Viking Volume 2 Issue 3 - Making the Cut by The Viking Magazine

Need antiques??? We’ve got ‘em!

RIEKES CENTER Human Enhancement

Volume 2 Issue #3 January 2009 Staff List Editors-in-Chief Charlie Avis Peter Johnson Noah Sneider Adam Zernik

Business Managers Greg Stewart Matthew Tracy Distribution Manager Liza Dernehl

Section Editors Oliver Davies Cassie Prioleau Ahna Rao Elizabeth Scott Photo Manager John Christopherson Photo Staff Charlie Avis Malaika Drebin Hana Kajimura Allison Shorin Spencer Sims Design Editors Varun Kohli Noah Sneider

Staff Sana Bakshi Sophie Biffar Hanna Brody Ben Brown Chase Cooper Liza Dernehl Malaika Drebin Emily Fowler Lauren Hammerson Wade Hauser Hana Kajimura Ashkaan Khatakhotan Brendon Rider Marco Scola Allison Shorin Spencer Sims Kylie Sloan Scott Witte

Copy Editor Christine Chang

Adviser Ellen Austin Viking Palo Alto High School 50 Embarcadero Road Palo Alto, CA 94301 650-329-3837 Email contact: theviking08@gmail.com Letters to the editor The Viking, a sports magazine published by the students in Palo Alto High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Advanced Magazine Journalism class, is an open forum for student expression and the discussion of issues of concern to its readership. The Viking is distributed to its readers and the student body at no cost. The staff welcomes letters to the editor but reserves the right to edit all submissions for length, grammar, potential libel, invasion of privacy and obscenity. Advertising in The Viking The staff publishes advertisements with signed contracts providing they are not deemed by the staff inappropriate for the magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s audience. For more information about advertising with The Viking, please contact the The Viking by e-mail at theviking08@gmail.com or call 650-329-3837 for more information. Printing services The Viking is printed six times a year by Fricke-Parks Press in Fremont, Calif.

The L

January

PEOPLE

Volume II, I

24 | NEW KIDS ON THE bLOCK

15 | INSIDE THE MIND OF LAKIA YOUNG 32 | STANFORD SOCCER FINAL

16 | STORY OF MY...

33 | FACES IN THE NCAA

photo credits (clockwise from top left): spencer sims, hana kajimura. john christopherson, hana kajimura, john christopherson cover by malaika drebin

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OFF CAMPUS 17 | GOT GAME? The Viking explores the unseen world of hunting at Paly by Cassie Prioleau

20 | SKATER bOY One Paly student excels in a Winter Sport not often found in Palo Alto by Kylie Sloan

26 | YOUNG WARRIOR An in-depth look inside the life of a Muay Thai fighter by Varun Kohli

29 | bRINGING IT TO THE TAbLE Exclusive coverage of Paly’s very own Ping Pong tournament by Cassie Prioleau and Varun Kohli

Lineup

SINCE WE LAST SAW YOU

ary 2008 II, Issue III

40 | CCS RESULTS A report on Paly’s match-up against Los Gatos in the CCS Championship game on December 6th

THE LAST WORD

41 | WINTER SPORTS ROUNDUP The Viking reports on the Winter sports season

62 | SECOND THOUGHTS Oliver Davies graces the last page with a story of guts and glory

by Oliver Davies

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62 | 64

FEATURES

PROFILES

34 | THE MANE THING An equestrian revolution is sweeping across Paly as many have taken up this difficult sport

44 | RACHEL ERSTED Paly’s own Rachel Ersted takes to the water as one of the most sought after coxswains in the country

by Hanna Brody

by Sana Bakshi and Allison Shorin

38 | SPORTS RULES The Viking gets you ready for the upcoming season with some of the unwritten rules in sports

47 | NICK RObINSON Point Guard Nick Robinson has been working on his game for many years, hoping to lead the Vikings to victory

by Marco Scola

An in-depth report on weight-cutting in wrestling and its dangerous consequences by Malaika Drebin

COVER STORY

52 | MAKING THE CUT

by Chase Cooper

50 | COACH DIEPENbROCK The Viking sits down with Paly’s former coach to talk about his new basketball team at Cañada College by Emily Fowler

Opinion

Staff View

A formal challenge...

Dear Mr. sweet-talking, calm and collected, ridiculously good-looking, American hero, President Barack Obama, First and foremost, we, the staff of The Viking, would like to congratulate you on your monumental victory in the 2008 Presidential Election; we know it was no easy feat. We look forward to years of seeing your face on the TV and hearing your voice on the radio, highlights of just about anybody’s day. Throughout your campaign, the American public has been barraged with countless stories of your athletic prowess, in particular, your basketball skills. Each time you elected a new appointment to your cabinet, journalists across the country simply added another member to the “Barack Obama All-Star Basketball Squad”. While we on The Viking know we are no match as politicians, we feel we might just give you and your cabinet a run for its money in an old-fashioned game of basketball. In the spirit of amicable relations, and in light of your effort to promote bipartisan politics, we will even let you have the superstar herself, Sarah Palin, granted she is not in your cabinet. But of course, Senator McCain is ours. Don’t worry, we won’t have him guard you; he will be playing with a chip on his shoulder. We have taken the liberty and set the starting lineups for the featured showdown between The Viking’s editors and your cabinet, Hillary included. Not only has the roster been selected, but our game plan is set. After extensive video analysis we have pegged you as a power forward hybrid, you can hold your own against seven-footers but have the skills to make your presence known late in the game. We envision Secretary of State Hillary Clinton running the point; with her experience she will be vital in any successful attempt to beat The Viking. Although we must warn you, like an overaggressive father in a Little League game, President Clinton will be a liability with his sideline advice; it might just get in Hillary’s head. But, we digress. Senator Obama, even you admit your own faults, as you once said, “I know I am not a perfect man. My wife reminds me daily.” Well Mr. Commander-in-Chief, meet your matchup, somebody we like to call Editor-in-Chief: Charlie Avis. As if being Editor-inChief of The Viking is not enough, Charlie is also a junior national team cyclist, and an exceptional student to boot. Expect some lockdown defense from Charlie, which rest assured will bring you more gray hairs than fixing this troubled economy. As for the other matchups, we hate to say it, but there is really no hope for your cabinet. In truth, we simply do not know how your newly appointed staff will be able to defend the rest of our starting lineup. Editor-in-Chief Noah Sneider brings his critically acclaimed “Sneider Hook,” and fellow editor Peter Johnson can dunk, enough said. Let’s hope Secretary of Defense Robert Gates has a plan for your squad. Finally, with her heightened vertical from playing volleyball, Managing Editor Cassie Prioleau will look to snag every rebound that comes her direction, not even six-foot Joe Biden will be able to grab boards over her. Now, we at The Viking are not ones to trash talk, but when a victory seems so sure, it is difficult not to indulge. Sorry Obama, the odds don’t look so good. So here is our official offer. 5-on-5, The Viking vs. The Cabinet, play to 11. Time, date, location, it’s all in your hands, Mr. Obama; simply contact us at vikingeds08@gmail.com, and we will be there. Game on.

Sincerely, Viking Staff

Viking Tries... a e k i gl

in n i a Tr

man By Liza Dernehl

“This is SPARTA!”

This signature line is uttered by King Leonidas in the 2007 film, 300. While the movie received raving reviews for its cinematography and quality, let’s face it…who was really paying attention to the storyline? It is a hard to focus on Leonidas’ internal battle with right and wrong while he and 299 other warriors are prancing around in loincloths, donning their signature eight-packs. This leads us to the reoccurring question… are those abs real? The answer: they certainly are. The Viking decided to look into exactly how they crafted their bodies to resemble those of Greek Gods’. The answer: training through a program adapted from CrossFit, a type of exercise that randomizes functional movements at a high level of intensity. The focus is on strength training at a low intensity for extended periods of time. At MadDawg Fitness in Redwood City, trainer Saul

Jimenez uses these methods to train people of all ages. He combines interval training with a limited amount of cardio, and pays close attention to each participant’s limits. “It is essentially personal training in a class,” Jimenez said. Classes typically have around 10-15 people in them. Jimenez says that the best way for high school students to get fit is through the Crossfit program. “Proper strength training with correct form is much safer and more effective at getting you fit,” Jimenez said. each participant’s limits. “It is essentially personal training in a class,” Jimenez said. Classes typically have around 10-15 people in them. Jimenez says that the best way for high school students to get fit is through the Crossfit program. “Proper strength training with correct form is much safer and more effective at getting you fit,” Jimenez said.

interested in looking like a Spartan? Here are some steps to get you there: 1. Forget the machines at the gym; use free weights. Must-haves include: Dumbbells (weight should be about 10% of your body weight), a chair to do dips and a large box (about 24” high) to step-up on. 2. Focus on doing interval sets. For example: 5 x push-ups 10 x sit-ups 15 x squats (three times through) 3. Make sure you’re doing the exercises correctly. Jimenez noted that many people expect to see results when they’re doing simple exercises like crunches incorrectly. 4. Cross train. Spartans do not limit themselves to throwing spears everyday. They alternate between spear throwing, pushups and pull-ups, which helps to reach the maximum amount of muscles.

ZOOM

Junior John anderton goes up for a header in the first half of a Homestead Cup game versus Lincoln High School. the Vikings won the game 3-0 despite junior Spencer Simsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; red card in the second half. Photo by Malaika Drebin

ZOOM

Sophomore Davante adams attacks the hoop in Palyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s game against Mountain View, a team from Utah. the Vikings ended up losing the game by a margin of 49-63. the boys varsity team held record of 9 wins and 5 losses as of January 12th. Photo by Malaika Drebin

T A H W Y SA “I’m going to win, definitely. I only have like one fan but that’s all right. I wouldn’t say I’m the underdog because people still know I’m going to win, even though they don’t want me to. I just like being the one that everyone is rooting against.” —Drew Pearson (Ping Pong Star, Jr.)

“I am a runner, but by no stretch of the imagination do I consider myself elite. I haven’t been blessed with a body like Usain Bolt or Steve Prefontaine, but I’ve ran cross-country for the last four years, and have made do with my God-given talent (or lack thereof.)” —Oliver Davies (Cross Country, Sr.) “When he got to the hospital, the doctors said he had the bones of an 80 year old woman.” —Carolyn Wester (Wrestling Nutrition Specialist) Making The Cut pg. 18

18 Number of years since

“That was the time when it became clear to my parents that I wasn’t just some little girl asking for pony rides. I actually wanted to ride.” —McKinley Siegfried

Bringing It To The Table pg. 31

Last Word pg. 62

by the Numbers

(Equestrian, Sr.) The Mane Thing pg. 35

“I don’t think boys should be afraid to try skating. Just because there are some graceful, girly aspects of it doesn’t mean it’s not just as difficult as football.” —Chiara Leifer (Ice Skating, Jr.) Skater Boy pg. 23

The Pop Culture Grid

Paly Athlete and Sport

Favorite Movie

I’d like to meet...

Top Played on iTunes

Football of Futbol?

If I Were an Animal...

Kirsten Atkinson, basketball,Sr.

Cars

Wall E

Taylor Swift

Football

Panther

James Franco

T-Swift

Futbol, of course

Unicorn

Sophie Cain, Soccer, Jr.

Pochahontas

Gabe Landa, Wrestling, Fr.

The Longest Yard

Jesus

50 Cent

Football

English Bulldog

Scott Alexander, Soccer, Jr.

The Movie of All Eshans

Rick Ross

Speedin’

Futbol

Mongoose

Max Schmarzo, basketball, So.

A Christmas Story

Just Do It

Eminem

Football

Sloth

the Paly cross country team qualified for the state meet

7 Goals let in by Paly boys’

varsity soccer team as opposed to the 37 goals they have scored

12 Number of egg whites John Hall eats for breakfast

9 Pounds dropped by senior wrestler Patrick Sheehan the night before a tournament weigh-in

Ping-pong tournament competitors, hosted by juniors Drew Pearson and Peter Wilson

1 Number of games the

Stanford Women’s soccer team lost before the Final Four

6 Days a week horseback

riders spend at the barn taking care of or riding their horses

27 Points scored by Paly alum Jeremy Lin in an upset against Boston College. In its previous game, Boston College defeated number one ranked University of North Carolina.

7 Things you need To know abouT: wearing a singleT

As told by freshman wrestler Joey Christopherson Photo by Malaika Drebin 1) It’s similar to a Speedo or a leotard, kind of a mix between the two. 2) They are surprisingly comfortable. I sometimes even sleep in it 3) It accentuates my natural “curves”. 4) It attracts the ladies to the matches. 5) It’s gross to wrestle someone who is sweaty and wearing a singlet. 6) It’s hard to go to the bathroom wearing one. 7) They show-off the washboard abs.

HOT NOT Patrick Sheehan Currently ranked #2 in the section, Sheehan went 7-1 at the prestigious Sierra Nevada Classic, defeating several highly ranked wrestlers, including the Oregon state champion.

InFocus The combination of a lack of segments and subpar reporting, Infocus has reached an all time low. Not to mention with an average air time of one minute and 20 seconds, fourth period is get ting a little lengthy.

Paly Soccer Boys’ Soccer The boys’ soccer team is red hot. The Vikings post a 12-1-2 record as of January 14th with 37 goals for versus 7 goals against. Before a tournament loss to Gilroy, Paly rode a nine game winning streak. Through five league games the team has yet to surrender a goal.

Applying Seniors With a surprising number of students being rejected and deferred after early applications, many academic standouts are being kept out of their favorite college.

Sophomores With over 12 sophomores currently on varsity winter sports teams, the underclassmen are making significant contributions to their team.

Facebook Videos With the recent spike in wall videos, these annoying posts are filling up news feeds and aggravating many Facebook users.

Jujhaar Singh Not only does Singh excel on the pingpong table, but also on the debate floor. Singh placed first in the Dempsey-Cronin Invitational at Santa Clara University for the second straight year.

Detroit Lions

0-16. 11

IAS PROUDLY SUPPORTS THE VIKING!!

Q uestions 10 with

Adrian Augmon

We went to junior basketball player Adrian Augman to ask him ten questions about himself. Then, we asked the same ten questions to his friend Jared Beeson, basketball coach Andrew Slayton, and lady friend Nicole Varveris to see who knows Adrian best. Here are how the results went down:

Adrian Augmon Junior basketball player

Category

Jared beeson

Rock band

Favorite Video Game

Rock band

PX90

Super Mario

Text Less

New Years Resolution

Not Text as Much

Get in paint & grab rebound

Get better at bball

UNC

Desired College

Somewhere in SoCal

UCLA, like his coach

Does he want to go?

She Gotta Donk

Overused Phrase

She Gotta Donk

Fruityness

She Gotta Donk

Favorite Song

She Gotta Donk

Mr. bojangles

Get You Wet

Field Trips on Thursdays

Favorite Activity

Field Trips on Thursdays

Hanging with Joseph Lin

Go fishing

Point Guard

Position on Court

Power Forward

Out of Position

Point Guard

Chipotle

Favorite Meal

Popeye’s

Fruity Pebbles and Cocoa Puffs

big C’s Kitchen

Shoe Size

14 No! 13?...13.5!

Uggs

Favorite Shoe Brand

Jordan’s

Crocs

Jordan’s

60%

20%

Friend

Andrew Slayton basketball Coach

WANT TO ADVERTISE? Please contact The Viking at vikingads@gmail.com 14

Nicole Varveris Lady Friend

Inside the Mind Lakia

“

BY A HN A R AO

ON MR. BERKSON Oh, Jerr-Bear; Big Jerr-Bear, I should say. He’s a pretty cool dude. Well, I know his wife, which is kind of good. I can get him in trouble anytime I want, so he can’t mess with me. We have a great relationship, but he talks a lot of smack. ON BEING SPOILED People think that I’m the most spoiled kid in the world, just because my dad gets me whatever I ask for. I don’t get whatever I want. I got a car. It’s in the shop getting painted, and I just got a laptop. I also got 500 dollars, so maybe I am spoiled. Oh snap. Or maybe my parents just love me. ON HER FUTURE HUSBAND B. Rider. Or wait, a rich white guy. My rich white guy is going to have brown hair and he’s going to have a buzz cut. I don’t like rich white guys with long greasy hair. But he’s going to have a lot of dough. We’re about to be dippin’ out in a Porsche and everything. ON LOSING FRESH TO DEATH I’m just swagalicious. I don’t understand how you guys could let me lose fresh to death like that. You got to have the whole package. I change it up. One day I come sophisticated, and then the next day I bust out with the J’s because I can do it like that. I just got it like that.

Young

Basketball Extraordinaire

Photography by Spencer Sims

ON BEING A SECOND SEMESTER SENIOR I’m loving it dude. What do we do? Nothing. Like I’m chillin’ with four classes next semester. I’m just cruising. I got math, physics, American Writers in Color-- or of color whatever, and I don’t even know what other class. ON KEVIN AND MICHAEL Kevin and I have a secret relationship. It has been onand-off since eighth grade. Once upon a time he told me that he was blacker than me; but I just told him that is never possible. He’s like the whitest guy I know. He’s like an albino rhino. Michael and I also had a relationship back in middle school. He’s my little boo. Rocked it at the Mitchell Park dances and everything. I mean, he may be short but he could rock some platforms or something. You know. ON BASKETBALL Um, let’s see well… I am the best player on the team. I like dominate, but other than that, my team is pretty cool. I think we get along pretty well sometimes, and it’s a really good experience. Me and the coach are pretty chill; not as many problems, It’s going gravy right now. I respect him; he respects me. I’m busy dominating everything on and off the court.

“

Senior Lakia Young has been playing basketball all her life, and is a leader on the Paly girls’ varsity squad this season. The Viking was lucky enough to have a few minutes to talk with this star athlete, and received a little insight into the life of Lakia Young.

Story of My...

Haircut

SHADES uP Senior Kevin Ashworth (above) had a face with sunglasses shaved on the back of his head. TIME FOR A TRIM Senior Captain Adam Zernik (middle) comically shaves Junior Spencer Sims’ beard. TOO CLOSE FOR COMFORT Senior John Christopherson (right) has his head completely shaved. preseason start of three consecutive scrimmage W ithwins,a strong the Palo Alto High School boys’ varsity soccer team

combined natural talent, hours of practice and one good luck charm to start off the season: haircuts. Enduring funny stares and the cold winter air, the Vikings carried on a two-year tradition, holding its annual “Barber Shop” to cut and shave each other’s hair. “It’s a really good team bonding experience and helps get the team going and ready for the year,” senior center midfielder Kevin Ashworth said. Haircut styles included cornrows, handprints, checkerboards and faces. Sophomore midfielder John Richardson chose an earmuff style haircut. “A lot of people thought the haircut was supposed to be headphones so some people would come up and pull on the sides of my hair and ask what I was listening to; Spencer Sims to name one,” Richardson said. Not only were the haircuts an enjoyable and humorous experience, but also a way for the team to bond. Every member of the team participated and came up with styles for each other, and the seniors cut and shaved each design. Held at the beginning of the season, haircuts were a way HIGH FIVE Junior Scott Alexander sports his new hair which features the imprint of a teammate’s hand.

“I got a haircut that was

supposed to look like earmuffs, but my hair needed to be longer to pull it off so I definitely just ended up looking like my balding dad,” Richardson said to welcome new players. “The whole experience was a lot of fun, and really helped bring us together as a team, and make everyone feel welcome,” sophomore defender Mark Raftery said. The next day much of the student body, as well as staff enjoyed seeing the unique hairstyles around campus. “Mr. Scott was thrilled,” Ashworth said. “He thought it was hilarious. Also every time I would turn around someone would be staring at me.” Raftery also noted incredulous stares. “The next day, it seemed like everyone I was talking to was looking at my hair, instead of my face,” Raftery said. A month later, the haircuts have been shaved off completely and the team’s hair is growing back, just like its success. With training underway, the Vikings are en route to their goal of a CCS championship. <<<

FEATuRE

got game?

BY C ASSIE PRIOLEAU

The tradition of hunting has captured the attention of a few Palo Alto High School students. Although hunting is limited in California, they search far and wide for the best game in the country and beyond.

RuSTIC Beckstrom wields his gun and a recently hunted bird while out hunting in the Baylands near Palo Alto.

photo credits: courtesy of elliot beckstrom

Alto High School sophomores P alo Elliot Beckstrom, Cory Valenti and

Alex Zarem are not your typical athletes. They are not exempt from P.E. for their sport and they do not have coaches. They do not belong to a team; their only uniform is their camouflage and they do not have an opponent. They are hunters. Beckstrom, Valenti and Zarem discovered the Southern-dominated sport through friends and family. They hunt as often as they can, including occasional after-school trips to nearby hunting areas. Traveling as far as Canada and Georgia to hunt better game, they are like any other Paly athletes; they are incredibly committed to their sport. For Beckstrom, Valenti and Zarem

hunting is more than a sport, it is a tradition. Originally a means of survival, hunting has evolved into a sport and a passion passed down from generation to generation. The appeal of the outdoors reels young people to the sport. For Zarem and Valenti, their families originally introduced them to the sport. Zarem’s father hunts and took him to get his hunting license when he was eight years old. Valenti first started hunting at age 12 and grew up in a family where the sport has always been prevalent. “The tradition of hunting is something that is passed down,” Valenti said. “People in America have always hunted the same animals that we hunt now. It’s cool to know that it’s been passed down through the centuries. Also, almost my

whole family has done it and so it is a good opportunity to have something in common with my family and extended family.” One of the most common ways to get involved in the sport is through family tradition. Valenti’s family is originally from the South, where hunting is much more common. Because of this family history, Valenti grew up with constant exposure to hunting. However, without the introduction to hunting through family, the sport is often seen as a more non-mainstream activity, and young people are often never exposed to it. Around Palo Alto, there are very few public lands in the area where hunting is legal. The restricted hunting options make it even more difficult for young

FEATuRE people to get involved in the sport. Although less common, there are ways to get involved with hunting in California without a hunting family. Beckstrom is the only one in his family that hunts. Jordan Middle School industrial technology teacher, Hal Roach first introduced Beckstrom to the sport

of hunting, many people have questioned the morality of hunting. Instead of viewing the sport as connecting the hunter to nature, some view it as destroying and killing nature. Mostly due to this view, hunters are often confronted with extremely negative reactions to their sport.

change their views of the sport after a little convincing, but many people are firm in their beliefs. “A lot of times they’re set in their ways and just think of it as killing,” Valenti said. “They just don’t want to listen.” A strict moral code comes along with hunting. This unwritten code outlines

”It’s a very different sport. It’s less competition and more physical contact. It’s about being outside and keeping the tradition of hunting,” Beckstrom said. when he was 13 years old after recognizing potential for interest in the sport. “Elliot was into paintballing and I was talking to him one day about how much he enjoyed shooting and things just moved from there,” Roach said. “I think he was interested, as he was an avid fisherman before taking a hunter safety class.” Beckstrom’s love for the sport grew despite the lack of family ties. “Hunting is one of the oldest activities humans have exercised,” Beckstrom said. “It is usually passed from father to his children and it’s a family oriented activity. In most cases the whole family hunts, there are very few cases, like me, where I am the only hunter in my entire family.” According to Beckstom, Valenti and Zarem, the best part of hunting is being outside and close to nature. Although there is no winner or loser and no score is kept, hunting is just as much a sport as anything else. “It’s a very different sport,” Beckstrom said. “It’s less competition and more physical contact. It’s about being outside and keeping the tradition of hunting.” Hunting is a painstaking sport, with a long process of preparation for all types of game. “It’s definitely a sport in the sense that you’re working really hard to achieve a goal,” Zarem said. “It’s very satisfying after all the work you’ve done.” Although being outdoors and connected to nature is one of the best parts

“I honestly have no idea why anybody has a moral problem with hunting,” Beckstrom said. “I can see why the killing of animals can upset some, but it is mostly from a lack of education on the subject. People who have a moral problem with hunting just aren’t informed about the sport. It isn’t limitless killing, or senseless slaughter.” Beckstrom, Valenti and Zarem agree that there are certain negative stereotypes that come along with being a hunter. Valenti said the problem stems from misunderstandings and a lack of understanding of the sport. According to Valenti, some people

the respectful way to hunt animals. “The moral code is basically being ethical,” Beckstrom said. “Never take a shot that will not assure a clean kill. Don’t kill hens if it can be avoided. Don’t shoot for antlers by that I mean don’t shoot for the trophy and waste the meat.” In hunting, animals are always respected. Hunters do not hunt simply for the glory, but they eat everything they hunt and nothing is wasted. Preparation for some animals can be done by the hunter, but in particular cases the meat must be shipped to a processor to be made ready for eating.

PRIDE Beckstrom proudly lines up 18 ducks after a day of hunting in Arkansas.

FEATuRE

photo credits: (left) courtesy of elliot beckstrom, (right) courtesy of alex zarem

TRADITION Zarem proudly poses with his freshly hunted birds. Soon after, the ducks and turkey were ready to be eaten. “After harvesting an animal, the preparation depends on the type of animal,” Valenti said. “For ducks and birds, you do all the work from plucking their feathers to cutting out the meat. It’s pretty simple. With larger animals such as deer, after the animal is harvested, you must ‘field dress’ or gut the animal, so the meat doesn’t spoil. Once you’ve done that you just take it to a designated deer processor, which are much more common in other parts of the country.” According to Beckstrom, hunting is morally justified and conservation of the animals is very important to hunters. “The animals go cleaner, and we are the number one supporters of conservation,” Beckstrom said. Zarem believes that eating hunted meat is more humane than eating meat bought from a store. He does not like the idea of livestock being raised to be food and says the meat he eats

is from animals who had a chance to live in nature. “I don’t like tortured meat,” Zarem said. Along with having moral discrepancies, hunting is often considered an unsafe sport. The involvement of guns always brings danger into play, but training and classes help minimize the risk. “In order to get a California hunting license, you have to complete hunter safety,” Beckstrom said. “It is a two day

class that mostly covers safety, conservation, and ethics with a touch of basic hunting skills. After completing the class you get a hunter safety card which is good for most states and with that card you can purchase a hunting license.” The extensive training and classes help prevent hunting accidents and familiarize the hunters with the safety precautions. “The danger is weeded out pretty early,” said Beckstrom. He has taken both gun safety and hunter safety classes. “It’s not dangerous unless you don’t have common sense,” Zarem said. The Paly hunters are willing to take the risks involved with hunting for the joy it brings to their lives. Stereotyped views and hunting restrictions hinder its popularity in the Bay Area and California, but for Beckstom, Zarem and Valenti, hunting is a passion. <<<

“People who have a moral problem with hunting just aren’t informed about the sport. It isn’t limitless killing, or senseless slaughter,” Beckstrom said.

SINCE WE LAST SAW YOu...

2ND

FOOTBALL

CC S

Bo ys ’ Storming through the massive “Go Wildcats” sign with a giant flag reading #52, it became clear from the start that the Los Gatos Wildcats showed up for a fight in the Central Coast Section championships at San Jose City College on December 6th. After the Palo Alto Vikings narrowly beat the Wildcats 17-14 on a last second field goal earlier in the season, many predicted a close game in the teams’ meeting in the CCS playoffs. The Vikings, given the number six seed in the CCS playoff bracket, blew through three-seed Leigh High School 48-0 and two-seed Monterey High School 38-16 en route to their third championship game appearance in three years. After the tragic loss of the Wildcats’ senior defensive lineman, Michael Halpin, on December 2nd, Los Gatos chose to carry on and play the game in Halpin’s honor. Before the game, fans and players alike shared a moment of silence. Additionally the Los Gatos fans made t-shirts in tribute to the fallen football player. The cause of Halpin’s death is still unknown. “We really didn’t expect it to be a very good game,” senior wide receiver Will Holder said. “We knew they were going to come out fired up because of the death of Halpin.” Not to be outdone, senior quarterback Will Brandin and Holder connected twice on long completions, one of which went for a touchdown. Down in the fourth quarter, the two seniors connected once again to bring the Vikings into scoring position, resulting in a field goal giving Palo Alto a 23-21 lead. “[The fourth quarter catch] was definitely a big momentumshifter, but the fact that all we got was a field goal out of it killed our momentum right away,” Holder said. “That’s what

kept hurting us the whole game.” Just as the Vikings looked well on their way to becoming three-time CCS champions, the Wildcats responded with a three-play drive that delivered the go-ahead score. Los Gatos quarterback, junior Nick Hirschman, barely avoided a turnover, as Viking senior cornerback Paul Brown leaped and tipped the ball into the air, landing in the hands of Los Gatos wide receiver Jake Hackman-Salazar. Hackman-Salazar took the ball to the Vikings’ seven yard line where Hirschman later ran the ball in for the Wildcats’ final score. Down 29-23 with a little over two minutes to play, the Vikings surged down the field on their way to the go-ahead score. Unfortunately, Brandin then threw a costly interception on a pass to Holder downfield. The interception put an end to the Viking’s hopes to be three time CCS football champions, after winning in both 2006 and 2007. “The season overall was a success,” Holder said. “Coming in I don’t think anybody thought we’d be going to CCS and playing for the CCS championship. We played well; they just got lucky one more time than we did.” However, the Vikings remain motivated that the solid core of juniors and underclassmen returning next season can maintain Paly’s winning ways. “Next season we have a good quarterback duo with [T.J] Braff and [Christoph] Bono, two of the top receivers in the league between Joc [Pederson] and Maurice [Williams] and our solid linebacker [Jared] Beeson,” junior offensive lineman Troy Boyland said. “Our goals are to advance to open division and then try to go to states, which is definitely possible.”

STATISTICAL LEADERS yA R ds RUsHiNg 1. TOMPKINS (1497) 2. IBARRA (192) 3. FIELDS (179) 3. BEASLEY (179) T EA m mvP: o ff ENsivE mvP: dEf ENsivE mvP:

yA Rd s RE c Eiv iN g 1. PEDERSON (745) 2. HOLDER (572) 3. WOOLSON (344) 4. GARGIULO (271)

T o U c Hdo wN s 1. TOMPKINS (20) 2. HOLDER (6) 3. PEDERSON (5) 3. FIELDS (5)

WILL HOLDER SAM TOMPKINS STEVEN GARGIULO

oTHER PosTsEAsoN REsULTs: BOYS CrOSS-COunTrY The Paly Boys’ Cross-Country team finished 8th in the California State Championship Meet on November 29th in Fresno, CA. Phillip Macquitty was Paly’s top finisher in 6th place with a time of 15:14 over the 5km course. Charlie Avis was second for Paly, finishing in 48th and Skyler Cummins was Paly’s third finisher in 51st. Avis and Cummins ran the course in 16:07 and 16:09 respectively. The rest of Paly’s squad was rounded out by Henry Jordan (102nd, 16:38), Peter Wilson (147th, 17:08), Alex Voet (169th, 17:32), and Andrew Stober (183rd, 18:06). The finish was Paly’s top finish in Cross-Country in 35 years.

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After months of hard work and preparation, the Palo Alto High school varsity boys’ basketball team finally took to the court at the James Link High School tournament on December 4th. With a shorthanded squad, Paly finished the tournament with a 2-1 record, losing in the championship game. “We started out pretty well with a 2-1 record,” junior forward Adrian Augmon said. “We are feeling really confident right now.” That confidence, combined with toughness of senior forward Steven Gargiulo and junior guard Joc Pederson who arrived late from the football team, has the Vikings prepared heading into the regular season. “A lot of the guys are really excited because we did well in our first tournament and we are getting the football guys,” head coach Andrew Slayton said. “They add an element of physicality, athleticism and size that we did not have before.” After losing to Mountain View on December 12th, the team won the following game against Riordan High School. Paly then headed out to back-to-back tournaments over winter break. The Vikings finished with a 2-1 record in the Rocklin and St. Francis tournaments, and an overall preseason record of 7-5. Despite their preseason disappointments, the Vikings are still confident heading into the regular season. The team backed up the confidence with a win in its first league game against Los Gatos January 6th. “I think we have been getting a lot better,” senior Frank Wan said. “We were really young before the football players came back, and now that we have them back it gives us size which is great.” As the season rolls along, the Vikings are prepared to make their run at Central Coast Section championship.

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With hours of practice and preparation behind them the Palo Alto High School varsity girls’ basketball team went into their first game on November 25th, not knowing what to expect. “We’ve been working hard, but you can never tell if its paid off until you start playing games,” senior guard Lakia Young said. Against the strong Prospect High School team from Saratoga, the Lady Vikes made a valiant effort, but came out with a tough loss 62-33. After their next two games the Lady Vikes landed their first win of the year with a 44-34 win over Monta Vista. With an overall record of 1-4, the Lady Vikes are now looking forward to their league competition in their first league game at Los Gatos on January 7th. “With preseason coming to an end we’ve been working really hard to prepare for league and we’re hoping to start off strong with our first league game,” junior Lauren Mah said. The team expects large contributions from senior point guard Olivia Garcia. “Olivia is a tremendous impact on our team because she always pushes us,” Mah said. “She’s able to pull through during a tough situation, and makes the craziest shots that are unbelievable.” The Lady Vikes are hoping to power their way through a tough schedule ahead, and end with a successful record.

STATISTICAL LEADERS THIS TEAM DOES NOT TRACK INDIVIDuAL STATISTICS.

STATISTICAL LEADERS POINTS 1. 2. 3.

ASSISTS 1. 2. 3.

REBOUNDS 1. 2. 3.

did yoU kNow? Two of the team’s senior leaders, Sammi Bengston and Jessie Duller, will continue playing together next year at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. They have both been playing on varsity together since freshman year and committed to Cal Poly last summer.

did yoU kNow?

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With a good amount of pressure on Palo Alto High School’s boys’ varsity soccer team, the Vikings have certainly proved that they have the potential to return to the CCS championships again this year. So far, they have posted an impressive 12-1-2 record, and look to improve on that record with upcoming games against Monta Vista, Gunn, and Los Gatos. The strongest point for the Vikings’ so far is the balanced attack that they have presented. With a resilient defense, strong midfield and fast forwards, the Vikings’ defeat their opponents in a variety of ways. “The thing about our team is that you never know who could strike against the opponent,” coach Don Briggs said. “It could be Adam [Zernik], Kevin [Ashworth] or Spencer [Sims]. We are so balanced that we can win in many ways.” Along with experienced position players, the Vikings’ also have a leader and a last defense in senior goalkeeper Peter Johnson. Addressing the team’s weakness, Briggs said, “Our one weakness is that we sometimes do not mark the opponent well enough on defense. However, because Peter is able to make some amazing saves, the defense is usually able to get away with it.” With a little improvement on covering opposing players, the Viking’s seem to be getting in good shape as they get closer to the playoffs. With high expectations from the coach, players and the community, the Viking’s look to play their way back into the CCS championships.

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The Palo Alto High School girls’ varsity soccer team experienced a tumultuous opening to its 2008-2009 season. The team’s first major test was the Winter Classic tournament during the first week of December. The Lady Vikes started off strong with a 14-0 win over Latino Prep. Due to the obvious skill discrepancy between the teams, even sophomore goalie, Alex Kershner, scored one of the 14 goals. With confidence and momentum, the team beat league rival, Los Altos, 2-1. On the third day of the tournament, the Lady Vikes hit a rough patch and tied 1-1 with Woodside Priory. Paly dominated the first half, but lost energy and focus, allowing Priory’s Leslie Barkmann to score a goal. After regaining stamina, the girls were able to hold off Priory’s offense, ending the game in a tie. The team advanced to the final game against St. Francis. The Lancers scored the first goal, but junior Emily Yeates was quick to respond tying the score. The teams played 20 minutes of overtime during which the Lancers scored the final goal, capturing the tournament title. Though Paly failed to defend its champion status from last year’s tournament, the game is officially recorded as a tie since Central Coast Sectional rules exclude overtime goals from schools’ records. Despite the rocky start, the team maintains its confidence for the rest of the season. It has yet to play an official league game and hopes to improve its record in the regular and post-season. “This year we really want to win our league,” junior Maeve Stewart said. “We have not had our best preseason but now that everyone is back, I think that our team will start producing.”

STATISTICAL LEADERS GOALS 1. ANDERTON (7) 2. SIMS (7) 3. ZERNIK (7)

ASSISTS 1. FOx (6) 2. ZERNIK (6) 3. SANBORN (3)

POINTS 1. ZERNIK (20) 2. ANDERTON (15) 3. SIMS (15)

STATISTICAL LEADERS did yoU kNow? The San Jose Mercury ranked the boys’ soccer team #2 in CCS in its January 14th edition. The only team ranked higher than the Vikings was Bellarmine College Prep, a Division I school that Paly would not face in postseason play. The CCS playoffs begin in early February, and the team anticipates its highest seeding since coach Don Briggs took over in 2003.

PHOTO CREDITS: ALLIE SHORIN (LEFT), MALAIKA DREBIN (RIGHT)

GOALS 1. JENKS (11) 2. STEWART (5) 3. BENGSTON (4)

ASSISTS 1. CAIN (5) 2. BENGSTON (5) 3. DULLER (5)

POINTS 1. JENKS (24) 2. BENGSTON (13) 3. STEWART (10)

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Bo ys ’ After a rigorous offseason training program and a productive preseason, the Viking wrestling squad was finally prepared for its first tests. In the annual Half Moon Bay tournament on December 5th and 6th, the Vikings had multiple finalists, as well as numerous other placers. Seniors Patrick Sheehan (160 pounds) and Noah Feldstein (145) both finished in second place, while freshman Ryan Oshima (152) finished first. Other varsity placers included juniors Jack Sakai in fifth (130), Max Simon in sixth (171), senior Erez Arnon (135) in sixth, and freshman Joey Christopherson (103) in seventh. “We were really pumped up for the tournament,” freshman Joey Christopherson said. “Our hard practice really showed.” While the rest of Paly was having a restful winter break, the Vikings were busy wrestling at the prestigious Sierra Nevada Classic Wrestling Tournament in Reno, Nevada. With 98 schools from seven states being repre-

sented, the Vikings were up against stiff competition. “This is a tough tourney,” head coach Dave Duran said. “But we did a lot better than last year.” Senior captain Patrick Sheehan, who is currently ranked #2 in the section, was the stand-out Paly athlete, going 7-1 and finishing in fourth place. “He did really well,” Duran said. “He not only beat state placers but also beat the state champion from Oregon.” With impressive showings in the past several tournaments, the Vikings are gearing up for the beginning of league play. “We are wrestling really well right now”, Duran said. “But we’re pretty tired and got a lot of wrestling coming up.” With a strong senior core and talented underclassmen, the Vikings are shaping up to have a very promising season.

STATISTICAL LEADERS WINS 1. SHEEHAN (21) 2. FELDSTEIN (16) 3. SIMON (14)

LO S S E S 1. OSHIMA (0)* 2. SHEEHAN (3) 3. FELDSTEIN (7)

CC S R A N K ( W E I G H T C L A S S ) 1. SHEEHAN (2ND, 160) 2. FELDSTEIN (8TH, 140) 3. SIMON (15TH, 152)

*3-0 VARSITY, 13-0 JV did yoU kNow? Senior Patrick Sheehan won athlete of the week in the Christmas edition of the Palo Alto Weekly. Sheehan is the first Paly wrestler to earn the honor since John Hall (‘07) during his senior year.

New Kids on the Block BY SOPHIE BIFFAR

These new additions to Paly and Paly sports programs show promising potential for this season and years to come.

Girls’ Varsity Basketball POSITION: CENTER/POST

Though many expected to see freshman Emilee Osagiede on the soccer field this season, Osagiede decided she wanted a change and tried out for the basketball team. She did not play basketball in middle school because she was focused on soccer. However, Osagiede’s experience from playing on a National Junior Basketball (NJB) team until sixth grade gave her enough experience to make the varsity team as a freshman. “All I can expect is to get better,” Osagiede said. She is not worried about fitting in with the other players because she has gotten to know them over the summer. She is looking forward to making new friends and playing Gunn. Unfortunately, due to a recent knee injury she will be out for a few weeks and is expecting to be able to play in the game against Gunn. With four years of Paly basketball ahead of her, Osagiede is an athlete to keep your eye on.

Tory Prati Coming straight off the football field, freshman Tory Prati is excited to play basketball for Paly. Last year, Prati played on his middle school team at Menlo School. “I want to work on becoming a leader of the team,” Prati said. “I think this is the year where we will get to know each other’s tendencies on the court and prepare for next year and the year after that.” Coach Tom Schmutz goals for Prati this year are simply for him to become introduced to high school basketball and for him to improve his skills. “He can bring every critical category of basketball to the team” Schmutz said. “He is a jack of all trades.” Building from this year, Prati said he is looking forward to playing basketball throughout high school. “I am also looking forward to junior and senior year, when I can become more of a leader for the team,” Prati said. Schmutz says Prati has a bright future. “I expect him to become a successful varsity player” Schmutz said. He is another versatile athlete to follow the next four years.

Boys’ Varsity Basketball POSITION: FORWARD

photo credits (clockwise from top left): hana kajimura, allison shorin, malaika drebin

Emilee Osagiede

Nittai Malchin

Boys’ Varsity Soccer

Paly’s boys’ varsity soccer is lucky to have sophomore Nittai Malchin as part of the team this season. Last year, Malchin attended Los Altos High School and played on the JV soccer team as a freshman. Malchin acknowledges that the Paly team is more serious and intense. “The team at Paly is a lot more committed,” Malchin said. “I think the team will do well because all the players on the team are solid, and we have really good seniors this year that can lead the team well and give us a solid core.” As Malchin makes his debut at Paly and on the Paly soccer field he is a new player to watch.

POSITION: CENTER BACK

Emily Brown Freshman Emily Brown has become a key player on Paly’s junior varsity girls’ soccer team. Brown played for the club team, Jueventues Victory, last year. “I am ready to be challenged in a different way,” Brown said. “I am most excited about seeing new levels of competition.” Brown approaches the experience of playing on a high school team by trying to learn as much as possible from the coaches and other players. She is excited for the upcoming season and ready to contribute everything she can to the team. “I feel no pressure,” Brown said. “I’m just excited to play soccer.”

Girls’ Junior Varsity Soccer POSITION: FORWARD/CENTER

Joey Christopherson

Varsity Wrestling WEIGHT CLASS: 103 LBS

After winning the league championship on the Jordan Middle School team, freshman Joey Christopherson is excited to join the Paly wrestling team. Christopherson wrestles in the 103 pound weight class. “I am looking forward to wrestling at a higher level,” Christopherson said. “I am worried about being able to pull my own weight on a team of mostly upperclassman.” With the help of coach David Duran, who also coached him in middle school, he hopes to reach his goal of competing in Central Coast Section (CCS) individuals. “His goals should be to be a varsity wrestler and qualify for CCS, which he can do.” Duran said. Christopherson has started the season well by placing at his first couple varsity tournaments. He is an up and coming wrestler to watch.

Photo courtesy of Gaston Bolanos

PROFILE

Young Warrior Sophomore Gaston bolanos kicks his way through all opponents in the Muay Thai ring. BY VARuN KOHLI

Photography by John Christopherson

PROFILE Eminem blaring from his headphones, W ithsophomore Gaston Bolanos stares down

at the ground. Excited for the fight, his adrenaline rises, but he closes his eyes and takes a deep breath to stay calm. Rising to his feet, he confidently enters the ring. He sees his opponent, a 31 year old man. Unfazed, Bolanos begins Wai Khru, the customary act of respect that every fighter must perform before a fight. He circles the ring three times. Kneeling down, he bows three times as a sign of respect to God and man, while also asking Buddha for protection and an honorable fight. He stands up to ready himself for his opponent. Muay Thai, a type of martial art, traces back to Thailand where it is the national sport. Although not well-known in America, Muay Thai has a worldwide following. Bolanos is a highly competitive fighter and a member of the United States National Muay Thai team. The martial art is often related to kickboxing, but in kickboxing, fighters utilize only their hands and feet. In Muay Thai, “The Art of Eight Limbs”, fighters can attack with their knees, elbows, hands, and shins. Unlike most Paly athletes, Bolanos competes in a sport where he fights against adults. Until recently, the sport was mainly practiced by adults, and there are very few fighters at Bolanos’ age and skill level. Ever since he started fighting competitively, it has not been unusual for him to fight an older opponent. “[When fighting someone older], I just relax and fight with my heart,” Bolanos said. “If a guy is taller I just go for his legs so that he’s weaker by the second or third round.” Bolanos began practicing Muay Thai at age eight when his father, also named Gaston Bolanos, introduced him to the unusual sport. Mr. Bolanos practiced the art in his youth and passed it down to his son. “I introduced him to the sport when he was only a little kid and wasn’t sure about doing it,” Mr. Bolanos said. “Time passed and he got into it, there was no way to stop him from training. I really enjoyed teaching him this ancient martial art.” Bolanos’ love for the art has never waned. Even after moving from Peru to California in 2006, he continued to participate in Muay Thai by joining the Fairtex Gym in Mountain View. The gym ranks as one of the best in the world for the martial art, and he was quickly noticed as a talented fighter. Bolanos’ big break came in September 2008. Anthony Lin, the president of the United States Muay Thai Federation, offered him a position on USA national team at the 2008 World Cham-

pionships in South Korea. Accepting the offer, Bolanos placed fifth in the Junior Division of the tournament. “They knew I was good and ready for this kind of tournament,” Bolanos said. “Also, the team is sponsored by Fairtex, which helped them get to know me.” On the way to South Korea, Bolanos met his teammates. Among them was Jesse Gillespie, 29, a Fremont policeman. Gillespie began competing professionally in early 2008, and has found the sport to be extremely helpful in his profession. Gillespie’s first impression of Bolanos was a good one. “[Bolanos] was very motivated and very positive,” Gillespie said. “He always found the craziest ways to motivate himself, as well as the people around him.” Throughout the tournament, Gillespie admired Bolanos’ determination and unwavering drive to succeed. The way Bolanos handled himself on an international stage impressed Gillespie, especially because the World Championships was Bolanos’ first tournament. Since then, he has competed in two fights, including a fight in Milpitas against a 31 year-old. “[The World Championship] was definitely the biggest Muay Thai competition I’ve competed in,” Bolanos said. “There were about 800 fighters from more than 70 different countries there.” In the first round he drew one of the toughest opponents possible, a 17 year-old three-time gold medalist from Uzbekistan. The experience gap was huge, Bolanos had only four fights under his belt while the reigning champion had competed in over 80. “I was really excited for this fight,” Bolanos said. “When I saw the draw I knew it was going to be a tough fight. But I felt I had to do my best and that’s exactly what I did. After all, not everyone gets a chance to fight the three-time world champion.” In a close fight, Bolanos silenced any critics who may have doubted his abilities. He landed consecutive hits with his elbow on the opponent’s head during the second round and then knocked him of his feet with a crushing blow. Although Bolanos had executed his attack well, the three-time champion recovered and narrowly won the match. Even after losing, Bolanos was not disappointed. His attitude and persistence earned him the name, “The Young Warrior” among his teammates and coach. “[The tournament] was awesome, it was definitely the best experience I have ever had with Muay Thai,” Bolanos said. “I trained hard and

PROFILE outs, he spends most of his free time at home working on his technique. Even with so much time spent practicing Muay Thai, Bolanos is still just a normal teenager. He tries to surf every weekend and spends a lot of time with his friends. “When he’s fighting he has a killer instinct going,” Gillespie said. “But when he isn’t [fighting], you’d never expect that he’d be a great fighter. He’s goofy and likes to joke around, as any normal teenager would.” With Bolanos’ recent success, he hopes to become a professional Muay Thai fighter. “There are a lot of competitors,” Bolanos said. “But, if I keep my current level of work, I should be become a pro. My main goal is to become the [Muay Thai] World Champion.” However, Bolanos plans to do more than compete professionally. He hopes to attend UCSB while still continuing his Muay Thai career. “It’s all about being organized,” Bolanos said in reference to balancing his career and his social life. “I know many fighters who fight, work, and study. That’s what I want for me too.”

“There’s not doubt in my mind that one day [Bolanos] will go pro,” Gillespie said. “Eventually we will even see him become world champion.” REFLECTION Bolanos in a fighting position in front of a Thai mirror. fought with all of my heart.” His finish in the fight gave a fifth place ranking in the international 60kg weight class. His opponent went on to finish with a silver medal. “Bolanos approached the fight with the ‘no fear’ attitude that he has,” Gillespie said. “He didn’t care about the status of the fighter, he just wanted to claim he was the best. That takes a lot of heart and courage. You can’t teach that.” Although Bolanos’ attitude is something that cannot be taught, he works hard everyday to fight at this level. He spends three hours after school training, as well as a special conditioning class on Friday nights. This class consists of tire flipping, sprints, weights, and other training exercises. On top of the work-

Bolanos’ next step on the path to becoming a professional is to fight in more prestigious competitions and get used to international competition. “[Bolanos’] promoter, the owner of Fairtex, is trying to find him fights outside the country, in places where the sport is bigger and more popular,” Mr. Bolanos said. “There is this probability for Gaston to join the K-1 league in Japan this would be a big step in his Muay Thai career” As a professional, Gillespie knows that balancing a job and professional career poses man hardships. However he is confident that Bolanos will be able to achieve his dreams. “There’s not doubt in my mind that one day [Bolanos] will go pro,” Gillespie said. “Eventually we will even see him become world champion.” <<<

FEATuRE

BRINGING IT TO THE TABLE Tex t and Photos by EMILY FOWLER & VARUN KOHLI

or most people, pingpong is simply F a recreational activity used to pass time on a lazy Sunday. Sure, there is al-

ways friendly competition, but usually the players quickly forget the result of the match, and life goes on. But for a select group of Palo Alto High School athletes, pingpong has quickly become more than a frivolous activity. This winter, juniors Drew Pearson, Grant Audet and Peter Wilson organized a tournament designed to determine the best pingpong player at Paly. “My friends and I were all talking trash about each other and we all thought we were better than the other,” Audet said. “So we decided to have a tournament to

see who was the best.” Pearson notes that the tournament quickly grew to include more than just their group of friends. “A lot of seniors and juniors wanted in,” Pearson said. “We did not let in any freshmen or sophomores. They are not physically fit enough to play pingpong; it is too much of a demand on the body for them.” The tournament developed from its initial concept to a competition of 34 athletes. The creators chose a group of friends whom they considered to be the top pingpong players at Paly. “I wanted it to be exclusive, but then it got bigger and bigger, so I didn’t really

care,” Pearson said. “The more the better-- the more people I can beat. I also wanted to get some seniors in. A few of them talk a little too much. They all think they are really good so we were happy to have them come in, and they all lost.” Co-creator Peter Wilson also attests that he and Pearson had discussed starting the tournament for a long time. “[Pearson] and I have been talking about starting a pingpong club for a while,” Wilson said. “But we decided that

SMACK THAT Senior John Mitchell rallies with junior Drew Pearson at the Mitchell residence in an intense pre-championship practice match.

FEATuRE a Facebook group would be the best way to make the tournament.” The tournament began around the beginning of November and most of the games were played at various players’ households organized through the Facebook group. Opponents were decided based on a bracket constructed by Pearson. However, several players feel that the seeding was not completely accurate of players’ ability. “[Pearson] kind of rigged the thing,” Wilson said. “He made the bracket, so of course he gave himself a really easy bracket.” Junior semifinalist Avi Arfin confirms the notion that Pearson may have stacked the bracket in his favor. “I do not believe that I should have been seeded third,” Arfin said. “ I think [Pearson] was trying to perhaps cheat a little bit to make it easier for him, like putting Elliot Sanborn and Yusei Tajima

against each other in the first round. I think [Pearson] had a little competitive streak that made the bracket a little unfair.” Pearson denies the alleged accusations and believes that other players simply cannot accept their losses and attribute it to the bracket. “I did the bracket as best as I could,” Pearson said. “It is just an easy excuse for why they lost because they aren’t good enough.” As of January 20, 2009, the tournament has progressed to the final two rounds of play. The final four consists of Pearson, Arfin, junior Yusei Tajima, and senior John Mitchell. Each player has his own unique style of play, but Tajima is the tournament’s overwhelming favorite. Mitchell is set to play Tajima in his semifinal match. “My chances of winning the entire tournament aren’t so great,” Mitchell said. “I’m

playing [Tajima] in the semifinal game, and I expected him to win from the get-go.” As for the prize, the winner gets full bragging rights and the title of pingpong champion. “There’s nothing better in the world than bragging about pingpong,” Arfin said. For others, a simple upset in the tournament would be satisfying. “If Drew doesn’t win that will be prize enough,” Mitchell said. As the tournament comes to a close, players are looking forward to future competitions. Wilson and Pearson plan to organize a school club next year so that they can continue playing. In the nearer future, Wilson hopes for a bigger tournament of 64 competitors later in the year, and encourages more people to play. “We asked most people we could think of,” Wilson said. “But we want as many people as we can get.” <<<

FEATuRE

MEET THE FINAL FOUR Yusei Tajima’s pingpong career began last May, unlike most of his opponents. He began playing in the Student Center at Paly, but has now moved beyond that level of play. He has quickly honed his skills to become one of the premiere players at Paly. He astounds many with his talent. “[Tajima] is a wonderchild,” junior Peter Wilson said. All of the other finalists, other than Pearson, agree that Tajima is the tournament’s heavy favorite. “[Tajima] is the more new age, mainline player,” Mitchell says. “He uses a lot of spin and he’s super consistent. Tajima will play Mitchell in the semifinal and claims he is not too worried about beating him. Pearson, on the other hand, is confident that Tajima will not live up to expectations. “[Tajima] is an all right player,” Pearson said. “. I’m getting a good scouting report on him; I think I can take him pretty easily.” Tajima will be satisfied at the end of the competition if he beats Pearson. “If I win I will just laugh in [Pearson’s] face because he’s been saying he can beat me,” Tajima said.

John Mitchell has made it thus far as the only senior in the final four and represents his entire class in this competition of pride. He has been playing since he was 12 years old. “We have a pingpong table and I usually play in the rainy seasons when I am not able to play tennis,” Mitchell said. Mitchell, unlike most players in the tournament, has no complaint with his seed. “I can’t complain,” Mitchell said. “I was the second seed in the draw, far away from Drew. I feel that it was pretty unfair to some people, but for me it was a pretty good draw.” Mitchell will play favored Tajima in the semifinals where he hopes to win as the underdog. “The chances are weak, but you never know. I could fipull an upset,” Mitchell said. “If I make it to the fi nals, and if I play [Pearson] I have a winning record against him so I might have a chance.”

Avi Arfin has been playing pingpong since he was six years old when his family purchased a table for Chanukah. Since then, pingpong has become one of his favorite hobbies. Some players don’t know exactly what to expect from Arfin. “I don’t really know about [Arfin]; I guess he’s the dark horse,” player John Mitchell said. “I’ve seen him play a little bit and he’s very talented.” Others know precisely what Arfin brings to the table. “Arfin is a sassy kind of guy,” Wilson said. “He likes to be passive and use the backhand slice.” Whatever Arfin may bring, he is confident of his abilities. “I’m predicting a final match between me and Yusei,” Arfin said.

Drew Pearson began his pingpong career at a young age. “When I was born, my parents put a paddle next to my crib,” Pearson said. “They could tell right of the bat I was a pingpong player. I’ve been playing ever since I was a little kid, like two or three years old.” Pearson created the tournament and is confident he will be the champion. Many other competitors have noticed this confidence. “[Pearson] is overconfident,” co- creator Peter Wilson said. “He thinks he can win. He is fairly good, but he won’t win everything; he’ll get second place.” Pearson realizes he is nowhere near the favorite in the public’s eyes, but this does not hinder his drive to win. “I’m going to win, definitely,” Pearson said. “I only have like one fan but that’s all right. I wouldn’t say I’m the underdog because people still know I’m going to win, even though they don’t want me to. I just like being the one that everyone is rooting against.”

FEATuRE

CHASING A CHAMPIONSHIP Hana Kajimura flies across the country to support a friend and former teammate. the sun set behind the bleachers A sofState the soccer pitch at North Carolina University for the NCAA Final

By Hana Kajimura and Spencer Sims Photo by Hana Kajimura

“The first half I thought we were a little impatient in our build up of play and we did not get enough numbers in the Four, an icy wind swept across my face. attack,” head coach Paul Ratcliffe said. With temperatures in the upper 20’s, the Fourteen minutes in, freshman forplayers emerged through the tunnel and ward Courtney Barg of the Irish convertentered the field, reaching out to parents ed a ball slotted through the Stanford and fans as they ran by. Teresa Noyola, a defensive line into a quick goal. freshman for the Stanford Cardinal and The Cardinal failed to capitalize on a Paly graduate, slowed in the midst of handful of heartbreaking chances in chaos to squeeze the outstretched hand the second half. Twenty-two minutes in, of her mother. Noyola sent a ball over the top of the An avid Cardinal fan, I attended almost Irish defense to junior Kelley O’Hara who every Stanford womens’ home game this managed to get a shot off only 14 yards season, each win bringing us one step from the goal mouth. Notre Dame goalcloser to a national championship. Over keeper Kelsey Lysander barely deflected the course of a mere two months I had the shot out of bounds. fallen in love with the team, the fans At the final whistle, Stanford had outand the faces that surround it. I faithfully shot Notre Dame 20-12, but the heartwaved my “Go Teresa #7!” sign at every breaking score remained 1-0, Notre game as she stepped on the field. Dame. Fortunately, I was able to get a press An hour after the game, I arrived at pass for both of the Final Four game, ala local steakhouse for the team dinner. I lowing me access to the press looked around at a dining room box and all press conferencfull of devastated faces, spotes. ting Noyola seated with her The Cardinal advanced to parents from across the overthe Final Four after defeating crowded restaurant and ran Portland at home. Going into over to her. the semifinal, the Cardinal “You’re here!” Noyola exhad a 22-1-1 record, a testaclaimed. ment to their historic season. I threw my arms around The team not only set the her, searching for the words to school record for most wins in console an evaded national a single season, but also goals championship. with 71 scored. While it was difficult What had been a dream to see at the time, this game season for the Cardinal, culheld more significance than minated in a single game- the a win or a loss. For the past semifinal match against the three years, Teresa had set a Fighting Irish of Notre Dame. standard of excellence that “I knew it was possible to go our whole team had strived to to the Final Four, ” Noyola said. achieve. Teresa represented us “But even so, I couldn’t believe on the national stage, bringing we had actually made it.” more pride to our school than On December 3rd, a mere we could have ever dreamed. two days before the semifi- A long way from home Freshman Teresa Noyola waves to the <<< Cardinal fans in the audience at the match against Notre Dame.

nals, the Stanford players woke up at the crack of dawn to make a two-stop flight to Raleigh, North Carolina that turned into a long day of travel. After waiting in the San Jose airport terminal for over six hours, the team touched down in Raleigh shortly after midnight only to find that the players’ luggage had not yet arrived. With afternoon rain and snow showers expected during Friday’s game, I wondered how the team would adapt to a climate so foreign from the California sunshine. “I think the whole team, not just the freshmen, had nerves coming in to the semi[finals],” Noyola said. “In the end it was just another game and we knew we just had to keep doing what we had been doing all season.” Moments into the opening whistle, the Cardinals leisurely pace displayed their anxiety.

Features

FEATuRE

FACES IN THE NCAA By ScottWitte

Nathan Ford

Cornell University >>> Football and Baseball A former three-sport star at Palo Alto High School, 6’ 1” 205 pound Nathan Ford now excels in both football and baseball at Cornell University. Receiving a good portion of playing time as a sophomore at Cornell and starting his junior and senior year, Ford compiled a total of 26 touchdowns with an average quarterback rating of 110.95 throughout his career. As a junior, Ford was named a first-team All-Ivy League player for baseball. Leading his team with an outstanding batting average of .410, Ford proved to be a vital factor in Cornell’s success last spring. Ford also led his team in at-bats(144), hits(59), doubles(17), total bases(89), and slugging percentage(.618). Proving to be exceptional on both sides of the ball, Ford yielded a team-high .975 fielding percentage as a utility player. Photo courtesy of Cornell University

Austinn Freeman Stanford >>> Soccer

Photo courtesy of Stanford University

A four-year varsity letter winner at Palo Alto High School in both soccer and tennis, Austin Freeman recently finished her third season for the Stanford womens’ soccer team. In high school, Freeman was captain of both her soccer and tennis teams and won many awards in soccer such as the Central Coast Section female Scholar-Athlete of the Year and junior of the Year in the De Anza Division of the Santa Clara Valley Athletic League. She is Paly’s school record-holder in assists and also the winner of the 2005 Palo Alto High School Achievement Award. In both her junior and senior years, Freeman was selected a first-team All-De Anza Division member. As a redshirt junior this past season, Freeman helped the Cardinal to an NCAA final four appearance, coming up short with a loss to Notre Dame.

Brian Baskauskas

Amherst College >>> Basketball

Photo courtesy of Amherst College

2005 Paly basketball standout Brian Baskauskas is playing in what looks to be a very successful season for both Baskauskas and the Amherst Lord Jeffs. After starting three years at Paly, Baskauskas led his team to a CCS title as a senior. A 6’6”, 225 pound senior small forward at Amherst College, Baskauskas is once again leading his team for what is shaping up to be a great season. As of December 9th, Baskauskas was fourth in the New England Small College Athletic Conference in scoring (17.5 ppg) with the fifth-highest field goal percentage (.575) and 10thbest mark from three-point range (.480). Baskauskas has also proven himself on the defensive side, averaging 1.33 steals per game, landing him at eighth best in the conference. He is now closing in on history as he is less than 200 points away from being the 23rd player in program history to reach the 1,000-point mark.

Jeremy Lin

Harvard University >>> Basketball

Photo courtesy of Harvard University

“All everything” former Palo Alto High School basketball player Jeremy Lin now leads the Harvard Crimson basketball team as a 6’2”, 180 pound junior. Earning his first varsity letter as a freshman, Lin played four years, starting three. Leading the team to a state title his senior year, Lin is arguably the best Viking point guard of all time. Lin racked up numerous awards during his time at Paly, including Northern California Division II Player of the Year. Now a junior at Harvard, Lin has played in every game, and was the only player to start all 30 games as a sophomore. He was named the team’s Raymond P. Lavietes ’36 Most Valuable Player Award along with being named All-Ivy League Second Team, and led the league in steals(58) as a sophomore. So far, Lin has averaged 20.5 points, 3.7 assists, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.5 steals per game during his junior season. Lin also led the Crimson to an upset over #17 Boston College, racking up 27 points, eight assists, and six steals.

FEATuRES

The Mane Thing

Paly athletes gallop towards success in the sport of horseback riding. BY HANNA BRODY 34

FEATuRES McKinley Siegfried could barely S enior remember anything. Her head pound-

Photo courtesy of Cami Pease

ed as she looked around the unfamiliar walls of the ambulance rushing her to the hospital. While riding, Siegfried and her horse had fallen over. Siegfried suffered a concussion so severe that she was immediately sent to the hospital for treatment. This injury, typical to the sport, is a risk Siegfried and many other Palo Alto High School students are willing to take for the love of horseback riding. Equestrians typically start horseback riding at a young age. But what starts out as a mere interest in riding turns into a time consuming and expensive passion. Competition and training engulf the rider’s free time, transforming her from a girl who rides for fun into a true athlete. Junior Natalie Lin started riding when she was eight years old. Growing up in Japan, Lin used to visit a park that offered pony rides where she would always ask for more than one. Lin’s love for horses flourished when she moved to America and pursued the sport. Like Lin, Siegfried began riding at a young age. She had always wanted to ride, so at age nine, she decided to become more serious about the sport. “That was the time when it became clear to my parents that I wasn’t just some little girl asking for pony rides,” Siegfried said. “I actually wanted to ride.” After fully committing to the sport, most riders consider buying their own horse. Depending on breeding, health, age, size and ability, horses can cost over thirty thousand dollars. Additionally, owners must keep their horse at a barn, provide food and care, and keep the horse active. Most riders visit their horse everyday, even if they are not riding them. “On Mondays, the horses at my barn have the day off, but I still go up there and walk my horse around,” senior Cami Pease said. “I don’t want him to feel neglected.” Caring for horses is only a small fraction of riding. Most riders spend five to six days a week at their barn training and riding year round. “It is definitely not a seasonal sport,” Pease said. “You can always ride, no matter if it is winter or summer.” Riders spend three hours at the barn

each day. Before they can begin to ride, they must groom and prepare their horse. “I have to brush my horse and take care of him,” Lin said. “I also have to feed him his supplements and vitamins before I ride.” Riders work with a trainer to improve their riding ability. Trainers are vital when riders practice jumping and other dangerous skills. Senior Haley Dwight has lessons with her trainer two to three times a week. “I usually only practice jumps with my trainer,” Dwight said. “I don’t do them by myself because [trainers] should be there to set up the jumps and make sure nothing bad happens.” The sport’s time commitment often takes a toll on riders. This year, Siegfried has taken some time off from riding to focus on school and college applications. Siegfried found that the time commitment to care for her three horses was too large. “When I do ride, I ride each of my horses for an hour,” Siegfried said. “It takes all afternoon.” Although practice may require time and commitment from riders, it usually pays off in competition, which take place far from Palo Alto and typically start early in the morning. A rider usually gets only a mere 15 minutes in the arena in front of the judges. “Competitions are really like, ‘hurry up and wait,” Siegfried said. “You have to get there really early and then you just wait around for your chance to ride.” There are many different types of riding competitions. Dwight competes in eventing, the triathlon of horseback riding. The competition consists of three phases: The first phase is called dressage. In dressage, the horse and rider perform a series of complicated movements and are judged on their precision and display of ‘oneness’. In the next phase, cross -country, the pair gallops across what is a giant field, jumping over natural obstacles such as timber logs or overturned boats. Judged on timing in this phase, the horse and rider must complete the course before the allotted time runs out. Third is stadium jumping, a timed course of high jumps in an arena. The winner

FEATuRES

TEAMMATES Senior McKinley Siegfried poses at the barn with one of her three horses.

Lin has experienced several scary falls throughout her riding career. She has suffered a concussion, a hip injury and dislocated elbow. “I fell off my horse and stuck out my arm as I was falling,” Lin said “My elbow got really messed up.” Similar to Lin, Siegfried has experienced her fair share of riding accidents.

HOLD ON TIGHT Haley Dwight completes a stadium round at Nationals in Kentucky.

photo credits: (top left) hana kajimura, (left) courtesy of haley dwight, (right) courtesy of cami pease

is the rider who completes all the levels fastest, and with the fewest faults by the horse. Dwight remarks that the stadium jumping phase is more nerve-wracking than the cross-country section. “If you hit a jump in the arena, it falls over,” Dwight said. “In cross-country if you hit a jump, it won’t fall over onto you. Arena jumping is kind of scary.” Pease and Lin compete in hunter jumping which is judged on how the horse moves and jumps. “Hunter is basically judged on how pretty the horse looks,” Lin said. In addition to hunter jumping, Pease also does equitation with her horse. Equitation is judged more on how the rider looks than the horse’s movements. Judges look at the rider’s form and how well they control the horse. Horseback riding injuries are mainly caused by learning difficult skills for competition. According to the American Horse Council, the most common group receiving treatment for equestrian-related injury is young, female riders. Although trainers and coaches are present when riders attempt difficult jumps or maneuvers, the horse’s movements cannot always be controlled. A horse may move differently than a rider wants it to, causing her to fall and risk injury.

As she was jumping with her horse, the belt that kept her saddle on came loose causing the saddle to flip underneath the horse. Siegfried fell off the horse before she was pulled underneath, but suffered a harsh landing. She severely hurt her back, but considered herself lucky. “I was grateful that I was not hurt more seriously when I fell,” Siegfried said. Though Siegfried has had many encounters with danger, she does not let those experiences frighten her. They did not make her want to stop riding; they helped her to learn. “My experiences helped me realize that there are so many elements that go into horseback riding,” Siegfried said, “If you never fall off and never get hurt, you never really realize that you could.” On the contrary, Dwight believes she is blessed that she has not had any major injuries in her riding career. “Luckily, nothing bad has happened,” Dwight said. “I have definitely fallen more times than I can count, but I have not had any broken bones or anything yet.” Despite the imposing risk of injury, riders feel that training and caring for their horse forms a level of trust with the animal, thus allowing them to be successful in attempting dangerous jumps and maneuvers.

FEATuRES

JuMP Senior Cami Pease and her horse Vivaldi attempt a daring jump at a horse show. Pease has been riding since she was six. “You really have to trust the horse and they really have to trust you,” Pease said. Most outsiders assume that the horses do most of the work in the sport, which is undoubtedly false. “Most people think that the horse does all the work,” Lin said. “The horse does do some of the work, but you are the one who has to make the horse do it. It is pretty hard if the horse does not

athlete,” Dwight said. “But in riding, there are two athletes working together.” Another important aspect in the relationship between the rider and the horse is that they click. Not every horse is right for every rider so it is often difficult to find a horse that has the qualities the rider desires. “This is a personality matching trick,” Siegfried said. “You have to be able to

“My experiences helped me realize that there are so many elements that go into horseback riding. If you never fall off and never get hurt, you never really realize that you could. - senior McKinley Siegfried want to do what you want it to.” Riders feel that they work with their horse to achieve their goals, that they are teammates. “In other sports, it is just you as the

find the right horse and want to de well because not everyone rides with the same style and not every horse moves the same way.” As far as riding in college, many top

universities offer equestrian programs for students. Brown, Columbia and Stanford University, for example, have equestrian teams. “I only applied to schools with riding programs,” Pease said. “I am going to try to take my horse with me wherever I go.” For many riders, riding is a chance to get away from the stresses of their life. For Lin, her bond with her horse helps her escape from her busy world. “Riding is my Zen time,” Lin said. “It is so weird. If I have a bad day at school and I just go riding, I feel so good. When I am riding I don’t think about anything else other than riding.” The challenging sport of horseback riding continues to take over the lives of riders across the nation. As a rider grows older and the commitment of time and money increases, riders continue to thrive in the sport. “It is so much fun,” Lin said. “It is a challenge, but that is what makes it so great. It is really amazing.” <<<

THEUNWRITTENRULES OF SPORTS BY MARCO SCOLA /// PhoTo-ILLuSTraTIon By noah SneIder With winter sports in full swing and the school year approaching the halfway mark, there couldn’t be a better a time to go over some general sports etiquette. If you’re a younger frosh-soph athlete, read the next few hundred words carefully. Some of this may be review for you varsity guys out there, but consider this your formal invitation to brush up on rules you either forgot or never knew existed. This is by no means intended to be an exclusive list, but rather a compilation of some of the more general unwritten rules of sports. Without further ado...

Act Like You’ve Been There Before

Look, when you get to the end zone, act like a professional. Unless you just made a game winning play, don’t spike the ball, dance around, or even make a sorry attempt to dunk the ball over the goal post. The same thing goes for baseball. Don’t pull a Manny Ramirez and stand and watch the ball fly from the batters box for a minute and a half. Everyone knows you’re good; you just popped one over the fence. Drop your bat (don’t you dare flip it), run the bases looking straight ahead, and go back into the dugout and get ready to take the field. The only thing you do by standing around admiring your bomb is increase your chances of getting nailed by the pitcher in your next at-bat. Nothing is as ridiculous as when a basketball player hits a routine threepointer, then proceeds to hold his follow-through for an extra ten seconds. He gets back late on defense, and winds up costing his team two or three points on the other end. It’s a basketball game, there’s going to be 200 points scored. If every player who ever made a shot gloated all the way back to the other end of the court, basketball would turn into a game of H-O-R-S-E. Soccer is really its own category. Does anyone understand the whole shirt over the head thing? Who even started that? That’s the best they could come up with? At least other sports are creative. The only people that should be able to celebrate a soccer goal are the fans in attendance who are rejoicing that they didn’t just pay to watch a 0-0 tie.

Remember Why You’re There This is so important that it should be written into every sport’s official rulebook. This is a competition. Check your friendships at the door. Regardless of the sport, there is no place for socializing. End of story. Not only should there be no letup against a friend, a true competitor should want to crush his friend worse than any regular opponent. Professional baseball players set the worst example with all the fraternizing around the batting cage before a game. Nothing is more discouraging to a fan than watching their favorite player chatting it up with the opponent’s best player before a game. It begs the question ‘How serious is he about winning this game?’ But then again, maybe we should reassess our definition of “athlete” if we are using baseball players as our model. (Yeah, I’m talking to you CC Sabathia) Engaging in anything more than eye contact with an opponent should be banned. As Coach Duran used to say before every game against Gunn, “Out on the streets, these guys may be your ‘homies,’ but the minute you step on the field they become your enemy. Go out there, beat them by 60 points, shake their hands, tell them ‘good game,’ and after it’s all over, you can go back to being ‘homies.’”

Don’t Rub It In It’s bad enough that you’re kicking the crap out of them; let them leave with a little dignity. Chances are, you’ve been on both sides of that coin. We’ve all experienced agonizing losses and exhilarating victories, and we know that the former is nothing compared to the latter. Everyone loves to rub salt in the losing team’s collective wound, until karma strikes back. Oh, you don’t believe in karma? (See both A) the New England Patriots in the 2008 Super Bowl and B) Tom Brady’s anterior cruciate ligament.) Once the win is securely in hand, have some class. You don’t steal bases with a significant lead and you certainly don’t swing at a 3-0 pitch. Remove your starters and let those scoutteamers get some playing time. Take a knee and show some sportsmanship. Above all else, win the right way.

Know All The Little Things There are some things you just have to know. They have nothing to do with being professional, they are just the little idiosyncrasies of the games. There are millions of these, but here are a few big ones. Golf, for example, could have its own book of unwritten rules. But if you’re going to play, you need to know some big ones; don’t talk in someone’s backswing, don’t step in another player’s line, and take the pin out of the hole for the other person when they’re putting. In baseball, if your pitcher has a no-hitter going, act like you don’t even know the guy. Don’t talk to him, don’t make eye contact, and don’t you dare utter the words “no hitter” to anyone. As far as unwritten rules go, this one might take the cake: Always take care of your teammates. If your guy is a rebound away from a double-double, a goal away from a hat-trick or a hit away from .300, do everything in your power to get it for them. If the benches are clearing, you better be the first one out there. Oh, and one last thing. Do everyone a favor and wash all your stuff. No one cares how lucky it is.

S k at e r Boy Freshman Brian Benton strives to spin to the top of the professional skating world, while battling typical figure skating stereotypes along the way.

rian Benton stands out in the crowd. Neither his 5’11” frame nor his lanky limbs distinguish him, but rather the fact that 15 girls surround him on an ice skating rink. However, this does not bother him. The teasing, the side-comments and the fact that he is the only male skater at the Palo Alto Winter Lodge tonight does not either. “I’ve gotten used to it, so I just ignore it,” Benton said. Ice skating is commonly associated with a stereotypical image: a bunch of girls twirling around in sparkly skirts. Like most stereotypes, this stems from some basis of the truth; but what about the skills, the difficulty, the countless hours of practicing the same jump or spin again and again and again? And who said ice skating is only for girls? The Palo Alto High School freshman, who first stepped on the ice when he was

three, is now a nationally ranked male figure skater. Every time Benton glides across the ice, he defies the misconception that figure skating is a girls-only sport, and continues to work his way to the top of the professional skating world. However in order for him to succeed, he must sacrifice time and energy, but never his passion for the sport. “If you decide to skate, don’t take it too seriously at first,” Benton said. “Make sure it’s what you want to do, because it’s a big time commitment. Have fun and get a good coach.” Over a year ago, Benton started training with his coach, Cherylynn Sebastian. Sebastian describes working with Benton as an honor. “Brian is a talented, driven, hard working athlete,” Sebastian said. “He is a very strong skater who’s jumping and spinning abilities come naturally to him.” Sebastian trains Benton at Ice Oasis in

BY KYLIE SLOAN PHOTOGRAPHS BY JULIA BENTON AND JOHN CHRISTOPHERSON

Redwood City. Although Benton is exceptionally talented, Sebastian still faces challenges when she coaches him; however, these challenges are not due to negative attributes in Benton’s skating. “It is challenging to work with him because he is such a versatile skater,” Sebastian said. “He is one of those rare skaters who is fearless and will try anything, no matter how difficult.” Benton’s schedule consists of practices before school at 6:45 AM, two days a week; and after school practices from 3:00 to 4:30 PM, four days a week. In addition to training at Ice Oasis, Benton skates at Winter Lodge in Palo Alto and Ice Land in Belmont. When Benton does not repetitively practice his routines, he strength trains off-ice, and attends jazz dance and Pilates classes. Benton’s older sister, Paly senior and fellow figure skater Julia, introduced

PROFILES Benton to this regimen when she sparked his interest in skating. “When I started taking lessons, Brian would come along,” Julia said. “He saw me skate and wanted to try it out for himself.” Competitively, Benton skates in the Men’s Intermediate Freestyle division. During the year, he usually skates in five or six local competitions in order to qualify for more serious venues. In October, Benton showcased his skills at the Central Pacific Regional Championships, placing fifth. Benton just missed the fourth place cut-off for Junior Nationals. “Brian really pulled himself together for the Regional Championships this year,” Sebastian said. “Brian managed to prepare for Regionals in addition to his rigorous schedule. Although Brian skates about an hour and a half at least each day, it is still not enough, however he really skated his ultimate best the day of Regionals.” Although Benton missed the cut this year, he qualified for Junior Nationals in 2007, and placed tenth. “That [2007] was my first year skating in that level [intermediate] and I skated pretty well,” Benton said. “I got a lot better after that competition though, my jumps got more consistent.” After Junior Nationals, Benton took a break from competitive skating mainly to improve his jumps, and returned to competition to skate at this year’s regional competition. Benton plans to develop his abilities even more in order to achieve his goals. “My goals for next year are to make it to Nationals and to skate well there,” Benton said. “In the future, I’d like to make it past the National level to Worlds or the Olympics, eventually.” On Benton’s future ambitions, his mom, Lynn, expresses confidence in him and believes that he will be able to accomplish these fast approaching dreams. “I think that these are great goals,” Mrs. Benton said. “They’re tough, but he’s a tough guy and if he works hard at it, I think it’s possible for him to achieve them.” Sebastian also believes that Benton can reach this level of competitive skating if he puts a great deal of effort and really commits himself to the sport. “He needs to be hungry for it,” Sebastian said. “Brian is still young, but at a good age to decide where he would like his skating to go and how far he will push himself to be the best.” In order to achieve his goals, Benton must perfect his skills. He repetitively practices his most complex, favorite skills such as double axles, currently his hardest trick, Russian split jumps and death drops. Sebastian believes that with Benton’s natural talent he will be able to make these tricks solid within the next couple of months. “I work my male skaters harder than my female skaters, especially since Brian is at the age where he is getting stronger and can jump with tremendous height and power,” Sebastian said. “Mentally, as a coach, he keeps me pushing the envelope to try new types of moves and spin combinations.” In addition to skating, Benton runs on Paly’s cross-country team and plans to do track and field this spring. In the last meet of the cross-country season, at Crystal Springs, he ran a three mile course in 19:41, an average pace of about 6:56 per mile. In track, Benton specializes in long jump, 200-meters and 400-meters.

THIN AIR Benton travels through the air into a flying sit spin. Although Benton lacks time to run, Cross-country and track coach Joe Ginanni sees skating as an asset to Benton’s skill. “Having a lot of different activities like skating takes away from valuable training runs and workouts,” Ginanni said. “On the other hand, his variety adds to his muscle strength and safeguards against running related overuse injuries.” Because of his skating commitment, Benton can only make it to three cross-country practices a week. In the future, Benton’s inability to fully commit to running could prevent him from reaching his full potential. “Next season, I’d love to see him out with the team every day and seize the opportunity to contribute as a scoring runner,” Ginanni said. “He is capable of being a great cross-country and track runner down the line. I’m here to facilitate that, but he needs to figure it out for himself. Either way, I expect him to do big things with either sport he eventually decides to focus on.”

PROFILES

Benton circles the rink before entering his double axle. His pick cracks against the ice as he propels himself into the air, completing two and a half full revolutions. He lobbies at his peak for no more than half a second, but appears to be in the air for much longer than that. Benton descends from the axle’s climax and gently compresses his knee to support his backwards landing onto one foot before returning to his speedy strides around the rink.

“ WATCHInG HIM IS nERvERACKInG SoMETIMES BE-

CAuSE HE GoES So fAST AnD THERE ARE SoME BIG fAllS AT TIMES,” MRS. BEnTon SAID. “BuT MoST of THE TIME IT’S REAlly ExCITInG To WATCH HIM.

”

Benton compresses his body as he begins his backwards entrance into a Russian split jump He once again challenges gravity as he jumps into the air. His body rotates to the side and his legs shoot out into a split as he reaches to touch his toes, then he draws his legs back down as his blade graces the ice in another backwards landing supported by a single skate.

“GuyS HAvE HARDER JuMPS

THAn GIRlS,” BEnTon SAID. “SInCE THEy ARE BIGGER, THEy ARE ExPECTED To Go HIGHER Too. THE SPInS ARE THE SAME BuT THERE ARE noT AS MAny flExIBIl-

”

ITy ElEMEnTS.

Benton prepares to enter into a death drop, a spin. As Benton gains momentum, he approaches the skill as he would a jump, but mid-air he transfers his weight from his right to his left foot. His left foot, supporting his entire body, strikes the ice and Benton drops towards the ground to begin a back-sit spin. His left knee tucks into his body as he spins and his right leg extends in front of him. He whirls through the air, and the rink blurs around him.

PROFILES Although Benton’s main focus is skating, simultaneous cross-country training benefits him as well. “Cross-country helps me stay in shape for skating,” Benton said. “It helps me build up my endurance and stamina for my routines.” Benton hopes to continue to build his endurance when he runs for Paly in the future, in addition to improving his times. Cross-country also frees him from seventh period P.E., which gives him more time to prepare for his 3:00 PM skating session. “If I didn’t do cross-country, I would probably have more time to practice,” Benton said. “But running helps me become less obsessed with skating.” Although others may perceive his busy schedule as stressful, tiring or overwhelming, that has not been the case for Benton. “I think it is a positive thing for him,” Mrs. Benton said. “Skating helps him practice good time management. It interferes sometimes when he wants to hang out with friends, but he has friends at the rink too.” Fellow Winter Lodge skater, junior Chiara Leifer, says that Benton is a much more intense skater than herself and always enjoys skating with him at the winter Lodge rink. “I don’t think boys should be afraid to try skating,” Leifer said. “Just because there are some graceful, girly aspects of it doesn’t mean it’s not just as difficult as football.” Not only did females introduce Benton to skating, but also male skaters that he grew up watching on television. “I watched skating on T.V. and there was this skater named Brian Boitano,” Benton said. “He is pretty famous, and our names are alike so I grew to like watching him.” The same first name and last initial is not all Benton has in common with Boitano; both stand at 5’11”, are from the Bay Area and represent Peninsula Skating Club at competitions. After Boitano retired from his Olympic

skating career, two-time National Champion Evan Lysacek became Benton’s new role model. “I like him because he’s kind of tall like I am, and not a lot of skaters are,” Benton said. “Also, his jumps are really big and he has a really exciting program.” Benton hopes to improve these elements in his own routines. In competitions, Benton skates both a short program, that includes four jumps,

“WHEn SKATInG To A PRoGRAM WITH MuSIC, BRIAn CAn InTERPRET HIS oWn ExCEPTIonAl SKATInG STylE AnD REAlly MAKE THE PRoGRAM HIS oWn,” SEBASTIAn SAID. and a long program, with six jumps. Both routines contain two spins, in addition to complex footwork patterns choreographed to CONCENTRATION Benton circles the ice and prepares instrumental music. to take off into an axle. “Brian is like a blank slate where he has the ability to skate to any kind of music,” SeFor now, Benton seems content skatbastian said. “If I had to choose his type ing, and still appreciates the simplicity that of skating style, it could either be a cool, drew him to the sport. jazzy, relaxed style or a very strong, sharp, “I think the main thing is that skating powerful style of skating.” is artistic and athletic,” Benton said. “It’s However, as Benton continues to pursue one of the few sports that is.” skating and become more serious about the As Benton continues his quest for sucsport, skating will start to dominate his life cess in figure skating, participating in a even more. He may have to sacrifice his sport less common for males is not an isactivities outside of skating, such as cross sue. For Benton it is about the skills, the country and track, in order to fit three hour talent, what he brings to the ice and trying skating sessions into his schedule. his hardest every time he steps on the ice. “The saying, ‘Live, Eat and Breathe “I don’t think that being a male figure skating’ is what Brian has to do in order skater affects Brian one bit,” Sebastian to reach this level of competitive skating,” said. “I think he enjoys that fact that he Sebastian said. has the abilities to be different.” <<<

PROFILE

leading the BoAt Coxswain Rachel Ersted sits at the front of the NorCal crew team’s boat, encouraging and leading her team to victory. BY SANA BAKSHI AND ALLISON SHORIN PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF RICHARD ERSTED s Palo Alto High School junior Rachel Ersted weaves her way through the packs of girls huddled together on the dock, dressed in uniforms, all from different states, she takes another drink of water and kicks a lone cicada bug off her shoe. Ersted and her team have trained all

year to become the best they can be, and have finally made it to US Rowing Jr. National Championships. Out of the 24 girls on the NorCal crew team, Ersted is the smallest. Her size makes her the ideal candidate for a coxswain, a coach on the water. She is

given the crucial responsibility of leading and encouraging her fellow teammates through every race. At the edge of the dock, she and her teammates board the boat and prepare for the race. But, instead of getting on with her teammates, she finds her spot at

MOTIVATION Ersted encourages her teammates as they move forward in a meet in April 2008. “I motivate the team,” Ersted said.

PROFILE the end of the boat and adjusts her microphone. “Nationals was the best crew experience,” Ersted said. “It was so cool to compete with the best teams around the country. It was cool to be away from home with the people you spend so much time with.” At the beginning of summer 2008, Ersted and the NorCal crew team flew to Harsh Lake in Cincinnati, Ohio for the US Rowing Jr. National Championships. All of the girls on the team had been undergoing excessive training, hours and hours of practice rowing. Ersted, on the other hand, prepared for such a high level of competition in a different way. Instead of lifting weights and rowing, Ersted, the team’s coxswain, studied the tapes of other Olympic teams and how they went about certain races and their strategies. “She prepared by trying to know everything she could about the opponents, the race plan, the course and the weather conditions,” Ersted’s coach Wayne Rickert said. Two thousand meters after, enduring the twists and turns of the course the Nor Cal Women’s Lightweight eight boat came in fifth place, finishing with a time of 7:07. “She is a leader, but at the same time she is the smallest girl on the team,” Rickert said. On NorCal’s club crew team, Ersted is its Varsity Eight coxswain. A Varsity Eight coxswain is the leader of the lightweight eight boats, which means that all people on the boat must be less than 130 pounds. “As a coxswain I do a lot more than people think,” Ersted said. “I steer the boat, I motivate the team, and I plan out and execute races and strategize.” Ersted started crew the summer before freshmen year. A year earlier at Stanford Sierra Camp, a family friend noted Ersted’s size and suggested that she try becoming a coxswain. “After a ‘learn-to-row’ day with the NorCal team during the spring of eighth grade, I liked it a lot,” Ersted said. “I also did one week of crew camp over the summer with the Palo Alto rowing club. Then I decided to join the Nor Cal team.” “I sleep, eat, breath and go to crew,” Ersted said. Ersted spends about 15 hours a week practicing and preparing for races. Though she often does not train and workout with the team, she practices her

ANTICIPATION Ersted awaits the US Rowing Jr. National Championships in midJune. “It was so cool to compete with the best teams around the country,” she said. strategies and plans ahead for every race she has coming up by herself. “I believe that it isn’t always what you say, but rather how you say it,” Ersted said. Ersted plays a large role in every regatta that her team competes in. Her practice schedule during a week consists of two morning practices, three after school and one on Saturday. “She has a solid work ethic,” Rickert said. “She doesn’t always need to be at

the workouts, but she always shows up. She doesn’t lose her fun-loving spirit.” After seeing her teammates everyday, Ersted feels like she has developed a family-like bond with them. “Crew is such a team incentive sport, it’s never just about one person,” Ersted said. “When your team wins, it’s not because of one person, and when your team doesn’t do that well, it’s not because of one person. You do everything as a team.”

PROFILE As the authority figure on a boat, Rachel finds the perfect balance between being a friend to her teammates, and being their leader. “The bond between the team is so strong that Rachel’s attitude on the water is natural,” teammate Amy Fudenberg said. “There is an understanding between her and the team. We never have any hard feelings when we get off the boat.” According to Ersted’s mom, Karen Ersted, Ersted really has no time for anything else but crew and school, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. “We never hear her complain about getting up at 4:30 AM for practice during the week,” Mrs. Ersted said. “Once she gets to practice with her friends, she’s happy.” Certain attributes and qualities come with being on a crew team, a sport that so heavily relies on a team. Having a role that requires Ersted to be a leader, she has adopted some of those qualities in her day-to-day lifestyle and work ethic. “She’s learned how to juggle many tasks in her life and rarely stresses out,” Mrs. Ersted said. “She’s seen that hard work and drive pay off.” Ersted’s passion for the sport motivates her to continue with the sport through high school and college. “She’s out there to win and is driven to have her boat compete at the highest level,” Mrs. Ersted said. “She has her sights on returning to the US Rowing Jr. National Championships next June.” After high school, Ersted hopes to be a coxswain for a Division I college program. “[Ersted] is one of the most highly sought after coxswains in the nation,” Rickert said. “She’s one of the best we have ever had.” <<<

LEADERSHIP Ersted sits at the front of the boat to lead the team to national victories.

Positions of an Eig ht boat (Racing shell) Stroke

Port

Coxswain Bow

Stern

Front 46

Bow

Starboard

Back

FEATuRES

The Floor General BY CHASE COOPER

Photography by Hana Kajimura

the midst of the summer heat, a 10 year old boy I npractices his jump shot while his father critiques his

follow-through and reminds him to always set his feet and stay on balance. The boy gladly takes in the advice, and utilizes his new-found knowledge in his next YMCA basketball game. This fifth-grade boy is now Palo Alto High School’s senior guard Nick Robinson. Today, Robinson continues to use those very same skills he learned from his father to stifle opposing defenses. Robinson has been a starter for the Palo Alto High School boys’ varsity basketball team since his sophomore year, and a staple at the point guard position. Robinson started playing basketball at the Palo Alto YMCA at a young age where he learned the fundamentals of the game, but most importantly, how to be a competitor and play with emotion. “I would always play with kids that were older than me, so I was forced to quickly learn the game,” Robinson said. “It taught me to have confidence in yourself and to never back down from anything or anyone.” His game improved exponentially every time he stepped onto the floor, and soon found himself as the leader of his JLS Middle School basketball team. “All the practicing I did when I was younger proved to be beneficial to me,” Robinson said. “I felt like I was a step ahead of everyone else on the court.”

After a disappointing 2008 season, senior point-guard Nick Robinson looks to lead his young squad into the post-season and beyond.

When Robinson was not playing for the JLS team, he was training with his NJB All-Net team to further improve on his game. “Playing All-Net was a great experience for me,” Robinson said. “It gave me a chance to play against better competition and improve.” As a freshman, Robinson was unable to show his true abilities, as he did not get as much playing time as he would have liked on the junior varsity team. “I was rather surprised at the little amount of playing time I got freshman year,” Robinson said. “I feel like I didn’t get a chance to

show people what I had.” Robinson finally got his chance at redemption when he was asked to play up with the varsity squad in various tournaments over the summer before his sophomore year. His precocious play caught the eye of then head coach Peter Diepenbrock, who rewarded Robinson with a roster spot the following season. “After watching Nick play in those tournaments over the summer, there was no doubt in my mind that he was ready to be a varsity basketball player,” Diepenbrock said.

FEATuRES Ever since Robinson set foot on campus, he had the itch to play varsity basketball. That summer made his dream a reality. “Playing with the varsity guys over the summer allowed me to experience basketball at the varsity level,” Robinson said. “I got a chance to show Coach Diepenbrock that I could play at that level.” Following his strong summer performance, Robinson not only played for Diepenbrock and the varsity team, but won the starting point-guard job by proving himself in practice. “I just always practiced hard and tried to show the coaches that I could really play,” Robinson said. “The hard work paid off when I got the starting job.” Only a sophomore, Robinson was forced to adjust quickly to the varsity level and perform at a high level night in and night out. “I guess you could say I was thrown into the fire,” Robinson said. “I had to learn the system quickly and there wasn’t much room for error.” Robinson impressed coaches throughout his sophomore campaign with his

composure and tenacity, and not letting the bright lights of varsity basketball overwhelm him. “Nick showed great toughness and competitiveness during his sophomore year,” Diepenbrock said. “He earned the respect of his teammates by playing hard at all times.” Robinson gained even more experience when he led the Vikings to a Central Coast Section (CCS) semifinal appearance, and subsequently earning all-league honors. “Making the playoffs that year gave me a lot more confidence,” Robinson said. “I realized that I was a leader on the floor, and proved to myself that I could really compete at this level.” Robinson followed up his rookie season with a junior season that was shortened due to the ineligibility of one of his reserve teammates. Despite losing the chance to compete in postseason play that year, Robinson learned how to manage a game, and how to lead both with his words and his character. “I feel like I lead both vocally and by

example,” Robinson said. “ I try my best to make all the right decisions with the ball and make sure everyone is doing their jobs on the floor.” As point guard, Robinson had the privilege of playing alongside then-senior scorers Mike Scott and Dom Powell, but was also presented with the unique challenge of distributing the ball equally among them, to make sure their talent was being utilized properly. “That season taught me a lot about myself as a player,” Robinson said. “I learned how to make players better around me.” Robinson stands at an undersized 5’ 8”, and weighs 160 pounds, but manages to overcome these physical deficiencies with his superior intangibles. He tributes his success on the court to his toughness, ability to compete, and passing ability. “I just love to go out there and compete,” Robinson said. “I do my best every night and play as hard as I can to get a win for my team.” The combination of Robinson’s desire to win and his superb athletic ability al-

THE STAREDOWN Robinson uses his superior speed and quickness to get by bigger defenders and play hard-nosed defense.

FEATuRES lows him to outperform players who may have a size advantage. “Nick may only be about 5’7”, but he has the heart of a guys who is 7’2.” Chris Weems Academy AAU head coach David Moselely said. “He makes up for his lack of size with his quickness and court vision.” Robinson’s strong-minded play has placed him at the top when it comes to point guards around the league. “Nick has really made a name for himself around the circuit,” Moseley said. “His will to win and passion for the game is unmatched.” Robinson uses his court vision to see the floor, and takes it upon himself to make sure that his teammates are all on the same page. “I just want to make sure that all my guys know where they are supposed to be,” Robinson said. “Our plays run more smoothly if everybody knows their role.” Although Robinson has established himself as a premier point guard, he has never been unwilling to take a step back and fine-tune his skills. “Nick is a very coachable player,” Diepenbrock said. “He is always willing to do whatever it takes to make himself an even better player.” LAYING IT IN Robinson goes in for a lay-up after a steal in the first home game this year.

DEADLY CROSSOVER Robinson uses his leadership qualities to lead the way for the Vikings. After losing last year’s leading scorer’s Powell and Scott to graduation, Robinson will have to carry the load in terms of offensive production. “Nick is going to be huge for us this year,” junior forward Kevin Brown said. “ He is undoubtedly the leader of this team.” Robinson uses his stellar passing ability to get the ball to the scorers on the team, and facilitate the offense. “He does a great job of getting the ball to his shooters,” head coach Andrew Slayton said. “he always makes good decisions with the ball.” Robinson’s superior play has caught the eye of many college recruiters around the west coast, leaving him with offers from Lewis and Clark University, University of California at Santa Cruz and Claremont McKenna College. “I think colleges like the way he plays with emotion,” Moseley said. “You can tell by watching him that he leaves it all on the court and is fearless.” The upcoming season will be a test for Robinson as he faces the challenge of putting points on the board, while also incorporating some of his younger but talented teammates. “This year will be unique because of the young team we have and the raw talent we have,” Robinson said. “My well-

rounded game will come in handy.” Aside from helping his teammates on the floor, Robinson also prides himself on being a good teammate, and providing them with someone to look up to. “I have seen a lot over the years and have learned a great deal from my past experiences,” Robinson said. “I feel like that will be of help to some of my younger teammates.” Robinson’s teammates have noticed that his tenacity and effort have rubbed off on some of the other players. “Nick’s intensity and focus has helped us a lot in practice,” junior guard Joseph Lin said. “[Robinson] helps us stay in line and get better as a team.” Robinson hopes to have a memorable senior season in an attempt to avenge last year’s disappointing finish. “Last year was extremely disappointing because we had so much talent that was wasted,” Robinson said. “Now we have a new group of guys, but I am still confident in what we can do.” Even though the experience on this year’s squad is noticeably absent, Robinson still believes that his squad can make a run at a CCS crown. “The sky is the limit for us,” Robinson said. “As long as we all go out there and play as a team, we are going to be tough to beat.” <<<

give and Take... The Viking’s own emily Fowler chats with teacher and Cañada basketball coach Peter diepenbrock. EF

How’s it going at Cañada so far?

Well, it’s going very well; in that it’s very invigorating to start a new challenge in your profession when you really didn’t anticipate that you were going to be having this. To have to learn a whole new level and, basically, a whole new job, at this point, is very cool. It’s not, you know, right now a winning program; it’s going to take a lot of time, but as far as the actually job it’s very good.

How’s it different from Paly?

Photo by Emily Fowler

Well, I would say that there’s just basically the inherent job with dealing with 19- 23 year old men versus you know 15, 16 ,17 year olds. Just, basically every discussion is just a little bit different, and that’s the main thing that jumps out. The other things, I only have to deal with one group versus three teams and gym time isn’t an issue as far as trying to schedule around different teams and things like that, you know a lot of little things like that. The basic difference is just dealing with much older kids.

Is it fun getting to know the new players?

Definitely. It’s just more of an adult relationship; they have other things going on with their lives, like they’re living on their own. So, there’s just a lot of other stuff involved, whereas normally with high school kids it’s school and basketball.

What’s your favorite part about coaching at Cañada?

I would say right now just kind of the idea that I am very much challenged, and it’s really forcing me to kind of rethink a lot of my ideas basketball wise, and just really forcing me to get better. When you do something for you know 11,12,13 years, you get certain routines and this is really forcing me to look at everything I do.

Have you been helping out this year or are you kind of trying to stay out of it?

Well, coach Andrew Slayton and I have been friends for a long time, so we talk and all that. But at the same time you know he wants it to be his deal. And I have to be aware of that, so I’ve been to a couple of their games just to talk to the guys a bit so I’m definitely keeping an eye on them.

Is there anything you want to say to the guys you didn’t get to coach this year?

I would just say that from what I’ve seen that I think they are doing very, very well and that they are playing very well together. I mean, it’s tough because obviously the group hasn’t been together yet because the football team just finished so now they’re gonna get three or four or five guys, so I guess the main thing is just beat Gunn.

How’s your son doing?

PD EF

What do you miss the most about Paly basketball?

I would say I just miss the high school atmosphere. In that, I mean something that always basically drew me to high school in the first place, just the spirit and enthusiasm and intensity of the high school experience. So, it is definitely a different atmosphere at the junior college level; so that’s what I would say I miss the most.

Oh, he’s doing great! He’s about to turn three, and he’s talking up a storm and yeah, he’s doing well.

Any final words?

Just, you know that I’m up at Cañada, but I spend half of my days here and Palo Alto High School is still definitely a big part of who I am and what I do every day. And even though I’m not coaching the basketball team, I’m still a fan, like I’ve gone to the football games this year, so I’m still a big Paly fan.

making the

cut by malaika drebin

design by noah sneider photography by malaika drebin and hana kajimura photo model: joey christopherson (‘12)

ormer Paly wrestler Cooper Newby comes home from wrestling practice exhausted and drenched in sweat. Though his stomach roars in protest, he refuses dinner and tries to get started on his homework. But as hard as he struggles to focus, thoughts keep circling in his head. How much more does he have to lose? Will he be able to eat tomorrow? What if, after all his work, he doesn’t make weight? His head is reeling from hunger, and his mouth is dry, desperately in need of water. Groggily Newby gets up, steps onto the scale and glares, frustrated, at the glowing number: 139. Fighting to keep his eyes open, he layers on every pair of sweats he owns and laces up his running shoes. It’s nine o’ clock the night before weigh-in day, and he still needs to lose four more pounds to compete. This scene is a familiar one for many wrestlers. In a sport where a few pounds determine success, wrestlers live by the scale. The objective is to make it into the lowest weight class possible while maximizing strength, so that every pound of weight can be used to overpower the competitor. Wrestlers prefer to be the heaviest and strongest in a low weight class, rather than carry excess weight and be weak in comparison to the larger, sinewy opponents of higher weight classes. Wrestlers also cut weight because, on a team, one’s weight class may determine whether they can compete. “If there are two people in the same weight class, only one of them gets to compete,” Paly senior wrestler Noah Feldstein said. “Some guys see it as either being able to wrestle or not, so it does give some people that motivation to cut.” While wrestlers like Feldstein admit cutting weight is tough, they see it as being a necessary evil of the sport. “It’s a discipline thing; it’s a lifestyle,” Paly wrestling alum and 2007 California State second place finisher John Hall said. Hall compares it to football, which

he also played at Paly. Besides the grueling practices and demanding physical matchups that characterize both sports, wrestlers have the additional burden of having to constantly watch their weight. “It’s one of the few sports that really controls your life, and success is all about whoever wants it,” Hall said. Hall, who now competes in Division I wrestling as a sophomore at Boston University, knows well what extreme weight cutting is like. Last year, Hall competed in the ASICS University National Championships, an offseason college tournament. Hall wrestled at 197 pounds during the regular season, but

on protein and water, his breakfast consisting of 12 egg whites and leafy green vegetables. His lunch and dinner menus were limited to cuts of lean white meat and dark green salads. Hall also took vitamins and constantly flooded his body with water to prevent the dreaded prospect of dehydration. After all his hard work, Hall still had three pounds to lose on the day of the weighin, which was a day before competition started. He threw

“[Wrestling] is one of the few sports that really controls your life, and success is all about whoever wants it...” - John Hall (‘07) in this tournament, he had to choose between weight classes of 185 or 211 pounds. “I decided to cut to 185 because I’d wrestle smaller guys, but I was worried because if I hit 184 lbs, I would have two pounds of fat on me, and it’s not safe to have that little. I just wanted to see if I could do it.” Having gained a few pounds from offseason lifting, Hall was faced with the challenge of losing 20 pounds by the tournament weigh-in, which was only two weeks away. At practices, Hall wrestled in three layers of clothes: his usual t-shirts and shorts, now worn under thermals, sweatpants and bulky sweatshirts. Three hours of conditioning and being thrown to the ground by his teammates were not enough to lose the weight he wanted, so Hall ran and lifted weights after every practice, trying to keep up a sweat and maintain his muscle mass at the same time. Hall’s diet was restricted to the bare essentials of nutrition, but in large quantities to sustain him through his exhausting exercise regimen. Hall relied almost entirely

on two layers of sweats and ran and conditioned intensely until he sweated off the weight remaining. Hall then stepped onto the scale, 20 pounds lighter than he had been just 14 days before. “It’s rough, and sometimes I have a love-hate relationship with wrestling, but it teaches you a lot, and it’s worth it,” Hall said. Although Hall’s experience occurred at the highly competitive college level, high school wrestlers at Paly have put themselves through similar situations in order to achieve their desired weight by competition day. Senior Patrick Sheehan remembers a particularly grueling cut he made in the summer of his junior year. The day before weigh-in for

the Cadet Freestyle National Tournament, Sheehan realized he was nine pounds over his desired weight class of 130 pounds. “It was the biggest drop I’ve done,” Sheehan said. “I ended up making it, but I never drop that much anymore. It [wrestling] gets pretty tiring when you don’t have any fuel.” Sheehan observes that wrestlers with the biggest goals tend to cut most often. “Generally if you’re not very good, you’re not going to be cutting a lot of weight,” Sheehan said. “It’s the guys who are trying to be the best that do the extreme stuff. Paly varsity coach David

nia see the sport in a completely different light. “California has its big wrestling communities, like the Clovis area, where the kids are really motivated to cut,” Duran said. Among the more ambitious wrestlers, the pressure to cut can lead to unhealthy and potentially dangerous methods of weight loss. Newby, now a freshman at Colorado School of Mines, gave in to the damaging habit while wrestling at 135 pounds at Paly. “I used to cut weight the bad way, starving myself the night before and dehydrating myself sophomore year, but I realized I was actually doing worse in competition because I was so weak,” Newby said. “I once dropped eight pounds in 12 hours, and that was hell. I wrestled terribly the next day, so I never did that again.” Although Newby has never suffered any

“I once dropped eight pounds in 12 hours, and that was hell. I wrestled terribly the next day, so I never did that again...” - Cooper Newby (‘08) Duran agrees. “Some kids have higher goals, like going to states,” Duran said. “They have a different view of weight than the beginning wrestlers, who are just there to have fun.” Duran is aware that some Paly wrestlers choose to cut weight, but does not see it as a serious health concern. However, Paly coaches do advocate proper hydration and nutrition. “Dropping weight is completely up them,” Duran said. Although Paly wrestling encourages healthiness over reaching the right weight class, other areas of Califor-

serious consequences as a result of excessive weight cutting, he has seen the effects on other people. “When I was wrestling in North Carolina, my friend and I went on a run to lose the last few pounds,” Newby said. “He had been cutting unhealthily, so he stopped halfway through to walk back. The coaches found him a few minutes later on the ground almost passed out because all of his muscles had cramped up from dehydration.” At the college level, Hall attributes his teammates’ serious weight cutting tendencies to the greater level of intensity. “At Division I, wrestling is like a job,” Hall said. “They expect that you will get to your weight, and they’re paying you to be there. You can’t just walk in and ask your coach if it’s okay if you make weight sometime next week. It’s your responsibility to get into your

weight class so the team can earn points.” With so much pressure, Hall’s teammates often resort to unhealthy methods to lose the weight. “There are guys on the team that will cut 20 pounds and gain it all back in a week sometimes, if they’re not doing it right. You see them and they’re so tired that they’re just not happy, and their faces are white and their eyes are all sunken in.” Carolyn Wester, a wrestling nutrition specialist in Palo Alto who works with high school and college wrestlers, including the

then binge on junk, who get these bulimic tendencies.” Damage from continuous unhealthy weight cutting can become much more severe. Wester witnessed an uncommon, yet devastating case with a nationally ranked high school wrestler. He had frequently been starving himself to reach the lightest weight class, and signs of his deteriorating health were beginning to appear. “At one tournament he had hung out with us, and when we went to dinner, he passed out on the side of the road, all cramped up,”

“It’s a healthy sport. People think too many wrestlers are cutting unhealthily, but it’s usually not a big percentage...” - Patrick Sheehan (‘09) -

UC Davis team, stresses that irresponsible weight cutting can have disastrous results. “These kids suck so much weight out of them that the ability to rehydrate doesn’t occur,” Wester said. “Some people don’t know how to regain the energy, so they keep using these unhealthy methods. There are definitely the kids who starve themselves and

Wester said. “We picked him up and put him in the car, and he refused to take in any water. We rubbed out his cramps, but he still hadn’t had any water, and he wrestled terribly.” Several months later at a match, a serious injury ended the malnourished wrestler’s season.

“He was doing a simple beginner move with no real strain, and during the move one of the major bones in his body shattered,” Wester said. Details about the injury have been withheld to protect the identity of the wrestler. “When he got to the hospital, the doctors said he had the bones of an 80 year old woman,” Wester said. Sports medicine orthopedic surgeon Dr. Frank Chen at Palo Alto Medical Foundation asserted that injuries like these result from conditions brought on by malnutrition and dehydration. According to Dr. Chen, cutting a large amount of weight too quickly affects muscle performance and can lead to

musculoskeletal injuries. Without the right nutrition, protein levels go down, hurting an athlete’s strength and power and leaving them more susceptible to injury. “There is a point where the body is so malnourished that it begins to break down muscle, and if this happens excessively it can lead to nausea, confusion, heart arrhythmias, shock, and even comas,” Dr. Chen said. Additionally, Dr. Chen rhabdomyolysis, a condition which results from excessive muscle breakdown and causes muscle fiber contents to be released into the bloodstream, potentially causing kidney damage.

Besides the health threat that serious weight cutting poses, the wrestlers’ constant battle to make it into the right weight class often leads to burnout. “In my time wrestling and coaching, I could name 200 kids who just didn’t want to cut anymore,” Duran said. “Again, in big wrestling communities especially, the kids motivate themselves so much to cut, and then they don’t continue on with the sport in college, because they’re tired of all the work from wrestling after four years.” Hall stated that the potential for burnout is wrestling’s only downfall. “So many people burn out, and it’s so easy to do it,” Hall said. “Especially at Division I in college, everyone’s been wrestling since

As a sophomore constantly cutting weight, he wrestled at 119 pounds. Two years later, as a senior, he wrestles at 160 pounds. “Weight cutting is not fun, but outside of that I love everything about wrestling,” Sheehan said. “It’s a healthy sport. People think too many wrestlers are cutting unhealthily, but it’s usually not a big percentage.” For a sport that is so physically and men-

ginning of the season, wrestlers are tested for sufficient hydration by a urine sample, and their body fat is measured using a bioelectrical impedance analysis scale, called the Tanita scale. Duran notes that the regulations have helped prevent losing wrestlers to fatigue. “The hydration test says how low you can go, and no lower,” Duran said. “It keeps more kids wrestling because they’re not

“There is a point where the body is so malnourished that it begins to break down muscle...” - Dr. Frank Chen (pamf orthopedic surgeon) -

they were about five, and they have been cutting weight since they were really little. There are plenty of All-American, nationally ranked kids who just want to have a life outside of the constant cutting and pressure, even after they’ve started wrestling in college. They just get so exhausted and they’re not feeling it anymore.” Such was the case with Sheehan last year. “As far as wanting to continue wrestling in college, it might have been an issue last year with all the burnout,” Sheehan said. “But I stopped cutting a lot of weight because it was tiring me out so much, so it [burnout] wouldn’t be an issue for me now.”

tally exhausting, stigmatized as unhealthy, and known for trouble with high burnout rates, regulations are necessary to combat wrestling’s bad reputation and ensure the athletes’ safety. Much of the increased healthiness of weight cutting in wrestling can be attributed to strict weight and hydration guidelines. California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) regulations state that male wrestlers must maintain at least seven percent body fat, and female wrestlers, 12 percent. At the be-

burnt out from weight cutting.” Wester, providing a different prospective, stated that the hydration tests do a great job to curb malnutrition and dehydration, but would be even more beneficial if the tests were required at every weigh-in, instead of only once at the beginning of the season. However, she said that the expenses required to run hydration tests make the idea not financially feasible. Dr. Chen claimed that other factors besides the hydration test have been making

wrestling a safer and healthier sport. “There’s more education at the high school and college levels,” Dr. Chen said. “The coaches know more about the dangers of weight cutting, and they teach the wrestlers better.” Wrestlers who have gone through Paly agree that weight cutting is not as hazardous due to greater emphasis on safety. “I don’t think cutting is a threat at all anymore,” Newby said. “Coaches never tell kids they have to wrestle at any weight, it’s all up to the individual. And with all the tests and nutritional information now it’s pretty safe. If you

“It’s tough as hell, but I know that everything I do pays off. When I win, it’s me winning, and no one else. There’s no better feeling.” - John Hall (‘07) figure out how to eat right, cutting does not have to be torture.” Sheehan agrees that Paly coaches have stressed enjoying the sport rather than worrying about cutting weight. “We want our wrestlers to get bigger-they’re boys, not men, and they’re still growing,” Duran said. “It’s hard enough getting kids to play, so we don’t want them to worry so much about their weight.” With all of the extraordinary demands of wrestling, it’s easy to wonder why wrestlers choose to stay with the sport. For them, the gratification of a win far outweighs the struggle of cutting weight. “It’s tough as hell, but I know that everything I do pays off,” Hall said. “I can’t explain it-when I win, it’s me winning, and no one else. There’s no better feeling.” <<<

Behind the

Photos For this issue’s cover story, The Viking photo staff experimented with unique photography methods to help illustrate the story of wrestling, and the sacrifices that go along with it. Always eager to create eye-catching spreads for our readers’ enjoyment, we expanded our photographic horiTHE zons this issue by using creative lighting and projected images.

bACKDROP

We wanted to convey both the idea of wrestling as a lifestyle, and the effects of weight cutting on the body. Projected images such as the scale, the skeleton and the wrestler across Joey Christopherson’s chest helped us create the symbolism we were looking for. To get the pictures from the computer screen to the models’ bodies, we used an LCD projector and adjusted the lighting to create intense THE shadows and maintain the integrity of the projected photo.

SETUP

The egg sequence was one of the hardest to shoot, and a very abstract concept. We decided to use eggs because, as John Hall mentioned, eggs are a staple of the weight cutter’s diet. We went through half a dozen eggs trying to achieve the perfect shot of a yolk bursting from its shell. After a number of failed attempts resulting in a yolk-covered Charlie Avis, we finally got it right. It only took us 204 shots and a mountain of paper towels. None of this would have been possible without the help of our tech expert, Noah Sneider, photography mentor Bob Drebin, and our models, Joey Christopherson and Charlie Avis. Many thanks to Woj for letting us use THE her room as our studio.

EGG

We would also like to extend an apology to Joey and Charlie, whom we forced to flex for hours on end and stand still despite being sprayed down with saltwater. Joey - our offer about the senior cheerleaders at your next match still stands. And Charlie-suck it up, we know you loved every second of it. If you’re interested in learning more about the shoot, visit voice.paly.net.

ZOOM Senior Elizabeth Petit goes into a hard tackle with a Gilroy player in a game on November 19th. The Vikings tied this match 1-1. As of January 14th Paly shares 1st place with rival Los Altos. Photo Credit: Malaika Drebin

DAY

9 16 23 2

at St. Francis Tourney at Sierra Nevada Classic

at Sacred Heart (3:30)

at Los Altos (6:45)

at Carlmont (4:10) Winter Classic Tourney

Boys’ Basketball Girls’ Basketball Boys’ Soccer

Girls’ Soccer Wrestling

at James Lick Tourney at St. Ignatius (6:00)

at James Lick Tourney` Winter Classic Tourney

vs Wilcox (7:30)

at James Lick Tourney Winter Classic Tourney

at Homestead Tourney Winter Classic Tourney

at Santa Clara (3:30)

at St. Francis (6:00)

at Gunn (5:30) vs Mtn. View (7:00) at Homestead Tourney at Menlo-Atherton (Dual)

at Saratoga (6:45)

at Rocklin Tourney vs Gunn (3:30) at Homestead (3:30) at Coast Classic

at Rocklin Tourney vs Milpitas (Dual)

at Los Gatos (6:45) vs Los Altos (5:30)

24 3 at St. Francis Tourney at Sierra Nevada Classic

vsGunn (6:45)

at Monta Vista (3:30) vs Monta Vista (3:30)

FeBruArY SUN

8 15

at St. Francis Tourney

Cupertino Tourney at Homestead Tourney at Peninsula Invitational

vs Riordan (6:00)

at Rocklin Tourney at Coast Classic

at St. Francis Tourney

at Menlo-Atherton (7:00) at Cupertino

The Last Word Second Thoughts... by Oliver Davies The clock reads 4:24. Four minutes, 24 seconds into the most painful run of my life. 36 seconds left. 36 seconds to break five minutes in the mile. If all the sub-five minute milers in America were to come together to promote breaking this difficult milestone, I have a feeling I might just be the spokesman for their campaign. I can almost see it now, big billboards and posters put up all over cities, buses and sports arenas with a picture of me, with a big caption underneath reading, “If he can do it, anyone can!” I am a runner, but by no stretch of the imagination do I consider myself elite. I haven’t been blessed with a body like Usain Bolt or Steve Prefontaine, but I’ve ran crosscountry for the last four years, and have made do with my God-given talent (or lack thereof.) As this year’s season came to a close, I decided I would aim to do what I never thought possible, and judging by the gaping expression on the faces of my peers, what they never thought possible either: breaking five minutes in the mile. With a team of seniors, (plus one cocky junior Varun Kohli,) I warmed up that fateful Wednesday, aware that whether or not I broke five minutes, I’d either fail embarrassingly, or pass out on the track, unable to revel in my glory. Conditions were perfect. The temperature was around 60 degrees, no wind. The fans packed the stands to cheer us on. In retrospect, they might have been there for the soccer game: it’s still unclear. As runners lined up on the track, the silence was unbearable. Before I knew it, the watch had started, and there we were, 200 meters into the most painful 1600 meters of my life. If everything went according to plan, adrenaline would take me a lap into the race, while the last three would be dependent on guts and pain tolerance. So why was it hurting already thirty seconds in? Panic hit me like an egg on Freshman Friday. Thoughts like “Should I just get it over with and drop out now?” and “This could be a bigger fail than Michigan’s football season,” went racing through my head. Considering I had organized the race, I now had a pack of angry runners going after not only the five-minute mile, but me as well. Like a bad dream that wouldn’t end, I found myself at the end of the first lap, 3/4 of a mile left. My quadriceps were ripping apart as I strained through the first lap. The pack

pushed on. I focused on sticking with proper mechanics and kept telling myself that in less than four minutes, I would be home free. Jeff Billing, Paly’s former boys’ cross-country coach, used to repeat one thing throughout his infamous motivational speeches: your body can handle so much more than your mind believes. Herein lays the motivation of running, of stressing the body far past the peak of exhaustion: to see whether you can break the body-mind disconnect. Two laps in, I honestly thought I could. Pain moved past my legs and engulfed my entire body. The pack was falling apart, but I didn’t dare turn around fearing what lay behind may only discourage my efforts to move forwards. Regardless, I pushed on. In miler’s folklore, the third lap serves to destroy every personal record, every shot at glory, and provide an immeasurable amount of pain before the final adrenaline rush kicks in at the finish. I strove to push on the third lap, but found myself helplessly slipping away from the steady pacer, cross-country coach John Welsh, as I closed in on the last 600 meters, one and a half laps left. I had all but given up on my hopes of breaking five as the fourth and final lap came around. I knew it would take a miracle. 300 meters left and my legs were numb. Then, as I passed the halfway point, with half a lap left, my coach screamed “36 seconds left!” 36 seconds. Just like that, the dream was once again alive. In those 200 meters, I don’t think I’ve ever tried harder. With 100 meters left, the race became an all out sprint. Desperately trying to catch the lead man, I’ve almost got him. Five seconds. Four seconds. This is my last shot. I sprint, no, I tumble, I collapse, through the finish line. Lying on the ground, with my heart pounding like it might just give up and stop altogether, the timer reads the final time from his watch:

Panic hit me like an egg on Freshman Friday. Thoughts like “Should I just get it over with and drop out now?” and “This could be a bigger fail than Michigan’s football season,” went racing through my head.

5:01.

Did you miss the last issue of The Viking? No problem, just visit voice.paly.net today to catch up on everything you missed!

Sports, Orthopedic And Rehabilitation Medicine Associates M id Peni n sul a 5 0 0 Arguello Street, S u i te 100 R e dwood Ci t y, C A 94063- 1526 Te le p hone 650.851. 1202 Fa x 650.995.1202 S o ut h B ay 5 5 0 S. Wi nc he s ter Bl vd. S u i te 110 S an Jos e, C A 95128- 2544 Te le p hone 408.247. 4900 Fa x 408.249.4900 w w w.s oar me di c al. co m

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