Maturing is realizing that nothing is ever that deep

Natalia Kowalewska Production Editor

Iwasthe type of person who would apologize at the smallest inconvenience.

I apologized for saying the wrong thing, walking the wrong way, or looking in the wrong direction.

However, now looking back on my behavior, I can’t help but feel embarrassed.

Why was I so scared? Who was I trying not to annoy?

As a senior, I no longer have that familiar sense of fear and worry.

The curiosity of who likes me and who doesn’t no longer crosses my mind.

Recently, I came to realize that none of the little things ever really mattered.

I was the type of person that spoke each word with fragility.

Now, I’ve come to realize that no one even remembers what happened last week, let alone from freshman year.

I was the type of person who took each test as if it was my last.

Now, with the ability to see that my hard work paid off, I can’t even remember the AP World History test I bombed freshman year.

After four years, none of the things I wasted time and energy worrying about mattered.

None of them actually harmed my future—other than causing unnecessary stress habits.

Looking back at my freshman self, I wish I could grab her by the head and knock some sense into her.

Christina Paxhia Badminton

Christina Paxhia played varsity badminton for two years. As a cocaptain, she stood out because of her competitiveness and positivity. She organized pasta dinners and game nights for the team. Always one of the first to arrive at and last to leave practice, Paxhia was on the AllSectional team two years in a row. “Tina stands out athletically because she takes practice time seriously and always puts forth her best effort,” Coach Donna Schwan said. “She pushes herself and her teammates to be better each time they walk onto the court.” Paxhia will be studying Accounting at Indiana University.

Joeseph Ward Baseball

Joseph Ward was a triple threat— outfielder, pitcher, and catcher—for two years on the varsity baseball team. He had a batting average of .477 and an on-base percentage of .536, the highest of any senior player. “No matter what the situation called for, Joe was there to step up,” Coach Brian Lorenz said. “Playing multiple positions is of great value to a team and helps out the coach staff tremendously.” Ward’s teammates describe him as hard-working, caring, and passionate, according to Lorenz. He will be continuing his baseball career at Southwestern Iowa Community College.

Kaden Karstens Boys’ Basketball

Kaden Karstens was on the varsity basketball team for two years. He didn’t miss a single game or practice during his last season despite a demanding schedule. “Kaden embraced all of his new teammates with open arms,” Coach Colin Wehman said. “He routinely provided advice, encouragement and support both on and off the court for all of those within our program.” Despite this, Kaden remained humble. “His daily approach to school and athletics is centered around this humble nature and hard work,” Wehman said. Karstens will be attending the University of Utah.

Julia Beck Girls’ Basketball

Julia Beck played varsity basketball for two years as a team captain. Beck helped lead the team to win the CSL South and was Maine South’s representative for the CSL Sportsmanship Award. “Julia was an integral part of our program,” Coach Jeffrey Hamann said. “She always put the success of the team before her own. Julia also has always been one of the first to encourage her teammates when they make a positive play as well as being there for her teammates when their heads needed to be picked up after negative plays.” Beck will be attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Maddie Walker Cheerleading

Maddie Walker was a member of the varsity cheer team for three years as a main base, elite tumbler, and basket flyer. Walker embodied a strong positive attitude throughout her time on the team. “She was the biggest motivator for the team at practices and at competitions to continue to work hard and not give up,” Coach Stacy Pater said. “She always had a smile on her face and brought such a positive attitude to the team.” She assisted the team her sophomore and senior year to make it to the state competition. Walker will be on the Division I cheerleading team at the University of Minnesota next year.

Joseph Karlesky Boys’ Cross Country

Joseph Karlesky ran cross country for the varsity team for three years and was the team captain. He holds the fourth best time on the Maine South home course and the 27th best State time in the school’s history. He was also the Regional champion, 2nd in Conference, and 31st in State during his senior season. “Joey is always in a great mood and is positive for the team,” Coach Greg Nordahl said. “He was supportive of his teammates and consistently displayed great sportsmanship all season.” Karlesky is attending the University of Illinois Springfield, where he will run cross country and track.

Caitlin Seurynck Girls’ Cross Country

Caitlin Seurynck was on varsity cross country for three years. She placed 8th in Conference and helped the team win the Conference and Regional meets, as well as qualify for State. As a captain, she was described as determined, caring, and hardworking by the team. “Her teammates learn a great deal about how to approach a sport with dignity and class just by watching Caitlin every day,” Coach Jeff Downing said. “She is one of the very best role models and captains we have ever had in our program.” Caitlin will be attending the University of Wisconsin Madison next year.

Emmet Wolf Football

Emmet Wolf has been a defensive tackle and linebacker starter for two years on the varsity team. He was a two-time All-Conference performer and was selected as the Defensive Player of the Year in the CSL South. Emmet helped the team to win two CSL South championships, as well as make it to the 8A State finals in 2021 and the quarterfinals in 2022. “Emmet is a quiet man,” Coach David Inserra said. “He doesn’t say a word, but does all his talking with his play. He is super humble and extremely hard-working.” In the fall, he will play Division I football at the University of North Dakota.

Ryan Belz Boys’ Golf

Ryan Belz has been a starter on the varsity team for two years. During that time, Belz was a ninetime medalist. This year he also earned CSL All-Conference honors, and qualified individually for the state tournament, finishing in the top 40. The team followed last year's successful 5-2 season last year with a 5-3 record this year in head-to-head matches. Belz not only played golf, but was on the Maine Hockey team for four years as an alternate captain. He was also All-Conference this year for hockey. In the fall, Belz will be playing golf for Oakton Community College.

Margaret Woods Girls’ Golf

Margaret Woods has been on the varsity team for three years and MVP for both the 2022 and 2023 seasons. Woods placed top ten in conference for two years, and was a three-season sectional qualifier. “She has inspired younger players to work hard and improve their skills, and has set a high standard of excellence for future team members,” Coach Kayla Hansen said. “Her leadership skills were also evident, as she provided a positive example for her teammates using golf knowledge and confidence to empower herself and her team.” In the fall, Woods will be attending Drexel University.

Lindsay Majerczak Gymnastics

Lindsay Majerczak was one of the gymnastics team captains this year, often starting practices and planning team-building activities for the team. She was a top performer for the JV team, and made frequent contributions to the varsity team. This year, she was the All-Around Champion at the Niles West Star is Born Invitational. “She is always there for you no matter what is going on,” Coach Heidi Bowbin said. “She truly stepped up to the challenge of being one of this year’s team captains. She is one of the best team players there is.” Majerczak will be attending the University of Kansas.

Madison Gatz Hawkettes

Madison Gatz was a varsity Hawkette for four years, including two on varsity as captain. Throughout her four years, Gatz won a National Championship as well as Conference Championships. “Her dedication to her teammates has been nothing short of remarkable, and we are all grateful for the hard work she has put into making our team the best it can be,” Coach Casey Fritz said. “In the years to come, dancers will strive to be the leader that Madison was. She has left a lasting impression on her fellow teammates and the program.” She will be attending the University of Illinois.

Peter Koepke Boys' Hockey

Peter Koepke has been on the varsity team for three years as a defensive player. He was the captain and selected to not only be an AllConference athlete but also one of only six defensemen selected for the All-Illinois tournament team. “[Peter] couldn’t have accomplished much more as an individual this season,” Coach Greg Mrofcza said. “Peter’s impact will be felt on next season’s team as players still with the club recall his efforts and successes.” He is described as a quiet leader and a cool head under pressure. Koepke hopes to play club-level hockey while attending the University of Illinois.

Sean Mullan Boys' Lacrosse

Sean Mullan has played on the varsity team for four years. During that time, he set the record for the most goals scored in one season. Teammates would describe Mullan as hard working and talented on the field. “He leads by example everyday in practice and games,” Coach Camerin Staffel said. “Sean will do anything to help the team. Sean’s leadership and commitment to the program has pushed the program forward, since he has been a part of the lacrosse team. He has made a significant impact on and off the field.” Mullan will be playing Division I lacrosse at Marist University.

Katelyn Gleason Girls' Lacrosse

Katelyn Gleason has been on the varsity team for three years playing midfield and defense. Teammates describe her as a humble and compassionate competitor, who always has the team’s best interest in mind. She helped coach local teams and taught underclassmen how to play. In 2022, Gleason received the CSL sportsmanship award. “Katelyn has been an ambassador not only for Maine South Lacrosse, but also for the sport in general… Her passion for lacrosse is clear the minute you meet her,” Coach William Pankratz said. Gleason will be playing lacrosse at Mercyhurst University.

Antonio Grimaldi Boys' Soccer

Antonino Grimaldi was a twoyear varsity midfielder, including one year as captain. He played on the Illinois All-Sectional team, and was also chosen to be a Pioneer Press All-Area, Central Suburban AllConference, and Waubonsie Valley All-Tournament player. Antonino was also an IHSA and CSL ScholarAthlete. “Nino is a player who has quality technical skills, patience with the ball, and the vision necessary to create effective build-ups for his team,” Coach Daniel States said. Grimaldi will be attending Oakton Community College, where he will continue to play soccer.

Ryen Desmedt Girls’ Soccer

Ryen Desmedt was a four-year varsity soccer player for Maine South. She played defense and was selected to be captain by her teammates for both her junior and senior years. Desmedt was voted All-Conference for the CSL in 2022. She has always been a selfless team player, described as someone who leads by example. “She won’t ask her teammates to do things she wouldn’t be willing to do herself,” Coach JJ Crawford said. “She is selfless and willing to play for the team. She is a great teammate and considerate of others.” Desmedt will be studying Neuroscience at the University of Montana.

Samantha Bergeron Softball

Samantha Bergeron has played varsity softball for three years as a pitcher, 1st baseman, and outfielder. Bergeron is praised for her work ethic and dedication to the sport. “Samantha is everything a coach could ask for. She has done everything and more asked of her by coaches as well as teammates,” Coach Emilia Pasier said. “She may not say a lot, but she is always studying the game and is ready whenever her number is called. Sammie has taught the program that if you want something, keep working hard for it.” Bergeron will continue to play softball at the University of Wisconsin-Stout.

Bart Kubis Boys’ Swimming

Bart Kubis, an All-Conference and All-State swimmer as well as this year’s Sectional Champion, swam three years on varsity. He was the team captain and specialized in the breaststroke and sprint freestyle events. Over the past two seasons, he broke a total of eight school records both individually and in relays. “Bart was the heart and soul of the boys’ swim and dive team this past year,” Coach Donald Kura said. “Bart brought the absolute best effort that he could every single day, in an effort to be the best leader and athlete he could be.” Kubis is going to John Carroll University in the fall.

Chloe Bai Girls’ Swimming

Chloe Bai was on the varsity team for four years and swam freestyle, breaststroke, and IM. Bai was a team captain and played an instrumental role in helping younger members of the swim and dive team. “Chloe’s commitment to excellence every day at practice and meets helped set a tone that our underclassmen could look to follow,” Coach Donald Kura said. “Chloe showed what it truly meant to be a coachable athlete.” Bai was a medalist at both the CSL South Conference Meet and the IHSA Sectional Meet in the 100 breaststroke. She will be attending the University of Florida.

Jack Hartung Boys’Tennis

Jack Hartung played varsity tennis for four years. He competed at the top of the line-up every year, allowing him to play against the toughest players in the state. He qualified for the State tournament for doubles during his sophomore year. Jack’s teammates elected him to be a team captain because they saw him as a leader, motivator, and hard worker. “It takes tremendous focus and conditioning to be able to play at the highest level for every match,” Coach Gerald Smith said. “Jack is not only an exceptional tennis player but an even better teammate.” Hartung will be attending Bucknell University.

Eva Zaskowski Girls’ Tennis

Eva Zaskowski has been on the varsity team for four years. Zaskowski competed in both doubles and singles matches. In 2021 she qualified for State, earning second team All-State honors, and this season she was named to the CSL All- Conference team. “Not only is Eva an exceptional tennis player, she is an even better teammate. She is a great motivator and worked very hard to make everyone feel welcome, even the underclassman,” Coach Gerald Smith said. “Eva has always shown a never-quit attitude.” Zaskowski will be playing Division III tennis at North Central University.

William Huddleston Boys’ Track & Field

William Huddleston has been a member of the varsity team for two years, specializing in the 400 and 800 meter races. Huddleston has broken the state qualifying mark for the 800 meter run multiple times during the indoor season, finishing fifth at the Illinois Top Times Meet. “Will’s teammates would describe him as a dedicated and focused athlete who has set lofty goals for himself and put in the hard work needed to reach these goals,” Coach Jason Kacprowski said. This fall, Huddleston will continue to run both cross country and track at the University of Illinois-Chicago.

Girls’ Track & Field Morgan Gioia

Morgan Gioia was a three-year varsity athlete. She specialized in the 400, 800, and 1600 meter events. Gioia ran a top-ten time in Maine South history for the 800-meter race.

“Morgan really wants the entire team to succeed and is willing to help lead by example to achieve the goals that were set forth by the entire squad,” Coach Jeff Downing said. “The other athletes watch her leadership and determination and they begin to understand what it takes to be successful. She has left a legacy that hard work and determination pay off.”

Gioia will continue to run at Division I Northern Illinois University.

Adrian & Lorian Danciu

Boys’ Volleyball

Adrian and Lorian have been on the varsity team for three years. Both twins play middle hitter and have a 400-plus hitting percentage. Athletes describe the Danciu brothers as unstoppable on the court. “They are loud as thunder on the court… a great energy spark for our team,” Coach Garrett Fechner said. “Their mantra has been to outwork everybody in the gym they are also two of the most coachable players I have worked with in my almost 20 years at Maine South.” The Danciu brothers will both be attending the University of Illinois Chicago to study computer engineering.

Sophia Boborci Girls’ Volleyball

Sophia Boborci competed as a Setter for two years on varsity. She led as team captain, described by her teammates as the glue that held their team together. When games began to unravel, Sophia often started huddles to help her teammates refocus. She had the highest number of assists on the team, and also earned a spot on the All-Conference team, one of only two Maine South players to do so. “Sophia will be remembered for her amazing positive attitude and strong work ethic,” Coach Kathleen Durkin said. Boborci is continuing to play volleyball at Division II Mount Mercy University.

Joshua Torres-Jackson Boys’ Water Polo

Joshua Torres-Jackson played on varsity for three years as a goalie and driver. Beginning as a shallow-end goalie, he then progressed to a deepend goalie and finally a field-playing starter. There, he became the team’s “Hardest shooter and top scorer,” according to Coach Terrence Lyons. Lyons said that this change was unusual but highly beneficial to the team’s strategy. It also showed Torres-Jackson’s dedication to improvement. Lyons also described him as a “fun-loving and determined” athlete. Torres-Jackson will be attending Penn State-Berendt, where he will play Division III water polo.

Isabella Landerghini Girls’ Water Polo

Isabella Landerghini has played wing, point, and goalie for the varsity team this year, and she has been able to adjust to any role she is put into. She has been both a field player and a goalie for the team this season, which is not very common. Landerghini was a captain and a role model for the younger players on the team. “She is always looking for ways to help others improve both in and out of the water,” Coach Paulina Pappas said. “Her contagious laugh and smile make everyone around her feel welcome on the team.” Landerghini will be continuing her studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Nathan Beltran Boys’ Wrestling

Nathan Beltran has played on the varsity team for all four years. Beltran was an IHSA State qualifier and a two-time IHSA Regional champion. Members of the team would describe Beltran as selfless and a teammate who is always there for others. “Nathan is exactly what every coach hopes to have in an athlete: he is a tremendous person, a great student and a skilled athlete,” Coach Kevin Hansen said. “He showed technique to the entire varsity team regularly. Most importantly Nathan is a person of integrity—someone you can trust to do the right thing regardless of the circumstances.”

Angela Lee Girls’ Wrestling

Angela Lee was a varsity wrestler for three years. In the sport’s first season with a separate girls’ team, she took on the role of Captain, earned a record of 30-4, and placed 5th in State. She finished 1st in multiple tournaments. She also had the honor of competing in the Illinois vs. Indiana Dual Meet. Coach Juan Diaz described Lee as “tough, hard-working, focused, and determined.” As both a CSL and IHSA Scholar-Athlete, she showed excellence both in the sport and in the classroom. She will be attending Quincy University, where she will continue wrestling competitively.