The male athlete spotlight goes to Mateo ’28.
Mateo has been a part of the boys' varsity soccer team since his freshman year, and immediately made an impact. Now, as a captain, Mateo is a leader and key part of the team. This past week, he led the team to two wins to start their season.
On Sept. 13, Mateo had an impressive performance, scoring all three goals for the team and defeating Watkinson. Mateo, who plays striker, is the main part of the boys' offense. He was constantly on the attack, looking to capitalize on any mistake the opposing team made.
Then, in a big win against Harvey on Sept. 16, Mateo again proved why he is named captain. He united the team and reminded everyone about how their season ended last year. Coming off of an HVAL loss to Harvey in the final, everyone played with determination to win.
The boys started the game on the attack, looking to send a message to Harvey and any opponents in the future. In the 15th minute, Henry ’28 drew a foul and earned a free kick deep in their opponent's half. Mateo stepped up and played a quick ball to Nathan ’29 to put the boys up 1-0. The game then became a stalemate until late in the second half, when Mateo broke through the opposing defense and crossed the ball to Will ’27, who buried it to put the boys up 2-0 and seal the game.
“Going to HVAL finals twice in a row and losing both is something I don’t want to experience again,” Mateo said. “I am going into every single game this year with hope to lift the trophy up at the end of the season.”
Congratulations, Mateo!
The boys soccer team’s next home game is Sept. 23 vs. Forman.
The female athlete spotlight goes to Lily ’27, a dedicated and vital member of the Girls Varsity Volleyball team.
Lily first started on the team in middle school, and now, as a senior, four years later, has shown immense growth. She shows up to every game or practice with a great deal of enthusiasm, is always willing to take feedback to improve her skill, and is constantly supportive of all of her teammates.
Lily’s biggest strength on the court is her ability to effectively block. Throughout the course of the season, her blocks have continued to improve, as well as her placement and how she makes smart and thoughtful decisions.
“There is nothing better in a match than when Lily gets a big block,” said Mr. Carone. “The joy on her face is priceless.”
On Thursday, Sept. 10, Girls' Varsity Volleyball played Hamden Hall, where Lily had a powerful block, known as a “monster block,” against the opponent's middle hitter, who was dominating the whole game. Team Captain Lucy ’27 highlighted how Lily had to face her the entire game, never giving up and maintaining dedication.
Lily's impact on the team goes far beyond her performance in games. She is always able to uphold a positive attitude, even if the team is not winning, and is constantly cheering her teammates on. Her continuous motivation and sense of humor make her an extremely valuable and high-spirited teammate.
As a senior, Lily serves as a mentor for the younger players, always lending them a helping hand and encouraging them to do their best.
Congratulations, Lily! Keep up the great work!
The next home volleyball game is on Sept. 18 vs. Cheshire Academy.
Crosby '27
Advanced Journalism
Yiorgos '27
Advanced Journalism
