On December 1, the members and families of the fall varsity athletic programs gathered to honor the athletes of the fall varsity teams. Awards were given to the most committed, most improved, and most valuable athletes on each team.
- The Bernie Ward Commitment Award is named after our beloved former faculty member, coach, and colleague Bernie Ward is for the athlete who has displayed the most passion and commitment towards bettering themselves and their teammates during the season.
- The Most Improved Player Award is awarded to the athlete who displayed the greatest amount of improvement and growth in their skills which contributed to the success of their team.
- The Most Valuable Player Award is awarded to the athlete whose contribution to the team contributed most towards that team’s success during the season.
Jump to Specific Teams
Boys Varsity Soccer
It is not about me but about us. We, as coaches, always hope to instill in our athletes this fundamental principle as it pertains to team sports. However, over the last few years, it has become more challenging to cultivate this principle. The reason is because of the many outside influences that pressure our athletes into believing that only individual, and not team, success matters.
We, as a staff, began our season with a blended combination of veteran senior players, returning juniors who played for us as sophomores last season, a new group of juniors, and two additional sophomores, all varied in personalities as well as talent. We knew the challenge ahead this season was to develop this group tactically but get these athletes to jell quickly as a team.
Throughout the season, we, as a team, experienced many victories as well as uncharacteristic defeats. However, these Firebirds successfully added to this program another winning season, making it the sixth consecutive year and appearing in our league’s playoffs for thirteen year in a row. We, as a staff, thank them for their efforts this season and look forward to the new and returning players continuing the proud traditions of this program.
Antonino Arrigo
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Being a two-year starter and senior captain this year, Antonino demonstrated quiet leadership through his actions more than words. His commitment to this team was always visually present. After all, over the last two seasons, while suffering some injuries, he seemed to bounce back faster than the average athlete because he cared so much for this team.
Joseth Castro
Most Improved Player
This player’s journey these last two years began as turbulent because though we knew he was talented, his talents were not being demonstrated in any position tactically on the field. Within a few weeks this season, that completely changed, as he became a consistent starter on our defensive line, which we as a staff relied heavily upon throughout the rest of the season.
Cristian Janosel
Most Valuable Player
This player was not only the catalyst to the central part of our tactical shape on the field but was the “heart” of our team. This young man was a manager last season due to a medical condition that did not allow him to play, but he coached from the sideline. This season, he took advantage of every second he could play on the field while continuing to lead off the field through his words and actions. It is a privilege to have this young man of character awarded the MVP this season.
All League Players
Cristian Janosel, Brady Schmidt, and Mario Lombardo
Tennis A
This season was especially challenging for the members of the Girls Varsity A Tennis team. We had a jam-packed season consisting of 14 matches in a matter of a few short weeks. Despite the demanding schedule, and hardly any time for practice and drills, the girls had quite the successful season. Each player learned from experience and adjusted their game play by trial and error. While some matches were easy, others were incredibly difficult. Many of the matches ended in super tie-breaks and come-from-behind victories after losing a first set.
Our captains this season, Riley Flanagan and Alexa Doht, demonstrated excellent leadership.They served as motivators and role models to their teammates. The team as a whole learned tremendously and worked as a cohesive unit. They pulled off some incredible wins against very skilled players, demonstrating their ability to rise to any challenge. They always came off smiling and proud of the effort they gave.
Girls—each one of you are an excellent example of the kind of athletes Kellenberg wants to have representing them. The dramatic turnaround in individual skill and team unity this season is something you should be immensely proud of. We were blessed to be able to coach such an enthusiastic and hardworking team. Congratulations on a memorable and fun season and we look forward to next year!
Emma Dolan
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
The most committed player for the Varsity Tennis A team displayed excellent sportsmanship and always had a smile on her face. This player moved up from 4th doubles to 3rd singles this year. She took lessons during the off-season to improve her skills and it showed everyday at practice and in matches. This player never missed a single practice or match and prioritized her team over many other commitments. Her opponents and coaches from other schools often commented on the kindness she showed on the courts. The Bernie Ward Commitment Award undoubtedly belongs to Emma Dolan. Congratulations, Emma!
Colleen Tierney
Most Improved Player
The most improved player award goes to someone who made incredible progress throughout the season. This player started out as timid and reserved, but soon became a reliable partner during matches. She became a backboard on the baseline, setting up her partner to put away any ball. When given feedback during changeovers, she always had a smile on her face and understood exactly what was needed of her. Her skill sets continued to improve throughout match-play. In our playoff match, she pulled off a victory in straight sets, alongside her partner, in dramatic fashion. We could not be any more proud of her achievements this season and are proud to award Colleen Tierney with the Most Improved Player Award. Congratulations, Colleen!
Riley Flanagan
Most Valuable Player
A valuable player is someone who consistently comes up with a win and does not give up when faced with a challenge. This player was relentless on the court. As a captain, she was an excellent role model to her peers with her positive attitude and determination. Additionally, she was always encouraging to her partner and teammates. The harder the challenge she faced, the more fierce of a competitor she became. Losing was NOT an option for her. Not only is she great at Tik Toks, but she also knows how to dominate on the court. This player was such a joy to coach because of her delightful disposition. We could not be more proud to honor Riley Flanagan with the Most Valuable Player Award. Congratulations, Riley!
Girls Varsity Swimming
This season was nothing short of historic for the Girls Varsity Swim Team not only in their performances but in their ability to coordinate their efforts and come together as a team. In a classic David versus Goliath fashion, the girls worked their entire season towards a singular goal. At our League Championships David beat Goliath when we touched out St. Anthony’s in the final relay to secure our victory over them and place second in our league for the first time in team history. The team also had 27 individual performances within the top 10 in the league, 4 state qualifiers, 10 performances within 1 second of the state cut, 75 season best times at our championships, and also defeated The Mary Louis Academy for the first time in 14 years. The list of achievements for this team could go on, but the team’s ability to collaborate, bond, listen, and lead was their reason for success. These seniors created this culture of success that will leave a lasting impression of greatness on the coaching staff and their teammates for the remainder of their swimming careers. Because of these incredible seniors and their impact on the rest of the team the future is bright for Kellenberg Swimming!
Riley Tachiera
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Riley has been an integral part of our team since her freshman year and even then we could see her leadership, dedication, and talent on the team. As years passed she only solidified that more, often stepping up on her own accord and putting her team’s needs above her own. Riley encouraged and welcomed others, demanded the best out of herself every time she touched the pool, and loved the sport and team making her the clear choice for captain this year. Riley is one of the most committed athletes I have ever coached.
Jane Reyes
Most Improved Player
Jane improved on all fronts this season, from a talented swimmer without the work ethic to back it up, to easily one of the hardest workers in the room. She was on a different level than she was last year, and she made sure everyone knew it. She worked tirelessly on her skills, never satisfied with her improvements and often her effort would close the gap between many swimmers who had more talent than her. Jane dropped significant time this year, regularly swimming best times at meets and placing higher than years past. Her greatest improvement came from her attitude. Jane wanted to be at practice every day, it was apparent and we knew she could lead if given the opportunity which made her a clear choice for captain.
LilyAnne Darcy
Most Valuable Player
There is not too much I can’t say about LilyAnne. LilyAnne is the epitome of “a rising tide lifts all ships”. She made every member of her team better by being better herself. She also challenged her teammates in and out of practice daily. She is the only individual states qualifier on our team, and almost did so in 2 events. She was on a state qualifying relay, swimming best times in those setting her teammates up for success only 5 minutes after placing 2nd in our league for the 100 breaststroke. LilyAnne is a powerhouse, did not lose a single 100 breaststroke race in a dual meet in the past 2 years. She is a huge part of the reason we were as good as we were the past 2 seasons, which is why she earned MVP both seasons.
All State Qualifiers
LilyAnne Darcy, Alison Nunez, Katerina Mazur, and Sofia Paggi
Girls Varsity Volleyball
A champion is so much more than digits on a scoreboard. There are plenty of teams who may post a higher numerical value in the final game of a season than their opponent, but the way in which they compile those numbers may have involved cutting corners, bickering within ranks, or relying on just sheer luck. Although the 2022 varsity volleyball team ended their season just 2 points shy of another title, they embraced championship habits throughout the entire year.
When I say “year,” I do mean that because off-season lifting sessions began in February and continued from winter to spring. Attendance was off the charts. When open gym sessions were made available through spring and summer, players showed their commitment to themselves and to one another by setting aside time to be there. Skills were improved, friendships were forged, and trust was instilled. Those things don’t just happen by magic.
The truth is that there were concrete reasons why this group of 24 was 15-0 in league play and why the 12 seniors, since 9/14/21, were 31-0 up until the last contest. There are factors that went into their sensational finishes at tournaments–capturing the Wantagh and Mineola Invitationals, snagging 2nd place at Long Beach and Harborfields, and making it to the semifinals at Smithtown. And what were those concrete reasons? They grinded out practices when it wasn’t easy. They held themselves personally accountable for their performances. They logged hours on Hudl watching film and trying to be better the next day than they had been the day before. They fostered a true love for the game and for each other. And they inspired the next generation to embrace competition and to continually work to be the best version of themselves. “1% better” was their mantra, and “Play Kellenberg-style volleyball” was their motto.
No doubt there are observers out there who will focus only on the fact that the 2022 team did not finish as champions. Numerically, you couldn’t get closer than we did with each of the three games decided at 23-25; 24-26; and 14-16. But those naysayers are missing the point–literally and figuratively. We are definitely about something bigger here, something that goes beyond x’s and o’s and mere numbers. As Clemson football coach, Dabo Swinney says, “We are changing lives.” Like a rose plucked from its branch that withers after time, championship titles fade as the calendar pages turn, but a person’s character will be remembered beyond a lifetime. Congratulations to the 2022 varsity volleyball team, for aside from being such fierce competitors, they always conducted themselves with the utmost class and sportsmanship. They embodied everything that Kellenberg stands for: Civility, Order, and Respect. And that is what makes a person and a team true champions.
Jamie Judge
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
A leader is a person who continually sublimates his/her own desires and preferences for the betterment of the people he/she is called to serve. Like Aeneas, the noble Roman soldier who always chooses others over self, Jamie Judge epitomized all that is best in leadership.
From the winter workouts to the spring training sessions to the summer open gyms, she was the force behind the scenes, generating enthusiasm, encouraging participation, and welcoming new players into the fold. With the click of a text, I knew that a quick check in with her would give me instantaneous feedback about whatever issue was at hand: what nights were best for workouts? who was teaching PREP and when? what players needed transportation to the games? how could we get everyone’s signature on the thank you cards for the managers? Having Jamie on board was like having another administrator . . . only better. Why? Because sometimes administrators establish a clear delineation between themselves and the people who report to them, and Jamie never made that distinction. She never sought attention. She never held herself aloof or superior in any way. Indeed, her teammates loved, respected, and admired her because she always treated them in kind, with that same love, respect, and equanimity.
Over and over, Jamie Judge answered the call for whatever our team needed, and I imagine that she will continue to do the same as she makes new connections and joins new “teams’ in the collegiate world. Whether she came up with two crucial digs in the back row (as she did in the 32-30 St. Anthony’s victory), served an important ace with the game on the line (as she did against Sayville at the John Glenn tourney) or crushed a line swing for game point (as she did for the final point for the 2021 title), Jamie Judge is a competitor and a leader who is driven by the heart–a heart that bleeds Kellenberg blue and gold.
Ashley Dellolio
Most Improved Player
Nobody made Ashley Dellolio sign up for extra training sessions at Sportime. Nobody forced her to play a beach tournament the first day back from a long vacation. Nobody told her to feed her body and her mind with all good things. Ashley, herself, was the impetus behind all of those endeavors, and for that, she can take all of the credit, but she won’t. That’s just not how she operates. Instead, she will give credit to every coach, every trainer, every teammate, and every teacher who has assisted her along the way and take no glory for herself. There is no patting on the back for her; she just doesn’t operate that way–especially not when she gets so much more gratification when she can do that for another person.
The strides that Ashley made from her junior year of volleyball to her senior year were nothing short of remarkable. A sometimes backrow substitution in the 2021 season, she emerged this season as a 6 rotation player and a primary passer in our offense. Her statistical contributions paved the way for us as she compiled 324 serves, 52 aces, 137 kills, 232 serve receptions, and 239 digs. Beyond the numbers, she epitomizes a few choice kernels of wisdom attributed to Sue Enquist, former UCLA softball coach and NCAA champion: “Excellence never blinks. Excellence doesn’t wait for you to get your junk together. Excellence keeps moving.” This is how Ashley Dellolio goes about ife. This is how she conducts her behavior. She never flinches, she never slows down, she never surrenders to doubt. Simply put: she competes.
Ignoring success and pursuing excellence is Ashley’s philosophy, both on the court and in the classroom. That kind of mentality pushed her name forward to become the recipient of the Most Improved Player award for the 2022 season.
Alexandra Eakin
Most Valuable Player
A team cannot reach the level of success that we enjoyed without having consistent performers who can be relied upon when tension starts to mount. For us, it came in the form of our libero, Alexandra Eakin.
Like a Nordic ice maiden, Alex is a fearless warrior who looks danger in the eye and responds with unflinching courage. The frost in her veins was an inspiration to her teammates, especially when they began to falter or hesitate in the face of perceived pressure. Because she exuded such confidence in the midst of heightened stress, the atmosphere on our side of the court almost immediately elevated, and the anxiety level simply evaporated. In no time at all, the players on either side of Alex in the back row and the ones in front of her at the net began to mirror her unwavering faith and competitive spirit.
Having a player on the roster like Alex did wonders for a team like ours. Her refusal to surrender motivated every athlete in our gym. When people witnessed how she flung her body around in order to dig the opponent’s best attacker, when they witnessed her serve point after point in order to keep other teams out-of-system, when they noticed how she committed no unforced errors in order to force the opposition to earn their points, how could they do anything else but marvel at such a standard of excellence? If the game were ever on the line, there was no better person to be handling the ball than Alex.
Statistically, Alex served 429 times, scoring 413 of them for an accuracy percentage of 96%. Furthermore, her serves weren’t just “on,” they were dynamic. Over the course of this year’s competition, Alex tallied 51 aces–a jaw-dropping, astronomical number. In serve receive, she passed 284 perfect passes and she contorted her body to make 352 digs against some of the finest attackers in Nassau and Suffolk County.
Congratulations to our Viking warrior, the on-court general who inspired and drove her teammates to compile that 31-1 league record over the last two seasons. And just as the Nordic poets would sing of the glory of past heroes, so too will we hearken back and remember the contributions Alex Eakin made to Kellenberg volleyball for many years to come.
All League Players
Alexandra Eakin, Ashley Dellolio, Riley Gildea, Stella Becker
Additional Honors
AVCA Player of the Week: Stella Becker
AVCA Best and Brightest Award (First Team): Ashley Dellolio, Jamie Judge, Chloe Rachello, Nadia Sapano, Olivia Carmody
Girls Varsity Girls Cross Country
Cross Country is a unique sport where the individual competes against hills, more hills, rugged terrain, tough adversaries, and the most daunting of all competitors-one’s own mind. As Canadian distance ace Peter Maher says, “Running is a big question mark that looms over you each day. It asks you, are you going to be strong today, or are you going to be a weakling today?” A typical encounter with this beast, the mind, might go like this 15 minutes into the race, “did I go out too fast ten minutes ago…going through the mile in 6:00 felt a little fast, but there’s 12-15 kids ahead of me…my stomach is pounding, I’m breathing heavily, my legs are like stone, and my graying coach is telling me to “pick it up, and there’s still three quarters of a mile to go…” To prepare for this- miles and miles must be put in, starting three months before the season begins.A team needs inspiration to pursue this path. Seniors Ella Lapham, Kara Curley, and Caleigh Hopkins coordinated a consistent summer program galvanizing fellow seniors Jane Bagatta, Mackenzie Casey, Brooke Hoffman, Klaudia Kurek, Olivia Spirakis, and Jill Tocco. While there may have been greater spots of talent before, Kellenberg has not seen an equal to this team’s work ethic. Their approach resulted in a Team victory at the “CHSAA Early season opener,” the “Bobcat Invitational” in Armonk, NY, a runnerup finish at the Nassau Coaches Invitational, and a berth in the NY State Federation Meet this past week. Most importantly it brought together a team with memories that will last a lifetime.
Ella Lapham
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
The journey to the November championships season starts in June. A summer of logging miles is as imperative to a cross country runner as summer weight training is to a football player. In her dignified, quiet manner, Ella Lapham galvanized her willing teammates to join her at varying locations around and out of the county- Port Washington’s Shoreline trail, Bethpage State Park, Hempstead Lake Park, Kings Point Preserve, Long Beach Boardwalk, and elsewhere, making it interesting, and gaining fitness. Ella was COMMITMENT personified. Ella was the recipient of the prestigious “Fifth Man Golden Anchor Award” at the Nassau Coaches Invitational; a “NSCHSGAA -Scholar-Athlete Nominee,” a scoring member of the Varsity top five in every race she competed, and a beloved Captain by her teammates..
Jill Tocco
Most Improved Player
Senior tri-captain Jill Tocco has come a long way. Jill, a versatile, competitive athlete decided that this season she was going to hone in an exciting and dedicated high school finale. Jill understood the important running adage “the will to win is nothing without the will to prepare.” Jill prepared better than ever. Her sense of commitment was exemplified over the Columbus Weekend Holiday when she drove form her home in Long Beach to Babylon to meet her equally committed Varsity teammates for a long trail run. Jill is commonly referred to as the team’s “gamer” in the old school meaning- one who comes big in the big competition. Jill Tocco came up big, in this, her final cross country season, and we are honored to award her this season’s Most Improved Performer Award.
Kelsey Nichols
Most Valuable Player
Junior Kelsey Nichols was the team’s top performer in all but one competition this season. She embraced a long-term training approach, essential to success in cross country, and finally bought into doing Sunday long runs, the currency of an improved and stronger cardiovascular engine. Her dedication resulted in her making the top 15 all-time KMHS “Lady Firebird list” at Sunken Meadow with her 16:31.6 on the 2,5 course, also garnering her an “ALL-League” designation. Her 21:50 time at the Bobcat Invitational placed her fourth in that race and put her on the top ten of Lady Firebird performers on that course. The coaching staff is excited for this year’s MVP, junior Kelsey Nichols, to usher the Kellenberg girls back into the distance glory days of the pre-pandemic success of the Lady Firebirds.
All League Players
Caleigh Hopkins, Michaela Dennean, Ella Lapham, Jill Tocco, Kelsey Nichols
Girls Varsity Soccer
The Girls Varsity soccer team entered this season with eleven returning seniors and a group of talented underclassmen. Through practices, our service activity, and team retreat, the team came together quickly and got off to an incredible start.
The games started early this year and the girls came out ready to compete. The Firebirds went undefeated in the month of September with nine wins and three ties, including huge victories over some of the toughest competition in Nassau County: Oceanside, Manhasset, and Garden City. The team continued their hard work throughout the remainder of the season. This group of girls had two losses the entire season and unfortunately one of them ended a promising playoff run. Every one of these young women should be proud of what they accomplished this season. The coaching staff is extremely proud to have coached such an amazing group and we are already looking forward to next season.
Carolina Benitez
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
This year’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award recipient is a young woman who is the definition of hard work and commitment. For the past three seasons, Carolina Benitez has continually worked to make herself and her team better. She has been a leader for our team on and off the field, and she sets an excellent example for the younger girls on the team. Carolina constantly gives 100% in everything that she does. She has been an absolute pleasure to coach and we wish her the best of luck as she continues to play soccer at UMass Amherst next year. This year’s award goes to Carolina Benitez.
Sydney Farrand
Most Improved Player
This year’s Most Improved Player is a young woman who is brand new to the soccer program and has grown tremendously this season. Sydney started off this season as a quiet freshman with great technical foot work and good vision of the field. Over the season, you could see Sydney’s confidence grow on and off the field. She has become a key piece to our lineup and a threat to any team we face. The coaching staff is looking forward to seeing Sydney continue to grow as a player over the next couple of years. This year’s Most Improved Player is Sydney Farrand.
Lindsay McShea
Most Valuable Player
This year’s Most Valuable Player goes to a young woman who has been on this team for the past three seasons. Since last season ended, this young woman took it upon herself to make sure our team was focused on our goal for the fall. Lindsay overcame many obstacles during her three years on varsity, and her final season was her best one yet. She came in focused and ready to lead this team. Lindsay made an impact in every game she played in, whether it was tough defense, assisting a teammate, or scoring a goal. The coaches wish her the best of luck as she continues to play soccer at Sacred Heart University next year. This year’s award goes to Lindsay McShea.
All League Players
Lindsay McShea, Carolina Benitez, Sofia De Vito, Kate Cooney, Emma Chungata
Additional Honors
League Sportsmanship Award
Boys Cross Country
The Boys’ Varsity Cross Country Team started their preseason training during the hot summer months preparing for the Fall Cross Country Season. The team started the season with solid performances at The Regis Invitational, The Six Flags Great Adventure Meet, and The Nassau Coaches Invitational.
Through a combination of hard work and determination, the team set out to improve as much as possible, and improve they did. At every meet this year, the team improved significantly as individuals, which led to better overall team performances.
The team had its best races during the championship part of the season. At the NSCHSAA Championship Meet, the team ran their best overall team average time. At the Catholic State Championship, the team narrowly missed winning the “B” Championship race while finishing in 2nd place overall.
To the Seniors on this year’s team, Owen Boison, Sebastian Galofaro, Noah Jackson, and Connor Ronan, thank you for all your years of dedication to the team. Your hard work and leadership will be missed next year.
Connor Ronan
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Connor Ronan has been a dedicated member of the team since he was a student in the Latin School. He can always be counted on whether he is asked to step up on the Varsity team or for leadership amongst the younger athletes. Connor’s long-lasting dedication to the team will be missed, as he will be graduating this year. This year’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award goes to Connor Ronan.
Sebastian Galofaro
Most Improved Player
Sebastian Galofaro is one of the top sprinters on our team. He was expected to be a member of our JV cross-country team this year. Sebastian came into the season in great shape after working hard to get in cross-country shape over the summer. Sebastian is one of our top varsity runners who was in the conversation to be the team MVP. Sebastian improved so much this year that he was the unanimous choice to be the team’s Most Improved Runner. This year’s Most Improved Runner goes to Sebastian Galofaro.
Andrew Miglino
Most Valuable Player
Andrew Miglino was our top runner in the majority of our meets this season. He led the team at the Regis Invitational, Six Flags Invitational, and Nassau Coaches Meet. Andrew saved his best performance for the Catholic State Championship, where he ran his best time and finished in 5th place overall in the his race. This year’s Most Valuable Runner goes to Andrew Miglino.
All League Players
Sean Cannon, Devin Page, Dylan Page, Colin Mitacek, Claude-Albert Makelele, Matthew Watterson, Brenden Jones
Girls Tennis AA
Our tennis program continues to grow stronger as we competed in the highest division of the NSCHSAA league this year. We played 7 courts, 3 singles and 4 doubles courts, in which the girls went head to head with the best the league had to offer. Our top 3 singles players, Anjali, Ava and Delia led the team collectively with the best overall records which included Delia’s individual record of 7-2 earning her all league honors. Match after match our doubles partners grew stronger and confident on the courts, helping the team earn their semi finals spot against St. Frances Prep. Although the match did not go our way, It was a hard fought battle. The girls maintained a positive attitude and displayed true Firebird sportsmanship to the end. After the match, several parents and players offered kind words about our talent and positive energy. We have a great group of athletes who were committed to the team and each other. In turn the coaches awarded our Varsity AA Team the 2022 Sportsmanship Award for the Division.
In addition to season play, we had 9 athletes represent Kellenberg at the NSCHSAA Individual tournament. Freshman Sydney Rochefort made her singles debut, and had the match of the day, upsetting the St. Anthony’s second seed with a amazing win, clearing her way to the semi final match. Singles players turned doubles partners, Ava & Delia earned their semi-final spot as well along with excellent play by Victoria Atkinson, Anjali Edmonds, Kaitlyn Larmann, Elizabeth O’Hara, Arianna Lopez and Ashley Glynn, once again demonstrating the strength of our team. The girls also spent time together to bond spiritually at our retreat house Stella Maris. A fun filled Saturday involving team games, tons of food and reflection. As we sat around the firepit, senior leaders shared their experiences at Kellenberg and led the team in prayer, offering advice and encouragement to our underclassmen. Our teams also dedicated their time to raise awareness for Autism Speaks. The girls raised over $2,000 that will be used to support research and medical discovery and to help local services through their mission. The success of the season was a testament to the hard work and focus of all the young ladies. We wish our senior Co-Captains Ava Finnegan and Genevieve Petrara, Seniors Julia Salazar, MaryBeth Zimos, Ashley Glynn, Grace McCann, Patti Fennelly and Kasey Garzone a future filled of faith, love and continued success on and off the courts!
Ashley Glynn
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Ashley Glynn is our choice for the Bernie Ward Commitment Award for the 2022 season. Ashley has been a member of Kellenberg Varsity Tennis since her Freshman year. A dedicated member of the team, Ashley worked on her skills during the off season, was an active member of the KMHS Tennis Club and a mentor to new members of the team. Off the courts Ashley led by example academically and spiritually. She is a member of the KMHS National Honor Society and maintains a high academic average placing her as one of the top 10 students of the Class of 2023. Besides these accomplishments Ashley is dedicated to her faith as an Eucharist Minister. A valued member of our team, she will be greatly missed. Congratulations Ashley and we wish you continued success in all you do!
Patricia Fennelly
Most Improved Player
Senior Patti Fennelly showed up at tryouts with a positive energy that was contagious to all around her. Her continued enthusiasm and joyful personality made Patti a welcomed addition to the team. Although she did not start in the regular lineup Patti cheered on her teammates and worked on improving her skills through out the season. Watching her strive to be better at each practice and match earned her the Most Improved Player of the season. Congratulations Patti and we wish you a successful future on and off the courts!
Delia Cashin
Most Valuable Player
The success of our team was a true effort by all the athletes, but one player did stand out. Delia has always maintained a quite confidence on the courts and this year she lead the team with the best overall record of 7-3 earning her all-league honors. A starting player since her Freshman year Delia has transitioned from doubles to singles play, dominating her opponents on the court. Her commitment to improving is evident as she plays year-round and continues to take lessons. Delia continues to support Kellenberg tennis, as the KMHS boys tennis manager, a KMHS tennis camp counselor, and active member of the KMHS tennis club. Outside of school, Delia mentors young athletes at various tennis clubs. Besides her many tennis accomplishments, Delia excels academically, she is a member of the National Honor Society and has maintained honors status since her first year in our Latin School. We are extremely blessed and excited to have Delia for another season. A phenomenal scholar-athlete who never disappoints. Congratulations, Delia on a fabulous season!
All League Players
Delia Cashin
Boys Varsity Crew
The fall 2022 season saw a lot of first for the crew team in bringing the team to our first regatta, which was an enormous first step for our program, as well as the acquiring of new boats and equipment to really set the team up for future success. On an individual basis, we saw huge growth from all of our athletes, with massive PR’s on the erg showing quantifiable growth across the board.
The girls team is a very young and shows incredible potential. The improvements made by this group of girls will have impacts on the program for many years. With an average 2k PR from start to end of season of 28 seconds, these girls are laying the foundation for years of success down the road. The girls ended the fall with the first medals in program history, bringing home Bronze in the Women’s HS 4, and Women’s 8 at the Snowflake Regatta.
The boys team is just starting to see the fruits of years of hard work and dedication come to fruition. With an older squad, these men have been grinding for years, some since the team’s inception in 2019. This group of guy are in the process of setting high standards for years to come. The boys ended their fall season with the first medals in program history, with a Bronze medal in the Men’s HS 4 at the Snowflake Regatta.
All squads are looking forward to a grueling winter season, to get us prepared for our primary focus, the spring season to come. I speak for the entire coaching staff when I say we are ecstatic to see this team continue to grow, and to put the Firebirds on the map in the scholastic rowing scene.
Joseph Wyrozemski
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
The Bernie Ward Commitment award for the Boy’s Crew team goes easily to the one athlete who puts in the extra time to ensure that each practice runs as efficiently as possible. Among a large roster of very committed athletes, Joe has stood out to the coaching staff both in and outside of practice putting in efforts to stand up as an important senior leader for the team. It is for these efforts and many more that we have decided to award the Bernie Ward Commitment award to Joe Wyrozemski.
Dante Karaiskos
Most Improved Player
Most improved both technically and through erg testing for the fall of 2022 is Dante Karaiskos. With a season long growth on the erg of 22 seconds over 2000m, Dante has showed the team that hard work pays off. On the water, Dante has been coachable the entire season, even landing in the stroke seat of one of our varsity 4s. It’s for these reasons that Dante is our Most Improved rower of the fall 2022 season.
William Richardt
Most Valuable Player
This season’s most valuable player for the boys crew team is Billy Richardt. Billy is a natural leader on the team, a characteristic that landed him in the stroke seat of the boys varsity 8. On the erg, Billy leads by example in posting PR’s on every single testing piece that was done this season. Billy’s leadership abilities and role in steering team culture is the reason why he is the MVP for the fall of 2022.
Varsity Dance Team
The 2022 Kellenberg Varsity Dance Team exemplified hard work, dedication, and commitment to ensure a successful fall season. We began our season the day after the team was chosen with our NDA Dance Camp, where the team worked tirelessly to learn an extensive amount of choreography and new skills. At the conclusion of the two day camp, they had to perform one of these pieces of choreography and in doing so, earned themselves a bid to the 2023 NDA Nationals in Orlando, Florida this coming March. In addition to their demanding practice schedule, the team performed at the Varsity Football home games. The girls worked hard to learn all different kinds of dances to perform, and the seniors even choreographed and taught a dance in which the team performed on Senior Day. In addition to game dances, the girls have had numerous choreography workshops where they learned three very difficult and intense competition dances. They have continued to work on those dances and perfect their skills in preparation for competition season. As a team, they also participated in many team bonding activities including team hibachi and hot yoga. We are very proud to have coached a group of girls who always motivated each other during practices and games. All of the coaches would like to personally thank every member of the Varsity Dance Team for their hard work and dedication this past season.
Julia Baratta
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
This year’s Most Committed award goes to a senior that has endlessly shown how dedicated she is to this team and how much of a leader she is. As involved as she is in school activities and academics, she shows just as much commitment and hard work on the Varsity Dance Team. She is always willing to go above and beyond to help her teammates and coaches in any capacity. She continues to work tirelessly improving her skills and is a beautiful dancer and addition to the team. Her work ethic is unmatched and her positive attitude in practice and life is something to be admired. This year’s Most Committed Award goes to Senior, Julia Baratta.
Emma Pensato
Most Improved Player
This year’s Most Improved Player Award goes to a dancer who symbolizes hard work and dedication. She has continually put time in to become a better dancer throughout the season.
She has been a consistent worker both in and out of the practice room. She brings her best to practice and shows that hard work pays off. Her skills have developed immensely, and she has turned into an even better dancer. She has gained the respect of her teammates and the coaching staff through her commitment to the sport. She is always looking to improve, and we have seen her become a developed and gifted dancer. With her hard work ethic and practice, she will continue to excel on the dance team. This year’s Most Improved Player Award goes to Junior, Emma Pensato.
Kate Egan
Most Valuable Player
This year’s Most Valuable Award goes to a senior that embodies the values and consistently promotes the success of the Kellenberg Dance Program. She has developed into a leading force on the Varsity Dance Team. Although not able to dance last year due to injury, she still came to practice every day ready to cheer on her teammates. She is a clear example of what it means to be dedicated and never give up. When she healed from her injury, she not only knew all her dances but excelled at them. Just two weeks before Nationals, she was able to be included in one of the dances and shined on the Nationals stage. Now, being a senior on the team, not only is she a beautiful dancer, but she brings such a positive energy to the team and always is there to encourage anybody that needs it. She has achieved a great deal in this program, and we know she will continue to lead this team as we head into competition season. This year’s Most Valuable Player Award goes to Senior, Kate Egan.
Varsity Girls Crew
The fall 2022 season saw a lot of first for the crew team in bringing the team to our first regatta, which was an enormous first step for our program, as well as the acquiring of new boats and equipment to really set the team up for future success. On an individual basis, we saw huge growth from all of our athletes, with massive PR’s on the erg showing quantifiable growth across the board.
The girls team is a very young and shows incredible potential. The improvements made by this group of girls will have impacts on the program for many years. With an average 2k PR from start to end of season of 28 seconds, these girls are laying the foundation for years of success down the road. The girls ended the fall with the first medals in program history, bringing home Bronze in the Women’s HS 4, and Women’s 8 at the Snowflake Regatta.
The boys team is just starting to see the fruits of years of hard work and dedication come to fruition. With an older squad, these men have been grinding for years, some since the team’s inception in 2019. This group of guy are in the process of setting high standards for years to come. The boys ended their fall season with the first medals in program history, with a Bronze medal in the Men’s HS 4 at the Snowflake Regatta.
All squads are looking forward to a grueling winter season, to get us prepared for our primary focus, the spring season to come. I speak for the entire coaching staff when I say we are ecstatic to see this team continue to grow, and to put the Firebirds on the map in the scholastic rowing scene.
Mary Fitton
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
This season’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award is given to Mary for her obvious commitment to the team and creating a positive team culture. She is always willing to go above and beyond. This is evident not only in her workouts, as shown by consistent improvements in erg testing throughout the season, but also in the day to day operations of the team. Mary leads by example on how one should support their team and their teammates on a daily basis. It is for these reasons why we have selected Mary for the Bernie Ward Commitment Award.
Sophia Paulich
Most Improved Player
Sophia is our selection for the fall of 2022 because of her improvements made on and off the water. Technically she has been extremely coachable, making changes every day to improve boat speed and rhythm in any lineup she is placed into. On the ergs, Sophia has improved her 2k time by a staggering 37 seconds, which is pure evidence of her hard work in bettering herself and, in turn, the entire girls squad. Its for these reasons that Sophia is our most improved athlete.
Megan Mulroy
Most Valuable Player
Megan has stood out among her peers this season on the water and on the erg. Off the water, Megan is the strongest girl on the team on the ergs. Her dedication to bettering herself is infectious, and her teammates follow in suit. Megan is a natural leader, and for this reason and many more that she is the Most Valuable for the fall of 2022.
Varsity Cheerleading
From tryouts in August, to football games at Mitchel Field, to service walks at Jones Beach, to daily practices in St. Sebastian Hall, the fall is about turning a group of individuals into a cohesive cheerleading team that will spend the next six months together working towards a common goal. It was evident from the very beginning that these girls had talent. Coach Lastig and I were impressed with how quickly this group excelled at elite skills and how they embraced each other as teammates right away. The girls enjoyed leading the Bird’s Nest and cheering on the Firebirds at both home and away football games each week. They cheered alongside the entire Cheerleading program at the Homecoming game and put on a stellar half time performance with the Varsity Dance team. They participated in the Breast Cancer Walk at Jones Beach to raise awareness and money for this important cause. At our annual youth clinic, they instructed young girls on the basics of cheerleading, teaching future firebirds what it’s like to be a Kellenberg Cheerleader. The girls enjoyed an evening retreat at Stella Maris where they got to take a break from the daily practice grind to bond as teammates. At practice, this team is extremely motivated to get better each and every day. With our competitive season in mind, these girls have worked tirelessly to perfect their skills. Coach Lastig and I are confident that this team has the skill set and the right attitude to succeed on the biggest stage in cheerleading, High School Nationals! We are so excited to see your success during the Winter season and we commend you on the accomplishments you have achieved throughout the fall.
Taylor Kuhner
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
The Varsity most committed cheerleader award goes to a young lady who has worked effortlessly to improve herself in all aspects of cheerleading. Taylor has a great work ethic and a positive attitude at each and every practice. She is one of the strongest bases on the team and is always pushing herself and others to be better. She’s always ready to work with a smile on her face and we commend her for commitment to the betterment of herself and the team at practice each day.
Sofia Samaniego
Most Improved Player
The most improved Varsity cheerleader is a girl that has worked extremely hard in improving herself in all aspects of cheerleading. She has shown great improvement in her stunting ability and has become one of the strongest bases on the team. She works diligently to improve her jumps and her tumbling skills. She was always willing to take corrections and is a delight to coach. Her positive attitude and will power gave her the ability to improve greatly this season.
Giavonna DeBono
Most Valuable Player
This season’s MVP is a cheerleader who has been truly valuable to our program for the past four years. Her strength and positive attitude make her a leader and role model for every girl on our team. She is an all around cheerleader, with strong stunting skills, phenomenal tumbling, and beautiful jumps. The coaches turned to her to motivate and set an example for her teammates. Even with her elite skill set, she always pushed herself to be better and worked tirelessly at each practice. It has been a pleasure to watch this young lady master the sport of cheerleading!
Varsity Football
The Varsity Football Team had a successful season competing in the CHSFL AAA Division which is considered to be amongst the toughest leagues in the Northeast. Compiling a record of 6 wins and 3 losses the team qualified as the number five seed in the AAA playoffs, its highest finish in over twenty years. Highlights included a thrilling 21 to 18 triumph over New York Catholic State Finalists, St. Francis from Buffalo in front of an electric crowd during out “White Out” game as well as a 36 to 35 comeback over league power Cardinal Hayes and the schools first varsity victory over Monsignor Farrell of Staten Island. Beyond the games and practices the team had a great experience during our overnight retreat to begin the season which included an opportunity to meet and interact with over 50 alumni Firebird Football players and then spend a day bonding and celebrating mass at Stella Maris as a team. Most importantly the team carried themselves at all times with the utmost class and represented themselves and our entire school community proudly on and off the field.
Devin Page
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Devins’ commitment to success was not only for himself but for our entire football program. As the starting quarterback, Devin knew that he was the driver of our off-season program. If the other players knew he would be at a workout or a summer practice, then they would most likely be there as well. Devin did not miss one off-season event, and this led to one of our most successful off-seasons, which translated into great success for our program this season. Not only did Devin work with the Varsity players, but he also mentored the JV players and helped them get accustomed to and grow in our offense. This commitment continued throughout the season as Devin was always engaged and demanding the most from himself and his teammates.
Ethan Cumming
Most Improved Player
Ethan spent much of his junior season on the depth chart behind a returning senior starter, capitalizing on some opportunities that came his way. In August, the coaches still were not certain what the production would be out of our new running back. The questions were answered pretty quickly as Ethan proved himself more than capable of being the multi-dimensional back we needed. Over the season, he accounted for 643 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns. What did not show up in the stat sheet was when he would be a primary blocker in our two back offensive sets, which caused problems for the defenses in our league. We would look forward to watching Ethan continue to progress even more at the next level.
Sean Cannon
Most Valuable Player
Statistically, 58 receptions for 750 yards, 5 Touchdowns, 81 tackles, 6 interceptions, & 30 successful PAT’s/FG’s is beyond impressive. However, Sean’s value goes way beyond the numbers, to express how valuable Sean was to our team, we think it is best to do this exercise. If Sean had to be replaced, then it would most likely take five other players to replace him, Sean literally did everything for us. On offense, Sean led the team in receptions and receiving yards and even became an asset in our Tight End sets as another blocker. On defense, he led the team in both tackles and interceptions. On special teams, Sean was an exceptional kicker and punt returner. At the end of the day, a case could be made for Sean to be an All-State player on Offense, Defense, or Special Teams.
All League Players
Sean Cannon, Devin Page, Dylan Page, Colin Mitacek, Claude-Albert Makelele, Matthew Watterson, Brenden Jones
