saying goodbye to the
Class of 2015
Table of Contents
News....................................................1 Opinions...........................................2 Features............................................8 Arts&Entertainment..............14 Sports..................................................18
Letter (to) the Editors
Dear Jenny and Celine,
Congratulations to all of our seniors! We will miss you!
Oh, wow... You guys are seniors now. Some of us have been with you all four years while others only got to spend a few months. In perspective, however, nobody will disagree if I say that you profoundly impacted our lives in amazing ways. From teaching InDesign, helping out with Photoshop, extending deadlines, to just giving high school advice, the two of you have always been amazingly helpful and kind to us. This year was one of the best years the Paw Print has seen. As you pass the baton off to Minjae and Aaron, please don’t forget about us and come and visit! We miss you; we love you! Good luck at college! Love, The Paw Print Staff
“Looking back on my four years and seeing all the things that we as a class have accomplished brings joy to my soul.” — Class of ‘15 President Jacob Shalkevich
IRENE
KYOUNG I cannot believe that my time to write this senior reflection has finally come to me. My time spent here at West Ranch was really just a big test of my academic perseverance, patience, and sanity. I made it so I can finally pat myself on the back! From my experience reading the senior reflections from previous years, I realized that many seniors offer words of advice. Mine? Do not let a number define you. It does not matter whether you scored a 24 or a 34 on the ACT. Your standardized test scores may or may not ding you a bit during the college admissions process but there are numerous factors that go into play. Being a good student helps though, you know? Teacher recommendations and interview evaluations on top of your essays (that are not written the hour before submission deadlines) add personality to your application. You can only get good marks
SENIOR
REFLECTIONS “You will cry, but you will also laugh, a lot. You will make many wonderful friends, ones that will last a lifetime and you will experience your first taste of freedom.”
I still remember freshman orientation. The first time I walked through West Ranch’s gates, an excited eighth grader ready to start my high school career I still believed girls wore heels to school (biggest disappointment of my life, by the way). The newness of West Ranch quickly wore off as I realized the truth behind high school. Everyone always says, “High school will be the best years of your life,” but what they don’t tell you is that the awkwardness of freshman and sophomore year will be cringe-worthy. It’s a time that, unfortunately, greatly overshadows the two good years. Classes will be hard for three years (Do seniors even have to go to class?), you will not come out with many of the friends you came in with, you will do stupid stuff and get in trouble
2
www. wrpawprint.com
| The Pawprint | Opinions
if you are a nice, insightful person, not someone who labels others based on their test scores. Also, joining student organizations helps quite a bit in every way. Having come from Rio Norte (while the majority of West Ranch came from Rancho Pico), I started off high school as the person who had no idea who a single person at this school was. I barely socialized and when I attempted to be a normal human, it was awkward. Joining organizations such as DFYIT, Mock Trial, and Journalism really helped me meet new people and realize that these organizations exist to allow every student to utilize their talents and showcase them in a media of their choice. I do not know if my participation in these clubs had influence over my college acceptances. But frankly, it does not matter as I gained life skills that can only be developed in those specific environments. Take an advantage of these clubs and join the ones that will foster your interests and expand your breadth of knowledge. You really do not have much to lose there! Also, when it comes to the point where you feel a slump coming in your academic, extracurricular, or social career, do not give up. You will have the teacher from hell, the coach who is the devil in disguise, or “friends” who have arisen from the underworld. Yes the teacher who refuses to bump your grade may have something against you. And yes, you will cycle through quite a few friends. You will get through the
troubles; I got through the troubles. But you won’t really get through the rejection letter from your dream employment due to a snarky, rude comment you left on Twitter a few years ago. Being a kid is hard. Making decisions that will impact the rest of your life is hard. However, everyone is on this terrible and exciting journey together! I hope the road will be smoother when I leave this shade-less campus and make the transition from a Wildcat to a Polar Bear (go Bowdoin!) and freeze my butt off in Maine. Wish me luck!
CLASS OF
for it, and you will hit rock bottom. You will cry, but you will also laugh: a lot. You will make many wonderful friends, ones that will last a lifetime and you will experience your first taste of freedom. I learned that not everything goes my way, but that doesn’t mean I can’t keep going and something better isn’t waiting for me. If I would give everyone left at West Ranch one piece of advice, it would be, “don’t try too hard.” I know teachers and counselors all over the world are shuddering at that statement, so let me clarify. I don’t mean spend all of your free time watching Netflix and putting off homework (you have to save something for senior year). I simply mean don’t spend all of high school with your nose in a textbook, trying to learn 50,908,319,749 digits of Pi. Use this time to explore, learn about yourself, or get a job. It’s the last four years of your life that will be fully paid for by your parents, so take advantage of that. As I wrap this story up along with my senior year, I realize I’m not going to miss my high school years. It was a wild ride, these past four years, but I’m ready for a new adventure. I have to continue moving forward because life is not meant to be traveled backwards unless you’re Benjamin Button, of course.
2015
CELIA
HOFMANN
I think by now it’s safe to say we’ve all figured out high school is not like the movies. Freshmen don’t get dumped in trash cans or stuffed in lockers (not that we have any to do so), food fights aren’t breaking out constantly (although there have been a couple notable ones during my time here), and choreographed musical numbers don’t begin without warning. So basically, we’re no high school musical. Though all the stories from relatives on both ends of the claiming high school was the best four years of his life or muttering they were the worst four of his, I personally think high school is a pretty middle-of-the-road experience. It wasn’t traumatizing, but I’d like to think I’ve still got some good years on the way. One outstanding experience of mine is not a moment, but a process; it’s clear to me that I am not the same person I was that walked—or more like tripped— through the gate on my first day of freshman year, but we’ll get to that later. So to represent my growth (not literally, I’m 5’4 on a good day), I’ve compiled a mini crash course school survival guide of tips I’ve collected over these last four years. No. 1: you remember your own embarrassing moments more than anyone else. And trust me, I’ve had more than a fair share of these. From tripping on the red carpet on my very
first day of high school to face-planting in front of the entire varsity baseball team, I’ve realized those “oh-God-just-strike-me-downnow-because-I’ll-never-get-over-somethinglike-this” moments actually aren’t such a big deal. People will laugh, you may even cry, but then life goes on and, honestly, no one really cares. Think about this: when you have a giant zit on your face, no one is more aware of that blemish than you are. Believe me, telling yourself no one cares more about the fall or mishap more than you goes far. No. 2: Numbers don’t define you. Whether it be GPA, test scores, or number of clubs in which you participate, these stats don’t add to or diminish your worth. In a school as academically driven as ours, it may seem like a grade on a test or class ranking is all that matters. But looking at the big picture, this is one little number in the grand scheme of things. I feel extremely confident that six months from now I will not care if I was ranked 20th or 21st. It won’t matter if I got four cords for graduation or only two or none. These small markers of our education can be easy to fall victim to, becoming so engrossed in hitting that 4.0 GPA, earning a 4.4, or aiming to achieve a 4.8. These small but seemingly significant tenths of a point don’t represent
C E L I N E K I N E R
I cringe when I think of the little (just kidding, I haven’t grown an inch since) freshman that stepped onto West Ranch campus four years ago. Actually, I tiptoed; I was afraid to make too much noise. I was timid beyond belief, incapable of making any new friends for fear that they might be--gasp--different. It made my freshman year really painful, to be quite honest. And my sophomore year. It wasn’t until halfway through junior year that I realized, finally, that I was no better than anyone else, and that if I would simply be less judgmental, I would find that all of my peers were actually way more equipped than me for any and every social aspect of high school. I
character, personality, or passion. Long story short, don’t get too caught up in the numbers. Cue cheesy motivational quote about learning to get back up after falling like I did. But in all honesty, I hope you too have/had great experiences full of awkward mishaps, exciting successes, and trying failures. Not to dwell on tripping at school too much (seriously, I fell a lot), but I hope you all figured out walking sooner than I did, and if not, hey we’ve got some great conversation-starters for the great beyond. Stay gold, Wildcats.
J A M I E M E Y E R
eventually came to accept the fact that I had to live a little. a lot to learn. It took a period of wallowing in A major reason I survived high school self pity before I even began to change into would be the teachers I befriended: special the person I wanted to be, and I’m still not thanks to Mr. Hughes and Mrs. Brosche, if there yet. But that’s okay, that’s what high you’re reading this. Feeling less terrified of your teachers and more like they’re there to school is for. As cliche as “finding yourself” may sound, assist you can make all the difference in your to some degree it’s what I did here, in these approach to academics. I highly recommend four years. I have concluded that I’m really it. Also, I know it’s taboo to actually like your glad high school preceded college, because teachers (nobody wants to be called a “tryalthough I may still be socially inept, at least hard”) but they’re people too; in fact, they’re I’ll be less socially inept when I meet new adults with experience on their shoulders people in college. I cannot stress how much and wisdom to offer. I can’t tell you how more content I am now that I’m past spending many times Mr. Hughes’ advice has proved hours browsing YouTube and now spend invaluable, or how many times his dry humor time with actual, real people. Friends are nice has made my day. (although I’m sure people that know me are And thank goodness I had dance class to look wondering what friends I’m talking about). forward to. Since my peers there were all As the senioritis takes hold, I’m starting to older than me and morally obligated to be my be able to look back fondly on those times friend, I felt safe and loved in my community. last year when I got absolutely no sleep. Dance in itself was my saving grace. I could Maybe not quite fondly, but the bitterness immerse myself in it no matter my social is subsiding. My freshman, sophomore, and situation, and it continues to be something I junior years, I worked really, really hard to really love. keep my grades up, until I learned from my Keep in mind that high school is temporary. older brother that in high school there are a It’ll come to pass eventually, so find a few cases where you can get the same grade passion, take the good with the bad and try to without fainting from stress in class the next enjoy yourself; I’ve learned it’s much easier day (yeah, I did that. Fortunately, Mrs. O’shea that way. caught me). Once I figured that out, I was able Opinions | The Pawprint | www. wrpawprint.com
3
“Take a deep breath as you walk through the doors it’s the moment of your very first day,” well what Taylor Swift doesn’t prepare you for is how quickly that first day turns into your last, and all of those days in between, which seem to pass by so slow at the moment, are gone in a blink of an eye. It’s funny, I never really noticed a difference in my 15 year-old-self to my almost 18-yearold self until I had to sit down and write this reflection. I guess that’s what high school is all about, making memories. If I can leave you with one piece of advice it would be live in the moment. School is important, getting good grades is important, but please don’t spend these four years memorizing that AP calculus book. I couldn’t tell you about the time I stayed in Friday night studying for that test on Monday, but I can tell you all about the time my friends and I stumbled upon an abandoned zoo in LA or made cookie dough and watched Netflix till we puked. This brings me to the second most important thing in high school: your support system. I’m sorry to break this to you but the people standing by your side freshman year are not always the ones to be there. People change, and you will too. That being said once you find your true friends cherish them. Camille, Jace, Kyra, and Amanda thank you for being my second family. The thought of having
Alexa Hesseldenz
Class of
Dear Seniors
I like the seniors, They’re good people. No complaints. (Should be noted this was all said in a sarcastic tone.) -Bryce Fenenbock, Freshman
We non-seniors have a lot to say about you. We’ll miss you, but mostly we have a lot of complaints.
Jenny Lee is okay, I guess. -Gisela Factora, Junior I don’t have anything good to say about them. -Raylene Factora, Freshman
4
www. wrpawprint.com
to say goodbye in the next couple months is breaking my heart, but I know we have a bond that will last a lifetime. Here’s another funny thing I learned: guys make pretty good friends too and you don’t need a relationship to be happy. For some reason, it’s been ingrained that you need a boyfriend/girlfriend to be socially expectable. High school is about discovering who YOU are. You have your whole life to be married to someone. Surround yourself with a bunch of guys friends, sometimes the are easier to be with than girls. Jacob, Blake, Brendan, Sergiu, and Michael. Thank you for showing me that you can love someone platonically and for always having my back. You guys are the best brothers I never had. The final point I want to make is: your parents can actually be pretty cool. When you are feeling lost they are the people you should lean on. Your parents are your only constants. Make an effort to hang out with them as much as possible. Don’t be afraid to tell them they are doing a good job every now and then. Hey mom and dad, you are doing a pretty good job. Well, I guess it’s time for me to start the next chapter of my life. Thank you West Ranch for allowing me to blossom in this short amount of time. The memories and relationships I have made here will stay with me forever. Stay beautiful Wildcats!
| The Pawprint | Features
I’ll have nostalgia for abotu ten seconmds... and then I’m going to forget about them forever. -Jong Hak Won, Sophomore Later. -Jaeun Park, Sophomore With these seniors gone, I’m one step closer to taking over the newspaper. -Morgan Smith, Sophomore Imma miss deez nuts. -Nikhil Bhumralkar, Junior
LET ME TELL YOU SOMETHING− HIGH SCHOOL IS NOT WHAT THEY TELL YOU IT IS. High school is not a time in which you find out who you are and what you want to do, and then college isn’t really a time in which you can prepare for whatever you want to do. IF YOU WANT TO SUCCEED, YOU BETTER KNOW WHAT YOU WANT TO DO BY THE END OF JUNIOR HIGH AND USE HIGH SCHOOL TO GET THERE. You might think I’m exaggerating but I’m not. Do your future self a favor and at least start looking into what you want to do, and make a plan. When I first began high school, I had a general goal in mind, and I took AP and Honors classes and I had a lot of different extracurriculars. I thought, “Maybe if I do all of these different things, I’ll find out in the end what it is I really want to do and what kind of person I want to be.” But honestly, I still don’t have all the answers I wanted. So do your future self a favor and start now. But setting aside the lecture, I want to tell you that you will learn some crazy things in high school. Honestly, in some part of high school you will become more aware and really confused. And you will also learn that there are some things in your life you have no control over.
For me, high school was alright at first. The only worries in my life were school and sleep, but eventually I started to worry about other things. You will realize that eventually, people you used to spend time with will stop saying “hi.” People you thought you knew will turn out to be different from what you expected. You will realize that your true friends are the ones who changed with you. High school may seem terrible but it’s not, unless you make it terrible for yourself. I’m thankful for my experience because I learned a lot of positive things. I decided that the only opinion that matters is mine (and my mother’s). High school has a lot of great people in it and if you’re kind, honest, and sometimes funny, they will respect you. I cannot say how thankful I am for the opportunity to have developed so many new friendships. I lost a lot of friends, but I gained many new and better ones, and that’s all that matters. Also, I learned that you should value the education you have and take serious advantage of it. I have made so many valuable memories I wouldn’t trade for anything in the world, and I have so many friends I love. So yeah, high school really isn’t what they tell you it is. But high school is what you make of it. Take advantage of it, and accept what it throws at you.
Jenny Lee
2015 For the longest time, I prided myself on absolutely, irrefutably, not being a “highschool person.” I rolled my eyes at rallies and homecoming themes, and crossed my arms at immature freshmen--and seniors. I had too many frustrated moments over hours of busy-work homework; worried I was wasting my time, but not doing enough for my future. Suddenly it hit me as I was driving alone up Valencia Blvd, twenty-five minutes late to my first period class. After I slammed the last of my Earl Grey tea, I was overtaken by the sight of the sun kissing the mountains. Like poetry, the heat of the sun coaxed the dew to evaporate in a pilgrimage of mist to the sky. The soft golden glow smoothed the brokenness of jagged rocks and edges on the hillside, while illuminating the oft-ignored beauty of fragrant sage in bloom. That’s when I remembered. In my heart I thanked my teachers who inspired me to grow and challenge myself. I recalled the thrill of driving to school on my own for the first time on the first day of junior year. I felt the commitment to a baptism of red sand when I slid to second base for the first time as a sophomore in softball. Also, I smiled about a similar commitment to being enveloped by white clay up to my elbows, like dainty lady’s gloves, during Ceramics. I thought of my friends and their perspectives- how our journeys were so parallel yet so different. I could almost hear the hushed tones of juicy gossip and
the rowdy laughter shared from ‘Our Table.’ Conversely I weighed the ache of loneliness against the bliss of solitude, both often felt. I felt them in my memories, and embraced my homesickness by engaging in bi-monthly treks to the shaded forest beside Bouquet Canyon Falls. If I had all day, I could spend it all remembering. Instead, I pull into my favorite spot in the smallest row closest to the upper campus gate. I gather my vintage bag and tattered binder from freshman year. One last time I check my lipstick in the rear-view mirror. And with the clip-clop sound of summer wedges, I’ll never admit to being a ‘highschool person.’ However, high school did serve as a valuable stepping stone. I learned patience is a virtue worth developing. I found out the hard way that honest friendships couldn’t be formed until I was comfortable with being my own best friend. Moreover, once I quit apologizing for being myself; I was finally free from any perceived expectations of others, and the ones which I had been putting on myself. But most of all, I learned to take a step back to appreciate the small things, to realize time is temporary and precious, and to never underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep. From growing up to going out into a new chapter of my journey, everything looks a little nicer in the amber glow of morning.
Emily Beroth
Opinions | The Pawprint | www. wrpawprint.com
5
WEST RANCH’S OWN MARCO TORRES Layout by Celine Kiner
Growing up in El Salvador
I grew up in an environment where being a homosexual is looked down upon, being called “gay” is an insult, and any sight of two people of the same gender showing any kind of affection is seen as disgusting. As I made my big move here to the U.S. my sophomore year, I had mixed feelings of fear, confusion and relief at the openness of American society toward gays. It took me awhile to feel completely comfortable with my identity (I was brainwashed into believing it was a choice) but if you know me, you know that I won’t try to either hide or avoid the topic.
American Progress
Indeed, we have come a long way with the increased acceptance of the LGBT community. The gay rights movement has definitely been the last most effective civil rights movement in the U.S. Look at how many states today have legalized gay marriage, and how many high schools have active gay-straight alliances with openly gay and proud students. It’s truly remarkable. But as my days in high school come to an end, I’d like to reflect on some issues that I believe are still present today. I do believe that homophobia is still an issue today, walking around campus listening to students making comments like “that’s so gay” or “you’re such a fa----.”
Civil Rights
But then again, sexism and racism are still a problem as well. I think there is a bigger fight for us than the “homohysteria”, or the fear of being socially perceived as gay, and that is with our education system. In 2015, schools should be discussing about different families in the community: ranging from same sex
What We Want
We are only a few months away from starting a completely new chapter in our lives: college. A lot of us are set to spend another 10 years in school studying medicine, law, or engineering: careers that guarantee a six-digit salary right off of college. But what about the rest of us? The ones who want to immerse in the business world, communications, or the arts? With the cost of college tuition increasing every year, it puts our parents and ourselves in a dilemma knowing that although these are very fulfilling, exciting, and well paid careers, these do not start out with best positions or the best pay rates.
What to Ask Yourself
Take it from me, for example, I am majoring in Public Relations/ Image Management. I hope one day to hold an executive position at a Public Relations firm and be producing shows for the best brands, creating press releases around the world. These are jobs that are not given to just anyone, mainly because they require an insane amount of experience in the field. Therefore, it makes me wonder: how much can I actually learn in the classroom compared to what I’ll learn in the real world? Should I be giving my money to a firm instead to get myself a dream internship, and start getting on the job experience? I believe these are the most important questions you should start asking yourself when choosing your schools.
6O
pinions
| The Pawprint | www. wrpawprint.com
couples to single parents, etc., without it being a taboo. Schools should be recognizing and teaching about LGBT history in the classroom, as sexual orientation is an identity, just like race, gender, or ethnicity. We should be learning about the Stonewall Riots, just as we learn about the Montgomery Bus Boycott or the desegregation of Little Rock Central High School. In the same way, high schools should have the obligation to discuss more openly and broadly about sexual education. In fact, there is a first-nation bill that was passed by the California Legislature and signed by Governor Jerry Brown in 2011 that Wrequires social studies classes to teach about contributions of gay, bisexual and transgender people throughout history.
What
we
Have Accomplished
When I sit down to get coffee with my mentor, Scott, who has been happily married with his husband for fourteen years, and tell him about how open our school is, he can’t contain his happiness. He tells me that these are the things that make him sleep better at night, remembering the way things were when he was our age. So when I look back to where I came from, and where I am now, I can’t be anything but grateful to be surrounded by such an open-minded community. And even though we have a long way to go, we have already accomplished a lot. Let’s take the openness of our school outside of campus, and into our homes, communities, our worlds, and allow more and more people to feel comfortable with their identity, just like you guys allowed me.
...on homosexuality... Will it be worth it to come out with a six-digit student loan debt, when you’ll most likely start earning around $40,000 a year with a bachelor’s degree. Of course, a higher education can teach you the techniques, the special jargon, and how the different industries work, but that’s about it. Beyond that, you really have to figure it out on your own. You either have it in you or you don’t.
The Difference Between
I have to say, I am more convinced every day how beyond a college education is to be a good professional, networking my might be just as important. It doesn’t matter where you graduated from, or how prepared you think you are for a position, the ones who know the right people, will always, most likely, get that job. That’s just the real, cold truth about the competitiveness in our world today. So go for that internship, meet everyone, go for that master’s degree, and keep climbing your way into that dream job. I’m just not sure how much all those hours studying will help in the end when you look back, compared to those hours crying because your boss completely destroyed your business plan in front of everyone. I am sure, though, that at this point, we are all ready to enjoy the freedom and new opportunities that our college lives will bring.
...and on college.
Daniel Lee 4.78
Vs
Tyler Szeto
“
by Sarah Castillo & Jacqueline Hofmann
you thing, but y r e v e o d s.” You can’t our battle y e s o o h c have to
What schools have you been accepted to and which school are you attending? I applied to 20 schools. I was accepted to UCLA, USC, UCSB, UCSD, UC Berkeley, Purdue, University of Washington, University of Michigan. I never really had a first choice dream school, but I want to leave my options open until the very end. What are you looking forward to in college/ out of high school? I’m looking forward to seeing my friends after high school. I’m also looking forward to starting over with a clean slate; I’ve learned a lot from high school, I’ve learned from my mistakes, I know exactly what to do in college, I’m set. What clubs or sports did you participate in, if any? The main clubs I was active in were Future Doctors Association, Future Lawyer’s Club, Lifeline Christian Club, Key Club, CSF, FBLA, NHS, and Mock Trial. I’m not in a sport: I know if you’re in a sport, you come home late from practice everyday, but I did taekwondo for 10 years. I’m a third-degree black belt.
What are you planning to major in? Biochemistry. I want to go into medical research. I just wanna help others; a lot of people in my life have experienced medical complications, and seeing them while I was not able to help them made me want to dedicate my life to helping people. Is it honestly worth it? You can’t do everything, but you have to choose your battles. You can go for valedictorian but in exchange, you couldn’t have done a sport, or join ASB, or participate in as many clubs. In the end, it’s really up to you. What I’ve learned from getting accepted and denied from colleges is that GPA isn’t everything; they like to see students who are well-rounded and sometimes How do you feel, knowing that you are valedictorian? I’m glad that my hard work paid off in the end. I’m proud of it, but I don’t want to use it as bragging rights. I know humble people usually don’t say this, but I want to stay humble. It’s not really something I could brag about. It wasn’t just me; a lot of people helped me out along the way. How many APs and Honors did you take over? 14 APs and five Honors.
4.75
“
The work you put in, will most likely be the wo rk you get out. ”
What schools have you been accepted to and which school are you attending? I was accepted to University of Minnesota and University of Vermont. I don’t know where I am going yet, but it is looking like Minnesota. What are you looking forward to in college/ out of high school? I am looking forward to a new experience because growing up in the suburbs is like living in a bubble. I am so looking forward to meeting new people and being in a new environment. Also, the freedom and independence of college is really exciting. What clubs or sports did you participate in, if any? I am in Key Club, Stock Market Club, Open Mic Club, and Go Green Club. I used to be in cross country and swim. I was Lieutenant Governor in Key Club so I had a lot of responsibilities outside the club because I had to serve our division which was Santa Clarita, Sylmar, San Fernando, Burbank, and North Hollywood.
What are you planning to major in? Environmental engineering because I want to be an environmental lawyer. So I thought I could gain a technical background before I go to law school. Is it honestly worth it? Yes and no. I mean titles don’t mean that much and I’m going to tell you right now I got rejected from almost every school I applied to. Grades are not the most important thing. What is most important is what is unique about you and what you can bring to the table. I am an asian with a high GPA-- I am a cliché.
How do you feel, knowing that you are salutatorian? It is kind of sad because I had my heart set on valedictorian since I was in sixth grade but it’s okay. When I realized I wasn’t going to get valedictorian I was really sad but then I thought about what I have accomplished, especially lieutenant governor, because it was never something I thought about doing. It was something that just kind of How many APs and happened and I would’ve rather Honors did you take? had that than valedictorian. 12 APs and four honors. Features | The Pawprint | www. wrpawprint.com
7
8
www. wrpawprint.com
| The Pawprint | Features
“I believe that we will win.”
THE WR PACK Interview by Erica Lee
What makes West Ranch’s student section the best? The Pack Leaders of course. Thanks to the Pack Leaders’ dedication and spirited energy, West Ranch’s sports teams have received positive support from the student body. Pack Leaders Kobe Diamond, Gustavo Ramos, Zach Heinz, and Christian Reyes have introduced new themes and ideas to make the section even better: like animal kingdom and white out. “This year we tried to use a lot of different themes and we tried not to repeat any we did last year,” said Heinz. On game day, Multi-colored posters and balloons created more excitement as the crowd entered the field. During the games, a crowd, marked with face paint and themed costumes, would stand up and cheer to encourage the teams. Besides new creative themes, the Pack Leaders’ communication with the school allows West Ranch to stand out apart from other schools, such as Valencia and Hart. Through group chats, Twitter, and Instagram they are able to figure out the best way to lead the student section. “A lot of the students know each other at
West Ranch, so it makes it easier. Valencia may look bigger because they have a larger population, but they don’t say the chants all together,” said Reyes. The close relationship between the Pack Leaders allows them to work together to cheer on the teams. When the players need encouragement or have scored the Pack would lead the chant to show their support to their team and school. “Communication was a big part. We would tell them when the chants are coming up and what we are going to do tonight. So communicating with everyone at our school was a big help,” said Heinz. After a successful year of leading the Pack, the four seniors will be handing off the torch to four juniors who are the most spirited at the games. Deciding on next year’s leaders, there is the possibility of a girl Pack Leader. “If they are pumped and can work well with the male leaders. We are open to it if the male pack leaders are,” said Reyes. As the next Pack Leaders are being chosen, we hope that they are able to lead our student section as well as this year’s leaders. Features | The Pawprint | www. wrpawprint.com
Photos provided by Yearbook
9
I fantasize about Brando -anonymous • I TOLD FETTER TO GO INTO THE GIRLS’ BATHROOM AN not related to Coach Holen. -Jessamyn Keeley Holen • I have a secret that I want to sha boyfriend. I didn’t know. I planned to ask her to the prom and it’s too late. I felt down beca play football. I ended up telling off a coach, then decided to quit. He made me run laps th “-anonymous • Every time I’m walking around school, I challenge freshman to walk into every week since sophomore year. -Michael Theodore • I think my time at West Ranch has All throughout high school, I’ve had a crush on Chris Gaw and Derick Park. -anonymous • I l Eric’s beard is fake. -Trevor Williams • I peed in Brendan Rhatigan’s pool. -anonymous •I’m
I’m madly in love with Amanda Magalski. -anonymous • I have a freshman crush on Wil • Seamus M. is husband goals. -anonymous • I pooped my pants in AP Lang junior year secret twerk society sisterhood. -anonymous •I have the hots for Kristoff -Chiet Pat • I d I’m still in love with the girl I left and let go. -anonymous • I used my driver’s license everyda West Ranch. -anonymous • I’m actually going to miss all my friends coming to my car duri night, I like to climb up to the top of the 400 building and howl at the moon. They still think I’ve had a crush on Zac Heinz since freshman year. -anonymous • I’m the girl that seems lik
ND HE ACTUALLY DID IT;THE ABSOLUTE MADMAN HAHAHAHAHAHA -anonymous • I’m actually hare. I like Alice Kang. She’s a nice person in school. But my friend told me she had a cause I failed or did something wrong. -Jose Luis Ogdou • When I was about 10, I tried to that day -anonymous • I honestly thought this would turn out like “High School Musical. o me because I want to see what they will do. -anonymous • I’ve fallen asleep in history as been fun and was a good memory, despite the clowns I experienced. -Christian Doty • lied about living in North Dakota. -anonymous • I’ve never pooped at school. -anonymous ’m sorry about all the G6’s , but I threw a rock at coach Rowe freshman year. -Jeffery Wei
ill Chambers. -anonymous • I’ve always been secretly in love with Griffin. -anonymous ar. -anonymous •I have slept in every class since freshman year. -Tyler Szeto • I’m in a didn’t actually get into harvard. -anonymous • I have variety but not depth. -anonymous day, for a whole semester, to get off campus. -anonymous • There’s nine routes for ditching ring tutorial and having a dance party with them in there. -Kylee Garfield • Sometimes, at k it’s the coyotes. -anonymous • I always had a secret crush on Zack Fetter. -anonymous • ike the typical good girl, but really I just never get caught doing bad things. -anonymous
Thanks to Mrs. O’Shea and our passion project, I got to play video games for school reasons. -Matthew Blauser
I used to darken my mustache with crayons. -Braden Drake I love listening to Celine Dion. -Andrew Carpentier I’m absolutely in love with Brendan Rhatigan. -Christina Hillo
Zach Rosen is smokin’ hawt. -A.E. I own a shrimp guitar. It’s a guitar… in the shape of a shrimp. -Kendyl Barnholtz I don’t like ketchup, but I love me some Heinz. -Genesis Mora No, I am not dating Genesis Mora. -Andrew Amaya
Freshman year I was obsessed with alpacas and passed out missing alpaca posters. -anonymous
I like to shove fireflies down my pants to make my farts glow. -Jeff “Juicy” Wei
Ultimate husband goals: a beach boy with a nice butt. -Hunter Zeleznik So, this one time, I stepped on the grass. -Blake O’Rullian
“I picked University of Connecticut because
I wanted to go to the east coast for a change of scenery and new experiences.”
Gunnar Van Gent
“
I chose Parsons New School of Design because of the amazing illustration programs and internship oppurtunities.”
Katie Roen
“I’m so excited to be a Triton! I was initially
going to go to UCI, however, I picked UCSD because I felt that their programs will better prepare me for medical school.”
Patricia n Asuncio
“I chose UC Berkeley for the amazing
opportunities for entrepreneurs.”
Joshua Han
Features | The Pawprint | www. wrpawprint.com
13
LAURA TANDY
DAVID KANG
helen gu
Rachel Lee Arts & Entertainment Editor
Gu’s mastery in art has improved throughout high “When I draw or when I paint, I kinda just get lost school, but she learned more than just art. Through into it. It’s different because I feel like I’m putting in this medium she was able to build her confidence. Art all this effort, but it’s also fun. It’s something I like to is an individualistic endeavor, yet paradoxically, art do,” said Gu. “It’s very satisfying going from a blank depends on a collection of people. Art is created by the page to the end creation and just saying ‘this is what AP Studio Art is filled with individual, but the artists’ creativity and vision is not I made.’ It’s fun projecting yourself onto a piece of talented artists, including Helen Gu. meant for one person. It is meant to be shared, to be paper.” During first period, Gu settles down in her table and enjoyed, to be loved by many people. Sharing your art laughs amongst fellow peers while she pulls out her requires confidence because criticisms are inevitable. latest art piece and a paint brush. Her warm smile and Nonetheless, Gu acquired confidence in herself and cheerful personality make her the full package: kind her art. and talented. “I’m usually hesitant [to enter my art in From Art 1A to AP Studio Art, creativity has become competitions],” said Gu. “But this year has been a the core of Gu’s high school years. year of changes because I’m a senior, so I’ve been Gu uses a combination of oil painting techniques, more confident in my art.” like palette knife painting and reductive painting, and Gu’s confidence paid off because she recently blends colors with soft edges. The brush strokes on the placed in the 2D category at the California Art canvas scream emotion and passion. But how did her Education Association (CAEA) Southern California passion for art begin? Art Exhibition. “I used to enjoy creating art when I was younger, but As for the future, Gu is looking to continue her I didn’t take any classes or pursue it until I got to high passion for art. school,” said Gu. “I took Art 1A, 1B and I thought, “I definitely want to incorporate art in my career ‘hey, this is really cool,’ so I signed up for AP Studio someway,” said Gu. “Right now, my major is Art and that’s when I really started pursuing it.” communication, so that’s going to be another good AP Studio Art gave Gu an opportunity to expand way to get into advertising and marketing and sales. her horizons. I was also thinking about other creative fields and “I started really small on just regular sized paper, but I’m interested in fashion a little bit, but I’m not sure once I started AP Studio art, [my teacher] gave us all because I haven’t taken any fashion classes. ” and these different types of materials to use and I started No matter how Gu integrates her Now, you had the opportunity to star ally Blonde” doing bigger pieces, using different kinds of paint.” passion with her future, art is choreograph a dance this year in “Leg r from diffe that does How . zing) ama was Sally Rush, West Ranch’s art teacher, supports Gu a part of her identity. (which and her art. just performing? “Helen has grown so much over the three years I’ve whole different Choreographing a musical is a in one. I felt had her in class,” said Rush. “Helen is an exceptional cast being just to sed experience as oppo artist with natural artistic abilities, but it’s her lity in leading a cast and nsibi respo of sense huge a z den extra time spent that has broadened of work -- some sel not just being a part of it. It is a lot Hes r a eographing a her skills and increased her chor a.m. 2 x nights I would be up until Ale Write confidence.” h it. Seeing my wort so is ff it but -a ber num t cal musi S an amazing vision come together onstage was such d of every one of my cast prou so was I and g feelin ? ped who you are and absolutely How has theater sha mates. Leading in a play is awesome ure playing press of lot a felt terrifying all at once. I be without know who I would like the show felt I use beca de in Blon lly are Lega in I honestly do not Elle ncing g, acting, and da when you have d performing. Singin was resting on my shoulders. But my life. I write an of ect asp ry eve great comfort and you ease a is it ’t ads, can co-le I s erful pretty much on wond oti gs when I have em I see it is that g has m? perform original son up and things fall into place. The way can’t just say. Actin ater arts sprout fro I l the fee of the show, if e I to s lov rtant ng ur impo thi lly yo handle or Where did every character is equa as well as interact e show will not I perceive [others] whol w the ho part, ed an their g nc r as doin ue t ita not is gu infl jus one d plays express myself or role, if you’re sical family - my da and others. I dance to meet its potential. No matter what your I grew up into a mu me a more creative gs. They would both with co sin be d ve an ha ng at you. no I looki e. pia is nce eas ys onstage, someone in the audie and my mom pla rming isn’t so rted singing emotional rel because of it. Perfo d I eventually sta n an rso me pe to a ve g ssi me sin l ng pre ex always ncing alo cular to me; cal ed singing and da bby or an extracurri The along. I always lov any chance I much a ho k w I define myself. too ho I d of an rt s pa is vie it mo We have all loved watch cousins theater geek, but tions in my to Shirley Temple ira my ing you per form over asp for d t an jus s ts en wa it even if the last four years, what e to t most important achievem nu en nti tal co in could to perform -ll wi me does the future hold for er ed eat ter Th en m ge. sta mo the My to n. ck Brooke Sikkema? at a family reunio l in love with life trace ba fel I d an le . litt off s d I wa onstage an I am going to do a double competitions when when I was six, affect me major in Musical Theater mpeted in AMTC me to and Psychology at Cal being on stage. I co led ich wh ard aw t ifornia Lutheran Univer en tal g un yo the Wh n to sity en ia wo did rn d you discover acting was next year. I am so excited an to Califo something you to be apart of their theater and thus moving wanted to do for the rest pro getting a manager gra m, but g. of your life? I’m going to miss my acting and singin West Ranch I discovered my true pas Theater friends and Mr. pursue a career in sion for being on a stag Cook. I’m planning on e and performing live for mo vin g to New Yor k in a couple of years to an audience in a nationwid pursue e my dream of bei competition I did call ng on Broadway. It’s a ed AMTC. I perform longshot, I ed know, but I “Animal Crackers” for ove will not give up. Wheth r 2000 people at age 6 and er I’m acting had no nerves. I was just professionally or just happy to be doing what in community theater I performing wil , loved: performing. l always be a part of my life .
a m e k
bro
k i s e k o
Arts & Entertainment | The Pawprint | www. wrpawprint.com
15
K
ang, David [Kahng, Dayvid] proper noun Master of eight instruments Band percussion leader Loved by everyone who has encountered him. David Kang lives, eats, and breathes music: melodies pump through his blood, and his heart beats classical music. Over these four years, David has been practicing his A through G’s, but not the kind that you think. He practices for four hours, three to four days a week. On top of that, he is taking AP classes, including what is considered one of the hardest AP classes: Music Theory, which he shrugged off as just “alright.” When asked how he manages both daily music practices and regular classes without falling flat, he told us his strategy was to efficiently finish as much homework as possible before practices. Band and orchestra have definitely impacted David’s high school career. “Mr. Marshall is my favorite teacher... I love all my music classes,” said Kang. Don’t worry David, Mr. Marshall loves you too, and he apologizes for not bringing you back a gift from Ohio. (He said you’ll know what that means.) While David may seem like the all around perfect student. High school started pitchy for him too: just like the rest of us. “The biggest difference in David has definitely been his personality. He’s always been a good player, but he was kind of hidden and quiet early on. He’s not hidden or quiet anymore. He’s very outgoing, friendly, but he’s also a good leader. He went from not even being part of our marching band to now being the captain for a major section of our percussion section. He couldn’t have done that as a freshman; he was too quiet and introverted. He’s really kind of come out of his shell,” band and orchestra conductor, Jason Marshall, recounted. As David moves onto play violin at CSU Long Beach next year, he will be missed by band and orchestra alike. Senior Brandon Andrews said that the program would miss, “his good spirit and his enthusiasm for getting better at music.” Likewise, sophomore Luke Kim believes, “band and orchestra will probably miss the unceasing effort and volunteering David contributed towards the program.” David has impacted that program, just as much as it has impacted him. We wish him the best in his future music career, and we know we will be seeing great things from him. Perhaps, the Philharmonics?
David Kang
West Ranch band and orchestra’s resident jack of all trades 16
www. wrpawprint.com
| The Pawprint | Arts & Entertainment
Riley Villiers-Furze Jong Hak Won Staff Writer
T
andy, Laura [Tandee, Lorah] proper noun Concertmaster Student extroardinaire Since her start at the age of five, Laura Tandy has turned her love of classical music into something that has heavily defined her high school experience. Now a senior, Tandy stands out as “somebody irreplaceable,” according to her orchestra conductor of four years, teacher Jason Marshall. From a very young age, Tandy was exposed to the classical works: the Bachs and the Beethovens. Whereas most children find this music boring or old fashioned, Tandy was interested enough to pick up a violin for herself. And whereas most children who do pick up an instrument give up after a couple years, her love for music only continued to grow through years of practice. As a freshman, she joined the Wildcat orchestra. Looking back, Marshall recalls a Laura who was much different than the Laura he knows today. “As a freshman we rarely would hear her speak,” he said. But since then, she grew not only in musical talent, but in leadership as well. “I’m most proud of the great leader Laura has become,” said Marshall. “Today, [she] is polished and confident in front of the group, and makes huge contributions.” So what separated Tandy from the others? Other than “lots of practice and paying attention to technique,” Laura herself notes that she paid extra attention to the small details. “I think a lot of people forget the small details. It makes a difference between playing good and playing great,” she said. This was noticed by Marshall and her peers as well. “Laura’s attention to detail and artistic ability set her apart from others. She is always prepared on her music and treats our orchestra as if it were a professional ensemble.” And thus, Tandy took over as concertmaster during her junior year, as a talented, artistic, and compassionate leader. As the concertmaster, it was her duty to act as a captain would on a sports team, leading by example and maintaining the cohesiveness of the group. And now, her time is almost up. After an outstanding four years at West Ranch musically, academically, and socially, Tandy looks forward to a fruitful college experience. “I’ll probably go to Berkeley or maybe UCLA, but I won’t be majoring in music,” she said. “I kind of wanted to do a double major but it’s too late. But maybe I could; maybe I’ll minor in music while majoring in engineering.”
Laura Tandy
Concertmaster with not only the beauty, but also the brains Minjae Kang Arts & Entertainment Editor Alexa Hesseldenz
Arts & Entertainment | The Pawprint | www. wrpawprint.com
17
Walter Ryan Beddeo Written by Aaron Lee
Over the 10 years of West Ranch’s young history, Wildcats basketball has emerged as the hallmark of our school’s athletics. With no established football legacy (yet) and with other sports – *cough* baseball and soccer – having game times often inconvenient for most students, it has now become tradition for West Ranch to pack – pun intended – upwards of 2,000 people in the gym every winter for a basketball game. Our student section is deafening throughout the game. Worried fire marshals are regulars in the crowd. Twitter is frenzied by excited West Ranch students who have come to expect a win every Tuesday and Friday night. The varsity basketball players are the rockstars at West Ranch, the celebrities on campus, the talk of the school. In the middle of all this, soaking it all in and basking in the spotlight, is point guard Walter Ryan Beddeo. He’s a senior now, and his playing days at West Ranch have come to a close. Beddeo credits his experience as a Wildcat for his maturation beyond athletics. His years here haven’t just improved his basketball. They’ve made him the man he is now in all aspects of his life. “West Ranch basketball really has been the driving force in my life. The amazing coaching staff has had my back since day one. They’ve taught me everything I know, and I’m not limiting that to basketball. They’ve been my mentors who have guided me to be a good student, never let up on something I want, and prepare myself for even the most painful challenges,” said Beddeo. His coaches feel the same love for Ryan, displaying the chemistry that they’ve had with their star point guard for the four years they’ve been together. “Ryan is special to us because he came into high school and this varsity team the same time we did,” said Wildcats head coach Shant Bicakci. “We’re going to win games; we’re going to lose games. Ultimately, our goal is to take boys and turn them into dedicated students, dedicated sons, and dedicated young men in the community. We know that Ryan has been a reflection of what our program represents for his entire career here.” Making the varsity team as a freshman under arguably the toughest coaching staff in Foothill League history, Beddeo was one of the key members of two teams that ushered in the aforementioned glory of West Ranch basketball. “Starting my career playing alonside a 6’8” living high school legend was unreal. Ako [Kaluna] was a force that I don’t think anyone here in this valley will ever be able to match, and he showed me how to handle the spotlight,” said Ryan. “Kevin [Harris] was a flatout assassin on the court, and he never ever gave less than 100 percent. I’ve
18
www.wrpawprint.com
| The Pawprint | Sports
The Story of his West Ranch Legacy
always tried to model my effort after his. “We achieved a lot in my freshman and sophomore years with that team – you know, the school’s first and only Foothill League titles. Some of those guys are still my best friends to this day.” Junior year brought adversity for Beddeo, as nagging knee injuries sidelined him throughout what could have been a season to turn some major scouts’ heads. This past senior campaign confirmed Beddeo’s bonafide superstardom, as his return from injuries was highlighted by sensational scoring and basketball IQ, leading the Foothill League with 26.1 points and 5.2 assists per game. “My last two years were both huge challenges. I was hurt last year and this year we had mostly new guys on the team. Although neither year ended the way I wanted to, at the end of the day, I have no regrets and thank them for fun seasons.” Part of the reason why Ryan has experienced so much success at this level is because he has always known what he has wanted to achieve in high school. “I set myself in freshman year to be the best in the league and I lived in the gym for the past four years with that goal in mind. I lifted weights constantly, I put up thousands of shots a day, and I trained harder than anyone I know. I think because my goal was so specific and I knew what I had to do to get there, I was able to succeed.” However, Beddeo’s future is not so clear-cut. “I have a few official visits set up at three mid-major Division I schools, and my top right now is San Jose State. It’s possible that I won’t like any of those schools though. If not, then I’ve already been admitted to Brewster Academy, the top prep school in the country. A year there would allow me to make up for my lost junior season, and I am already being recruited by high-major Division I schools like Michigan State for the class of 2016.” Beddeo says he’ll have to make his decision within the month. No matter what happens in the future, though, he’s proud of the legacy he’s leaving behind at West Ranch and would never change a thing about his past. If he could give advice to a young, freshman version of himself, Beddeo said he’d make sure to tell himself “to enjoy the times with your best friends because they go by very quick.” “I’d tell myself to never regret anything in high school because what’s done is done. Move on and try to make up for your failures. “And stay clear of crazy girls!”
Vision Technique
Heart
Nathan Bultman
Strength
Shot put and discus are events in which strength is integral for success. Bultman prepares for his track meets rigorously as would any nationally-ranked athlete. He lifts weights every day and sometimes opts to increase his routine to twice a day when he has time or feels he needs an extra workout. As with any sport, practice is also very essential. Bultman displays his dedication to his art by throwing four days a week for about two hours each day. His sufficient training routine allows him to perform at a high level every time.
From the age of six, Bultman has spent many years perfecting his craft. He has won several awards for being an outstanding athlete and even competed at Nationals in Illinois. Taking after his father who is his teacher and role model, Bultman strives to become an Olympic athlete and his future will begin when he attends USC this fall. He will continue to compete in the shot put, discus, and the hammer throw, but wishes to specialize in one or two of these events so that he can hone the skills required for each one.
Bultman’s natural talent has been synonymous with the amount of passion and dedication he has. He competes not only for himself, but his father who was unable to compete in the Olympics due to a career-ending injury. Bultman appreciates his father’s diligence and hopes to fill his shoes, if not surpass him. His tough daily routine leaves little time for homework, but Bultman manages to complete it before school the next day. He understands the importance of being academically and sports-minded, and this mindset allows him to excel at school and in his track events.
Strength is not the only key to exceling in shot put, discus, or the hammer throw. A specialized technique is required to maximize the energy delivered in every attempt. Bultman understands how imperative his form is and ensures that he keeps this in mind when he is competing. “In throwing the shot put, discus or even the hammer, strength isn’t everything. Surprisingly it all comes down to technique and explosiveness. Although, if I were to say what muscles you use the most in throwing, it would definitely be the legs.”
Sports | The Pawprint | www.wrpawprint.com
19
CIF Champions Make Ivy Leagues
Bryce Fenenbock Sports Writer
As a repeat league champion for cross country and track, a soccer star, and scholar, there’s not much out there senior Marisa Magsarili can’t do. Balancing a 4.42 GPA with an armful of trophies is no easy task, and is the reason for her recent acceptance into the Ivy League college Dartmouth. “It’s been really tough these last four years with all of the tough classes I’ve taken along with practicing track and soccer every day. Most nights I found myself up until two in the morning just studying,” she said. Taking all offered honor and AP classes from sophomore to senior year, time efficiency became a big factor in Marisa’s life. “Since freshman year I think I have become much more organized of a person. I’ve always put school ahead of sports and in retrospect I’m really lucky that there was little overlap between the seasons of cross country, track, and soccer. My schedule was so tight even with the break between each season that if I added any other class I might have had to drop one of my sports.” Although academics were her priority, Marisa definitely didn’t fall short on the athletic side of the spectrum. Only starting competitive running at the start of high school, Marisa quickly made a name for herself in league and dominated the track in both the mile and 800 meter. “I did Warriors when I was little, but I wasn’t a distance runner; I did high jump and sprints. Soccer was my main sport when I first came into high school and running to me was just to stay in shape. I’d say it wasn’t until sophomore year though that I realized running was my thing.” That year, Marisa won the 800 in league for track and made CIF finals for cross country, both for the first time.
“I’ve been to CIF since sophomore year, but the first time I made it was definitely the proudest moment of my high school career. ” Named captain of soccer, cross country, and track, Marisa’s dedication not only contributes to her own success, but motivates the teammates around her as well. “‘Marmags [a team nickname for Marisa] inspires the team daily and is an incredible leader. She stays so composed even in high-pressure situations and always knows when to go from playful to serious. She constantly keeps me focused while also making me laugh,” track teammate Ellie Yuen said. With three league final wins under her belt and possibly more to come, “Marmags” is definitely one to learn from. “My advice for any current or incoming runners is to constantly invest yourself and keep reminding yourself of your goals. Don’t focus on anyone around you but yourself and try to push harder as each race passes. For high school overall, take advantage of every opportunity presented to you, persevere, and I promise you will succeed.” Make sure to watch Marisa as her final season of track comes to a close, and wish her luck as she heads off to Dartmouth!
Sarah Ziskind Sports Writer Many little girls want to be dancers or soccer players, but for senior Keeley Walsh that wasn’t the case. She tried both, but “didn’t enjoy doing either activity,” said Walsh. “My brother played baseball and I always wanted to be like him so softball was the best option.” A great catcher must have great speed, hand eyecoordination, ability to direct her team, and awareness of where everyone is on the field. Being a catcher in softball arguably requires the most skill out of everyone on the field, but that never stopped Walsh from pursuing the position. With these skills and more, Keeley was able to achieve a more than impressive batting average of .399, OBP of .446, 111 hits, 88 RBIs, CS percentage of .542, and the title of team captain for two years in a row. After joining softball, the decision proved to be a very wise choice on Walsh’s part. “Softball has taught me to work with others to reach a common goal,” said Walsh. “I have made lifelong friends through this sport. Without softball I would not be as well rounded as I am today.” With an impressive transcript and athleticism, dreams soon became a reality for Walsh. “Softball was also my golden ticket into my dream school.” For a smart and athletic girl such as Walsh, Princeton is a perfect fit. Getting accepted into an Ivy League is anything but easy. It requires organization, devotion, commitment, and an abundance of other skills. “Over the years I have learned how to manage my time
20 S
ports
| The Pawprint | www.wrpawprint.com
so I am able to perform well in both school and softball,” said Walsh. “My hectic schedule keeps me focused and motivated for the future. Right now all five of my classes are AP.” Preparing for the transition into college is a very bittersweet time for seniors like Keeley. “I love being a part of a team because e v e r y girl supports one another,” said Walsh. “I’m sad about leaving my friends because the bonds and relationships that develop over the years are unlike any other, but I can’t wait to hear about their success for the years to come. I am also very excited for the next chapter in my life and to see what the future holds.” And her team will miss her as well. “When you have someone like Keeley, who plays the same sport as you, it makes you want to be the best you can be,” said freshman Hope Hahn. “Seeing someone excel in school and sports while always having a positive attitude amazes me. Looking at what she has accomplished makes me believe I can do the same.” No matter where it is or who it is with, as long as there is softball, Keeley Walsh will be there.
His near .400 lifetime batting average and beautiful God-given fielding talents have created the legend that is Jagger Rusconi. As he prepares to leave West Ranch, the superstar shortstop shares secrets about his art and gives advice about the craft. On his favorite high school memory In my high school career I’d say I’m most proud of the two league titles we won my freshman and sophomore year, the first league titles ever for West Ranch Baseball. If I had to choose one specific game though, it’s no question that it’s when we beat Orange Lutheran in the quarterfinals of CIF Playoffs in my freshman year. On his secret to success Definitely sacrifice. I never wanted to be like anyone else I always took the road less traveled. I knew what I wanted in life and I put all my focus and effort into bettering myself in baseball. I live and breathe baseball; it consumes so much of my life that it basically is my life. Also I’ve been blessed with amazing coaches here at West Ranch that have helped guide me to be the best player and person I could be. Coach Casey and Brady have been monumental influences in my baseball career.
Most of all my father has pushed me to the be the person I am today and without him I don’t know where I’d be in life. On his bright future After high school I plan on declaring my eligibility to enter into the MLB Draft and pursuing my pro career. I’m really grateful for the opportunity that USC extended to me, but I think this is the right choice for me and my baseball future. I’m most looking forward to going out and competing against the best the world has to offer and to make my dream become a reality, and I want to make my mom and dad proud and show them all the time and money they have put into this was worth it.
you want to get drafted, it’s all possible based on the work you put in. It takes a lot more than just showing up to practice. It’s a daily grind to be better than the guy next to you. Most have the dream but very few will put in the work to achieve it. Let the other kids party while you become successful; in the end you’ll like the results. It has been an honor covering Jagger in his endless success at West Ranch. He’s provided thrills with his masterful glove, jaw-dropping arm, and hot bat. I’ve had the pleasure of watching him for the last three seasons, and his confidence is unmatched. On behalf of the Paw Print, I wish him the greatest in the big leagues.
His advice to younger, aspiring baseball players Advice I would give to kids entering high school would be never be content. Keep striving to be the best you can be. If you want a scholarship, if
The Art of Jagger Rusconi Written by Aaron Lee
find us on @wrpawprint @wrpawprint West Ranch High School Pawprint