ADDISON COUNTY INDEPENDENT Spring SPORTS REPORT THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2020

Teams and seniors: What might have been By ANDY KIRKALDY been hopeful their athletes have a chance to enjoy conversations with coaches this spring were Sports writers like to call their sections the “Toy their sports? both heartwarming and heartbreaking about Department.” Most recently I came across that As it turned out, the Vermont Principals’ what sports meant to them and the athletes. reference in a Boston Globe piece by longtime Association finally made its decision on April 30: A couple examples should help sum up. columnist Dan Shaughnessy. There will be no season. I’ve known Tiger girls’ lacrosse coach In many ways it’s hard to argue with that It was a sad, but ultimately inevitable choice Brandi Whittemore since she was a description. with which the editors and I agree. Even with the freshman teammate of my older daughter, There are days — on the sidelines of a game on success Vermonters have seen so far in containing a 2010 MUHS graduate. I’ve watched her a sunny fall day at Mount COVID-19 the risks remain too great. mature into a poised young woman, and Abraham with foliage at its Even before the VPA’s decision we had largely now she credits her high school and Castleton peak, in a packed Vergennes made the assumption there would be no season for State College sports experience for boosting her gym for a rivalry hoop game, our Spring Sports Report. It mostly focuses on the character and thriving career. listening to the Otter Valley seniors who are losing their final chance to enjoy We talked about sports teaching her the value pep band rock the House of their sports and teammates. This section foregoes the of teamwork, preparation to achieve goals, and Noise, or hearing the Doc usual team photos, rosters and schedules. discipline. Brandi told me she brought up what Collins Field crowd roar as Instead it will look at what all the coaches agreed she learned from her team sports background in a Middlebury running back upon: Most athletes, especially seniors, had worked every job interview she has ever had. breaks into the open — when hard for this season; those athletes, especially And while all the coaches talked about what it’s hard to believe this is the seniors, are being deprived of reaping the the seniors are missing this spring, Brandi and work. rewards of their preparation; and they had already Mount Abe softball coach Donnie McCormick But the description isn’t learned valuable lessons from what they had done took it one step further: Younger athletes are also really fair, and not just individually and collectively to prepare for their losing out the chance to learn from their senior because afterward I hit the seasons. teammates, they said. keyboard. Sports matter. Now let’s turn back “I know the heart and the leadership from our I’m not going to compare for a moment to the seniors would have helped our young pitchers the value of sports to the larger lessons of sport. thrive,” Donnie told me. job educators do, especially Again, they So, yes, sports sections are Toy Departments. But now that they are facing the should not be educators will tell you that toys help kids learn. challenges of remote learning and supplying meals. overstated. Here’s to the senior athletes. While we’re all Or to the work now being done by healthcare But my sorry about what they and their teammates have lost providers, grocery store workers, first responders — this spring, we also celebrate what they have all those on the front lines of a pandemic. accomplished in their high school years and But athletics have value, and not only for their know they will ability to entertain and unite many of us. accomplish so Before that discussion, let’s backtrack a much more. bit. About the same time that Shaughnessy piece came out I began interviewing coaches for this 2020 Independent Spring Sports Report. There was hope, however slim, that a semblance of a spring season could be salvaged when those interviews were conducted. The stories about the Photos by Steve James, Mark Bouvier, teams in this special section reflect the fact that coaches were uncertain about whether their teams Angelo Lynn and Russell Jones would or could compete; certainly some were more optimistic than others, and why shouldn’t they have PAGE 2C — SPORTS REPORT • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 7, 2020 MIDDLEBURY UNION HIGH SCHOOL

Schoen reported enthusiastic called “one of the top sprinters in participation in remote preseason Division II.” Garner placed in both BOYS’ Zoom meetings and workouts. He the 100 and 200 in at the D-II state added plans for summer tennis meet 2019, and ran the 4x100 relay. TENNIS were also well received, including • Hunter Heffernan, second in a Nerf-ball tournament to entertain the D-II in the 300-meter hurdles Tennis sometimes flies under the Project Independence attendees at in 2019 and “a key member of our school sports radar, but the most Elderly Services Inc. 4x100 relay,” Blechner said. successful team at MUHS in spring “We discussed the reality of • Isabel Olson, who qualified 2019 was Coach Ken Schoen’s and remote possibility of a half for both the 2018 and 2019 New boys’ tennis squad, which finished season, and the more likely, if still England meets at 800 meters. with a 12-3 record that included a not a guarantee, of a possibility of “She was really looking forward first-round D-I playoff victory. a summer July or August tennis to having a big year at 800, 1,500 Many of the athletes who helped tournament, both at the Rec Park and the 4x400. She would have the Tigers to that mark last year and at Elderly Services,” Schoen been on the verge of some big return, including four seniors said. “This possibility was uplifting breakthroughs,” Blechner said. who were regular members of the to the boys.” • Annie Lapiner, who Blechner nine-man lineup: Spencer Doran, And if the Tigers could have said was improving in the Hunter Munteanu, Joseph Findlay taken to the courts this spring? 100-meter hurdles each year and and Eben Jackson. “My prediction, had we had a “looked to make big strides this Schoen expected Doran and season, is we would have another year.” Munteanu, each of them four-year winning season,” Schoen said. • Will Carpenter, who Blechner veterans, to occupy the top two “I think we have a nice depth of said “would contribute in many spots of the five-man singles ladder. ability, and the boys would have/ different running events and Findlay and Jackson, Schoen said, will do well.” possibly pole vault.” would have either competed for the • Peter Wolosinski, who finished TIGER SPRINTER VIVIANA Hammond in a 100-meter heat at a 2019 meet at Middlebury College races Nos. 3 through 5 spots or teamed (See MUHS, Page 3C) to the finish line just ahead of Commodore Rhode Miguel. up to form a formidable doubles Independent file photo/Steve James unit. TRACK Three more seniors showed up for the first time this spring: Owen Palcsik, Liam Hamilton, and David & FIELD Peters — all teammates of the other This spring was not only to be tennis seniors on the successful the swan song for the seniors on Tiger boys’ soccer team. the MUHS track and field team, MUHS Senior Athletes 2020 “I don’t know anything about but also for their head coach, Ed their skill levels, but I’m glad to Blechner. Track & field Phoebe Smith Maeve Hammel Gwen Stafford have them on the team,” Schoen Blechner had assisted the Tiger Will Carpenter Grace Tucker Alexis Huestis said. “They each report playing program and before then the tennis and liking the sport.” Champlain Valley team for many Gabe Cason Ultimate Whether Findlay and Jackson years before taking over as head Anthony Garner Boys’ tennis Catherine Schmitt BOYS LACROSSE: played doubles might have coach of the MUHS squad several Hunter Heffernan Spencer Doran Kamrin Bartlett depended on whether Schoen years back. Now at age 72 he said decided to break up the top doubles he was ready to hand over the reins Annie Lapiner Joseph Findlay Baseball Eli Billings team of juniors Abel Anderson and at the conclusion of this season. Isabel Olson Eben Jackson Nick Carrara Hunter Gale Andy Giorgio. “This was going to be my last Michelle Skovsgard Hunter Munteanu Hale Hescock Ezekiel Hooper “Andy and Abel were our first year coaching. This certainly doubles team for the past two wasn’t how I wanted it to end,” Peter Wolosinski Owen Palcsik Devon Kearns James Jette years, and the question to solve is Blechner said. “I wanted it to be a Liam Hamilton Ryan Nadeau Ian Ploof whether to have them play singles good one. My heart goes out to the Girls’ lacrosse David Peters Trysten Quesnel or continue on as a successful seniors.” Ileigh Aube SOFTBALL: Thatcher Trudeau doubles team,” Schoen said. “They Blechner had high expectations played probably 20 matches over for a number of those seniors, Katie Berthiaume Girls’ tennis Addison Hubbell Jacob Webber two years, and I think lost only one including: Kelsey Buteau Ellie Kiel Sydney Ethan Kent or two.” • Gabe Cason, who tied for Alice Ganey Isadora Luksch Provencher Also set for doubles was the second in the Division II pole returning team of juniors Aiden vault a year ago and, according to Cole and Oliver Poduschnick, and Blechner is “also a key component Schoen expected junior veteran of the 4x100 meter relay team, as Karic Riche to round out the well as a sprinter and long jumper.” starting lineup. • Anthony Garner, who Blechner On or off the field, court or track, we’ll be cheering for you in all of your life pursuits! SPORTS REPORT • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 7, 2020 — PAGE 3C MIDDLEBURY UNION HIGH SCHOOL

hit in the middle of the order, sway on the side of caution. You’d Messenger expected Nadeau to Middlebury and Rheaume said her preseason better be safe than sorry,” she said. start at second base and Carrara thinking was to bat her senior “It’s just really hard for these girls to return at first base, with Nadeau mainstay in the cleanup spot. that have worked hard and played moving to first when Carrara took (Continued from Page 2C) Despite the fact that Stafford is summer ball and worked hard for the mound. Hescock played second sixth in the D-II shot put last an outstanding center fielder, there four years to get where they are, a year ago, but shifted to shortstop year, and according to Blechner a was no hesitation in saying that the and don’t get to play their senior when needed and would start there candidate for the 4x100 relay team. hard-throwing Stafford would have year.” this year when not pitching. • Michelle Skovsgard, whose been the team’s No. 1 hurler. Messenger said underclassman participation was uncertain, but “She’s going to be my horse,” Avery Austin Neil and Milo who took third in the D-II javelin Rheaume said. BASEBALL Thomas Gordon would also have in 2019. The team has other seniors who A number of key players found their way into the lineup, Younger athletes who contributed are expected to play major roles graduated from Coach Charlie with Gordon probably also during the D-II meet a year ago and provide intangibles. Messenger’s 2019 Tiger baseball pitching. included Hannah Turner and Natali Sydney Provencher would team, one that compiled a The Tigers had moved from Sullivan, who joined Olson on the start at third base and bat in the respectable .500 record that Division I to D-II this year, and 4x400 team that placed in D-II a middle of the order, possibly one included a win over D-II champion given their solid record vs. D-II year ago. Turner also finished just spot ahead of Stafford, while Fair Haven. competition in the past few off the podium in the 400. Addison Hubbell would start at One memory that stuck with seasons Messenger expected Blechner wishes he could have either catcher or second base and Messenger from a year ago was the Tigers could have held their worked with those and the rest of probably bat no lower than sixth, a spirited practice the team held own, especially because he was the athletes this spring. according to Rheaume. when its seniors were off at a class optimistic about his pitching. “It does pain me to think of what Thes team’ final senior, Alexis event near the end of the season. “If we had gone .500 I would some of these kids might have Huestis, joins the varsity after Messenger said he and the have been pleased. But what I done if we had had a full season,” playing JV a year ago, and team’s other coaches observed was really was looking at was being in he said. “But right now we are Rheaume expected her to work into “a real unity” in the group they the Division II playoffs,” he said. reminding them that the most the outfield rotation. were expecting to see more of this “Last year we had the potential to TIGER SENIOR SPENCER Doran returns a shot during a 2019 important thing is to stay safe, The Tigers were hit hard by spring. be one of the final three or four match at the Middlebury Recreation Park Courts. Doran was one of practice social distancing, wash graduation, but also have a “We had a real upbeat, together teams in Division II.” several seniors Coach Ken Schoen expected to contribute to another hands and maintain their physical winning season. number of strong younger players, kind of practice,” he said. “So I (See MUHS, Page 4C) Independent file photo/Steve James and mental health. We are all in this Rheaume said, including Olivia was really looking forward to these together.” Audet (who will back up Stafford guys coming together.” on the mound), Taylor Betourney, Messenger expected this year’s and Patience Hanley. seniors — Hale Hescock, Devon Rheaume added junior Grace Kearns, Nick Carrara and Ryan SOFTBALL Paquette missed time while injured Nadeau — to continue to provide Tiger softball Coach Polly a year ago, but would probably that kind of leadership this spring, Rheaume was looking forward to start at shortstop or second base and to produce on the field. her program’s first season in many this year. He also expected three of them, years in Division II, especially Many positions were still up in Hescock, Carrara and Kearns, to with strong pitching and senior the air. take over as the team’s top pitchers leadership to merge with young “Wet weren’ even able to hold after each worked hard on the talent. our tryouts, so losing seven seniors mound this winter, with Hescock “There’s definitely potential from last year it was going to be and Carrara the Nos. 1 and 2. there. It was just a matter of getting a challenge,” Rheaume said. “But “Hale was looking to be the No. them to blend well, getting that we have a good group coming up. 1, and developing off-speed stuff,” team camaraderie,” Rheaume said. It was just where are you going to Messenger said. “Nick doesn’t have Rheaume said the strong put them.” the velocity that Hale has, but he’s pitching and a fair amount of that She fully expected the Tigers got that junk. He has that curve ball senior leadership would come from would have held their own. that is just phenomenal.” the same source: Four-year veteran “I have no doubt that we can be The addition of youngster Wyatt Gwen Stafford. competitive, one of the top teams Rubright at catcher would allow “Gwen is my true leader. She’s to beat,” Rheaume said. Kearns to move out from behind been playing a lot of ball. She does Like many coaches, Rheaume the plate and fill in all over the field winter ball. She does summer ball. went back and forth between including at third base and on the She was one of my captains last talking about a season that might mound. year. She gets the girls motivated,” happen or most likely not, but said “He’s just an all-around good she said. as much as she would miss working athlete and great kid, and he showed Stafford has the speed to be a with her athletes, safety came first. some real promise on the mound leadoff hitter and the power to “With this you should definitely this winter,” Messenger said. SENIOR GRACE TUCKER whips a shot home during a 2019 MUHS girls’ lacrosse win vs. Essex as classmate Phoebe Smith backs up the play behind the net. Independent file photo/Steve James

SENIOR GWEN STAFFORD, shown during a 2019 home game warm-up, would have been Tiger softball’s JUNIOR GABE DUNN breaks up a pass during a 2019 MUHS Ultimate game on Doc Collins Field. Coach top pitcher and probably also its clean-up hitter and key leader, along with several other talented seniors. Michelle Steele said turnout for 2020 was going to allow full boys’ and girls’ teams for the first time. Independent file photo/Steve James Independent file photo/Steve James

We are carefully monitoring the status of the COVID-19 pandemic and remain hopeful that we will be able to host these events, though dates are subject to change. Please check our website for most up-to-date information. HALF MARATHON We’re proud of our 5K & 10K Addison County OFFICIAL Date: June 14TH Branbury State Park student athletes! Lake Dunmore, VT Stay strong! Calling all student athletes to participate in a new athletic challenge this summer. Pick one event, or a few! Curbside Service 7:15am - 3pm VERMONT SUN TRIATHLON SERIES Call Sprint, Olympic & Paddle Triathlons 388-6054 June 27, July 19, August 16 - Visit our website for distances and more info CountrysideCarpetAndPaint.com VermontSunTriathlonSeries.com 16 Creek Road, Middlebury PAGE 4C — SPORTS REPORT • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 7, 2020 MIDDLEBURY UNION HIGH SCHOOL

Steele said, however, that just need the COVID to go away,” strong starting D as well.” Middlebury Schmitt’s leadership would be she said. • Of the versatile Smith, missed, citing her efforts this spring Whittemore — who earlier this Whittemore said, “What’s great to organize remote activities such as month mostly preferred to speak (Continued from Page 3C) about her is she’s willing to play Facetime group workouts and “fun about a season that would happen both, attack or D. As a captain and team games and competitions.” — credited the Tigers’ preseason a team leader her ability to adjust GIRLS’ “She is a positive and enthusiasm, at least in part, to the to either is something that every encouraging teammate, welcoming leadership of the team’s veteran coach looks for, and she’s powerful to new players, and a great teacher,” captains, senior Phoebe Smith and either way.” TENNIS Steele said. “When people say they junior Kaitlyn McNamara, a three- • Of Tucker, she said, “This Spring of 2019 was a bit of a love ultimate because they love year varsity defender. year she’ll definitely have a strong rebuilding season for Coach Jill the community, they are talking “Having Phoebe and Kaitlyn impact on the attacking side … Dunn’s Tiger girls’ tennis program, about players like Catherine, who as captains, two very humble She’ll take charge and get the job but she was optimistic her team create a positive and inclusive team and supportive, well-rounded, done.” was going to start to see their culture.” relentless workers on and off the Two more seniors, Ileigh Aube efforts pay off on the scoreboard Steele said Schmitt, voted a field, they really emphasize team and Kelsey Buteau, were new to this season. captain this season, would have connectivity, that will allow us to the team this spring, as were 16 “With 19 players and a strong also enjoyed success on the field go a long way,” she said. “They freshmen. 10th- and 11th-grade group, we this spring after proving her value are so warm and open-hearted with Many young players who would have a solid, deep lineup,” on all-gender teams over the past everyone.” excelled a year ago also return, Dunn said. three years. Those two and seniors Alice including some who were held Overall, the team is young, but “Spending most of her Ultimate Ganey, Grace Tucker and back by injury, giving Whittemore has two veteran senior captains that career marking up against male- Katie Berthiaume each took reason to believe the Tigers could Dunn said would provide strong identifying players who were responsibility for leading a fifth of have had a successful season. leadership, Ellie Kiel and Isadora sometimes bigger and taller, this spring’s combined varsity-JV And she did speculate about Luksch. Catherine developed a keen athletes in online workouts. what might have been, and look Dunn, preferring to speak sense of strategy and technique,” Whittemore talked about each of forward to what will be for what in hopes of salvaging a partial Steele said. “Catherine uses her her senior veterans. she called a group of special schedule, said the duo — who have speedy cuts and dialed-in throws • She called Berthiaume a vocal seniors. been a doubles team — would also to make great contributions as a leader who would start on defense: “I feel so bad for the seniors. But contribute on the court, with their handler for our team. She displays “Last year she really found I also feel bad for the undergrads exact roles to be determined. great spirit of the game, and is her voice, and she was a solid who may not have the opportunity “Despite their success at doubles a knowledgeable and confident defender.” to look up to this group of girls. last year, they each are considering player.” • She said Ganey would also They’re solid,” Whittemore said. a try at singles,” she said. Even without scheduled start in the back: “She’s relentless, “They’re all going to go a long A third senior, Maeve Hammel, competition this season Steele and has developed a lot over a way in life, and as a coach that’s signed on to the program, and SENIOR CAPTAINS ELLIE KIEL, left, and Isadora Luksch were said the Ultimate athletes were couple of years … She would be a what you want.” going to provide strong leadership and play for the MUHS girls’ planning to remain united. Dunn said she was looking forward tennis team, according to Coach Jill Dunn. to seeing what an athlete who has Photo courtesy of Jill Dunn “While we are immensely played varsity field hockey and disappointed that we won’t get lacrosse could contribute. Rizzo was happy to talk about year we could have been at least the opportunity to play the sport “She would be an athletic what he expected from the seniors a .500 team this year. And I think we love this year, we are excited addition to the lineup, and even on the field: there was a legitimate chance to to continue ‘remote Ultimate,’” though she’s new to the sport, she’s • Eli Billings, he said, is an flip 4-11 to 11-4.” Steele said. “Our captains are seasoned at competing,” Dunn “awesome kid” who would be part With it increasingly improbable planning remote activities to keep said. of the defensive rotation. the Tigers can even take a shot at us connected, everything from Younger players returning • Gale “would have anchored achieving their goals, Rizzo is sad virtual group workouts, rock- include the Tigers No. 1 and 2 from the defense.” for his seniors in particular. paper-scissors tournaments, trick 2019, Elizabeth Bright and Julia • Zeke Hooper, a midfielder and “We’re sorry to see them go,” shot contests, and more.” Bartlett, respectively, and Abby faceoff specialist, “is one of the he said. “I just feel so badly for Bailey also started in singles in best faceoff men in the state. He these guys that they don’t get to 2019. Dunn also was interested in would have really contributed.” finish out their high school career. GIRLS’ seeing newcomer Talia Cotroneo • James Jette was a probable It really stinks.” play, noting she has been working starter at left attack. LACROSSE with her older sister, a member of • Ethan Kent was returning to ULTIMATE Tiger girls’ lacrosse Coach the St. Michael’s College team. the sport after time off, but Rizzo Brandi Whittemore said she and Dunn said she was looking “had him pegged to get a lot of Ultimate Coach Michelle Steele the team’s athletes were definitely forward to this spring and keeping offensive midfield playing time.” said the newest varsity sport at looking forward to the season her hopes up. • Ian Ploof started as a first-line MUHS, the one played with flying before the uncertainty set it. TIGER SENIOR THATCHER Trudeau leaves his feet to defend a “I’ve been in touch with the team middie a year ago and would take a discs on Doc Collins Field, was “We definitely have the fire. We Burr & Burton attacker during a 2019 home boys’ lacrosse game. and am encouraging them to get step forward this spring. poised to take a major step forward Independent file photo/Steve James out and exercise daily,” she said. • Trysten Quesnel “is probably in its second varsity year at the “We will be keeping our fingers our best defenseman” and would school. crossed until April 30th, when the cover opponents’ top attackmen. “MUHS Ultimate was gearing VPA meets again to decide if we • Trudeau is a long-stick up for our biggest season yet,” said have a spring season.” midfielder “probably would have Steele, who guided the program anchored our defensive midfield from its inception as a club in unit” and come on as a short-stick 2012 to reaching varsity status and BOYS’ defender when a man down. winning the state’s “Spirit Award” • Jacob Webber was new to the in 2019. sport a year ago, but is “a good The biggest news was that LACROSSE athlete and hard worker” who enough athletes signed up to allow Earlier in April Tiger boys’ would look to work his way into the program to have separate girls’ lacrosse Coach Matt Rizzo also the lineup. and boys’ varsity teams for the had high hopes for success for his Rizzo noted a freshmen class first time, plus a boys’ JV team. In team if it could take the field. strong in numbers and talent was 2019 the team had just one team for To start with, the team had 10 going to give the program a shot players of all genders. seniors expected back this year, in the arm, including allowing the “We were excited to offer this although one, solid midfielder Kam return of a JV team. new team opportunity, and build Bartlett, would not have been able “We have 17 freshmen who are upon our foundation of a fun, to play due to an injury. going to be on the field this year,” inclusive team culture that we had All of them would have provided he said. “And a handful of them are built over the years. It is exciting leadership and acted as role models going to contribute.” to watch this dynamic, spirited, for the many young players who Underclassman who would and athletic sport grow in our were going to join the program this certainly have contributed were community,” Steele said. season, Rizzo said. attackers Bode Rubright and Owen The program also welcomed Dan “It’s a really good group of kids Lawton, goalie Jack Rizzo, and Raabe, who Steele said had been that I’ve never had any issues with long-stick middie Fynn Whitlock. the Youth Education and Outreach off the field,” he said. The Tigers were planning on Coordinator at USA Ultimate in Particularly, Rizzo cited the aiming high, with goals that Colorado, to help coach the new leadership of his tri-captains, included contending for a D-I title teams. Bartlett, Hunter Gale and Thatcher and rebuilding the program after a The program should be on good We miss watching you on the Trudeau. four-win season. footing moving forward under their “Hunter, Kam, Thatcher, those “Winning the state was probably leadership, as only one senior had guys are captains for a reason,” he super ambitious,” Rizzo said. “But signed up for this spring, four-year said. in my mind if we were 4-11 last veteran Catherine Schmitt. field, but honor your dedication as student athletes!

NMLS# 403372 TIGER SENIOR HALE Hescock looks to turn a double play during a 2019 game. Coach Charlie Messenger expected Hescock, one of at least four or five senior starters on the squad, to be his No. 1 pitcher and shortstop this spring. Photo courtesy of Mark Bouvier SPORTS REPORT • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 7, 2020 — PAGE 5C MOUNT ABE UNION HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL It’s probably fair to call the Mount Abraham softball team a dynasty after the Eagles won the past three Division III titles. And with veterans on the roster and a talented young pitching staff, Coach Donnie McCormick’s team was looking forward to taking a run at a fourth, even with graduation losses. “We haven’t used up all our bullets,” he said earlier this spring. McCormick pointed to the talent and leadership of four senior veterans, center fielder Addy Harris, catcher Abby Hoff, and outfielders Carly Counter and Justice Green. McCormick said Harris was the prime motivator and organizer of the Eagles’ offseason early- morning workouts. “There were 12, 14 kids showing up, and it was Addy and her leadership that were pulling that all together,” he said. On the field he cited Harris’ speed, power-hitting and outfield defense. “What I would have expected was an all-state type of season,” McCormick said. Hoff was also ready for a big campaign behind and at the plate, according to McCormick. “She’s as solid as anybody I’ve SENIOR CARLY COUNTER keeps an eye on the ball and gets ready to break off first base during a 2019 Mount Abe home softball game. Counter, one of a half-dozen seniors, ever coached,” he said. looked to be an outfield starter for an Eagle team eyeing its fourth straight Division II title under Coach Don McCormick. McCormick praised Hoff’s Photo courtesy of Mark Bouvier intangibles. “If I asked her to do anything she year ago. in the outfield rotation and as a “The kids would have played solid third basemen that I’ve had in from the team’s younger players, would try it and perfect it,” he said. “Carly was a sleeper,” he dangerous bat off the bench. well together,” Stetson said. “We a while,” Stetson said. Stetson said he is disappointed the McCormick described Counter, said. “She probably would have “Her role would have expanded were looking to go to the D-II Jackson Gepfert was set to start Eagles did not get a chance to show who also helped organize preseason surprised a lot of people with her for us, for sure,” he said. tournament and make some noise.” at catch after earning a utility role what they could do this spring, workouts, as a solid lefthanded power numbers this year.” Two more seniors joined the Stetson was happy to talk about in 2019 with his solid hitting. especially his seniors. hitter who would almost certainly Green was entering her third year team this spring. Rylee-Mae what he expected from his seniors. “He was a great utility player,” “We’re at a point with seven have moved up to a starting outfield on the varsity, and McCormick Mason earned a spot after working He called Silas Burgess a “top Stetson said. seniors coming back, with the job after excelling off the bench a envisioned a larger role for her hard on the JV team in 2019 and outfielder” who would have batted Griffin Louer was set to see young guys coming in, we were in would have pinch-hit and filled in near the top of the order and might action at both second base and position to make a serious run in the at third base. have also pitched in relief. outfield. tournament this year,” Stetson said. Kira Murray, the goalie for the Eben Clifford was set to throw a Wyatt Thompson would start at “I expected this was going to be a Eagle field hockey team, returned number of innings for the Eagles, second base, and depending who really fun, competitive season.” to the sport after an absence Stetson said, either as the No. 2 was on the mound see time at and would back up the outfield, or 3 starter or “a guy who would shortstop. Stetson had him penciled possibly fill in behind the plate, and come in two or three times a week in at the No. 2 hitter. BOYS’ pinch-hit and pinch-run. and shut the door.” Clifford would Stetson said he expected Nolan The other key to the Eagles’ have also seen time at first base or Whitcomb to have a great year as LACROSSE outfield. the Eagles’ top pitcher. success would be its young With the creation of a new Max Breault would have started “Nolan was going to be our pitching. Sophomore Cami Willsey Division III and the talent and at third base and hit no lower than stud on the mound, no question,” was set to move up to be the No. intangibles of four seniors to lead 1, with two talented freshmen also sixth or seventh in the order. Stetson said. expected to see time. All three “He’s probably one of the more With the contributions expected (See Mt. Abe, Page 6C) worked with pitching coaches in the offseason and were ready for varsity competition, McCormick said, especially with the team’s leadership and culture to support them. “I was really looking forward to that, with the veterans we have and Mt. Abe Senior letting those young pitchers grow up in that environment,” he said. In all, McCormick thought the Athletes 2020 Eagles had an opportunity to make it four straight. Softball Jonas Schroeder Nolan Whitcomb “I’m not going to say with the Carly Counter Alder Donovan- pitching coming into the division Justice Green Cook Track & field this year that we would have won it,” he said, “but I feel like we Addy Harris John Bent would have had a good enough Abby Hoff Baseball Jnana Breck-Arndt chance.” Rylee-Mae Mason Max Breault Lucy Guy Kira Murray Silas Burgess Charlotte Layn BASEBALL Jackson Gepfert Sean Meyer Longtime Mount Abe baseball Boys’ lacrosse Eben Clifford Roza Stewart Coach Jeff Stetson was looking forward to this spring: He had Ethan Dewitt Griffin Louer seven seniors returning from a Ryan Lathrop Wyatt Thompson team that won seven times a year ago, including a Division II playoff game, and he believed success was POLE VAULT JOHN BENT, who qualified for the state championship in 2019, was one of six seniors on the roster for the 2020 Eagle track in the cards. and field team. And, he said, plenty of talented Independent file photo/Angelo Lynn underclassmen were on hand.

Sports prepare you for life: There can be struggles, but with hard work and determination you will succeed. It’s all what you put into it!

MOUNT ABE SENIOR defender Jonas Schroeder was set to return this season after earning, along with 32 Pine Street • Bristol, VT 05443 classmate Ethan DeWitt, recognition as a Division II All-Star in 2019. Coach Ed Cook believed the Eagles For information on all your energy needs, please call us at: could contend in the newly formed Division III this spring. Photo courtesy of Mark Bouvier 802-453-2381 or www.JackmansInc.com PAGE 6C — SPORTS REPORT • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 7, 2020 MOUNT ABE UNION HIGH SCHOOL

Jonas Schroeder, midfielder Ryan Cook said, “He’s a beast. He’s a kid Lathrop, and defender Alder that other coaches stop and watch, Mt. Abe Donovan Cook. and that attackmen are scared of.” Cook believed DeWitt and Lathrop, Cook said, faithfully (Continued from Page 5C) Schroeder, D-II all-stars in 2019, attended off-season practices and the way, Coach Ed Cook was might have made Vermont’s Twin- took a step forward. Cook expected looking for his cooperative Mount State team this year, and he added him to start and score. Abraham-Vergennes boys’ lacrosse they would almost certainly have “His stick skills just improved so program to make major gains from been team captains. much, and his confidence,” he said. its four-win 2019 season. Of DeWitt, Cook said, “Ethan Donovan-Cook probably could “I had high hopes for my team is probably one of the best LSMs not have cracked the returning in general, but my seniors in in the state regardless of division. starting low defense of Schroeder, particular,” Cook said. He’s all over the field, doesn’t get junior Quincy Cook and The seniors are long-stick tired, and he’s a great kid.” sophomore Carmelo Miceli that is midfielder Ethan DeWitt, defender Of Schroeder, a four-year starter, a team strength, and Cook said he had volunteered to do double-duty as a long-stick middie. “Alder is an awesome kid,” he said. “That’s the kind of kid he is, what can I do for the team?” Cook said the Eagles’ depth should have paid off in what was a new nine-team D-III, including Otter Valley and new programs in Fairfax in Poultney. “My juniors have all been varsity starters since they were freshmen,” he said, citing in particular middie Griff Paradee. “We were going to definitely improve on our win-loss record from last year,” Cook said. “I would stack my team against any team in a one-game playoff and be really confident.” EAGLE SENIOR EBEN Clifford delivers a pitch during a 2019 home game. Clifford would have been one of seven seniors on a 2020 team that Coach Jeff Stetson said would some noise in Division II this spring. TRACK & Photo courtesy of Mark Bouvier “We anticipated this would be “I had hopes she would realize qualifying for the state meet in FIELD the year John Bent’s technique just how incredibly fast she really 2019 include sprinter Branden A number of seniors and would catch up to his strength and is in the 100 meter and set a new Reynolds and throwers Eliza Bent qualifiers for the 2019 Division speed. Sadly, a hand injury would school record for it before she and Abigail Roy. II championship meet were set to not allow him to grip the pole,” graduated,” he said. Coach Reynolds said he would return to the Mount Abe track and Goodyear said. Guy, Reynolds said, would have miss them and all the athletes he field team this spring. And Guy was caught in helped Mount Abe qualify in the enjoyed coaching so much in 2019, Second-year Coach Nate a scheduling problem: The girls’ 4x100-meter relay. especially the seniors he will now Reynolds said he had been championship meet conflicted with Layn, Reynolds said, showed not have the privilege of coaching particularly looking forward to graduation. promise in the 400 and in all the again. working with the team’s six seniors: “Lucy Guy had a tough decision: throwing events, in 2019, her first “Last year, being my first John Bent, Lucy Guy, Sean Meyer, train, compete and qualify for a year on the team. attempt at coaching, was so much Jnana Breck-Arndt, Charlotte Layn competition she would not attend “I believe without a doubt her more rewarding than I would have and Roza Stewart. or branch out into other events drive would have brought her to imagined it would be,” Reynolds Guy and Bent are returning pushing herself to get faster and states,” he said. said. “Seeing these young athletes qualifiers, both in the pole vault. stronger,” Goodyear said. Meyer is a thrower and vaulter, mature and achieve more than Guy placed a year ago, while Bent Reynolds said both would have and Breck-Arndt a runner. they believed they could was was just off the podium. competed in other events, while “They both always gave me their powerful, and not having this year Program pole vault coach Todd Bent and Stewart would have all during practice and meets, and I has left a hole. I wish them all the EAGLE SENIOR ADDY Harris shows the form that made her a Goodyear said realistically both served as captains. am sad I did not get to enjoy another best in their futures and hope they Division II All-Star outfielder in 2019. Harris was one of several could expect to challenge for a Reynolds said Stewart was also season with them,” Reynolds said. all continue to stay fit and push talented seniors on the team, including catcher Abby Hoff. themselves.” Photo courtesy of Mark Bouvier title, but it was not meant to be. ready to emerge on the track. Underclassmen returning after Athletes, you are not forgotten.

Co-OpInsurance.com 292 Colonial Drive, Middlebury, VT 05753-5890 Member Owned. Member Committed. SPORTS REPORT • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 7, 2020 — PAGE 7C VERGENNES UNION HIGH SCHOOL

GIRLS’ LACROSSE Spring 2019 was a memorable season for Vergennes Union teams, not the least for the joint VUHS- Mount Abraham girls’ lacrosse program under the guidance of Coach Marikate Kelley. In the third season of its existence, the Commodores progressed from one victory in 2017 to an undefeated campaign a year ago that culminated with a Division II title won in dramatic fashion at the University of Vermont. Few players graduated from that squad, but they included leading scorer Jalen Cook. And sophomore midfielder and two-way standout Grace Harvey was set to miss this season with a knee injury. But before coronavirus closed the schools, Kelley expected her Commodores to remain competitive, with plenty of talent returning from a young team with a year of experience under its belt. “While we didn’t lose many players from last season, neither did many other teams in our division. To be successful we needed to step up our intensity and put in the hard work each day at practice,” Kelley said. “I think that we were well poised to do that.” In part, she expected the team’s only senior and returning captain, attacker Siobhan Eagan, to help show the way. “Siobhan has strong stick work skills, and we were certainly looking forward to her continued VUHS SENIOR CATCHER Jeffrey Stearns tries to make the tag on an Eagle player sliding home during a 2019 game at Mount Abraham. Stearns, a team leader, was one of a success as a feeder on offense. number of talented players returning to the VUHS program as Coach Dwight Burkett’s Commodores were seeking a return to the Division III title game. But more importantly we were Independent file photo/Steve James looking to Siobhan for continued leadership,” Kelley said. her teammates. She also leads by freshmen” to contribute this year as into their own. Our sophomore “We’re looking forward to the Coach Dwight Burkett made “She is the glue that keeps the example, working hard to hone her the Commodores looked to excel class hasn’t lost a game since they time when we can all get back to no bones about what had been his team positive and all moving skills, and playing with passion. again, but mostly she expected were little kids. It took them a little our lives without endangering the expectations for 2020 — more of together. She has helped create When she’s on the bench she’s more from her many other talented time as freshmen last year to find public health.” the same. a culture of support by always the loudest voice cheering on her athletes up and down the field. their place, but their confidence “This team could have had the welcoming our new players and teammates.” “We have a great group of and hunger to win brings everyone best potential of any team we’ve looking out for and encouraging all Kelley expected “a couple of juniors who were ready to come up,” Kelley said. BASEBALL gone to the championship with,” With the season unlikely at best, After years of rebuilding, the Burkett said in March. she said the team was trying to Commodore baseball team also Burkett was confident saying make the best of the situation. excelled in 2019, winning 14 so even though senior all-star “It’s heartbreaking not being times despite a tough regular catcher Jeffrey Stearns, arguably out there with them during this season schedule and then making the team’s best player, would have particularly mild spring. But we’re a postseason run to the Division been limited by injury to being the keeping in touch, sharing lax III title game before falling to designated hitter or first baseman, videos, working out, and working undefeated White River Valley at and was scheduled for a procedure on individual skill,” Kelley said. Centennial Field. (See VUHS, Page 8C)

Vergennes Senior Athletes 2020

Baseball Track & field Robbie Bicknell Luke Bergmans Zeke Clark Amber Krumrie Aidan Gardner Gage Lalumiere Jeffrey Stearns Julio Quiles Erich Reitz Girls lacrosse Emily Rooney Siobhan Eagan Josias Salomao Kai Williams

COMMODORE SOPHOMORE HURLER Sierra Bertrand fires a pitch during a 2019 home game. Coach Travis Scribner’s VUHS softball team is one of just a couple locally with no seniors. Independent file photo/Steve James Community.

ALSO IN THIS SECTION: ADDISON COUNTY INDEPENDENT ADDISON COUNTY INDEPENDENT MONDAY EDITION B Section • School News • Classifieds THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2020 • Legal Notices • Police Logs ADDISON COUNTY MATT DICKERSON SPORTS ALSO IN THIS SECTION: B Section Outdoors (and • School News • Classifieds outdoor writers) • Legal Notices • Police Logs THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2020 SPORTS in Vermont  This coming June, the MATT DICKERSON Vol.INDEPENDENT 31 No. 24 Middlebury, Vermont  Monday, January 13, 2020 32 Pages $1.00 Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA) is hosting A first adventure their annual conference at Jay H.S. hoop: in snow Peak up in northern Vermont. It’s a great gathering of outdoor Tiger boys Several days ago my wife, Broadway communicators: writers, photographers, filmmakers, Deborah, and I went snowshoeing Gov. stresses child Mobile clinic brings new and cross-country skiing on a thick editors and publishers, and post only blanket of lovely fresh snow. We composer others affiliated with the industry weren’t alone. Joining us on the including reps of various care option to Middlebury manufacturers. outing was our friend Felicia. Felicia • A talented denizen of the care, energy strategy victory had never been snowshoeingskiing before. or By JOHN FLOWERS in the parking lot of the I’ve been to this conference New York theater world twice in the past four years: when ADDISON COUNTY — In high Felicia is in Lanpher, Bray weigh in on agenda MIDDLEBURY — former St. Mary’s Catholic her third and will speak at THT. See Arts school basketball action earlier this final year living By XANDER LANDEN and climate change protesters were Mountain Health Center School building off Shannon it was held week only the Middlebury boys in Vermont Beat on Page 10. Street. in Montana picked up a win, as the Vergennes KIT NORTON, VTDigger.org cleared from the Vermont House is based in Bristol, but its in 2016 and thanks to a Dr. Will Porter is in the and Otter Valley girls teams lost at temporary job in Editor’s note: Addison chamber at the start of Gov. reach and care extends well then again home, and the Commodore boys town. Two and a Independent reporter John Phil Scott’s annual State of the into Middlebury, thanks to a driver’s seat of the new in Arkansas lost a close road game. half years in, and Taking pulse of Flowers contributed to this State address this past Thursday, mobile medical van stationed service, with two essential in 2019. As The Tiger girls also visited (See Mobile clinic, Page 16) enjoyable as Mount Abraham on Tuesday; see she still isn’t a big fan of the cold of impeachment report. Scott raised familiar themes in every Tuesday and Thursday those locations story on Page 1B. Vermont winters. For that, she can be MONTPELIER — After (See Gov. Scott, Page 30) much as they had towere, offer inand as The Mount Abe and Otter Valley excused. Felicia grew up in Jamaica. outdoor recreation, I’m even more boys both played on Wednesday The average January temperature • We asked locals what they excited to have the conference after the deadline for this edition. in Montego Bay (near the cold come to Vermont in 2020. EAGLE SENIOR GUARD Chloe Johnston goes high over Tiger defenders Cady Pitner, left, and Hannah Turner to get a shot off in the lane thought about happenings during Tuesday’s basketball game at Mount Abraham. Johnston scored 15 points in the Eagles’ victory TIGER BOYS northwest corner of the Caribbean Though as one of the “local” On Monday the Tiger boys island nation) is 74 degrees. That’s at in D.C. See what they said OWAA members I got drawn into bounced back from a disappointing nighttime. In the day, it’s 83. Down on Page 2. some of the organizational work setback on the previous Friday to in Kingston on the southeast coast, of planning the event, the work thump visiting Missisquoi, 83- the average daytime temperature is should prove worthwhile for 57. Tyler Buxton led a balanced even warmer: a balmy 88. When her Eagle girls ride press past Tigers several reasons. offense with 16 points, and job ends, Felicia will be returning to Hammond One reason is I won’t have Independent photos/Steve James Colby Jamaica, leaving ice and snow and to travel by plane to go to the Defense too much ed 10 apiece andfor MUHS.Jeff Lokatys add- frost far behind. Yet she decided she Hoop rivals conference this year. proved to be too much for visiting The 8-6 Tiger boys were sched- shouldn’t leave Vermont without at for visiting MUHS A bigger reason is that Vermont Middlebury on Tuesday, when uled to host Milton on Wednesday least trying out a winter sport. meet at VUHS has a lot to offer when it comes By ANDY KIRKALDY the Eagles forced 17 first-half seeking to support senior guard In many ways, this was a bold and and are set to visit North Country to outdoor activities. I have more BRISTOL — Pressure defense turnovers and 28 total in a 45-21 Chloe Johnston, especially now on Saturday. adventurous step. There are plenty of • The Mount Abe boys than a little pride in my state, by the host Mount Abraham Union victory. that it is official that sophomore points apiece, and generally they VUHS GIRLS people who have lived in Vermont and am glad people from away High School girls’ basketball team The 8-5 Eagles also showed signs forward Grace Harvey will not showed a greater willingness to be for years, who have never been on visited the Commodores on At VUHS on Tuesday Enosburg get to taste a bit of that. When of the more balanced scoring that return from a Jan. 23 knee injury. more assertive on the attack. used a high-scoring second half cross-country skis. Those who have Saturday. See what hap- Coach Connie LaRose has been Johnston still led the way with LaRose was pleased with the been on skis — especially those who I’m interacting with my outdoor and sank seven three-pointers to Team spirit! communicator colleagues at the 15 points, but four other Eagles development. edge the Commodore girls, 55-50. remember their first experience on THE VERGENNES AND Otter Valley union high school cheer teams did pened in Sports, Page 20. contributed between five and nine “We’ve been talking about them — will tell you that skis are conference, I’ll claim all those Lydia Bowen led a balanced Hornet not come away with top-three finishes at Saturday’s state championships great outdoor opportunities as my that for a week and a half. Teams attack with 15 points. slippery. They are designed that way. at VUHS, but displayed plenty of energy, enthusiasm and coordination have been face-guarding Chloe. Keep your Tiger Pride! own, as though I know all about Until you learn to control them, they in their routines. The members of the Commodore team are Jenna Felicia Poirier them and get to take advantage They’re double-teaming her. That with 24 points, 10 rebounds sparked VUHS and have a habit of shooting out from Howlett, Ryleigh Dieterle, Alexis Emmons, Keira Lacey, Skyelynne means somebody else has some under you. Thayer, Shelby Paquin, Natalie Bergeron, Brianna Cram, Arielle Dumont, of them all the time. I’ll hope to eight steals. Heather Dwire, Madison Laberge, Madison Perkins and Kassidy Quinlan. options out there, and we need to Sophie Hatch scored When I’m in hiking boots and be given credit for how much the 10, and Kate Gosliga OV’s cheerleaders are Paige Bessette, Kellette IndependentBoynton, Erikaphotos/Steve Chapin, James state has to offer, or at least to be be looking at them,” LaRose said. I start down a steep slope, I lean (See Wrap, Page finished 3B) with Madison Colburn, Emily Hutchins, Maggie Loyzelle, Zoe Elliott and Taylor viewed as a possessor of local “And whether they went in or not, backward into the slope. That leaning Lampman. they were taking good shots for the backward is a natural instinct when knowledge. most part. We’re working hard on one is headed downhill wanting to The reality, however, is that practice that when you make those VUHS wrestling (See Dickerson, Page 2B) (See Dickerson, Page 3B) cuts and you get the ball, you’re head is up on the rim … and I could excels at MMU visibly see it happening a few times tonight.” tournament BOARD Coach Jen Heath’s 3-10 young Score Score Tigers — two freshmen, two By ANDY KIRKALDY HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS sophomores and a senior started JERICHO — The Vergennes Boys’ Hockey Late BOARD — have made progress, but the Union High School wrestling team HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS We’re proud of you! Eagles’ 2-2-1 press proved to be finished third, the highest among 2/19 MUHS at Girls’Colchester Hockey ...... 8-1 2/5 MUHS at RiceBoys’ ...... Late Hockey too big a hurdle as the Eagles took Vermont teams, at Saturday’s Jason 2/18 MUHS vs. Missisquoi a 15-3 lead after one period. Lowell Memorial Tournament Girls’ Basketball Girls’ Hockey 2/5 MUHS at Stowe ...... Late “They have a good press, and we hosted by Mount Mansfield Union 2/17 VUHS vs. Milton ...... 53-26 practice for it, but nerves come into High School. 2/17 Enosburg vs. MUHS ...... 39-26 ...... 52-26 2/4 Mt. Abe vs.Girls’ MUHS Basketball ...... 45-21 2/17 Mt. Abe vs. Winooski ...... 52-35 play. It also led to us not having Five Commodores reached the 2/4 Enosburg vs. VUHS ...... 55-50 enough shots,” Heath said. podium, led by junior Aidan Gebo. 2/18 Rutland Boys’vs. OV Basketball 2/4 Burr & Burton vs. OV ...... 41-23 Ahoy there! Heath said the Tigers have fared Gebo won at 126 pounds and the 2/17 Burr & Burton vs. OV ...... 56-50...... 54-46 HARKENING BACK TO War of 1812 hero Commodore Thomas Macdonough, fans in the student section of the gym at Boys’ Basketball best when they can use their speed tournament’s coaches chose him as 2/18 Missisquoi vs. VUHS 2/3 MUHS vs. Missisquoi ...... 83-57 Vergennes Union High School “look through binoculars” as a member of their boys’ basketball team takes a shot during2/3 Twinfielda vs. VUHS ...... 53-48 and athleticism in transition, and the event’s Outstanding Wrestler. 2/18 St. Albans vs...... 49-27 Mt. Abe ...... 50-46Late 2/18 MSJ vs. OV Jan. 3 game. 2/5 Enosburg at VUHS ...... Late the Eagles’ press and disciplined Otter Valley, Mount Abraham 2/19 Enosburg at MUHS ...... Hiking pro is Independent photo/Steve2/5 James Mt. Abe at Missisquoi ...... Late 3-2 zone was not a good matchup, and Middlebury wrestlers also 2/5 Milton at MUHS ...... Late MUHS SOPHOMORE HANNAH Turner uses a pick set by senior teammate Phoebe Smith on Eagle although Heath said her team also earned top-four finishes at the 29- 2/5 MSJ at OV ...... Late sophomore Abby Reen to attack the lane during Tuesday’s basketball game at Mount Abraham. Turner team tournament. scored five points in the game and was strong on the boards. played good man-to-man defense offering advice COLLEGE SPORTS — the Tigers forced 19 turnovers. Peru, N.Y. won the tournament Men’s basketball splits Women’s Hockey “We never got into an offensive with 241.5 points, followed by Schedule 2/4 Midd. vs. Norwich ...... 2-2 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS • Ivor Hughes, who took Malone, N.Y. (108.5), VUHS Boys’ Hockey groove,” Heath said. “I feel like we home playoff game. this photo in the Alps, Bristol bar bids farewell to devoted music fan played some really tough defense. (100), Champlain Valley (95.5), 2/22 MUHS at Essex ...... 6:30 PM On Tuesday, the Tigers outshot the games, gets No.The Panthers5 seed (20-4 overall, Mount Abe grad makes Hall of Fame MIDDLEBURY — The I thought our intensity was great.” and OV (89). 2/25 South Burlington atPlayoff MUHS Pairings ...... 7 PM Set T-Birds, 42-13. Tiger goalies Abby 6-4 in NESCAC) finishedwill in a give best practices for she went home for the evening. “Irene, good 2/27 ...... First-Round Games Middlebury College men’s By CHRISTOPHER ROSS and will to live that her doctor called her the COLCHESTER — Former (See Hoops, Page 2B) Mount Abe (63.5) took ninth, Quarterfiinals ment, while the remaining Tier II Hodsden and Claire Bruley com- three-way tie for third place with Schedule Mount Abraham Union High and MUHS (37) was 14th. 2/28&29 ...... Girls’ hockey grounds T-Birds basketball team split two backpacking. See Page 7. “bounce-back kid.” night.” Semifinals teams and all Tier III teams will bined for 12 saves, while Madison Trinity (16-8, 6-4) and Williams BRISTOL — Irene Lawrence acquired a School multi-sport all-star and conference at Saint Michael’s 3/3&4 ...... MIDDLEBURY — The Mid- NESCAC games this past HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS Local wrestlers finishing in the compete in the D-II tournament. Conley made 34 saves for MVU. (13-11, 6-4), but lost out on Her grandchildren called her “Nana.” “The Hatch was her community, and we College. 3/6&7 ...... Girls’ Hockey weekend as the Panthers’ few nicknames during her 33 years in Bristol. University of New Hampshire top four in their weight classes dlebury Union High School girls’ The Tigers will conclude their Audrey Schnoor led the Tigers tiebreakers because Trinity swept 2/7 CVU at MUHSBoys’ ...... Hockey 7 PM of Northfield and Sarah Schreib regular season concluded with To the town residents she greeted from But for a few sweet minutes toward the always loved her and cared for her,” said standout hockey player Carol The other inductees are cross were: 2/21 Rice at MUHS ...... 7Playoff Pairings PMSet hockey team blitzed visiting Mis- regular season by hosting Rice on with three goals and two assists. both teams in the regular season, 2/12 MUHS at St. Albans ...... 7 PM of East Fairfield, golf pro and a satisfying victory over the Lonny Edwards, who plays bass with the Weston, now a soccer and hockey country and track star Tara Chaplin • 106 pounds: 4. Eli Brace, 2/27 ...... First-Round Games sisquoi on Tuesday, 8-1, in a key Friday at 7 p.m. Avery Gale (assist) and Taylor including the Bantams’ 82-76 her porch — or from out front of the Corner end of every Friday night at Hatch 31 on 2/14 Stowe at MUHS ...... 7 PM of Middlesex, former UVM basketball player Libby Smith of 2/28&29 ...... Quarterfiinals league’s first-place team on referee, was picked last week as VUHS. Semifinals Tier II matchup. The Vermont Principals’ Associ- Moulton each scored twice, Bella home win on Jan. 31. Main Street she was just “Irene.” Friday night band. “She loved the band and Essex, and golfer Thomas Pierce 3/3&4 ...... The win moved the Tigers to Friday followed by a stunning, Store or Main Street Diner — she was known Girls’ Hockey one of the 10 newest members of hockey coach Jim Cross, former • 120: 3. Matt Conant, MAUHS. ation will release playoff pairings Gale scored one goalWe and assisted work(See Panthers, Page 2B) every day 2/7 Brattleboroto at MUHS ...... 5 PM keep she loved it when we sang ‘Goodnight Irene.’ BFA-St. Albans hockey player of Rutland. 3/6&7 ...... 11-6-2 with one game left in their last-second upset on Saturday as the “Bench Hugger.” “Good night, Irene,” Hatch’s Friday 2/12 MUHS at Essex ...... 6:15 PM the Vermont Sports Hall of Fame. • 126: 1. Gebo, VUHS. Girls’ Basketball for both the Tiger girls’ and boys’ on two, and Ella Tucker contribut- and coach Toby Ducolon, South Complete bios of the regular season. They remained in hockey teams on Feb. 27. Their that cost Middlebury a first-round bluegrass band would sing to her just before (See Lawrence, Page2/14 15)U-32 at MUHS ...... 5 PM The Vermont Sports Hall of • 132: 3. Taylor Stearns, VUHS. 2/20 OV at Hartford ...... 7 7 PM PM ed four assists. So strong were the 87-year-old’s spirit Fame announced its eighth group Burlington gymnastics champion inductees are available online at second place in Tier II, right behind first-round games, if scheduled, • 152: 3. David Williams, OV; 4. 2/20 Missisquoi at VUHS Brianna Parent scored the lone (See Schedule, Page 4B) of inductees during a Jan. 29 news Debbie Dunkley, Olympic ski vermontsportshall.com. John Bent, MAUHS. 2/20 Colchester at Mt. Abe ...... 7 PM Harwood (11-5-1). Missisquoi will be played on Feb. 28 or 29, MVU goal. 2/22 VUHS at Richford ...... 12:30 PM dropped to 9-7-1 in Tier II, but jumper Jeff Hastings of Norwich, The class will be formally • 160: 4. Calvin Kennett, and quarterfinals are set for March basketball players Ed Hockenbury inducted at the 2020 Vermont 2/21 MUHS at North Country ...... 6:30 PM remained in third place. 3 and 4. MUHS. 2/24 MUHS at Milton ...... 7 PM The top two teams in Tier II will Sports Hall of Fame dinner at the • 182: 3. Barret Barrows, VUHS...... 7 PM 2/24 Winooski at VUHS ...... 7 PM compete in the Division I tourna- (See Weston, Page 3B) • 195: 2. Gabe Payne-Vinick, 2/24 Mt. Abe at Missisquoi ...... 2:30 PM VUHS. 2/25 Springfield at OV (See Schedule, Page 3B) CAROL WESTON • 220: 4. Keaton Rayborn, MAUHS. • 285: 2. Jared Denis, OV; 3. Addison County strong. Nick Sheldrick, MUHS.

ADDISON COUNTY John Fuller, INDEPENDENT Master Plumber ServingServing Addison Addison County, County Vt., Since since 1946 1946 www.addisonindependent.com • 388-4944 Serving Addison County since 1989 PAGE 8C — SPORTS REPORT • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 7, 2020 VERGENNES UNION HIGH SCHOOL Mt. Abe

(Continued from Page 7C) that would have shortened his season. As well as being an outstanding defender and power hitter, Burkett praised Stearns’ intangibles. “Jeffrey, everybody looked up to him. He was a good influence on the younger kids. He’s just an easygoing, good kid. He’s a leader on and off the field, and a hard, hard worker. He always came early and always left late,” Burkett said. Several other seniors have lost a chance to make their marks on the VUHS diamond this spring. One is Robbie Bicknell, who won the second base job a year ago and, Burkett said, led by example. “He really took hold over there last year, really worked hard both defensively and offensively,” Burkett said. “He made good strides into becoming a good defensive second baseman, and he put a ton of time into his hitting, too, and it showed toward the end of the year.” Starting center fielder Aidan Gardner is also a senior. “He’s a big, rangy kid with a cannon arm who covered a lot of ground out there, and about midway through the season last year decided he was going to hit,” Burkett said. Senior Zeke Clark is also in the outfield mix for the Commodores. “He was a good team guy, a good role player, and we were definitely looking to him to secure a spot, if not in the starting nine, then a solid player off the bench,” Burkett said. ATTACKER SIOBHAN EAGAN, seen here winning a ground ball in a 2019 playoff game, is the only senior on Coach Marikate Kelley’s VUHS-Mount Abe collective girls’ lacrosse Past the seniors, Burkett said he team. Kelley expected Egan to provide offensive production and leadership in 2020. had talent around the diamond, and Independent file photo/Steve James especially on the mound. Tucker expectations are high,” he said. the group as a whole.” Stearns and Jarret Muzzy pitched Senior newcomer Julio Quiles “Winning is what they want to do. He expected help in fulfilling like aces in 2019, and Barrett joined the party this year, as If we can get the pieces together, those goals from young veterans Barrows provided a solid No. 3 in he and Huston won individual we have the capability to sweep the on the squad. the Commodore rotation. events at the Division II indoor relays, win the 300-meter hurdles “Our returning captain, and “With the pitching we had, to championship meet this past and place very highly in just about starting 3rd baseman, junior Ema be honest, I would have been February. There, Jarret Muzzy also every event on the boys’ side.” Gernander is expected to take disappointed if we didn’t make it at joined the winning Commodore party as the VUHS boys claimed over the leadership role left by least to the championship game,” graduating seniors from last year,” Burkett said. two more relay victories at the indoor championship and finished SOFTBALL Scribner said. “I also expected to third as a team despite fielding One VUHS team, Coach Travis see contributions from last year all- TRACK & only eight athletes and no jumpers Scribner’s softball crew, is one stars Felicia Poirier (a pitcher and or throwers. of just a couple local groups that first baseman), Audrey Tembreull Other seniors returning this would have had no seniors on its (the starting shortstop) and pitcher FIELD spring, where the Commodores rosters this spring. Sierra Bertrand. All three are just The VUHS track and field team would have competed in D-III Scribner’s main goal this season sophomores.” did not bring home a team banner again, were Amber Krumrie, was to see more of the progress He also expected help from a in 2019, but as has been their habit Luke Bergmans, Josias Salomao, toward competitiveness the half-dozen freshmen, including in recent seasons the Commodore and Kai Williams. Two more had Commodores made a year ago, pitcher Bethany Bresnick, as well runners brought home individual signed up for the first time, Emily as seen by the scare they gave as many other returning players. golds this past spring and had every Rooney and Gage Lalumiere — the eventual D-II finalist Otter Valley “There are six new freshmen that reason to expect more of the same latter of whom would have given in a first-round setback. I know would be impact players this spring. the team a jumper. Scribner said he hoped to as soon as games began,” he said. “Our hope is to end our seniors’ Castillo credited his senior continue to instill fundamentals “The other girls on our team are time at Vergennes with some veterans for setting the tone that and a positive attitude this spring. well-balanced athletes that are now success,” said Coach Brad Castillo, has led to the small team punching “Our goals for this year were to veterans of a full varsity season, among the coaches who preferred above its weight class. continue the growth the program and I am confident that would show to speak in hopes a short season “They have taken what I hoped had last season,” he said. “My during game play.” might occur. “The core of this would set in as a winning culture whole coaching philosophy is In all, Scribner believed senior group works extremely and made it happen. Vergennes based around inspiring confidence this spring would have been hard, and thankfully this has led to would not have become the not just to individual players, but to a step forward for his young a high level of success.” program it is without them. Each Commodores. Several runners return after of them has the ability to lead and “I expected this season to be a helping the Commodores win lead by example,” he said. turning point for folks to see just three events at last spring’s Castillo had expected more of how talented this team can be,” Division III championship meet, the same, noting over the past 12 SENIOR JULIO QUILES, seen he said. “We won two games last here in an indoor track meet at including senior Erich Reitz months the program’s boys, where year, and this year’s team has the University of Vermont this the potential to certainly have a and several underclassman, Ben the numbers are stronger, had winter, enjoyed a successful Huston, Xander DeBlois and Gabe earned 11 banners. winter season as a sprinter. winning season, possibly even Praamsma. “In terms of the team as a whole, Photo courtesy of Bill Clark earning a home playoff game.”

SUPPORTING Wishing all of those MIDDLEBURY TEAMS connected to AND ATHLETES athletics the best FOR 38 YEARS! of luck during this time. Everything For The Rink, Court, Pool, Field Open Monday - Saturday 9am - 7pm And Diamond! Vermont Sunday 10am-4pm State Redemption Closes 1 Hour Prior Liquor FORTH ’N GOAL SPORTS Store 802-388-3444 • MIDDLEBURYSHOP.COM 21 Prince Lane • Bristol • 453-3990

ON OR OFF THE FIELD, Wishing all Student Athletes a Winning Future we are still Your Friends John and Jim Fitzgerald at: Visit our website for CHEERING FOR YOU! digital workouts and up We’re proud of our student athletes! FrogHollowBikes.com to date info on the club. Telecommunications Sales & Service 74 Main Street | Middlebury Data Cabling & Fiber Optics Roofing and Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication 388.6666 802-388-8999 VermontSun.com 388-2903 SPORTS REPORT • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 7, 2020 — PAGE 9C OTTER VALLEY UNION HIGH SCHOOL

together, coaches included.” SOFTBALL Otter Valley softball Co-coaches BASEBALL Toni Poalino and Kelly Trayah and The OV baseball team is coming their athletes — especially eight off an outstanding three-year run seniors — had been thinking about under the leadership of Coach Mike this spring for at least a year, ever Howe. In 2017 the Otters rolled to since their dramatic run through the the D-II title; in 2018 they earned 2019 Division II tournament ended a high seed, but fell victim, as did with a loss to the Mount Abraham other top seeds, to Lake Region’s softball dynasty. upset express; and in 2019 the Many Otters, all of whom Otters followed a 15-1 regular returned this season, had worked season with a trip to the final before hard in the offseason. And they had a loss to streaking rival Fair Haven. raised money for a spring team trip Almost all of the players that to Florida that was canceled due to sparked that ride have graduated, the COVID-19 pandemic. many of them collecting their “We were definitely looking diplomas just a year ago. forward to this year with our Returning to help Howe instill returning senior core and younger the Otter Valley baseball culture talent,” said Trayah in an email into the next generation are two that he said spoke for both coaches. senior athletes, jack-of-all trades “Although we have not given up Logan Trombley and speedy hope for a season of some degree, outfielder Nate Blake. we are so heartbroken for our Coach Howe said he expected seniors and what they are missing, Trombley and Blake, the last starting with our first trip south for veterans who remain from the spring training.” 2017 title team, to help set the tone The coaches were reluctant to for the Otters, along with junior single out athletes. SHAYLA PHILLIPS, SHOWN connecting on a double to the right field wall in a 2019 game, is one of eight seniors on the Otter Valley softball veteran catcher Alex Polli. squad this year. “They truly do complement “They have both bought into our Brandon Reporter file photo/Russell Jones one another, and they are all so system 100% and are team-first well balanced as players and players that work really hard to be Milliman said in an email. “That teammates,” their email stated. successful,” he said. said, we have a quite experienced But they did comment on what Individually, Howe said and talented group of 10th/11th they expected from their seniors, Trombley would continue to help grade players who I believe starting with co-captains Livia OV all over the diamond, including were ready to step up and assert Bernhardt and Isabella Falco. They on the mound. themselves more on the lacrosse called Bernhardt a “surehanded “(He’s) a versatile player that field.” shortstop with great power” and can play just about anywhere. He He called sophomore goalie Falco a “talented second baseman really started to play well towards Danny O’Brien “well prepared with a great bat.” the end of last season and should to ease into the starting goalie They described the other seniors: be at the top of the lineup. Also a position” after a summer of box • Renee O’Connell as a “greatly pitcher, Logan would be looking to lacrosse, and said a “strong class of improved outfielder” and a leader eat up a lot of innings,” Howe said. rising freshmen” were also ready with a “great bat.” Blake would especially help to contribute after playing Brandon • Morgan Laporte as a “reliable defensively and on the basepaths, youth lacrosse. pitcher who throws strikes and Howe said. Milliman was also counting on another great bat.” “Nate would compete for any two senior defenders, Jared Denis • Shayla Phillips as an of the spots in the outfield and and Spencer Pelkey. Both were new “exceptional outfielder” and power continue to steal a ton of bases for to the sport in 2019, but became hitter. us,” he said. regular contributors off the bench, • Stephanie Palmer as a “rock- Howe would not have predicted and he expected them to compete solid catcher and much improved the Otters could rise to the same for starting jobs this spring and hitter.” level of contention this year, but he to contribute strong leadership • Madison French and Carolynn believed the Otters were at the least regardless. Lafountaine as utility players who going to hold their own. “Both appear to have fallen play strong defense and who are “It is hard to replicate the in love with the sport, as their both “skilled batters.” successful teams we have had enthusiasm was always evident on Both Trayah and Poalino are recently, but I think we would the playing field. Jared and Spencer disappointed all their athletes lost compete in every game we play,” are both tremendous leaders who HAYDEN GALLO, A 2019 OV graduate, moves the ball during a 2019 game. Coach Jesse Milliman the chance to bond and improve he said. “We are a young team, but naturally command the respect and expected OV’s two seniors, Jared Denis and Spencer Pelkey, to provide leadership and contribute on their softball on the trip south. we have a group that love to learn admiration of their teammates,” defense for a young team. Photo courtesy of Mark Bouvier “The girls worked so hard to and is built on fundamentals.” Milliman said. have this trip and we now will be “I also was expecting them to looking for alternatives, social sophomores Jamie Dube-Bordeau back to that when the program was immediately step into leadership and Brielle Mackie and freshman founded more than two decades distancing pending,” Trayah wrote. BOYS’ roles. Regardless of what eventually GIRLS’ And the coaches feel for the Pajua Gamba. ago by former OV art teacher happens to this lacrosse season, Had the season proceeded under Jim Samler — developing tennis seniors who are likely to be denied Jared and Spencer will both be their last hurrah, and for the Otters LACROSSE TENNIS a new coach, the emphasis this skills and the love of the sport as a sorely missed by their coaches and spring would likely have dated lifelong pursuit. not to have the chance to be The OV boys’ lacrosse program teammates.” Uncertainty was the order of together and showcase their talent. achieved a significant milestone The Otters, along with local rivals the day for the OV girls’ tennis “After last year making it to in 2019 — the team posted its Mount Abraham, were going to play team as spring arrived, and not the state championship and not first-ever winning record, an effort in the newly minted Division III for only because the season was at losing a single player we had high that included a first-round playoff boys’ lacrosse. Overall, despite the risk. hopes on returning to Castleton victory before a 3-2 second- Otters’ youth, Milliman expected OV Athletic Director Steve Keith OVUHS Senior and challenging for a state round loss to eventual Division II them to hold their own there. told the Independent at the end of championship again,” they wrote. champion Stowe. “I was feeling quite optimistic March he had yet to find a coach “This is a special group of Coach Jesse Milliman about where this team was headed for the program, and the graduation players who have come together as acknowledged, however, the Athletes 2020 this year. When you have a group of four seniors and addition of one Baseball Carolynn a family and truly care about each Otters could have been looking at of hard working, enthusiastic freshman and two sophomores left other. Their softball skills grew the proverbial rebuild after heavy young lacrosse players anything the Otters with six players officially Nathanial Blake LaFountaine so much last year, and they love graduation losses that included the is possible,” he said. “If we are signed up — not enough to field a Logan Trombley Renee O’Connell to learn and without hesitation do team’s four leading scorers and allowed to have a shortened season full ladder of five singles players Stephanie Palmer whatever coaches ask. I won’t say outstanding goalie Alec Stevens after April 30, I remain very and two doubles teams. I’ll miss this group, as there is still “I was anticipating somewhat of excited to coach this group to the The team’s veterans are a trio Softball Shayla Phillips hope and even if we did not play a rebuilding year after graduating best of my ability and see what we of juniors: Madilyn Morgan, Livia Bernhardt a large and talented senior class,” another game this team will remain can do.” Anoushka Pschorr and Sydney Isabella Falco Boys’ lacrosse Singh. They were part of a squad that compiled a 3-9 record in 2019, Madison French Jared Denis including a first-round Division II Morgan LaPorte Spencer Pelkey setback. Joining them in signing up were JACKMAN FUELS, INC.

Serving Addison & Chittenden Counties Since 1945 Even though you can’t play, we’re still cheering for you!

PROPANE • ULTRA LOW SULFUR FUEL OIL • KEROSENE 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICES 877-2661 JOSH BEAYON, A 2019 Otter senior, helped the OV baseball team to an outstanding three-year run that included a 2017 title. Coach Mike Howe expected leadership and solid play from 2020 seniors Nate Blake and Logan Trombley. Independent file photo/Steve James 205 Main Street, Vergennes • jackmanfuels.com PAGE 10C — SPORTS REPORT • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 7, 2020

The health and safety of our customers, our communities and our team is our top priority.

VGS is here for you!

Supporting student athletes in all of life’s pursuits!

Learn more at vgsvt.com

HEAR BETTER. PLAY BETTER. LIVE BETTER.

Though this spring sports season did not go as planned, we at Home Audiology Services are still extraordinarily proud of Addison County student athletes. We know that you work hard and play hard, and wish you all the best during future seasons!

We are here to serve our local community with better hearing care, and we are eager to provide each person with the highest quality, individually tailored solution possible. You can rest assured that you’ll be treated to a pleasant experience.

SERVICES • Comprehensive hearing • Assistive Devices evaluation • Cerumen Management • Hearing aid evaluations • Pediatric testing with and fittings Visual Reinforcement • All makes & models of Audiometry (VRA) hearing aids service & repair • Auditory Brainstem Dr. Christopher Beuhler • Tinnitus Management Testing (ABR) Au.D, F-AAA, CCC-A Doctor of Audiology

34 MAIN STREET, SUITE 1 | VERGENNES, VT 05491 | (802) 870-7170