Volume 24 Issue 6

MAY 2013

SIDEKICK ONLINE

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VOLUME 24 ISSUE 6

@CHSCAMPUSNEWS

Senior issue

COPPELL HIGH SCHOOL • 185 W PARKWAY BLVD • COPPELL, TEXAS 75019

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Teachers share recipes

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New UIL football rules

Citizens vote, pass largest bond in district history JULIANNE CAULEY

A

MOST SIGNIFICANT COPPELL HIGH SCHOOL CHANGES

News Editor

fter 2,586 votes were cast, the single proposition bond package of $79.5 million passed by 63.34 percent on Saturday, May 11.

Due to the need for a new elementary campus, advancements in technology, improvements in maintenance and security and new athletic facilities, this bond package is the district’s largest to date.

One of the Board of Trustee’s most desired aspects of the package is the new elementary school located within Irving city limits, Cypress Waters. This development around the North Lake area will include 1,700 single-family units and 1,340 multi-family units.

“I voted for the bond to pass and the reason is simple to me; all students deserve an equal opportunity to be educated properly,” Coppell resident Traci Thompkins said. “I read on all of the posts on the district website before I went in to vote today and saw the statistics about the students living in that Valley Ranch area. The fact that they do not have another neighborhood school to fit their growing needs is addressed in the

ADDITION TO COPPELL HIGH SCHOOL FIELD HOUSE MULTI-PURPOSE COMPEITION GYM/ARENA, WRESTLING ROOM AND DANCE STUDIO KITCHEN/CAFÉ RENOVATION $1,800,000 LEARNING UPGRADES AND RENOVATIONS $1,700,000 $650,000 TURF AND TRACK RENOVATION $450,000 STADIUM LIGHT POLE REPLACEMENT $200,000 RESTROOM/SHOWER RENOVATIONS

$14,500,000 $10,800,000

Floorplan for the new Cypress Waters Elementary School Photo illustration by Haley Madigan and Rachel Bush

On May 11, Coppell ISD passed a $79.5 million bond to accommodate a growing district population and expand development to encourage progress. The proposal includes a new gym for CHS, the new Cypress Waters Elementary School, technology funding and more.

bond and I believe it was vital to pass the bond so each student is accommodated for.”

In the past five years, enrollment at Valley Ranch El-

ementary rose from 550 students to over 680. In addition to this, an additional 750 kids are bused out of the Valley Ranch area to four other elementary schools.

With the passing of the bond, these children will be able to attend a more conveniently located elementary school fulfilling the district’s philosophy of “neighbor-

Juniors host 5K in memorium

hood schools.”

see Voters on pg. 3 To see more stories go to Coppellstudentmedia.com Photo courtesy Davis DeLoach

Photo by Lauren Ussery

CHRISTINA BURKE Features Editor

When the AP English Language and Composition classes for juniors were presented with a semester long project benefitting humanitarian aid organizations, students reflected upon their sympathies and past experiences while finding topics to focus on.

A group under the instruction of teacher Tracy Henson has exceeded expectations by raising awareness to the dangers of depression.

The Coppell community was upset by the death of senior Jonah Blackwell last October, and a group of Blackwell’s friends have come together to benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, AFSP, for their humanitarian aid project.

“This cause stuck out to us because of the loss of our friend Jonah Blackwell,”

Juniors Cole Sander, Christian Reyna, Peyton Kingsley, George Fairchild, Hannah Jiao, Sharik Merchant and Nate Nyakundi created the ‘Run for Life 5K’ in honor of Jonah Blackwell.

junior Christian Reyna said.

“All of this is for his memory and to prevent other people from dying the way he did.”

With over 220 runners participating, the ‘Run for Life 5K’ was held at 8 a.m. on May 18 at Andy Brown Park as a fundraiser benefitting the AFSP. The group of juniors hoped the cause would generate many willing participants in the community in Black-

well’s name who were willing to donate to suicide prevention.

“Jonah Blackwell was a Coppell cross country runner, and in honor of him and his family we came up with the idea to have a 5K here in Coppell,” junior Hannah Jiao said. “The race will give all the donations and money to

see Run on pg. 2

Junior midfielder and right forward Chris Madden serves an integral role on the team, leading scoring records with 14 goals this season.

Madden named MVP Returning player to defend title JENA SEIDEMANN Staff Writer

After an electric boys Class 5A state soccer final, there were two trophies hoisted, the team and Most Valuable Player trophy. The man behind the MVP was junior Chris Madden after

his clutch free kick to tie the game and the goal with 56 seconds to win Coppell soccer’s second state championship.

In the game-winning goal, Madden’s shot whisked past the goalkeeper again but instead hit the low corners and smoothly

see Junior on pg. 21

2 news

MAY 2013

First Run for Life 5K raises awareness of depression

Photos by Lauren Ussery

Sophomore Grace Barden begins the Run for Life 5K on May 18 at Andy Brown Park. The 5K was put together in honor of senior Jonah Blackwell who died last year.

continued from pg.1 the donations and money to AFSP. Because the race is in his honor, we chose this organization to help others who are or were struggling with suicide or depression.”

Working in and outside of class, the group developed many ways to market its 5K to ensure

1

the success of their endeavor among fellow students and members of the Coppell community.

“We made flyers for around the school and handing out sign up forms to our friends,” Reyna said. “We also went to [New Tech High@Coppell] to drop off forms, hang posters and even got the event out on the announcements.”

person commits

every

10 13.7

LEADING

statistics courtesy suicidiology.com Graphic by Sammy Robben

The group’s success is evident with the level of student interest. Between the flyers, posters and verbal announcements, friends of Blackwell were enthusiastic about the idea.

“I am glad I was able to participate in the 5K,” junior Sarah Gibbons said. “Jonah was my teammate on cross country and I’m running in remembrance of him. This race was for a really

th is the

CAUSE OF

Eight AP English Language and Composition students accept a check for $5,023 from Angela Pearson at the Run for Life 5K on May 18.

great cause and deserved the feedback it got.”

With positive feedback from the community, the group hoped the event would be a monumental success for their friend Blackwell that will reach beyond the walls of their English classroom.

The group had numerous sponsors, including Tappy’s Yogurt, Samsung and Dr. Frank J. Stich Orthodontics.

“We were hoping for a big turnout,” Jiao said. “The community helped us turn this into a big event, and we are glad that many would came out and supported a cause that is real and hits close to home.”

At the end of race day, the Run for Life 5K group was able to donate $5230 to the AFSP, succeeding in their project and helping a cause near to their hearts.

2896 3.7MALES

in TEXAS MOST IN

1

for every

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State representatives to re-evaluate STAAR testing SHIVANI BURRA Video Producer

After the first round of EOC tests last year, state representatives realized how difficult the testing system was, and the state is changing the way things are done.

Since last summer when the thought of too much testing first became a major talk, the district has been considering applying for waiver to come up with its own testing system since taking 15 tests is difficult to manage.

House Public Education Chairman Jimmie Don Aycock, introduced a bill that suggested taking down the number of required tests to five - Algebra I, Biology, U.S. History, English II reading and writing - that would spread over three years.

“The bill was passed in the house with about 400 to 2, so it is obviously a very popular measure, and there is a lot of parent support and school support; so I think it will pass but it might change at little,” associate principal Michelle Kellen said.

Part of the bill has to do with graduation plans, which would no longer include recommended and distinguished graduations plan but instead a career track for students who want to learn about the specific career they are interested in.

Supporters of the bill said

the revisions would enable students not planning to enter college to prepare themselves for skilled jobs in the workforce immediately after graduation.

“There are a bunch of parts to this bill, and I am not sure what all will be changed, but the testing part of the bill is very popular among people,” Kellen said. “For them not to approve it now would be very unpopular

and politicians like to please their people. I think it has a strong chance, but it will be interesting to see what it looks like after they officially pass it.”

The testing will probably change retroactively, for sophomores and freshmen who are on the 15 test track, so as long as they pass the five required tests they do not have to take anymore standardized tests.

The whole idea of accountability started about 20 years ago, and it was to hold schools responsible to make sure they were teaching what they should be teaching.

“We spend too much time testing, which takes so much time that could be used for classroom instruction time,” chemistry teacher Kevin Brimage said.

Along with reducing the

Photo by Rowan Khazendar

STAAR exams were given throughout the months of April and May to allow the state to evaluate the students’ levels of understanding in their core classes. Representatives are reconsidering the testing format.

number of STAAR tests, moving to a national test is also being discussed.

“Having a national test would be so hard. The one thing about education in the United States is that it has always been under state control,” Kellen said.

“But many states are moving towards that because of the national standards.”

Many teachers feel that since each state has different standards, comparing students’ results on standardized tests is nearly impossible.

“Having a national test is a very good idea so that we all have the same standards,” Brimage said. “We are currently comparing apples to oranges in regards of the test difficulty [between states], so a national test would let students know how they are doing in comparison to every student in the nation and not just the peers in their state.”

Many students feel taxed with the number of tests they are required to take. Between finals, AP tests and standardized tests at the end of year, it is hard to manage and study for them all.

“If they reduced the number of STAAR tests, I would not feel as stressed as I currently do because of all the tests I have to take,” sophomore Christine Han said. “Between the three AP tests I am taking, the finals and five EOC tests, its feels like all I am doing is testing.”

news 3

MAY 2013

Graphic by Julianne Cauley

Voters pass $79.5 million package continued from pg.1 According to Coppell Superintendent Dr. Jeff Turner, elementary schools have the seats available for students; however, they are not in the correct locations. In order to get through the next year elementary school wise, a redistricting plan would have to be made prior to building the new building.

While the bond passed, many people were still opposed to different components.

“Our district is really push-

$27.1

ing for technology advancements,” Coppell resident Suzanne Wilks said. “I do not want our students to become overly dependent. Too much technology can lead to academic dishonesty and students can be distracted for an entire class length.”

District-wide technology infrastructure, replacements and improvements account for $12 million of the bond package.

“My son loves the technology he gets to use in class,” Thompkins said. “Whenever he has an assignment that requires

him to create an electronic product, he is so invested in it and it is some of the best schoolwork I have seen. Our kids grew up in a technology based generation and educating them in this atmosphere prepares them for their futures.”

According to Board of Trustees secretary Susie Kemp, it is estimated all textbooks will be available online. In order to keep up with how curriculum is being distributed, students need access to the devices granting them this access.

In addition to the new elementary school and district-wide technology, other aspects of the bond include safety and security improvements, learning upgrades and renovations, band, library and instructional materials and improvements, Coppell High School expansions and renovations and district-wide maintenance projects and mechanical renovations.

“Even without a student currently in the Coppell school system, I think this bond really benefits the entire community,”

Coppell resident Gail Peterson said. “Yes, it will cost us taxpayers a little more, but we need to focus on the big picture. Creating more space and improving the physical and technological upkeep of our schools will make the value of living here rise. My kids have graduated and I hope to move to Dallas soon so my husband is closer to work and a school system with more space for its students and with more technology will help my home value go up and I hope the voters see this.”

CHS improvements and renovations $21

New Elementary School $12

Technology improvements $9.2 Learning upgrades District-wide $5.4 maintenance Instructional materials

$3.8 Safety

$1 *Values in millions

Graphics by Julianne Cauley, Rinu Daniel and Sophie Nauyokas

4 opinions

MAY 2013

Editorial

Bond necessary to accommodate growth, progress Every 52 minutes, a bell rings and almost 3,000 students spill out into the main hallway of Coppell High School. In just a few blinks of an eye the hall is filled from wall to wall with a sea of bodies - flowing through the school like molasses. The congestion during CHS passing periods is just one testament to why the recently passed $79.5 million CISD Bond is urgently needed. $79.5 million is an enormous number and many are worried that this sum is excessive and unnecessary. However, when you break down the 74 different projects the proposal entails and remember that the money will be

spread out over several years, it is clear that this large of a bond is more than justified.

The largest piece of the accepted bond, at $28 million, is expansion of Coppell High School – including expansion of the field house and commons and a new multi-purpose competition gym.

The bond also dedicates $21 million to the construction of a new elementary school, including new furniture and equipment, and re-alignment of elementary school zoning and bus routes. The remaining half of the bond is divided between things like safety and security, technology and infrastructure, mechanical renova-

tions (including new bathrooms) and future-ready learning upgrades.

Students who have attended school in Coppell from an early age are firsthand witnesses to how impressive this school district is – but also to how much it has grown. Elementary school graduating classes have jumped from 80 to over 100 in just a few years. Each new freshman class at CHS is noticeably larger than the one before it. This magnitude of growth isn’t going to stop and requires corresponding, preemptive action from the District.

Coppell High School was built as a Class 3A facility. The

Graphic by Lauren Ussery

One final muse brings closure I am a firm believer in the idea of closure. I also believe that it is just that – an idea.

I was hoping to be able to bring everything full circle, to look back at the first piece I wrote for The Sidekick and come to the heartwarming realization that I am the same starry-eyed freshman I once was. It was going to be great, really. I was going to bundle up the last four years of high school into a nice little package and tie it up with the same kind of ribbon I wore in my hair on the first day of high school.

But then I would not really be musing, now would I? Endings happen every day.

You wake up one morning and realize you haven’t had that oatmeal with the dinosaur eggs that hatch when you add hot water since your 8th birthday, but when you start to look for it in stores you realize it is no longer being made. Things fade out of your life gradually and eventually their loss does not seem to matter much.

It is the definite endings that are hard to face.

In the past four years, I have traveled to Italy, California and Washington. I have passed so many milestones, wasted so

many nights at friends’ houses when we were supposed to be studying. I have made more friends, dioramas and mistakes than I can count.

For the past four years, I have not even tried to imagine life after high school. The truth is that sometimes high school sucks, and not everyone makes it out. But the better truth is that the small joys we experience during this period of our lives are just a taste of the immense happiness to come.

But before I can lie on the grass on the Berkeley lawn and experience this happiness, I have to say goodbye to some of the most important people and places in my life. Since I joined The Sidekick my sophomore year as opinions editor, I have spent countless hours in D115 and have somehow managed to write a column for every print issue, despite my persistent writer’s block and self-consciousness when it comes to people reading what I have to say.

Over the years, I may forget the nuances of headline writing or how to format an entire story in AP style in less than 10

minutes, but I will never forget the experiences I had and the unbelievable freedom and selfconfidence I gained from being a part of this group of students.

Before I wrap up one final time, I would like to thank everyone who took the time to read my musings. It is incredible to think that someone out there wants to hear what I have to say. I hope you enjoyed getting to know me through my arduous – and often awkward – high school experience.

When I walked into Coppell High School for the first time, four years seemed like an eternity. Now I realize that every all-nighter, every minute spent staring at the clock waiting for the bell to ring, every second spent contemplating which candy to buy from the school store has led to this. The ending. In the grand scheme of things, it was a pretty short story.

But stories don’t have to be long to be classics.

Michelle Pitcher Editor-in-Chief

2012-2013 SIDEKICK STAFF

kitchens appear identical in size to those at the middle schools. During lunch, students line the hallways and sit on the cement outside because there are not enough seats. Trying to fit the entire CHS band into the band hall for a rehearsal is like cramming a square into a round hole. CHS is one of the only 5A schools not to have separate basketball and dance facilities. The list could go on and on. With over 2500 new homes in development in CISD’s zone, these upgrades need to be addressed soon. The recently passed Bond addresses these problems at CHS as well as similar areas of need at every school in the district.

Families flock to Coppell from all over the state and the world because of its excellent school district. Coppell taxpayers need to remember that the education system is why this community has flourished in the first place - and place the continued success of CISD as a priority. Despite the tax increase, citizens should enthusiastically support the bond for the future of your siblings or children. Support the bond for the future of Coppell.

Go to vote4cisd2013.com for more information about improvements that the bond will be bringing.

Poll of the Issue What are your plans for Memorial Day weekend?

The Coppell Cowgirls 13th annual Sand Volleyball Tournament Going to the lake for outdoor activities

25.45%

5.45%

Performing in the band UIL State Solo Contest

10.91%

Taking a break from AP/IB/EOC testing Spending time with friends and family

27.27% 30.91%

55 students polled. Statistics courtesy coppellstudentmedia.com

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The Sidekick is the official student newspaper for Coppell High School. Its purpose is to inform, entertain and provide an educational resource for its readers. This newspaper is a public forum for student expression and thus student editors make all content decisions.

The Sidekick is a member of ILPC, NSPA and JEA. The Sidekick was named Best Newspaper

by The Dallas Morning News in 2012 and 2011 and Best Website in 2011 and 2009.

NSPA recognized Coppell Student Media as an Online Pacemaker finalist in 2012 and the ILPC recognized the website with a Gold Star Award in 2012, 2011 and 2010. ILPC also recognized the newspaper with Silver Star Award in 2012 and Bronze

Star Awards in 2011, 2010 and 2009.

The editorials and columns presented in this paper reflect the views of their writers.

Advertisements are sold as full, 1/2 page, 1/4 page and 1/8 page sizes in black and white or color.

For more information you may reach the adviser in his classroom (D115) or by phone at (214) 496-6239.

To read more stories by The Sidekick staff members, and also to find videos and photos, you can visit coppellstudentmedia.com.

The Sidekick welcomes all letters to the editor, but letters must be signed before consideration for publication. Send letters to cwofford@coppellisd.com or bring them by D115.

seniors

the WWW.COPPELLSTUDENTMEDIA.COM

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Senior columns

COPPELL HIGH SCHOOL • CLASS OF 2013 • COPPELL, TEXAS 75019

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Studying abroad

Show choir pursuits

Graduating class proves Cowboy fight never dies Photo by Regan Sullivan

Seniors Raga Ayyagari and Minjae Kim celebrate their upcoming graduation as the class of 2013 valedictorian and saludatorian, respectively.

Ayyagari will be attending Stanford University and Kim will be attending the University of Texas at Austin in the fall.

Seniors establish athletic legacy

The graduating class of 2013 has certainly left its mark on Coppell High School. As these students move forward, scattering across the world to pursue their dreams, they will always carry with them the experiences they had at CHS. When tragedy struck in October, the senior class developed an unprecedented sense of family and community. Since then, students have grown closer together to help the Coppell community heal.

As June 6 looms, many have begun to reflect on how their time at Coppell High School has affected them - the good and the bad.

With an impressive three state championships and a record-breaking 21 National Merit semifinalists, the senior class has seen amazing achievements. Individually, the personal growth these seniors have undergone in the past four years is undeniable.

No matter where they end up, the seniors in the graduating class of 2013 should always remember that Cowboy fight never dies.

Photo courtesy of Davis DeLoach

1 Senior Drake Lovelady celebrates with the varsity soccer team after the final state championship with the Cowboys winning 3-2 over Brownsville Hanna on April 20 in Georgetown.

SAMMY ROBBEN Sports Editor

Every class has defining characteristics that sets it apart from the others, whether it is having the highest academic GPA or giving Coppell High School its award-winning band.

The class of 2013 has proven its athletic talent makes it rise above the rest.

With nearly 25 state qualifiers and 18 of them winning state championships, it is undisputable that the class of 2013 has had an incredible amount of athletic ability.

The first group of seniors has brought home not just one

state championship, but two, in their time at CHS. The Coppell Cowgirls volleyball team won the Class 5A state championship in 2011 and 2012. Seniors outside hitter Cassidy Pickrell, middle blocker Chiaka Ogbogu, right side hitter Erica Bohannon and setter Laura Beaty led the Cowgirls. Competing as seniors, the Cowgirls used their past state win to push them to victory.

“It is just a really great experience to know that we came out on top for my senior year,” Bohannon said. “It’s great to win it as a junior but winning it as a senior is just a whole new level because it is your last chance and you’ve worked so hard for four year. It all just pays off.”

Though these four girls only made up a small fraction of the award winning team, they were a big part of the Cowgirls two time state championship victories.

“They are great players,” Coppell volleyball coach Julie Green said. “They are smart and competitive and they know what they have to do.

While most high school athletes dream of continuing on their sports career to college, it is uncommon for every senior player on a team to be committed to play at the collegiate level. The seniors of the 2012 volleyball team have proven that they are all worthy to play at the next level as all four

see 2013 on pg. 16

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6 senior columns

MAY 2013

high school experiences meaning of journalism As I near graduation, I find myself until my senior year. This may be my bigconstantly being asked, “what words of gest high school regret. Simply put, sportwisdom do you have?” ing events are fun. It is the unique opLooking back, the only thing I can portunity for friends from CHS and New be considered wise in is a students’ expe- Tech High@Coppell to be together and rience throughout high school. These are strengthen school pride. Coppell’s student the three most important things I learned section is unique; it is something you have throughout high school: to experience to truly understand.

Your class rank is not a dictioI am not saying these three tips will 1 nary; it doesn’t define you. make it easy. Truthfully, it is hard not to Your GPA is not everything. While care about ranks, because grades do matgrades are very important, you can still ter, or you may be too busy to attend every reach your goals even without being in the event. However, through all of my expetop 8 percent. I fell out of top 8 percent by riences, it is the Friday night lights, relathe first semester of junior year. My col- tionships with peers and the sense of CHS lege future was practically the University pride that I will remember the most. of Texas or bust. Even without a GPA in When I was an incoming senior, all the top 8 percent, I was able to reach my of my best friends had just graduated and goal because of my test scores, essays and ventured to different states for college. I involvement. was not looking forward to this year at Clubs are not a resume fluffer; all. However, this year is one I will nev2 they are an experience buffer. er forget. After the death of Jacob Logan, Clubs are not time consumers; they my friend group’s world flipped. He was are social interaction hubs. Finding peo- always the life of the party and his absence ple with similar interests is the best avenue is ever present. However, the support of to good times and good friends. It is easy the school community allowed me to look to get caught in the overwhelming size of beyond the tragedy and see the blessings CHS, but these clubs and activities make that resulted. finding your niche so much easier. When This year’s senior class is a model of I first came to CHS I was super what my dream class would be. I do not shy. Through my participathink I have seen a class be so close detion in newspaper, tennis spite differences or trials, and I would not and Red Jackets, I have behave wanted it any other way. come a much more social person. school spirit 3 Our is unmatched.

I have only missed three high school football games in my past four years. I did Julianne Cauley not start atNews Editor tending other events though

embracing time Sometimes we spend way too much time trying to find the right words to describe our experiences – I’ve determined that there aren’t any right words. So as my senior year comes to a close and I sit here grappling with letters, trying to put together the perfect combination that will completely marvel my audience, I’m stumped. I have no idea how to even describe my experience at Coppell High School, but let me tell you, it was a heck of a time – it wasn’t the best, and it wasn’t the worst. It was high school.

From the time we enter those double glass doors into the fiery inferno of raging hormones, poisonous lunch food (I’m exaggerating…maybe) and cliques galore, we desperately try to claw our way out of what we believe to be the worst there could ever be. Sometimes it is easy to forget we are creating memories; we are spending four precious years among this cluster of perceived snobs and geeks – treasure it.

I guess it is a matter of opinion, but high school in general serves as the basis for how you will approach the rest of your life. I am not saying that who you are in high school will define you for the rest of your life. Quite frankly, it’ll probably be the opposite – but it is the golden age of firsts that you will forever recollect; from that unexpected kiss your freshman year in the band hall to that sloppy prom fiasco with your ex your senior year and falling for your best friend along the way.

Too often I see individuals taking high school for granted. Why waste four years complaining about how much high school sucks when you could be out there embracing your

With writing this column came the same bittersweet feeling that I have felt a lot recently. It is the same feeling that comes with the end of a time or saying goodbye.

This could be the last newspaper article I write, and even though I have chosen not to pursue it in college, I cannot deny how much journalism has taught me.

Going into my freshmen year I was just a shy little freshman that didn’t know what the next four years would hold, and my first period journalism class was the start of it all. It was in the D115 classroom that I learned the evil of oxford commas and was told that you only capitalize the first word of a headline, not every word. I learned that school mascots are always capitalized, and which states and months are abbreviated.

It sounds dumb, but even these small details of journalism will stay with me as I continue to college because they have been my life for four years. With every story I edited or got edited I learned something new, but that’s the beauty of journalism; you’re always learning, and you’re always growing.

From journalism I went on to newspaper and there I learned more than just AP style and design rules. Newspaper got me out my shell and pushed me to be more extroverted and, whether people like it or not, opinionated. I will never forget trying to interview someone for the newspaper for the first time. I was terrified, probably shaking, and wanted nothing more than to never have to do it again.

But in journalism you d on’t s t o p because you’re un-

comfortable and eventually you get used to it. I have walked around a convention center and talked to complete strangers about controversial topics, interviewed coaches about firings on staff and have had to cover big wins and even bigger losses in sports. Every one of these experiences, though hard and awkward at the time, made me more outgoing and willing to talk to basically anyone I see. That is something that I will never lose thanks to my time on The Sidekick.

Journalism taught me how to deal with people. The ones I got along with, and the ones I would have rather not had to deal with. Being an editor puts you in a position that is dependent on your cooperation with other people, and for someone as hardheaded as me that wasn’t always easy. I had to learn to put my trust in others’ ability to get stuff done, and take responsibility as a leader. And it taught me the importance of being positive in times of stress, which there were a lot of.

But every stressful moment was matched with a fun memory inside D115.

Looking back on the past four years there are definitely some things that I would change, but being a member of The Sidekick is not one of them.

It was hard and stressful, but it was also exciting and fun.

It made me the person I am today, and gave me opportunities and experiences that I could not have had otherwise. Though my time on staff is almost up, I will always cherish the memories in D115.

Sammy Robben Sports Editor

finding a niche

youth with friends?

Don’t have friends?

Go make some. There are over 2,000 kids at the high school; you’re bound to get along with someone.

It is not going to be perfect; you’ll cry, your heart will be shattered time and time again - not only by a heartthrob, but by family, and most painfully, friends, who will go from being your best friend one day to that stranger the next. But it is important to recognize that these individuals will help mold the person you are becoming, and this experience is a part of life.

You might think that graduating, finally getting that freedom that college grants you, is all you really want, but when the time comes, when you finally realize how bad your senioritis is, you are going to wish that you could go back, change something, do something, because as weird as it is, you’re still going to feel a little bit like that high school freshman, lost and confused about where you want to go. And no matter how many times you huff and puff “I can’t wait to leave” after a fight with your parents, leaving them will not be easy.

You’ll be practically alone.

Embrace high school, embrace your family, because before you know it, it’ll all be gone, and all will be lost time if you don’t just try a little bit.

Kimberly Del Angel Entertainment Editor

For the past four years, I’ve been climbing endlessly, longing to reach the top of the mountain that is Coppell High School.

But now that I’m pulling myself up onto the summit, I am not experiencing the glorious triumphant feeling that I expected.

From the top of the mountain, I can now see the panorama of my life more clearly. I now see even larger mountains looming in my future - mountains I have no idea how I will manage to climb. But looking back down I see that the mountain I just climbed, despite all its rocks and jagged edges, has made me stronger and equipped me to fearlessly challenge any mountain in my future.

As a freshman, I stood at the base of the mountain, looking up at it hesitantly.

I had no clue what I wanted to do, what I was interested in, who my friends would be. I grabbed my first handhold when, on a whim, I signed up for a 9th grade journalism class. From there, I started climbing and never looked back.

I found my niches in the band hall and in D115.

Through four years in band, I learned the value of hard work, endurance and never giving up. I learned how satisfying of an experience it is to work in unity with a large group of people to achieve a common goal. I witnessed every single Coppell football game, marched in the Alamodome at state finals twice and played at Chicago Symphony Hall.

Through three years as a writer and editor for The Sidekick, I learned the value of the written word, of journalism. I discovered my love for opinion writing and its power to challenge people’s perspectives, show

them new points of view or inspire them to take action. I traveled to journalism conventions in Anaheim, Calif. and Seattle, Wash., won some awesome awards and wrote columns for The Dallas Morning News as part of the Voices program.

Along the way, I forged friendships and met some truly great people. High school was miserable at times, yes, but all of these positive, life-changing experiences overwhelmingly outweigh every bruise I received during the climb. I want to thank my parents, my friends, my band directors, Sidekick adviser Chase Wofford, English teacher Zach Sherman and all of the other people who invested their time to help me find my path up the high school mountain and become who I am today.

My high school journey wasn’t a smooth one. There were all-nighters and awkward moments. Mistakes made and tests bombed. Long hours marching in the hot sun and long hours staring at blank Word documents. But standing here at the summit, I look down fondly at my last four years and wouldn’t change a thing.

As my final column for The Sidekick comes to a close, I realize that this isn’t the destination. There is no destination; there is only the journey. As I turn my back on high school, I am ready to boldly face the next mountain in my journey.

Thomas Hair Opinions Editor

senior columns 7

MAY 2013

[of The Sidekick]

Photos by Regan Sullivan

It was great to go to events I wouldn’t normally go to and learn things while taking pictures.

Rowan Khazendar, Photo Editor

Photo illustration by Rowan Khazendar and Addy Buigas-Lopez

High school comes full circle

She pulled out her color coded binder and agenda and filled in her schedule for the first week of school. She used a different color for each class and made boxes in the margins to check off each item when it was finished.

That was the year she started high school, and she swore she would stay organized and do all her homework without procrastinating. It was like starting anew – new school, new friends, new adventures to come.

That was the year her parents started fighting, and they promised it wasn’t her fault, that it had nothing to do with her or her sister. But it got to be too much for them, and they split up.

That was the year her little sister started middle school, and could no longer be considered a “little girl.” They had always been close, but they quickly grew closer because she seemed older and they had more in common. *** She opened her worn out spiral journal and scribbled down her to do list on the first clean page she found. She did this every day, and every day only a few items on the list got done.

That was the year she thought she had the hang of high school already; she was a sophomore. She was ready to move on and start thinking about college.

That was the year she was getting used to the separation, and her parents found new partners. She did too, and they fell in love and quickly became best friends.

That was the year she joined the newspaper staff, and it came to define her. She used writing as her outlet and loved sharing her thoughts with people she would never talk to otherwise. It gave her confidence and got her involved with school events. *** She flipped over the assignment due next period and scrambled to write down her teacher’s reminders. She shoved it in her backpack in between the dozens of other papers and hoped she would be able to find it later.

That was the year she let 11th grade take its toll on her, and she made more mistakes than she can count. She stayed up for all hours of the night, she did things she regretted and tainted relationships she needed.

But that was the year her parents started talking again and things looked up for them. They moved back in together and her family went back to normal, the way it should be.

That was the year she and her sister became inseparable. As she started applying to colleges, they kept getting closer, not being able to imagine a world without each other.

That was the year she became an editor, and she started to give back to The Sidekick which had changed her life in ways she

never could have expected. *** She submitted the last of her college applications and started to think about her future. She finally realized how close she was to living on her own, to seeing reality without blinders.

That was her senior year, and it was filled with more ups and downs than she would have ever imagined.

That was the year one of her best friends committed suicide, and the year she committed to study English education at Florida State University.

That was the year her parents officially reunited, and the year she would have to leave all her friends behind.

That was the year her little sister started high school, and she realized how much she had grown, and how much she would miss in the years to come.

But that was the year that signified the start of a new life, a new future ahead of her, and she looked forward to it more than anything else she could think of. *** Now she stares at the blinking cursor on the open document in front of her and wonders how she can sum up her high school years in one story, then watches as the words fill themselves on the page.

Addy Buigas-Lopez Business Manager

(Above) Freshman Rachel Buigas-Lopez and seniors Ynno Madlambayan, Addy Buigas-Lopez, Alex Riggs and Taylor Crumpton reflect on their high school years. (Right) Senior photographers Rowan Khazendar, Rachel Bush, Rinu Daniel, Jessica Rivera and Lauren Ussery come out from behind their cameras. Khazendar will be attending the University of Texas at Austin to pursue geology. Bush will be going to Texas A&M University to study telecommunications. Daniel will be venturing to the University of Texas at Dallas for an education in biomedical engineering. Rivera will be a student at Texas Tech University as a business major. Ussery will also attend the University of Texas at Austin, but will be pursuing a major in studio arts.

It’s really fun having a whole collection of photos from events other than my own.

Rachel Bush

I loved meeting new people while taking pictures. It makes me really glad I joined The Sidekick staff.

Rinu Daniel

I have had so many opportunities to experience events from a new perspective and show others how I have captured them.

Jessica Rivera

Some of my favorite memories come from shooting major events around town, and now I’d like to continue it in college as well.

Lauren Ussery

8 media

MAY 2013

Carrington rounds up success as sole senior editor ELIZABETH SIMS Staff Writer

Senior Jennifer Carrington joined the Round-Up yearbook staff her junior year in order to get involved in the school, make new friends and utilize her passion for photography and design.

After a year of taking thousands of photos and filling the pages of the book as a staffer, Carrington wanted to contribute even more to the class she had grown to love. This led her to take on the position of editor-in-chief.

“I wanted to be chief because I could have a lot more of a say in the yearbook,” Carrington said. “Editors are given a chance to design the entire book while the staffers just put in text and photos.”

Stepping into this position, Carrington quickly realized that she was the only senior serving as an editor on the staff.

“I like being the only senior editor sometimes, but there are times when I need senior input.

Sometimes it’s just nice to have input from someone in my grade who has experienced the things I’ve experienced,” Carrington said. “There are pros and cons of both. It’s nice to have people in grades under me because they know things that I may not know because they are not in my grade.”

Despite the pros and cons of being the only senior editor, her fellow editors and staffers look up to her for her leadership, work ethic and ability to edit.

“She gets her stuff done, and she is really creative and organized. She just has a natural

ability to edit. She encourages the girls to get their stuff done while making sure it is good quality and helps them learn while doing it,” junior sports editor Lauren Cullison said. “She is just a great leader because she leads through her actions. You never feel like there is a hierarchy because she can be your friend and still lead you. ” Though being a strong leader for the staff is an important part of her position as editor-in-chief, Carrington has made great strides to break away from the usual page templates and move the design of the yearbook in a new direction.

“This year we really worked to make the design of the yearbook more based on content,” Carrington said. “We’ve been going for more modern elements and fewer crazy colors. This year it’s been a lot more blacks, whites, grays and reds without a lot of thick lines and slanted pictures.

We used a lot of inspiration from GQ Magazine because it has a really modern design to it.”

In addition to all the pressures that come with being editor-in-chief, Carrington was also met with the challenge of adjusting to a new adviser, Sallyanne Buckley, after the former yearbook adviser, Rachel Pellegrino, left at the end of the 2011-12 school year. “[Carrington] had a good grasp on what needed to get done.

She was very willing to embrace change because this was a trial and error year,” Buckley said.

“She has so much talent and a dedication to excellence. She is the glue that holds the staff together.”

With graduation just around the corner,

Carrington already has plans to attend Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches to study advertising design and photography.

“I have always been an artsy person,” Carrington said. “I have always liked to draw and paint and take pictures. When I got to yearbook, I really realized that I loved photography, and I think that is why I decided to pursue photography and design.”

Though it will be a bittersweet time for the staff once the year draws to an end and the seniors move on to college, they will be able to draw from the legacy that Carrington has left to carry them into the future.

“She is such a people person and she is so warm. This warmth makes people want to do their best for her,” Buckley said. “She demands excellence, and her legacy will be to continue to try to raise the bar each and every year to produce the very best yearbook for this school.”

“I was really interested in film and drawn to the broadcast journalism aspect of KCBY,” Olson said. “It looked like so much fun and turned out to be a great thing to be part of.”

Olson plans on taking film classes at the University of Texas in Austin, but as of now her major will be finance. “[KCBY adviser Irma Kennedy] has taught us so much about communication and cooperation, which will help me in any field I choose,” Olson said.

For Struck, her love for broadcasting started before she came to CHS. “I did multimedia in middle school because I was very tech savvy,” Struck said. “Whenever I watched KCBY for the first time I fell in love with and wanted to be a program director one day.”

Struck will be attending the University of Oklahoma in the Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication in the fall.

A & Q with Jennifer Carrington What is your guilty pleasure?

Starbucks iced caramel macchiato

Who is your favorite artist?

John Mayer

What is your favorite high school memory?

Being on the sidelines taking pictures at the home football games

What is the thing you are going to miss most about high school?

Being in yearbook and the people I met in the class

Photo by Rowan Khazendar

Seniors ready to roll the credits on their KCBY career STEPHANIE ALEXANDER Staff Writer

Eight eyes burn through a computer screen. Four people franticly edit videos, and wait for the last KCBY episode of the school year to finish exporting.

Seniors Jen Olson, Haley Struck, Eric Park and Davis DeLoach are the program directors for the 2012-2013 school year and are approaching the end of their reign over high school journalism.

“KCBY has been like a second family to me,” Olson said.

With a growing amount of staff members every year, ranging from sophomores to seniors, KCBY is the media melting pot of Coppell High School.

“In KCBY you meet so many people that you would have never met, and you learn about them. I learned to be the leader they need rather than the leader they want.”

-Hayley Struck, senior “In KCBY you meet so many people that you would have never met, and you learn about them,” Struck said. “I learned to be the leader people need rather than want.”

With all Struck has soaked up from her time in KCBY, her ultimate goal is to be a producer at a nightly news show.

With KCBY alumni in the family, Park could not resist but taking on the torch of high school journalism.

“I joined KCBY wanting to film a little, but then I got addicted to its magic,” Park said. “I had so much fun the first year. I just could not get out of it.”

Park also plans on pursing finance at UT Austin, but having film as well for a double major.

“Aside from film, KCBY has taught me how to make meaningful relationships with other people,” Park said.

DeLoach being the fourth director plans on going to Baylor to study journalism and wants to end up in sports journalism.

“I took the intro class freshman year and decided to apply all that I learned to KCBY,” DeLoach said. “It has really taught me values on attitude, deadlines and procrastination.”

Even though these will be some big shoes to fill, next year’s program directors have been chosen and they are anticipating another great year ahead. Juniors Hamin Kim, Kasey Tucker, Natalie Hinson and Regan Sullivan will take on the new leading roles and be the running force of KCBY. “This particular group of program directors set a whole new standard, in my seven years here, they are the strongest team I’ve had on staff,” Kennedy said.

“They have really paved the way for the new directors so next year should be even better.”

cccc Photos by Rinu Daniel and Mike Breton

media 9

MAY 2013

Photo by Mike Breton

Senior staff to take on world beyond newsroom CHRISTINA BURKE Features Editor

From cat calendars to national recognitions, the graduating class of 2013 has unmistakably left its mark on D115.

Under the leadership of this year’s senior class, The Dallas Morning News chose The Sidekick as a finalist for Best Newspaper at its annual High School Journalism Day, and the International League Press Conference presented Coppell Student Media with a Gold Star Award.

In addition to the success The Sidekick has obtained at contests and conventions, this year also marked the first annual Sidekick Strides for Life 5K fundraiser, organized by senior business

manager Addy Buigas-Lopez, from which The Sidekick donated over $1,500 to the Taylor’s Gift scholarship program.

All recognitions aside, Sidekick seniors can testify that there is more to take away from their time on staff than just tangible awards.

“The Sidekick for me has meant getting outside of my comfort zone and developing new skills,” senior editor-in-chief Michelle Pitcher said. “I loved the freedom I had as a journalist and the access to important information that I got. It’s an amazing feeling to be a trusted source of information at the school.”

Working as a journalist in a high school environment gives off an invigorating power that is unique, worthwhile and helps stu-

dents develop a plethora of skills.

“I was really shy going into high school, and being in journalism really got me out of my shell because I had to go talk to a bunch of people I had never talked to before,” senior sports editor Sammy Robben said. “I am much more outgoing and opinionated now. I also learned a lot about writing, page designing and photography.”

Robben is one of many seniors who have spent the last four years excelling in journalism under the instruction of The Sidekick adviser Chase Wofford.

“I have more three-year staff members this year than ever before,” Wofford said. “Some of them have literally grown up in here. I’ve developed strong relationships with them and I’ll miss getting to work with them.”

Skills and life lessons learned in D115 extend far beyond the field of journalism.

The Sidekick has provided many great friendships and opportunities for staff members that will not soon be forgotten with graduation.

“Being on staff has taught me a lot about time management and how to work with others well,” senior news editor Julianne Cauley said. “I have gotten a lot closer to the staff and we made a lot of really fun memories both inside and outside of the classroom.”

The graduating class of 2013 benefitted The Sidekick in so many ways beyond its journalistic skills. The students’ incredible leadership will be missed among underclassmen.

“The senior class displayed a pride in The Sidekick that the underclassmen hope to carry on,” junior Kristen Shepard said.

“I’ve gotten to know them really well and wish them the best in the future.”

After an undoubtedly long journey, graduation is just around the corner for seniors.

Even those not planning on pursuing journalism collegiately have many memories to take from The Sidekick and know they are always welcome in D115.

“They’ve done everything they can do here; it’s time for them to move on to bigger and better things,” Wofford said. “I thank them for their hard work; it’s certainly been an honor for me to have them. They have left such a legacy behind.”

Class of 2013 Most memorable Sidekick moments “The sucess from the 5K is a good memory because everyone ended up working together to help two really great causes.”

ADDY BUIGAS-LOPEZ Business Manager

“The Dallas Morning News Day was my favorite because I learned a lot about journalism.”

Design Editor

“My favorite memory was when I was interviewing someone about JFK being killed and it brought them to tears. I knew that I had gotten through to them.”

JORDAN THOMPSON

“My favorite memory would be when I wrote my Victory Place story.

It was my first 24 hour turn-around, and I felt like a reporter.”

CORRINA TAYLOR

Director of Social Media

Staff Writer

“The JEA journalism convention in Seattle was my favorite memory. We got to learn a lot about journalism, and we also got to do a lot of sightseeing.”

Opinions Editor

Staff Writer

Staff Writer

HALEY MADIGAN

THOMAS HAIR

ERICA ROHDE

BEN COWLISHAW

“Seeing everyone’s bright and shining face every day is my favorite memory.”

“I got to interview one of Reagan’s national security advisors, Robert McFarlane, which was the coolest thing ever.”

“I love getting the new issues from the storage room to see all the hard work that we put into our final products.”

“Making the best friends I have had through Sidekick is my favorite memory.”

KIMBERLY DEL ANGEL Entertainment Editor

ROWAN KHAZENDAR Photo Editor

10 academics

MAY 2013

Queens of CHS: Ayyagari twins reign over senior class JORDAN BICKHAM Staff Writer

The typical birthday list of a teenager includes a phone or clothes, but seniors Sneha and Raga Ayyagari asked to fund their own non-profit organization.

The Ayyagari twins got the idea of starting their own organization after being board members of their parents’ organization called the Timeless Changes Foundation. Through this foundation, they have helped improve education and healthcare in India.

The idea for their own foundation came after finding out their adopted dog, Louie, was a puppy mill dog.

“We wanted to spread awareness about animal welfare issues and serve as a voice for the voiceless animals who suffered,” Sneha said. “We extended this idea to include children and family welfare and after planning for a couple years, we asked for money to start the organization for our 16th birthday.”

They used this money to set up the organization’s website and register with the government as a non-governmental organization. Then, in the summer of 2011, they visited Tanzania with the Timeless Changes Foundation to meet with directors of non-profits. During their trip, they also visited schools, which opened their eyes to the horrible situation many Africans deal with on a daily basis.

“We decided that this need

Photo illustration by Rinu Daniel

Senior twins Sneha and Raga Ayyagari are known for their major accomplishments throughout their high school years. They will both attend Stanford University this fall.

resonated with out mission, ‘To shed light on issues related to the welfare of animals, wildlife and children by supporting organizations dedicated to these causes through fundraising, volunteering and education,” Sneha said.

After the trip, they began their Kitabu (which translates to ‘book’ in Swahili) for Kids project.

Through this project, they raised enough money to ship 500 books back to Tanzania to the schools they visited during their trip.

The trip was eye-opening and inspired Sneha and Raga to work back at home

to help those in Africa. Sne- test, the awarded prize money ha entered an essay contest that was immediately put into their was called “A Voice for the Ani- foundation in order to help fund mals” in which she wrote about future projects as they both believe that there is the abuse of still more work to be chimpan“Sneha and Raga are done in Tanzania. zees in the “In some of entertainboth incredible, the schools we visment induswhich is why I am not ited, there was only try.

This surprised they were one textbook for unique essay topic was both able to make it hundreds of kids to share,” Raga chosen afinto Stanford.” said. “Many were ter she read -Sydney Owens, junior unable to pass sevan article enth grade within National Geographic about Dr. out passing their exams due to Jane Goodall’s work with the lack of resources, so we just chimpanzees in Tanzania. wanted to help out with that.”

Both Sneha and Raga are “When I learned about the abuses of chimpanzees in enter- planning on continuing to help tainment, I felt that was an is- others through their organisue that deserved to be explored zation, the Louie Foundation. and publicized,” Sneha said. Whether it is children in AfriAfter winning the con- ca or puppy mill dogs, their or-

Being named a National Merit Semi -Finalist

Meeting incredible leaders and friends in Teen Leadership Coppell junior year

Proudest Moment in High School

Favorite Memory

ganization always has a crucial role in assisting those in need.

Not only do they have a non-profit under their names, but they also were accepted to Stanford University.

With high school in the rearview mirror, the Ayyagari twins are ready to begin on the road to their future in California at Stanford. But, unlike old times, the twins are splitting up and moving on separate paths. After years of classes together in elementary, middle and high school, the twins are going in different directions.

“How Stanford roommates work is that you fill out a survey and then they pair you up randomly, so we do not find out [our roommates] until we move in,” Raga said. “And generally, they separate twins. They put them in different dorms.”

With an acceptance to Stanford and a non-profit organization, the Ayyagari twins have a bright future ahead of them.

Even with so many aspects of their lives still overlapping, they are still planning on being individuals in college, an idea that surprises some of their friends.

“Sneha and Raga are both incredible, which is why I am not surprised they both were able to make it into Stanford,” junior Sydney Owens said. “I would have had a harder time imagining them at separate schools. I just cannot imagine them splitting and going in different directions for college.”

Even with different courses and different dorms, Sneha and Raga continue to move together as they look into the distance future at career paths.

“We plan to continue with non-profit work, maybe something with environmental conservation or public health, or even possibly combining biolo gy and service,” Raga said.

“We are also interested in writing and maybe writing some books together.”

Getting accepted into Stanford University Attending all of the school events such as prom, homecoming and football games

Favorite Teachers

Jennifer Martin (Science) , Zach Sherman (English) and Jennifer Furnish (Social Studies)

Something in the public health or environmmental conservation fields

Intended Career

Something that combines my interests in biology, writing and public service

Two for being a National Merit Semi-Finalist and in the Top Ten

Number of “I Rock CHS T-Shirts”

I got one at the National Merit recognition luncheon and the other for being in the Top Ten

Jennifer Martin (Science) , Zach Sherman (English) and Yvonne Arista (Spanish)

Photo by Rinu Daniel

academics 11

MAY 2013

OH, THE PLACES THEY’LL GO! KIMBERLY DEL ANGEL Entertainment Editor

As the school year comes to a close, the buzz around the senior class revolves around college. Where is everyone going? While some will be packing up their bags for the haul up to Boston, others will hop on a

plane on their way to England, the Netherlands, Finland and Japan – and not for vacation.

Coppell High School is academically renowned for its prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) program that exposes students to a broader spectrum of topics,in preparation for a series of exams at the close of their senior year, ultimately helping

them transition more easily into international schools. While IB is not required for students planning to pursue a degree out of the country, the majority of students attending an international university this upcoming fall in Coppell ISD come from that group because of the easy credit transfer.

While all seem hesitant about the colossal move, they

Photos by Rowan Khazendar

“When I was younger, I never even dreamt that I would be in England [for college], but after trials and everything, I instantly knew that I wanted to go there,” Austin Broyles said.

TIIA TURKULAINEN Tiia Turkulainen moved to Coppell from Finland when she was right out of elementary school and has always had an inkling that she would be going back after high school to pursue her studies.

Turkulainen is undecided between Metropolia and Diak University but will be pursuing a degree in social work. While this college experience will benefit her financially, she also believes that it will allow her to get reacquainted with her culture while receiving one of the arguably best educations globally.

I’m going to learn a lot, and I am excited to see new things and life in a different perspective.”

Come along with the senior class of 2013 and meet some of the international graduates going overseas and beyond, from both Coppell High School and New Tech High@Coppell.

Safe travels my friend turvallista matkustaa, ystäväni!

KEN CARDONA el An ge l

AUSTIN BROYLES

NTH@C senior Austin Broyles never imagined that he would one day be continuing his education in England, nonetheless playing soccer while he was at it. From the age of 5, Broyles has been scoring goals across the field, and now he has kicked the ball right over the pond.

This fall he will be attending Richmond, The American International University, studying international business while playing for their developmental soccer academy. He hopes to get recruited by one of the clubs and play professionally but is uncertain of what is to come or his plans to return to America.

share the excitement for the prospect of a new beginning in a different country. This exposure will provide them with a fresh outlook on life and change of scenery.

“The people [in Finland] are so different,” senior Tiia Turkulainen said. “They are more reserved and shy, whereas over here everyone is like ‘hello, I love you!’ – It is going to be weird, but

D rly be m i K by hic p a Gr

“The experience I received in The United States will help me communicate well in Japan,” Ken Cardona said.

Going from Coppell to Tokyo is going to be a big jump, but senior Ken Cardona is willing to take on the challenge and is excited to return to his native country where he lived up until six years ago and relearn the language along with new things at the University of Waseda.

The low cost of college has made Japan an appealing opportunity, but for Cardona it appears that the ability to have a chief method of transportation through buses and trains is just as appealing.

JOEL NOVAMO

From Finland to the United States to Finland and back to Texas, senior Joel Novamo is returning once again to Finland, continuing his studies at Aalto University, a recognized business school.

What seemed like a great option to save money at first has turned into an opportunity to relearn the Finnish culture and reconnect with family and friends for Novamo, who hopes to immerse himself in the country’s lifestyle.

Although he is fluent in Finnish, Novamo is nervous about studying in a different language after attending school in America most of his life but believes it will be a challenge that will benefit him in the long run.

KATIE MUDD

This fall, senior Katie Mudd will be joining her sister in the Netherlands while attending the University of Utrecht, an international university, where she will be in the liberal arts program focusing on language and psychology.

After moving back and forth between France and the United States, Mudd has had a taste of life outside of Texas and has fallen in love with the lifestyle of Europeans.

Attending college in The Netherlands is the perfect opportunity for her to get the broader college experience she yearns for.

KLEMENTINE KLEIN Born and raised in Germany, senior Klementine Klein is returning to the Europe, but not quite home. Klein will be attending Masastricht University in the Netherlands this upcoming fall in their English Arts and Culture program and expects to choose a major in media development.

Klein recently made the decision to attend Masters due to her family’s return to Germany and reduced college expenses.

The language barrier will be a struggle, but Klein is confident in her ability to learn Dutch and has accepted the challenge.

“It’s a way for me to expand my horizons internationally - going to a different country, learning a different language, meeting people like me,” Klementine Klein said.

1 12 in-depth

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TOP TEN

3 2 45 8 6 7 910 Major: Human Biology or Environmental Science Dream job: Something that combines my love for animals, the environment and education Little known fact: I can make an origami penguin Motivation: My family and friends Favorite food: Cherry tomatoes or persimmon Study tip: Ask questions during class, take notes when you read and use those to study for quizzes and tests Favorite place in Coppell: Kid Country Average hours of sleep: Seven or eight Pet peeve: Laziness

LINFENG LU

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AMANDA STEPHENS

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CAROLINE KERSEN

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ELIZABETH DEAN

Major: Plan II and Linguistics Dream job: Something in law Favorite food: Pasta Miss most about Coppell: The weather. I have become acclimated to the long Average hours of sleep: Five to seven springs and falls in Texas but in Chicago, it is going to be cold Favorite restaurant: Pan Acean Guilty pleasure: I have about three desserts on any given day.

Scariest class: AP Physics B Favorite restaurant: Medici (in Chicago) Advice for freshmen: Participate in activities that Special talent: We speak at ridiculously fast speeds in debate so I are interesting and where you can be successful, incan talk at about 350 words per minute which is stead of just doing something because it is what your about 100 words faster than in a normal conversation. friends are doing or what you did in middle school.

Little known fact: I used to rock climb competitively.

Pets: Two cats and one dog Study tip: Use an agenda. I do not remember anything if I do not write it down.

Motivation: I am pretty self driven and like to do well for its own sake Pet peeve: People who do not care Favorite place in Coppell: A treehouse by a pond across from CMS North Cool fact: I went to Bush Institute for debate and President Bush was there Pets: One dog Coolest vacation spot: Barcelona Biggest fear: Shots

ity s r Unive n a h r i t i s C e n e l Abi

Major: Honors Interdisciplinary Studies Favorite food: Pasta Average hours of sleep: Seven Guilty pleasure: Pecan pie Favorite movie: Inception Biggest fear: Elevators and flying in an airplane Special talent: Pingpong and skiing Motivation: Faith Celebrity crush: Ryan Gosling Hobby: Singing Coolest vacation spot: Italy

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sity r e v i Un

Major: Business Guilty pleasure: Gossip Girl, Vampire Diaries, 90210 Golden moment at CHS: Performing at state with marching band senior year Advice for freshmen: Work hard freshman year because it counts more than you think Embarrassing moment: Getting sent to the office freshman year for telling the substitute teacher she needs to study Average hours of sleep: Seven with two-hour nap Scariest class: AP Human Geography with Mrs. Vail Little known fact: Vegetarian for seven years Miss most about CHS: IB family Favorite restaurant: Brio Celebrity crush: Adam Levine Pet peeve: Slow hallway walkers

G eo rget ow n

Major: Business Miss most about CHS: Football games Scariest class: AP Human Geography with Leslie Vail Golden moment at CHS: When I walked through the door Study tip: Understand it first, then memorize Favorite food: BBQ Ribs Favorite TV show: Friends Favorite restaurant: Genghis Grill Biggest fear: Cockroaches Special talent: Singing Little known fact: I used to tightrope Mentor: My father Motivation: Happiness Celebrity crush: Emma Watson Pet peeve: The chalkboard noise

Major: Biochemistry Scariest class: AP Chemistry with Bob White Guilty pleasure: Comparing grades Favorite place in Coppell: The benches at Andy Brown Park Golden moment at CHS: Top 5% pictures with Kevin Casey Coolest vacation spot: Grand Canyon Skywalk Little known fact: I failed health class freshman year Favorite show: Suits Biggest fear: Senioritis Study tip: Time management Mentor: Jae Kim Motivation: Food Celebrity crush: Emma Watson

class of 2013 º class of 20 13

e T f University o

JEN

KIM

Un iversity of Texas

13 º lass of 20 c º 3 1

Major: Biochemistry Dream job: Dentist Guilty pleasure: Reality TV shows Favorite show: Revenge Biggest fear: Losing my family Advice for freshmen: Work hard and it will fall into place.

Role model: My mom Little known fact: My nails are always painted with Essie’s Fiji.

Average hours of sleep: Seven Embarrassing moment: Falling down freshman stairs Coolest vacation spot: Bahamas Hobby: Shopping

Uni versity of Texas at Dallas

Major: Biological Engineering Dream job: Aerospace engineer Scariest class: AP Physics B Favorite food: Fried rice Biggest fear: Getting a B Special talent: I can memorize things very well Little known fact: I like to start homework at midnight Study tip: Read the material Mentor: Tim Dixon Motivation: To do the best that I can Celebrity crush: Emma Stone Pet peeve: People not attempting to do work before asking for help

of 20 class of 201 3 º class of 2013 º class

Stanford University

MI

St

ity s r e Univ d r o anf

class of 2013 º class of 20 13 º

STEPHANIE EMERSON

Major: Human Biology or Environmental Science Dream career: A mix between philanthropist, writer and scientist Favorite food: I eat a mango every day before I sleep.

Little known fact: I have eaten pizza on five continents with my family.

Study tip: Study a lot two days before the exam and use the night before to review.

Miss most about CHS: The support of the staff and my friends Pet peeves: Apathy, loud and/or screechy noises, lizards Pets: I have one adorable Yorkshire terrier named Oliver.

, Rinu Daniel, Photos by Rachel Bush gan Sullivan Lauren Ussery and Re

xa sa tD allas

Info rm Grap ation by Tina Huang hics by Haley Madigan

NJ AE

RAGA AYYAGARI

class of 2013 º class of 2013 º

14 fine arts

MAY 2013

Vivacé! seniors ‘bring the house down’ in spring show Photos by Lauren Ussery

Senior Katie Nall sings her last solo as a Vivacé! member with ”Midnight Train to Georgia.”

KRISTEN SHEPARD Staff Writer

In their annual Spring Show, Vivacé! stayed true to their theme “Bring the House Down” and with it they brought the audience out of their seats, brought upbeat surprises and brought a variety of emotions and music. It is safe to say that Vivacé! left the crowd both cheering and speechless.

The show kicked off with an introductory video of the cast to the tune of “I’ll Be There For You” by The Rembrants (made popular as the theme song of hit TV show ‘Friends’). The crowd

eagerly shouted out the names of the cast members and cheered at the many impressive moments of the show.

There was not a single number that appeared unpolished or dull; throughout the entire two-hour show the audience remained engaged and nothing short of amazed. Senior Katie Nall blew the crowd away in her solo, “Midnight Train to Georgia”.

The crowd smiled as the ensemble came together in “Hey Soul Sister” and seniors Ben Varughese and Chase Worthington melted girls’ hearts in “Wanted.”

Several impressive solos and duets were a part of the show as

well. senior captains Sarah Bauer and Aubrey Kennedy stood out as leaders on stage and off stage throughout preparing for the show.

Besides the extraordinary talent evident in this year’s group, it was the chemistry between members made the show so impressive.

“We’ve grown so close together this year,” Vivacé! senior Keaton Looney said. “We spend a lot of time together outside of rehearsals and actually were not supposed to have rehearsal during TAKS testing week but we met up anyways.”

The dynamics of the team this year are also very interesting, with 18 of the 24 members being seniors, the team is overwhelmed with leadership and experience. The overwhelming presence of seniors was evident in ‘Change the World’, where all seniors introduced themselves and shared their plans following high school.

“It has almost been a power struggle,” Looney said. “It really has been great though and having so many seniors has made our team stronger and with more fresh ideas. We have been doing a lot of recruiting and have a big space to fill.”

Further proof of the deep friendships that grow in Vivacé were evident in the Alumni number, where current and former Vivacé! members joined together to perform ‘Come Sail Away’.

The Alumni number specifically brought out the Swaldi family as

Class of 2012 graduate Rachael Swaldi joined the ensemble while her sister junior Holly Swaldi watched from the audience.

“I’ve been watching the team practice from KCBY and couldn’t wait to see the final show,” Holly said. “My sister did Vivacé! for three years in high school and my little brother wants to join when he gets to the high school, so as a family we really love the group and the performances.”

The Spring Show is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the hours spent preparing for the show. In balancing school, sports and practices, Vivacé! members endure long weekends and late night rehearsals to produce these shows.

“Lots of hours of preparation, lots of late nights of homework after long rehearsals, but come showtime it is all worth it,” Vivacé! parent Amy Szalkowski said. “[junior Wesley Szalkwoski] lives for the stage, she comes alive out there. Over one hundred kids try out each year, and Vivacé! really touches the community of Coppell and brings kids and parents together.”

Their hard work was not without reward, however, as nearly half the crowd waited for the cast to come out from the dressing room with flowers and words of praise. Vivacé! delivered talent in their two showings, one on Friday May 3 at 7:30 p.m. and another on Saturday May 4 at 2 p.m.

Senior Amanda Stephens sings “Bring the House Down” at the Vivacé! spring show.

Smith to continue stage career with theater major THOMAS HAIR Opinions Editor

Photo by Rachel Bush

Many children grow up watching animated Disney musicals like “Beauty and the Beast,” or even classic musicals such as “Wicked” or “The Sound of Music.”

Senior Alex Smith enjoys watching musicals too – but aspires to make a career out of being the one on the stage.

Though his ultimate goal is to perform on Broadway in New York, the apex of musical theater, Smith is aware of many other possibilities for a career in stage performance, such as regional theater circuits around the country and cruise line entertainment.

“It takes tons of dedication to make a successful career in musical theatre; you might get one hundred callbacks before you even get to set foot on stage,” theater director Lisa Tabor said. “But I know he has the capacity to do it and to stick with it. He can do pretty much anything.”

Smith plans to begin pursuing this dream as a Musical Theatre major at Baldwin Wallace University in Berea, Ohio.

Baldwin Wallace is a school with very strong programs in the arts and a distinguished Conservatory of Music. Smith also considered Pace University in New York and Otterbein University in Ohio because of their strong musical theatre programs.

“A lot of people are wondering why I have not chosen Pace to go straight to New York, but I don’t think it’s my time to go to New York yet,” Smith said. “I need to really hone in on training and that is exactly what Baldwin Wallace is going to do for me. By the end of our senior year, after all four years of training, they get you ready to go out and get a job right away.”

This decision was the culmination of a highly demanding audition process that dominated his senior year. Whereas most seniors simply fill out applications and wait for a letter, Smith had to travel extensively and directly audition for a spot in each school’s musical theatre program.

“It’s a hugely competitive thing and a very hectic process, and most people don’t realize that,” Smith said. “For most of the auditions you have to go somewhere to audition for them individually. You might have to do a thing called pre-screening before you get invited to a campus audition.”

Smith first discovered his talent for musical theater in 7th grade when Coppell Middle School North theatre instructor Brittney Reese encouraged him to perform in a musical at First

United Methodist Church. De- about just telling the story to the spite having no singing experi- audience and connecting to the ence, Smith sang along with the character. It’s not enough to just piano very well, impressing the be a character actor, I need to rest of the crew. develop my own style to bring Once Smith realized he had something new.” the ability to sing and act, his pasSmith is looking forward to sion for musical theater took off continuing to improve under the from there. direction of the outstanding facIn high school, Smith has ulty at Baldwin Wallace Universibeen dedicated to the theater ty. With continued improvement program, displaying his diversi- and practice, he is confident that ty by starhe will achieve his ring in mudream of being a sicals from professional per“I came in freshman former – perhaps “Into The Woods” to year wanting to be big on on the world’s “Beauty and stage and make people biggest stage in the Beast.”

Broadway. laugh but I’ve started Though he “It’s going to excels at co- realizing that there’s more be wonderful to medic chargrow as a person to it than that” acter roles, and as an actor -Alex Smith, senior Smith has there with a comdemonstrated pletely new set of impressive versatility as an actor. people,” Smith said. “It’s a con“He’s very funny, but my fa- servatory and all of these people vorite role Alex has played would that love music are going to be be the depressed father from Rab- under one roof, so it will be very bit Hole, the one-act he did this interesting to see what all I can year,” Tabor said. “He just had learn about music. I am looking such great depth with that charac- forward to being completely imter and such feeling and emotion.” mersed in something I love.”

Over the past four years, Smith has grown tremendously as a performer and experienced much success as a result. For example, Smith was recently nominated for Best Lead Actor in the 2013 Schmidt & Jones Awards.

“I came in freshman year wanting to be big on stage and make people laugh but I’ve started realizing that there’s more to it than that,” Smith said. “It’s all

career 15

MAY 2013

Overcash, West march into armed forces next year TOLU SALAKO Staff Writer

When seniors think about life after high school, they typically think about attending a four-year college or even straight to seeking employment. However, a few students at Coppell High School are planning to attend the U.S. Naval Academy and Texas A&M Military Academy. Some of these students include seniors Carter West and Nick Overcash.

Carter West A Boy Scout since elementary school, of become a MaCarter has always been a patriotic person rine officer.” and has always known that he wanted to As a mere high serve his country in any way he could. Since school freshman, freshman year, Carter has been working Carter knew that hard in order to hopefully attend the U.S. he wanted to go Naval Academy. He achieved this dream to an acadwhen he received his letter of acceptance in emy and February. worke d “When I opened the letter, I h a r d all four was both honored and really neryears to achieve vous,” West said. “I was nervous this goal. because of the basic training pro“It wasn’t until freshgram that I will have to attend man year that I became very seduring the summer, but mostly rious in going to academy, but I’ve honored. I worked really hard and always known that I wanted to serve was nice seeing my work being paid my country after high school,” West off.” said.

West says that he got his According to Carter, inspiration to apply to the he had a great time Naval Academy from during his years at both of his grandparCHS. He got to live ents who had served the high school for their country. experience and His parents have was able to do always been supthe things he portive of his deloved before cision and are very college. proud of Carter’s Carter is accomplishments truly honored throughout the to be a part years. of the Class of “I am very 2017 U.S. Naval proud of [Carter],” Academy and is mother Kay West said. looking forward “All of his hard work paid to the new exPhotos by Rinu Daniel off, and I’m experiences and cited for him to Senior Carter West has been a Boy Scout since elementary challenges to fulfill his dream school, pushing him to look into the U.S Naval Academy. come.

Nick Overcash

When Nick Overcash received his acDuring their sophomore year in ceptance letter to the Texas A&M Corps of college, students can go of one of two Cadets, overjoyed is an understatement of different routes of service: leadership or how he felt. military. Overcash plans to go through the Overcash will attend the Texas A&M’s military route. military academy where students receive For many seniors, family members basic training. The academy’s purpose is to played a major role when it came to athelp students prepare for future involvement tending a military academy. Overcash’s in the Army, Marines or Air Force. father attended West Point and his When Overcash first visited Texgrandparents were in the military. as A&M, he knew that this would be “I had so many great memhis first choice and worked extremely ories from West Point,” Darrell hard to achieve this goal.

Overcash said, “Like becoming “Ever since I was young, I knew a Company Commander my sethat I wanted to attend a military nior year, all of the military trainacademy,” Overcash said. “After hearing like learning to fly a helicopter. ing all of my family’s experiences, I knew I hope Nick makes many great that I had to work hard to get accepted memories during his time at into an academy, and thankfully I [TAMU] and learns nudid.” merous important Texas A&M is a welllife lessons.” known university with Unlike his a strong engineering grandparents, program. The Corps Overcash of Cadets provides hopes to get an opportunity for into the Masupport, learning, rine Corps leading, and camaand serve in raderie with hopes that manner. to positively impact “I am people’s life regardless so honored to of whether one chooses to attend A&M and pursue a military career or not.

I’m so excited to go “He’s a natural leader,” there in the fall,” Nick father Darrell Overcash said. said. “I’ve worked so hard “And the only advice I can for this and I will contingive him is to always try your ue to work just as hard at best and always look A&M.” forward to the future.” Senior Nick Overcash will be attending Texas A&M’s Corps of Cadets this upcoming year.

16 senior sports

MAY 2013

2013 SENIOR UIL

STATE CHAMPIONS continued from pg.5 will continue to play volleyball in college.

Beaty will attend the University of Mississippi, Pickrell will play at the University of California in Irvine, Ogbogu will play at the University of Texas in Austin and Bohannon will be playing at the University of Tulsa.

Seeing the success of their older classmates has encouraged the younger players to work hard to achieve their goals as well.

“We have key players leaving with all four of the seniors leaving, but we have enough on our court and on our bench that we will definitely be ready for next year,” sophomore setter Kylie Pickrell said.

“We will definitely know what to do when the time comes for playoffs again because we have watched such an amazing group of upperclassmen.”

While their time as a CHS athlete is ending, they will always remember what being a part of CHS athletics has taught them and the hard work it took for them to achieve success.

The second group of seniors that have proven just how talented the class of 2013 truly is the senior boys soccer players. With 14 seniors on the team there is no question that these boys had a major role in their successful season. The Cowboys brought home the CHS boys soccer programs second state championship.

For these seniors, winning state was a way for them to redeem poor playoff performances in their past three years as a Cowboys. Many of them were on the varsity team when the Hebron Hawks

l l a b Volley

knocked them out of playoffs in the first round when they were expected to make it deep i n t o the

playoffs for two years in a

Graphic by Juliane Cauley

Photo courtesy Cassidy Pickrell

Chiaka Ogbogu

Cassidy Pickrell

Erica Bohannon

Laura Beaty

row. This year they were determined to go out with a win.

“Losing in the first round like that gives you motiva-

tion for the whole year, and

r e c c So

it is just terrible to have to wait a whole yer to redeem yourself,” coach Chad Rakestraw said. “Seeing teams move on the shouldn’t have gottten to move on and just watching is hard. The motivation throughout the preseason and offseason and district was great for us.”

Unlike the volleyball seniors, not all the soccer seniors will be continuing on to play at the colligate level making their final win even more memorable. ”Knowing that this was my last season to play soccer made me want to win even more because after putting so much work into it for 14 years you don’t want to go out on a loss,” senior Nick Hazelrigg said. “Winning state was the perfect end to a very long soccer career.”

The Cowboys have

Photo courtesy Jacob Tucker

Josh Jauregui

Dustin Hodges

Austin Broyles

Wyatt Foster

Jarrett Weaver

Mitchell Parnell

Jacob Tucker

Nick Hazelrigg

Drake Lovelady

Dante Diciolli

Zanil Narsing

Stephen Wheatcroft

Chad Thomas

Hear from the captains

”We went into the season knowing how it would feel to win again, and we wanted that. - Cassidy Everything we did was to make sure we would be able to walk away from our final year as high Pickrell school volleyball players as champions”

three players moving on to a high level including Drake Lovelady, Wyatt Foster and Austin Broyles. Though for the three Cowboys that will be playing soccer in college the state finals game was still a memorable experience and something they will carry with them as they continue to play.

After achieving the ultimate goal of a state championship with the leadership of these seniors, the underclassmen look up to their senior teammates and strive to be like them when they step into the leadership position.

“I look up to the upperclassmen because they exemplify leadership on and off the field,” junior captain Emilio Morlett said. “Throughout the season they set the tone for what the attitude and work ethic should be in future years.”

Kevin Tovson

”Knowing that this was my last season to play soccer made me want to win even more because after putting so much work into it for 14 years you don’t want to go out on a loss.Winning state was the perfect end to a very long soccer career.”

-Nick Hazelrigg

senior sports 17

MAY 2013

Broyles takes on next level of soccer at FC RIASA ALEX NICOLL Sports Writer

An institution that brings the world’s brightest young soccer players in one place, an academy that has ties to professional teams like Bradford City, and an organization that promises a top-notch American education.

Add that all together and you get the Richmond International Academic and Soccer Academy.

FC RIASA has players from the four corners of the globe participating on its team, from Hong Kong to the United States, and Coppell senior Austin Broyles is soon to join them.

Few are chosen to be a part of this up-and-coming program (the team has only been formed since 2010) and out of around 80 kids Broyles said, he has the opportunity to be one of them.

He was not the first Broyles to get looked at by RIASA. His brother, Alex, 20, was actually what first peaked RIASA’s interests. Thanks to his dad, though, Austin got a shot to impress the same coaches that looked at his brother.

Ward Broyles, Austin and Alex’s father, first heard about the academy through one of Alex’s club teammates. He had another brother who came across the program by happen-stance and that’s how the Broyles family first came into contact with RIASA. “In the Dallas Cup they were looking at [Alex] and he ended up not going to RIASA and going to Texas A&M,” Austin said. “My dad asked them if they wanted to look at me and so they evaluated me my whole junior year and then they gave me a trial out. I got a chance to practice with the first team and received a spot.”

The ‘they’ is Dallas scout for RIASA, Eddie Puskarich.

Soccer has always been a part of Austin. Well, ever since his brother started playing.

“Austin got into soccer because of his brother,” Mr. Broyles said. “We tried everything: baseball, basketball, and soccer.”

From youth soccer to playing on varsity, Austin has always made an impact on his team; something he hopes translates over in England.

“Austin is a dynamic portion of our team. He adds a great personality to the group,” head coach Chad Rakestraw said. “He is a guy that can always make his teammates comfortable and put them at ease, and obviously with his ability to play, to attack it creates some chances for our team.”

Coppell soccer, he attests, has prepared him “very well” for this opportunity. It has given him the chance to get repetitions in, get his touch down, and get some appreciated game experience. His club team has improved his physicality and speed of play.

Making the jump from high school American soccer to a chance to for a play semi or professional in another country, like England, is a huge leap for anyone.

“It is tough for Americans to break into the professional ranks especially in other countries like England,” Rakestraw said.

For Austin, besides the pressure to perform, one of the biggest differences for him is something that he can’t control, which is the beautiful weather that England is known for.

“It was really cold,” Broyles said. “It will be hard to adapt to the atmosphere over there because it is cold, wet, and windy.

It’s really old-fashioned; they really aren’t that technologically savvy as we are over here.”

Broyles flew out over Thanksgiving break with his mother to face the coaches and conduct his try-out.

“They called me and then we sent emails back and forth,” Broyles said. “Then they told me the dates that I could come down to try-out. We emailed them and set the date.”

While there, he was able to see the facilities for himself. The campus had a couple of pitches, a turf-room and a state-of-theart weight room. In other words, Austin was impressed.

So was his mother, Donna Broyles, who, along with his dad, have reservations about letting her son spend a whole year in another continent alone.

“We’re still a little bit reluctant. That’s a big step.

We’ve told him Austin that he needs to make the right choices from now until September to prove to us that he is ready for this commitment,” Ward Broyles said.

Austin could not agree more with his parents’ feelings towards him leaving.

“I guess they’re a little scared, but they are supportive about it,” Broyles said. “They’re proud of me.”

The tryout was pretty intense. He had to play with the semi-professional team because the U-19 and U-21 teams were doing physical work-outs and the coaches wanted to see him play.

Broyles said that he went in and played scrimmages, tight drills, and finishing drills.

Soon Austin was entertaining the idea of signing with the academy after being asked to join.

“They sign you to a oneyear contract and if you do well they invite you back,” Broyles said.

Without having the pressure on deciding to go to England for a year, Austin also had to deal with a scholarship from Ouachita Baptist for soccer. Throughout the year he did not bring much attention to his opportunities though.

“He’s not a ra-ra in your face kind of guy,” Ward Mr. Broyles said.

Photo by Rowan Khazendar

His dad asked him every couple of days where he stood but it was not until when the down payment was due when he told his parents that he would continue playing soccer at RIASA. You could say Austin is excited about playing in the great socGraphic by Rinu Daniel

cer or “football” capital of England.

“The football atmosphere.

Soccer is like the number one thing there and it will be great to be around that,” Austin said.

“They take trips to different academies where they can train with them for a year so I’m pretty interested in that.”

Before he sets off to go, there are a few things he himself has said he needs to work on.

His speed and physicality will have to improve before he crosses the pond. Austin will play on the U-19 team to work on the aspects of his game.

RIASA has a tier system based on performance. The better a player does, the better the chance he gets moved up to the next tier. The basis for this pro-

gram is to develop the players and allow them to get the minutes they need to perform and move up.

Rakestraw has confidence that Broyles will step up the plate and perform well even though it is a whole different experience; one that he has never encountered before.

Austin is currently a mid-fielder for the Coppell Cowboys but he will have to switch to defensive midfield when he starts p l a y ing for FC RIASA. The switch will not be too bad though because he played that position all his life leading up to the high school team.

“He’s agile on the ball. He loves to get forward on the ball and create opportunities for his teammates and himself. He can be an assist man or a finisher,” Rakestraw said.

He wants the chance to play professional ball somewhere and with the ties RIASA has, his dream could just turn up into reality.

“With that type of exposure to the number of teams that they have in England, he absolutely has a chance to make a professional team. I think it is easy access for him,” Rakestraw said.

Right now though, he and his parents just want him to get as much out of the program as possible.

“I think it will bring out a whole new level of play in him,” Mr. Broyles said.

Travel by the numbers

4797MILES FROM TO TIME FROM 6 HOUR DIFFERENCE TO

500,000 MORE

PEOPLE IN Senior Austin Broyles kicks the ball backwards during one of the Cowboys district games this past season. Broyles will continue his soccer career at FC RIASA in Leeds, England.

THAN

18 senior section

MAY 2013 Graphic by Addy Buigas-Lopez

Congratulations

Photo courtesy Ragho Chamkura Photos by Rowan Khazendar, Lauren Ussery, Rachel Bush, Rinu Daniel, Jessica Rivera, Mia Ford and Susie Shahsavari

entertainment 19

MAY 2013

Sheridan balances modeling career, high school

Photo courtesy Scottie Sheridan

Junior Scottie Sheridan poses for the camera as a part of her part time modeling career. Sheridan balances school and modeling with poise.

SHIVANI BURRA Video Producer

Walking down a runway, all eyes on you, examining every detail of the brand and style of clothing you flaunt, can take its toll. But Coppell High School junior Scottie Sheridan has mastered the art of runway modeling; something the average teen does not have the privilege of saying.

Sheridan started her modeling career little over a year ago. She was discovered by Kate Wagner, a runway partner with the Campbell Warner Agency

in Dallas. Sheridan met Wagner through some friends who wanted her to go into modeling. She then decided to set up a meeting with Wagner and signed with the modeling firm.

Modeling was always a dream for Sheridan, but she never thought it would become a reality until an opportunity was presented to her. “[Modeling] is a talent people are born with. I was always a diva and loved fashion since I was born and was never camera shy,” Sheridan said. “Anyone can dress up all pretty like a model but only a few actually have the

talent and qualities necessary. I’m not saying the other people aren’t pretty or good enough, I simply believe it’s not just something you can learn.”

Style and influences are a crucial part for being successful in modeling, and Sheridan has used tastes of people around her to set her own style. She gets ideas for her style from Jan Strimple.

“I create my own style for the most part, but sometimes I take ideas from people around me and give it my own personal touch,” Sheridan said. “I take pride in the way I look when I walk down the runway.”

Sheridan believes that the models placed on stereotypes can be overcome.

“Of course there are stereotypes, just like with everything else in the world,” Sheridan said.

“But people tend to think models are dumb, which is not the case.

I know models that are in the army, lawyers, doctors, even a few engineers. They are actually very smart.”

Modeling is not something that Sheridan sees herself doing in the future, and she is only focusing on excelling in it now. After high school, Sheridan wants to pursue a career in education; her love for children and teaching has outweighed the thought of modeling in the future.

“I am not pursuing modeling after high school because it’s not a reliable career,” Sheridan said. “Eventually you will become old and not be able to get jobs anymore, and you can support yourself without a job.”

Sheridan’s parents give her a lot of support in modeling and help her to get better and receive more opportunities. Her parents are proud of the way she carries herself and maintains a professional ethic.

“I take her wherever she needs to go and wait till the end of the job. And of course I’m proud of her,” mother Kristy Sheridan said. “I have watched her mature and develop through her different modeling jobs and that is something a mother loves to see.”

Staying in shape is important for models, but it is not a problem for Sheridan because she regularly works outs, eats healthy and stays in a good mental state.

Sheridan’s favorite part of modeling is getting to see all of her friends from the agency because she would have missed out on some great friendships otherwise.

“One of the parts of modeling I love is getting to meet new

and we even had a Chinese girl that asked us if she could make a lyric video from ‘Your World’,” Kim said.

They write songs separately and then come together to compare notes and decide if they want to record a song or not.

They plan on releasing an EP or

formance this past month was to help promote Korean culture; they sang a song called Becoming Dust. It was the first time The Blanders officially performed live. The pair had sung in front of people before, such as at last year’s graduation, but not as a band.

For now both members are working and have not had a lot of time to follow a musical career.

They are us-

people,” Sheridan said. “I have made friendships through modeling that are really strong and I would not have been able to meet those amazing people if I had not done modeling. I know these relationships are going to go past my modeling career.”

Modeling is a more than a pastime for Sheridan. Her love for it pushes her to get better and better and not give up when things get difficult.

“Modeling isn’t really immoral unless you start getting a big head about it. I’m just humbled to be able to have these opportunities in the first place and remember that I and the other girls at my agency are all equals,” Sheridan said. “And you never know for sure if your going get the job every time you audition so I always try to pray before I go on and keep In mind that I have just as much a chance of getting the job as I have not getting it.”

What is your favorite thing to do in your spare time?

“Watch TV and hang with friends”

Who was your childhood idol?

“Selena Gomez, she is a Christian role model and extremely talented” Where would go for your dream vacation?

“Figi, I love the beach”

Kim, Van Hoose prove music has no boundaries CORRINA TAYLOR

Director of Social Media On a normal day after Madrigals practice, two students stand waiting for their rides home. They begin talking to each other, and the ice is broken.

Coppell High School 2012 graduates Hanuy Kim and Christian Van Hoose met during their junior year while they were in the Madrigals choir. It is here that their friendship formed and they begin to sing together.

“They were two peas in a pod - they were inseparable,” associate choir director Will McLean said. “They were silly and unfocused and did not realize their potential, but their personalities add to their own sound in a funny little way. It fits.”

In class they would sing with each other on a regular basis but did not pursue a band during their high school career. During lunch and free time they would sit in the choir hall and mess around on the piano and sing covers.

Unlike other musicians, both Kim and Van Hoose have a talent for hearing tones, which makes it easier for them to sing cover songs. Soon life got in the way and they did not see each other as much during their senior year. When they graduated Kim went to the University of, North Texas and Van Hoose ventured to Brigham Young University--Idaho.

Though they talked occasionally on the phone, due to the distance between them they were

unable to sing like they used to.

That was until they were reunited in Coppell after taking time off of school.

“We have always been singing duets with each other, so we thought we might as well make YouTube videos,” Van Hoose said. “There is a 50 minute video where we come up with names for our band.”

The official creation of The Blanders was on Dec. 1.

Since t h e for-

Photo by Rowan Khandezar

Seniors Hanuy Kim and Christian Van Hoose sang at the 2012 Coppell High School graduation.

mation of the band, the boys have performed covers of various songs on their YouTube channel, CoppellBounds. They even composed an original song, “Your World”, sung in Korean and written by Kim for his girlfriend.

“The video got a lot of views

CD soon.

The Blanders sang at the Korean Culture Exchange, an organization at the University of North Texas that promotes culture exchanges between American and Koreign foreign exchange students. Their per-

ing their time to manage the business world of having a job along with their love for music and their band.

“They have the talent [to make it big], so it will be interesting to see if they do more original stuff and market them-

selves,” McLean said “If they have the right people hear them at the right time and do more unique things they will be good.”

The band is gaining popularity from its group of friends and students in Coppell. Students still enrolled at Coppell frequently listen to their songs, including senior Maggie Boreham.

“They are really awesome as people and the fact that they are in a band makes it even better,” Boreham said. “I am really proud of them and think they could be really successful so people should go listen to their YouTube channel and see for themselves.”

Though they do not frequently promote their social media they still have followers who are always interested in knowing when a new song is posted and if the band will be playing.

“My girlfriend told us our social media promoting skills sucked, if we did get really serious about The Blanders and want to get famous we will post more and be better at social media,” Kim said.

With the correct promotion and more original songs, the band has the potential to increase their popularity and go further. For The Blanders it is just a matter of putting themselves out there and using their originality to obtain the attention of viewers everywhere.

“We want to have a lifestyle where we make a living off of making music. We don’t have to live above everyone else and be famous,” Van Hoose said.

20 entertainment

MAY 2013

Teachers share, savor special family recipes TINA HUANG Staff Writer

Few things bring people together like good food. In many families, certain meals become traditions and the recipes are passed down over time.

Multiple teachers at Coppell High School reacted with excitement and nostalgia when asked about any special family recipes they would be willing to share.

Right off the bat, they recalled cherished memories of where and when the recipe they specifically thought of came about.

Food has a unique way of connecting us to memories and people we care

“Laura’s Kentucky Pie” AP statistics teacher Michele Zugaro’s family has a tradition of naming their recipes after person and place they obtained the recipe from. One of the Zugaros’ favorite recipes - Laura’s Kentucky Pie - is named after their old neighbor from Kentucky.

Zugaro does not remember exactly how her family got ahold of the recipe, but she believes her kids really liked the pie and probably asked their neighbor for the recipe.

The “pie” is not exactly a pie in the traditional sense, and is similar to the famous “pizookie” at B.J.’s.

“The pie is delicious. It basically is just a big chocolate chip cookie. It is also really simple to make,” Zugaro said. “It would make for a great, quick desert after dinner.”

Tip: Enjoy when the pie is still warm.

Ingredients: ½ cup margarine, melted 2 eggs, slightly beaten ¾ cup white sugar ¾ cup chocolate chips ¼ cup brown sugar ½ cup flour 1 tsp. vanilla ¾ cup pecans Mix in order given. Pour into unbaked 9 inch pie shell.

Bake 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Serve with dollop of whipped Michele Zugaro cream.

AP Statistics Teacher

“Zucchini Bread” In AP environmental science teacher Holly Anderson’s family, zucchinis and apples might as well be the same thing.

For this zucchini bread recipe, when Anderson’s grandma first made the bread, she told Anderson’s uncle that it was apple bread. He ate some and believed it.

If you have doubts about making bread with a vegetable like zucchini, there

about, or even connecting us to our heritage. The tradition of preparing a family recipe can be an enriching and rewarding experience. For example, AP environmental science teacher Holly Anderson instinctively thought of her grandmother’s zucchini bread.

After being enjoyed by generations of friends and family for many years, it is obvious all of these recipes are ones that have withstood the test of time. While bored or hungry over the summer, surprise your family by preparing these recipes that our teachers have been enjoying for years.

Whether you are in the mood for pastries, desserts, sides or a salad, there is sure to be a recipe you will enjoy on this page. is evidence that the bread is delicious. Put aside your distate for veggies and give this scrumptios yet nutritious bread an honest try. Like Anderson’s uncle, you won’t be able to tell the difference.

“I introduced the recipe to a bakery I worked at in college, and they began selling it there,” said Anderson. “That is how good it is.”

Ingredients: 1 cup oil 3 eggs 2 cups of sugar 2 cups grated zucchini 3 cups flour 3 tsp. cinnamon 2 tsp. vanilla ½ baking powder 1 tsp. salt 1 cup pecans Directions: Mix eggs and sugar together. Add oil and grated zucchini.

Combine dry ingredients, add to above mixture. Add vanilla and nuts. Flour and grease pan.

Bake at 325 for one Holly Anderson hour.

AP Environmental Science Teacher

Ingredients: 2 tbsp. olive oil (can use up to 1/4 cup) 1 small onion, chopped fine 2 cups of white rice 3 cups* boiling chicken stock or water If using water, add 2-3 tbsp. Knorr Caldo de Tomate con Pollo (Chicken bouillon found in the Mexican food aisle), and 1tsp. tomato paste If using chicken stock, add 1 tbsp. tomato paste 1 tsp. salt 1. In a large skillet, brown rice in olive oil, medium/high heat. Add onion. Cook onion rice mixture, stirring frequently for about four minutes, or until onions are softened.

2. In a separate sauce pan, bring stock or water to a simmer. (Do not add cold chicken stock or water. This causes rice to become sticky). Add tomato sauce, and salt (and Knorr bouillon if using water). Add rice to broth. Lower heat and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook 15-25 minutes, depending on the type of rice and the instructions on the rice package.

Turn off heat and let sit for five minutes. Rice will be fluffy and serve four to six. *Check the instructions on the rice package for the proportions of liquid to rice.

Irma Kennedy KCBY Director

“Mom’s Spanish Rice” “Spanish rice is the staple to any good Mexican meal,” KCBY director Irma Kennedy said. “I have struggled with cooking [rice] my entire life. My mother started teaching me how to cook when I was in fifth grade.”

Kennedy wondered what she was doing wrong when she made her mom’s Spanish rice. She finally found out last summer when she was with her cousin.

Tip: Boil the water. If the water is not hot, the rice will be pasty and sticky.

Here is the Kennedy family’s rice recipe. Prep time should be five minutes and cook time should be 25 minutes.

“French Bread” AP art history teacher Monica Winters has been making her famous French bread for 35 years. She makes bread so often that she can taste a difference in store bought bread.

“Store bought bread tastes like cardboard,” Winters said. “I make all of my bread. I make French bread about three times a year. I make [sourdough] about once a month, and I make [whole wheat] once a week.”

She emphasizes that French bread is the classic out of all the breads she makes.

“Whenever I get together with family, I have to make it,” Winters said. “Everybody likes it. Everybody eats it. It’s been a tradition ever since I started making it.”

She first made the recipe from a cookbook she received as a wedding present. Since then, she has tried variations, but keeping the original has been the best in her opinion.

Tip: Spray the bread with water every seven minutes when it is in the oven.

It makes the crust chewy rather than hard.

Ingredients: 5 ½ to 6 ½ cups unsifted bread flour 2 packages active dry yeast (2 tbsp.)

1 tbsp. sugar 1 tbsp. salt In bowl of standing mixer using paddle blade, combine two cups flour with yeast, sugar and salt. Blend in warm water and beat for two minutes. Stir in remaining 3 ½ to 4 ½ cups flour, one cup at a time, and switch to dough hook. Dough should be stiff, but not dry. Knead dough hook about five minutes more, adding a tablespoon of flour occasionally if dough seems too soft.

Coat the sides of a large mixing bowl with two tablespoons of vegetable oil. Transfer bread dough from the mixer bowl, turning to coat dough completely with oil. Cover with plastic wrap and allow dough to rise until doubled in size, about 1 .5 hours.

Punch down dough and divide in half. Cover with a bowl and allow to rest for 10 minutes. Press out each half on floured surface to make a rectangle, pinching edges to seal dough. Repeat with other half. Allow other dough to rise until doubled in size, about 45 minutes. Care- fully slash top with sharp knife.

Brush loaves with water and place in a preheated 400 degree oven. Spritz loaves with water every five minutes or so. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until golden Monica Winters brown.

AP Art History Teacher

All it takes is a few simple ingredients, a sweet tooth and half an hour of your time to make Mrs. Zugaro’s trademark “Laura’s Kentucky Pie”, shown above. Photos by Lauren Ussery.

sports 21

MAY 2013

Junior awarded top honors in state championship continued from pg. 1

went in.

Called El Gingero or Flame by his teammates because of his ginger locks, Madden’s journey with soccer began at the age 6. Like many other kids, he participated in other sports such as baseball. Up until middle school, he played both. However, Madden chose soccer as his prime sport after his club coach suggested that if he and his teammates wanted to excel at a sport, they would have to choose one.

His decision to chose soccer was simple because it was his best sport.

“My first club coach told us we had to specialize in one sport if we wanted to get really good,” Madden said. “Middle school I really started knowing that was my favorite sport, and that was my best sport. I had the most fun because I did the best at it.”

During his freshman year, Madden was the top scorer and played midfield and right forward. For varsity tryouts, Coppell coach Chad Rakestraw kept him in the position. This year, he is also the top scorer. However, when in club, he plays a different side of the field, right back.

Besides the area of the field as a difference, Madden had to adjust mentally.

Playing on offense allows him to cut lose, in a way.

“I have been playing defense for club for so long, so it’s really a mental thing,” Madden said. “In high school I am a little freer on the field, and on defense, I am more conservative.”

If he were to make a mistake on defense, it could Graphic by Rinu Daniel

cost the team a goal. However, when on offense, taking chances can lead to goals.

Ever since last year’s upsetting defeat in the first round of playoffs to Hebron, the entire team has been preparing in every way, mentally and physically. The intense and grueling cross-fit conditioning tests the team mentally and has helped shape their maturity and composure in the game. “[Cross-fit] is physical, but Rakestraw really imposes that we build a lot of mental strength for when it is late in the game and when we are tired,” Madden said. “Cross-fit really helps with that.”

The mental toughness helped the Cowboys stay composed when they were down 2-1 in the second half. It also helped deal with distractions such as the clock not being stopped properly and allowed them to push through.

As he scored the tying goal, there was a sense of relief for the entire team.

However, when it comes to being MVP, Madden was just happy to win the state championship.

“I just kept thinking how happy I was that I could send these seniors out on such a good note,” Madden said. “They really are family, so to be able to do it with them was awesome.”

Madden has grown closer and has learned from captain Nick Hazelrigg, among others. As he is trying to become a better leader, grow as a player and continue the legacy, Madden claims Hazelrigg has inspired him along the way.

“Hazelrigg is so unselfish and such a hard worker and when you see that, you think ‘I need to step up to that level’,” Madden said.

Likewise, Hazelrigg also thought highly of Madden.

“He is an excellent leader on the field,” Hazelrigg said. “[Madden] is typi-

Photo couresty Davis Deloach

Junior Chris Madden (19) scored two goals for a total of four points during the Coppell Cowboys’ state match against Brownsville Hanna. Madden led the Cowboys with 14 goals this season.

cally quiet on the field and lets his playing do the talking which is excellent because it allows him to lead by example.”

In the past years on varsity, Madden has improved greatly and has been a role model to younger guys.

“He has gained a lot of confidence this year, and that has enabled him to succeed and be a role model for both younger and older players,” Hazelrigg said. “[Madden] is only a junior, but he is one of the few underclassmen on the team I looked up to this year.”

As his roommate during the state tournament, senior captain and forward Drake Lovelady was also able to get to know Madden. Both Hazelrigg and Lovelady agree Madden stands out and leads on the field. Out of all the things Lovela-

dy and the rest of the seniors are trying to teach the upcoming seniors and Madden, it is to cherish the time he has left wearing the Coppell jersey.

“This entire year, I have tried to teach him to appreciate the games left because it really is going to end soon,” Lovelady said.

Besides continuing the legacy of excellence, Madden is also striving to create a family-like and comfortable environment for the younger players just like the one he was given. In the game he has given so much to, the game has also helped him in everything else.

“I gained the drive to do well and I know what it takes to get where I want to be, and the work ethic I have to put in to have to succeed,” Madden said. “It has helped me in all areas of my life.

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22 sports

MAY 2013

Hruby brothers to join arms at Air Force Academy sophomore year.

“Ever since Nate went there, Sports Writer I had been in touch with the coach,” Nick said. “He has been When Air Force Academy to some of my summer camps the sophomore midfielder and 2011 summer going into sophomore Coppell High School graduate year and then summer going into Nate Hruby found out his broth- junior year during my lacrosse er, junior attackman Nick Hruby, trips. I have talked to him and he would be joining him in Colorado has seen me play, so it has always Springs, Colo. to play lacrosse, he been an option and something I was ecstatic. have been thinking about.”

“It is just a huge deal no Last fall, Nick cut his list matter where [Nick] chose to go,” of school choices down to four: Nate said. “I told him and that I High Point (N.C.) University, am going Dartmouth Unito be really “[Air Force Academy head versity, the U.S. excited to Naval Academy be able to lacrosse coach Eric Seremet] and Air Force. just asked me what I was spend one “He was more year thinking because I had visited talking to me with him.” up there earlier in the year about all the Nick that he and if I was ready to make a places a n was getting n o u n c e d commitment, and I said yes.” looks from and his comhow he was -Nick Hruby, junior mitment ranking those to the Falplaces,” Nate said. “From his excons in late March. He joins se- pressions, I just thought that Air nior third baseman Tyler Jones, Force was higher on the top of the senior infielder Tyler Zabojnik list than I thought it would be.” and senior tight end Josh Self on Though Nick kept his family the list of Air Force commits this involved in the recruiting process, year from CHS, though he will his parents and Nate stuck to a not arrive in Colorado Springs hands-off approach. until fall 2014.

“I have pretty much tried to Because she had already stay out of it actually,” Nate said. been through the recruiting “I just wanted him to be able to process once before with Nate, make his own decision.”

Kristan Hruby, Nick’s mother, was Still in constant contact with determined to let her son make Falcons head coach Eric Seremet, his own decision.

Nick began his regular season “I felt like that it was a de- with the Coppell Cowboys lacision that he wanted to make,” crosse team this spring.

Mrs. Hruby said. “We were trying Then the phone call came not to push Nick because it is such during the final week of March. a big responsibility and a big un- Nick was sitting in Coppell’s new dertaking, and he saw how emo- Smashburger restaurant with tionally challenging and mentally some of his friends when Seremet challenging it was for Nate.” called him.

Nick had been pondering “I went out in the parking lot the decision since the coaching and talked to him,” Nick said. “He staff first noticed him at a skills just asked me what I was thinking camp over the summer before his because I had visited up there ear-

JOHN LOOP

lier in the year, and if I was ready Photo courtesy Logan Hawk to make a commitment, and I said yes.”

Nick was so relieved that he had forgotten to tell his parents and Nate.

“At first I thought, I cannot believe he did not tell me,” Mrs. Hruby said. “It was so great that he was with his friends because one of the reasons that he is the person he is today is because of the choices he has made in his friendships.”

Getting into a service academy is not a first, or even a second, for the Hruby family. Nick’s father, Dale, is a graduate of West Point. Mrs. Hruby’s father was a two-star general in the Army, and Dale Hruby’s father was a colonel in the Army. Nick’s great-great grandfather is a graduate of West Point and also one of the first men ashore on D-Day. “You would think that they grew up with us saying ‘you have CHS junior attackman Nick Hruby takes on a defender from The Woodto go to an academy, you have to lands School in the Cowboys’ 7-5 March 2 match. Hruby committed to go to an academy’,” Mrs. Hruby the Air Force Academy for lacrosse in March. said. “And all their lives, we re- makes no difference. West Point he can be reunited, in a Falcon ally never even talked about it or never even looked at one of my blue uniform, with Nate in Colopushed it. When I was growing boys for lacrosse, which was kind rado Springs, but making this up, my parents were gung-ho ‘let’s of discouraging.” decision this early will make his go to the academy, let’s visit the Nate knows being with his senior year much less hectic. academy’.” brother is going to make for a spe“This summer is going to be And just because the Hrubys cial senior season for him. pretty stressful going into senior have a long military legacy did “It makes it really special,” year,” Nick said. “A lot of schools not mean Nate said. “The last only have two or three spots left automat“It makes it really special. time we were both on their roster, so I would have ic admisThe last time we were on on the same team had to go to four or five different sion into the same team was when was when he was a camps, and now I can just relax a service freshman and I was and know that decision has ala c a d he was a freshman and I a senior at Coppell. I ready been made.” emy in was a senior at Coppell.” don’t think his skills As for his goals, Nick althe first had developed to the ready has some in mind.

-Nate Hruby, 2011 Coppell level that they have place.

“I want to play,” Nick said.

“It High School graduate now. Besides him “I have heard all of the stories and is funny having the chance everything and think it is somebecause to play with me, it is going to be thing that I would be able to do. I a lot of people think that Nick great to have your brother going would have fun with that kind of and Nate have a special in,” Mrs. to the same school as you for one lifestyle.”

Hruby said. “You know when you more year.” go to other schools and people Nick will have to wait before say ‘Oh, you are a legacy’, but that

sports 23

MAY 2013

New UIL rules limit amount of full contact practices ALEX NICOLL Sports Writer

As concussions in sports become more prevalent among amateurs, the Universal Interscholastic League (UIL) is taking more cautionary measures to ensure the safety of players. The newest precaution comes at the expense of old-fashion contact drills.

Gone could the days be of athletes crashing into another in the Oklahoma drill, a football tradition, or other full contact drills.

The new UIL Medical Advisory Committee recommendation to limit game-speed full contact practices to 90 minutes per player per week would replace the current rule of allowing full contact at all times during the maximum eight hours of practice per team can have during a week.

The committee met April 15 in Austin, Texas to discuss issues that included steroid testing updates, concussion information and updates, practice regulation and guideline updates, cardiac screening updates, injury updates and the National Federation Sports Medicine Committee update.

Although this rule seems beneficial, in reality it does not affect the schedules and game plans of a majority of coaches in Texas.

“Any program worth its salt does not [conduct game-speed full contact drills],” Coppell football coach Joe McBride said.

McBride also said that this

new rule will affect his team in no way at all.

“It will not affect us at all,” McBride said. “We do not live game tackle.”

McBride, like many coaches, feels that this new proposed law is for coaches who are a little ignorant in the game of football.

“This rule is for the coaches who do not know what they are doing,” McBride said. “It is a rule for the unknowledgeable.”

The rule is not into effect yet as it still has to be passed by the UIL Legislative Council in June and then be signed by the commissioner of education. The rule is said to stem from House Bill 887 that was filed by State Representative Eddie Lucio III (D-Brownsville). The bill would limit full-contact practices to once per week.

“Game speed” as defined by the UIL, would are practices that involve tackling or blocking to the ground. The new rule is in response to the rash of attention that concussions have stirred up for better care and protection.

High school football has the highest number of concussions out of any sport and has the highest concussion rate with 6.4 concussions per 10,000 exposures.

Already an obvious problem, a reported 67,000 diagnosed concussions have occurred each year, according to an article from momsteam.com.

The proposal is similar to the pattern of the Ivy League conference, which just recently made drastic changes to the NCAA rule

of allowing five full contact practices a week and limiting it to only two during the season, according to The New York Times. In the preseason there can only be one contact practice in two-a-days and in the spring the number of live contact practices move from three to four.

Surprisingly, a handful of players actually welcome full contact practice.

“It puts the players in gamelike situations to get them ready for those Friday nights,” sophomore safety Michael Nehme said.

Some coaches reason that the rule is a response to the new image of football athletes.

“Athletes are bigger, stronger and faster because there is more emphasis on weight training and conditioning programs,”

Southlake Carroll football coach Hal Wasson said.

While athleticism is important, most coaches still focus on proper technique, which is a factor as to why this new recommendation will not affect them.

“It’s about educating yourself and your players,” Wasson said. “We seldom take anyone to the ground.

There is no one who wants the players safe more than the coach.”

Technique is everything to these coaches. McBride says his practices when doing game-like situations are 70 percent effort while Wasson said the Dragons coaching staff tries to make the players stay up-right in contact drills. One thing neither coach does is force their players into the match without the right training.

“I compare it to snow-skiing,” Wasson said. “You do not start out on the black diamond slopes; you start in a ski school or the bunny slopes, or if you’re in my case you just roll down the hill.”

Gone now are the days of seeing defensive backs lay-out receivers caught in traffic or linebackers sacking quarterbacks with enough force to break down brick walls.

Safety is the more important issue and could be a determining factor for future players to either play or not.

“There are going to be risks but the rewards outweigh the risks,” Wasson said. “What you learn in football stays with you forever.”

New UIL Regulations

Coaches cannot schedule two-a-day practices on consectutive days Two hours must be given between two practices on the same day Only 90 minutes of game-speed, full contact practice per player per week

Hear from the coaches

“Any program worth its salt does not [conduct game-speed full contact drills].”

-Joe McBride, Coppell head football coach “It’s about educating yourself and your players. We seldom take anyone to the ground. There is no one who wants the players safe more than the coach.”

-Hal Wasson, Southlake Carroll head football coach

Ernst maintains balance on top of gymnastics world ALLISON ARNOLD

Photo courtesy USA Gymnastics

Sports Writer

Coppell High School, people walk amongst extremely talented kids every day. However, it is not every day that someone crosses paths with a potential future Olympian.

Sophomore Peyton Ernst has done gymnastics practically all her life. Starting out at age two, she loved every minute of being on the mats and tumbling around. As the years went on, she found herself dreaming of Olympic gold and has worked long hours to achieve it ever since.

“I work out six days a week; a total of 36 hours,” Ernst said.

“Once a month I go to a national training camp, and that is where a group of judges decide what meets we qualify to participate in.

Throughout the years, how well Sophomore gymnast Peyton Ernst competes on the balance beam at the 2012 Secret United States Classic in we do in these meets will decide Chicago. Ermst competed internationally earlier this year and already committed to the University of Florida. whether or not we will be on the national Olympic team.” there, so I was very honored to she no longer has to worry about the VISA Championships a few Ernst has won medals in have done so well.” after committing to the Univer- years back,” Fromine said. “She a variety events dating back to The Texas Dreams facility, sity of Florida. did much better than everyone when she was three. However, as is practically a second home to “Florida is a great gym- thought she would. Around here, the gymnasts get older, the num- Ernst as well as the 19 other girls nastics school,” Ernst said. “It is the coaches look for someone ber of medals that train with ranked fourth in the nation. It’s an with a lot of talent and will to given are not as her. honor to compete there because work. She’s really proved herself “Eight of the 20 girls at abundant, mak“Eight of they have a great gymnastics pro- and has shown that she is capable Texas Dreams are on the 20 girls at ing it a great acgram. I’m just glad to know that of a lot.” complishment for the same level of com- Texas Dreams I have something planned out for As for Ernst’s family, they Ernst when she college.” are all extremely proud of her as petition as me. All of are on the same recently placed Through training at Texas well as the talented gymnast she’s our goals include going level of compein the top three tition as me,” Dreams, Ernst has grown close become. to the Olympics.” in the all around Earnst said. “All with her coaches as well the team “I competed in gymnastics - Peyton Ernst, and received first of our goals incoordinator, Mariah Fromine. for about 16 years,” sister Bailey in both vault and sophomore clude going to Over the course of two years, Ernst said. “[Peyton] is one of the floor. the Olympics.”

Fromine has seen incredible im- hardest working gymnasts I have “In Tokyo, I placed second Although pursuing the provement in Ernst as well as a lot ever seen. She is great at what in all around which was huge,” Olympic dream is very stressof talent and potential. she does and it’s obvious that she Ernst said. “There were a lot of ful as well as physically de“Peyton was a surprise to loves it which is really all that great gymnasts competing over manding, college is something everyone when she competed in matters.”

ERNST’S RESULTS

2nd

in the all-around at Tokyo World Cup

2nd

in all-around at Romania/ Germany Tri-Meet

4th

as a team in Italy’s City of Jesolo Trophy Meet

Top 10

In Three Events at the VISA Championships in St. Louis Committed to the University of Florida

24 the sidekick

MAY 2013