?

Steens’ life, but many students choose to go to the extra ports, clubs and academics are all stressful parts of a

mile and take extra classes, whether AP or honors online.

Florida Learning Virtual School, FLVS, is an online platform to take classes to receive school credit. College and career counselor Meredith Wright provides more details about FLVS and what its benefits.

“FLVS is a way to earn course credit solely through the internet. It’s great for course makeup, other courses not offered here, and to take classes, like photography, for interest,” Wright said. “Only take extra courses online if you are doing well in your courses at school. You need to stay on top of your classes,” Many students disagree with taking extra classes not mandated by the school as they feel it is not worth the extra effort or credit.

“FLVS is pretty much a waste of time, students work hard enough as it is with their normal classes at school,” Juliana Heath (’19) said. “FLVS shouldn’t even be a gradu-

being the mascot is about making other people happy and trying to give the school a little bit more spirit than it has.”

SAVE THE DATE

By Hayle Short Staff Writer

ation requirement. Students are constantly pushed to join extracurricular and are already required to do service hours in their fee time, not to mention homework. “ While others, feel the benefits are worth the extra effort and will help their chances with college or help them get a head start on college.

“I think if you have the time and the energy to take extra classes on FLVS you definitely should because any opportunity to get ahead should be taken. Plus, with the cost of colleges nowadays you should definitely do all you can to increase scholarship opportunities.” Noah Spielberger (‘18) said.

Whether or not students decide to take FLVS classes, there are benefits to both decisions. To see about taking FLVS classes, visit FLVS.net or talk to your guidance counselor.

Nov 21-25

Thanksgiving break

Dec 3

SAT Test Day

Dec 5

Club Day

Dec 7

Winter Showcase

Dec 8

Winter Concert

Dec 10

ACT Test Day

Dec 12- 16

Exam Week

Dec 19-30

Winter Break

jan 1

Non- Student Day

02 KNIGHTWRITERS |News|November, 2016

NEWS Teens for Haiti

By Madison Flowers Editor-in-Chief

photo by m. flowers

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n Saturday, Nov. 5, the organization tainment and food for participants. “We Teens for Haiti hosted its third annual had a different activity, usually a dance Dance for Haiti at Academy of The instructor, every hour. We had lots of difHoly Names. Students had to raise $50 ferent food donated and our main event to gain entry into the eight-hour dance, is that we had a DJ come for the last two whose proceeds will hours and we had a rave,” explained Claire Casper go towards creating a [The dance] is a lot (’17). Casper serves as nutrition program in of work, so the week the director of outreach Ste- Suzanne, Haiti. for Teens for Haiti and In the past two years, leading up to the dance been involved in the Dance for Haiti raised is always very stressful, has organization since middle money to build Ste- Subut once we got there it school. Activities at the zanne a yam farm and a dance included jousting medical clinic. “We don’t was a lot of fun, in a bouncy house, yoga, want the Haitians to -- Claire Casper (‘17) swing dancing, hairdresshave to rely on us always ers, and face paint. At the giving them money. We top of every hour, all of the participants fund these projects so that over the next danced in a seven-minute song together. years they can build their economy and “It was a success for me because we raised become more self-sustainable,” described a lot of money and there were a lot of peoSamantha Verdisco (’17), who works as the design team director on the Teens for ple that showed up. I couldn’t have asked for anything better,” said Verdisco(‘17).

Haiti board. The organization hoped to “[The dance] is a lot of work, so the week raise 20,000 dollers but raised well over leading up to the dance is always very their goal. “[We raised] about 11,000 dollars over our goal, which is awesome,” said stressful, but once we got there it was a lot of fun,” said Casper(,17).

Verdisco.

The dance includes a variety of enter-

<< Senior Claire Casper has been volunteering for Teen for Haiti since middle school. <<

Senior Sophie Deannuntis jousts her opponent to the ground. Teens for Haiti third annual Dance for Haiti had a variety of activities throughout the afternoon. “My favorite activity was the jousting, that was so fun,” Deannuntis (’17) said.

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photo by m. flowers

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senior priveleges W

ith so many things to look forward to, senior year is supposed to be the best year of high school. Senior privileges are special things that only seniors get to do if they meet all the requirements.

“The seniors get the early release for lunch, they get the early release at the end of the day. Those are the ones that are on a daily basis,” senior sponsor Sandy Smith said. “For second semester they can exempt all exams but they can’t have any grade lower than a ‘C’ in any of their classes or have ISS, OSS, or ATOSS.” Seniors are also not allowed to have more than five tardy’s in a class starting second semester or they will not be allowed to exempt the exam for that class.

“Let’s say a student was late to school every day but they got to the rest of their classes on time,” Smith said. “That would mean that senior is allowed to exempt all exams except for first period because that’s the class they have more than five tardy’s in.”

Seniors who get to participate in these privileges benefit from being able to leave early for lunch and at the end of the day, giving them a few extra minutes to get

Spirit Week

By Cicilia Anderson Copy Editor

ahead of everyone else.

“The head start for dismissal is helpful but I definitely think there are ways to improve them. Katherine Kramer (‘17) said.

“However, I don’t believe the requirements are unreasonable, especially since the absences are only counting second semester.”

A lot of seniors feel as though they should be granted the privilege to leave campus for lunch and if they do not return, receive a consequence.

“I like the privilege of sitting on the patio for lunch, I think we should be able to go off campus for lunch and have a consequence of ISS or a call home if we don’t return,” Kaylee Johnson (’17) said.

For the most part, the seniors are satisfied with their privileges and the requirements in order to participate in them.

There are very few things that they would change.

“I like the privileges offered to me as a senior, it would be hard not to.” Kramer (’17) said.

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“I had a lot of fun building the bottle tank,” Diejonia Abbott, (‘17) said. “We are doing this to learn how interdependent the ecosystem is. For example, by making a species go extinct, the rest of the system is harmed.”

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH By: Emily Bowlin

By Riana Hill Contributor

colors on Wednesday. PSAT was also on y far one of the most exciting week of the school year is spirit week. This year wednesday and since seniors do not take the PSAT, they did not have to come to spirit week ran from Oct. 17-21, leading school. The ones who did come joined to that Fridays’ football game and the underclassmen and took the ophomecoming the next day. portunity to show their school spirit and “Ms. Chowning did a great job wear bright neon colors. organizing spirit week and home Throwback Thursday was a coming, it was a lot of fun,” Skyler major hit with the student body.

Swanson (’17) said, “Throwback Thursday was my The week kicked off with favorite day,” Skyler Swanson, Character day, which was (’17) said. “It’s the day I actually full of everyones favorite put effort into because it was a television characters. cool idea.”

Walking through the The students came to school halls you recognize everydressed up in their favorite one, from Lilo and Stitch to Mike Wazowski from Mondecades’ attire.Friday was the last day sters Inc. and Louise Belcher of spirit week and consisted of the from Bob’s Burgers. Character traditional class colors.

Day was a great way to start Spirit week was a major success. off spirit week and got everyMost of the student body showed one excited for homecoming. their school spirit and appreciation As the week continued, Tieby participating in the eventful days.

Dye Tuesday was next, filled “I thought it was a good week with bright colors and crazy to show your spirit, have fun and patterns. Since Homecomconnect to the rest of my class,” ings’ theme was Neon Knights, photo by j. hernandez Michael Swanson (’19) said. students dressed in bright neon

News Briefs FISHY BUSINESS By: Riana Hill

For the next 10 weeks, Sarah Sanford’s AP Environmental class will monitor beta fish in a tank made from empty soda bottles.

The students are doing this assignment to learn about how each chamber of the tank represents a part of the ecosystem and how each level depends on each other to grow.

It’s that time again from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 it’s Hispanic Heritageō Month.

Everyone in Spanish classes around Robinson High School will be celebrating the Hispanic culture.

Each day until October 15th there will be activities during lunches and afterschool.

You can even see projects of the Hispanic

culture made by students in the foreign hall and library.

“Hispanic Heritage Month is where we honor culture and traditions of people that have roots in nations of Central and South America also in the Caribbean,” Spanish teacher Senora Enedy Robles said.

Purchase a Yearbook. yearbookforever.com

November, 2016 |Opinion|KNIGHTWRITERS 03

Preparing For College Admissions Tests

Stress

By Madison Lowe Contributor tress: the silent and deadly killer.

Stress is defined as” your body’s way of responding to any kind of demand or threat” according to helpguide.org and is an issue that affects the population on a daily basis.

Stress is something can take different forms, big or small, and continues to increase in impact. According to a survey done by the apa.org, 44% of people ages 8-17 have stated that their stress levels have increased in the last 5 years.

Usually the most prominent times of stress in your life comes during your teenage years. The main forms of stress during this time include work from school, parents, disagreements or problem’s among friends, romantic relationships, substances, and younger siblings(teenhelp.org).

Now that I laid that out for you, it’s time to give you my personal take on things. Of course I’m no certified expert or anything, however, I feel like my fair share of experience regarding stress gives me the right to be called “an expert”.

Now, the biggest form of stress for me comes from procrastinating.

Procrastination is basically the act of blowing an assignment off to do something fun. Procrastinators usually wait till the last possible minute before starting their assignment, which results in a rushed assignment of sorts (totally didn’t do that on this btw). Being in a school for 10 years now, I of course had my fair share of experience with this issue. The biggest one was a project of sorts due in the 8th grade. I blew an assignment that would have taken two weeks until the very last day. Being super stressed about it, I was forced to cram in some mumbo jumbo in order to turn it in on time.

Now, I present to you the solution for stress overall. I personally don’t have valid and acceptable solution, however WebMD lists a bunch, including working out your feelings, meditating, doing something that you enjoy, and simply calming yourself.

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OPINION No Shave November

By Austin Howard Contributor t is college admissions season, and required. many Robinson students are ner“You can link your college board vous about their college entrance exaccount to your Khan Academy acams, but before you start fretting over count. Where the Khan Academy achow to prepare, talk to your college count will pull from your test scores counselor, they have all the answers. and create personalized questions to Between the school counselors and help you prepare for the next time the college counselors in the cube, you take the SAT,” Meredith Wright Robinson students have all they need said. to prepare for their SAT and ACTs. Khan Academy has quickly The steps can vary depending on become the easiest and best way to the which college admissions test stu- study. It takes your test scores and dents wish to take. But there are a few devises a study plan for you based on key things that all students should do your strengths and weaknesses. Using including taking the PSAT. paper practice tests are good, having “Taking the PSAT is a good start, it a specific study plan is better. is offered in Freshmen, Sophomore, “We are hearing a lot of good and Junior years to all of our students things about Khan Academy. That is here at Robinson. It gives you the the number one choice,” the College format of the test and gets you use to Counselors in the Cube said. the type of questions they ask,” ColRobinson students have all these lege and Career Counselor Meredith resources at their disposal, yet both Wright said. the Counselors in the Cube and ColThe PSAT is especially good for lege and Career Counselor Meredith studying for the SAT, but can also Wright said that not enough students be a good introduction to the ACT, ask about how to prepare for college considering their new resemblance admissions tests. to one another. However, taking the “Not a lot of them, but some PSAT does not guarantee a good SAT students do, but not enough,” said and ACT score, more studying is Meredith Wright after being asked how many students ask help in preparing for the SAT and ACT. The success of college admission tests may be debatable, but it is not debatable that they are necessary for admission to most four-year colleges. So do not wait to prepare and seek all the guidance and resources that Robinson has to offer.

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senior check S

enior year is hectic.

While seniors try to maintain their regular schedules, by going to class, sports, their job, and extra curricular activities, they also have the added stress of their futures.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and lose sight of the end goal.

Whether that is college, the Army, or going straight into the workforce, everyone should intend to graduate.

By Madison Flowers Editor-In-Chief

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o- Shave November is commonly celebrated at Robinson. Students of both genders refrain from shaving their bodies. Commonly, boys grow out their facial hair while girls don’t shave their legs. Personally, I am participating in NoShave November for the first time. While I could forgo shaving any body hair, I’m choosing just to not shave my legs. I’m expecting a challenge since I usually shave my legs every few days. I think that forbidding myself from shaving for an entire month will teach me to embrace my leg hair and become more comfortable with a natural part of my body.

While No- Shave November is a fun activity, people often forget the meaning.

The goal of NoShave November is to raise money for cancer research. The idea is that for a month, people will embrace the body hair that most cancer patients lose. Then, the money saved on shaving supplies, like razors and shaving cream, is donated

to cancer research. Whether students participate in No- Shave November for amusement or as a selfchallenge, it is important that they remember the real spirit of the activity. If you’re already not shaving for the month, there’s no harm in donating the extra money you saved to a good cause. To get involved with this unique platform for raising cancer awareness, you can sign up and start skipping shaving in your grooming routine, spread the news to other people, or donate directly to the non-profit that sponsors the event. You can visit the website by typing in “NoShave November” or this URL: “https://no-shave. org”.

Make sure to stay on top of your work during your last year of highschool

So, every student’s first priority should be to attend class and do their homework. It’s important to make sure your grades remain high so you’re able to accomplish your ultimate goal.

Also, try to set aside time for other activities and your social life. Your current schoolwork and future plans will seem a lot less suffocating if you spend time relaxing.

While balancing all of these

commitments, it’s imperative to prepare for your future as well.

Make sure to be aware of application deadlines and turn in your applications on time.

Although these may vary, many scholarship deadlines are in early in December so seniors should also be working on those. Seniors should plan out when all of their materials are do and ensure that they turn them in on time. Senior year is

By Madison Flowers Editor-In-Chief stressful but it doesn’t have to be terrible.

Remember that all of this preparation and work is so you can enjoy the next four years and the rest of your life.

6311 S. Lois Ave • Tampa, FL • October 2016 • Volume 57 • Issue 2 Editor-In-Chiefs Madison Flowers Morgan Cox Fritter Editor

Bianca Baum Copy Editor Cilicia Anderson Design Editor Hayle Short

Staff Reporters Mariano Heranadez Lillian Martin Anna Thomas Riley Shackowsky April Ryckman Contributors Riana Hill Madison Lowe Austin Howard Emily Bowlin Leilani Roche

Publications Adviser

Nancy Oben

Principal Robert Bhoolai Robinson High School 6311 S. Lois Ave Tampa, FL 33616 Phone: 813-272-3006 School Hours 7:33 am -3 p.m.

Population 1600 Students | 150 Staff

Policies The KnightWriters newspaper is published by the journalism department at Robinson High School.

Editorials reflect the opinion of the editorial board not necessarily that of the staff or administration.

The KnightWriters will only accept signed letters. We reserve the right of selection and editing of all letters. The letters may be deposited in room 112 or Ms. Nancy Oben’s mailbox.

04 KNIGHTWRITERS | Feature|November, 2016

FEATURE

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oining the armed forces comes with many benefits which may include the worldly experiences, educational aid, and tax free food and housing payments. Enlisted members do a lot of the hands-on work and require a high school degree. Military officers are the managers of the military and usually require a bachelor’s degree. However, many officers chose to further their education beyond that. To join the armed forces, you must have a high school diploma, pass a physical fitness exam, be an American citizen, and be at least 17 years of age. 17 year olds must have parent approval before joining the military. In addition to these requirements, each branch of the military has their own qualifications that must be met in order to serve. Before joining, it is important to meet with a local recruiter and be sure all requirements are met.

KNIGHT ARMY veteran teachers | E

very day, countless men and women put their lives on the line to protect the United States and all of its people. Some of those honorable heroes stand among us every day at Robinson High School. A number of teachers and faculty, who have formerly served, took time to give us an insight of what

photo by a. thomas

Robinson is home to many teachers who served our country

their experiences were like.

Serving in the military comes with opportunities that can’t be offered anywhere else. “I’ve gotten to bring some of my experiences from flying into the classroom,” Mr. K says.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Debosky, who formerly served in the Army Reserves, tells us, “It [serving in the military] kept me motivated to work towards a profession where I was helping people.”

The armed forces grants some amazing experiences. Many veterans do advise young people to consider joining the military. “I do recom-

world, joining the armed forces has mend it if they fully understand what it means to serve...to be put many benefits.

However, this lifestyle isn’t out of your comfort zone and put in for everyone. Serving in the miliharm’s way,” Debosky says. tary takes guts and

Serving the comes with countless country is an amazing I joined the Ohio Army deed, but it can also sacrifices. Veteran’s National Guard to help Day is more than just benefit you directly. “I pay for college.It’s a a three-day weekend. joined the Ohio Army National Guard to great experience to get “It’s a time to stop help pay for college,” out and see the world and reflect on the serMr. Smith saoid. “It’s and a great experience vice and the sacrifices that people througha great experience to to learn about discipline get out and see the out our history in the and teamwork. military have done world and a great - Mr. Smith and given to our experience to learn country,” Debosky about discipline and says. teamwork.” Whether it’s to aid the nation, get a degree,

Thank you to our veterans at Robinson and around the world! or experience cultures around the

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Military Students Move to RHS V

totally different system,” Isaiah eteran’s Day is a time for us to remember and honor Dyson (’18) said. “It was difficult to catch up to the other those who have served and those who are serving for The students.”

Trying to adapt to a United States of America. new environment can be frusThe awesome sacrifices that the American trating. “MovMoving causes a lot ing causes a lot troops make of anxiety. Just having of anxiety,” said in their daily Leah Shroeder lives to protect to make new friend (’18). “Just havthe country groups can be scary.” ing to make new shouldn’t go unLeah Shroeder (’18). noticed. Military friend groups can be scary.” families endure Robinson’s very own many difficulties as they stand Principal Boolai grew up as by their beloved soldiers.

Any military brat will be quick a part of a military family. “It to say that no two places are was very sad…you lost touch the same. Moving from one with a lot of your friends,” Boolai says. “It was also very place to another is a major transition that they are repeat- challenging because there edly forced to make. “When I were periods of time when my father was deployed.” moved here [Florda], it was a

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ByAnna Thomas Staff Writer

Though it imposes many obstacles, the military lifestyle grants kids with many rare opportunities. “I think it’s helped me prepare for future life when I have to do it myself…and experience the real world life,” Shroeder says. “And I have friends all over the country. I feel blessed…”

Principal Boolai is a prime example of the positive affects this lifestyle can have. “I don’t think I would be the person I am today without having those ex-

ByAnna Thomas Staff Writer

periences,” Bhoolai said. “For those that have parents in the military…It may be a struggle for you but you should always be proud of the commitment that your parents have made to serve this country.”

“It sure has been a journey,” Dyson says.

To those with a

parent or loved one serving in the military, on behalf of Robinson High School, thank you. We will always be proud of you and your sacrifices.

photo by a.

Thomas

November, 2016 |Feature|KNIGHTWRITERS 05

FEATURE

2016 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION I

t’s hard to argue the fact that the 2016 Presidential Campaign has been an interesting, and even a negative one.

Instead of being concerned with who is favored, Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton focus on who is being despised more.The winner of the election will not be based on who America wants, but on who America thinks they can’t have.

As the election season went on, Americans sat down in front of their television to tune into the presidential debates that took place. Many undecidphoto via party people company

ed voters were disappointed in doing so. The people didn’t hear about Trump’s foreign policy, or Clinton’s plan to better the economy. Instead, they were forced to listen to two grown adults argue, “No, you’re the puppet.”

“We need an adult in the Whitehouse,” First Lady Michelle Obama said in support of Clinton.

It goes without saying that the citizens of this nation agree. But with 30,000 workrelated e-mails on a private server, and a three minute leaked conversation about assaulting women, voters don’t know who to consider an adult, much less, Commander-in-Chief.

“Hillary is now running

ByAnna Thomas Staff Writer

against the FBI, not Donald Trump,” Rudy Giuliani, former governor of New York says.

Giuliani is right, Hillary is not running against Trump.

Both candidates are running against themselves; their own words, actions, and reputation.

“It’s about basic human decency…it’s about right and wrong,” Michelle Obama says.

Who is right? Or rather, who is more wrong?

who are students suporting?

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photo by m. Hernandez

I don’t like Trump, I don’t like Hillary. In my opinion they’re both unfit to be president.

-Julissa Vazquez(‘18)

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Trump doesn’t like black people So my dad, who’s black voted for Hillary and my mom, who’s white, supported trump because she thinks Hillary is a criminal.

-Natalia mccalla (‘20)

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06 KNIGHTWRITERS |Sports| November, 2016

sports

Girls Cross Country Uses Mistake for Motivation

By Cilicia Anderson Copy Editor magine working hard and thinking a longterm goal was accomplished just to have it taken away a few moments later.

On October 28, the girls cross country team experienced this heartbreak after a mistake was made when an alternate, who wasn’t running, was accidentally counted in the meet. They were originally told they had won sixth place and a bid to States when in reality they were in eighth.

“It was devastating,” Montana page (’17) said.

“I’m a senior and I’ve worked four years on going to States.”

The runners were extremely upset since going to States was their goal.

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“It was our goal since the summer to make it to States because our captain,every year tells the coach ‘We got to get to states,’ so it was her senior goal,” Samantha Davidson (’19) said.

Despite the fact they didn’t make states, the team is taking this as a sign to work harder and keep striving to reach their goal. They are even more motivated to do better.

“I think we’re going to work harder for it because we had that mentality that we were already going and it kind of slapped us into reality,”Davidson said. “We tried our best and we tried to make it but we just weren’t the number six team”

“At first track was hard, I’ve never ran in my life! My coach and teammates encouraged me so much and it all became easier. It was really excting going to districts and regionals.” Sophia Crassas (‘20)

Boys XC Moves on to States

M. Cox

M.cox

M.cox “I had a great season. Ran my heart out. Can’t wait for next year.”

Ethan Geiger (‘20)

M. Cox

“I’m really proud of my district champs, they showed real character. We didn’t get the results we wanted but that happens. All the girls came through at the end of the season. I’m proud of the fact that they all turned into runners.” Isabel Hanewicz (‘17)

Josiah Strong runs during a meet. The Boys team advanced to the State finals this year.

Volleyball Continues Playoff Streak

By Riley Shackowsky Staff Writer obinson Volleyball has been a staple in Robinson sports when it comes to playoff runs.

The team has made the playoffs since 2013.

“The key to making it to the final four is all based on what we do on our side of the net,” co-captain Emily Draper (‘17) said. “Making sure we go back to the fundamentals of volleyball and focusing on those parts of it in which we lack, in order to better ourselves as a player and as a team.”

There was some speculation with the leaving of head coach Christen Garcia as she was the one who had coached the team in 2013 up until last year.

“With Garcia leaving there was definitely a new dynamic in the team. Learning how to adapt to a different coach and her coaching style was a must for our girls and I feel like that chemistry was made fast due to us having had her as a club coach before so we knew her expectations,” cocaptain McKenna Tyson (’17) said.

That clearly seemed to be the case with the team, who played on November 5 in Orlando against Bishop Moore in the State semi-finals match. The winner of the match would then continue their playoff run, advancing to the States Final. Unfortunatly, Robinson lost to Bishop Moore in three sets.

They would finish the year with a 20-

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10-1 overall record with an undefeated record in districts. Though the team has no regrets.

“This year we could have beaten Bishop Moore but we let that slip through our fingers,” co-captain Laura Hill (‘17) said.

“Although it was an upsetting loss, I am and always will be proud of my team for proving we are more than the underdogs.

We are a team that other teams need to worry about. It was a great four years and I couldn’t have asked for a better team to play my last year with.”

The seniors on the volleyball team have created a legacy that will be felt by Robinson for years to come.

E. Vance

“It meant a lot because it was my senior year and every year I’ve watched our team make it to finals and I wanted to make it just as far if not further as the other years to make my senior year memorable.” Maggie McKee (‘17)

E.Vance

The Robinson volleyball team cheers with the mascot during a game. The team made it to the playoffs for the fourth year in a row.

E. Vance

“We’ve gone to states for a few years now so while it does feel like an expectation, it’s still a really amazing feeling to see all the hard work pay off.” Ashley Osiason (’18)

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Co-captain Mckenna Tyson said the team had a smooth transition to Coach Turner. “I feel like that chemistry was made fast due to us having had her as a club coach before so we knew her expectations,” McKenna Tyson (’17) said.

November, 2016 |Sports|

KNIGHTWRITERS 07

Sports

Straight Superiors for Robinson Knights Band

By Morgan Cox Editor On November 5 the Marching Knights performed at Riverview High School for their Annual Musical Performance Assessment, or MPA, receiving another Straight Superiors “We’ve been working for this moment sense June.” Katherine Davisson (’17) said.

Achieving Straight Superiors was a goal for the marching band this year.

“We are all very dedicated, I had a little anxiety because of the Starlets, but we all knew we played beautifully and that award was going to be ours.” Davisson said.

Getting four years of straight superior was what Davisson wanted sense freshman year “I had so much excitement running on the field to grab the award, it was just what I wanted, to see everyone so happy was just great,” she said.

For Dylan Keats it was his first and last time going to MPA playing in pit.

“It was really exciting getting straight superior, I was relieved I didn’t blow it,” Keats said. “Dedication, hard work and Mr. Revett all made it happen.”

M. Cox

M. Cox “It’s a really proud moment to watch all our hard work pay off. I’ve been in band sense freshman year and I wanted to get straight superior all 4 year years. Running across the field and looking at Mr. Revett made me so happy.” Katherin Davisson (‘17)

E.Vance

M. Cox

“It wasn’t a big shocker to find out we recived Straight Superior, so you could say I was pretty happy!” - Dylan Stottlar (‘17)

“We got straight superior again, I can finally die happy.” - Cody Chesser (‘17)

“I’m so thankful for spending my last year winning with my closest. They’re not just my friends, they’re family.” - Micheal Davis (’17)

Knight Joins Plant Hockey Team

By Hayle Short Design Editor

Rmissing. One Knight noticed this, and decided to obinson is home to over 15 sports but one was

do something about it.

Connor Morgan is one of the few Robinson students who joined the Plant Hockey team.

Morgan joined his first hockey team in 4th grade as a way to start a new sport.

“It looked like a fun sport to try so I stuck with it.

So far it’s good,” Morgan said. “You get to meet new people and make new friends wherever you go.”

With the season running from August to February, Morgan has considered starting a hockey team at Robinson, but encountered an issue.

“We don’t have enough people at our school to start a new team” Morgan said.

Plant’s hockey team roster includes 21 students and the team plays over twenty games with most in Ellenton, Clearwater or North Tampa.

“We do alright. We have lost 2 to 3 of our games, but usually by one or two points,” Morgan said.

Despite the rivalry between Plant and Robinson, students are coming together on the ice to share a common interest.

H. Short Connor Morgan joined his first hockey team in 4th grade as a way to start a new sport.“It looked like a fun sport to try so I stuck with it. So far its good. You get to meet new people and make new friends wherever you go. “ Morgan said.

HOW OUR SEASON WENT

“My season isnt over yet, I have states November 12th. Im excited, I made it as a freshman. I’m hoping I’ll make top 16 once I’m there.” Max Smith (‘20)

“Golf was really good this year. We had a lot of fun and we were fairly successful. We didn’t reach our ultimate goal of making it to states but we all did well and came together as team.”

Megan Purol (‘17)

“Football season is always fun.

I’m sad it ended because now we’re in competition and that’s the hard part.” Oliva Smith (’17)

E.Vance

M. Cox “My team is my family, we are united. This season we got really close. I hope the younger ones mature for next season.” Elijah Morris (‘17)

fritter

Fall Fashion By: Bianca Baum Staff Writer ith sweater weather quickly approching, Robinson students are begining to break out the newest fall fashion trends.

One staple that’s definitely carrying over from summer are chokers. Chokers are super simple and can be found in various styles.

Maroon is another trend that is reoccuring again this year. Maroon pants and sweaters are basics that are perfect for layering or adding a leather jacket on.

One major trend that’s making its way into fall fashion is jean on jean. The options are endless when it comes to styling this double denim trend. Ripped jeans are also in fashion currently.

Lastly, trenchcoats are in just in time for this fall weather. Trench coats are perfect because they’re stylish, lightweight, and easy to throw on.

W

What’s Trending

Ripped jeans are all the craze this year, and Delicia Robinson (‘18) agrees . “Ripped jeans go with everything.

They’re definitely in”.

@sparklejumpropeb*tch

Don’t choke! Fashion foward student Lujain Bashir (‘18) wears a choker almost everyday to accentuate her look. “I like chokers because they add a decorative flare to any outfit and they can dress up any casual outfit.. For example there’s diamond chokers that could make even the most casual outfit very extravagant and chic”.

@kyle.813

@kaitlynpowerr

@minh.jpg

By: Lillian Martin & Athena Crews Staff Writer and Contributer

These stylish Knights show their fall fashion trends through social media. Get some style inspiration for fall by checking out their Instagram pages!

Shawn Mendes sneak Peeks CD on Instagram By: Leilanie Roche Contributer Canadian pop singer Shawn Mendes had fans double tapping for more with his latest album Illuminate.

The album, released September 23, was previewed with clips of songs and videos on Instagram before its release.

As soon as the album came out the songs were everywhere. His songs on this album are to die for. My favorite songs on the album are “Mercy”, “Like this” and “Bad reputation”. These are some really awesome bass dropping, heartwarming, understanding, and relatable songs.

Starting from the social media platform Vine,

Shawn Mendes has climbed his way all the way to the top in just a couple of years.

He introduced to his first album “Handwritten” which was released in 2015. He left us anticipating for more. Soon, his hit single “Treat you better” founds its way to us. This number one hit single had me playing it on repeat.

Not even a month after the album came out it reached number one album on the Billboard 200 charts. I’m not surprised that Shawn has made it this far. If you have any spare time on your hands don’t hesitate to listen to his album.

Mariano's Movie Review

BY Marianno Hernandez Staff Writer As little kids we just wanted to grow up. Now that we are older all we want to do is go back to the good old times.

What’s a better way to remind you of the good old times than a movie about the notorious troll toy’s. This expedition takes place before time where two trolls are sent a journey to save their own town. Branch who is played by Justin Timberlake and Poppy who is portrayed by Anna Kendrick. Will be playing the main characters to the film.

The story takes place in an enchanted forest full of trolls, where they have never experienced true evil or have faced danger. Poppy is the leader who is always happy and cheerful. This sometimes leads Branch to get very annoyed. Out of nowhere danger finally strikes their village.

Its full of excitement to see how poppy will get her village back, and to also see how Branch will handle Poppy’s perkiness.

Will Poppy and Branch defeat the villain, or will the evil infuse the trolls and takeover?

Twist on Thanksgiving Turkey Ingredients:

1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips 36 candy corns 6 full Oreos 6 Oreos without the top cookie 6 mini Reeses 6 malt balls 1 cup of red frosting Time: 20 minutes Yield: Six turkeys

4 out of 5 stars

Recipe and Image taken from Food Network

Directions:

1. Stir the chocolate chips in a stainless steel or glass bowl over a bowl of simmering water.

2. Push five candy corns, tip- side down, into the cream of the Oreos for the turkey’s wings.

3. Dip the larger side of theReese into the melted chocolate. Place the Reese onto the Oreo, using the melted chocolate as glue.

4. Dip the malt ball into the chocolate and place it onto the Oreo, below the Reese, to make the head of the turkey.

5. Dip the flat- end of the candy corn into the chocolate and onto

the malt ball to make the turkey’s nose.

6. Put the red frosting under the malt ball to create the turkey’s gobble.

7. Repeat and refrigerate the turkeys until they are dry (about ten minutes). Push the turkeys upright into the frosting of half of an Oreo.