SMCHS Magazine Winter 2017 by Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Teamwork Leads to Historic Success

WINGS is published by the Office of Communications at SMCHS. For story ideas email the Office of Communications at pr@smhs.org or call us at 949-766-6000. You can also read more about Santa Margarita Catholic High School at www.smhs.org

PRESIDENT

CONTRIBUTORS

J. Andrew Sulick ’91

Laurie Beach, Lori Gardner, Jaimee Lieske ’08, Chris Popovec ’11 Sean Zeitler ’01

PRINCIPAL

Raymond R. Dunne ALUMNI RELATIONS

Lori Gardner EDITOR

Amanda Coronado ’98 DESIGN/PRODUCTION

Teri Beauchamp

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Robert Russell, Steve Wylie CLASS NOTES

www.smhs.org/classnote

Santa Margarita Catholic High School offers a college-preparatory education emphasizing the formation of the entire person. SMCHS strives to develop students who are people of faith, skilled lifelong learners, healthy individuals and involved citizens of our world. Students are empowered to grow spiritually, intellectually, socially and morally.

WINGS MAGAZINE

WINTER 2017

FEATURES

12 ARTS ALLIANCE SPONSORS MASTER CLASSES

Professional artists share their

expertise with SMCHS students.

14 BEYOND THE CLASSROOM Students get hands-on

experience in the medical and legal field. DEPARTMENTS 6 Around the Nest 8 Eagle Community 10 Philanthropy 16 Academics 17 Campus Ministry 18 Athletics 20 Alumni

HOMECOMING 2016 Homecoming weekend for Santa Margarita Catholic High School saw the school take a trip back in time to the 1950s. From the rally, to the football game, to the ever-popular semiformal dance, Santa Margarita’s “Grease” themed homecoming provided entertainment and fun for students, Eagle families and alumni. The rally featured skits and performances to fit the theme. On the following evening, more than 800 students gathered for the homecoming dance complete with a DJ, Grease-era live band, a photo booth and pictures with a 1967 convertible Corvette. The Feeding Frnzy food truck dished up fresh funnel cakes, corn dogs, mozzarella sticks, deep-fried Oreos and freshly-squeezed lemonade while Dolly’s Sweet Dreams Cotton Candy spun the fluffy classic made to order. Pictured right to left: Ryan Marks ’18, Dylan Field ’17 and Drew Schlingman ’18 perform at the homecoming rally. Photo by Steve Wylie Photography

STAY CONNECTED Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/smchseagles and our alumni page at facebook.com/smchs

Follow us on Twitter @SMCHSEagles and @SMCHSAlumni Join us on Instagram @santamargaritaeagles Connect with us on www.linkedin.com/in/smchs

ON THE COVER The boys water polo team celebrates the school’s first boys water polo CIF title in the school’s 29-year history. The team defeated Laguna Beach in the CIF-SS Division 2 championship game in November. Photo by Paul Rodriguez, Orange County Register/SCNG.

We love to hear from our alumni! Send us your job changes, new family additions, scholastic achievements, wedding announcements and other milestones to be printed in the class notes section of “Wings” magazine. Send us your submissions at www.smhs.org/classnote Please note: All class notes are subject to review and editing before publication. Notes are published in as timely a fashion as possible as space permits.

Eagles past, present and future came together to celebrate homecoming in October. The festivities included a tailgate party, “Grease” themed halftime show and an exciting football game. The homecoming tailgate party attracted more than 500 alumni, parents and students for the pregame celebration. The 2016 Homecoming court  L to R: Natalie Hogue ’18, Devin Walsh ’17, Gillian Wallace ’17, Maggie Jennison ’17, Claire Calcaterra ’17 and Claire Zielinski ’19.

 Joining this year’s Homecoming court were Homecoming Queen Christa Evans Walker ’97 and King Billy Newman ’97 Members of the 1996 Eagle football team reunited to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their CIF championship. Pictured below with members of the 2016 Eagle pep squad. 

LETTER FROM THE PRINCIPAL AND PRESIDENT Dear SMCHS Community, Happy New Year! With the arrival of 2017 our seniors are that much closer to the event they have been anticipating for many years, graduation which will arrive on June 2. As we enter the second semester, it is our hope and prayer that all the seniors have an outstanding last semester of their high school years! The first semester of the 2016-17 academic year was a good one. The faith life of the school is vibrant and exhibited in so many ways. From retreats and service projects to all-school liturgies, our students have many opportunities to experience the love of our Lord, Caritas Christi, from one another and to share that love with all they encounter. Academically, we saw the introduction of the first 3-D printers on campus as part of our commitment to STEM education. The robotics program continues to grow and demonstrate great success recently receiving a grant award from NASA. In the world of the arts, the first semester saw a truly amazing and thought provoking production of “Our Town” by Talon Theatre and many concerts featuring our talented singers and musicians. In the visual arts, there is newfound pride in student work with areas to display it. Their main focus is the end of January when the annual art show takes place showcasing some unbelievable talent. Athletically, the fall semester was highly successful with Trinity League championships in girls volleyball, tennis and golf with the girls volleyball team taking the CIF Division 1 title and moving on to play in the state championship game. On the boys’ side, the water polo team won the Division 2 CIF championship and the football team built on their third place finish in the league to advance to the CIF quarterfinal game. We are now in the winter sports season where Eagle excellence will continue! As I constantly tell our students, “Every Day is a Great Day to be an Eagle.” The reason behind this slogan is that we have great students, families, staff, faculty and alumni! In addition, by striving to live our charism of Caritas Christi, to be the love of Christ to our world, the Santa Margarita community’s influence reaches well beyond our campus. In this new year, we can be thankful for the blessing of being part of Santa Margarita Catholic High School. We appreciate your continued support and please always keep us in your prayers.

To All Eagles Past, Present and Future, This school is an exceptional place and I continue to be blessed and humbled to serve in this role at my alma mater. The fall has been filled with much activity and many successes, thanks be to God, in all areas of school life. I have thoroughly enjoyed the president’s coffees with our new parents and look forward to more this spring. Student feedback remains a priority. This fall, I had the opportunity to have lunch with 10 to 12 upper class students monthly. During these lunches, I am impressed with their openness regarding various areas of school life. Starting in September, we began work on a facility needs assessment which we hope will serve as a master facility plan for the next five to seven years when completed in February 2017. In the spring, we will begin work on a new five-year strategic plan for a launch of August. Academically, artistically and athletically, our students continue to impress. We are honored to have eight National Merit semifinalists from the class of 2017 – the highest number of semifinalists of any private school in Orange County. “Our Town,” the fall production from Talon Theatre, was an emotional moving masterpiece showcasing some of the finest theater students in Orange County. Boys water polo won the first CIF-Southern Section championship in the program's history under the leadership of new Head Coach Jeremy Laster. Girls volleyball also brought home a CIF-SS title and finished the year as Southern California Regional champions and ranked No. 2 nationally. Both teams are filled with amazing young men and women who are just as talented in the classroom. The fall football season was also one to remember with the Eagles finishing third in the Trinity League and making it to the second round of CIF playoffs for the first time in five years. In this year ahead, may 2017 bring you many memorable moments to cherish with family and friends. Live life to the fullest and enjoy the simple things. With the recent passing of four alumni, we are reminded that life is a precious gift and our time on this earth is limited. May they rest in the eternal peace of our loving God. Alumni, please come back to campus and reconnect with all of the memories and great people at SMCHS. We would love to see you. Happy New Year and go Eagles!

Caritas Christi, J. Andrew Sulick ’91, President Raymond R. Dunne, Principal

Your Gift Benefits Every Student, Every Day. A gift to the Eagle Fund will assist with: • Tuition assistance • Teacher development (Teacher Appreciation Fund) • Classroom enhancements and campus upgrades

Give today: ONLINE: www.smhs.org/eaglefund PHONE: EMAIL:

949-766-6080 advancement@smhs.org

AROUND THE NEST

WHAT’S NEW AT THE NEST 1

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FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: 1) Santa Margarita hosted the school’s first freshman tailgate to help kick off the football season. 2) Six new FloWater refill stations were installed on campus offering chilled, purified water to keep students, faculty and staff hydrated and healthy. The machines provide an environmentally-friendly alternative to bottled water. 3) The Lyon Hall Administration Building now bears the school name on the front of the building, a beautiful addition to the front of campus. 4) Used at professional sports arenas, new FieldTurf was installed featuring CoolPlay infill, a cork composite that makes the turf 35 degrees cooler than traditional turf systems. 5) The Rev. Frederick Miras Atentar was named the campus chaplain following Rev. Randy Sampinto’s return to the Philippines. Also originally from the Philippines, Atentar comes to SMCHS from Saint Pius X in New York and holds a master’s degree in pastoral ministry. 6) Santa Margarita’s state-of-the-art 5,800 square-foot weight room now pays tribute to the school’s rich athletic history with murals honoring the school’s most decorated alumni athletes who have gone on to play professional sports as well as the addition of the Wall of Championships, a tribute to the school’s CIF Players of the Year. 7) Thirty new international students joined the Eagle family. SMCHS is now home to 80 international students from eight countries. 8) Performing arts classrooms and offices were renovated over the summer to include new flooring and paint.

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FAMILY TIES The first annual Legacy Family Breakfast was held in November on campus in the school’s Eagle Athletic Center. Santa Margarita Catholic High School now has 19 graduates back on campus in a new role as Eagle parents. The breakfast, attended by both parents and students, was opened up in prayer by President Andy Sulick ’91. “So much of who I am was formed here and that’s what I wanted for my daughter McKenna (’18) and my boys (future eagles),” Sulick said. “There is something very magical about SM. It’s where friends become family.” Several alumni shared their memories that included Mondays off following a football victory, building their faith foundation and spending detentions picking up rocks off the football field. With deep gratitude for their Santa Margarita education, the graduates expressed how they wanted their children to have the same Santa Margarita experience they cherish and are grateful to their parents for providing. “There is no better school,” said Andrea Imlay Plater ’91, mother of Aidan ’19. “I had the best education and experience and I want that for my child as well”. Sara Brakke ’91, a staff member at Santa Margarita and mother of Tatum ’19 and Grant ’17, agreed. “What I got here was a foundation for my faith and that’s what I want for my kids,” Brakke said. 

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Sean Crafts ’92, Claire Crafts ’20, Andy Sulick ’91, McKenna Sulick ’18, Julie Savant Sulick ’93, Becky Byszewski, John Byszewski Jr. ’19, John Byszewski ’91, Aidan Platler ’19, Ava Platler (future Eagle), Andrea Imlay Platler ’91, Grant Brakke ’17, Sara Simmons Brakke ’91 and Tatum Brakke ’19.

The eighth annual Sarah DeMille 5K Memorial Run held this summer raised more than $18,000 for the scholarship fund. The run celebrates the life of Sarah DeMille ’05, who was killed in an automobile accident in 2006 while away at college. The event continues to grow with more than 300 runners and walkers participating this year. The morning also included a Future Eagle Fun Run, pancake breakfast, local vendors and opportunity prizes – all in support of the scholarship fund. This year’s winners were Sean Bryne ’18 of Laguna Niguel with a time of 18:04 and Alice Pai of Laguna Niguel with a time of 22:26. Next year’s run is scheduled for July 16, 2017. Thank you to our sponsors and underwriters: Toyota of Huntington Beach, Shulman Hodges & Bastian LLP, Russell and Lazarus APC, BSN Sports, Dr. David Grant ’94 DDS., Applied Medical, Peppinos Family Restaurants, Lake Family, Van Ruiten Family, Giuliano Associates Ultra Leadership, The Hanger Clinics, Marque Medical, Grantwood Wines, The Meal Prep, Amy Eskilson and Michelle Fry.

Sean Bryne ’18

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EAGLE COMMUNITY

Inaugural Grandparents and Special Friends Day “This day has just made my heart so happy. It makes me feel extra special.”

– Judy Silvers, Grandmother of Michael Auriemma ’18

Carleen Smith and Brian Reyes ’18

Terry and Mary Ann Gilmore and Brian Gilmore ’20 tour the ETV studios.

Santa Margarita welcomed over 260 grandparents and special friends to campus in November for the school’s inaugural Grandparents and Special Friends Day. Upon their arrival, guests had the opportunity to take a photograph with their student. They then gathered in the Moiso Family Pavilion for Mass followed by a continental breakfast. “You are role models, great advice givers and a soft place to fall for these young people,” President Andy Sulick ’91 told the special guests following Mass. “Beauty, goodness, wisdom and faith don’t fall from the sky. They require cultivation and good examples. The mentoring that you do and the consistent love that you show is vital and needed in the lives of these young students. Your grandchildren are reflections of your goodness and love.” Santa Margarita blankets were awarded to the grandparent who came the furthest – New York – and the grandparent with the most grandchildren, a tie at 22. The morning also provided students with the opportunity to show their grandparents and special friends around campus giving them an inside look into their high school experience. 

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Join the New SMCHS

Grandparents Club

Just a few things that are being planned by our lead grandparents and special friends: • Grandparents spirit section at SM football and basketball games • Invitations to all-school Masses • End of year care packages • Social outings and more Kick-off reception Friday, Jan. 27 at 5:30 p.m. Please visit: www.smhs.org/grandparents for more information and to register and RSVP for the reception.

“I really enjoyed the opportunity to be able to show my grandparents around my school. My grandparents have helped shape me to be the woman I am today and have taught me the foundation of love.” – Lauren Fisher ’19

PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT, TOP TO BOTTOM: William MacSweeney with Conor Burdian ’20. William traveled from New York to attend the event. Patricia Fiedler, grandmother of Stephanie Althof ’19, named grandparent with the most grandchildren – 22. Jack Hayden ’17, Alec Hayden ’18 and Geri Miller. Abdul-Malik McClain ’18, Pepper Boyd and Munir McClain ’19 Sam Nicolaou and Caroline Harris ’18

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PHILANTHROPY

The

LEGACY of LEE ROAD When Gordy and Gail Lee contributed to Santa Margarita Catholic High School in 1986 they had no idea that their family would one day walk the Santa Margarita campus road that was named after them. Gordy and Gail came from humble beginnings. As newlyweds, they lived in a small saltbox house in South Boston with no heat and warmed bricks placing them under their beds to keep warm at night. Gail was a product of Catholic education, Gordy a converted Catholic. Faith got them through difficult times and they always knew that someday they would give back. And give back they did to several Catholic schools and organizations. Later relocating to Orange County, Gordy dedicated himself to his business as co-founder and president of Vans. What began in a storefront in Anaheim in the late 1960s with shoes manufactured and sold directly to the public on site, has transformed into an internationallyrecognized company best known for their iconic rubber-soled casual footwear and black and white checkered slip-ons. 10 |

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Above: Gordy and Gail Lee pictured in 1986 with the original Lee’s Campus Road sign. Left: Geoff and Leah Lee pictured with their son Chris Lee ’17.

The Lees turned their success into remarkable gifts to others, a legacy that would be left for eternity. Gordy served on the Finance Council for Bishop Norman McFarland of the Diocese of Orange and was involved with establishing Orange County’s Cursillo movement, a Catholic-based Christian leadership weekend, serving as president of the local Cursillo chapter. When the opportunity presented itself, they contributed to Santa Margarita helping to establish the high school. None of their children attended Santa Margarita, but their faith and Catholic education were priorities for them. Gail made a promise that each of her children and grandchildren would

have a Catholic education. Fast forward 30 years later and now their grandson Chris attends Santa Margarita as a junior, walking the same grounds his grandparents walked and help build. Geoff, Gordy and Gail’s son, his wife Leah, and their son Chris have carried on a legacy of service and generosity to others. Chris has traveled with the Knights of Malta to Lourdes five times accompanying ill children. Gordy and Gail, who have since passed on, are most definitely looking down on their family with pride and love and must marvel at the sight of Geoff, Leah and Chris walking on Lee Road. 

BLUE AND GOLD GALA The Santa Margarita Catholic High School community came together on Oct. 1 for the third annual Blue and Gold event. The gala brought in $258,000 for the school with $150,200 of that designated for tuition assistance. Themed “Under the Big Top,” the event was attended by 510 Eagle parents, alumni, grandparents, faculty, staff and friends. Santa Margarita parents Semra Nogueira and Lauren Ramirez chaired the event for the second consecutive year. Along with over 40 dedicated Blue and Gold Committee volunteers working in conjunction with the school’s Advancement Office, they put together an evening filled with an exceptional three-course dinner prepared by Chef Azmin Ghahreman and Sapphire Catering, drinks, dancing, live entertainment, vintage circus decor as well as a live and silent auction that did not disappoint. During the fund-a-student portion of the auction, Andrew Mendonca ’15 encouraged attendees to donate to tuition assistance as he shared in a video his own story of how tuition assistance allowed him to attend Santa Margarita. “Five years ago my life changed because of generous donors,” Mendonca said. Join us for Blue and Gold 2017, our celebration of 30 years, on Sept. 30. 

2017 Blue and Gold Chairs: Semra Nogueira and Lauren Ramirez

Thank you to our sponsors: BLUE AND GOLD SPONSORS: William Lyon Homes: Bill H. Lyon ’92, Matt R. Zaist ’92 SOARING EAGLE SPONSOR Birtcher Anderson Realty, LLC GSM Auto Group: Audi Mission Viejo, Infiniti Mission Viejo, Volvo Mission Viejo GST Jostens Mission Hospital Foundation O’Connell Family Foundation Shulman Hodges & Bastian, LLP WE BELIEVE SPONSOR Woodbridge Glass Inc.

For more information: www.smhs.org/eaglegolfclassic WINGS |

DEEPER LEARNING Since 2011, the SMCHS Arts Alliance has worked to raise the visibility and support the visual and performing arts programs of Santa Margarita Catholic High School. The parent-led organization is made up of nearly 100 volunteers. In 2012, the Arts Alliance began sponsoring guest speakers and enrichment events with funds raised from the Arts Alliance Christmas bake sale. This fall, the group sponsored two performing arts workshops led by professional artists. The Santa Margarita arts support group plans to continue growing the “master class” enrichment program providing students the opportunity to experiment with new artistic techniques, expose them to various artistic career paths and fields while continuing to foster an appreciation of the arts and their cultural significance. MASKS AS A TOOL International Schools Theatre Association (ISTA) teacher Matthew Godfrey, who has traveled the world teaching theatre and made his international debut on the Canadian cult classic TV show “You Can’t Do That On Television,” hosted two workshops for Santa Margarita Talon Theatre students in October, one for International Baccalaureate theater students and the other for the fall cast of “Our Town” as well as other interested performing arts students. Currently located in Los Angeles, Canadian-born Godfrey is a professional actor, director and producer with a firm belief that the art of performing can increase students’ self-esteem, develop compassion and empathy, and the ability to 12 |

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“You don’t always need facial expressions in order to convey an emotion as body movements can reveal just as much.” - Emma Polonsky ’17 communicate passionately and intelligently. Godfrey is no stranger to Talon Theatre, as he worked with Santa Margarita students during their trip to Terezín in 2015 for the International Theatre School Festival. As a member of the International Schools Theatre Association, Santa Margarita was able to hire Godfrey for the one-day seminar. As a part of the IB Theatre class, students have to look at a practitioner’s work and evaluate how it is applied to an art form. Coinciding with the curriculum, Godfrey’s workshop focused on Richard Boleslavsky’s book, “Acting: The First Six Lessons.” Godfrey broke down each of Boleslavsky’s lessons – concentration, memory of emotion, dramatic action, characterization, observation and rhythm – and had the students participate in artistic exercises that coincided with each lesson. Exercises included mimicking one another’s

walks, engaging both sides of the brain at once, practicing turning a laugh into a sob, using breath to trigger emotion and more. Many of these drills were nothing out of the ordinary for Santa Margarita theater students, but Godfrey’s workshop dug deeper into why these exercises are important. The afternoon workshop focused on work with Trestle masks, in which students were forced to get into character without relying on facial expressions and dialogue. The masks, created by a British theater company and representing various emotions, allow performers to explore characterization and movement through nonverbal performances. Wearing a mask also provides a sense of comfort in which artists feel more open to express themselves. Through the exercises, students learned the importance of body movement in conveying emotion. “You don’t always need facial expressions in order to convey an emotion as body movements can reveal just as much,” said Emma Polonsky ’17. For Sabrina Boyd ’17, wearing the mask was a step out of the theater student's comfort zone.

“I tend to rely on both the dialogue and facial expressions to convey my character,” Boyd said. “But the second I put a mask on both of those things were taken away from me and I had to rely solely on my physicalization to get my character across. This was a big step out of my comfort zone, but I feel like it has helped me to be a little less intimidated by movement on stage.” Using the masks as a tool, students also worked on entrances and exits, audience sight lines and how movement commands the audience’s attention. Through these workshops, the students learned to be more genuine and organic, be that as a performer, director, designer or stage manager. “Today is all about learning to be truthful on stage and how to reflect reality back to an audience, even if it’s a stylized reality,” Godfrey said. “Every performance should be rooted in something that is basic among humans because we all recognize what is genuine.” “FEELING THE RHYTHM” Steel drum and dance students were also treated to a workshop in October led by professional dancer and musician Yeko Ladzekpo-Cole.

Ladzekpo-Cole was raised by a family of drummers, dancers and musicians from Ghana, West Africa. She holds a bachelor’s degree in dance from CalArts and continues to carry on the tradition of performing and teaching the various styles of West African music and dance to students of all ages. LadzekpoCole’s career includes working on the dance sequences for the movie “Madagascar II, Escape to Africa,” and performing with Fleetwood Mac during a Super Bowl tailgate concert. Her workshop at Santa Margarita focused on teaching students about polyrhythms, the combination of two or more rhythms, and learning how to play and dance in harmony without sheet music or perfected choreography. “It’s all about feeling the rhythm,” said Ladzekpo-Cole. “West African music doesn’t work with beats or counts. You have to feel the pattern and pick up on it.” The steel drum and dance classes all had a chance to play the cowbells, drums and rattles to gain a better understanding of polyrhythms. Dancers also performed a traditional West African dance that paired with the music.

“The response from both teachers and students to these enrichment experiences has been extremely positive,” said Arts Alliance President Valerie Boyd. “Even the guest artists commented on how much fun they had working with our students and staff. Arts Alliance is thrilled to see our fundraising efforts go toward such meaningful learning activities for our students.” 

Professional dancer and musician Yeko Ladzekpo-Cole leads a workshop for Santa Margarita's steel drum and dance classes.

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BEYOND THE CLASSROOM Students experience the medical and law professions in the real world. “One of the most helpful things for us going into college was hearing from the professionals that it is not all about grades when applying to a pre-medical program. Everyone that spoke echoed the point that you have to love what you do in medicine and approach it with ambition and passion.” – Connor Riley ’17 EAGLES VISIT THE HOSPITAL Santa Margarita Catholic High School juniors and seniors had the opportunity to test drive a surgical robot and learn more about careers in healthcare in October at a special event hosted at neighboring Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo. Fourteen Santa Margarita students in advanced biology classes were joined with other high school students for the event, which provided an opportunity to meet with hospital physicians and healthcare professionals to learn more about how technology is impacting patient care. The seminar was part of the hospital’s efforts to foster an interest in careers in science, technology, engineering and math, all applicable to the healthcare industry. The students rotated through stations meeting with physicians and healthcare professions from across the field of medicine as well as worked hands-on with the new da Vinci Xi surgical robot, which 14 |

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allows surgeons to conduct minimally invasive surgeries in order to reduce recovery times and lower the risk of complications, officials said. Surgeries are performed by doctors using the robotic arms controlled by the surgeon’s hands in real-time via a 4D console. “This was a great experience because of the physicians from many disciplines that were able to candidly answer questions from students who are interested in pursuing a medical or health career,” said Santa Margarita science teacher Andrea Marcantonio. “The most important aspect of the trip was that it provided a hands-on learning opportunity for the students.” Each professional — whose field of expertise ranged from areas such as trauma, thoracics, neurology, urology, physical therapy and lung cancer — took a few minutes to explain what inspired them to pursue a career in medicine. “I am passionate about what I do and I

love what I do,” said Dr. Samer Kanaan, a thoracic and cardiac surgeon. “I encourage all of you to find a great mentor that you can learn under and, above all, love what you do.” The day was a chance for Santa Margarita students to learn more about careers in the medical field and what is takes to get there. “When you go through your education, everyone is going to be a great student,” said Dr. Josh Randall, a Mission Viejo urologist. “Doing something to make yourself a more rounded person is what is going to set you apart from your peers.” Even though schooling can be long and arduous and the career of a medical professional demonstrates many challenges both mentally and physically, the physicians in attendance explained to the students that it is all worth it.

Attorney coaches Michael Rossiter and

Michael Yoder speaking to Sofia Marquez ’20 The prosecution team represented by Quinn Webster ’17 (standing), Caroline Cai ’17 (left) and Tori Ydens ’18 

EAGLES VISIT THE COURTROOM It’s usually an unwelcome visit when students appear in court, however, Santa Margarita Catholic High School students happily appear in Orange County Superior Court each Tuesday and Thursday evening during the fall. The courthouse visits are part of a mock trial competition put on by the Constitutional Rights Foundation of Orange County. Mock trial is civic educational program that combines law-related education with tournament-style, academic competition. Students work alongside volunteer attorney and teacher coaches to analyze the facts of a hypothetical criminal case, prepare trial strategy and enact the various roles of a trial proceeding including serving on the prosecution or defense team, as a courtroom artist or as a journalist. For the students, it’s a chance to get a taste of what it’s like to be an attorney while learning more about the legal system and gaining valuable skills including confidence, poise, public speaking, critical thinking, analytical reasoning and teamwork. Through the program, students develop an understanding of and appreciation for the American judicial system, the rule of law and their rights and responsibilities as citizens. The program also offers a unique opportunity to interact one-on-one with

prominent legal practitioners. This year’s trial case People v. Awbrey, a case involving human trafficking and false imprisonment of an immigrant restaurant employee, was tried by 46 local high school teams. Forty-seven volunteer Orange County Superior Court sitting and retired judges presided over the competition along with 222 volunteer attorney scorekeepers, who evaluated each student in their role as the teams presented the facts and evidence of the case. The Santa Margarita team was comprised of 25 students and led by attorney coaches Lori Hershorin of Hershorin & Henry LLP; Michael Rossiter of Koeller, Nebeker, Carlson and Haluck LLP; Michael Deshong of Jones Day; and Michael Yoder of O’Melveny & Myers LLP. Sporting professional attire and armed with research and case studies, the students entered court prepared to persuade. This year's team finished in the top 20. Santa Margarita has been participating in the program since the school opened in 1987. “It’s empowering,” said Quinn Webster ’17. “There’s a sense of pride attached to advocating for your case and aiming to set things right in the eyes of the law. Being on the side of prosecution means fighting for the victim and aiming to provide a voice to those who haven’t

been afforded one. Real or fake, it’s about holding our judicial system to a higher standard for our country.” Rachel Kim ’18 said the program has been one of the most defining aspects of her high school career, a chance to make new friends and explore the legal field. “My dream of becoming a lawyer was definitely strengthened by my wonderful experience as a member of the mock trial team,” she said. “The attorney coaches, teacher coaches and students are all very passionate about the team, and we all grow together throughout the season.” 

Gabby Ortiz ’18 served as a courtroom artist.

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ACADEMIC SPOTLIGHT

CHRISTA CRAFTS SMCHS Director of College Relations Santa Margarita Catholic High School welcomed Christa Crafts as the school’s first director of college relations this year with a goal of building strong partnerships with colleges and universities on behalf of SMCHS students, parents and alumni. Crafts background is in public affairs/government relations as well as having experience teaching in Catholic high school. She is married to Sean Crafts ’92 and her oldest daughter, Claire, is in the class of 2020. The idea for the position was brought to President Andy Sulick’s attention by SM alumnus Garrett Williams ’14. Williams currently attends Georgetown University and volunteers in their admissions department. He felt a role like this would be extremely beneficial for Santa Margarita students. In her role, Crafts meets with college representatives and admissions staffs across the country to learn about their application process and, in turn, informs them about the Santa Margarita educational experience. She also stays current on college admissions trends passing along information to Santa Margarita counselors and students. As the college application process continues to change and, in some cases, become more selective due to the growing population and number of applicants, this position builds partnerships between colleges and Santa Margarita students to help them find the right place to continue achieving their academic goals. HOW WILL THIS POSITION DIRECTLY BENEFIT STUDENTS? When I meet with colleges, I’m asking specific questions about their school, the application process, if students should apply early decision based on their profile, how applications are reviewed and much more. This information is shared with our counseling department and input into Naviance, our college planning program, to guide students in the creation of their college lists or even in the minute details of the application process. Through my relationships with college representatives, I am learning about scholarships, pre-college summer programs and new opportunities for our students.

"You will end up at the college you’re meant to be at. Don’t compare yourself to others." - Christa Crafts

TIPS FOR STUDENTS APPLYING TO COLLEGE • Listen to your Santa Margarita counselor and use them as a resource.

HOW HAS THE COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS/ EXPERIENCE CHANGED OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS?

• Don’t try to change yourself into what you think colleges are looking for.

There is a new trend happening based on a study that Harvard’s education school published called “Turning the Tide,” which is focused on trying to lower the anxiety and stress of the application process so that students aren’t spending all four years of high school trying to get into college. It’s a sense of looking at the quality of engagement versus quantity and a push for students to pick activities they really enjoy doing rather than selecting activities with the goal of filling up a resume. Also, there’s a significant focus on character through recommendation letters and the essay prompts. Colleges want a picture of the student's personality, traits and interests in combination with their academic profile and extracurricular experiences. 

• Be yourself and let your personality shine through in your application, especially in the essay.

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• Look outside the box when choosing where to apply to college. Do your research to find the college that is perfect for you. • Start early! Try to get some of your essays done over the summer. • Keep a journal of what you have done during your high school years and any experiences that you think would be interesting for your essay. • You will end up at the college you’re meant to be at. Don’t compare yourself to others.

CAMPUS MINISTRY

KEEPING IT

At Santa Margarita Catholic High School, students have the opportunity to grow in their faith through retreats offered by the school’s campus ministry department. But with the daily demands of life, it can be easy for the memorable feelings associated with these retreats to slowly fade away. Inspired by their senior Kairos retreat, a three-day retreat offered at Santa Margarita during senior year, then seniors Andrew Hoang ’16, Beck Svensson ’16, Ricky Cruz ’16 and Mason Fredenberg ’16, as well as alumna Maggie Morris ’15, took it upon themselves to create REALministry, a student-led initiative providing students with the opportunity to worship God and exercise their faith in a retreat-style setting on a more consistent basis. The group’s “Ignite” events bring together students from Santa Margarita and other surrounding high schools to enjoy music, prayer and inspiring speakers – an opportunity to recreate the life-changing experience of Kairos and reflect on God’s role in each teen’s life. The praise and worship nights draw about 30 to 40 students and are held in the youth room at San Francisco Solano Catholic Church. The seniors who started the faith-filled ministry have since graduated extending REALministry’s reach through worship, prayer and music gatherings at their respective colleges at the University of Washington, Arizona State, San Diego State and the University of Portland. Following graduating from Santa Margarita, the REALministry founders passed down

One of the founding members of SMCHS REALministry and leader at of REALministry at San Diego State Beck Svensson ’16.

oversight of the local group to current seniors Dina Saccacio ’17, Ryan Ramos ’17, Eugene Choi ’17, Kieran Hickey ’17, Anton Poujade ’17, Julia Higgins ’17 and Nicholas Tedesco ’17. The students have continued to bring together local high school students in the community for meaningful worship while helping students branch out and find a place of comfort and confidence in their relationship with God. “When it comes down to it, we are doing this for God,” Saccacio said. “The feeling on the last day of Kairos is indescribable and it means the world to me to be able to allow students to experience that feeling again or experience it for the first time.” While Santa Margarita offers well-attended XLT praise and worship evenings and lunchtime Word and Worship events through the school’s campus ministry department, REALministry leaders say the entirely student-run program is an opportunity for students to grow as faith leaders. Francis Cabildo, who oversees Santa Margarita’s retreats and outreach program, helps mentor the students through prayer and advice. “I love that the students are doing this on their own and if they need help in any area, I’m happy to help,” Cabildo said. As REALministry continues to evolve, the group plans on expanding their Ignite events to include events such as beach bonfires and worship events in students’ homes. Through these casual gatherings, they hope to grow attendance and provide an atmosphere where teens are comfortable sharing their faith as they grow closer to God and one another. “A life with God brings out the best version of me and the best version of the people around me,” Ramos said. “REALministry was created in order to help us promote the idea that our faith in God is a lifestyle and should be something that we live every day.” Choi said he hopes the ministry nurtures confidence. “I realize that I am not the tallest, strongest or smartest but with Ignite events and my faith, I find confidence in the idea that God made me for a reason,” he said. “To be able to ignite someone’s faith and bring them closer to God is the reason why I chose to lead REALministry.” 

Current leaders of SMCHS REALministry. Pictured left to right: Dina Saccacio ’17, Ryan Ramos ’17 and Eugene Choi ’17 WINGS |

EAGLE ATHLETICS

EAGLES BRING HOME TWO CIF TITLES The 2016-17 school year kicked off with a bang for athletics with the fall sports teams bringing home two CIF championships, three league championships, two CIF players of the year, two coaches of the year and five All-America selections. Making history, the boys water polo program brought home the school’s first CIF title in the program’s history while girls volleyball earned a CIF championship and a ticket to the state finals.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

BOYS WATER POLO

Santa Margarita’s volleyball program captured their third consecutive Trinity League title, this time earning it outright after splitting the previous two seasons with Mater Dei. After going undefeated in Trinity League play, they quickly turned their sights to a CIF title. The team went into the CIF championship match with a bull’s-eye on their back facing league rival Mater Dei for an unprecedented fourth time in one season. The Eagles had beaten the Monarchs three times during the season, but defeating a team four times in one season is rare. The CIF championship game was an emotional rollercoaster that lasted five thrilling sets with the Eagles prevailing in a dramatic fashion, 23-25, 25-20, 25-18, 26-28 and 16-14. “This is surreal,” said Meghan McClure ’17. “I said let’s win CIF since my freshman year and four years later it finally happens. This team is amazing.” This was the eighth CIF championship in the program’s rich history. The Eagles previously won four consecutive CIF championships from 1996-1999, two more in 2003 and 2004 and one in 2008. The Eagles went on to win a Southern California Regional title before the dream season came to a close when the Eagles fell to Archbishop Mitty of San Jose, putting a 23-game winning streak to an end. The 38-5 season brought plenty of postseason accolades including Head Coach Katy Daly earning CIF Division 1 girls volleyball Coach of the Year and Meghan McClure ’17 earning CIF and The Orange County Register girls volleyball Player of the Year. Joining the All-CIF team were Devon Chang ’18 and Julianna Reisinger ’17. All three athletes also made The Orange County Register’s All-County first team, along with Sarah Ciszek ’18.

Just a week after the girls volleyball team secured the Division 1 crown, the boys water polo team won the Division 2 title, the first in the program’s history. Playing with exceptional teamwork and communication, the Eagles upset top-seeded Laguna Beach for the championship victory by a score of 6-4 after stringing together 10-straight wins. Their CIF title marked the 62nd CIF team championship in school history. UCI-bound Jack Baumgardner ’17, the lone senior on the team, led the way for the Eagles with two goals and one steal while Noah Hodge ’18 was a steel curtain in goal blocking nine shots and controlling the net. Brock Petersen ’18 came up huge for the Eagles adding a goal, two assists and four steals. “We've meshed so well,” Hodge said. “I love each and every one of my teammates.” The Eagles were led by first year Head Coach Jeremy Laster, who earned CIF Division 2 boys water polo Coach of the Year with the Eagles finishing the season 26-7. Laster, the son-in-law of school founders Tony and Melinda Moiso and husband of Frandy Moiso Laster ’92, was an Olympian in 1996 and a three-time All-American at Stanford. His extensive water polo resume also includes helping the U.S. claim the 1997 FINA World Cup, two NCAA titles and playing professionally in Greece. Player of the Year Brock Petersen ’18 and juniors Noah Hodge ’18 and Chase Petersen ’18 joined Laster on the All-CIF team.

The CIF-SS Division 2 boys water polo team pictured with the CIF-SS Division 1 and Southern California Regional championship girls volleyball team.

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Fall Sports 2016 All-Americans McClure Named ALL-USA Meghan McClure ’17 was named to the 2016 American Family Insurance All-USA girls volleyball second team. McClure, who will continue her education and athletic career at Stanford University, was selected by USA Today High School Sports based on in-season performance, level of competition and strength of schedule. McClure helped lead the Eagles to an undefeated Trinity League season, a Division 1 CIF championship, a Southern California Regional state title and an Open Division California runner-up finish.

Calcaterra Earns Under Armour All-America Honors Grant Calcaterra ’17 was selected to the 2017 Under Armour All-America team. Calcaterra, a 6’4, 215 pound wide receiver, verbally committed to The University of Oklahoma earlier this year and will compete in the Big 12 Conference. Calcaterra is Santa Margarita’s first football player to be selected for the Under Armour All-America Game. The UA All-America game has played host to 126 NFL draft picks, 31 first round draft picks, six NFL pro bowlers, four super bowl champions and one Heisman trophy winner. The 10th annual Under Armour All-America Football Game featured more than 90 of the nation’s best senior high school football players on Jan. 1 in front of a national audience on ESPN.

Neilon Selected to U.S. Army All-American Team Senior USC-commit Brett Neilon ’17 of the Eagle football team was selected to the 2017 U.S. Army All-American Bowl Game. Neilon becomes the third Eagle to be named a U.S. Army All-American with Max Tuerk ’12 becoming the first in 2012, and KJ Costello ’16 and Dylan Crawford ’16 being selected last season. Neilon is a threesport varsity athlete for the Eagles (football, basketball, and track) and has played several positions on the offensive line including a move to the center position this past season. The U.S. Army All-American Game aired live on NBC on Jan. 7 from the Alamodome in San Antonio.

McClure and Reisinger Named Under Armour All-Americans Joining Calcaterra as Under Armour All-Americans are Stanford signee Meghan McClure ’17 and Purdue signee Julianna Reisinger ’17 of the CIF championship girls volleyball team. McClure was selected to the second team and Reisinger earned third team honors. There were more than 600 nominations for the 11th annual Under Armour Girls High School All-America teams resulting in 150 All-America selections and honorable mentions.

2016 FALL HIGHLIGHTS GIRLS GOLF earned a back-to-back Trinity League title  GIRLS TENNIS won an 11th consecutive league championship  Eagle FOOTBALL won their first playoff game since 2012  Boys and Girls CROSS COUNTRY qualified for CIF prelims with 

girls qualifying for finals

Girls Head SOCCER Coach Chuck Morales named National Soccer Coaches  Association of America Private School Coach of the Year

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EAGLE REUNIONS

Reunion Time Late summer and early fall more than 450 Eagles gathered in locations around Southern California to celebrate their reunions. Santa Margarita Catholic High School’s charter class celebrated the school’s first 25-year reunion. The graduates shared memories on July 30 at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa in Dana Point. Down the road in Newport Beach on the same night, the Class of 1996 was kicking up a celebration at The Island Hotel. The reunion weekend was filled with school tours, happy hour events, delicious food, laughing, reminiscing, dancing and lots of “selfies.” The following day, 50 alumni headed to Angel Stadium to enjoy baseball and more time together. In early June, the Class of 2011 celebrated five years on June 18 at Dave & Busters in Irvine Spectrum. The classmates enjoyed reconnecting, toasting and dancing to the music of DJ Chris. Finally ending reunion season, the Class of 2006 met up at the Dana Point Yacht Club to celebrate their 10-year reunion on Oct. 8. They celebrated in style and danced the night away!

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Where are they now?

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHTS

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JENNA RICKER ’91 New York City Film Producer and Director WHAT ARE YOU UP TO NOW? I'm winding down after a fun few months of traveling to select cities where my film, “The American Side,” opened in theaters. It's also currently available on iTunes, Amazon, Vudu, Google Play, Netflix, Redbox and Sony DVD. I co-wrote, co-produced and directed the film, so it's been quite a ride! I'm excited to be back in NYC, catching up with family and friends, running in Central Park, and getting a few triathlons in before the season ends. I'm inspired by classmate and Ironman, Ryan Mummert ’91, and turning my attention back to other projects that have been on hold since our publicity tour for “The American Side” began back in March. I'm most excited to get back to writing so I can be on set again soon. ADVICE FOR SMCHS STUDENTS OF TODAY There's a lot of time and energy, understandably, spent thinking about the future – which college to apply to, which credits to take, which extracurricular activities look good on the transcript, which major to declare. So my advice would be try to enjoy THIS moment, where you are right now. A few things I picked up along the way, and in part because of my time at SMCHS are: • Allies make the world go round. Who lifts you up, inspires you, brings out the best in you? Find those folks and nurture those relationships. Bless those folks that don't add goodness to your life, then graciously move on. • Failure is fantastic. Seriously. There are no mistakes, and it's in the challenges that you discover your fortitude. That's where your best work is so often found. • Interested people are interesting. Go boldly after the things that excite you and success will follow. • Give back, on any scale, be it holding a door for a stranger, donating your time, listening to friend, doing a chore before being asked...there are endless ways to give, and man, does it feel good!

JOSH MOONEY ’92 Laguna Niguel, CA Vice President for Business Development and Digital Marketing Executive at EWI Worldwide

WHAT ARE YOU UP TO NOW? My wife Jean and I have two boys, Luke, 11, and Noah, 8. We've lived in Southern California since 2000 and Orange County since 2006, with the exception of a few years in Asia. PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT? We moved the family to Taipei, Taiwan in 2012 and survived! It was an incredible nearly three year adventure and life experience, but it was a long way from In-N-Out. WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO FOR FUN? Coaching Little League, playing tennis (terribly) and volunteering at the Coast Hills Food Pantry.

Celebrate

Class of 1992 & Class of 1997 SATURDAY JULY 8, 2017 6pm–11pm

Balboa Bay Resort, Newport Beach For ticket information visit:

1992: www.smhs.org/25year 1997: www.smhs.org/20year

STACEY ISAACSON HUFF ’94 Flower Mound, Texas President/Owner of T-GRIP Graphics & Signs

ADAM STOUT ’05 Milwaukee, WI Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Admissions, Marquette University

WHAT ARE YOU UP TO NOW? I am married to the most amazing man I could have ever wished for and have a beautiful teenage daughter Lauren who is the light of our lives. Sounds cliché I know, but it is so very true. When I'm not sitting behind a computer at work, my husband JD and I spend most weekends at softball fields watching our daughter play the sport she loves so much, similar to her mom. And when we are not at the softball fields, we are spending our time with family and friends.

WHAT ARE YOU UP TO NOW? After graduating from Marquette University, I spent six months in Orlando, Fla. working at Disney’s Animal Kingdom (Animal and Conservation Programs). I sweat it out as long as I could in the humidity before returning to the frozen tundra and accepting a position in admissions at my alma mater. For the last six years, I’ve served prospective students in various capacities, but most recently transfer students that are considering switching universities and joining us here at MU. I fell in love with an Iowa girl and we got married in November 2014. Shortly after, we bought a house, got a dog and in September 2016, we welcomed our first child, Alexander Patrick Stout, into the world! At work, I spend most of my time educating students about the admissions and financial aid process while traveling around the country to build relationships with colleagues and students at other institutions.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT? In 2012, my brother Brian Isaacson and I partnered up and started a successful graphics and signs company in North Texas. Yes, it is quite a challenge and has been a very educational journey to say the least. However, I wouldn't change it for the world. I am a firm believer that when you make a decision on what path you want to take in life, and you set forth on that said path, the skies the limit for you. You can achieve anything. It may take some blood, sweat and tears, but in the end it's so rewarding. Don't ever give up on your dreams and don't ever sell yourself short of what you can do in life. IF YOU HAD AN EXTRA HOUR IN THE DAY, HOW WOULD YOU SPEND IT? I would spend it with family and friends because they are the ones that help get you through the tough times, and they help you enjoy the good times. Life is way too short to not spend it with the people you love the most. Hopefully this mystical extra hour would be by a beach during sunset or someplace similar.

GIANNA GRUENWALD PRANATA ’95 AND RUBEN PRANATA ’95 Aliso Viejo, CA Gianna – Trust and Estate Litigation Partner at Wersching & Wolcott LLP Ruben – Strategic Partnership Manager at Telogis

WHAT ARE YOU UP TO NOW? Outside of work, we spend our weekends at the beach or enjoying other Southern California fun spots with our 4 year-old boy, Luke. LUCKIEST MOMENT? Reconnecting at our 10-year Santa Margarita Catholic High School reunion in 2005, which eventually led to getting married in 2010. IF YOU COULD BOARD A PLANE TODAY WHERE WOULD YOU TWO GO? We would head to Charleston, South Carolina. We had a great vacation there a few years ago, visited many amazing restaurants and enjoyed the fun, historic city!

mily. gle fa hed a E r lis ou from e pub hear e to b t o t o r n u e v s o r clas . Submit y We lo s you e u in o d z t n a Se aph mag otogr NGS nd ph snote in WI a n atio as rg/cl inform o be hs.o m mni t ore s . lu a w r or m w o f w hts. F fice at king g o li t lo o also ni Of ni Sp We're d as Alum t the Alum c e r a featu tion cont g a or inform @smhs. i n m alu

FAVORITE SM MEMORY? Hard to limit it to just one. Homecoming games filled with the energy and enthusiasm of SM students. The quality of faculty, coaches and administration is truly extraordinary. A lot of formative time was also spent playing around in the ETV truck. I had the opportunity to direct ETV morning news, spend time behind the camera and in front of the camera and work the controls. I have an appreciation today for the process of creating television and film.

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CLASS NOTES

We LOVE to hear from our Eagle family. Send us your class note to be featured in WINGS magazine. Submit your information at www.smhs.org/classnote

1994

1998

Michael Fisher ’94 and his wife Ellen welcomed their first child, Mary Margaret, in January. After six years as athletic director at Justin Siena Catholic High School in Napa, Calif., Mike and Ellen relocated to Tucson, Ariz. where Mike is director of admissions at Salpointe Catholic High School. Ellen teaches in the theology department at Salpointe and is a recent graduate from the master's program in education administration at the University of Notre Dame. 

In 2016, Carson Palmer ’98 began his 13th year as a starting quarterback in the National Football League. Carson led the Arizona Cardinals to an NFC West title and a spot in the NFC Championship Game in 2015.  

2002 1997 Patrick Fisher ’97 was named an alumni Young Impact Scholar at Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Business in May and spoke at the second Vatican Conference on Impact Investing in Rome in July. Patrick is the founder/managing partner at Creation Investments in Chicago where he lives with his wife Jenny Nicole, a writer of historical fiction, and three children: Desmond, 6, Meara, 4, Brendan, 2, and their dog Bacon. 

Jenna Scherman Shott ’02 and husband Jim welcomed Henry James Shott on Aug. 7, 2016. Baby Henry weighed 8 pounds, 4 ounces and measured 21.5 inches long. Mom and dad are so in love. 

2004

2003

Erika Province ’97 and Kurt welcomed son Kody in November 2014. Kody is smart, loving and the joy of their lives.  

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This class note was lovingly submitted by Erin Haverman Cragg ’03: I am submitting a note about my husband Michael ’03. He passed away on May 5, 2016 after a two and a half year battle with cancer. Anyone who attended SMCHS during the 2001-2002 school year might remember that we prayed for him during his first cancer treatment every morning over the PA. In 2013, he was diagnosed with cancer again, it was sarcoma caused by the radiation treatment he received when he was 17. Before he died, Michael started a catering company called Temecula Catering where he was the executive chef. We also recently had a son, Henry Job, born Oct. 13, 2015. I've heard from so many former Eagles following his death and many came to his funeral. Thank you. 

Santa Margarita sweetheart couple Jessica Vom Steeg Campbell ’03 and Brad Campbell ’03 welcomed wonderful baby Liv Pauline Campbell on May 30, 2016. Recently, the family moved back to Orange County from Los Angeles to be closer to their families who all can’t get enough of the new little bundle of joy. 

Chris Segal ’04 was recently named a recipient of the Newspaper Association of America's Top 30 under 30 Awards while working as the managing editor at The Daily News in Jacksonville, N.C. Segal is a third generation journalist and fell in love with the journalism community.

2005 Ryan “Vito” De Nicola ’05 is now executive chef at chi SPACCA Restaurant, an awardwinning meat restaurant in Los Angeles owned and operated by Mario Batali, Joe Bastianich and Nancy Silzerton. Nancy Keane, Michael Keane ’07 and girlfriend Kristen Klein recently visited the restaurant and enjoyed an amazing meal prepared by Chef De Nicola. 

2006

Last summer, Klay Thompson ’08 was integral in helping the USA Men's National Team earn the gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. Klay’s gold medal marked the third Olympic gold medal for Santa Margarita alumni joining Amy Rodriguez ’05 who earned gold in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2012 London games as a member of the US Women’s National Soccer Team. Klay helped lead the team to an 8-0 record and gold medal after starting six of the eight games and averaging 9.9 points per game. After a Golden State Warriors preseason game earlier this year, Santa Margarita Catholic High School Girls Head Basketball Coach Craig DeBusk and Assistant Coach Annie Mai Garrett ’05 traveled south to San Diego to watch Klay play. At the end of the game, they presented Klay with a Santa Margarita letterman’s jacket. Unbeknownst to most, Klay had never purchased a letterman’s jacket during high school and courtesy of Santa Margarita's athletic department, Klay was finally given his hardearned and well-deserved jacket.

 Ashley Leonard Osak ’06 was recently elected vice chair of the Little Wish Foundation, a nonprofit organization that grants little wishes to pediatric oncology patients. Little Wish's mission is to serve children with cancer by providing little wishes that bring hope, comfort and joy.

2008

 Michael Craigmile ’08 married Natalie Beach in Middleburg, Va. on Sept. 24, 2016. The two met while attending the University of Virginia and dated long distance between Singapore and Chicago before settling down in the Washington, D.C. area in February 2014. The couple currently resides in Alexandria, Va. and works in downtown Washington.

2009 On Aug. 26, Jamie Azdair ’09, who was an IB full diploma graduate, participated in Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC's white coat ceremony. Jamie plans to graduate from dental school in 2020. The ceremony was followed by a celebration for family and friends at Carousel in Glendale. Jamie's papa attended USC and graduated in 1978. 

 Ashley Wilson’09 married Keaton Beyer on June 18, 2016. The happy couple met at the University of Portland in 2012 through mutual friends. The maid of honor was Sarah Gould '09; Monica Yap '09 was a bridesmaid; and brother Andrew Wilson '12 served as a groomsman. The couple was married at the University of Portland's Chapel of Christ the Teacher. They now live and work in Portland, Ore.

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CLASS NOTES

2010

2011 Taylor Hammond ’11 recently graduated from Penn State University where he played volleyball. Taylor signed to play professional volleyball with the Netzhoppers KW-Bestensee of Königs Wusterhausen, Germany for their 2016-17 season. Highlights from his four years at Penn State include being named No. 1 in the Eastern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association (EIVA) and No. 5 in the NCAA for 11.04 assists per set. Taylor finished his career with the fifth most sets in Penn State history recording 4,732 and was an integral player in helping the team to their 19th consecutive EIVA regular season championship.

Brandon Blanchard ’10 recently gained the title of financial advisor with the Blanchard Investment Group of Wells Fargo Advisors. The Blanchard Investment Group builds, manages, preserves and transitions wealth for a select group of individuals, families and businesses. The group has over 45 years of experience practicing wealth management with care, skill and caution.

2012

2013

 Matthew Carrigan ’12 graduated in May 2016 from Penn State with a Bachelor of Arts in criminology and Bachelor of Arts in psychology. Matthew will be pursuing his master’s degree in homeland security at San Diego State University.

 Emily Biehl ’13 was named a Community Hero by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in July 2016. Emily was nominated by Chapman University for her outstanding community service and chose Homemade Inc. as her charity of choice to receive a $2,500 donation from Wells Fargo Bank.

 Erik Harris ’13, sophomore punter for the Navy football team, was recently named first team Academic All-District by the College Sports and Information Directors of America. Erik has a 3.59 grade point average and is studying nuclear engineering.

In 2016, Ryan Matranga ’12 was drafted by the San Francisco Giants in the 36th round of the Major League Baseball Draft out of the University of San Francisco. Ryan spent this past summer playing rookie ball with the Arizona League Giants and will look to advance in the Giant’s minor league system in the upcoming seasons. During his senior season with the University of San Francisco, Ryan was named the team MVP and also won the Troy Nakamura Kipona Aloha Award for the player who exemplifies courage, respect, culture and making the most of his skills. 

2016 Eagle football history was made when six alumni from two different teams, Washington State and Stanford, played each other in the same NCAA Pac-12 football game on Oct. 8, 2016. Pictured above left to right: Kyle Sweet ’15, KJ Costello ’16, Nick Begg ’13, Austin Maihen ’15, River Cracraft ’13 and Riley Sorenson ’13.

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2015 Connor Hilburn ’15, who attends Lakeland University, was named in July to the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference as an All-Conference All-Freshman team selection. In his first year, he played first and third base and was one of the team’s starting pitchers. Connor batted .325 with 37 hits, 16 runs scored, six doubles, two home runs and 24 RBIs and had the team’s longest hitting streak of 17 games. Connor was named the team captain for his sophomore year.

 Brittany Ptak ’13 was named Ivy League and GoPrincetonTigers.com Player of the Week for Sept. 26. Brittany, who is co-captain of the Princeton team, is excited to share back-to-back Ivy League championships with her team and coach Sabrina King ’97, a fellow eagle alumna. Princeton headed to the NCAA finals at the end of November.

 Christian Thierjung ’13 of the Cal men’s soccer team had a record season. Christian finished his senior season as leading scorer for his team with nine goals including scoring what is believed to be a school-record five goals on 10 shots in 71 minutes of play in the Harvard match in early September.

2016  Machaela George ’16 of Santa Clara University was named to the 2016 High School National Soccer Coaches Association of America fall girls All-America Team. In 2016, Machaela helped lead the Eagles to a CIF Division 1 championship and SoCal Regional championship.  Meghan Poth ’16 (2016 salutatorian) is at Dartmouth College, where she is studying biology, humanities and photography and is a member of the equestrian team. During the fall season, she helped the team win overall highpoint team championships at four of its eight shows and high-point reserve team champion for its zone. In addition to riding for Dartmouth, Meghan is helping biology professor Mark Laidre with his research regarding the behavior and relationships among hermit crabs. Meghan plans to major in biology and English and, eventually, study veterinary medicine.

Alumni: If this issue is addressed to your parents address and you no longer maintain a permanent address at their home, please update your information at www.smhs.org/alumnidirectory

In Loving Memory “He will raise you up on Eagles Wings” Santa Margarita would like to extend its deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the following members of the Eagle community. We will always hold you close to our hearts.

Michael Cragg ’03

Kevin Jack Meehan ’04

Gregory Moro ’04

Bradley Dixon ’06 WINGS |

NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID SANTA MARGARITA CATHOLIC HS

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

UPCOMING EVENTS

Parents of Alumni: If this issue is addressed to your son or daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please direct them to update their information at www.smhs.org/alumnidirectory

JANUARY

APRIL

JUNE

26 Career Day SMCHS 28 Freshman Placement Exam 8:00am SMCHS 31 Catholic School’s Week Mass SMCHS

-9 Spring Musical – 6 “Fiddler on the Roof” Eagle Dome, April 6-8: 7:00pm April 9: 2:00pm

Baccalaureate Mass 5:00pm Moiso Family Pavilion

SMCHS Graduation 10:00am UCI Bren Events Center

MAY 7 Mothers Club Fashion Show

17 Class of 2012 5-Year Reunion 7:00pm Dave & Buster’s

MARCH

12:00pm SMCHS

1 Ash Wednesday Mass SMCHS

11 Marian Mass SMCHS

6 Kraus Memorial Scholarship Concert 7:00pm Segerstrom Center for the Arts 27 Eagle Classic Golf Tournament Coto de Caza Golf Club

Make a difference today that will change the world tomorrow Your legacy is our future. You can make a difference today and provide for our next generation of Eagles by including SMCHS in your will. Gifts of bequests, charitable trusts, gifts of life insurance and retirement funds through your estate plan can provide long-term stability for Santa Margarita and also provide valuable tax and income benefits for you. To learn more about planned giving contact Laurie Beach, Sr. Director of Advancement, at (949) 766-6080 or beachl@smhs.org.

JULY 8 Class of 1992 25-Year Reunion and

Class of 1997 20-Year Reunion 6:00pm Balboa Bay Resort

15 Sarah DeMille 5K Memorial Run/Walk SMCHS