EDITORIAL ARTS COMMUNITY FEATURES SPORTS What can be done about Rosencratz and Guildenstern Everyone’s a Winner at Bunion Thanksgiving Favorites October Athletes of the Varsity Banquet are Still Dead Derby and PowderPuff Month Page 2 Page 5 Page 6-7 Page 9 Page 11

Wilbraham & Monson Academy The Global School ® TLAS Volume III, Issue 2 A November 30, 2010 Wilbraham, MA 01095 Paul Sullivan Clutches Our Attention By JEREMY GILFOR ‘11 van presented “Responsibility and Senior Editor Why People Choke”. The author stressed that people must recog- The first thing you notice nize, accept, and then take respon- about Paul Sullivan is his big red sibility for both their triumphs and bow tie; it is disarming. You expect their mistakes, or else the results this financiero to babble on and could be catastrophic. on about Clutch, but instead, this He also noted that we, as soft-spoken man is telling you in a students, are not sports stars or rather conversational manner about multimillion dollar stockbrokers why some people succeed and oth- (yet) like many of the people in his ers fail. book. That being said, he believes Conversational is a rather that “all of [us] can become better adept way to describe Mr. Sullivan. under pressure” in whatever en- On his book, Clutch: Why Some deavors crop up in the future. People Excel Under Pressure and Sullivan says one key to Left to Right: Mr. LaBreque, Paul Sullivan, Ms. Donohue Others Don’t, Mr. Sullivan men- becoming better under pressure is tioned, “hopefully [Clutch] makes “the ability to do what you could successful are: focus, discipline, preparation. He believes “we often a point, but I don’t want people to normally do under extreme pres- adaptability, being present, and confuse people who are clutch be bored.” sure.” In his speech during School fear/desire. Subsequently, the three with people who are lucky…I And bored they are not— Meeting on November 11th, he factors that cause people to fail don’t believe the home run or the Sullivan maintains his colloquial presented his book and outlined are: lack of responsibility, over- shot at the buzzer is clutch. I don’t tone throughout the case study what he feels are the five traits that confidence, and over thinking. And believe the Hail Mary [pass] is built upon a wide range of people make people clutch and three that while Sullivan touched on each and clutch either. It has a component who succeed and fail under tre- make people choke. every one of these traits, he did not of luck—it’s not repeatable.” The mendous pressure. According to Clutch, the give away his book. author believes that a small number Sullivan defines clutch as: five aspects that make people In school meeting, Sulli- Continued on page 3 Mr. Rodger’s New Neighborhood By AUSTIN LITTLE ‘12 Capital donations are Global News Editor different from the annual fund. Capital gifts are used to fund long Entering Rich Hall, one term projects. Capital can be used passes a door directly across from for construction projects, like the Mr. LaBrecque’s office. Here a greenhouse or the gym. It can new member of the administra- also be used to contribute to the tion has begun to set the wheels in school’s endowment. motion to bring the fund raising One of Mr. Rodgers’ goals efforts of Wilbraham and Monson is to see contributions to the annual Academy into a new era. fund increase over his time at the Mr. Richard Rodgers has Academy. He plans to reach out to joined WMA as the new head of more alumni of the school, as well the Alumni Development office as to persuade parents of current from the University of Massachu- students to contribute more toward setts-Amherst. the annual fund. After 11 years at UMass, Mr. Rodgers also thinks Mr. Rodgers saw an ad for a new that the students at the academy head of alumni development at should start thinking about how WMA. Mr. Rodgers applied for A friendly new face, Mr. Rogers they will give back to the school job and interviewed with Mr. once they graduate. He hopes to LaBrecque for the position. also thinks that the Academy’s two types of money that can be get the senior class gift planning Mr. Rodgers says it is focus on understanding business, raised for the school: the annual started earlier in the year. He says Mr. LaBrecque who drew him economics, finance, and entrepre- fund and capital giving. that he would like to see each to the school. He describes Mr. neurship is a key selling point of The annual fund is the cur- year’s senior class begin think- Labrecque as “a strong leader” and the school. Because these are the rent money that helps the school ing about what they will give the says he “has a great vision for the main drivers of the modern econ- run from year to year. It can be school in the winter trimester, school.” omy, Mr. Rodgers believes it is used to provide scholarships, hire instead of the spring trimester like What specifically does Mr. important to begin addressing these new faculty, get team uniforms, the classes usually do. Rodgers like about WMA? For one subjects at the high-school level. or go toward building the school’s thing, he believes in the Academy’s Mr. Rodgers has great plans endowment. Continued on page 3 slogan, “The Global School.” He for fundraising at WMA. There are 2 Editorials ATLAS Staff Varsity Banquet: O Captain! My Captain! Mr. Cook and Mr. Kelly, changes By TERESA KENNEDY ‘12 Varsity Banquet is not the spectacle Editors-in-Chief to the banquet do not seem likely. Staff Writer that it is at WMA. Rather, schools Jeannette Viens ‘11 However, we must continue to hold varsity awards ceremonies Jeremy Gilfor ‘11 raise awareness for improvements either partially or completely as Jessica Duncan ‘11 in order to make the Varsity Ban- individual teams. WMA’s large quet attendance seem like less of a celebration is a great privilege for News Editor chore and more of a true celebra- winning teams and award-winning Jacqueline Smith ‘11 tion. In the meantime, glean what players whose successes are pub- pleasures you may from this WMA licly showcased. Department Editors tradition, and make sure to con- However, for losing teams Matthew Pajak ’11 gratulate fall varsity athletes on and players who did not win Austin Little ‘12 jobs well done! Sara Tardiff ‘12 awards, the Varsity Banquet can be a source of humiliation and indif- Production Editor/Photographer ference. The event consumes three Eric Diogun ‘11 hours that might be used towards studying for end-of-trimester tests. Faculty Advisor For winners at the banquet, Timothy Harrington Branden Piquette ‘11 and Chris Glabicky as they flood out of the dining hall ‘11 Boy’s Cross-Country Captains shortly after 9 o’clock, they are on Staff Writers cloud nine. For non-winners, hours Timothy Manghan ‘11 of speeches and perhaps the public Jason Duke ‘11 There are many rituals that showcase of their team’s failure do Evan Filkins ‘11 occur at the end of each trimester not generally yield such positive Timothy O’Reilly ‘11 at WMA: last-minute tests and responses. Nicholas Sarno ‘11 quizzes; boarders completing More people would actually Vivian Wang ‘11 forms enabling them to leave for enjoy the Varsity Banquet if it were Clare Bi ‘11 break; and playoffs for qualify- held at a more reasonable time. Teresa Kennedy ‘12 ing teams. Another timeless end- Why hold a three-hour banquet Chloe Snyder ‘11 Field Hockey Captain Max Rankin ‘12 of-trimester ritual at WMA, also on a school night during a testing Eva Landers ‘12 attended by playoff teams: the week, immediately before grades Alexandra Comey ‘12 Varsity Banquet. close? This puts extra stress on Nicholas Jalbert ‘12 In speaking with long-time both teachers and students. Arnelle Williams ‘13 WMA teachers, Mr. Cook and If WMA attempts to foster Emma Bourgeois ‘13 Mr. Kelly, I have learned that the student-athletes, wouldn’t this take Letters... Sarah Goolishian ‘13 Varsity Banquet has not incurred away from homework time? Ad- Nora Harrington ‘13 many changes during their tenures mittedly, many students have extra Mia Konstantakos ‘13 at the Academy. The one difference time when the banquet is held, While visiting WMA after between the banquets of today and since most sports have finished. attending Ms. Ramdas’ speech, I Faculty Writers those of yesteryear was the tempo- Despite this fact, there is certainly happily grabbed Volume III, Issue Christopher Ayers rary addition of a keynote speaker a more optimum time to hold the 1 of Atlas, a publication which I Melissa Donohue in the early 1980’s. Varsity Banquet. served as Business Manager years Acclaimed Celtics an- Ideally, this would be ago. As another way to increase nouncer Johnny Most was both during the first week of the new my awareness of Academy life, I Mr. Cook and Mr. Kelly’s favorite trimester, though not on a Monday enjoyed reading every article in speaker. The tradition of having a night. In hosting the banquet after your high-quality paper. I com- keynote speaker at the Varsity Ban- a trimester’s end, we would also ment now about one, “Goodbye Make your quet eventually dissolved, how- be able to celebrate teams that had Spa ...” ever, because it added extra time to been through the playoffs. Teach- In the 1950’s, the Spa (with the banquet. Mr. Cook also recalls ers, coaches, and students would be food, post office, three pool and voice heard! that captains’ speeches used to be under much less stress while finish- two ping pong tables) was in the shorter than in recent banquets. ing their end of trimester work, and basement of Smith Hall. This However, Mr. Cook also therefore would be able to better made the Senior Bridge particu- opined, and I would have to agree, appreciate teams’ seasons and suc- larly defended as a speedier way that the best part of the banquet is cesses. for them to get from classes dur- hearing the captains’ speeches. In Holding the event on any ing mid-morning break. Smokers my years at WMA, I have attended night other than a Monday, the huddled outside at the back end Write a letter to the eight Varsity Banquets. Each has night that students receive the most of Smith, overlooking the wood Editor and you could be gone far too long. This is largely homework, would also lower stress outdoor track (coached by Chem- published in our next due to the lengthy and descriptive levels and garner more positive istry teacher Phil Shaw, memorial- issue! speeches given by coaches of the feelings. One of the target audi- ized in your Athletic Center). Until many teams. ences of the banquet is athletes’ a change of headmaster in 1955, The Varsity Banquet is an families. There is not one best time students were invited to Uncle event celebrating students, and for for all families to come together to Charlie’s Rendezvous (Charles Ste- this reason, it is more meaning- celebrate WMA athletes. vens, remembered in Fisk) in the Jeannette Viens ful and interesting if captains are Therefore, it would not basement of what is now Morrow [email protected] given a chance to speak about their make a huge difference if the House. teams, rather than the coaches. ceremony took place on a differ- Enjoy your wonderful Although it was slightly better this ent night, the week after the term school, and you will always sup- fall, this ratio of captain to coach ended; such a move would only port it as I have. time needs to tip even further to- positively affect the WMA commu- ward the captains. nity. Bill Faulkner ‘57W At many other schools, the Based on the observation of News 3 Faculty + Field Hockey = Fun

The Faculty battled Varsity Field Hockey to a 2-2 tie on Nov. 11 in an epic contest pitting senil- ity and dubious clothing choices against youthful vitality and idealism. Goals were scored by Allie Arnieri and Tiffani Bor- rello for Field Hockey, and Mr. Whitcomb and Mr. Swanson for Faculty. Fun was had by all.

Clutch (cont’d) Rodger & Out (cont’d) friends, all afford us the chance Continued from page 1 to turn in clutch performances— Continued from page 1 While students may not clutch is an everyday part of our realize it now, WMA is lives. Learning to be focused, disciplined and clutch can improve “Wilbraham & Monson Academy able to exist and serve its both study habits and grades over- functions due to people’s generos- students due to the gener- ity,” Mr. Rodgers stated. He added all. osity of its alums. that students at the school need to realize the implications of this. Another thing Mr. Rodgers would like to achieve at WMA is tinued his educational career by at- bringing in alumni of the school tending Tufts University. At Tufts, talk with students during chapel Mr. Rodgers majored in English. meetings. Mr. Rodgers is not only a “The alumni have great working man, he also has some stories to tell,” he said. “Now that hidden talents. time has passed, they are able to In his free time, Mr. Rodg- see how WMA gave them a leg up ers enjoys playing guitar. He says on their future.” He hopes that their that he plays acoustic and electric stories will get students excited guitar, and his favorite genres to Editor Jeremy Gilfor with Mr. Sullivan about giving back to the school. play are rock and roll, jazz, and WMA is able to exist and of repetitions in practice—but in blues. serve its students due to the gener- high stress situations—to simulate The new Head of Alumni osity of its alums. the pressure of the real world help Development also likes cooking, Mr. Rodgers believes that most in the future. Most often “we and he makes a great pot of chili. when students graduate and look prepare the wrong way…it’s not When asked how good his back on their time at the Academy, the quantity of the preparation, it’s chili is, Mr. Rodgers said, “Put it they will recognize what alumni how we go about preparing.” It is this way, people from Texas tell me for generations have seen, and they this type of preparation that trans- it’s great.” Clutch by Paul Sullivan will give back generously to the lates to clutch behavior. Atlas welcomes Mr. Rog- school. So why do high school ers to the WMA community and Mr. Rodgers spent his students care about these stories? wishes him the best of luck in his childhood growing up in a town The exams, the presentations, the alumni development plans! outside of Philly. He went to an athletic contests, the conversations independent school, and then con with teachers, coaches, parents, 4 Arts Once Upon A Time You Got Nothing on N*E*R*D By EVAN FILKINS ‘11 By SARAH TARDIFF ‘12 The impressive synthe- Nothing, front man Pharrell has Staff Writer Arts Editor sizers and thudding beats are all said that a majority of the tracks Once upon a time, there thanks to Daft Punk. After finding are catered to women. His sensual was a marvelous book reviewer. success with their “Harder, Better, lyrics and consistent topic of “the He lived in the land of no dress Faster, Stronger” remix, Daft lent ladies” make this evident. Many code, where the library had six their talents to N*E*R*D and get of N*E*R*D’s songs relate the fe- espresso machines and the printers some pretty impressive results. male form to divine revelation. The would work without fail. He was Their collaboration is mature and Neptune Boys have most certainly always happy, frolicking through focused, something the boys had found God in tracks such as “Per- the countryside with singing ani- been lacking in their past albums. fect Defect” and “I’ve Seen the mals and dancing inanimate ob- One of the few things Light/Inside of Clouds”. The most jects– Psych! But didn’t that sound N*E*R*D just can’t seem to get apparent woman-worshipping song familiar? past is their lack of clever lyrics. would have to be “Sacred Temple”. Just about everyone has The one-liners are always smug It is filled with gospel melodies and heard a fairy tale – the stories that and indirect, leaving listeners to lyrics such as “You’re my temple, start and end with nursery rhyme feel as if Pharrell’s creativity is get on my knees, and I come to clichés. They’re designed to enter- just over their heads. Trust me, it you.” It has a deep base line and a tain or to teach lessons by painting isn’t. His 40-year old mind is just soulful collision of different musi- pretty pictures meant to catch the Vintage pop with tokenistic going beyond original and right cal genres. fleeting attention of a six-year-old guitar and even a little bit of jazz: to bizarre: “Homeboy, it’s totally The deluxe edition of this listener. And fairy tales include the Pharrell never fails to take part in obvious, you don’t be listening to album, which was released on Nov. words “happily ever after”...most an innovative project. N*E*R*D, her mind.” 2, 2010, is completely necessary. of the time. his collaboration with Chad Hugo Say what? English, please. N*E*R*D’s true 70’s influences Ask the Brothers Grimm and, at times, Shay Haley, surpass- Pharrell doesn’t seem to care if the are shown in their bonus tracks. about fairy tales and you will get a es their previous mediocre attempts audience understands his points in “It’s In the Air”, “The Man”, and different definition. The works of at decent albums, such as Fly or “Help Me”, “Life as a Fish”, and “I Wanna Jam” reveal their funk- Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm employ Die and Seeing Sounds, to put out “I’ve Seen the Light”. They con- adelic side, with a trippy vibe ever a time-tested technique favored by Nothing, an album with a straight- tribute to his failure to compose present. early nineteenth century German forward theme: party mixes. inspiring lyrics to match the album. Lyrically, Nothing might be parents: terrorizing children into In their early years, Nothing finds balance, kind of a bust, but if you’re look- obedient submission! N*E*R*D was a glorious con- however, with another highlight, ing for something to party to, this Take Snow White and the cept. Anything Pharrell touched “Victory”. This song still has a is definitely your soundtrack. Seven Dwarfs, for example. The had instant success, for his style dance-inspired flow even while re- Three of four lightning bolts! modernized version has a wide- and ideas were unparalleled. Once maining low key. Its upbeat vocals eyed deer, a gentle huntsman focusing on side projects, how- compliment the lyrics perfectly. and an only-moderately-freakish ever, the band fell embarrassingly Since the early stages of wicked stepmother. Travel back flat with Fly or Die, essentially an two hundred years and it’s a bit dif- emo cry for help, which was even ferent: exchange the familial dwarf complete with a Good Charlotte bonds with something more like collaboration. Needless to say, their Atlas Shrugged serfdom, turn the wicked stepmoth- little project never really took off. er into a cannibal (there’s nothing The Neptunes were a classy like the heart and tongue of your group of guys who lacked focus, stepchild to take ten years off the but with Nothing, they finally pull face), then sentence her to death by it together. No more confusing red-hot iron shoes. Much better. freestyling followed by imitation The method works. From screamo; just straight dance beats The Donkey Cabbages to Little that flow together cohesively as an Red Riding Hood, the Brothers album. Grimm had psychological condi- The album opener, “Party tioning down to a science. Barnes People”, features vocals by T.I. and Noble Classics recently pub- and acts as the ideal party song, lished an anthology of the Grimms’ chanting and all. This high-energy work in an effort to preserve the frenzy starts Nothing on the right folklore of Germany. They’re note, leading up to other funky, funny, easy to read and more than dance tracks like “Hot N’ Fun”, a little bit disturbing – what more their lead single, which features could you ask for from a fairy tale? Nelly Furtado. This hit combines Peace of mind and blissful igno- a soulful chorus with Pharrell’s rance of the history of your favor- signature short and simple lyrics. ite childhood stories? Overrated. It rouses flashbacks of In Search Whether you’re a teenager of…, and for most N*E*R*D fans, interested in a bedtime story from that’s all that needs to be said. the Black Forest or a parent strug- “Hypnotize U”, although gling with over-enthused children, incorporating some of the sickest I recommend picking up a copy trance beats N*E*R*D had laid of “Grimm’s Fairy Tales”. You down, does in fact portray Phar- just can’t trust your moral fiber to rell’s voice as close to Prince’s as Disney, these days. humanly possible. Just take a lis- Four out of four lightning bolts! ten. The reference won’t be lost on you. Let’s just say he whispers… a lot. Arts 5 Slayed by Rosencrantz and Guildenstern By NORA HARRINGTON ‘13 realize, the only meaning to their a box, and one keeps forgetting to an entrance somewhere else”. Staff Writer lives can come with their deaths in take into account the fact that one Rosencrantz and Guilden- the famous final scene. is dead which should make all the stern Are Dead contains many The Academy characters that Players’ presented an are crucial to the excellent rendering adaptation of of Tom Stoppard’s Hamlet. Hamlet, play, Rosencrantz the character that and Guildenstern Are the play really Dead, the weekend of spirals around, November 11-12. The was expertly lead roles were played portrayed by by Priyanka George Kristin Reeves ‘11 as Rosencrantz and ‘14. Tuxedo Nicholas Jalbert ‘12 and jetpack clad as Guildenstern. Mr. Claudius, played Dziura directed. by Jason Duke Rosencrantz ‘11, never failed and Guildenstern to spark a laugh Are Dead is essentially William Combined, Rosencrantz difference... shouldn’t it? I mean, in the audience, neither did the step Shakespeare’s play Hamlet viewed and Guildenstern are responsible you’d never know you were in a stool carrying Gertrude, portrayed through the eyes of two minor for at least 70 percent of the dia- box, would you? It would be just by Caroline Manghan ‘13. characters, Hamlet’s friends, who logue, delivering their lines effort- like you were asleep in a box. Not “Duke made James Bond accompany him on his trip to Eng- lessly but also meaningfully. Some that I’d like to sleep in a box, mind look like Charlie Brown,” observed land. We know Hamlet is about the of this natural ease comes from you, not without any air, you’d Derrick Barnagian ‘11 after watch- the remarkable wake up ing the show on casting. Nick dead for a Saturday night. Jalbert was made start, and The set was to play the role then where spare and clev- of Guildenstern. would you erly decorated He delivered be? He with, a yellow mind probing and might be vespa, a lot of truthful questions babbling or 60’s era painting such as: “the only he might and the album beginning is birth be making cover art from and the only end insightful many 60’s bands is death- if you connections, around the room can’t count on a distinc- thanks to Mr. that, what can you tion that the Paul Bloom- count on?” with audience field. The cos- the intelligence continued tumes were also title character Hamlet. They (Ros- intended. He was witty and believ- to attempt designed with encrantz and Guildenstern) think able in ways other actors would not to make great expertise it’s about them. have been. throughout the play. Priyanka due to the efforts of Mrs. Susan As a play, Rosencrantz and Priyanka played his not George presented these lines with Dziura. Guildenstern is fascinating; we use quite as insightful partner, Rosen- both conviction and comedy. The audience reaction our (possibly miniscule) knowl- crantz, whose favorite game is one Over the course of their to the play was overwhelmingly edge of Hamlet to piece together of heads and tails. journey, Rosencrantz and Guilden- positive and I hope that if you were the half-glimpsed, incomplete Rosencrantz is often times stern encounter a troupe of actors, not one of the audience members actions of the major hilarious known as the Tragedians. The fortunate enough to be in atten- players, whose famous with the leader of the group, known as the dance that you are feeling deeply scenes we see a line or occasional Player, indicates that the Trage- regretful for missing out on such a a moment at a time. touch of dians specialize in sexual perfor- wonderful performance. The Stoppard brilliance, mances and gives Rosencrantz and play is an unusual take throwing out Guildenstern the opportunity on the usually grim lines like to participate for a fee. The subject of death: very -- “We drift most notable Tragedians is Al- funny, very brilliant and down time, fred, played by Rachel Ostrom very chilling. The two clutching at ‘12, who is instructed to put on wanderers, Rosencrantz straws. But his skirt to perform The Rape and Guildenstern, idle what good’s of the Sabine Women. around the stage won- a brick to After the two title char- dering what roles they a drown- acters, the Player has the next are supposed to be ing man?” largest role. The Player, acted playing. Are they mes- -- that by Issa Best ‘13 is another sengers, hired assassins touch upon example of a character that or victims? One thing themes of seemed designed for one of the is certain: they are not heroes, death and time while, also deliver- Academy Players to fill. Issa although they may be martyrs of ing rambling, lines that are just as was expressive and dramatic, a kind. Rosencrantz and Guilden- funny as they are daunting. On the rarely uttering a sensible stern are classic fall guys, replace- subject of death, Rosencrantz says: phrase with perceptive lines able pawns. As they inevitably “one thinks of it like being alive in such as, “look on every exit as 6 Community On Your Mark, Get Set, Derby! from the renewed field hockey By JESSICA DUNCAN ‘11 strong, but Varsity Cross Country While they may not have contest, see story p. 3)..The Bun- Senior Editor Captain Christopher Glablicky ’11 finished among the leaders, many ion Derby is also one of the oldest was quick to take the lead. Gla- participants wore costumes. Max traditions still practiced today. On Tuesday, November 16, blicky finished first with a time Rankin ‘12 and Mr. Alrefae sported The Bunion Derby began Wilbraham and Monson Academy of 9 minutes 30 second. He was capes, while Mr. D’Avanzo dressed in 1944 as a competition between held its 64th Annual Bunion Derby. followed by teammates Trey Kelly like a Robot. An unnamed Santa the football and soc- The event is a 1.8-mile cer teams to see which race around “the Triangle” group was in better in which students and fac- shape. The original ulty run, walk, bike and Bunion Derby was scooter to the finish line. modeled after the 1929 This year, 78 students and Bunion Derby Foot faculty competed in the Race held in New York race. City. Since its creation, As students began over sixty races have to line up on Faculty been run and over Street, Mr. and Mrs. Mayor of ’12 (with a time of 10:10) and Clause showed up to run as well as 3,000 students have participated. the Bunion Derby, Kyle Sweeting Yuheng Fu with a time of (10:13). a middle school group called the Eventually the event expanded to ‘11 and Brittany Barry ‘11, spoke If there had been any competi- “Slow Pokes.” include all athletic teams, students to the crowd of competitors who tion between athletic teams, Boys Ms. Whipple said “the and pets on campus. huddled around them, anxious to Cross Country would have won Bunion Derby was a great suc- Today the event continues begin. Soon afterwards, Mr. Nich- the laurels, taking six of the top ten cess. 78 runners ran even though to grow. Each year, more people olson led the runners to the starting positions. it was a cloudy wet day. My fa- dress up in costumes and more line, yelled “take your mark” and Mr. Moran was the first fac- vorite part is seeing the costumes, people line up to run the grueling fired the gun. The competition had ulty member to place, running at and the runners crossing the finish two miles around the Triangle. begun! 10 minutes, 28 seconds, followed line.” “Mayor” Sweeting pointed All the runners started by Mr. Lombard on a scooter. out how “surprising” it is that so Madeline McClosky ’15, the first many people “volunteer to run female and middle school runner, two miles.” In no other event on took the 30th position with a time campus, do students and faculty to of 12:52. compete against one another (aside Community 7 Senior Smackdown in PowderPuff By ALEXANDRA COMEY‘12 class pride. them ready to usurp the seniors and especially with Mahoney and Staff Writer The senior class, clad in show them whose boss. They were Dhamodharan. Berg and Snyder their new t-shirts, included Allie coached by Elijah Barrows and also had two interceptions against The senior girls threw Arnieri, Casey Berg, Libby Hod- Jared Osumah. the junior class. The five touch- down the gauntlet to the juniors son, Aislinn Calabrese, Jackie Reffing the game was Der- downs were scored by Arnieri, and then preceded to back it up Smith, Chloe Snyder, Jeannette rick Barnagian ‘11, Tim O’Reilly Smith, Viens, and two from Kantor. with a resounding 30-12 victory in Viens, Jess Duncan, Rachael Kan- ‘11, and Max Rankin ‘12 in order Calabrese had the longest catch of Wilbraham & Mon- the game. son Academy;s third The juniors played a tough annual PowderPuff game as well, with Goncalves football game, held scoring both touchdowns. on November 18th. The junior defense, however, The game represents was inadequate to the senior a gender switch offense and were only able to because it is the girls stop them from scoring dur- playing while the ing one posession. Alas, when guys do the cheer- the time ran out, it was the leading. seniors who emerged victori- This year, ous, with their fans rushing to pump up the two from the sidelines, screaming classes and unify the teams, T- tor, Elise Dhamodharan, Sommer to provide unbiased judgments. their heads off. shirts were designed and sold to Mahoney, and Britt McFarlane. On the sidelines were many As senior coach Andrade the upperclassman for $8. For These girls looked fierce, and ready male cheerleaders. Supporting the said, “We came. We saw. We con- the seniors, it was a long sleeve to take on the juniors. The senior seniors were Jimmy Bernardo, quered.” black shirt with hot pink writing girls were coached by Matt Pajak, Jeremy Gilfor, Kurt Russavage, The game was played well that screamed “PowderPuff” with Davian Madho, and Jose Andrade. Christian Grenier, and Keoni by both sides and showed class and a football on the front and a giant The junior players included Colson, decked out in body paint school spirit (not to mention style). 11 on the back. For the juniors, Brianna Goncalves, Richelle Da- bikinis. Wearing short-shorts and Next year in the fourth official the colors were reversed and the vis, Gillian Callahan, Sara Tardiff, stuffed sports bras were Austin PowderPuff game, the senior class number 12 on the back. Needless Nika Hickson, Kaylee Walton, Little, Ryan Dahlen, and Christo- of 2012 will take on the new junior to say, everyone sporting their new Nicole Robitaille, Julia Bell, Teresa pher Lewis for the junior class. class of 2013. Good luck to both apparel looked snazzy and full of Kennedy, and Eva Landers; all of Senior defense was tough, teams! 8 Features WMA’S Worthy Weekends By MAX RANKIN ‘12 very to discuss larger placards with designs are Staff Writer dif- The students are the ones who participate in plans for spread around the dinning hall ferent the weekend activities, so they should have a student displaying the weekend plans. Now Have you ever felt alone class choice in what is offered. activities. students will no longer miss events at any point in your life? Well of sched- Their pri- simply because they did not know course you have! Feeling lonely ules and sports so we may never mary focus is to fill the weekends what was happening. is inevitable when one leaves the have met if it was not for the mod- with fun and engaging activities. The S.A.C is not the only comforts of home for a new envi- ern art displays at the Mass Mutual This year, says Ragnauth, “we are creator of weekend activities. The ronment. Many of us did just that Center. We became inseparable trying for a large variety of ac- group constantly seeks input from when we left for life at Wilbraham after that. tivities on the weekends; we want students on potential activities. If and Monson Academy. Many weekend activities them to be fun for everyone.” you have a request for a weekend The first few days of my occur here at WMA. Some of Another member of the activity then “just talk to one of time here at WMA were the lone- them that have taken place within committee, Watson, says it is us,” says Ragnauth. “We will do liest that I had ever spent. It was this school include: an opening- because of the group’s leadership our best to make the event hap- the first time I had left my home of-the-year and Halloween dance, that the activities have reached “a pen”. By dropping by Mrs. Nor- and my family for more than two movie showings, open gym, and new level”. Mrs. Norman and Mr. man’s and Mr. Lombard’s office or weeks. I remember going to the my personal favorite, a haunted Lombard devote much of their time emailing any member of the S.A.C, first all school meeting and not house. The most exciting weekend to creating and running student your ideas will be heard and they knowing anyone’s name. Every activities are often the ones off activities. Their work is certainly will be discussed at the weekly face was one that I had never laid campus. Bowling, laser tag, rock noticed and greatly appreciated. meetings. After all, the students eyes one before. climbing, mall trips and late night One of the largest improve- are the ones who participate in the However, my feelings of snack runs only scratch the sur- ments to weekend activities this weekend activities, so they should loneliness slowly went away as face of this impressive list. year is how events are announced have a say. I started to make friends through Mrs. Norman, Mr. to the school. Besides the online So the lesson I would like classes and sports. Along with Lombard, and the members of activities folder in First Class, to leave with you is: take chances the routine of school, I began to the Student Activities Committee weekend activities are now color- in life. participate in the weekend activi- (S.A.C) Steven Ragnauth’12, Issa fully displayed through out the You can start small through ties. Dances and trips of various Best’14, Olivia Milne’14, Brooke campus. This is noticeable on the weekend activities, because you kinds were all fun, but a trip to an Mele’11, Scott Watson’11, Trey board outside the bookstore. The never know what wonderful sur- art show had the most influence Kelly’12, Wing-Ho Chan’13, Lucia entire wall is filled with all of the prises are waiting for you once you on me. It was there that I met my Biggel’12, Kelsey Gomez’13 and events which students can par- take a chance. soon-to-be best friend. We had Karime Saad’12, meet once a week take in during the weekend. Also, Ask Atlas: Embarassing Situations By ATLAS she’s really far away! I just don’t Dear Alarmed, my life with a special someone. I Titan-in-Chief know how much longer I can hold No way bro. If something as dumb mean, it was fan-tastic. But here’s out. as a car alarm going off turns her the thing. Since then, I literally Dear Atlas, Signed, off, then she’s not good enough for haven’t said one word to him, and Recently I was confronted by a Locks of Love you. As far as her dad, if you are he hasn’t said one thing to me. powerful moral and ethical di- such an upstanding gentleman as We don’t even acknowledge each lemma. I approached one of the you claim, then you’ll be fine. other’s existence. Did I do some- single stall bathrooms in the gym Dear LOL, thing wrong? What do I do now? and knocked on the door. No an- I know this guy is probably hot, Dear Atlas, Signed, swer. I figured maintenance forgot but I bet he’s more than just a Ever since junior year, I’ve hated Worry Wart to open it, so I left, only to come gorgeous head of hair. You should family gatherings. All I ever get back shortly after to find not one, learn to like him for more – what asked is: “where are you going to Dear Wart, but TWO people leaving the stall! if he gets it cut? Are you just going college?;” and “what are you go- I think you’ve done the right thing What is the proper etiquette here? to move on to the next sexy flow? ing to major in?” It’s so annoying! so far. Seems to me like not talking Signed, As for the girlfriend, just do your How do I keep my cool? to this guy, and pretending like he Bathroom Business thing. If he’s a good guy, he’ll do Signed, doesn’t exist is the best possible the right thing and stay with her, or Tense About the Future course of action. What do you hope Dear Business, break up with her and then come to gain from talking to him? You The proper etiquette is to pretend running to you. And if he decides Dear Future Tense, seem completely sane, 100% put you didn’t notice anything unusual. to cheat, well, then all he has going The way I see it, you’ve got two together, and on the road to suc- In fact, you should probably just for him is his hair. options. One, you can freak out and cess. So keep on living your life, in forget you ever saw anything. scream at your poor Grandma Har- silence and happiness. Or roll the Scenes like this will scar you for riet about how you have no idea dice and go to another school func- life. Next time, do what I do when Dear Atlas, what you want to do. Two, you can tion. It couldn’t be worse than what I have to mix with the demigods. I recently met my girlfriend’s be polite, and remember that in just you’re going through (or could it?) Knock and call out a simple, “Yo. dad. Everything was going pretty a short amount of time, you won’t Anyone in there?” Then throw a smoothly and I was ready to put ever have to see them again. And, Dear Atlas, bolt under the door. That usually an end on a pretty sweet evening when in doubt, just tell her what So recently I got a little too friend- works. when -- as I was opening the car she wants to here: that you are ly with my best friends boyfriend. door for her like the gentlemen that waiting to here from Harvard. Am I a bad person? I am -- I set off the car alarm. Am Signed, Dear Atlas, I the biggest doofus ever and did I BFF There’s this boy in my grade with blow it with my honey? hair that makes me… well let’s Signed, Dear Atlas, Dear BFF, just say it stands the test of time. Alarmed in Agawam Last year at a school function, Yes. Problem is: he has a girlfriend. But I spent two of the best hours of Features 9 From the Trading Thanksgiving Favorites Center... “I like Thanksgiving mostly for the nostalgic feelings it brings. Thanksgiving arouses the feelings of a warm home after coming in from the chilly outside to rest after a family game of football. Most of the foods at Thanksgiving, despite the fact that they are all basically mush and can be related to baby food, just have a nostalgic air to them. My favorites are turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. Plus Thanksgiving is just a prelude to Christmas time, which really is the most wonder- ful time of the year.” Brendan Simons ‘11 By MELISSA DONOHUE “I like Thanksgiving break because I can spend some time with my family. I like Faculty Writer to have turkey for Thanksgiving dinner because of the chemicals that help me sleep and relax. And, you know, it’s good to have a break from dealing with the third I am a financial geek, and derivative.” I’m not ashamed to admit it. So Mr. Fischer how did I get here? After college I “I know what Thanksgiving is but I’ve never celebrated it worked with families at the height before. Last year, I went back to Japan during Thanksgiv- of the homeless crisis in NYC. ing break and went to the crazy Black Friday—I didn’t even know it was related to Thanksgiving till now! While this year I’m still going After working with welfare offices back to Japan, where really no one celebrates it, since I know more about Thanks- and legal aid attorneys trying to giving and understand why Americans do it, I think I will have a big dinner with help these families, it dawned on not only my parents and brother, but also my grandparents, and thank them for their me. To make things better I only kindness and care for me.” needed to know more about one Megumi Aoki ‘12 thing: Money. I was fortunate to earn a “I guess my favorite part of Thanksgiving is watching the Thanksgiving parade fellowship to Columbia University because I lived in New York City. I love to see my family, sing karaoke, watch the where I discovered finance. I took football games with them and then go to sleep. I recommend people help out with international finance and economic Thanksgiving dinner because it makes people feel like a family. ” courses, while interning at a Swiss Issa Best ‘13 bank. It was there I learned about “This year is my first year in America. I’ve never cel- money from people who loved it, ebrated Thanksgiving before in Vietnam, but I knew it was and knew how to make it. a traditional American festival and people ate turkeys. When this Thanksgiving This left me with a great comes, I’ll go to Washington D.C. with my aunt, whose husband is the Vietnamese love of finance and an even stron- ambassador in the U.S. I plan to make a Thanksgiving meal with my Vietnam- ger inclination to not lose other ese friends in D.C. And the thing that I’m sure is I WILL SHOP A LOT on Black people’s money. After a two-year Friday!” stint on the roller coaster ride that Quang Truong ‘12 was emerging markets banking in the 1990’s, I became a financial “I love Thanksgiving meals, especially mashed potatoes, gravy, and Aunt Cathy’s reporter. apple pie—they are so good! When I was in college, I went back home to Rochester, As a journalist for 10 New York every year to see family. But now, I’m graduated from college and away years, I had the opportunity to from home. So I’ll go back home and have dinner with my parents and other family cover financial crises and interview members. After that, I’m going to my friend’s house to spend the rest of the break. It international central bank heads, is just great to be with family and friends.” finance ministers, and some of the Miss Decker greatest economic minds of the “I know Thanksgiving is a big celebration in the U.S., but since there is no such time. Working in the global finan- thing in Russia, I don’t pay that much attention on it. Instead, I think I’ll just take cial markets for the better part of advantage of the break and have some rest and freedom. That’s what my Thanksgiv- my adult life has left me with a few ing celebration is about—freedom!” things I can say with certainty: Sergey Kalvarskiy ‘11 1. Money may not buy happiness, “For me, Thanksgiving is a break that makes me happy. but it makes the world go round. During last Thanksgiving I went back to Korea and met 2. Economics is about human my friends in other schools. I also studied. This year, I’m behavior. staying in the U.S. for the break and planning to go on some college visits in Bos- 3. Understanding how to access ton. This time, I want to eat different kinds of food from other countries and meet capital is a critical part of life. new friends. It might be my special way to celebrate Thanksgiving this year!” 4. Whether you want to help Sally Oh’13 people escape poverty, earn enough “Well, I don’t really celebrate Thanksgiving, but it is fun because it is a chance for to support your family, or become me to meet up with my sisters. My parents are coming over this week, so I’ll get rich beyond your wildest dreams, to spend time with them too. Plus, the Muslim festival of Eid is about a week or you need to understand how money so before Thanksgiving, so I get an opportunity to celebrate that during my break. works. Other than that, I’m just looking forward to chilling and getting a break from The livelihood of you, your school, should be fun!” friends, and your children will Tashfiq Mannin ‘12 depend on your understanding of economics and finance, both on a “Thanksgiving favorites? Before I came to the states I personal and global level. Under- knew a lot about the American traditional celebration. standing money and finance is the So for me, everything about it is interesting! I’m staying at Teresa Kennedy’s ‘12 first step and best hope for taking house during break. It is really exciting because it’s the first time I will experience care of yourself and your family, Thanksgiving. I will have a real thanksgiving dinner that I have been expecting for especially during those financial a long time. I want to try turkey and pumpkin pie! And of course, I’ll help them storms. prepare the dinner. Again, I’m just so excited to experience the American traditional So maybe financial geek- celebration!” dom is not a bad path after all… Lucia Biggel ‘12 10 Global It’s Not Just About the Turkey By ARNELLE WILLIAMS ‘13 Loewen’s “Lies is hidden in one of the many Staff Writer My Teacher Told galettes that is cooked. After Me” states that eating all those galettes, who- What does giving thanks such festivals had ever finds the feve is crowned mean to you? What are you thank- been occurring King or Queen of the celebra- ful for? Many people around the for hundreds of tion. world take time out of their fast years and that the Mexicans also celebrate lives to give thanks and to spend oversimplification the Epiphany, called the “Dia time with families and friends. of the Pilgrims’ de los Reyes Magos,” which People take time to reminisce on experience is not means “Three Kings Day”. past events and to praise the suc- only incorrect ,but Celebrated on the 6th of Janu- cesses in their life. also ethnocentric. ary, this day is in reference The United States and Can- month of the Chinese Lunar Calen- Our view on what we dar. Many people admire Qu Yuan to the three wise kings, or magis, ada celebrates Thanksgiving Day, a perceive Thanksgiving to be, who gave gifts to Jesus when he holiday whose original purpose is for his patriotism and his poets. Pilgrims in their Sunday’s best “China is so big, but for was born. Traditionally, families to express thankfulness, gratitude with not properly clothed Indians eat rosca de reyes which is bread and appreciation to God, for family some reasons there are no rivers in the woods feasting, did not even to do the Dragon boat ritual, so in- with fruits on top and three objects and friends. Traditionally, it has involve Pilgrims initially. Thanks- with the shape of children inside been a time to give thanks for a stead we eat the traditional Zongzi giving wasn’t with lots of friends and family,” (the child representing baby Jesus). even called said Vivian Wang ‘11. Similar to the French, whoever Thanksgiv- “Everyone eats Zongzi,” said finds these objects in their piece ing until the Claire Bi ‘11. 1800’s. In Australia does the 1870’s, It not have a day of wasn’t until thanks, but have a day 1890 that with similar traditions. the tradition Australians celebrate included the Australia Day annu- Pilgrims. ally on 26th of January. Even though Family and marks the George arrival of the First Fleet Washington in Sydney. The national did reserve holiday is more about days for national thanksgiving, bountiful harvest. Today, Thanks- spending time together. our modern Thanksgiving celebra- Friends and family join giving Day has moved away from tions only date back to 1863 when its spiritual roots and has become each other for a special the Union during the civil war era meal--an afternoon barbeque that more commercialized using a big needed as much patriotism as it of bread is chosen to host a party feast with the turkey as its center- centers around not turkey, but roast can receive. That’s when Abraham lamb. It is one of the key aspects to on “el dia de la calendaria” which piece. Lincoln made the last Thursday in is on the 2nd of February. On that But it wasn’t always that the national holiday. Lamb in Aus- November a Thanksgiving holiday. tralia is very expensive, but still day, more traditional Mexican food way. “The true story of Thanksgiv- But, Thanksgiving wasn’t made an is eaten such as tamales and cham- ing reveals embarrassing facts,” worth the buy. “We really value official national holiday not until our tradition of eating lamb,” says purrado. Ms. Barnes-Vallandingham, the 1941, World War II era. So on these national holi- school archivist and history buff, Scott Watson. Today, the view on Thanks- The celebration of the days, when we are blessed to have says. For example, the Pilgrims did giving has definitely changed. the day off from work or school not introduce this tradition; East- Epiphany in France in early Janu- Most families don’t recognize the ary brings many people together to and enjoy some peace and relax- ern Indians have been observing history behind it but mostly focus ation, it is not about the food we autumnal harvest celebrations for eat les galettes des rois. The galette on family values and the coming des rois or “wafers of kings” is a eat. It is not about the Zongzi, the centuries. In Nathaniel Philbrick’s together of loved ones. roast lamb, les galettes des rois, book, it states that in the fall of brioche, a traditional French bread, But the U.S. shaped like a crown with fruits rosca de reyes, or even about the and Canada either incorporated in the cake or turkey. It’s about the people we aren’t the only used as a garnish. Many people choose to eat this meal with, our countries that participate in a contest to find the family and friends who mean so celebrate fam- feve. A feve is a French bean that much to us as we come together ily and friends to give thanks to for values. all our opportunities In China, and experiences in legend has it, life. that Fishermen Atlas would like to race in boats give a big thank you to the Miluo to all its readers and River in search contributors! for Qu Yuan’s body. They throw Zongzi, 1621 there was indeed a celebra- a special kind of dumpling made of tion in Plymouth, but it consisted glutinous rice wrapped in bamboo of hundreds of Pokankets, led by leaves to fish to salvage his body. Massasoit, who overwhelmed the In China, the Dragon Boat Festi- settlers with their autumnal cel- val is celebrated in great devotion ebration. An excerpt from James of Qu Yuan on the 5th of the fifth Sports 11 Barry, Colson, Marcus are Titanic Trio

By JASON DUKE ‘11 month of Octo- “pretty success- rusher in the Colonial League. Col- Staff Writer ber. Ben Marcus ful compared to son was also a force on defense; continued his [her] recent years he was credited with 16 tackles in Brittany Barry ‘11, Keoni strong play for at WMA”. Though October. Colson ‘11 and Ben Marcus ‘12 the varsity water Barry’s scoring is Colson said “all of [his] were announced as the October polo squad, and obviously impor- efforts as a member of the team Athletes of the Month at the fall as a result scored tant to the teams [were] to lead by example as best varsity sports banquet on Novem- his 100th career overall success, [he] could”. With Colson’s strong ber 15. Brittany Barry, who is one goal. which is demon- play and leadership, the Titans of the captains of the girl’s varsity Brittany strated by the fact were able to go 2-3 for the month soccer team, led her team to an- Barry was named that she recently of October. On receiving Athlete of other strong season. Keoni Colson, female Athlete of broke the career the Month, Colson commented: “I a running back and linebacker for the Month for her scoring record did my job and what was expected the varsity football team, put on strong October on for WMA with of me, nothing less”. several strong performances in the the soccer pitch. 79 goals in just Barry said that three years at the Ben Marcus had a historic winning the award was “unexpect- school, she says that she also helps month of October for the Varsity ed” and that she is “very grateful” the team by “being [there] for [her] Water Polo team. He scored his for it. Scoring 11 goals and record- teammates on and off the soccer 100th career goal on October 9th ing 3 assists, she led her team to an field”. against Canterbury. On his way undefeated 6-0 record in the month to this milestone, Marcus said he of October, including a first-ever Keoni Colson put together was able to lead the team “during win against Loomis Chaffee at a good season in the month of games with scoring” throughout home. In that match, Barry would October while playing running the month and season as he added record a hat trick as she scored back and linebacker for the varsity to this milestone total. all three goals in the Titans 3-nil football team. According to Marcus, be- victory. The team also added wins Colson had 80 carries for ing awarded Athlete of the Month against Williston, Canterbury, 440 yards during the month. His “means a lot and is appreciated that Northfield Mount Hermon, Ethel longest run was 66 yards in a los- even for an unpopular sport you Walker, and Pomfret. ing effort against a very tough Ta- can be noticed”. Also, he noted, the This strong month set bor team. For the game, he rushed accolade also reflects how he “im- the girl’s varsity soccer team up for a total of 130 yards on 12 proved a lot since last year.”The for a deep run into the playoffs. carries. For the month, he tallied a Varsity Water Polo team went 2-4 Barry said that the month -- and total of three rushing touchdowns in October, with all the games be- the season as a whole -- have been and he was the second leading ing extremely close. A Bicentennial Win By NICHOLAS SARNO ‘11 Championship in 1998 (team Staff Writer was captained by Mr. Lago’s son), a 2002 NE Champion- In any sport, the most ship semifinal in which Coach passionate players and coaches Cook’s son scored two goals dream of reaching certain (that team was led by Coach benchmarks or breaking certain Nick’s son), and the 2006 records. For Boys Varsity Soc- Championship victory (led by cer coach Gary Cook, the 2010 Mr. D’Avanzo’s son Andy and season was especially memo- All-American Greg Balicki). “A rable. On October 23, he earned lot of history there,” he ob- his 200th career win at home served. But Coach Cook added: with a 3-2 win over Cheshire “you remember the losses Academy. more.” He noted: “I’ve coached Coach Cook started his the sons of my friends, friends quest towards the 200-win mark of my son and have even be- when he began his coaching ca- come friends with the parents of reer following his playing days my players.” in high school (he was a three- Coach Cook is the first to JV soccer at Amherst High School knowledge of coaching and the sport athlete at Hopkins Academy share responsibility for this accom- and then, for the fall of 1979, was aspects of the job. Parsons was in soccer, basketball and baseball) plishment, “Two hundred wins is hired by Wilbraham & Monson involved with the National Soccer and college (he played soccer at a bi-product of lots of players,” he Academy. His first couple years, he Coaches Association (NSCA), and the University of Massachusetts). declared. Years and years of teams worked with former UMass team- connected Coach Cook to Peter Coach Cook decided he wanted to and players contributed to the 200, mate Mike Parsons, who was head Gooding, the Athletic Director of teach and coach after a very posi- including this years squad. “I’m coach of the WMA varsity soccer Amherst College. Gooding recom- tive experience working at a day glad this year’s team is a part of team at the time. mended Cook for coaching school camp in high school. 200, even with the bad season we In 1981, Coach Cook and urged him to apply for work During a semester of suffered this year.” Cook says “It succeeded Parson as head coach with the NSCA. And WMA sup- student teaching in his senior year was a real relief that I hit the 200 and the rest, as he would say, is ported Coach Cook in his work at UMass, Coach Cook was of- mark, but lets move onto another history. As a college-level player, with the NSCA. fered the chance to coach soccer target.” He put it all in perspective: the transition from player to coach Asked about special games at Greenfield Junior High School. “After dad and husband, my favor- came easily for Cook. His father out of the 200 wins, Coach Cook From there, he coached a season of ite thing to be called is Coach.” was a baseball coach, so Cook had rattled off his first New England 12 Sports Band of Brothers Tops All Expectations By TIMOTHY O’REILLY ‘11 sports teams on campus.. went crazy” upon hearing their aspect that can’t be overlooked. Staff Writer For many of the runners, results. This joyous response is fit- Commented Glabicky, “Coach cross-country has become more ting given their season’s beginning. Moran [is] very dedicated to us It is rare to find a team that than a sport; it’s a brotherhood. At the start of preseason, and the sport.” On the outside, it has truly become a family--where As third year head coach Daniel Coach Moran surveyed his small may appear as if Moran is hard on everyone supports one another and Moran explained, this year’s team group and felt they would be lucky the team, but to his runners he is a grows together as a unit. When has a collective heart and soul that to repeat their 6th place finish at coach and a friend. examining the various boys varsity is rare in such an individual sport. New Englands. “Expectations Because the Titans are sports programs at When Moran mentioned the were low” Moran explained. But losing their number one runner WMA, many teams “soul of the team” he meant Glabicky (who placed 6th overall would not be de- Co-Captain Branden Piquette in the finals), it might appear that scribed as such a ‘11, who according to second the team will once again fade into unit. But there is one year runner Wing-Ho Chan the background of WMA’s sports team, one family, that ’13, “is the root of brotherhood scene. But the team is only gradu- for years has never in the team. He knows how to ating two seniors and their success garnered much atten- pull us together with his jokes.” should continue for years to come. tion and has been on The “heart and mind” of the They still have a very the lower end of the team would be the Titans’ other strong group of runners, includ- Academy’s hierarchy captain, Chris Glabicky ’11. ing Joseph Thibault ‘13 (17th at of fall sports: Boy’s Boy’s Cross-Country has been New Englands) and Trey Kelly Cross-Country. quietly improving for the past ’12 (24th), the number two and Generally three seasons, aided by a new three runners on the team. They overshadowed by head coach and strong run- are followed by a group of young silly contact sports ners. In 2007, the WMA squad runners— Chan, Aaron Griffith that involve balls, placed 13th out of 14 teams in ’13, and one unexpected junior, people have an ill- the NEPSTA division IV cross- 10 weeks and 400 miles (per Yuheng (Allen) Fu ‘12, who has conceived notion that country finals. In Moran’s first person) later, the team had made been the biggest surprise, accord- running is not a “real” sport. This year, coincidently also Glabicky’s up for their slow start. The sum of ing to Piquette and Glabicky. Al- could not be further from the truth. first, the Titans finished in an im- the team’s success was perfectly len finished 36th at New Englands Running requires strength, speed, proved 10th place. The following wrapped up by Chan, “I loved and ended up as the team’s 4th best and endurance; and the cross coun- year, the team continued its upward seeing how we improved because runner. try team has been getting steadily growth and placed 6th out of 16 in the beginning of the season, This “rag tag” group of better for several years. This year, teams. In 2010, the team captured Gunnery beat us by a lot, but in Titans has grown to be not only with their 4th place finish at the 4th place, missing the top three by New Englands we beat them by A a dominant force on the cross New Englands, the team staked a meager four points. Neverthe- LOT!” country course, but also a band of their claim as one of the best male less, Piquette said that the “team The guidance of Moran is one brothers. X-Country Finishing School By TIMOTHY MANGHAN ‘11 where the Titans didn’t have the re- all and first for the team. The rest Staff Writer quired amount of runners to place, of the team ran well too and de- Small-Towns finished in 22nd out feated Hyde and MacDuffie, who Similar to the boys’ team, of 153 with her second fastest time didn’t have enough runners. How- the WMA Girls Cross Country of the year. Following her was ever, the Titans lost to Cheshire team is often overlooked. Also Mia Konstantakos ’13 who ran leaving their record 3-1 through similar to the boys, the girls had her season-best time in a second two meets. A week later, the Titans a good year, led by young talent. place (on the team) finish. In other traveled to an under-manned Ham- Marissa Small-Towns ’14 led the invitational meets, Small-Towns den Hall school who only had two team in every race except one, continued to show her dominance runners and improved their record when she trailed fellow freshman even as a freshman with two other to 4-1. Small-Towns won again, Megan Pehoviak. The team fin- top 25 finishes. followed by Kat Corbett ’11 in ished the season with an impres- In their first official meet second. Konstantakos beat Maria sive 5-3 record in non-invitational of the season, the Titans set the Slater ’14 by a single second to meets. Small-Towns also had winning attitude they had for the come in fourth place. Maria then In their last duel meet of the sea- several very good finishes in the rest of the season. Running on the beat Co-captain Sara Tardiff ’12 son, WMA traveled to Worcester invitational meets. road against MacDuffie, they com- by only 12 seconds for 5th and 6th Academy. WA entered the meet Although in some races, pletely dominated all race long. places. undefeated and left the same way, the team did not have enough run- Crossing the finish line, all eight Six days later, on Parent’s beating the Titans 21-40. WMA ners to qualify or win the race, the Titan runners were in the top 10. Weekend, the Titans had their only was led by Pehoviak ,who was Titans still ran well with who they The Titans won comfortably 23-38 home meet of the year. Look- later named WMA Female Athlete had. In an invitational at Williston in a sport where, like golf, the low ing to improve their impressive of the Week following her sixth- score wins. Following the race, record, they hosted two schools, place finish. head coach Ms. Kelly exclaimed: Kingswood-Oxford and Suffield. The WMA cross-country “It will be exciting to see what the The Titans had “a fantastic day” team had a very strong year over- Girls Varsity X-Country team can according to Coach Kelly, as all. Not many on campus will real- do during the rest of our season!” Small-Towns, Pehoviak, Corbett, ize that they were one of the best Three weeks later, follow- Konstantakos and Tardiff were the teams this fall, having not one, but ing two invitationals, the Titans Titans’ top five. Both meets were two different Athletes of the Week, traveled to Cheshire where they very close as WMA beat KO by Small-Towns and Pehoviak. Next also raced Hyde and MacDuffie. one point, 27-28, but unfortunately fall, they’re going to continue to Small-Towns was strong once could not beat Suffield, losing 33- stake their claim as one of the great again in her third place finish over- 26, bringing their record to 5-2. teams on campus.