Northwest

November 2012 Passages VOLUME XLVIII Northwest Catholic, 29 Wampanoag Drive, Connecticut, 06117

Ninety Miles to Havana Author Addresses NWC Community By Jenna Jordano way to guarantee their chil- experiences. As for his second dren’s safety: by getting them day, Mr. Flores-Galbis spoke Over the course of two days, out of Cuba. As a part of this to the freshman and junior the Northwest Catholic com- mass exodus, Mr. Flores-Gal- classes. He shared different munity had the honor to meet bis and his two older brothers topics with his new audi- one of the 14,000 children to were shipped to a refugee ence. Instead of the writing leave Cuba in 1961, Enrique camp in southern Florida. He process, he shared the culture Flores-Galbis. As a child, enlightened our community and history of Cuba. He was not only with his also able to answer any other compelling novel questions about the writing 90 Miles to Havana, process and Cuban culture but also with the that were lingering among experiences that he a select group of students.

shared in person. These students had been Art Rich Photography On his first day at selected based on essays they Flores-Galbis shares his journey with a Senior English class. Northwest Catholic, had written about his novel, was especially educational Children’s Book list, and Mr. Flores-Galbis which was a required sum- and emotional and therefore The Cooperative Children’s shared his insights mer reading assignment. This a perfect pick. In fact, this Book Center’s Choice Award. on creativity and summer reading selection novel has received Mr. Flores-Galbis is a gifted the writing process several honors for writer who depicted Hispanic to the sophomore this very reason. culture and Cuban history and senior classes. Some of these with grace and intelligence. Additionally, he honors include the As a school community, both spoke to various Association for the faculty and students were senior English Library Service lucky to have met such an Flores-Galbis points out information in classes to enhance

Art Rich Photography to Children and insightful, creative man. Prior his presentation. his thoughts with REFORMA, The to leaving he said, “Anyone Enrique Flores-Galbis was a smaller audience. These National Coun- can write as long as you know separated from his parents in insights were about how cil for the Social a little about the process.” the midst of the mass exodus to use one’s imagination in Studies Exception- This statement left all of the named “Operation Pedro order to develop a creative al Children’s Book Northwest Catholic commu- Pan.” This became a reality in element to their work. Not list, Bank Street nity determined to take his the 1960s when parents feared only did he give information Best Children’s wisdom into their own hands the indoctrination of their on his writing process, but Books of the Year, for future use. It was a unique children and that Fidel Castro also he shared his poetry and would take away their paren- Association for and fruitful experience to hear artwork. His poetry consisted Art Rich Photography Library Service to from a talented artist who tal authority. Parents believed of fictional imagery whereas One of many works of art painted by Flores- Children Notable was also a witness to history. this operation was the only his artwork portrayed his life Galbis. The Class of 2014 Steps Into New Role at Junior Investiture Ceremony By Maggie Rose grow closer as a class. The celebration of the Eucharist, their new leadership roles in This was held in the form of ceremony began with a Mass Father Crowley, Northwest’s the school. Words of wisdom a short prayer service lead by On the afternoon of Monday, attended by the entire faculty Chaplain, blessed the crosses were presented to the class of Madison Mortilaro ‘14 and October 22nd, the class of and student body. In his hom- that would be presented to 2014 by junior class president Anne Berning ‘14; with reflec- 2014 finally became invested ily, Deacon Santos invited the each junior. These crosses Owen Eagan ‘14 and senior tions from Mrs. Williamson as upperclassmen of North- juniors to think about their are meant to symbolize God class president Amanda Walt- and Chris Gosselin ‘14. One west. This long-awaited God-given greatness. He im- and His faith in the junior man ‘13. Amanda spoke about focus at the evening event Angela Miguel ‘15 Angela Miguel ‘15 Angela Miguel ‘15 Angela Miguel ‘15 Father Crowley blessed the crosses Brendan Fox ‘13 and Gabri Beaulieu ‘14, Savannah Gaston ‘13, Molly Connor Dunn ‘14 and Ryan Coursey ‘13 to be given to the juniors. Luke Foran ‘14 McDonald ‘14, and Gabrielle Giangreco ‘13 ceremony welcomed this class plored them not to “hide their class in their last two years being the best you can be, was on the parents of juniors. into their new positions of lights under a bushel basket.” in high school and beyond. quoting President Abraham Each junior presented his or responsibility and leadership. The Mass fell on the feast day Each junior was accompanied Lincoln, in saying “whatever her parents with a carnation The junior class spent the en- of blessed John Paul II, and by one or two members of you are, be a good one.” That to thank them for all of the tire morning on retreat. This Deacon Santos shared with the senior class. These senior evening, there was a separate love and support that they retreat took the students on a the community some of the sponsors will act as a support ceremony for the juniors to give. It was a milestone the spiritual journey to help them great Pope’s words. After the system as the juniors take attend with their parents. Class of 2014 will treasure. NWC Page 2 Editorials November 2012

Nicholas’ Notes On October 21st, Pope Letter from the Vice Principal Benedict XVI celebrated the canonization of seven new saints. Among them was Kat- Greetings NWC Family, The goals of our NWC eri Tekakwitha. In his homily, It gives me great pride and community are to continue Pope Benedict described the excitement to write to you as building a tradition saint’s inspiring life. the new Vice Principal / Dean of successful student of Students for Northwest achievement, a commitment Holiness always rises up Catholic High School. I am so to effective classroom in the Church from the very impressed and humbled instruction, and a dedication well-spring of the mys- by the work the NWC faculty, to doing whatever it takes tery of redemption, as staff, students and families to promote the overall foretold by the prophet have done with the school well-being of students and Isaiah in the first reading: community by creating a continuing to develop strong the Servant of the Lord positive culture and climate servant-leaders who will be is the righteous one who and developing exemplary contributing members of “shall make many to be ac- teaching practices that will society. These are the values I counted as righteous; and prepare all of our students for cherish and the commitment he shall bear their iniqui- college and career success. that I bring with me to You, the unified NWC family, Northwest Catholic. My wife

ties” (Is 53:11); this Servant Caroline O’Neill is Jesus Christ, crucified, should also be commended Lori, my daughter Brianna Mr. Canny risen and living in glory. for the cultivation of a school and I are simply thrilled to The partnership we begin one another, rather than text Today’s canonization is community that has a culture now be a part of your school this year, as one school or post your feelings. And an eloquent confirmation that honors academic success, family and community. community - one NWC family most important of all, think of this mysterious sav- leadership, service, respect, Although, being a former - is the greatest asset we have before you act. Make good ing reality. The tenacious Catholicism and personal student, athlete, and coach in maintaining the success of choices and remember that profession of faith of these pride. here at NWC, I feel as though last 50 years and the goals we everything counts. Stay seven generous disciples of James Comer, an Educational I have always been a part of have for the future in order focused on your learning and Christ, their configuration Reformist from New York the family. to continue the success our have a great year! to the Son of Man shines City, once defined a school I am pleased to report that the school community. out brightly today in the community as “partnerships school is well positioned for My advice this year for you whole Church. with families while building success this year and beyond. as a student of Northwest STAFF Kateri Tekakwitha was and fostering relationships Of course, much work is still Catholic is to get involved. Editor-in-Chief born in today’s New York with all parties involved in to be done in building on Join a club or an activity, Jenna Jordano state in 1656 to a Mohawk the development of the school the school’s tremendous 50 volunteer with friends, choose father and a Christian Al- and the students.” years of academic excellence. to serve those around you. Executive Board gonquin mother who gave Northwest Catholic not only Adding new students, new Put down the cell phones James Jordano to her a sense of the living epitomizes this example of staff members, new courses and the electronic devices, Jessica Jordano God. She was baptized at school community but the and all of the physical take a break from the social Emily Kearney twenty years of age and, NWC community takes this improvements, NWC is on media websites and truly Maggie Rose to escape persecution, much further. When you are the cusp of the next step in its invest in your own education Mary Royer she took refuge in Saint a part of Northwest, you truly organizational development by becoming a contributing Francis Xavier Mission feel a part of an extended and I am pleased and honored member to the Northwest Staff Writers & Editors near Montreal. There she family that nurtures, cares to be a part of this process. Catholic Community. Be kind Annie Berning worked, faithful to the and looks out for one another. It truly is an exciting time. to one another and talk to traditions of her people, Taylor Borowiec although renouncing their Gillian Coleman religious convictions until Alice D’Arcangelo her death at the age of Emma Deneen Letter from the Editor Grace Deneen twenty-four. Leading a simple life, Kateri re- Lindsay Dombrosky mained faithful to her love by Maggie Rose for a full two years, it’s safe to impression on me. He related Own Eagan for Jesus, to prayer and to say that we know our school life to a geode, a rock that is Kelly Geelan daily Mass. Her greatest I can remember back to fresh- like the backs of our hands. It ugly and dark on the outside, Zach Hesketh wish was to know and to man year, attending my first is our turn to step up, to lead but colorful and crystalline Matthew Marshall do what pleased God. She Junior Investiture ceremony. our younger classmates, and on the inside. As we travel Molly McDonald lived a life radiant with As I watched, all I could to take responsibility for our through life, we have two Adam Mendoza faith and purity. think was “that is going to be school. As juniors, we can- options: we can choose to live Ryan Murphy me in two years.” I knew it not fall back into the roles of life on the ugly side or the Caitlin O’Sullivan Kateri impresses us by the would be a big responsibil- followers; we must assume pretty side. On the ugly side, Liza Oakley action of grace in her life ity, but I never knew how the positions of leaders. We we choose to ignore the great Mary Kate Rogers in spite of the absence of much it would really mean. things in life and don’t take Jack Shea external help and by the Junior Investiture is not just advantage of all the opportu- courage of her vocation, a ceremony, but an oppor- nities we’re given. By accept- Staff Photographers so unusual in her culture. tunity given to us to help us ing our new roles as juniors, Kevin LeBlanc In her, faith and culture realize the importance of our we are choosing to live on the Angela Miguel enrich each other! May new roles. Becoming a junior pretty side of the rock. We are Caroline O’Neill her example help us to means a lot more than just choosing to see the positive live where we are, loving starting a new grade, it means side of what being a junior Advisor Jesus without denying that everything is changing. entails. Junior year does come Mrs. Monica who we are. Saint Kateri, Academically, it is the most Google Images with challenging academic Kirschmann A geode: rough on the outside, Protectress of Canada and important year of our high work, but it also comes with beautiful on the inside. Northwest Passages the first native American school careers. This is the last the chance to make a differ- Northwest Catholic saint, we entrust to you the full year that colleges look ence in our school. To be great High School renewal of the faith in the at, and it is not going to be are going to affect the lives of role models we must find that 29 Wampanoag Drive first nations and in all of easy. The work will be tough, everyone around us.The un- perfect balance between keep- West Hartford, CT 06117 Phone: (860)236-4221 North America! May God but if we are willing to put in derclassmen will look to us as ing our grades strong, while Fax: (860) 586-0911 bless the first nations! the effort, we will be able to models; they will mimic our staying engaged and enthu- push through it. Socially, our actions and attitudes. It is our siastic about school activities. *Editor’s Note: Opinions lives and responsibilities are responsibility to make sure Once we find this balance expressed changing as well. We no lon- that we set the best example there is no doubt in my mind in Northwest Passages are not necessarily those of the *www.vatican.va ger have our underclassman we can. On our class retreat, that we will be able to lead editorial staff. innocence to blame our faults our speaker presented us with with confidence and leave a on. After being at Northwest an analogy that made a great great legacy behind us. Passages November 2012 NEWS Page 3 Honored Guests Dedicate New Atrium Scholars Are Recognized By Liza Oakley By Jenna Jordano National Merit Finalist and for one of the Merit Scholar- September 24th was an Thirteen Northwest Catholic ships that will be awarded important day for the North- seniors have been honored next spring. Myles Gibbons west Catholic community. It by the College Board for their ’13, Julia Grieco ’13, Susan marked the dedication of our performance on the PSAT/ Grimshaw ’13, Adrian Hatch newly refurbished auditorium NMSQT in October 2011. Ted ’13, Ryan Murphy ’13, Sean and atrium. Alumni, donors, Vincens ‘13, Haley Derlinga Murphy ’13, and Tyler Stites and other distinguished ‘13, Elizabeth Lathrop ‘13, ’13, were named Commended guests were joined by Arch- bishop Henry J. Mansell for the ceremony. The atrium was dedicated to Rev. Bradford Colton, founding principal Kimberly Sanders of Northwest Catholic. A gift Members of the Bourret family, whose generosity helped make the from Laura Connelly Allen new Atrium possible. ’65 and her husband, Richard, honor to be a part of this improvements, “The modern made the atrium possible. special event in the school’s atrium I feel represents the The entire school, as well as history. During the prayer school moving forward into service, Archbishop Mansell the next fifty years of educa- blessed and dedicated the tion.” For the students and newly refurbished stage and staff of Northwest Catholic, lighting system in the Richard it is a place where we can Rice Auditorium. The stage gather and welcome guests Kimberly Sanders is now named for William H. into the building. The atrium National Merit Semifinalists will compete for scholarships. Mortensen, a former neigh- can also be used for complet- bor and supporter of NWC, ing assignments after school. through a gift of the William It is a sight to see, with all Emily Kearney ‘13, Sarah Gil- students, for being among the and Alice Mortensen Founda- the natural light streaming lespie ‘13, and Eamon Wizner 5% highest-scoring students. tion. The Maximillian E. and into the building through its ‘13 have been named National Savannah Gaston ’13 of En- Marion O. Hoffman Founda- glass walls. The Rev. Bradford Merit Semifinalists by the field was named a Scholar in tion also contributed to the Colton Memorial Atrium College Board. Their scores the National Hispanic Recog- auditorium improvements. brings NWC into the current were in the top 1% among the nition program. The pro- Archbishop Mansell called the standards of today’s expecta- 1.5 million juniors who took gram recognizes nearly 5,000 Art Rich Photography the PSAT/NMSQT. They will Hispanic/Latino students Archbishop Henry J. Mansell dedication a time to “recog- tions. now continue in the compe- for their high scores on the blesses the Atrium as part of the nize the generosity of those “From the beautiful Cross tition for designation as a PSAT/NMSQT exam. day’s celebration. who have gone before us… outside the atrium to the those who made this day pos- modern classrooms inside,” guests, gathered in the Rice sible.” Mrs.Williamson also remarked Mrs. Williamson, Catholic Youth Gather Auditorium for a prayer thanked the donors for the “people will come to under- By Jessica Jordano Throughout the day people service conducted by the generosity which made the stand that only the very best could also go to Reconcilia- Archbishop in honor of the $1.2 million project a success. education in the Catholic tra- The 2012 Catholic Youth Spec- tion as well. The day ended completed projects. Mr. Veteran teacher Mr. Tressler, dition continues to be offered tacular was at the St. Thomas with Mass which was filled Tressler, a teacher who was who participated in the at Northwest Catholic.” Seminary in Bloomfield, with lively songs and silent also involved in the service, service, remarked of the new mentioned how it was an Connecticut. On September meditation moments in order 30, 2012, several parishes, to absorb the Word. The Mass Bananas and Lies in Homeroom A-113 youth groups, schools, and enabled all the priests of par- ministries gathered together ishes throughout the region By Lindsay Dombrosky fallen on a banana peel great.” Two newcomers to the in order to celebrate God and to engage in the entire Mass. and the school guidance Dramateurs played significant His presence in our lives. The The songs, readings, and the Each fall, the Dramateurs counselor, Miss Matthews, roles in the story: Alyssa theme of the Youth Spec- homily allowed the audience present a student-written, played by Magda Lenczewski Reaves ’13 and Alana Seldon tacular was “God’s Enduring to participate in the Mass. one-act play. This year’s play ’13, talks to each of the ’13. Seldon was cast in the role Treasures, Celebrations of Northwest Catholic, repre- was entitled Homeroom A-113, students to identify the of the popular girl and Reaves Grace.” This theme empha- sented by the HILL class and written by TJ Lowe ’13. The culprit. Each one tells a as the bully. Their interactions sized the fact that God is the ACTS class, went to the September 28th performance, version of the story designed had the audience in stiches seen everywhere we look. In Youth Spectacular to par- which took place in the to keep him or her out of throughout the performance. every aspect of our lives God ticipate in the event. Their Mortensen theater, was trouble. In spite of her best The Dramateurs next reveals himself to us and he is participation emphasized the well-attended. undertaking always with us. immense effect Northwest Laughter filled is a The day began with all the Catholic has in the Church. the theater production groups gathering on the fields Northwest Catholic is one of almost as soon of Oscar outside of St. Thomas Semi- the twenty-one groups that as the cast took The Wilde’s nary. The band Glorify, led have attended all seven Youth the stage. The Importance of by Justin Dery, welcomed all Spectacular events. This story focused on Being Earnest . the incoming teens, teachers, proves not only how much the goings-on It is a classic and priests that were attend- the Youth Spectacular event in homeroom comedy in ing the event. After all the has grown over the years, but A-113, a typical which a case organizations and parishes also how Northwest Catholic high school of mistaken settled in, Vince Nims took has contributed to that expan- classroom filled identity the stage. Vince Nims is a sion. with characters leaves two member of the committee The Youth Spectacular en- any student young men that made this event pos- abled teens, catechists, priests, would recognize. scrambling sible. Once he took the stage, and so many more people to Typical cliques to stay on he immediately engaged the renew their faith. At the end were present. Alyssa Reaves ‘13 spins a yarn to avoid trouble in the Dramateurs good terms crowd. He played songs, of the day, it was not only to There was a group production of Homeroom A-113. with the

Kimberly Sanders introduced games, and spoke realize the blessed moments of “BFFs” who women they to the crowd full of follow- in your life, but it was also to spent most of the time texting. efforts, Miss Matthews is love. Things begin to go awry ers who were eager to listen. know to spread God’s word There was also a pair of nerds unable to uncover the truth. when both couples wind up The day also included several to everyone. The Youth Spec- who were entirely focused Lowe spent many hours spending the weekend in the other activities throughout the tacular was a wonderful event on the game Dungeons and working on the script and same country house. Earnest fields at St. Thomas Seminary. and this enthusiastic group Dragons. with the actors. He remarked will run from November 30th Frisbee, a treasure hunt, and was able to spread God’s mes- The conflict of the story “there was a lot of rewriting through December 1st. a talent show were just a few sage to several parishes, min- begins when a teacher has and fixing, but the cast was of the activities provided. istries, catechists, and teens. Passages Page 4 features November 2012 We’ve Got the Spirit, So Let’s Hear It! 1. NWC Cheerleaders pump up the crowd at the Pep Rally and Mag Ball Shootout.

2. Shanice Anderson ‘13 and Rose O’Brien ‘14 2 Kevin LeBlanc ‘14 3. Abby Reed ‘13, Meg Curran ‘13, and Adrian Hatch ‘13 Caroline O’Neill ‘13 4. Kyle Brooks ‘15 and 1 Justin Drisdell ‘15

5. Clarissa Green ‘15, Mia Christie ‘15, and 4

Diana Mignott ‘15 Monica Kirschmann

6. Mr. Swanson and David Kalamarides ‘15

7. Mr. Canny and Walter Hansen ‘13 3 Monica Kirschmann 8. Amanda Waltman ‘13 and PJ Edwards ‘13

9. Molly McDonald ‘14, Kelsey Baker ‘14, Jackie Klingman ‘14, Amanda Whitehouse ‘14, Tia Conover ‘14, and Rani Vance ‘14

10. Jenna Jordano ‘13 and Tyler Stites ‘13 6

5 Monica Kirschmann Kevin LeBlanc ‘14 Caroline O’Neill ‘13

8

7 9 10 Monica Kirschmann Kevin LeBlanc ‘14 Caroline O’Neill ‘13 Passages June 2012 features Page 5 Gorillas and Bacon and Pac Man! Oh, My! Neither rain nor sleet nor Hurricane Sandy could keep the Class of 2013 from celebrat- ing! The evening of November 6th saw Northwest’s first-ever senior costume ball. Cartoons, literary characters and ani- 1 mals danced the night away.

1. Best Comic Book 2 Emily Kearney, Maeve Walsh, Phoebe McGrath, Mary Royer, and Liza Fabbri

2. Best Food Product Jacqui Denver, Meghan Healey, Sarah 3 4 Gillespie

3. Funniest Joe Doyle and Austin McCarthy

4. Best Fairy Tale Marisa Butler, Magda Lenczewski, and Alex McKenna 5 5. Best Retro Chayla Alston- Smith, Jahmaar Rob- erts, and Traci Parker

6. Most Elaborate Tom Vignati and 6 Kathleen Sarpu

7. Editorial Award for Best Crime Fighters 7 Sara Ball and Alex Houton

8. Best Animal Allison Lacouture and Kirsten Young

9. Best Group Overall Alecia Dulaire, Gabby Garcia, and Aisha Russell

8 9 Passages Page 6 features November 2012 Inside Out: Mr. Williamson, Sam Lorenzo, Jenny Zhang, Sadie Martinez

What would people be think you are, there is always SM: Mango with salt and lime. PW: Manhattan. surprised to learn about you? somebody better. No matter how SM: When people say golf isn’t hard you think you have it, there a sport. SL: Pasta. SL: Italy. Mr. Williamson: I really like is always somebody who has it rap music, old school stuff, and I worse. SL: Bad drivers. JZ: Tomato with egg. JZ: The Forbidden City. know a lot of the lyrics. SM: It’s never awkward until JZ: College applications. If you could manage any Sadue Martinez: I can speak someone says it’s awkward. professional sports team, what Spanish. What would be your team would you choose? SL: Light up the darkness. personal theme song? Sam Lorenzo: I can’t crack my SM: The Yankees, so I could knuckles. JZ: “A single chopstick can be SM: “Waka Waka (This lead them to a World Series win. easily broken, but more than one Time for Africa)” Jenny Zhang: When I was 18 tightly bundled can withstand SL: Cleveland Browns. years old, I spent 6 months in much more damage.” SL: “Right Above It” China by myself. JZ: National Badminton Team of What three things could you JZ: “That’s Life” by Sinatra China. not live without? What would your first What would be the title of your Caroline O’Neil PW: Running shoes, action as President of the Sam Lorenzo autobiography? sunglasses, and my United States be? Android tablet. PW: Will the Following Students PW: To pass the DREAM Act: If you could hear what Report to the Office… SM: My family, my legalizing resident status for someone is thinking for a day, baby g-shock, and my millions of immigrants who are who would you choose, and SM: This is the Greatest Book golf clubs. making positive contributions to why? Ever Written the US. SL: Food, air, and PW: Mr. Tressler, because he is SL: Sam Lorenzo: a Brother, a water. SM: I would go play Augusta the king of smirks and chuckles Friend, and a Hero National GC with Bubba Watson, and I would like to know why. JZ: Laptop, poems, Arnold Palmer, and Tiger Woods. JZ: A Blooming Flower and photos. SM: Mr. Olheiser, because rumor SL: Getting courtside seats to has it he beat Chuck Norris at a What magazine do you always Who or what always Knicks v. Heat. game of chess. look forward to getting in the makes you laugh? mail? What movie could you watch SL: My dog, because I have PW: My sister Kate. over and over again, and why? always wanted to know what a PW: Discover Magazine. dog thinks. SM: Mr. Carlson. PW: Dodgeball: A True SM: Seventeen Magazine and Underdog Story. JZ: My grandmother, because Golf Digest. JZ: The famous TV she passed away last year and I Mr. Williamson talk show in China SM: The Dark Knight, because I miss her a lot. JZ: The Reader (It’s like Caroline O’Neil called “Day Day Up.” can’t get over how great of a job Reader’s Digest in the US) If you could be anyone else Heath Ledger did. What is your greatest at Northwest for a day, who What would be the first thing ambition in life? would you be, and why? you would do if you won 10 SL: Avatar, because it is my million dollars? favorite movie. PW: To make a living PW: Mr. Shugrue, because I doing what I love. would understand math and get PW: Donate a track facility to If the whole world were to leave at 11:00 am every day. NWC. listening, what would you say? SM: To go to college, be successful, help those in SM: Mrs. Huston, because her SM: I would donate half of it to PW: You guys are all fighting need, and play golf. sense of fashion is impeccable. cancer research; the remaining over really stupid stuff. half would be used to construct SL: To be a father. SL: Mr. Fletcher, because I my own golf range. SM: I really don’t know. I would would know the secrets of the probably just smile. JZ: To make a private world. SL: Buy a secret island. school in China and to SL: Matt McGoldrick is the man. combine the Chinese JZ: Mr. Gurganus, because he is JZ: I would invite all my family and American education a Chinese teacher and I want to and friends to the United States If you could ask God any one systems. teach my friends about Chinese to travel with me. question, what would it be? culture. Who is your hero, and PW: What is on the other why? If you were stranded on a Caroline O’Neil side of a black hole and do Sadie Martinez desert island, who would you you live there? PW: Matt Long, a NYC want to be stranded with, and firefighter who was hit by a bus What random fact are you why? SM: Who stole my putter last and came back to be an Ironman. most proud to know? summer? PW: I’d probably have to go SM: Captain America, because PW: People forget why they with Sara Bareilles or Charlize SL: Are you male or female? he saved the world. walk into rooms because when Theron. you walk through a doorway, JZ: Why do territorial SL: My dad, because he is the your brain changes focus from SM: I would LOVE to be disputes always happen nicest guy. your previous thought. stranded with Ryan Gosling so between China and Japan? he could read me his notebook. JZ: My grandfather, he was SL: There are 3,600 seconds in If you could have only one a soldier that suffered many an hour.

SL: Missy Franklin, because Caroline O’Neil food for the rest of your hardships and setbacks but he she could could swim the both Jenny Zhang life (assuming that this strange taught my father to face life with JZ: Recently, Chinese writer, of us to safety. situation would not affect your smiles. Mo Yan, won the Nobel Prize What annoys you the most? health), which food would you for Literature and was the first What words of wisdom do you choose? If you could live anywhere in Chinese person to win this live by? PW: Students who do not have the world, where would you award. their ID card when they come PW: Grilled cheese with tomato live? PW: No matter how good you late to school. and bacon. Passages November 2012 sports Page 7 Girls’ Soccer Kicks Its Way to the Top A New Athletic Club By Matt Marshall All-American and All-New ’16 on defense, along with By Taylor Borowiec until one team has scored a England players, but also goalies Kelsey Dornfried predetermined, odd number All-State and All-Conference ’16 and Rebecca Molin ’16. This year at Northwest, a of points. The club is open The Northwest Catholic Girls’ players. Fontaine ‘13 leads Despite the range of ages on new intramural activity has to all, as Ultimate Frisbee is soccer team is on its way to the team with over twenty the team, the girls play in been added to the already a co-ed sport. The Ultimate repeating history this season. goals so far this season. Junior unison like no other team. long list that the school has Frisbee Club is currently Last year the Northwest Maggie Rose ’14 holds down Captain Jenna Jordano’13 to offer. Seniors Nate Frasco made up exclusively of boys, Girls’ Varsity team, coached the defense and has support spoke about this year’s team and Cormac McKenna have but the members are trying by Todd Sadler, won the in the midfield by fellow saying, “Our team being like a founded the Ultimate Frisbee to encourage girls to join as Class M championship juniors Michelle Medina ’14 family this year has carried us club. The game was created well. Ultimate Frisbee is an which was their first outright to a strong record. in the late 1960s, but has been easy sport to take up, as little state title. The girls are 15- With this, we will 0-1 after recently coming off never stop working hard-fought victories over hard for each other Southington with a score of on the field and 2-1 and Conard with a score with our goals of 7-1. In the Southington in mind, we will game, Cathy Higgins ’13 had remain positive.” both of the goals with the Collectively the winning goal scored in the girls have scored last moments of the game. over sixty goals Southington has been one and have had fewer of Northwest’s strongest than ten goals Alex Young The Ultimate Frisbee club poses for a team photo. competitors in the past few scored against years. Last year, the team’s them. Along with gaining in popularity across equipment and training are only tie in their undefeated Art Rich Photography Fiona Shea ‘15 gains possession. the players, the the country in recent years. required to begin. The game season was against coaches are setting The object of the game is to can be played in any season, Southington. This year the and Nicole Medina ’14. This records as well. Class M score touchdowns, and the as long as it’s warm enough to team is led by captains Jess year’s underclassmen have “Coach of the Year” Todd rules are very simple. The be outside. For the time being, Fontaine ’13, Annie Higgins also given strong support on Sadler coached his 100th game players are not allowed to the club members divide ’13, Cathy Higgins ’13, Emily the field. Madison Borowiec earlier this season. After a bye tackle each other since it is in two teams to play one Kearney ’13, and Jenna ’15, Fiona Shea ’15 and in the first round of the state a non-contact sport, and the another. They are hoping to Jordano ’13. Jess Fontaine ’13 Charlotte Carew ’15 provide tournament, the girls defeated players cannot move if they find other teams to scrimmage was named All-American pressure against the many Weston 4-0 and Nonnewaug have the Frisbee. However, against in the future. When and Cathy Higgins’13 was opposing defenders. The 5-0. At press time, the girls they are permitted three asked why they started the named All-New England freshman class shows strong were scheduled to face steps to slow down if they team, Nate and Cormac said, last year as juniors. Not only potential with Bailey Julian Lewis Mills in their semifinal catch the Frisbee while “because it is a fun sport and is the team comprised of ’16 up front and Anna Cronin matchup. running. Opponents play it gets people outside.” Boys’ Soccer Off to States Girls’ Volleyball Continues Success By James Jordano was in a “do or die” matchup By Alice D’Arcangelo entire team participated in School Warriors, losing one with Simsbury that the boys bonding activities to bring set but bringing it back to It has been a season of highs secured themselves a place “Out work. Out hustle. Out them together, including win 3-1. Their superb serving, and lows for the Northwest’s in the state tournament for play.” The Northwest Catholic making psych boxes and passing, and hitting easily Boys’ Soccer team. Their early the first time since entering Girls Volleyball team has locker posters. They also had won them the game, leaving successes were followed by the CCC. The first goal of practiced, played, and won several team dinners and had the Warriors in the dust. Kelly a string of disappointing the match was scored by by this motto throughout Weiss ‘13, senior losses. One highlight of the Alejandro Tobon ’13, giving their entire season. Their captain, and season was their stunning Northwest the lead thirty recent victory against the Grace Deneen upset of rival Farmington. minutes into the first half. Northwestern Highlanders ‘14 led the team According to Cooper Kerr Early in the second half, has brought their record to with amazing ’14, “They were so confident RJ Place ’15 increased the 10-7. The Indians have taken serves while they would win, the whole Indians’ lead to 2-0. Simsbury on tough competitors this senior captain school came out to watch.” got on the board with fifteen season, battling Farmington, Sarah Gillespie Farmington fans didn’t see minutes left in the game, but Simsbury, and Southington ‘13 got in a few their team rout Northwest as they could not finish and tie High School. The volleyball good kills and expected, but were handed it up. Northwest Catholic team is composed of several digs. This game came out victorious key players that lead the team qualified them to with a win of 2-1. The to victory. Erin Feeney ‘16, compete in the team will be led in a setter, Grace Deneen ‘14, a CIAC and CCC the state tournament libero, Gabriella Beaulieu ‘14, tournaments that by captains Brendan a middle hitter, and J’Leen start soon after Thompson ’13, Diaz ‘13, senior captain and their regular Alejandro Tobon ’13, outside hitter have all worked season is over. and Connor Krikawa hard and contributed to the The girls’ goal is ’13. Krikawa ’13 team this season. J’Leen has to make it to the summed up the team’s led the team with an average final round of the reason for success, of 13 kills per game, and state tournament

saying “We’re not demonstrates the leadership Art Rich Photography as they did last the biggest or most necessary to motivate and Rachel Poirier ‘14 serves the ball. year, when they talented team in our guide the talented team. “big sis little sis” activities took on the Coventry Patriots Brendan Thompson ‘13 shields the ball. conference but we The girls’ senior night was where the girls would get and unfortunately lost after Art Rich Photography play with the most against Newington, which assigned a teammate to a thrilling and well-played a 3-2 defeat. With two goals passion and we have proven recognized the amazing bring a note or a gift for on game. The Indians have and one assist, Alejandro ourselves this season by talent and determination that game days. The girls’ season bumped, set, and spiked their Tobon ’13 carried the team outworking our competition.” each senior player has. “We is a long one, lasting from way through a phenomenal to victory. The game was The boys have been successful couldn’t have done it without August to November, so team season of 12-8, battling tough sealed with a final goal by RJ in the first three rounds of the hard work and dedication collaboration is of the utmost competitors but emerging Place ‘15. The boys racked tournament play, including a of the seniors this year”, says importance for success. All victorious overall. Their up seven losses this season, nail-biting 1-0 shutout against Gabriella Beaulieu ‘14, “They of their bonding and hard season came to a close in the but also managed three Hale Ray. At press time, the are immensely talented and work paid off. The girls second round of the state shutouts against Platt, New boys were scheduled to face put in a lot of time and effort. recently played an amazing tournament in a difficult loss Britain, and Southington. It Somers in a semifinal match. We all look up to them.” The game against the Hall High to first-seeded Coventry. Passages Page 8 sports November 2012 Football Hopes For Postseason Success Just Keep On Running By Zach Hesketh out on top. 10:00 am against the Rocky By Caitlin O’Sullivan The Indians’ biggest games Hill Terriers is highly antici- After a worthy postseason so far have been played pated and could be one of the The Northwest Cross Coun- run last year the Indians against their rivals, the Berlin biggest games of the season. try team has been running picked up where they left Redcoats and the Bloomfield Exceptional seasons have extremely hard this year. With off, coming out of the gate Warhawks. Northwest fell been had by seniors Nick the great coaching from Mr. with two strong wins and to Bloomfield in a very close Gaynor ’13, Matt McGoldrick Fletcher and Dr. Luddy, the are currently at a record of game in spite of a 60-yard ’13, and Mac Crispino ’13. team has been able to reach 6-2. Northwest has defeated interception that Ryan Jen- Gaynor’s ability to play at its full potential. A couple of Platt, Weaver, Tolland, and draszek ’13 returned for a both ends of the field make injuries at the beginning of Plainville while falling to touchdown, one of six picks him both an offensive and the season to varsity runners both Berlin and Bloomfield. defensive threat. Anthony Ravosa ‘13, and The Indians are captained McGoldrick’s Sean McDonough ‘14 left the by seniors Mac Crispino high level of an- boys’ team facing an uphill ’13, Devin Stewart ’13, ticipation on the battle. However, the team was PJ Edwards ’13 and Nick defensive line able to pull together and have Gaynor ’13.One of North- forces decisive several underclassmen, like west’s best games of the turnovers to give Art Rich Photography Christian Mackay-Morgan year so far came by way of the ball to the The mighty Joe Doyle ‘13. ‘16, and Adam Vancisin ‘15 a win against Tolland High Indians power- step up. The girls’ team also Doyle ‘16 and Charlie Quinn School on October 6th. ful offensive line. received underclassmen talent ‘13, the boys were able to fin- Rebounding from a tough Senior Captain from runners Mary McNally ish sixth overall. When asked loss against Bloomfield, the Mac Crispino is ‘16 and Megan Grandell ‘16. about the team as a whole, Indians defeated the Eagles strong on both Earlier in the season, the team Captain Haley Derlinga at home by a score of 21-0. offense and competed at the Wickham responded, “It’s like a family Northwest’s defense forced defense, while Park Invitational, an extreme- because we’re a smaller team an astounding six turn- giving North- ly popular meet attended and we’re really close.” overs for the second con- Caroline O’Neill west depth at by hundreds of competitors When asked on his thoughts secutive game. They were Will Carew ‘13 kicks for the extra point. quarterback. from all over the state. Joe about the team this year, able to stop the high-powered by the Indians’ defense that As of right now, it is too early Doyle ‘13 had an especially Captain Anthony Ravosa ‘13 running game of Tolland to game. Northwest also came to tell if the Indians will make strong performance in the said, “It’s amazing how far preserve the Indians’ shutout. up short against Berlin losing it to the state tournament. A Varsity boys race, placing we’ve come. We started the Scoring touchdowns were by a score of 27-12, despite division record of 1-1-0 lands fourth overall. The freshmen season in mayhem, trying to Aidan McDonnell ’14, Will the strong defensive efforts the Indians in third place in also ran well on both the boys figure out who was running Carew ’13 and Nick Gaynor by both Mac Crispino ’13 and CCC Div. III West behind and girls sides with standout when, and in what race. Now ’13 who scored on a 44-yard Nick Gaynor ’13. The Indians’ rivals Bloomfield and Rocky races from Ryan Arborio ‘16, all of the hard work is paying run to help Northwest come Thanksgiving Day game at Hill. Sam Spak ‘16, Caroline Gill off and everybody seems to ‘16, and Kathleen Yorio ‘16. be in sync.” The team’s season Field Hockey Works Its Way to States Recently, the girls’ and boys’ came to a close at Wickham By Molly McDonald we have been doing so well status as a worthy opponent teams competed at the Cen- Park, at the Class SS Champi- during the season.” Although against the Simsbury Trojans, tral Connecticut Conference onships. Two runners finished The field hockey team is blaz- the team has already ac- who are notably strong rivals. meet. Led by Haley Derlinga in the top ten of their respec- ing through their season so complished so much, there Many attempts were made ‘16 and Bitty Lathrop ‘16, the tive races: Joe Doyle came in far. The Varsity team finished is still more to come. As for by Simsbury to score, but girls team finished fifth over- fourth and Mary McNally ‘16 regular season play with nine the Hall game, it was a vic- Northwest met them with a all. On the boys’ side, with finished tenth. It was a great wins and six losses, includ- tory to be remembered. The dominating defensive counter strong performances from Joe end to a great season. ing one in overtime, and one Varsity team conquered the by Tia Conover ’14, Amanda tie. With this record, the girls previously undefeated Hall Waltman ’13, Erin Curley ’13 Athlete of the Season: Nick Gaynor have secured them- and Emily Stanwick ’13 selves a place in the and goalie Christina By Maggie Rose They provided the oppor- state tournament Wilson ‘15. At halftime, tunities and confidence that for the first time Northwest still held Nick Gaynor ’13 has been he needed throughout his in four years. The the lead. The Trojans playing football since he was career. The NW football head Varsity coach countered in the second seven. Now he is a crucial team has been a family and William Mullady half with two goals, but member of the Northwest support system to help to specifically speaks the Northwest defense boys’ football team, who has shape Gaynor as a person. about the strength of did not give up. Great been on the varsity squad They push him to do his best the captains, Aman- defense in last few since freshman year. He in school so he can live out da Waltman ‘13 and seconds of the game by starts as the team’s running his dream of playing football Julia Crawford ‘13. Amanda Whitehouse back where he has helped in college at the D1 level. He explains, “They ‘14 prevented Simsbury lead the team to twenty-four According to Nick, “Football are a big reason why from scoring another regular season wins so far in has taught me hard work we have been so suc- goal. Despite the 2-1 his career. Nick received All- can get you through any- cessful this season, loss, the girls put up an State honors during the 2010 thing in life.” He will be able working so hard in impressive fight. Jess and 2011 seasons, which he to apply this important les- the off season to give Caroline O’Neill Jordano ’15, Caitlin hopes to repeat for a third son to any situation he faces Emily Stanwick ‘13 fights for the ball. the girls the tools Nicholas ’15, and Madison year in a row. The highlight in his future. Northwest to step up their level of play. Warriors with a score of 2-1. Mortillaro ‘14 did a great job of his career was last year Passages congratulates Nick Amanda and Julia are cer- Coach Mullady adds, “The moving the ball in the middle when the team made it all on his acheivements. tainly going to be missed as most exciting game has been of the field, and captain Julia way to the will all of our seniors. They the Hall game. Coming back Crawford ’13 had an amaz- semi-finals are responsible for bringing from a one goal deficit to ing game overall. In the first in the state the team together from the score two unanswered goals round of tournament play, tournament. defense to the offense and and win the game was an the girls faced Stafford. In The two creating a winning season.” incredible feeling for the girls spite of a goal from Madison most impor- Captain Julia Crawford ’13 and the coaching staff. Hall Mortillaro ‘14, the girls were tant people adds, “I think we were finally has always been a big rival.“ defeated 2-1. Coach Dianna who have able to achieve states this year The Varsity team held strong Soucier ’08 is already look- helped to because the entire team has against Simsbury in the first ing to next season, noting the bring Nick been focused and pushing half of their game on Wednes- strength and achievement of this far are each other to do their best day the 24th. Sophomore this year’s underclassmen. his father and his during practice. We have Hope Vaughn ’15 scored with- This was a season for the Caroline O’Neill great team camaraderie and in the first five minutes of the record books for Northwest’s coach, Mr. Nick Gaynor ‘13 has long been an asset to the I think it has been the reason game, solidifying the team’s field hockey team. Mike Tyler. Varsity squad.