Spring sports season has come to an end, and it’s time to honor the remarkable achievements of our high school athletes. From exhilarating matches to outstanding teamwork, this season has been nothing short of exceptional. Today, we celebrate the winners of three prestigious awards that recognize dedication, growth, and outstanding contributions. The Bernie Ward Commitment Award, named after our cherished former faculty member, coach, and colleague, goes to the athlete who wholeheartedly embraced self-improvement and demonstrated an unwavering commitment to their teammates. The Most Improved Player Award recognizes the athlete who showcased remarkable growth and development, elevating their skills to new heights and positively impacting the team’s success. Lastly, the Most Valuable Player Award honors the athlete whose exceptional contributions played a pivotal role in their team’s triumphant journey. Join us as we delve into the highlights of each team’s season and unveil the well-deserved recipients of these distinguished accolades.
Softball
The 2023 Varsity Softball Season began with high hopes of building on the excitement from having competed in the championship game last year. The girls on this year’s squad have not skipped a beat. The team sponsored a retreat at Founders Hollow during the second week of the season and discovered more about their Faith, their teammates and themselves. The team began the season with a 5-0 record, highlighted by a thrilling extra innings, come from behind win against St. Francis Prep HS in the annual benefit game for LICADD. The team raised over $4600.00 that evening. The season included fantastic wins against NYS powerhouses, Shenendehowa and East Islip, along with two one run loses to top 20 NYS ranked teams, Ballston Spa and Xaverian. At the end of the regular season, the Firebirds finished with a 13 win and 6 loss record, and earned a first round bye in the playoffs as the number 2 seed behind number 1 St. Anthony. The team also successfully traveled upstate twice during the season to play in two elite double header competitions. Best of luck to the six graduating Seniors, and many thanks to Ava Anzalone, Grace DiPalma and Ava Golio who served as team captains for the 2023 season!
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Ava Golio
Senior, Ava Golio, served for a second year this season as one of the team captains. Whether she was pitching, playing the outfield or hitting as the extra player, Ava was always mindful of the “vibe” within the team. She made an effort to create a balance between accountability for each player, and compassion regarding things going on in their personal lives. She understood and readily adopted the ideas and objectives chosen by the coaching staff, and would share them with her teammates so everyone was speaking a common language when it came time for competition on the field. As a player Ava never concerned herself with statistics or role, but she wanted the ultimate success of the group. Her teammates definitely looked up to her as a selfless player who simply wanted the name, Kellenberg, to be in the winning column. Congratulations to Ava Golio!
Most Improved Player
Nicole Abbenda
Last season Nicole Abbenda struggled to find an identity and a role on the team. This season she made a stated and conscious effort to involve herself in the team dynamic and to try and play as many positions as possible in practice so she could find her niche. Her efforts paid dividends in a large way. Nicole improved vastly as an outfielder in every way possible, including learning how to maximize her speed in pursuit of a ball in the gap. Additionally, her offensive game improved as she worked on composure and confidence in the batter’s box. These efforts resulted in a .341 batting average, 12 stolen bases (second on the team) and a .400 on base percentage. Nicole became a constant in the lineup defensively and offensively; but perhaps more importantly, she became a vital member of the team culture. Congratulations to Nicole Abbenda!
Most Valuable Player
Grace DiPalma
Given the chemistry and bonding within the 2023 Varsity Softball team, an MVP is hard to identify because everyone embraced their talents and roles so well. This year’s MVP enabled the team to grow because she could play virtually any position, but pitcher, and this dynamism enabled her teammates to explore new positions. Her versatility also gave the team confidence that it could play in big tournaments and games, even if one player was injured or sick, because she could simply fill in more than competently. Grace DiPalma became an invaluable piece of the team puzzle, playing catcher, first base, shortstop, third base and all 3 outfield positions within games during the season. Despite moving around frequently, she batted .333, stole 14 bases (team leader), and had a .451 on base percentage. Her quiet leadership and dedication became a glue for the group which resulted in a consistent effort day in and day out. Congratulations to Grace DiPalma!
All League
Lauren Babich / Presley Borne / Ariana Corrente / Julia Maniscalco / Natalie McMichael
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Tennis
The 2023 tennis season brought experienced and novice players to the courts in greater numbers than ever before. We finished league play with a record of 3-6 and played our best matches against the top teams in the division. Each team matchup consists of 7 tennis matches. To win the overall meet the players must win 4 out of the 7 courts. Although we had 6 team losses our doubles teams had their best season, winning 16 matches overall. A new school record. During practice and in every match their passion for tennis and sportsmanship displayed was a true representation of what an athlete should be. Toward the end of our season, some of our boys competed in both the NSCHSAA Novice and Varsity individual tournaments. Senior and first singles player Connor Stephen earned a spot in the finals, falling short of the win by a score of 6-8. Newcomers to the team, partners Freshman Viktor Lorentz and Junior Zach Oliveira also earned a spot in the finals, and we expect even greater results from them next season. But besides having a schedule full of matches and practices, the boys took the time to mentor our underclassmen and Latin school students who attend the Kellenberg Tennis Club throughout the year. Their enthusiasm and leadership have no doubt encouraged future players.
Thank you to all our parents and supporters who cheered the boys on. Your encouragement contributed to our successful 2023 season! Lastly, we will miss our senior Captains Connor Stephen, Corey Faustin and Danny Madden. There is no doubt they will continue to lead by example and have many successes on and off the courts!
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Corey Faustin
Corey’s athletic talent as a tennis player is undeniable, but his commitment to the team and the sport has earned him the Bernie Ward Commitment Award. Corey joined the team in his freshman year and has been a starting player ever since. Throughout the years he has mentored members of our tennis club and has been a manager for our varsity girls’ tennis teams. This past season Corey led by example as team captain playing both singles and first doubles, offering advice and instruction to our newer players. We will miss Corey and wish him many successes at Mount St Mary and beyond.
Most Improved Player
Zachary Oliveira
When Junior Zach Oliveira came to tryouts, we knew there was something special about him. He is a competitive athlete who never played organized tennis, but made it clear he was determined to be the best on the team. Always asking for coaching tips, watching YouTube tutorials, and playing whoever would say yes to a pickup game. Zach earned a starting position on the second doubles court, finishing the season with the best overall record. To watch Zach “attack” the ball at the net was an inspiration to his teammates. This year in his first tournament Zach and his partner made it to the finals, an unheard accomplishment for an athlete new to the sport. A well-deserved honor and we cannot wait to see what the 2024 season will bring!
Most Valuable Player
Connor Stephen
The most valuable player can be defined as the one athlete who has physically contributed to the team’s success, and Connor has encompassed all that a Kellenberg Memorial High School should be. Connor joined the team in his sophomore year playing second singles, and over the past 2 years he earned the number one position on the team. His determination and innate ability to adjust to all types of players gave him a competitive edge. Ever the sportsman, Connor always gave respect and praise for his opponents, as well as a gracious handshake and thank you to their coaches. Off the court, Connor has maintained a 95 academic average, been a member of the speech and debate club, drama club, tennis club and participated as a member of the green team during Blue & Gold.
Very few are gifted with so many talents and Connor Stephen has been blessed. A humble star athlete who will continue to shine throughout his years at Dartmouth College. We will miss him greatly but look forward to his successes on and off the court.
All League & Other Awards
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Volleyball
Boston Celtic legend Bob Cousy once stated that, “Playing a sport creates a bond between colleagues that lasts a lifetime. It also gives your life structure, discipline and a genuine, sincere, pure fulfillment that few other areas of work provide.”
When looking back on the 2023 Boys volleyball season one should focus on the bond that these athletes created over the course of just a few months and realize how important that is. Having come off a championship appearance two years ago, the boys’ volleyball program was considered a contender when it came to the NSCHSAA league title. When tryouts began in March the team was eager to get back to playing and to continue to uphold the prestigious reputation set forth by past players. The new mix of players, ranging from freshman to seniors was something that the coaching staff was quite enthused about. Our early season drills and practices helped the boys get back into mid- season form arguably faster than ever before. The team opened up with an impressive showing at the St. Francis Invitational volleyball tournament. The team split games with city powerhouses St. Francis, Walton Campus and league rival Chamniade. This prepped the boys for the fast, hard hitting league schedule. The boys continued to work on and off the court partaking in a service program where the team traveled to St. Martin de Porres to assist in their after school program. This cohesiveness helped the team to continue to build their trust for one another and create momentum as the regular season came to an end. For their hard work the team finished with a seven win and three loss record and in those matches they went twenty four and nine! Perhaps the best example of the team’s trust in one another was at St. John the Baptist where they avenged an earlier season five set loss and swept them convincingly. The team ultimately fell short of their end goal of a championship with a heartbreaking loss to St. John the Baptist in the semi- finals which included a thirty four to thirty two loss in game one which included eight set points.
The team would like to thank all of the parents, managers, and loyal fans for their spirited dedication during the season. With the majority of the team returning next year the future looks very bright for years to come.
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Colin Cosgrove
Colin Cosgrove aka “Cosmo” has been with the Volleyball program for two years. Ever since he entered the program he was always eager to be a part of something bigger than himself. Last year we eased him into his front row position and each game he learned from older players what it took to contribute on the varsity level. However, this year Colin worked hard in the off season, and wanted a larger responsibility, so we gave it to him. His commitment to this club and his heart to put others before him makes him the ultimate teammate. This year at first when he entered matches (initially off the bench) it was to bring a sense of calmness to the team during tight games. As the season progressed he earned a starting position and became a “go to” outside hitter and middle helping us win a big game at St. John the Baptist that solidified the team as a number 2 seed. What was really special was that no matter the situation, you could watch his mannerisms and know that everything was going to be just fine. It is our pleasure to give this year’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award to Senior Colin Cosgrove.
Most Improved Player
Chris Puglisi
Chris Puglisi has been with the Volleyball program for three years. When Chris first entered the program he was learning the game and guided by his older brother Nicholas (Class of 2022). Last year we began to work on his footwork, his hands, and his overall decision making. This year Chris came into the season with an eagerness to run the offense with confidence from the setter position and be a leader on the floor. Each day he constantly worked on improving his techniques, running plays and evolved into one of our captains. It has been a pleasure to watch the enjoyment Chris has each time his teammate gets a kill, a block or if he catches our opponent off guard with one of his dumps or kills himself. The program is so excited to have you for another year and we are all looking forward to you improving on your already record breaking career as you continue to go down as one of the all time great setters in school history. This year’s Most Improved Award goes to Junior All- League Captain Chris Puglisi.
Most Valuable Player
Charles Kelleher
This year’s most valuable award goes to a boy who used to play volleyball growing up but due to his passion for baseball didn’t try out for Volleyball until this past year. After consistent nagging by a certain coach to play (mainly during a Model U.N. trip to Washington, D.C.), he decided to make a comeback. From the first day of tryouts the coaching staff not only knew we had a special player but an extension of the coaching staff on the floor. In the beginning he was a bit rusty, but after we worked on his hands, footwork, and touch he looked like he never missed a beat. At times he was our setter, outside hitter, middle hitter and defensive specialist. He was our leader, and our captain. Some of his season highs included a 18 kill game against St. John the Baptist and a 16 kill game against Chaminade. In his one year of playing for the program his voice, attitude and passion has inspired so many other teammates to come back next season and finish the job. The team is grateful for his services and he will truly be missed next year. The 2023 Boys Varsity Volleyball Most Valuable Player is Senior, All-League, and Captain Charles “Topper” Kelleher.
All League & Other Awards
Chris Puglisi, Ethan Murray, Charles Kelleher
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Girls Golf
The first day of golf tryouts on Saturday, March 4, 2023, began with great weather and plenty of eager players trying to earn a spot on a team that missed last year’s playoffs by one point and wanting a chance to redeem themselves. While the great weather in March was somewhat of a shocking occurrence for golf tryouts on Long Island, the talent the girls showed on the course and the range was not. With Newsday highlighting one of last year’s players as golfers to watch during the season, the expectations for this team grew as the season began. With a tough 3-2 first match loss to St. Anthony’s in which each match went the maximum nine holes, the team was undeterred from its championship goals. As the team racked up win after win over opponents such as St. John the Baptist, Holy Trinity, Our Lady of Mercy, and Sacred Heart, a rematch against St. Anthony’s was on the horizon. This time, the team defeated its rival by the score of 4 to 1, and if the season continued as is, both Kellenberg and St. Anthony’s would finish as co-champions of the regular season with each team having 9 wins and 1 loss. However, Kellenberg would be the #1 seed in the playoffs because of our total points in head-to-head matches. As predicted, Kellenberg finished as the #1 seed and defeated Our Lady of Mercy in the semifinal playoffs by the score of 3 ½ to 1 ½. The finals were another epic matchup between Kellenberg and St. Anthony’s. The fifth match was a win for Kellenberg after 7 holes as the first and second matches headed to the ninth hole. With our #1 golfer shooting even par and losing by a stroke, the second match would be very important. Our #2 golfer shot three over par to win her match by one shot. The third match was won by St. Anthony’s so with the score tied at two apiece, the fourth match would determine a victor or whether the girls would play extra golf for the championship. With a bogey on the ninth hole, the team defeated defending champions St. Anthony’s by the score of 3 to 2 and earned another Girls’ Golf
Championship for Kellenberg Memorial. The girls capped a championship with an 11-match winning streak. This season was a one I hope the players will never forget.
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Daniella Espina
Daniella Espina exemplifies the meaning of this commitment award. She is methodical in her pre-shot routine and once she commits to her line and swing, there is no stopping her. Daniella could be behind by two or three holes in a match, but she never quit on a match and either came back to tie a match and earn the team a 1/2 point or won the match. She had a record of 8 wins, 0 losses, and 4 ties. Daniella earned the team so many critical points during the season, none more critical than her bogey putt on the ninth hole of the championship to win the team championship for Kellenberg. I know her dad will appreciate Daniella winning this award since he is a Maria Regina alumnus and has great memories of Mr. Bernie Ward. Congratulations to the 2023 Bernie Ward Commitment Award winner: Daniella Espina!
Most Improved Player
Bridget LaRosa
Bridget LaRosa’s skills keep getting better and better every time she comes to the golf course. She has gone from a nervous freshman at tryouts to one of the confident anchors for the other girls on the team. She enjoys playing the game of golf and isn’t too concerned about her score. When she finished a match one day, she came over to me and exclaimed in disbelief, “I think I just shot 1 under par for 9 holes!” After adding up her score, she was right and I told her, “I guess you were having too much fun out there to worry about the score.” She keeps the game of golf simple and has grown into one of the leaders for our team. Congratulations to the 2023 Most Improved Player Bridget LaRosa!
Most Valuable Player
Cat Slade
Cat Slade was a member of the 2021 Girls’ Golf championship team. However, this year, instead of being a member in 2021, she was leading the team to victory. She was a person on this team who had insights into the other players and the team and was not afraid to share them with her coach. Cat loves being around the other girls on the team and always lets the other girls know that their contributions to the team are valued. As the second Girls’ State CHSAA champion in school history and the Girls’ CHSAA State team’s high scorer at the 2022 NYSPHSAA Girls’ Golf Tournament, Cat Slade has put the league and Long Island on notice: She is a great golfer and she is determined to be the best in the Catholic League.
Cat Slade’s future is so bright she’s got to wear shades! Congratulations to the 2023 Most Valuable Player Cat Slade!
All League & Other Awards
Cat Slade and Bridget LaRosa
Cat Slade-2023 NSCHSGAA League Tournament champion-she received the award and the tournament. She was also named the League’s co-player of the year, and she received that award at the championship match.
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Boys Lacrosse
Coming into this past lacrosse season, there were many unknowns about our season that needed to be brought to light. After graduating key players on offense and defense last year, and losing league opponents St. John the Baptist and St. Dom’s to the Single A division, we truly did not know what to expect from this group of players and how they would respond to the changes.
However, once we stepped foot on the field for off-season workouts, we knew that there was something unique about this team. The seniors understood their role as leaders and played it well, while the juniors and sophomores fed off of, and tried to match the intensity of those seniors, which led to a fun two weeks of practice to start the season before our games started. In the first month of the season, the team fell into an 0-2 hole with close losses to Florida State Finalist St. Thomas Aquinas, and Wantagh. Then after a few wins against Fairfield-Ludlowe, Holy Trinity and St. John the Baptist, we suffered a few more close losses to nationally ranked Pleasantville, Half Hollow Hills and nationally-ranked Stepinac. All 5 of these losses were by 3 or fewer goals. Any team in the country would have the capability of losing faith in the team’s mission at that point in time, but as I said before, there is something unique about this group of men. The coaching staff continued to drive home the message that “we’re building for May”, and the team responded by displaying great mental toughness in a back-and-forth battle with league rival Fordham Prep in an 11-10 win before traveling to St. Joseph Regional in New Jersey and playing one of the most complete games the coaches have seen all season in a 9-3 win to close out the regular season. White the Westchester teams played their playoffs to decide their intersectional representative, the Firebirds looked inward and honed their skills with a week of practice (and of course, daily team-speed sessions), and now – as of writing this – the team is set to play the AA Intersectional Championship against Iona Prep on Monday May 22nd. The coaching staff is extremely proud of the perseverance this group displayed day-in and day-out, and we would like to thank our 20 graduating seniors for helping to build a new culture in the lacrosse program for the years to come.
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Owen Fitzgerald
When you think of Kellenberg, and the word “commitment” one can only think of the Fitzgerald family. Owen is the youngest of 4 Fitzgerald’s that played in the lacrosse program, and the most commitment-worthy aspect of his career is his travel. Having to commute from Calverton every day, it would be excusable for a player to miss some off-season workouts or a few 6:30 am stickwork sessions on winter Friday mornings. But that is not who Owen Fitzgerald is. Owen attended every single stickwork session before school, and every Sunday morning scrimmage at Carey High School. Owen’s commitment has been an inspiration to others who may have to think, “If Fitz can make it here, what’s my excuse?” Congratulations, Owen on a great career. Your presence on the field will truly be missed!
Most Improved Player
Jack Ligarzewski
As a self-admitted “football player playing lacrosse” Jack Ligarzewski’s skill set skyrocketed this pat year. Jack did not play lacrosse his freshman and sophomore year, and only saw playing time in 3 games last season as a junior. Jack committed himself to the weight room, and used his football talents to his advantage as a starting Short Stick Defensive Midfielder for us this year. Jack has turned into someone we can turn to when we need to get the ball back either on defense or on the faceoff wing, and he is also a threat in transition for opposing teams. Congratulations Jack!
Most Valuable Player
Charlie Villa
This past season, we had a lot of unknowns regarding personnel at certain positions, but Goalie was not one of them. As a returning All-League player as a junior, Charlie came into the season with high-expectations and most certainly has lived up to them. Charlie averaged 9 saves per game, and has been a consistent relief for the team in tight, end-game situations. Congratulations Charlie and best of luck at the next level!
All League & Other Awards
Charlie Villa, Owen Fitzgerald, Michael Anzelone, Nick Johnson, Michael Felicetti
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Boys Crew
The boys and girls crew team here at Kellenberg truly exploded onto the scholastic rowing scene this spring. With a spring racing schedule that was packed against some of the fastest teams in the country, the Firebird Navy held strong and threw down some incredible times. Our season concluded with the Long Island Scholastic Championship, winning silver medals in the Womens Varsity 4, Womens Novice 8 and Mens Novice 8, followed by the New York State Scholastic Rowing Association Championship, where we sent more than half of our boats to finals, and even securing a third place finish with the Novice Boys 8.
In addition to fast racing, the coaching staff is immensely proud of the way the team represented the school while traveling across the Northeast in New Jersey, Philadelphia and in Saratoga. It has become a regular happening that the coaching staff is approached by racing organizers and competitor’s coaches to compliment our athletes on their respectful demeanor and sportsmanship. This fact makes us all proud of the way these young men and women represented Kellenberg, and showed the world the COR values that we hold so dear.
As competitors and representatives of Kellenberg, we are so proud of the work on and off the water that this team has done this season, and we are excited as this program continues to grow into a premier rowing program on Long Island and in the State of New York.
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Miles Francisque
Miles is the quintessential mold of what it means to be a Firebird and to be a rower here at Kellenberg. Demonstrated by his actions both on and off the water, Miles has represented all that Kellenberg stands for time and time again. His commitment to his teammates and respect for his competitors makes us as a coaching staff proud that he is going off to Howard next year as a shining example of the best that Kellenberg has to offer.
Most Improved Player
Kevin Hart
At the start of the season we approached Kevin with the possibility of taking on a challenge that was daunting, to move into the JV4 as a freshman. Kevin shouldered that challenge and excelled in that role, even moving up to the stroke seat of that boat. In an incredibly competitive event, Kevin’s work ethic along with the other members of his boat in one of the most difficult events at the NYS championship. Racing with and against athletes that had considerably more experience than him, Kevin rose to the challenge and played a critical role in that boat’s success this season. We are all excited to see how this young crew grows together in future seasons.
Most Valuable Player
Brian Pecnik
On the erg, Brian is the strongest member of the boys team, and sets the standard of excellence for 2k. Through his goofy personality, Brian affect on his teammates was visible, bringing freshmen and novice rowers up and supporting them to be the best rowers they could be. Moving on to Fairfield University in the fall, we are so proud to see Brian represent Kellenberg at the D1 level, and we are grateful to him for paving the way for future athletes to come from our program.
All League & Other Awards
Long Island Scholastic Championship – 2nd place – Boys Novice 8. New York State Scholastic Rowing Association Championship – 3rd place – Boys Novice 8
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Girls Crew
**see summary from boys crew**
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Carly Fitzgerald
Carly gets the Bernie Ward award because of her commitment to the team and bettering herself. Carly came to practice every day ready to make fast boats and willing and open to make changes for the betterment of her boat. This commitment culminated in an impressive silver medal from the Long Island Scholastic Championship, in a competitive field of crews from both clubs and schools on Long Island. Carly’s devotion to her boat and team make her an easy choice for the Bernie Ward award.
Most Improved Player
Julia Murray
Julia accomplished something this season that very rarely happens in this sport. Julia transitioned from being a rower in the girls novice 8, to being the coxswain in the girls Varsity 8. In a seat in an event that is dominated by girls that have 4+ years experience in the role, after just one season you would have assumed that Julia had been doing this her whole life. She has developed into this role faster than anyone we have ever seen, and the girls in the boat responded in turn. Julia was thrown into the fire in a high pressure position, and not only did she succeed, she thrived. Because of this perseverance, we are ecstatic to see her continue to develop, and help lead the girls program to the top.
Most Valuable Player
Megan Mulroy
It is not often that we award MVP twice to the same person, but it is fitting in this case. Megan is the undisputed most valuable rower on the girls varsity team. She is a model of excellence both on the erg, having the fastest 2k on the girls varsity team, as well as on the water adding speed to any boat we threw her in. Her ability to respond to coaching, and elevate her teammates around her made her a valuable asset to this team across the board. We are forever grateful to her for her commitment to not only her teammates, but to the team as a whole.
All League & Other Awards
Long Island Scholastic Championship – 2nd place – Girls V4; 2nd place – Girls Novice 8
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Girls Lacrosse
The success of a team cannot only be measured by wins in a score column. This season, the girl’s varsity lacrosse team took on tough opponents in both league and non-league games with determination and class. As a young team with only 3 returning senior starters, the girls had to learn how to work together in order to remain competitive in games. Under the leadership of senior captains Giavonna DeBono, Kerri Gallagher, and Jillian Tocco, members of the team took on different roles that they might not be used to, such as playing defense or attack, in order to help the team out. There were many team highlights this season, that included three huge league victories against St. John the Baptist. Each time that the team faced the Cougars, the team performed better and better. The team’s growth both as players and individuals was fantastic to watch as the season progressed. In our games against Sacred Heart Academy and South Side, the girls Played for Mary! The Mary Ruchalski Foundation is close to their hearts, and these charity games raise awareness of pediatric cancer and shine light on Mary’s amazing memory and fighting spirit! The coaches are proud of the girls and the effort they showed throughout the duration of the season. We cannot wait to see what the future has in store for you! We will miss our 11 seniors who are heading off to college in the fall, but we are so proud of them and the legacy they have left on our program. We look forward to seeing all of their success in the future, and we cannot wait to see how the juniors and sophomores will lead the team next year!
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Giavonna DeBono
Devotion. Dedication. Loyalty. These are a few words that come to mind when thinking of who is most deserving of the 2023 Bernie Ward Commitment Award. This player has been part of the lacrosse program since the 7th grade. She has been an intricate member of each level team that she has been on. She was a captain while on JV A lacrosse. She was also a captain of the varsity lacrosse team this year! Her strength and talent are enormous both inside and outside of the classroom! She was a true role model. She also was one of the best defenders in the program. She was a leader in ground balls, caused turnovers and interceptions and was the backbone to our defense and our team. Her communication with her teammates was off the charts. Her “coach-ability” was hard to match. Giavonna DeBono will be continuing her lacrosse career at Division 1, Manhattan College in the fall. She was a tremendous athlete and an even better human being, and she will be missed dearly! Congratulations G, for being the 2023 recipient of the Bernie Ward Commitment Award!
Most Improved Player
Hannah Yack
“It’s not the will to win that matters — everyone has that. It’s the will to prepare to win that matters.” The unflinching determination seen in this season’s most improved player was incredible! This player showed up as a whole new woman during tryouts and the coaching staff let her know that it was recognizable and encouraged her to keep pushing herself. Day in and day out she crushed all running and fitness drills and was hard to beat in ground ball drills. This player went from the bottom of the depth charts in her junior year to our first defensive sub as a senior. Hannah Yack was called upon during our toughest league game of the season verses St. Anthony’s. A starting defender was injured, and it was time for Hannah to shine…and shine she did! She caused turnovers, outran her opponents, picked up critical ground balls, and held her own against a UNC commit from the opposing team. The entire team was cheering her on because we were all so very happy for her and her success! Hannah Yack never gave up. She pushed herself and her teammates to be better. Hannah possessed a tremendous amount of resilience. She demonstrated mental and physical toughness and was deserving of the time she earned on the field and for earning the 2023 Most-Improved Player Award. Congratulations Hannah!
Most Valuable Player
Kelsey Nichols
As Peyton Manning stated, “The most valuable player is the one who makes the most players valuable”. This year’s girls’ varsity lacrosse most valuable player always put her teammates before herself. If she had an option to score herself or assist a teammate, she would always choose the assist. Not only was she extremely talented, but she was one of the most selfless players I have ever coached! This talented midfielder shined in every area of the field. She was the team’s leading draw-controller, she was an outstanding defender, and she was critical to our attack adding both goals and assists in most games. The hustle and willpower of this young lady was hard to match. Some of her ground balls and caused turnovers would cause your jaw to drop! Kelsey Nichols would be any coach’s dream player. She wanted to learn, she wanted to perfect, and she wanted to support her team at all times. It was hard to give Kelsey a break during games. When Kelsey was not on the field, it was felt in all areas. She was the definition of an impact player, and the coaching staff feels so blessed to have another year with her next year! Congratulations Kelsey…aka Jeff!
All League & Other Awards
Kelsey Nichols, Delaney Clark, Isabelle Frisone, Isabella Blasi
Team: League Sportsmanship Award
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Girls Track
The 2023 Spring track team, although the smallest ever in number, was as big as any team in drive, desire, and determination. Led by eight seniors, the young ladies chose a sport not of comforts. As the greatest Nike commercial tells us, “greatness is a concept we made up…as if it’s a gift for the chosen elite…those with a rare strand of DNA or something. IT IS NOT. Greatness. It’s something we are all capable of. It’s something Shannon Pulis realized at Saturday’s league championships- running the grueling steeplechase in pouring rain 25 seconds faster than ten days prior, and defeating not only the winner of that previous race, but all the other competitors in the Varsity championship race, and pulling her teammate to her best race ever. It’s something our three triple jumpers, Martine Demeseyeux, Olivia Spirakis, and Annabelle Senatus embraced as they continue to dominate the Catholic league in that event; it’s something Kylie Mummendey realized when she picked an event abandoned by Kellenberg athletes for the past decade. The aforementioned athletes “got it” this season, but all these young ladies will “get” it eventually. Why? Because they have been part and parcel of a sport not defined by talent, but by pure honest, consistent work, faith, and persistence. They lived those virtues, and even if they didn’t reach the dance of their season this spring, they WILL in the dance of life. For our lives are about being the “greatest” each of us can be, and these young ladies led by seniors Lisa Anderson, Kara Curley, Chelsea Ezumah, Brooke Hoffman, Caleigh Hopkins, Klaudia Kurek, Ella Lapham, and Olivia Spirakis, are on their way to life’s “greatness.”
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Kylie Mummendey
The pole vault is an event that is a traditionally contested regular track and field event, held in all meets, in all championships, high school and college, in the United States of America and around the globe. It is an event that scores and carries the same contested weight as the 100 meters, the 400, the Shot put, the 1500 meters and so forth. However, it is not an event of “convenience.” Most schools do not have the facilities to stage a safe or adequate practice to hone the event. The event itself requires strength, flexibility, speed, and most importantly, boldness. So to perfect it, most pole vaulters have to travel, like this young lady, and on her own, commit to excellence. Kylie Mummendey’s commitment to excellence resulted in her tying an 11 year old school record, and finishing second and scoring for her Varsity team at its championship meet. We are honored tonight to bestow Kylie Mummendey this season’s “Bernie Ward Commitment Award.”
Most Improved Player
Shannon Pulis
Shannon, this season had set her own personal records in both the 800 and 1500 meters. A consistent competitor, her most striking improvement was one that shocked the Nassau Suffolk Catholic League, and buoyed the spirits of her teammates. At the 2023 rain soaked Varsity Championship Saturday, Shannon, running the steeplechase against a talented field and a young rival who had defeated her by 14 seconds ten days before at the underclassmen championships, Pulis grinded out, step by step with another rival, pulling away from the field, and winning the championships by running 25 seconds faster than ever. We are honored tonight to award Shannon Pulis this season’s MIP award.
Most Valuable Player
Olivia Spirakis
Following her banner championship winter season, Olivia won the triple jump at The Big Blue Classic and Easter Classic Meets, was runnerup at both long and triple jumps at the Dennis Walker Relays, the Race at the Oval Office, and the NSCHSGAA Championships. A placing at the Intersectional championships would vault her into the #1 position of all time three year, Varsity Kellenberg Girl’s FIELD scorers, and in the top ten list for the the all-time championship track and field meet scorers. All of the ladies above her on that distinguished lists were eventually collegiate conference champions. We anticipate that success for Olivia at Sacred Heart University, and tonight honor her with our MVP award.
All League & Other Awards
Sienna Pimental, Shannon Pulis, Michaela Dennean, Kylie Mummendey, Martine Demesyeux, Olivia Spirakis, Annabelle Senatus
Silver Jubilee (+) Coach -Martin J. Brown
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Boys Golf
The Boys Varsity Golf Season an incredible success. The boys finished in third place with 6 wins in the league. The season was highlighted by Ciaran Regan, Pat Celiberti, and John Seward taking out 3 of Chaminade’s top 4 golfers in our 3rd to last match of the season. A feat no other team in the league had accomplished all season. The team also saw 2 freshman crack the starting lineup in Eaton Cormican and Jude Martucci. Sophomores Brendan Spear, Owen Cunningham, and Declan Sheehan had breakout seasons winning several league matches. The team had a goal of improving every time we stepped on the golf course and that’s just what they did. By season’s end every single golfer in the lineup had improved statistically in every single stat kept. Next year we return 7 starters so the future looks incredibly bright for the Firebirds!
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Pat Celiberti
While Pat had tremendous success throughout the season it was his willingness to work with the younger players on the team that proved his commitment to the team. While at the range Pat would be our resident golf pro and provide lessons for his teammates. Pat’s unselfishness is the reason he is this season’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award winner.
Most Improved Player
Eamon Cormican
This year at tryouts Eamon Cormican stood out as a kid that might be able to help us out in our lineup. After a few weeks, he turned out to be our third man in our lineup. He played well, but it wasn’t until our second match against Chaminade when he shot a 41 that we got a glimpse of what a man could be. he continued his improvement and got to play in the third group at the league tournament. It was there were he shine the most. He scored an 80 he continued his improvement and got to play in the third group at the league tournament. It was there where he shine the most. He scored an 84 and qualified for the state tournament. This year’s most improved golfer is Eamon Cormican.
Most Valuable Player
Ciaran Regan
Ciaran is a special golfer. He shot under par several times this season and lead the team in birdies, scoring average, and putting average. He beat last years NSCHSAA League Champion head to head in a match with a dominant 2under performance. Ciaran is this years MVP
All League & Other Awards
Ciaran Regan, Pat Celiberti
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Boys Track
I would like to introduce the track and field team’s coaching staff. Coach Moncada has done an amazing job with our sprinters. Coach Capozzoli coaches everything from jumpers to sprinters to middle-distance runners. Coach Citrano, our throws coach. Coach Gornstein, our distance coach. Finally, I would like to thank Coach Green for all her hard work with our hurdlers and jumpers. We really would not have seen such success in those events without her help.
Tonight, we gather here to celebrate the achievements of our athletes. It is an honor to stand before you and address a group of individuals who have showcased true excellence, teamwork, and effort across the entire spectrum of track and field events. This truly is one of our most well-rounded teams in school history.
Our sprinters have been a dominant force this season. We have had multiple athletes achieve automatic state and national qualifying times. One of our season’s highlights was Kavon Morris running the fastest 100-meter FAT time in school history. With such a great group of sprinters, the team is poised to break the school’s 4×100-meter record during the championship part of the season.
Our field events athletes and hurdlers have shown dedication to their craft. They have put countless hours into becoming better at their events. This has made us a more well-rounded team this season.
Our distance and middle-distance runners, who display remarkable endurance and mental fortitude, have competed in some grueling events this season to maximize our team point totals, including a steeplechase event held in monsoon-like rain conditions during this past weekend’s league championship meet.
Our team performed well throughout the season. At early season invitational meets, the team shook off the rust after the gap between the end of the indoor season and the start of the outdoor season. They had a solid team performance at the Race at the Oval Office meet. One of the season’s highlights was having six athletes qualify for The Loucks Games. This meet is considered by many to be the best invitational meet in New York State and one of the best invitational meets in the country. This is the most athletes we have ever had qualify for this meet.
With the championship portion of the season upon us, we look forward to seeing how far this team can go this year. Thank you, you may now return to your seats.
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Ryan Mroz
Ryan Mroz narrowly missed winning the Triple Crown of Jumps in winning the Triple Jump, Long Jump, and High Jump in the Indoor NSCHSAA Championship Meet. Ryan set out to win all three events for the NSCHSAA Outdoor Championship. Although he fell short of his goal, he had many highlights during the season, including a 3rd place finish in the Triple Jump at the prestigious Loucks Games. For Ryan’s level of commitment to training for all his events, he is this season’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award winner.
Most Improved Player
Ethan Thomas
Ethan Thomas is a hard worker and a great all-round teammate. Ethan has improved so much as a runner that he is a force to be reckoned with in any event from 100 to the 400. He has been a critical member of our sprinting squad that we can rely on in any sprinting individual event or relay. This season’s Most Improved Runner goes to Ethan Thomas.
Most Valuable Player
Kavon Morris
Kavon Morris ran the fastest FAT 100-meter time in school history. He has hit an automatic qualifier time for the New York State Championship Meet. He is a key member of the 4×100 meter relay team and any other sprint relay team. He was the coaching staff’s unanimous choice to be the team’s Captain for the outdoor season. Kavon Morris is this year’s Spring Track and Field Team MVP.
All League & Other Awards
Kavon Morris, Malachi McCaskill, Evans Linzey, Daniel Carsey, Ryan Mroz, Zachary Varley, Mario Sanabria, Ethan Thomas, Nicholas Baldwin, Christian Calderon, Justin McKenzie
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Baseball
This past March, forty-five Junior and Senior baseball candidates tried out for a Varsity baseball team that was coming off of a very successful 2022 season, ending with a championship finals appearance for the second consecutive year. For the third year in a row, the Kellenberg Varsity Baseball team had a Top 3 preseason ranking in all of Nassau County according to Newsday, which comes with high expectations and the reality that teams will be preparing to play their best game against us. Preseason workouts started in the Fall and continued through the entire winter under the senior leadership of Andrew Koshy and Paul Napolitano, two players who understand the commitment needed to field a championship caliber team in one of the most competitive leagues in the state of New York. The team faced an early setback with unfortunate news regarding our best returning relief pitcher, senior Ryan Sharkey, needing season ending surgery on his throwing arm. Ryan fully committed himself to the team in all other areas, not just as a senior leader, but as an unofficial addition to the coaching staff. The team finished with a league best 9-3 overall record in the NSCHSAA thanks to contributions from many players in multiple areas. Seniors Andrew Koshy, Paul Napolitano, Owen McWalters, Michael Brocco, and James Coats all played an integral role in the offense this season with help from returning Junior Kenny Noe and newcomers Jimmy Ernst, Tommy Pasqua, Brian Cadieux, Michael D’Angelo, Will Cowan, and Jack Durso. Every baseball team’s success, however, ultimately lies within their pitching staff. This year’s pitching staff finished with a team ERA of 2.10, led by Wake Forest commit Andrew Koshy and a strong supporting cast of Matt Ingram, Matt Reiter, Connor Barry, Greg Malerba and Ryan Carroll. Congratulations to all of our Seniors on a tremendous four years of baseball at Kellenberg. Go Firebirds!
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Paul Napolitano
Senior Paul Napolitano is a true team player in every definition of the term. As a Division 1 shortstop committed to High Point University, Paul was open to playing anywhere the team needed him, whether it was in the outfield, at third base, or at shortstop. Paul had a tremendous season in the most difficult league on Long Island. Statistically, Paul finished the season leading the team in Batting Average (.344), Hits (22), Singles (16), Doubles (4), and tied for RBI’s (17). Paul has a bright baseball future and will always be an important member of the Kellenberg Baseball Program.
Most Improved Player
Kenny Noe
Junior Kenny Noe came into tryouts this past March a completely different player, both physically and mentally. Motivated to prove he’s one of the best players in the league after committing to Divison 1 Monmouth University, Kenny showed up in tremendous physical shape and ready to play every day at a high level. As a Junior, Kenny finished in the Top 10 in major offenseive categories such as Batting Average (.340), Hits (17), and Homeruns (3). We look forward to Kenny’s continued growth and drive as a baseball player going into his Senior year at Kellenberg.
Most Valuable Player
Andrew Koshy
Senior Andrew Koshy will go down as one of the most important athletes to ever have come to Kellenberg. Andrew is a once in a generation talent, being a top pitcher in the CHSAA ever since he was a sophomore. He will be remembered for transforming the baseball program and representing “KM” with dignity and respect. Committed to the top ranked school in Divison 1 baseball, Wake Forest University, Andrew is one of the top pitchers in the United States. Statistically, Andrew finished with a 5-0 record. In 37 innings pitched, he finished with an astounding 0.568 ERA and 46 strikeouts, while only surrendering 3 earned runs. As one of the favorites to win the Pitcher of the Year Award in the CHSAA, we hope for a fitting end to an incredibly memorable career for Andrew.
Solosky Award – 12 Season Athletes