December 2016 The New Chevron Vol. 105 No. 2 Halfway Through: Turning the Corner to 2017 Transitioning to Trump Donald Trump Defeats Hillary Clinton in the 2016 Election

By Dylan Taylor From June 2015 until November 2016, Hillary Clinton was a clear favor- Donald Trump not ite to win the 2016 Presidential Election, and by quite a large margin. A lot only win the Presi- of states that had formerly been considered “battleground states” had started dency, but win it by to lean blue (Democratic), such as Virginia, Colorado, and New Mexico. In such a wide margin? addition, many red (Republican) states had started to become battleground Donald Trump’s states, such as North most likely path to Carolina and Ohio. The victory (although states that were the still a very unlikely most closely contended path at the time) was projection-wise were through victories in Nevada, Florida, and North Carolina, New North Carolina, and Hampshire, Nevada, pollsters had all of these and Florida. Florida, Nevada, and North Carolina were toss-ups that were leaning towards Hillary leaning slightly blue, and New Hampshire was a state that the Clinton Camp Clinton. With all of felt confident they could win. Of those four states, Florida and North Carolina these facts and histori- are the most important, as they are worth a total of 44 electoral votes - a large cally accurate polls, it is chunk of the 270 needed to win the Presidency. a very fair question to ask how in the world did See Transitioning to Trump, Page 3 The Christmas Parade Four-Peat Season Begins Long, Cold, Harsh, but Meaningful Wrestling Season Preview

By Christopher Firment By Larry James Each year on Broad Street in Richmond, Va, the streets are lined with people The Benedictine waiting to see floats, bands, police, streets performers and much more.Although wrestling team enters there are many interesting and impressive things happening during this parade, the 2016-2017 season the most important of them all is the Benedictine Cadets marching down Broad having won the past Street. The comportment that three VISAA State is carried out by the Cadets is recognized by many, includ- Championships. This ing alumni. Cadets prepared year they will look to for many weeks for this add another champion- renowned event in hopes that ship to their impressive they would perform to their streak and to dominate absolute best ability during their opponents as they the parade. The Richmond have for the past three Junior Isaiah Jones prepares to square off against his Christmas Parade is a huge years. The wrestling opponent. annual event that the city team enters the season hosts, and Benedictine is with the same mindset as each of the past seasons, but this year with possibly always honored to be able more motivation. This year, the goal is the same, but the stakes are higher as to participate in this great some of the seniors will look to graduate Benedictine with a total of four State Cadets march down Broad Street during the parade. Championship rings on their fingers. 2016 Richmond Christmas Parade. See The Christmas Parade See Four-Peat Season Page 5 Begins, Page 11 2 Haunting Hallways on Halloween A Trick or a Treat? By Ellis Brooks was going to be. I thought I got away from everyone and I was October 31st was a scary making my way inside right sight at the Benedictine Ab- when two clowns destroyed bey. The excitement of this me with water balloons.” Even year’s annual Halloween cel- though they might have gotten ebration was increased as soaked, every Cadet now has a the senior class of 2017 has great model to show them how brought a sense of energy and Halloween should be their se- cheerful spirit to the school. nior year. This not only gave everyone For the seniors, the thrilling something to look forward to, fun was experienced the most but, made Cadets wonder what by them. Who wouldn’t enjoy this year’s Halloween would the process of getting costumes be like. After the seniors’ long weeks in advance, with smoke preparation and anticipation, bombs and water balloons this year proved to be another Cadets run from the Seniors while smoke bombs and silly string is deployed upon them. equipped the night before? Ever successful Halloween, filled since their first years at -Bene with water balloons, smoke dictine, they have waited for bombs, and silly string. Quite this opportunity to plan the big ironically, this year the seniors surprise and the fun-filled day came and left in the same at school. They had all waited quick fashion, which made for the one day of their lives in the celebration unique and which they could finally get to different from all of the previ- dress up and become the ones ous years. For many Cadets dishing it out, not the victims. at Benedictine, this was their This highlight of senior year first Halloween experience, has more anticipation around it while for others it was their than all previous years because last, but one thing they can all it is a Cadet’s final year at the agree on is that this is one to school. Coming into school remember. way earlier than anyone usually The imaginations of would, and planning out the new students at Benedictine strategies are a few things that tend to run wild with ideas make this day special. When of what some events will be Senior Cadets assembling for a group picture before forming their strategy. asked about this year’s Hallow- like, and the stories some een, senior Alex Williams said, share from previous years “It was my favorite one yet! don’t help the anticipation of Everything about that day was this event. This anticipation and amazing, let alone the fact that excitement only gets more in- we got to leave early.” tense the day of, with every Ca- That’s because after all det thinking things like, “When of the morning’s excitement, will they show up?”, “Where are the senior class cashed in its one they?” or “Who will be there?”. “Senior Skip Day” of the year. Then, with blistering noises Another Halloween has coming through the intercom at come and gone, but this one formation, a roar of costumed seems to be at the top of the list Seniors came screaming from compared to previous years. The every which way, trapping the fun-filled and much anticipated other Cadets with no hope of day for the seniors has passed, escape. When asked about this and the year is now flying by as experience, freshman Christian Cadets enter Winter Break! Dunn stated, ”It was actually Boo! much creepier than I thought it Senior Cadets prepare to raid the formation area on Halloween morning. 3 From Page One: Transitioning to Trump

Trump’s key to victory in Hillary Clinton, as well as North Carolina was low Black pollsters, election analysts, and voter turnout. Hillary Clinton the general US population, all needed the African-American believed that the Rust Belt was to show support for her in large a safe bet to vote for the Demo- numbers in North Carolina, crats. However, the blue curtain and this did not happen, which was torn down in its entirety allowed Trump to receive 15 in the states of Michigan, Wis- electoral votes from this state. consin, and Pennsylvania. In In Florida, Hispanic turnout was all three of these states, Hillary satisfactory for the Democrats, was expected to win by a size- however white voter turnout able margin. The silent majority in upstate Florida was off the arose, however, as trade deals charts, allowing Donald Trump such as NAFTA tarnished com- to grasp a narrow edge over munities in this region. Donald Hillary Clinton in the state of Trump appealed to the average Florida. These two states were American worker from this re- called relatively early on elec- gion, and all three of these states tion night, and this gave Trump had rural voters turnout in sky supporters a little bit more hope high numbers to vote for Donald for victory. Trump would go Trump. Michigan, Wisconsin, on to lose New Hampshire and and Pennsylvania gave Trump Nevada, although these states a whopping 46 electoral college surprisingly didn’t affect the votes, which ended up securing election in the way everyone anticipated. him a large margin of victory. Trump’s Triumph Is America On the Right Track? By Hank Berling In a shocking turn of events, in the early hours of Wednesday, November 9, Americans believed that Hillary Clinton called Donald Trump and conceded the election. The following Clinton was responsible Monday, Trump officially won the state of Michigan for a final electoral college for the attacks on the victory of 306-232. This election was an electoral college landslide. The poll- U.S soldiers in Benghazi sters were dead wrong. The Democrats were shocked. Donald Trump represents after she failed to grant a large number of Americans who want to drain the swamp in Washington of cor- requests for increased ruption, establishment politics, special interests, and all-talk-no-action politicians. security at the American America was headed down embassy in Benghazi, a dangerous path, and Libya. She was Secretary Trump supporters believe of State, which is a nice that he can help restore our tick on the resume, but country to its core beliefs: her failed foreign poli- a nation of the people, run cies and trustworthiness by the people, and for the proved to sink the ship of the Clinton campaign. people. Donald Trump has identified the core issues that face America today. Politi- The vast majority of cal correctness clouds the judgment of many politicians, but Trump stands strong people, regardless of who and recognizes the threat of radical Islam and anti-police sentiment. Illegal they supported, believed immigrants feed off of American tax dollars, and our veterans are not getting the that Hillary Clinton was benefits they deserve. Corporations are leaving America to hire cheap labor, and bound to become the 45th Trump has the potential to put an end to this by withdrawing from treaties like President of the United the TPP, which would cost Americans thousands, and potentially millions of jobs. States. Clinton of course Trump brings a new dynamic to American society, which has been on a steady had her fair share of issues, with the Benghazi scandal being her biggest issue of decline over the past 8 years thanks to an incompetent President who accepts far controversy. Her credibility was a large question mark surrounding her campaign, less than the best. America is back on the right track, and the next 8 years should and Trump capitalized on this opportunity to slander her personality. Many be quite successful for the citizens of the United States. 4 The Corporate Internship Program Relief for Annual Tuition By Caleb Childress The Corporate Internship Program started at wouldn’t be the person I am and in the position I’m in Benedictine in 2013 and provides Cadets and their today,” he said. families with relief from the school’s annual tuition. Andrew Craven, a junior, earned tuition relief by In exchange for the help with tuition, a Cadet has to volunteering full-time at the Abbey over the summer. volunteer for 250 hours at a local business or orga- He helped by mowing the grass, cleaning, painting nization. This year, 20 Cadets are members of the and doing other types of maintenance. Craven said, CIP and they have raised an accumulative of over “I learned about the program through Coach Lilly. I $300,000. Any Cadet interested in joining and learn- like being a member because it helps pay for most of ing more about the Corporate Internship Program the school’s tuition, so that I can attend Benedictine. It can speak to Coach Lilly or Ms. Carli about applying makes things easier for my family financially.” Gerson or by visiting the school website under ‘Financial Carrera, also a junior, learned about the program Assistance’. Once accepted, a Cadet can volunteer through his parish priest, who encouraged him to join. at the Abbey, a parish or at a Bon Secours hospital. “Coach Lilly and Ms. Carli helped me with join- Through volunteering, a Cadet can earn money for ing and applying to CIP. They eased the application his tuition and learn many skills in the workplace. process, and helped adjust to the program. I volunteer Sterling Palmer has been a member of CIP since at the Sacred Heart Parish, and I usually set up for his freshman year. He said, “The Corporate Intern- mass and other events that the church is involved in,” ship Program helped me learn organization. I learned he said. Gerson and his brother, Brian, also worked how to be at specific places at specific times and that towards their individual 250 hours by working at the I have to work diligently, and I think that transferred Abbey as well over the summer, along with their class- over to my schoolwork and the field of play.” Palmer Cadet Sterling Palmer at Bon Secours Hospital. mate Andrew Craven. volunteers at Bon Secours St. Francis Medical Center The Corporate Internship Program is a great way in Midlothian, where he helps out at the front desk, registers patients and pro- to help relieve the financial burden of Benedictine. Here, Cadets can still be able vides general services, such as delivering letters and newspapers to patients. “I to receive a good education while helping their family save money. Members of also learned to be confident and get out of my shell. This forced me to engage the program are proud and grateful to be associated with helping the community with people first and start a conversation which was something I struggled to and their family. do. I’m proud of being in the Corporate Internship Program. Without it, I Benedictine is O“fish”ally Hook’d A New Sport for the Cadets By Ike Andrews tournament, we ended up getting fourth place, Last year, I, and a few others, began the talk of and were later invited to fish in the state tourna- starting a fishing team at Benedictine. The idea at first, ment. This lead to a fifth place finish for Benedic- seemed to be a stretch, but as we pursued it, it became tine in the state tournament, a competition that was a reality. After hard work from Chris LaCivita, the co- held on Buggs Island Lake. Even with the growing founder of the Benedictine fishing team, the growth of pains of a new team, we were very proud to have a new sport at the school is beginning to come along. done so well and have success. The team first started as a very small group of This school year is our second season, and first friends, including Kendall Dreyer, Jake Shattner, full season with the B.A.S.S Nation of Virginia, Chris LaCivita and myself, Ike Andrews. After and we are proud of the growth of the team this mountains of paperwork and support with the financ- year. We have already participated in one quali- es, the Benedictine fishing team became part of the fying tournament this past September, and even B.A.S.S Nation of Virginia, and were able to compete placed well enough to earn a spot in the fishing in their tournaments. Due to the lack of resources state tournament in May. The team of just 4 friends for obtaining fishing boats, only one two-man team started last year has turned into 17 official mem- was able to participate from Benedictine. This team bers, as well an additional nine rising Benedictine consisted of Kendall Dreyer and myself. After many freshman that have pledged to be on the team next months of waiting, the first qualifying tournament we year. We are also a sponsored team, and we now were able to fish came along on Lake Gaston. It was a have brand new jerseys to represent the school one-day tournament, and the team with the combined of Benedictine on the water. Needless to say, the five heaviest bass would win the tournament. Our goal Benedictine fishing team is truly turning some Cadets Kendall Dreyer and Ike Andrews at the was just to make it to the state tournament in the fol- heads, and we hope to be sending two teams to the 2016 state fishing tournament. lowing month by being in the top eight. After a long nation tournament in the summer of 2017. 5 Dash with a Sash Four More Cadets in the Baby Blue

By Sterling Palmer said, “I was honored to be apart of it. It The National Honor Society is one of the was a cool way to get rewarded for my most prestigious clubs at Benedictine. In order hard work.” Swaim knows it wasn’t an to be eligible to join, you have to have a cumu- easy road to this point, and he acknowl- lative GPA of 3.5 or higher. Prior to the newest edged this, saying, “I had to make sure to induction ceremony, the NHS had sixteen Cadets not let bad grades or tough classes get to in it, showing how difficult it is to be selected in me. I knew that I couldn’t just give up, a class of more than 60. This fall, Benedictine because then I wouldn’t be able to go to welcomed four new members to the club, seniors a good college.” Swaim is confident in Alex Williams, Chris Metzger, Desmond Hen- the direction he’s going and will continue derson, and Spencer Swaim. to perform at level worthy enough of be- The head of NHS, Mrs.. Robinson, had ing inducted into NHS. some words to say about the recent selection., Alex Williams, however, wasn’t very saying “the National Honor Society is an organiza- (From left to right) Cadets, Desmond Henderson, Chris consistent in terms of grades, but made an tion which is dedicated to fostering high standards Metzger, Spencer Swaim, and Alex Williams are inducted. astounding turnaround that would inspire of scholarship and character. It encourages leadership skills, and promotes any Cadet. Williams had the major turnaround when the doors of football a life dedicated to service. You don’t get in just because you have a high scholarships were closing, and the doors of new academic scholarships GPA. Each candidate is thoroughly reviewed by the Faculty Council. Ev- were opening. “After realizing I probably wasn’t going to play college ery aspect of the candidate’s life is examined, and references are checked football, my academics became more important to me,” said Williams. He meticulously. Only those who excel in leadership, character and service now understands that playing on the next level isn’t for everyone; sports are accepted. I hate it when I have to tell a cadet that he has not been can be taken away from you, but academics and a college degree stand the selected for membership because it is such a disappointment for him and test of time. his family, and conversely one of the most fun things I do is when I can tell The four characteristics that the National Honor Society values are them they have been selected. I am always excited to see new members scholarship, leadership, service, and character, and each of these four men come in to the society. It is a huge honor for them and a proud moment for embody these traits. As Benedictine Cadets, there can be so many things their moms and dads.” that can impede our success, but we have to look past that: Whatever goal Spencer Swaim was ecstatic after being tapped, and he describes one wishes to achieve requires full focus and motivation at all times. How- the feeling of signing the acceptance paper and putting on the blue sash as ever, if you do not believe that this is the way to success, just ask these four a great one. When asked about how it felt when he was inducted, Swaim NHS inductees, as they clearly did it themselves. From Page One: The Christmas Parade The Benedictine Cadets practice day in and day out for this event. While practicing their marching and uniformity, they also practice not talking and not giving into distractions. During the Christmas Parade, the Cadets march down streets that are packed with onlookers. This is a per- fect place for a Cadet to be mesmerized by the crowd, and can be easily distracted from the task at hand. Cadet Shep Corbin said ,“I look forward to the Christmas Parade every year. It gives me an opportunity to show off my marching to onlookers as they watch the Cadets put on a show.” Corbin accurately reflects the excitement that each Cadet has for this annual event. The Christmas Parade, al- though very cold, is packed every year. In the crowds, alumni and Cadets march in the 2016 Richmond Christmas Parade parents look on to see their children march by the Cadets is very meaningful to the alumni of the school. IT shows in front of the the Richmond area how well maintained the military part of our school crowds along- is. It really touches a sweet spot in them that makes memories reappear. It side of many has been known to be a thing that is talked about for many years and will popular groups continue to be as the years past and the Cadets continually march in the and bands. annual Richmond Christmas Parade. Mauricio Acosta leads his staff on the march down This march Richmond’s Broad Street. 6 New Year, New Sponsors, Same Tradition Annual Ball has Cadets and their sponsors waltzing the night away By Larry James future sponsor- Every year at Benedictine the Sponsors Ball is a highlight of the ing officers second quarter. The Sponsors Ball is a yearly corps event and has been down the road, a tradition at Benedictine for many years. This year, the tradition contin- and join the list ued, as the colorful event took place on the night of December 3rd at the of great names Sheppard Street Gym. that have The Ball is a formal dance where the sponsoring officers of Bene- come before dictine and the sponsors of Saint Gertrude dance in front of their class- them. Before mates, parents, and the faculty of their schools. They had to learn the the Sponsors Waltz from a professional dance instructor before the dance, and each Ball, Cullen participant had to learn many new maneuvers and styles of dance prior Vita, a fresh- to the big night! man, gave his This is a huge event thoughts on the for Benedictine and significance of Saint Gertrude, and the dance. Vita the dance is always acknowledged very well-attended. the excitement The sponsoring offi- leading up to Mauricio Acosta prepares to begin the traditional Sponsors Dance. cers that are involved the Ball, saying have worked hard to “I think it will be able to get a chance be a really fun experience. My brother Brendan [Vita], class of 2015, to be apart of one the really enjoyed the ball, and my brother Henry will be in it this year.” school’s longest tradi- Blake Smith, a sophomore, also gave his opinion on his expectations for tions. Patrick Corbett, the dance. Smith the senior “JAG” claimed he was officer, said, “I was excited, saying, really looking forward “I think that it is to being a part of this going to be fun. event.” The parents I heard that it of the sponsors also is a big event.” love this event because Both Smith and they get to see a dance Vita were among that is exclusive to the many Cadets the sponsors of both excited for the Cadet Luke Sykes takes the hand of his sponsor for a schools. The sponsors’ 2016 Sponsor’s dance. parents from Saint Ger- Ball, and their trude also participate in expectations were the dance each year, and some parents might even enjoy the dance more definitely met. than the students. In the traditional dance, the fathers of each St. Ger- The Spon- trude sponsors dance with his daughter, while sponsoring officers from Cadet Grant Peters poses for a picture with his sors Ball is one of Sponsor after the ceremony. Benedictine dance with the mothers of their sponsor. For many Benedic- the biggest events tine and St. Gertrude students this is an event that they have witnessed in the school year, before, but for each new student, this is definitely a new experience. and for each new student from Benedictine and St. Gertrude, they saw The conclusion of the Sponsors Ball marks the end of the recognition of why during the night of the Ball. The Sponsors Ball is unique and filled sponsors from each school, and also signifies the beginning of the final with tradition that only a school like Benedictine could have. The dance semester for the seniors from each school. means so much to each sponsor of the Benedictine Cadets, as well as The dance is significant because it marks the last major dance before the parents of both the Cadet and St. Gertrude sponsors. The moms prom, but also because it shows some underclassman what the future of each participant most likely enjoy the event as much as anybody in could hold for them. The new students from Benedictine and St. Ger- attendance, but everyone looks forward to this annual event. The 2016 trude will have a chance to witness this dance for the first time, and Benedictine Sponsors Ball lived up to the excitement and anticipation some will be taking a glance at a situation that they could be in down the that comes each year, and the tradition of this colorful dance continues road. Some students in attendance will have the opportunity to become to live on! 7

Top Left: Cadets at individual drill choosing which company has the best banner in the corps.

Top Right: Former Cadet Collin Smith intimi- dating freshman Nick Turner in the individual drill competition.

Middle Left: Battalion Commander, Mauricio Acosta leading the corps in the Veterans day review.

Middle Right: Football senior captains shake hands at midfield for the coin toss prior to the State title game.

Bottom Middle: Cadets cheering on the foot- ball team in the State Championship

Bottom Right: Colonel York smiles hard for a picture during the Sponsor’s Ball. 8

Across: Down: 1. The greatest janitor of all time. 2. Colonel York and Mr. Bussman’s 3. The best kicker on the football team. new favorite activity. 5. The best P.E. teacher Benedictine has 4. The go-to spot during a class that Deacon seen since Father John Mary. Bob subs for. 8. Walter Harrington’s own personal school 5. What will be dumped on your car if you bus. park 11. The amount of work that seniors will in senior parking? be doing during the second semester. 7. Benedictine’s nicest on-campus facility. 12. Colonel York’s head. 9. Thank you for sharing…? 15. Football team’s favorite food. 10. Seniors that love to camp out at the school 18. Might as well be optional for seniors. and have a great time. A church drawn by senior Cadet, Mauricio Acosta. 13. The newest face of Benedictine basketball. 14. The best item to steal from a locker to go Shopping. 16. Off limits for all Cadets (even if you have a torn ACL) 17. Hands out AWOL’s to seniors like candy on Halloween. New Chevron staff: Editor in Chief: Jake Lingle

Composition: Jason Canestrino and Ike Andrews Writers: Dean Ngendakuriyo, Justin Henry, Ellis Brooks, Hank Berling, Dylan Taylor, Christopher Firment, Caleb Childress, Larry James, Sterling Palmer, Ike Andrews,

Lane Stadium, home of the Virginia Tech Football team, drawn by Cadet and Chris Collins. Gene Kastelberg. Photo Editor: Nathan Bahen Photographer: Alex Williams. 9 Academic Remediation at Benedictine The Future of “AR”: Commentary By Hank Berling On the other hand, AR Every year at Benedictine right after the first quarter ends, the cafeteria can be a great thing, and I know is filled from 3:30 to 4:15 with cadets on Academic Remediation (AR). To get on this from a personal experience. AR, a Cadet must receive a grade under seventy percent or a grade point aver- My time on AR as a freshman age below 2.0. AR can be seen as a good or a bad thing. Personally, while I don’t really got under my skin and think BCP should have AR, I do believe it does some good. made me realize how important As a student who has been on AR before, I’ve seen what it's really like. high school really is. Ever since During AR you are supposed to sit in the cafeteria and study or do homework being put on AR I have tried much the whole time. Instead, you will see kids with their heads down, doing whatever harder, not just in school, but in it takes to avoid doing work. If a Cadet is put on AR, that means he can’t play everything I do. If it worked this a sport or participate in after school activities for the remainder of that quarter. way for everyone, AR would Some people come to Benedictine for the great athletic opportunities the school be incredible, but punishment makes every person react in a different way. Dean offers. A lot of these kids seem to get on AR, get discouraged, get lazy, and never Ngendakuriyo, a Cadet who supports AR, said,“It motivates athletes to excel in the raise their grades. You will see, far too often, people getting on AR after the first classroom so they can keep playing the sport they love.” There is no doubt, AR is quarter and never getting off of it. Stuff like this will make them question great in these circumstances. why they’re even at Benedictine in the first place. I am not throwing out I don’t agree with Benedictine having accusations but, year after year, there is that same rumor going around about academic remediation. However, I completely an athlete with failing grades managing to get his grades up on the last day understand why it's necessary. I think BCP possible. I’m not saying he didn’t get his grades up on their own, but these should consider some kind of alternative rumors are the kind of thing that really irritate students on AR who think it’s punishment. Perhaps if an athlete fails a class not fair. he can continue to play their sport but, once his My final point against AR is when a student's GPA isn’t bad, but he grade slips back down to failing, he should be failed a single class. Just one big mess-up in one class can put you on AR put on AR until he manages to get it back up to even if you’re the smartest student in the school. Senior Nathan Bahen said passing. AR at Benedictine is something every “I think it’s (AR) good, but it’s bad: A kid can have straight A’s with one F cadet has strong feelings about one way or the and still end up on AR.” If it was my choice, I would get rid of AR. Many other. Because of this, I think the school and people, however, would say it’s a good thing that it’s not my choice. the people who think it’s pointless should find The Last Run The Stress of Being a Senior By Caleb Childress nold, senior Being a senior has many benefits, but it also summer, the rising 12th-graders write their essays that year is the comes with many stressful moments and overwhelm- they’ll put on applications. Seniors usually write about most tire- ing encounters. The final year is most chaotic because a lifelong experience or anything that will impress some out of it is the time of the college application process, but college admission directors. “For my essay, I wrote all the four seniors about our foster child from the Dominican Republic,” years. “The must also said Caleb Autry, who hopes to attend the University hardest part try to stay of South Carolina. There’s a lot of pressure in revising about being on top and editing applications, because it’s the only repre- a senior is Benedictine Seniors discuss topics of interest during their Military class. of their sentation a college will see of the student, outside of walking out school- the standard information on applications. Most seniors of Coach Arnold’s class knowing you took an ‘L’ on work. go through extensive research of schools that inter- another one of his quizzes,” said Jack Irby, who is a There’s est them, and this helps them decide what schools senior who wishes to attend Howard University next a lot of are the most fitting to their personality and styles. year. Once a senior gets accepted into his desired col- anxiety Important factors for choosing a college are location, lege, ‘senioritis’ or the ‘senior slope’ kicks in because that seniors size, and desirable majors, but for most students, the there really is no reason to put forth any effort, making Senior Cadets enjoy orienting a fresh- experience feel of the school and the atmosphere of the campus school work even more challenging. man during their lunch period. during their are the deciding factors. The most popular colleges Every Benedictine Cadet will always remem- final year, among Benedictine seniors are Radford University, ber his first day here as if it were yesterday. However, as they worry constantly about their future and where Hampden-Sydney College, and the Virginia Military the four years that most students spend at the school they will be at this time next year. Every senior would Institute. feels nothing like a short experience. With almost half certainly agree that this is the most stressful time of While focusing on college applications, a se- of the school year over, seniors are running low on his life, but he must remained focused and positive nior also has to focus on his school work. Grades and time to cherish the moments that happen everyday. throughout the difficult process. standardized test scores are the most important part of Seniors can finally look forward to their future and Applying to college is the most stressful part senior year as he determines where he will fresh start at college, although it hurts having to say of senior year, and it ultimately determines students’ be accepted, or even if he will receive scholarship goodbye to Benedictine and the brothers to whom futures, so it’s not something to disregard. During the money. With teachers like the legendary Coach Ar- they have become close. 10

From Page 16:The Season Has Fall-en Seniors Josh Wyland, a Virginia Tech commit, along with Brady Biller, a maintain that weight own personal record and achieved personal mile- as captains. Cadet Egan led the team with eight goals VMI commit, and Alex Choate, all look to lead the wrestling team to yet another throughout the season if stones. Coach Scott Schaefer, the head coach, and, right behind him on the stat sheet was Cadet title. However, completing this task will be very difficult, and Wyland acknowl- they wish to compete in was very pleased with how the runners improved Garcia, with six goals. When asked how he felt about edged this saying, “We are looking to compete at a high level again this season, but each match. as the season went on. He went on to say how the season Cadet Egan stated, “It was a great season I feel like we can win States again.” The wrestling team he loved the work ethic and determination from with a lot of great memories, despite us not having as Wyland, who wrestles at 138 pounds and went 31-7 last year, has a chance has lost several key per- all the runners day in and day out. Even with the many wins as we hoped.” to solidify his title as the most decorated wrestler to ever come through Benedic- formers from last year that team being extremely small, “the season was Cadet Garcia then added, “The most memo- tine. He is also a two-time “Prep” All-American, and he has won the individual were factors in the team’s full of great moments,” said coach Schaefer. rable moment has to be when I scored the last-min- state championship each of the past three years. Biller, a fellow senior of Wyland, success, but they do still The sole leader of the group of young men was ute goal to beat St. John Paul the Great.” The high- went 42-21 last year, also winning the individual state championship for his weight have a core group to get the senior Caleb Childress. “This season was by far light of the season was when they gave the defending class. Christos Avgeros, a junior who went 48-18 last year, did not deny the signifi- job done. However, new my favorite out of the three years I have run.” He state champions Paul VI a run for their money. They cance of this season, but also made a bold claim, saying, “I think we are going to faces are prepared to step in added, “It’s because it was a small team. We all were tied at 1-1 for 80 minutes and then PVI scored win states and place top five in prep nationals this year.” for the Cadets this year, and challenged each other and that helped us a lot. the game-winning goal. The team fought hard but Avgeros is not a senior, but he knows what the team has to do to win states, Coach Hall and the team We all improved our times as the season went came up short. Even though they didn’t go out as and the work that is required along the way. His brother, Ulysses Avgeros, graduat- are not worried at all. Stan- on.” planned, they enjoyed playing the sport they love for ed in the class of 2014, and was part of the of the first team to win the VISAA State ley Glover, a senior, will be The team celebrates as they score a goal against the Championship. Not every wrestler knows the exact path to the rings that have been called upon to wrestle for Cadet Childress, Cadet Wright and defending State Champions Paul VI the school they love. They hope the seniors next year Cadet Craven finished off their season on a good can go out on a better note and would like to give accumulated over the years, but the core leaders of the team have enough experi- the first time in his Bene- ence to go around. dictine athletic career, but is note on November 11th in the VISAA State “Every game, no matter who we played, ended up them one piece of advice: “Enjoy it while you can.” Championship meet. Cadet Wright led the way with The cross country team finished the sea- When the wrestling confident that he can fill the being a close game.” He added, ”We played well but team has practice, they shoes of former heavyweight wrestler, Williams. Glover is optimistic and excited a time of 18:43. Cadet Childress said, “It was a cold, did not know how to finish.” son with all the runners achieving their goal. Look hard course but it was very fun.” He also added, “I for many of them to be running indoor track in the are in temperatures close for this opportunity, saying, “I am looking forward to wrestling this year and it is Coming into this season, they knew they had to 100 degrees Fahren- a challenge that I am definitely willing to take on.” Glover will also be playing for was extremely emotional when I crossed the finish a big challenge ahead of them in filling the spots of winter and outdoor track in the spring. While the line in my last high school cross country meet.” soccer team fell short of their expectations, they heit. They practice in the new rugby team at Benedictine this year, so he will certainly have a full plate the former players that graduated last year. But these conditions to put as the school year moves forward. The Benedictine soccer team didn’t have the what they needed the most was to find people who have a positive outlook on the future with a lot of season it planned. It finished with a record of 3-14-2. young talent returning next season. They will look to them in the best possible The team got off to a solid start as the varsity placed second in the John would step up and become leaders. Two players that shape to compete and Carroll Early Bird Special at the end of November. Michael Albergo (120 lb.), Coach Gill, the assistant head coach, was very proud stepped up to fill the leadership roles were seniors start building team chemistry during the off-season of how the team competed each and every game. workouts. dominate their oppo- Henry Brielmair (113 lb.), Josh Wyland (145 lb.), Avgeros (160 lb.) and Isaiah Ryan Egan and Julio Garcia, who were both chosen nents during the season. Jones (220 lb.) won their divisions. This method also helps The wrestling team never looks to sell themselves short, and they are the wrestlers “cut possibly the most confident sports team at Benedictine. The team has another End of The Hall weight,” which is the strong group of seniors that have great leadership, knowledge, and skills, that will Coach Hall Resigns as Soccer Coach wrestling term for losing greatly help those that are inexperienced or unfamiliar with this journey. Each the weight on their body new wrestler will have his name called at some point during the season to step in By: Dean Ngendakuriyo Senior captains Ryan Egan and Julio Garcia that makes them over- and compete at a high level, and Coach Hall and the senior wrestlers will make After five memorable years as the head coach of the both credit their achievements on the soccer pitch weight for their weight sure they are prepared. With so many talented returning wrestlers, the Benedictine Benedictine varsity soccer team, Coach Hall has de- to Coach Hall. “He was a great coach, and one class. Each wrestler wrestling team looks primed to fulfill their expectation of winning a ring, and this cided to call it quits. During his five-year tenure, the of the best I have had,” said Egan. “He always competes in a specific year, possibly winning their fourth straight VISAA State Championship. teams struggled to overcome their difficult schedules pushed the players to work hard and do our best weight class, so they must that they faced every year, but Hall still managed to in not only soccer, but also in life.” send many players to the next level. Even though Garcia echoed Egan’s statements, “Coach Hall he envisioned more success for the team, he enjoyed was a great coach; he motivated me in all that I his job. Hall said, “My resignation had nothing to do did. Because of him, I thinking about playing soc- with wins or losses.” cer next year.” Coach Gill, a former player for Coach Hall, and Egan went on to mention his favorite memory varsity soccer assistant coach and current U.S His- with Coach Hall, saying, “One of my favorite tory teacher at Benedictine College Preparatory, has memories with [Coach Hall] was during my ju- been chosen to become the new head coach of the nior year when we were beating Bishop Sullivan varsity team. Hall speaks very highly of Gill, saying, 1-0 at the half. He called us in and screamed at “I wanted to pass the torch down to him. [Coach the top of his lungs, ‘We can win this!’.” Gill] is a great guy with a lot of knowledge about This kind of passion is what Egan and his fellow the game.” He also stated, “He can dedicate more soccer teammates loved about Hall over the years, of his time during the winter, when I am coaching and his energy will be surely missed. wrestling.” Even though Coach Hall may have coached his Coach Hall says he will miss coaching the team, last soccer game at Benedictine, he definitely is but also said he is glad that he can now spend more Coach Hall gets his players amped up for a big home game. not going anywhere. Hall will still be around the time with his family.When Hall was asked what made Benedictine community, as he is, of course, still the him start coaching soccer at Benedictine, he said, “ I have always loved the game athletic director, as well as the head coach of the dominating wrestling team. Headmaster Grapes with Nick Corn- of soccer, and I wanted to bring my passion to the team.” well, Class of 2002, standing in front of the Wall of Warriors. From Page 1: Four-Peat Season Begins 11 Seniors Josh Wyland, a Virginia Tech commit, along with Brady Biller, a maintain that weight VMI commit, and Alex Choate, all look to lead the wrestling team to yet another throughout the season if title. However, completing this task will be very difficult, and Wyland acknowl- they wish to compete in edged this saying, “We are looking to compete at a high level again this season, but each match. I feel like we can win States again.” The wrestling team Wyland, who wrestles at 138 pounds and went 31-7 last year, has a chance has lost several key per- to solidify his title as the most decorated wrestler to ever come through Benedic- formers from last year that tine. He is also a two-time “Prep” All-American, and he has won the individual were factors in the team’s state championship each of the past three years. Biller, a fellow senior of Wyland, success, but they do still went 42-21 last year, also winning the individual state championship for his weight have a core group to get the class. Christos Avgeros, a junior who went 48-18 last year, did not deny the signifi- job done. However, new cance of this season, but also made a bold claim, saying, “I think we are going to faces are prepared to step in win states and place top five in prep nationals this year.” for the Cadets this year, and Avgeros is not a senior, but he knows what the team has to do to win states, Coach Hall and the team and the work that is required along the way. His brother, Ulysses Avgeros, graduat- are not worried at all. Stan- ed in the class of 2014, and was part of the of the first team to win the VISAA State ley Glover, a senior, will be Championship. Not every wrestler knows the exact path to the rings that have been called upon to wrestle for accumulated over the years, but the core leaders of the team have enough experi- the first time in his Bene- Junior, Nick Johnson, pins his opponent to gain points ence to go around. dictine athletic career, but is for the Cadets. When the wrestling confident that he can fill the team has practice, they shoes of former heavyweight wrestler, Williams. Glover is optimistic and excited are in temperatures close for this opportunity, saying, “I am looking forward to wrestling this year and it is to 100 degrees Fahren- a challenge that I am definitely willing to take on.” Glover will also be playing for heit. They practice in the new rugby team at Benedictine this year, so he will certainly have a full plate these conditions to put as the school year moves forward. them in the best possible The team got off to a solid start as the varsity placed second in the John shape to compete and Carroll Early Bird Special at the end of November. Michael Albergo (120 lb.), dominate their oppo- Henry Brielmair (113 lb.), Josh Wyland (145 lb.), Avgeros (160 lb.) and Isaiah nents during the season. Jones (220 lb.) won their divisions. This method also helps The wrestling team never looks to sell themselves short, and they are the wrestlers “cut possibly the most confident sports team at Benedictine. The team has another weight,” which is the strong group of seniors that have great leadership, knowledge, and skills, that will wrestling term for losing greatly help those that are inexperienced or unfamiliar with this journey. Each the weight on their body new wrestler will have his name called at some point during the season to step in that makes them over- and compete at a high level, and Coach Hall and the senior wrestlers will make weight for their weight sure they are prepared. With so many talented returning wrestlers, the Benedictine class. Each wrestler wrestling team looks primed to fulfill their expectation of winning a ring, and this Senior, Alex Choate defeats his opponent in front of the competes in a specific year, possibly winning their fourth straight VISAA State Championship. home crowd. weight class, so they must Wall of Warriors: Wrestling Team Honors Legends of the Past By Chris Collins State wrestler and as the Battalion Commander. Cornwell is currently a pilot in the The Wall of Warriors stands inside the Navy who flies the C2 Greyhound. He is a devout Catholic who lives in Virginia wrestling room towards the back of the Ab- with his family. “It is really cool to me how we show respect to those who served bey. It acknowledges all of the former Cadets in the military. It truly shows that the brotherhood at this school means something,” that have been through the wrestling program said senior wrestling captain Brady Biller. and now serve in the military. They recognize The first inductee on this wall last year was Pete McKenna. At Benedictine, these men by placing a picture of them under along with being a wrestler, McKenna played on the defensive line for football and the words “Wall of Warriors”. Right now was also a great English student. After graduation in 2006, Pete McKenna went there are only two that are on the wall, by the directly to the Marine Corps. McKenna was deployed to northern Iraq in 2007 to names of Pete McKenna and Nick Cornwell. fight against the evil powers of ISIS. He always had a heart to serve his fellow man Each year a Cadet is honored on this wall: this but, following the tragedy of 9/11, McKenna felt this drive to make a difference. year’s inductee is Nick Cornwell. “Wrestling In conclusion, the Wall of Warriors gives the Benedictine community a has a fighting-type spirit to it and you have to chance to acknowledge those who served our country. These men were also part of be willing to fight to go into the military,” said the wrestling team that taught them important life traits such as sacrifice and broth- Coach Hall, the varsity wrestling coach. erhood. This new tradition is a great addition to the school because it highlights the Headmaster Grapes with Nick Corn- Nick Cornwell graduated Benedictine in well, Class of 2002, standing in front wrestling program in its efforts to help create men of conscience, discipline, and of the Wall of Warriors. 2002 finishing high school as a three-time All- achievement. 12 Putting Class in the Classic Benedictine Set to Host Annual Christmas Tournament

By Justin Henry tine community and has put two Think of a time where all the sons through the program. Currently, alumni are in one place, reminisc- he is the associate head coach of ing on their rowdy times as Cadets. the basketball team. Coach Royster One has to think no further than the has an immense amount of passion renowned Benedictine Capital City towards Benedictine and especially Classic (BCCC). Commonly referred the BCCC. In the first seventeen to as the B-Triple-C, it is the landmark years of the tournament’s existence, basketball tournament for the school. the Cadets had captured the glory of For those who are unaware of the winning it only once. He elaborated BCCC, it originated under the reign of on the significance of the tourna- the historic coach, Warren Rutledge. ment by emphasizing that winning Coach Rutledge is the all-time win- the BCCC was equivalent to winning ningest coach in Virginia basketball the state championship. Also, he history. During Christmas Break stated the BCCC was special to him in the 1960’s, there were no events because, “It’s an overall gathering that took place. While Coach Rut- during Christmas time and a chance ledge was at the Alhambra Catholic to reminisce with people I haven’t Tournament in Maryland, he got the seen in ages.” idea of forming a Christmas tourna- The BCCC is a time for ment, which led to the creation of the the alumni to catch up with people, BCCC. Initially, the BCCC was a have a few drinks and cheer on their Former Cadet Cutch Ellis throws one down in front of the ecstatic alumni. fund-raiser for the athletic association fellow Cadets to victory. In addition, in which solely Catholic schools com- Barry Gibrall, class of 1964, has been expenses of the opposing teams such wide sensation. This year BCCC con- peted. After receiving recognition, it a part of the Benedictine community as food and shelter. Mr. Gibrall harped sists of elite teams such as Archbishop evolved into powerhouse teams along since his years as a teenager. He is in on how every year, he receives calls Carroll, St. Maria Goretti, Millwood the east coast participating, as well. charge of the BCCC and had a close from numerous individuals commend- and McDonough. The Cadets hope Mark Royster, class of 1983, relationship with Coach Rutledge. Mr. ing the school on such a beautifully to end the three-year drought and played under Coach Rutledge during Gibrall believes the speciality of the operated event. He gives full credit capture the elusive BCCC title. Being the evolving years of the BCCC. He tournament lies within the hospitality. to Coach Rutledge for the expansion crowned champions of the BCCC is an active member in the Benedic- Benedictine pays for all the of the tournament and the impact he should give the basketball team added had on other schools. For instance, confidence going into the new year as because of the BCCC, many it heads toward the grueling stretch of schools now host their own Christ- the season. mas tournament. As a testament to his friendship with Coach Rutledge, he stated,”I want to continue to car- ry the tradition of the BCCC that Coach Rut established.” The BCCC has extreme importance to the Benedictine community. It started in 1966 as a Catholic Senior Guard Aaron Fowlkes nails one from deep. The Cadet student section lets out a roar to lift the Cadets to victory. tournament and has evolved into a country- The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen Catholic League Under Consideration 13 By Dylan Taylor Catholic League was, unfortunately that the league may end up not working During the 2015 calendar year, six Virginia schools came up with a plan for out. After the 2015 football season, Chris Scott, the Ocean Lakes head football the potential creation of a Catholic Athletic League. The league was planned coach, stepped down to take the same position at Bishop Sullivan. However, to consist of private, Virginia Catholic Schools, including Benedictine College Scott had been the subject of two suspensions for his violations of public school Preparatory. This idea was for the purpose of athletic competition between these player recruitment regulations during that year as well. Scott’s hiring at Bishop schools in the state. In addition to Benedictine, the league was supposed to Sullivan led to controversy, and when several of his former players announced include Bishop Ireton (Alexandria), Bishop O’Connell (Arlington), Bishop Sul- that they would transfer to remain playing under him, things were made a lot livan (Virginia Beach), Pope John Paul the Great (Dumfries), and Paul VI (Al- worse. In January of 2016, a meeting in Dumfries, Virginia at Pope Jean Paul exandria). In January of 2016, each school’s Athletic Directors met in Dumfries, the Great to discuss a potential Catholic-only league, eventually caused each Virginia, at Pope John Paul the Great, to discuss a potential Catholic-only Athletic director of the other five schools to reconsider making this move. league. The Bishop O’Connell Athletic Director, Joe Wootten, was optimistic According to Coach Hall, Benedictine’s Athletic Director, unfortunately, the in the initial discussions, but also said this meeting was “very preliminary,” ac- directors broke off the discussions of the Catholic league’s formation, but with cording to a Washington Post Article. each having such strong initial interest in this move, the door was left open for Each school, rooted in the Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Associa- revisiting the idea in the near future. tion (VISAA), would need to remove itself from the league. Wootten said, “Is it Regardless of the previous failures of the attempts to create the Catholic a possibility? No doubt it is,” but also hinted towards the difficulty of a change League, optimism is still high for these programs that something could hap- of this magnitude. The main cause of difficulty for this change, would of pen in the future. Bill Simmons, Bishop Ireton Athletic Director, was asked of course, be the geographical separation of each school. Benedictine, for example, the progress on the league before the demise. He responded, “We did not have is located just outside of Richmond, while Bishop Sullivan sits near Virginia a logo printed up or anything. We didn’t get into the formalities, but we had Beach. Additionally, the schools differ in enrollment sizes: Benedictine only has preliminary conversations as Catholics together,” according to the Washington 252 students, while Sullivan and other schools reach up to 1,100 enrollees. So, Post Article. Coach Hall believes that this plan can and will work, and would while Bishop Sullivan representatives and other schools say, “Neither size nor be beneficial for every school that joins. Coach Hall said, “I think it would be travel disparities are issues,” according to the Washington Post Article, it defi- great. [Benedictine] always tries to schedule Catholic schools because of our nitely is a topic of discussion. However, the biggest separation in this group of school’s identity, but this league will help us obtain even more games.” The schools came by way of events that were much bigger than anything else, and Catholic League might be far from being put into place , but it would not be with these came extreme controversy in the entire state. surprising if this league is founded and established as a powerhouse union of The biggest obstacle that these schools faced during the negotiations of the Virginia schools in the upcoming years. From Page 16: Highly Hyped Hoops Virginia finished not far behind, with an identity change this year, having an dictions will be close to estimation; but a record of 13-5. As always, Duke had abundant number of good teams at the every season there are dark horses that an impressive recruiting class come in top last year versus only a couple front appear in each conference. The Univer- that ranked second in the country, ac- runners this year. The question is not if sity of Louisiana-Monroe is a part of cording to the ESPN rankings. “UVA Kansas will win the Big 12, it’s if they the Sun Belt, which is not a power five will win the ACC this year because can win the National Championship. conference. The Warhawks’ star point Duke’s downfall will be their inexperi- “They have a bunch of experienced guard is Benedictine alum Nick Coppo- ence, and UNC lost their better players players and adding the true freshman la. Last season, he became the all-time The Kentucky Wildcats get ready to take in the draft so they do not have what Josh Jackson seals the deal for them assist leader in ULM history with 409, the court in front of a packed crowd it takes to repeat,” senior sports fanatic to win it all,” Marcus Holman said breaking the previous record of 398 He just got bigger and stronger in col- Christian Bolton. about why Kansas has enough to win which stood for 46 years. So as you are lege,” Coach Churchwell said about Over the years, the Pac-12 the championship. It should be interest- watching college basketball season be the star. The Spartans are the reigning conference has improved tremendously ing to see if another contender will rise sure to check out former Cadets John- conference champions and hope to re- in college basketball. Last year, Oregon from this conference. A sleeper team son and Coppola because they could peat this year. “They are returning a lot represented the conference well by that people should be on the watch for very well be on their way to Phoenix. of players and they are playing a small making it to the Elite 8 in the March is West Virginia, which has come off lineup that will let them get out and run Madness tournament. The Ducks are an NCAA tournament appearance last the break,” varsity basketball player, projected to make it to the Final Four season. Seneca Louis, said when asked why he this season, in the tournament. The run Last but not least, the SEC is thinks the Michigan State is the Big 10 as preseason Pac-12 favorites ended expecting the same result at the top of favorite. Louis is one of many that be- this year with Oregon dethroning Ari- the conference standings. Kentucky has lieves this team can go far this season. zona. It only makes sense for the Ducks been a powerhouse in the Southeast- Arguably the best basketball to be the favorite, because they beat the ern conference for a while now. They conference in the NCAA, the ACC was Wildcats twice last season in regular constantly reload with talent, because responsible for sending six teams to the season play, Oregon also won the Pac- they are known for putting players in Sweet 16 of the NCAA tournament 12 tournament last year. Still, the Ore- the NBA. The problem that the Wild- last year. The University of North Car- gon Ducks need to be looking over their cats will run into is if they cannot build The Duke Blue Devils will look to take olina won the regular season with a shoulder for the Arizona Wildcats. team chemistry before it is too late. their young team to the top this year. conference record of 14-4. Miami and The Big 12 is going through Hopefully by March the pre- 14 Who Will Win? CFB Predictions / NFL Playoffs

By Sterling Palmer a playoff spot and bringing home a championship, but this year sure As the College Football and National Football League proceed further into is shaping up to be memorable for the season, some teams begin to separate themselves from the pack. Certain teams sure. are now starting to establish themselves as contenders for a championship and In the College Football Play- indicate that they can compete with the best. The contenders for this year’s NFL offs, Nick Saban and his Crimson Super Bowl are constantly up in Tide in Alabama have dominated the air, but several teams have every opponent and still remain shown signs of potential and untouched at 12-0, atop the rank- displayed their talent. ings. Besides the domination of Alabama, however, this season This year, in the National has been one of controversy and Football League, some unusual chaos. In mid-November, we teams have shown signs of their saw the first weekend where the emergence second, as com- third, petitors. and How- fourth ever, some seed Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson totes typically in the the football for a big run. dominat- rank- ing teams, ings were upset by their opponents. On the weekend such as the of December 4th, the Selection Committee finalized its Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr and Green Bay decision on who will enter the College Football Playoffs. wide receiver Amari Cooper plot to score a touch- Packers, The Alabama Crimson Tide, not surprisingly, has taken down. with quar- the first seed. The Ohio State Buckeyes and Clemson Ti- terback gers come in at the second and third seeds. Meanwhile, Aaron Rodgers, and the Seattle Seahawks, with their quarter- the Washington Huskies demolished the Colorado Buf- back Russell Wilson, have not been consistent to this point. In faloes in the PAC-12 Championship over the weekend, addition, the NFC Champions of last year, Carolina Panthers, and managed to hold onto the fourth seed of the playoffs. have faced adversity and struggled mightily throughout this This year’s College Football Playoffs will not be season. The NFL has some teams that appear to be declining, interesting until the championship game in my opinion. but also some new faces on the block. Even though Washington’s offense has been efficient this The talented young team of the Oakland Raiders, along season, they will still be deathrow when they face Ala- with star players Derek Carr, Amari Cooper, and Khalil Mack, bama in the Chick-fil-A, because they are no match for are a youthful group that have taken the league by storm. Ad- Alabama quarterback Jalen Hurts scrambles Nick Saban’s defense. In terms of the Fiesta Bowl, Clem- ditionally, the rookie duo of the Cowboy’s quarterback Dak for a big first down. son vs Ohio State, that will be one definitely to tune into Prescott and running back Ezekiel Elliott, has been the biggest on New Year’s Eve. We have seen Clemson look very surprise of the season. Elliot has led the NFL in rushing all season and is on pace good and also play very poorly, but still find a way to prevail in the end. I believe to shatter rookie rushing records, and NFL records for single-season yardage. The it will be a battle, for sure, but only if Ohio State’s defense makes a statement, giv- league has been one of youth this year and in years past, but familiar faces like ing Deshaun Watson pressure in the pocket and stopping the run. Clemson’ wide Tom Brady, Von Miller, receiver corps is the best of Julio Jones, and oth- the best, having dynamic ers, have resumed their playmakers in the slot and dominating capabilities. outside, like Mike Williams, Through the first three Deon Cain, Jordan Leg- quarters of the NFL gett and Hunter Renfrow. season, the Dallas Cow- If Watson manages to get boys and New England the ball to those threats, Patriots seemingly have the Ohio State defense will control over the NFC have a long day. In the end, and AFC, respectively. regardless of who advances However, teams like the to the championship, I Arizona Cardinals, the predict Nick Saban will be Denver Broncos, the adding on to his legacy and Pittsburgh Steelers and his trophy case once more others, still pose a threat as Alabama will be crowned for the championship the 2016 College Football frontrunners. Only time Playoff Champions. Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott and running back will reveal which teams Penn State running back, Saquon Barkley hurdles Ezekiel Elliott embrace after a touchdown. are capable of securing an Iowa defender. 15 From Page 16: Game of Inches After losing a solid senior class from last year’s team, many questioned how that would affect the talent I finally was able to return, though, I’m glad I and big-play ability that we had become so accustomed could perform for my team.” Examples such as to seeing. But the leadership and perseverance of the fol- this show the selfless attitude, which Coach Lilly lowing class proved to overcome those obstacles. Senior prides himself on instilling in his players. class players who have contributed to previous success, In conclusion, this wasn’t the outcome such as Graham Flinn, Dean Ngendakuriyo (leader in that the football program was hoping for. In the pass deflections), Ellis Brooks (tackle and sack leader), end, they embodied the characteristics and vir- Sterling Palmer (leading receiver), and Gene Kastelberg, tues Benedictine instills in all students, which is are just a few of the seniors who provided the strong lead- preparing well for everything they do and, more ership that guided the team throughout the season. Every importantly, fighting for the brotherhood that has one of them embodied different roles on the team that been created through their time here. Next year, they personally felt they could take on to make the team the Cadets are expected to be back and stronger better. For instance, Kastelberg stated,” I really wanted to than ever, led by athletes such as Chris Col- be the leader for the offensive lineman and share all the lins, Wendell Davis, and Caleb Grimes (leading knowledge I’ve gained over the years.” Another unique rusher). They should be a physical, relentless case can be found in Flinn, who said,” My goal was to team as expected from a team of Coach Lilly, do my job as well as I possibly could, which was affected and will hopefully bring the hardware back to when I was injured in the beginning of the season. But the halls of Benedictine. then I wanted to be the best teammate possible. When Andrew Puccinelli prepares to hand the ball off to running back, Caleb Grimes. An Armoured Mack Truck Brooks Selected to Under Armour All-American Game By Justin Henry plays, which triggers roaring cheers from the crowd. under the spotlight There isn’t a greater feeling for an athlete than Brooks has received an immense amount of recogni- trying to make their being recognized for the hard work that’s put towards tion around the country for his athletic prowess. His presence known. perfecting his craft. Clelin Ferrell, who’s now wreak- selection to play in the Under Armour All-American The Under Armour ing havoc for Clemson’s defense, was rewarded with game solidifies his talent. He stated, “It’s a great feeling All-American game being selected to the Under Armour All-American being selected, because it shows my hard work is being will be the biggest game his senior year at Benedictine. Ellis Brooks recognized by many around the country.” stage he’s ever is the next Cadet to follow in Ferrell’s footsteps, in Linebackers have a reputation for being the played on, but he’s being recognized for his dominance on the football toughest, most physical players on the field. Brooks excited for the ex- field. Being selected to play on national televi- believes that aside from his physicality, his ability to posure and oppor- sion in the Under Armour All-American game is a run sideline to sideline and his relentlessness to seize tunity to represent prestigious honor as an athlete. The Under Armour the moment are what separates him from other line- his city and school. All-American game is known for recruiting the best backers. Coach Padrone, who coaches the lineback- Addition- players around the country to showcase their talents ers, stated, “Once the ball is snapped, Ellis has the ally, Brooks is Brooks accepts his Under on one field. A few alumni who’ve participated in quickest reaction to attack the ball.” highly sought- Armour jersey at a ceremony at Benedictine. this game happen to be the likes of NFL stars AJ Coach Padrone also commends Brooks for his after by a wide Green, Jameis Winston and Julio Jones. For Brooks, mental appreciation of the game. He stated, “Ellis variety of this represents that is the smartest player on the team. He’s constantly schools. He has received over 20 D1 scholarships he is among the best studying the game, trying to find ways to improve his from notable schools such as Michigan, Notre Dame, football players in performance.” Maryland and North Carolina. Many athletes follow the country. Additionally, Brooks is a natural-born leader. the tradition of committing on television at the Under Brooks has When he speaks to his teammates before games, he Armour All-American game, but Brooks stated that been an integral wants his passion to be felt within the locker room to he needs more time to ponder his life-changing deci- part of the football motivate his guys. He elaborated by saying, “Being sion. team’s success for a great athlete goes further than just individual skills. This is an incredible achievement for Brooks, the past four years. It’s essential to have additional qualities such as lead- which makes the Benedictine community proud. Standing at 6’1, 225 ership and passion to round yourself out.” Cadets and alumni will all have their eyes on Brooks pounds, he anchors Playing among the best players in the country on January 1st, but delivering a spectacular perfor- the defense. He’s will be a tremendous test for Brooks. It’s an op- mance is second nature to him. Congratulations to El- the vocal leader of portunity for him to display his talents and improve lis Brooks on such a remarkable honor. Who knows, the team and shows upon his weaknesses. He believes this will be a great maybe next year someone else will be representing relentless passion experience for him, because it’s a small taste of how Benedictine in the Under Armour All-American Ellis Brooks gestures to the for the game when college football will be; big time athletes, playing game once again. student section after making a making impactful clutch sack. 16

New ChevronIt’s All About the Sports Sports The Season Has Fall-en Highly Hyped Hoops Fall Sports Come to an End A Look at the 2016-17 College Basketball Season By Chris Collins teams in the top basketball conferences, The NCAA College Basketball which are the Big Ten, ACC, Pac-12, Big Championship game will be held at the 12, and SEC. University of Phoenix Stadium in Arizo- For the Big Ten conference it na, and the road to this goal begins now. will be a constant battle until the end to Nearly every team begins its season decide who will win the conference. The with optimistic hope that they will be in two teams that are highly expected to do contention when March Madness rolls well are the Michigan State Spartans and around. But as we all know, there are the Indiana Hoosiers. Indiana has a Bene- always front runners, rebuilding squads, dictine alum on the current roster by the and teams that are just happy to win a name of Robert Johnson. “I feel like Rob conference game. We talked with some has the potential to be a top-five player in of the varsity basketball players and col- the conference. He was already extremely lege basketball fans within the school. skilled when he was here at Benedictine. Here is a peak at the projected leading See Highly Hyped Hoops, Page 13

Cross Country Runners prepare to run in the first home meet in a couple of years. By Dean Ngendakuriyo a few good moments throughout After running their last the season. race and scoring their final goal, the The cross country team cross country and soccer teams saw had a roster of three varsity run- their seasons come to an end. While ners and two junior varsity runners. both teams fell short of where they The varsity runners were senior wanted to be, they both had some Caleb Childress and juniors Gavin promising moments. The cross Wright and Andrew Craven. The country team was slim on runners, JV runners were freshmen Patrick but all had amazing individual sea- White and Cullen Vita. Running in sons. Meanwhile the soccer team, 10 meets; each individual set his Former Cadet, and current Indiana Hoo- Frank Mason of the Kansas Jayhawks looks to lead his team to a championship falling short a couple games, had See Fall Sports , Page 14 sier, Robert Johnson in the 2015 NCAA tournament. this year. A Game of Inches By Ellis Brooks Benedictine Football Falls Short of 3-Peat ultimate goal that has been The Cadets’ 7-3 season can achieved the previous two be best described as a roller years, is one that defines them coaster of events, which they as a program and team. Fight- fought back to a third straight ing, working, and embracing state championship game, but the overall grind has been ultimately lost to Collegiate visible in this special group by a score of 22-14 . Led by shown when Coach Lilly said, head coach Greg Lilly, previous “These guys are one of the Coach of the Year, he instilled hardest working groups I’ve the football team with his prin- been around and that has been ciples of preparation and forti- shown through their dedication tude that have been the cause of to working in the weight room, success in the football program field, and most importantly the in recent years. This hard fought Senior Dean Ngendakuriyo makes a huge Senior Taurus Carroll returns a punt for the classroom.” See Game of season, despite falling short of their interception. Cadets. Inches, Page 15