September 2017
Out in the open Volume XXXI, Issue 1
Hate groups test America’s tolerance for racism. By Hannah Prince, Print Editor-in-Chief
Photo by Heather Boucher
No hate - Photographer Heather Boucher captures local Laguna Beach protestors. A group of about 300 people from around Orange County gathered in Laguna Beach as a response to the far-right rally.
Gone to Ghana Junior Mai Griffith travels to Africa with her foundation to deliver medical supplies. By Rachel Do and Gillian Steffey, Staff Writers Mai Griffith has been going to Saddleback Hospital to volunteer once a week, for over a year. Griffith’s time spent at the hospital inspired her to create the Hearts for Hearts foundation in Aug. 2016. Hearts for Hearts is a nonprofit organization providing medical assistance to third world countries in immense poverty. It also donates
the supplies needed to improve the well-being of the people in these suffering countries. This foundation eventually took Griffith on an amazing journey half way around the world. “I realized that I wasn’t really getting to do anything that I wanted to do,” said Griffith. “I wanted to start my own thing in order to do
more outreach.” Since then, Hearts for Hearts has grown into a huge organization. Running such a big foundation takes a lot of time, but Griffith makes it work. She dedicates every Sunday morning to work on it and has found many ways to fund the organization. continued on page 5
A “Unite the Right” rally was planned for Saturday, Aug. 12 in Charlottesville, Virginia to protest the removal of a statue of General Robert E. Lee. The rally was organized by Jason Kessler, a former journalist and a member of the Proud Boys, an ultra-nationalist group. The night before “Unite the Right” rally, marchers yelled slogans, such as, “blood and soil” and “white lives matter,” while carrying lit torches onto the University of Virginia. “I wasn’t terribly surprised [in what happened in Charlottesville] because I feel like one of the effects of Trump’s presidency has emboldened a group of people; they felt unsafe to come out of the shadows before,” said AP U.S. History teacher, Ashlie Berg. Other right-wing groups, including those who claim to be neo-Nazis and KKK members, engaged with counter-protestors on Aug. 12. Not only did this rally spark protests nationally, but closer to home - Laguna Beach. A rally in Main Beach, Laguna Beach, for “America First! Electric Vigil for the Victims of Illegals and Refugees” quickly turned into a counter-protest on Sunday, Aug. 20. Authorities feared extremists would join, so police officers were sent to create barricades and guard civilians. There was little evidence of an extremist presence, but counter-protesters flooded the event from anti-KKK to “Black Lives Matter” demonstrators. No casualties occurred, but fights broke out when pepper spray was used on counter-protestors. These rallies became a ground for extremists to express their beliefs and opponents to resist them. Berg urges her students to take initiative and express their politi-
In this issue President’s daughter ● Page 4
The next generation ● Page 8
Carrying on the Hawaiian tradition ● Page 11
cal viewpoints. Because the alt-left and alt-right are so extreme, Berg explains the purpose and value of the middle common ground and stresses the importance of putting ideas into government most citizens can agree on. “A project called Common Sense Politics, […] shows with statistics that we are the most politically divided that we have ever been in the entire U.S. history, and times like this are worse than the Civil War and Civil Rights Movement,” Berg said. “Throughout history Republicans and Democrats have overlapped on issues, but over time that has been pushed farther and farther away.” Like Berg, Principal and AP U.S. Government teacher Raymond Dunne discusses current events with his students and their role in politics. “I think the country still needs to be more unified under issues of adversity, the fact that we all have different talents and skills and we need to somehow tap into those for benefits,” said Dunne. “We need to avoid blaming other people, so that hate does not win. [At SMCHS], our school’s Caritas Christi shows that Christ’s love needs to be passed along.” As President Trump responded to the violent actions in Charlottesville, citizens interpreted the message with opposing opinions, but the President argued both sides were at fault. “In the same way that people slithered out from under the rocks in Charlottesville, they did at home too,” Berg said. “We realized they are our neighbors. A positive spin is that at least we know they are there now. Now we choose either awareness or fear, and you [shouldn’t] live in fear - I want my students to realize that.”
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The Eagle Eye Staff
Freshmen come home The class of 2021 will attend the Homecoming Dance. By Riley Davies, Copy Editor and Mia Ross, Staff Writer
Courtesy Photo by SMCHS Yearbook
Dancing the night away- Students at last year’s homecoming having a fun night out.
Staff Adviser Debra Barbre Print Editor-in-Chief Hannah Prince Web Editor-in-Chief Rachel Tetreault Copy Editor Riley Davies Managing/Opinion Editor Ian Gutierrez News/Arts & Entertainment Editor Margaret Driscoll Feature Editor Kendal Orrantia Sports Editor Ryan Dunker Photo Editor Jesse Casey Illustrator Cambria Miller Staff Writers Olivia Hernandez Gillian Steffy Rachel Do Emily Redd McKenna Sulick Lauren Danke Brittany Kaplan Austin McGregor Mia Ross
News
The Eagle Eye
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t’s an Eagle tradition to welcome the incoming freshman and ring in the new school year with a spirited, classcolored and fun-filled welcome dance.
However, this year the Activities Office and Admissions Department made a change which resulted in freshman no longer being included at the Welcome Dance. Instead, the school held a Freshman Social and
will be allowing freshman to attend Homecoming. The class of 2021 will be the first class of freshman to attend the Homecoming Dance. “The way I understand it is homecoming has kind of been looked at as a date dance and as we have evaluated it over the past few years it has kind of evolved into more of a group dance,” said Activities Director, Sammer Darwazeh. “Homecoming is supposed to be inclusive of everyone.” This change has triggered various responses from the student body, including members of the freshman class. “I am excited for homecoming because it is my first high school dance and I am excited to have an event with the whole school,” said freshman Madison Sherwood. Sherwood’s optimism for homecoming does not represent all freshman. Some members of the freshman class are feeling skeptical about attending homecoming. “I honestly feel pressure because I don’t know too many people,”
said freshman Jessica Mattox. “Being a freshman, I just started here, so I feel pressure to impress people.” Junior Xavier Gerken, a Welcome Dance and Homecoming veteran, sees Homecoming as a dance for sophomores, juniors and seniors. “[Going to] Homecoming as a freshman, you don’t know enough people to get asked if you’re a girl, and planning a bus is hard because you’re new to the school and you don’t have enough time to get to know anyone you would want to take on a bus,” said Gerken. However, Gerken and Senior Class President, Ryan Marks are excited to see the freshman at homecoming. “I believe one benefit of freshmen attending homecoming is that the ones with siblings, especially seniors, can say they attended a formal dance together before one leaves the school,” said Marks. On Sept. 16, 2017 the Santa Margarita community will officially welcome the freshman home for the first time in its history.
Starting a new chapter New Assistant Principal prepares for the accreditation year. By Hannah Prince, Print Editor-in-Chief
The newest administration position is filled - meet John Hayek, Assistant Principal of Faculty and Instruction. Hayek began his work with teenagers when he was 18 years old as a boys soccer coach. He realized the rewards of being a coach and pursued a career in education at Saint Mary’s College, where he graduated with an English degree. “I got into the business to focus on teaching,” said Hayek. “My sole purpose is to work on instruction in the classroom and how instruction is being done, and that we stay innovative and productive.” After being in the education system for 19 years - 11 of those years as an administrator - it was the right time for change. Hayek resides in San Diego with wife, Linda, and their four children, but he couldn’t pass on this opportunity to return to a Catholic education system. As a product of Catholic high school and college education, he values the opportunities and atmosphere provided on campus. Hayek will work alongside the other assistant principals, Sean Basford of Academic and Curriculum and Tom Smith of Student Services. Each assistant principal has different roles within school from student service to curriculum and to faculty, which gives them a stronger focus to set goals and accomplish them. The 2017-2018 school year is an accreditation year, which is an evaluation process for schools at large to assess categories from faith-development to finances, organization, curriculum, facilities and more. Faculty, teachers, students and parents form committees to self-evaluate SMCHS. Then Western Catholic Educators Association (WCEA) and Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) will send a
visiting team to campus and they will write the official report in 2018. “We have to look at statistics and [critique],” said Smith. “For ex-
ample, how SM students do when they take the ACT or SAT, how our curriculum lines up with the way the states requires, etc.. After this
Photo by Jesse Casey, Photo Editor
Working hard- Hayek reviews documents for the accreditation year.
process, we will develop goals and decide this is our action plan.” Hayek already has one goal for the teachers: to establish an instructional strategy inventory. This strategy incudes presenting information and concepts in different ways other than lectures and tests. Hayek pushes teachers to involve their students in group work, presentations and current events, so that they gain knowledge in a useful and relevant way. “We are in the process of determining our long-term and shortterm goals,” said Basford. “We will reflect on our areas of strengths and also areas of weakness.” With three assistant principals, this accreditation year is planned to run smoothly. Hayek hopes to inspire students. “I put students first and I care about them,” Hayek said. “Ultimately, the decisions I make and priorities that come to the forefront are all for the best for students.
Opinion
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The Eagle Eye
An extra chromosome At RAD Camp, abilities outshine disabilities and that’s what we love. By Hannah Prince, Editor-in-Chief and AJ McGregor, Staff Writer
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n extra chromosome is everything. And yes, we are talking about Down syndrome -- plus not only Down syndrome, but anything from autism to cerebral palsy. This might be another story for you to read about a “life-changing experience,” but this is our raw, honest story of entering the Rising Above Disabilities family, known as RAD. RAD is a non-profit organization that offers programs and camps for adults and children with developmental disabilities, much-deserved respite for their caregivers and a life-changing volunteer experience for the local community. Though many teens see volunteering as a task, we came for another reason: to give back. As our week progressed at camp, we not only learned about our buddies, but also the most vulnerable parts
of ourselves. As we stepped on campground, loud noises, music and laughter spread around us. Though we consider ourselves very spirited, this was the next level. All our immediate thoughts and emotions were displayed on our faces: a bit of intimidation. But as the day progressed, so did our comfort levels. We began to blend in. Well, not exactly because no one at RAD blends in; everyone is free-spirited, loving and passionate. Then the best day of camp came upon us: buddy arrival! Hannah was matched with Alyssa, a 20 year old who’s a food-lover, dancing queen and giggle-box. AJ was matched with Charlie, a 20 year old who’s a jubilant sports fanatic, movie lover and dancing king. However, we quickly found out that this week would not be easy. The typical day at camp is far
from normal; each day is a new adventure. No matter if we were playing games, drawing, journaling, singing or even just relaxing by the pool, we could be sure to discover a new talent in our buddies. There was always something to do, somewhere to be, and someone to meet. Camp was challenging and exhausting at times, but by the end of the week, we wanted to volunteer and experience it all again. Both Alyssa and Charlie rise above down syndrome and autism every day. When we were both down or had a rough couple of hours, both of our buddies found a way to be compassionate with us. Alyssa and Charlie are more than our buddies, they taught us about ourselves. In a sense, we are all equals; we just have different needs. We were forced to reevaluate our perspectives. At camp, buddies come to be themselves. In such a society today, those with physical and mental disabilities struggle to find jobs, integrate into mature relationships and ultimately find acceptance. Just because simple day-to-day tasks are harder or exert more effort doesn’t give society a right to judge. We have no pity for any of RAD’s buddies because they are just like us. One buddy, Tim, sketched and reconstructed his comics year after year to display his work, and this year he will be selling them at the Orange County Fair. Like us, Tim,
photo by Ashley Gore
Strike a pose - Senior Hannah Prince (right) gets Alyssa (left) and Sydney (right) ready for the talent show.
Alyssa and Charlie have their own aspirations and goals. Today, nostalgia from camp comes in daily doses. As we reflect, it was more than an experience - we formed priceless bonds with our buddies that will last a life time. Volunteers don’t do the bare minimum to surpass the week, they go an extra mile simply for a smile or
laugh. To all of RAD, camp is defined as a place where abilities outshine disabilities. To Alyssa and Charlie, you have a special place in our hearts. *For more information, please contact Hannah or AJ at hannah. prince@smhsstudents.org or austin.mcgregor@smhsstudents.org.
photo by Hannah Prince
Movie night- Senior AJ McGregor (center) gets ready to watch “Sandlot” with Alyssa (left) and Charlie (right).
Rescuing is always the right thing Purchasing an animal from a pet shop may be draining-emotionally and financially. By Brittany Kaplan and Mia Ross, Staff Writers There’s no better feeling than a warm greeting from your pet after a long day away from home. Pets don’t care if you’re tired, cranky, or overworked – they just want to give you their undivided love and attention. According to The Seattle Times, studies even show that pets are phenomenal stress relievers. But where did our furry companions really start out their lives? The answer depends on where you purchased your pet. Three common ways that people acquire pets are through shelters, independent breeders or, most troubling of all, pet stores. All too often, these animals come from places far less appealing than the joyful atmosphere that pet stores suggest. Puppy mills, for example, are establishments that breed dogs for profit, typically on
an intensive basis and in deplorable conditions. Often, workers at commercial breeding facilities pay little attention to genetic quality, meaning many puppies will be born with incurable genetic diseases. In these facilities, cleanliness comes secondary to sales, and pets are for profit, not companionship. Buyers often learn of their dog’s origins the hard way, after their seemingly healthy new pet falls sick after coming home. Statistics from the American Society for the Protection of Animals reveal that an estimated 10,000 puppy mills exist in the United States today. But how do these deplorable facilities relate to pet stores? According to
illustration by Brittany Kaplan
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, puppy mills are the main suppliers of pet store canine stock. Independent breeders are a second means of buying a pet. Some believe that this is a less cruel way of sourcing animals, but breeding presents a separate ethical problem. According to the ASPCA, shelters in the United States alone take in more than 6.5 million animals per year. Of these animals, approximately 1.5 million will be euthanized due to overcrowding, so breeding loses its justification here. If there are millions of adoptable pets in
shelters, independent breeders shouldn’t be adding to the number of available animals. Adopting animals is a far more affordable and a safer option than purchasing from a breeder or puppy mill. It’s unethical to put animals through significant harm just so an American family can buy a cute, pure-bred puppy. Shelter animals are just as deserving of love and companionship as the pure golden retriever staring back from the window of a pet store. So, adopt your pets; it will benefit both you and your new four-legged family members. Adoption is cheaper, and your animal is far less likely to have an incurable genetic disease, further reducing the cost of owning a pet. With shelters overflowing with potential pets, it’s better to adopt, not shop.
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Opinion
The Eagle Eye
First Daughter Even though SM has its president, it is not the White House. By McKenna Sulick, Staff Writer
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here’s no worse feeling than standing in the Starbucks line, wearing sweatpants and a t-shirt, and hearing the all-too-familiar “Andy! Good to see you!” This greeting meets me every time I step foot outside my house, and always comes at the least convenient times. This is the way my life has been for my 17 years as the daughter of Andy Sulick. My dad has worked in high school administration since 2003 when he ended his teaching career. He worked at JSerra Catholic High School until 2014 as the Assistant Headmaster and Admissions Director. Being the daughter of educators is engrained in who I am. Starting at age five, I spent at least three days a week roaming the halls of JSerra, as “Mr. Sulick’s daughter”. People failed to recognize that he could kick them out of the school, and I was completely fine with that. It sounds ridiculous, but I had no idea what I was in for when I became the president’s daughter. His new title quickly turned our lives around. I traded my favorite city, my house, my dance studio, my best friends and my school for a drive down Antonio Parkway. When he first took the job at SMCHS, I was incredibly upset with him because I was not ready for my life to change.
The day he was installed as president, I walked on SM’s campus for the third time in my life and pretended to hate it. I did my best to stand out in the sea of blue, but I couldn’t fight the fact that I wanted to be a part of it. After that day, I was pushed head first into that sea of blue and gold, and haven’t come up for air since. There are a few things I’ve had to change in order to keep up with my dad’s role. The amount of people that, as my dad says, “think they are tight” with him makes for an immense reputation I have to keep up to make sure I am representing my dad in the best way possible.
This means always looking the part, talking in a polite and ] balanced way, making uncomfortably long eye contact while practicing firm handshakes and pretending I know people when I am introduced. This reputation gets exhausting and at times irritating to uphold, but I have been doing it my entire life, so it comes naturally. Everyone seems to want to talk to him (which I don’t understand), and
with everyone asking for “just five minutes!”, a line of people turns into another 45 minutes spent at an event we were only supposed to visit superficially. I have overheard various conversations about my dad at the Hanna’s Restaurant table next to us or in line at Target, as people are completely unaware of who I am. I usually just smile at them, but sometimes I join in on the conversation and say that I know the president personally as well. It’s a weird feeling to hear other people’s opinions, but I also like to take it in and make the family laugh when I tell them later. Everyone knows my dad when h e ’ s
photo by Margaret Driscoll
Bonded- McKenna Sulick (left)and Andy Sulick (right) share a close father- daughter relationship.
behind a podium, but no one really knows who he is when he grabs his suit jacket and leaves the A building every night. He is just as loud as he sounds when he yells into the microphone, has just as much enthusiasm as you think he does and never lost the side of him that is a competitive and demanding coach. He disguises himself on the weekends in college t-shirts, Lulu lemon shorts, sunglasses he’s had for a solid ten years, a fading black Navy Seal hat and a backpack he carries for no reason. He orders a venti vanilla sweet cream cold brew twice a day, watches college football on Saturdays while folding laundry and makes pumpkin bread on Sundays while watching the Redskins lose most of their games. While it is at times difficult to be the president’s daughter, it comes with perks. Where else would I go when I want a Reese’s, when I forget to print something or when I need some extra cash? I enjoy stealing his spot and parking my giant Chevy Tahoe next to Mr. Dunne’s Prius, and I always make faces at him when he’s speaking at events. If you ever find yourself behind us in line at Starbucks and recognize us in our sweats and t-shirts, don’t be afraid to come up to us, but just know that we’re not worth a thing before our coffee.
At odds with nuclear powers North Korea has threatened to launch missiles at the United States for months.
By Riley Davies, Copy Editor and Jesse Casey, Photo Editor North Korean Leader, Kim Jongun’s arsenal of Inter-Continental Ballistic Missiles (ICBM) fly through the night sky, on a crash course with the United States West Coast, specifically Los Angeles County, as its target. U.S.Terminal High Altitude Area Defense anti-ballistic missiles, based in South Korea, fly to intercept, but can’t keep up with the sheer number of missiles. Only a few of the missiles are actually nuclear, but one is all it takes. Thousands of people will die as soon as the IBCMs hit American soil, buildings up to a mile away are turned to rubble and fires spread across the arid Los Angeles landscape. A fallout cloud of 3,000 meters engulfs the city, leading to millions being contaminated by radioactive dust, causing long term chromosomal damage. An instant state of emergency is declared in California, while America and its allies are at the brink of an all-out
nuclear war. If North Korea was able to successfully launch a nuclear attack the devastation at ground zero would be catastrophic. However, according Business Insider, “any attack on the U.S. or its allies would be political suicide for North Korea”. Kim Jong-un uses the international communities fear of him to his advantage by threatening nuclear war with the rest of the world. This gives Kim Jong-un the leverage to ask for food and resources for his people, in exchange for disarming his military. He is not irrational with his actions; he is strategic and manipulating. In the past few months, we have seen North Korea’s missile program at its most active level in decades. According to CNN, North Korea has launched 21 missiles just in the year 2017. However, they have been testing, specifically nuclear weapons, since 2006 under Kim Jong-il. The United Nations has reacted with outrage, putting down the regime with progressively harsher sanctions as punishment, however, this has proved ineffective over and
over again. The circling question is, why is North Korea threatening an ICBM attack? No one has been able to come to a reasonable conclusion other than, North Korea just wants to protect the Kim regime. The Kim family has been the sole rulers of North Korea for its entire existence. President Trump claims military action would not be his first choice in dealing with North Korea. Trump has been communicating with China’s President Xi Jinping in hopes that they could work together on the issue. China is North Korea’s largest trading partner, so if China stopped trading with them there would be devastating effects to the North Korean economy. Trade sanctions between the two countries have not played out easily. China has acted in an unwilling manner leading Trump to threaten halting trade with any country that has involvement with North Korea. If this were to occur, the effects would cripple both Chinese and North Korean economies. On Sept. 5, 2017, Trump announced via twitter that South
Korea and Japan would have access to purchase a, “substantially increased amount of highly sophisticated military equipment from the United States.” By allowing South Korea and Japan to purchase military equipment the U.S. is provoking North Korea. The U.S. and North Korea have been playing cat and mouse for decades, but now the mouse has nuclear capabilities. This means that the U.S. has to treat them as a real threat, meaning more military presence and anti-missile strategies. Also, North Korea has lost a lot of credib-ility, and strained the patience of the U.S.. Additionally, the president has gone from wanting “a one-on-one meeting” with Kim Jung-Un to condemning him publicly. The combination of these actions stresses the relationship between North Korea and the U.S.. If Kim Jung-un decides he is losing control of the regime, or that the regime is in danger, he truly becomes unpredictable. So, the American people can breathe easy for now but, if North Korea does strike, good luck.
illustration by Hannah Walz
ICBM - North Korea has the power to launch a nuclear attack.
Feature
Sharing her heart continued from page 1
illustration by Cambria Miller
30 years in the making The class of ‘91 gives insight on the school’s foundation. By Hannah Prince, Print Editor-in-Chief
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our years of opportunity, adventure and challenge awaited the freshman class of 1991 as they stepped onto the newly completed SMCHS campus on Sept. 2, 1986. This year, as the newest freshman class of 2021 stepped on campus, it came with the same SMCHS logo on their polo, following the footsteps of the alumna. Current math teacher and Interdisciplinary Program Coordinator, Doris Gatfield, has experienced 27 years at SMCHS. Gatfield taught study skills and coached athletics for the graduating class of 1991. She discovered that the first class was the foundation of a faith-filled community that will be forever cherished by future students. “This school has a great sense of community, more than any other school I have taught at,” Gatfield said. “The kids are probably more stressed than most places, but they are more excited and always have ways to be involved.” Administrator Sergio Muniz also experienced the first years, but as an SMCHS student. Now Muniz returns to campus with an opportunity to work for directly for President Andy Sulick, another graduate from the class of 1991. “I want this experience for current students to be as positive as mine,” Muniz said. “I want to continue the great excellence that is here, but make it even better.” When the school first opened, it only had a charter class of 216 students - each year another grade was added. So for Muniz, he was always the oldest on campus along with his 1991 peers.
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The Eagle Eye
“We [the class of 1991] were always the seniors,” Muniz said. “The only downside was we didn’t know what to expect; we set the ways for future classes and we did not have any guidance from older classes or siblings. So, we set new traditions. Every aspect of what went on those first four years was a big event because it was the first time it happened: class elections, ASB elections, varsity football games, CIF titles. All the experiences together were monumental for us.” The tight-knit community of 1991 created endless friendships for Muniz, including his relationship with Athletics Manager John Byszewski. “I was close to everybody,” Byszewski said. “The community and people here brought me back - everything was exciting. I even had Mrs. Gatfield for a teacher and [a class with Sergio Muniz]; it was my favorite class.” With the support of the Eagle family, today, Muniz looks at all the different facets from the clubs to arts to athletics to academics to see what the school can do better for faculty, staff, students and alumni. Though changes throughout the years make SMCHS more modern, the root is solid in faith and community. “SMCHS prepared me for college and life,” Muniz said. “The life lessons learned at this school have allowed me to withstand the various adversities that life will throw me - some wanted and some unwanted. It established the foundation of my friendships […] and who I am today is rooted here at Santa Margarita.”
“I have multiple fundraisers and I write to companies, asking for donations. I write to individual people, asking for sponsorship and money for it, “Griffith said. “We get a collection of donations for a year.” The money collected contributed towards Griffith’s trip this past summer. After much research, Griffith decided to go to Ghana with her foundation. “”I was looking into safe places that really needed help and were in poverty,” said Griffith. “[And] Ghana is one of the three safest countries in Africa.” Griffith traveled with another non-profit organization called Projects Abroad. Together, they were able to deliver medical supplies to a leprosy camp and many orphanages in the country. “”Even though I knew I was going to a village in Africa, I was expecting it to be a lot more different than it was,” Griffith said. Specific supplies were given to the orphanages based on what they were in need of. Griffith and her team also set up free clinics to give medical aid to the many people who usually cannot afford things like doctor visits or trips to the hospital.
“At the orphanages, we tested the kids for malaria and we treated them for ringworm,” Griffith said. “At the leprosy camp, we bandaged and cleaned their wounds. Some of them were missing whole parts of their limbs.” Griffith was featured on ABC news for the amazing work her foundation has achieved. “I was really nervous to be on the news, but it ended up being a great thing because so many people heard about the foundation and donated money,” Griffith said. Griffith also received the Special Congressional Recognition award from Congresswoman Mimi Walters for her service. “I want to continue
with my foundation for the rest of my life,” Griffith said. “I want to go to medical school to be able to [help more people].” After her eye-opening experience in Ghana, Mai hopes to bring Hearts to Hearts to Sri Lanka next year. “Being there made me realize that a lot of things we worry about here do not matter. I didn’t have a mirror for two and a half weeks. I didn’t have any phone service and I wasn’t worried about how I looked,” Griffith said. “This trip definitely made me realize that life should be much simpler than it is.”
courtesy photo
Making a difference - Griffith, with her Hearts for Hearts Foundation, assists children at an orphange in Ghana.
Making his mark Students welcome a new school chaplain. By Margaret Driscoll, News and A&E Editor and McKenna Sulick, Staff Writer
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fter moving to various locations around the world, Father Mark Cruz settles in the Campus Ministry room of SMCHS, where he loves his new job as the school chaplain. Cruz did not picture himself becoming a priest until his senior year of high school. It was a long process for him to realize what he was called to do, and it wasn’t until the second quarter of his senior year that he partook in a youth group outing that sparked his interest. Cruz’s dream shifted from law to faith.
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There is so much goodness and beauty in the world no matter what reality tells us.
the music ministry. The next chapter of his life opened in the Diocese of Orange in 2015, where he was a chaplain for two years in the Newman Club at Cal State Fullerton. Then, Cruz assumed the chaplain position at SMCHS. “One thing that I noticed is that SMCHS is very structured, in a positive way, and structure gives an order for direction taking,” Cruz said. “I like that it shows certain direction.” Being a priest is something Cruz loves. He constantly gets to see new faces and travel to new places. He has ministered in areas without cellphone service and basic resources and still finds joy in the people he meets. “You get to know more about the lives of people and when you look
at it from the perspective of faith, you see how God works in their lives,” Cruz said. “There is so much goodness and beauty in the world no matter what reality tells us.” In his first months at SMCHS, Cruz noticed how welcoming the staff, students and community is. He plans to immerse himself into the community fully. Cruz leads by example, encouraging students to always be themselves. He is excited to work with students this year and hopes everyone enjoys this year of faith. “We have to remember that we are God’s beloved children and there will be times we are successful and we will also fail,” Cruz said. “Whether we stumble or succeed, God will always love us for who we are.”
Father Mark Cruz
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illustration by Cambria Miller
“In the beginning I asked myself why become a priest,” Cruz said. “This shifted to the possibilities of asking why not become a priest.” From there, he made a decision with his heart and became an ordained minister. Cruz began his ministry in the Philippines as a youth minister, director of seminary formation, vocation director and assisted with
photo by David Espinosa
Chaplin in action - Cruz presides the welcome mass on Sept. 6th.
“I enjoy fantasy football because of all the competition and how everyone gets involved. I play the best players going up against the worst teams.” Sophmore Andy Gunneman
“I use my keen knowledge of football and Madden to make predictions on how players are going to play during the week.”
Junior Skyler Santini
“Having a Sunday night game and when you win, it’s unreal. It’s a feeling of just dignity and pride. It makes me watch the games more closely, and I feel like I’m actually playing. Senior Luke Bobruk
“Fantasy Football is pretty much all I focus on outside of school. I examine matchups and players’ health all week leading up to the game” Senior Christian Blazona
By Ryan Dunker, Sports Editor and Ian Guttierrez, Managing Editor
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t’s Sunday and that means an abundance of football games as well as an opportunity to rack up fantasy points. As the first games begin, fantasy players see their team’s points increasing, but most fail to notice an injury, suspension, or home field advantage which will have a negative impact on their total score. Win or lose, fantasy players learn something new from each game and develop a strategy that could help them win their league and a first place prize. Fantasy football has been around for a long time and many people have heard of it, but do they really know what it is? According to Sports Management Degree Hub, fantasy football has become a widely popular game with nearly 40 million players and has an 18.6 billion dollar market. Most fantasy leagues have entrance fees as well as cash prizes, which is why there are a lot of time and hours spent researching and developing a winning strategy. “I started playing about six years ago, and from there I’ve become an avid football fan as well as fantasy player,” said senior Griffin Johnson. “When I’m playing in a league I like to put some time and effort into researching players as well as creating a winning strategy because, after all, fantasy is not always free and money is on the line.” On a typical fantasy team, there
are nine positions: a quarterback, two running backs, two wide receivers, one tight end, one defensive team, a flex position, and a kicker. A flex position can be filled by a running back, wide receiver, or tight end. It is the fantasy players’ decision to select any position they want to fill the flex position. There are also multiple bench spots that can be filled by any position. Prior to the NFL season, leagues will host a draft in which a fantasy player can fill his or her roster with players in each position that will help them win. There are two types of drafts: the snake draft and the auction draft. A snake draft is when fantasy players go in order and select a player they want on their team until all their positions and bench are full. In this draft, order and pick number can be everything. The person with the first pick must wait and pick last in the second round, while the person who has the last pick will have the first pick in the second round. “I prefer snake drafts because the teams are generally more even and well distributed.” Johnson said. “Even if you get one of the last picks, you can get a quality player and use that early second rounder to build a dynamic duo. It’s a much smoother process for me and often produces my best teams.” An auction draft is where fantasy players bid on players and the draft
continues until each player’s roster is full or he runs out of money. There are multiple strategies for bidding on players, but most people would suggest that players shouldn’t spend all their money on one player. There are plenty of good players that are capable of providing and racking up points, so players shouldn’t worry if they don’t get their first choice. “Running backs would be good for first picks because there’s plenty of good quarterbacks to choose from as well as a plethora of wide receivers capable of getting points for your team,” Johnson said. Throughout the season, fantasy players have the opportunity to add players that may be having a good year or could be playing against and easy opponent. Fantasy players always have the option to drop players if they deem it necessary and pick up a new player that could be more beneficial for their team. On bye weeks, many players will go to the waiver wire to pick up a substitute that could potentially get some points for their team. “I suggest players check waiver wire, you want to check the app daily because there will always be steals in the waivers and transaction,” Johnson said. “For example if a starter gets injured, the backups will be good to have.” When playing in a fantasy league, there will always be matchups where it comes down to a one
point difference, but how can this be prevented? Points and scores are determined by the number of touchdowns, yards, and plays that a football player can obtain within a game. Although scoring is different for each position, most fantasy players must know that there are certain factors that effect how many points a football player can get. “I check for players that are either injured, suspended, or playing a tough opponent where they won’t be able to get as many points,” Johnson said. “It’s really important to check for these things so I don’t have a player not getting any points, and if I have a suspended or injured player the team’s backup could be a good substitute for my roster.” As Johnson said, players throughout the football season may suffer from injury, may face a suspension, may have a bye week, or are just competing against a tough opponent. A bye week is something that each NFL football team has per season in which they do not play a game. These factors can be used to help address how one should start their team and which players would prove to be more evaluable on a week by week basis. All in all, fantasy football comes down to what football players can do, but there are plenty of things that a fantasy player can do to give his or her team a winning chance. Photos and illustrations by Ian Gutierrez, Ryan Dunker and Jesse Casey
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The Eagle Eye
Varsity basketball trains in a new way this winter. By Ian Gutierrez, Managing Editor and AJ McGregor, Staff Writer It’s 105 degrees, hearts are racing and the hot yoga session has just begun. Basketball season may not be until winter, but that does not stop the varsity basketball team from training in hard, unique ways. Beginning last year, the basketball team attended hot yoga at Sumits Yoga. Head Basketball Coach Jeff Reinart believes that it is a great way for the team to bond, a break from its normal routine. “Anytime, as a team you go through something hard or something that not everybody is able to do, I think it really helps bring everybody closer,” said senior Pearson Parker. “It’s a common struggle that’s hard for everybody, so it’s another thing the team can bond over and it’s also like another practice.” Not only has hot yoga strengthened team chemistry, but it works in other aspects that benefit the team. “It really teaches you how to push through things and be able to block out certain situations,” Parker said. “You have to learn how to block out the heat, block out the smell of the people next to you.” For some on the team, hot yoga is seen more as a revitalizing exercise than typical conditioning. “I enjoy hot yoga because it puts me at peace and there’s cute girls in there,” said junior Jake Kyman. Owner Robbin Rubio enjoys when the basketball team
Courtesy Photo
Namaste - Varsity basketball endures a hot yoga session: AJ McGregor, Shengzhe Li, Christian Blazona, Jordan Guest, Benny Li, Aldo Ruiz, Jake Blazona, Max Agbonkpolo, Jake Kyman, Blake Davidson, Robin Rubio, Pearson Parker, Rhys Biddiscombe, Jeff Reinert, Ryan Evans, Nick Davidson, Brenden Cormie and Seth Henry (left to right).
participates. She believes they bring a different energy than a normal class and is happy to see a youthful group attending. “All of our teachers have loved teaching the basketball team,” said Rubio. “They are very disciplined, focused and they try their best every time they come in. When one of them starts struggling, they will look to each other for support. They
give each other the encouragement to keep going” Rubio believes that yoga has many benefits for sports and is glad to see the basketball team improve each session. “It enhances concentration and self-esteem,” Rubio said. “It gives them better awareness in the present time.” Parker is thoroughly fond of hot
yoga. He feels it helps improves mental and physical strength. “Personally I really like the feeling when it’s done,” Parker said. “Hot yoga definitely helps you stretch and stay loose.” Parker knows hot yoga is preparing the team for challenges and adversity that they may face in their upcoming season. “It prepares you well for
situations when you might be really tired and you have to push through it, like late in the game or the fourth quarter,” Parker said. “As a team, it prepares you because you might be next to another teammate and he may be laying down and you have to help him push through it.”
The next generation
Freshmen see a friendly face when their senior siblings are on campus. By Kendal Orrantia, Feature Editor and Emily Redd, Staff Writer For one of them, it’s their first day of high school. For another, it’s their last first day. Having a senior sibling on campus is a unique experience for many freshmen in the class of 2021. From brothers to sisters to mixed sets of siblings, the amount of freshman-senior pairs is significantly large. The Gonzalez sisters and Marks brothers provide perspectives from both sides. Freshman Lola Gonzalez is looking forward to going to school with her older sister, senior Alex Gonzalez. “I was excited because I knew there was always someone there for me around school,” said Lola. “I always had someone to look up to.” In addition to having her sister at school, Lola likes recognizing some of Alex’s friends on campus. She quickly went from seeing them at her house to passing them in the B building hallways. “It’s more comfortable for me,
knowing more faces at school,” Lola said. “Her friends always smile and say ‘hi’ to me.” From a senior’s perspective, senior Alex is envious of her younger sister’s situation. “I wish I had an older sibling when I was a freshman, someone to make my high school transition easier,” said Alex. Freshman Morgan Marks has learned that having his older brother, senior Ryan Marks, at school with him is helpful in a lot of ways. “[Ryan] was able to show me around and help me with what I was confused on,” said Morgan. Morgan and Ryan also bond over the interests and hobbies they share. “We both like volleyball and hanging out with our friends,” Morgan said. For Ryan, his inclination is to look out for his brother and ensure that he’s doing okay.
“I always tend to check in on him and make sure he is accommodating to the high school life,” said Ryan. “I give him a big bro-hug every time we meet.” Both senior siblings provide helpful advice regarding life at SMCHS. “I told [Lola] to always know her schedules, know her buildings and don’t go to the wrong lunch,” Alex said. Ryan simply wants his brother to take advantage of his high school experience. “I told him to get involved because I don’t want him to miss out on all the opportunities SM has to offer,” Ryan said. As freshmen walked into the front gates on the first day of school, many were anxious to begin their high school experience. But for others, their nerves faded as they began a new journey with their senior sibling by their side.
photos by Jesse Casey
Crossing Paths - Senior students with their freshman siblings: Lily and Natalie Matteson, Morgan and Ryan Marks, Jake and Christian Blazona, Alex and Lola Gonzalez, Caitlin and Kendra Cague and Tommy and Anna Wilkerson (top left to bottom right).
A&E
The Eagle Eye
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Pageant of SM masters
Pageant of the Masters Junior Art Show features artwork from students. By Kendal Orrantia, Feature Editor and Lauren Danke, Staff Writer
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t this year’s Pageant of the Masters Art Show in Laguna Beach, many students’ dreams came true for their art careers. The junior art show featured artist’s work from grades Kindergarten to 12th. Senior Ava Steensland, juniors Caitlin Caruso and Molly Glackin and sophomore Kori Bento were among these students. Having her work displayed in public was a new experience for Caruso. Before this year, she had only made artwork for pleasure or assignments for her drawing class. “It was different seeing my art actually outside, with people looking at it, instead of me doing it in a classroom,” said Caruso. Both Caruso and Steensland were presented the opportunity in their drawing class last year from teacher Christine Adolph. Adolph chose certain students’ art to submit for the Imagination Celebration Art Show, a larger art show at the Irvine Fine Arts Center. From there, their pieces then qualified for the Pageant of
the Masters. “It’s amazing to see all of your hard work on display” said Steensland. Steensland won third place in the 12th grade division for her “Tiger Woman” piece, while Caruso received a second place award in her division for “Octopus”. Both artists visited the show in Laguna with their families and friends. Caruso’s favorite part was seeing viewers react to her art. “People would walk by and say ‘Oh, this is so cool’ and they were talking about my work,” Caruso said. Steensland and Caruso have been pursuing art for many years. In addition to her drawing class, Steensland has participated in after school classes and the Parsons School of Design summer art program in New York City. “I have always liked drawing and painting even in middle school and kindergarten” Steensland said. “It’s fun to be able to create something tangible that is all of your ideas [because] no matter what you do, you can be proud of it.”
Art by Ava Steensland
Tiger women- 3rd place
Art by Molly Glackin
Mama Earth- 3rd place
Albert
Art by Kori Bento
Art by Caitlin Caruso
Second Place- Junior Caitlin Caruso’s art titled “Octopus”won 2nd place in her divison.
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The Eagle Eye
RUNAWAY Senior Jack Madden establishes his own fashion brand. By Ian Gutierrez, Managing and Opinion Editor
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or most students, clothing is nothing more than Santa Margarita polos and Westway shorts. Senior Jack Madden, on the other hand, sees clothes as an expression of creativity and of oneself. In Jan. 2016, Madden officially created his clothing brand, RUNAWAY, selling T-shirts, long sleeves and pants. Madden’s brand is the culmination of his passion, determination and self-expression that started years before. “When I was 14, I started getting into higher fashion brands and different styling,” said Madden. “I realized I had more ideas about what would look good and how I could express myself through clothes.” Madden continued his interest in clothing by learning to sew and make designs in Photoshop. He used these skills to start his first company in January 2014 with his friend Grant Pratt. “Me and [Grant Pratt] started this weird brand and made some shirts and that’s what started it,” Madden said. “He graduated already, but he really inspired me in my design work and showed me how to do things in Photoshop. From there, I took it and made it my own.” Evolving from this previous company, RUNAWAY’s designs are created more professionally. Madden’s designs are either self-created or are commissioned by an artist he pays. Despite enjoying designing, Madden finds it difficult. “I don’t draw that well,” Madden said. “I have really good ideas, but
either I have to pay an artist to do it or I have to get something from the internet and try to recreate exactly how I want it to be.” For most of his inspiration, Madden has looked to Kanye West. “[Kanye West] represents a different type of culture that takes art into his own hands and makes everything unique,” Madden said. “If you see what he’s doing now, he’s basically running the whole clothing economy.” Selling his clothes in different areas such as skate-parks and school, Madden has made enough money to sustain his company and even venture into new opportunities. Madden has been in contact with different apparel companies. He is looking to expand his brand and find new ways to produce his clothes. With many factors in play, Madden is trying to plan his future with RUNAWAY. “Depending on how this year goes with all the stuff going on, I was going to apply to schools, but then take a gap year and take an internship in L.A. at a fashion company,” Madden said. “I’ll work on my brand and see how that works out. If not, I’ll go to college the next year.” Madden wishes to create a brand that transcends the normal fashion company. He wants to create something globally recognized that explores creativity in numerous industries. “I’d want to have my own global brand that isn’t just fashion, but fashion, architecture, art, and
technology,” Madden said. “It sounds kind of crazy, but almost like Apple. Having a bunch of creative people and creative minds who can express themselves in my own creative conglomerate and we’ll change the world in every
single way with our own array of ideas.” His passion within the fashion industry began with t-shirts. The future is yet to tell what it has in store for Madden - he will continue to express himself and others
through his line. “I’m able to express myself through my designing and even what I wear,” Madden said. “It shows a different side of me that people wouldn’t be able to see if I didn’t make clothes.”
Photo by Jack Madden
Desert trip - Madden takes a road trip with ‘17 alumni, Grant Pratt, and seniors Lillijane Watt and Matt Delaney to Salvation Mountain for a photoshop of his line.
Faces of Comedy Sportz Meet the captains of the funniest sports team on campus. By Margaret Driscoll, News and A&E Editor There must be a Comedy Sportz match happening if there is loud laughter and cheering coming from R3 as two improvisation teams play against each other with acting and jokes. The Comedy Sportz team began performing for crowds of 20 people and now has 120 paying audience members. It has become an essential part of campus life, thanks to its captains and members. It is nothing like a typical sports team, and its captains are anything but ordinary. Seniors Hannah Loessberg and Iden Mozafari are thrilled to be this year’s team captains, after alumni Dylan Field and Judy Clayton. “I had always known that the day would come when Dylan and Judy would be gone and then it would be my responsibility to carry the team,” said Loessberg. “This is something I have looked forward to for a very long time.” Loessberg always knew she wanted to be captain, but Mozafari didn’t exactly have the same mindset.
“I didn’t want to be a captain first year and second year we had really strong captains,” said Mozafari. “When they left I started to want the captain position and began to seek it.” Loessberg and Mozafari are ready to tackle the task of being team captains and have their own ideas on how to make the team as strong as possible. “This year we really want to condition our team to be individually capable but also be able to give and take in a scene,” Loessberg said. “The good thing with improvisation is that there is always room for improvement.” Both captains take their positions seriously and want the best for their team. To do this, Mozafari plans to do more game practice and split the JV and Varsity in a more organized fashion. “We aren’t going to make too many changes because, why fix something that isn’t broken?” Loessberg said. “But I think what Iden and I really aim to do is teach the basics and get [students] out of their comfort zones.”
Loessberg and Mozafari are prepared to take the challenge of being captains, as they are the only members that have been on Comedy Sportz for four years. Comedy Sportz provides a place for everyone where they can be themselves and have fun while performing improvisation games. “My favorite thing about Comedy Sportz is that I get to be who I am with no limitations and in a safe space where the audience is coming to see something up beat and high in energy,” Loessberg said. Being themselves and work hard at what they love is a feeling that Loessberg, Mozafari and the rest of the team love about Comedy Sportz. “When everything works out right in a game, everyone listens to each other, and the audience is laughing, that’s the best part of it,” Mozafari said. Loessberg and Mozafari encourage students to come to the matches and support the team. It’s the audience that makes the match the most fun.
Photo by Jesse Casey
Jumping for Comedy Sportz- Seniors Hannah Loessberg and Iden Mozafari begin the year in comedy Sportz.
Sports
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The Eagle Eye
Carrying on the Hawiian tradition
courtesy photo
Seniors Pua and Lei Jung manage to be student athletes while competitively performing as hula dancers. By Olivia Hernandez, Staff Writer and Rachel Tetreault, Web Editor-in-chief
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ribbling a basketball and hula dancing are two very different sports, however, senior twins, Pua and Lei Jung, are able to pull off both. They have been on the stage for almost 12 years and on the basketball court for almost seven. The sisters discovered hula dancing as a way to connect to their Hawaiian roots. They aspire to be like their biggest role models: their grandmother, their great aunt and their mother “We got involved from watching hula’s tradition being passed down from my grandmother and great aunt down to my mother,” said Pua. “It has always been a part of our lives, so when we were old enough to finally learn, we hopped on the opportunity.” The skills required to hula dance are not quite as simple as they seem. “You have to have a lot of patience to learn each step,” said
Lei. “For some people it is hard to be soft in their movements, but in the end of the day each step has to be gracefully executed”. Being able to move their hips is a key aspect of hula. They are able to not only gain these skills but also are able to gain a stronger sister relationship by performing together. “We are each other’s biggest fans and we love supporting one another,” Pua said. “We always watch out for one another more than we watch out for ourselves; it is fun having someone to live life with.” Every summer, the Jung sisters travel to major competitions, The Kumukahi competition in Las Vegas, Nevada and the Ia Oe E Ka La competition in Pleasanton, California, where their entire dance studio competes alongside them. “Lei and I normally place and do very well in every competition we enter,” Pua said. “A proud moment
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Student atheletes- Seniors Pua and Lei have a secret passion for hula dancing.
for us was in 2011. I was a soloist in my division and I placed first, and the next year in 2012, Lei was the soloist for the same division and she placed first as well. It’s kind of funny how it all worked and how
The new American Junior Kyle Galloway travels across the globe to attend SMCHS.
By Olivia Hernandez, Staff Writer and Hannah Prince, Print Editor-in-Chief Hut, hut, hike - is just one of the many phrases junior Kyle Galloway is getting familiar with as an exchange student from Sydney, Australia. “Sydney is home for me. My mum and dad [are there]. It was hard for them to let me come to [SMCHS], but they’ve supported me the entire time,” said Galloway. In the beginning of the year, Galloway began researching the variety of exchange programs throughout the world. His decision to come to the United States led him to SMCHS and his host family, the Cunninghams. For many students, transferring to a new school is nerve racking. Through sports, Galloway has been able to make new friends and form strong relationships. Making these relationships was easy for Galloway, but the transition between rugby to football has been much harder. On the turf at home, rugby is his main focus, alongside with track, but now, Galloway
represents SMCHS on the football field. Galloway plays cornerback, punter, and is on special teams. “One of the hardest aspects of the change [is football],” Galloway said. “I never thought in a million years that football would be hard; watching it on TV and playing it are two different things, and I don’t think Australians know how hard the sport really is--just the strategical aspect of it, most of all.” From morning lifting and afternoon field practices to game day, Galloway is constantly on a tight schedule. In addition, , the time difference between California and Sydney has finally worn off, leaving Galloway in full force for the season. “Rugby is a bit like football in the sense--you can’t pass forward, play without pads, and people check around laterals,” Galloway said. Besides the varying traditions in the U.S. and Australia, Galloway is only beginning this journey in life. Now, SMCHS will foster
his athletic and academic growth, until Sydney calls him home. “Everything is a little different [in the U.S.],” Galloway said. “But some of the key [differences] is we drive on the opposite side of the road, the food is different, people speak differently, our school starts at 9 so the hours took a bit of adjusting, the four seasons, and school [education styles] too.”
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Rugy to football-Junior Kyle Galloway moves to the United States to play football.
we were able to begin a winning streak in our studio for that category which we still have today.” Even when basketball season rolls around, they still manage to make time for their personal passion. “We find ways to make everything work, but it can get complicated at times,” Pua said. “Most times, its going straight from basketball practice in the morning to hula practices right after or vice versa. Between basketball games, hula shows, and practices for hula and basketball, we always find ways to make everything work.” Being able to compete in this sport and continue this tradition is something that both of them are glad to continue in high school. “We continue to dance through high school because it is something we have been doing since we can remember and it is a big part of our lives,” Pua said. As college is approaching, Lei
and Pua still want to pursue their passion as hula dancers, though it may be difficult. “We both want to dance when we are able to,” Lei said. “It is going to be hard to keep up with considering we won’t be going to the studio on a regular basis and being able to learn new songs or teach our classes every day since we will be in college.” Hula dancing is also a way for Pua and Lei to let go of any stress or difficulties they are facing at any time. “Most of our stress come from school, so the perfect way for our to relive our stress is hula. It works out in a weird way because it is like stress relievers for us,” Lei said. “Working out and [dancing] gets our mind off of our [school] workload and it totally takes our mind off of everything.” To see these sisters in action on the stage, check out the eagle eye website: smchseagle.com.
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The Eagle Eye
The perfect pitch
Senior Chandler Champlain achieves a long-term goal on the mound. By Rachel Tetreault, Web Editor-in-chief
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rom being on the local T-Ball team in Trabuco Canyon to being on national television, senior Chandler Champlain ignited his astonishing baseball career. Champlain’s love of baseball started at the age of three and at 14, opportunities arose. So far, Champlain has secured a college commitment to USC (University of Southern California), sponsorships, recognition on television and participation on high level baseball teams. “I play baseball because I love the game and it has treated me well throughout my life,” Champlain said. “Through baseball I have been able to commit to USC on a full-ride scholarship, [I became an] Under Armour All American and currently I am ranked in the top 10 of 2018 high school baseball pitchers in the [United States].” Champlain committed, as a
a t him,
Champlain trains every pitcher, to USC the age of 15 and day to stay in shape and according to mentally USC has been watching him since
play h i s first travel b a l l game in 2014. As a pitcher, Champlain’s scouting process was different from most players on the baseball field. He reflects on his own scouting process and remembers the intimidation and stress of it. The college coaches sit at homebase with a radar gun in hand and record the speed of each throw. Champlain’s fastest recorded throw was 95 miles per hour, but he is hoping to throw 98 mph by the time SMCHS baseball season starts.
physically with his dream of playing in Major League Baseball, or the MLB. In fact, Champlain is in the process of making his dream become reality by filling out 11 MLB forms in efforts to get drafted on June 4th, 2018. “The [MLB] forms require all of my personal, medical and athletic information,”
Champlain said. “From my uncle’s phone number, to the amount of bones I have in my body or x-rays I’ve had, the feeling is s u r r e a l . It’s crazy to think that my dream might actually come true and my goal might be in reach.” Champlain’s dream is to be drafted to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, the Chicago Cubs, or the Los Angeles Dodgers. Baseball is not only Champlain’s athletic career, but his passion and he can’t imagine life without it. “Baseball is my passion because I always find myself in my own world,” Champlain said. “I feel like I’m at home when I’m on the field […] and I love playing it.” Through hard work and the endless support of his parents,
sports agent a n d coaches, Champlain has also had the opportunity to make the Milwaukee Brewers Area Code Team, become an USA Baseball Alumnus, Trinity League First Team and is sponsored by Under Armour, New Balance and Gatorade. “[I have learned] to be humble because it’s a game of success or failure,” Champlain said. “[Baseball] can always punch you in the throat because it’s a hard sport even though people think its not. “
Fall varsity captains Fall captains hope to lead their teams to victory this season, through hard work and perseverance.
By Ryan Dunker, Sports Editor and Jesse Casey, Photo Editor
“Contrary to the opinion of many people, leaders are not born. Leaders are made, and they are made by effort and hard work,” former football player and coach, Vince Lombardi said. This fall season, seven sports teams including boys football, boys water polo, girls tennis, girls golf, girls volleyball, boys cross country and girls cross country will represent SM as they take on the Trinity League. The people leading these teams are not just the coaches but also the captains. According to these captains, they will do their
best to motivate and inspire their teammates to represent SM to the best of their ability. “[Being a captain] means holding my teammates and myself to higher standards which also means upholding SM’s reputation,” senior football captain, Alex Kilander said. “I love, serve and care for my teammates and we represent SM to our greatest ability.” According to most captains, they have more responsibilities than the average player, they are tasked with more obstacles, and must exemplify their leadership and compatibility within the sport. Their ability to work hard for their teammates and put more into the sport exemplifies the leadership
Girls Golf Captain Rylie Edwards
Girls Vollyball Captain Sarah Ciszek
“Being a captain to me is leading my team to be the best they can be both with their golf game and personally,” Edwards said.
“A captain is very competitive, knows what it takes to win, and leads and motivates others by example,” Ciszek said.
and dependability. “One way I motivate my teammates is by example. If my teammates see me working hard then it will motivate them to work hard. If I slack off then they will slack off,” senior cross country captain, Sean Byrne said. Most people can understand the idea that captains set the pace and dictate the intensity of training. If a captain slacks, then the team slacks; if the captain pushes himself then the team will push itself. In some cases, their performance in leadership can sometimes be responsible for how well a team preforms during practice or game. “We are very competitive, and
Water Polo Captain Noah Hodge
Girls Tennis Captain Caroline Harris
we have much experience which allows you to know what it takes to win,” senior volleyball captains, Devon Chang and Sarah Ciszek said. “We lead by example as well as work well together which makes us the perfect players for the captain positions.” Skill is not everything when it comes to being a captain. Instead, being able to work together as a team as well inspire a team is difficult in itself. Great captains say that they put the team before themselves and have their own unique ways of inspiring a team. “The energy you show prior to a practice or race is contagious so you always want to be excited and positive so that it carries on to the
“To me being a captainmeans to uphold the standard, love, care serve, and uphold eagle standards,” Kilander said.
“A good team captain is someone whose coach and teammates can rely on outside of practice,” Byrne said.
team,” junior cross country captain, Sophie Getz said. As a whole, taking on the captain position is not a simple task; for example, captains say that they take on more responsibilities and must be accountable for maintaining their teammates. They are there in times of need and defeat and they will bring the team up in times of victory and happiness. A captain’s hope is to lead the team to success and victory in the Trinity League. “As a captain you have to be a role model in and out of the sport,” senior cross country captain, Ian Howard said. “Be someone that anyone can come to for advice and also be a friend to anybody on the team.”
Boys Football Captain Alex Kilander
Boys Cross Country Captain Sean Byrne