On November 30, 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
Your boy’s varsity soccer team had their sights on only one goal this and every season. That is to become a champion. Over the last few years, this goal has been the expectation and not the exception, given the talent that continues to play in our program, their off-season commitment to training, and their resiliency to compete in the most competitive league in New York State. It is because of their commitment to the program that this season, the team finished overall with a 72% winning percentage of 15-5-3, 9-3 in the league, and shattered the school record for goals scored in a single season with 72.
Though what came with the statistical success of the season, this team faced many internal moments of adversity when it comes to what sadly is now considered anti-cultural in sports. The concept is, it’s not about me, it’s about us. Regardless of talent, if a team does not selflessly make the necessary sacrifices to win for each other, it becomes almost impossible to accomplish any goal. However, by the end of the season, many witnessed players beginning to understand this concept and demonstrate a level of the game that would confidently allow us to expect to win in any contest. This concept was especially true in our semifinal defeat by the hands of this year’s league champions, St. Anthony’s. Anyone who watched this contest in Central Islip would have told you how competitive, physical, and emotional the game was and how it came down to which team would capitalize on one error.
As one season ends, a new season has already begun for our underclassmen, who now know what it will take to fulfill our program’s expectations.
Zachary Oliveira
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Zachary is the embodiment of what this award represents. He was a player that continuously rotated from both a starting and reserve position, and he never allowed it to bother him. Instead, he played whatever role we asked of him with all the necessary effort, which led him to be one of our more valuable point leaders on the team with nine goals and two assists this season.
Aiden Mustafich
Most Improved Player
This award goes to a player based on his improvement throughout his varsity career. Last year, he played a limited role on the field, as there was much uncertainty as to where he would fit best in our tactical system. As he entered this season, we as a staff knew he would be best for our system as a wingback, a role that Aiden was not as comfortable in, but he turned out to be the most consistent player in the back four all season.
Player Name
Brady Schmidt
It is no surprise to anyone that Brady Schmidt is this team’s MVP. He has been a three-year starter, team captain and finished this season with seven goals and six assists. This young man has been essential to our program’s success these last few years, and we are excited for him as he begins his collegiate career next fall.
All League Players
First Team
Brady Schmidt and Miles Abdeldaim
Second Team
Terence Allen and JonAnthony Panaro
– – – – – – –
All-State – Brady Schmidt
Offensive League MVP – Brady Schmidt
Girls Varsity Soccer
The Girls Varsity soccer team entered this season with nine returning seniors and a core group of talented underclassmen. Through summer workouts, early-season practices, and the incredible honor of appearing in the Play for Mary! Mary Ruchalski Foundation Game benefiting pediatric cancer research, the team came together quickly and got off to a strong start.
The Firebirds took on tough opponents in both league and non-league games. They notched big wins against South Side High School, Oceanside, Mepham, and Manhasset. Fueled by a dynamic midfield, explosive offense, and unmatched chemistry, the girls established themselves as a formidable opponent in every appearance. Modest in victory and gracious in defeat, the team exemplified the Firebird way.
The Coaching Staff is proud to have coached such a committed team. We look forward to next season with the returning players, and wish those graduating every success.
Brigid Brown
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
This year’s Bernie Ward commitment award goes to a young woman who displayed positive energy, sportsmanship and showed up with a smile on her face everyday. Brigid Brown would go out of her way to encourage her teammates. She was always willing to go above and beyond for her teammates and help mentor the underclassmen. We will miss having Brigid on our team next year as she always brought such positive energy to our team. This year’s Bernie Ward Commitment award recipient is Brigid Brown.
Erin Occhino
Most Improved Player
This year’s Most Improved Player is a young woman who showed up everyday with a positive attitude and great work ethic. Erin saw limited time on the field as a junior but came into this fall season with such confidence on the field. She became a fixture up front for our team and helped create numerous opportunities in big games for the Lady Firebirds. Erin has been an absolute pleasure to coach and we wish her the best of luck in the future. This year’s Most Improved Player is Erin Occhino.
Player Name
Olivia Jungkunst
This year’s Most Valuable Player is a young woman who never stops. Since the end of last season Olivia has gone above and beyond during her offseason training. Throughout this fall Olivia has played almost every position on the field that was asked of her. She excelled in whatever position she was placed at, knowing that it was for the betterment of the team. The coaching staff is looking forward to Olivia’s continued growth for next season. This year’s Most Valuable Player is Olivia Jungkunst.
All League Players
Olivia Jungkunst, Dalia Morelli, Mia Claro, Morgan Farrell
Girls Varsity Volleyball
Winning is hard. Really hard. It requires sacrifice, perseverance, grit, and an indomitable desire to improve. If a team ever stops striving to get better, the race is lost. For as soon as the foot eases up on the gas pedal, there are three or four opponents burning to speed past you to get to the finish line first. The target is on your back the entire time, and fellow competitors band together, looking for ways to make you slow down so that one of them can overtake you.
But the 2023 team never went into coast mode. In fact, only two matches weren’t outright sweeps. That means the set ratio was 48 and 3. In both playoff rounds, the Firebirds went 6 and 0 against SJB and a very talented SHA, respectively. Excessive heat indexes didn’t create lethargy; flood cancellations didn’t dampen their pursuit of excellence. Even at the State Tournament, because of a quirky format, the girls had “technically” swept Xaverian by beating them twice in pool play and then once in the semifinals, before their opponent got hot two games in a row and advanced.
What this squad committed to in the off-season set the speed and tempo of this 2023 drive, a journey that, beyond league play, was highlighted by an incredibly challenging tournament schedule featuring matches against five eventual Long Island Championhip finalists!
With that kind of gas in the tank and drivers who are fearless and relentless, it’s no wonder that the 2023 team crossed the finish line first, compiling a 16-0 undefeated record and capturing the NSCHSGAA crown. As they said back in mid-August, “It’s only us.”
Grace Canade
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Bernie Ward was a high energy guy with a magnetic personality, so it is fitting that our Coaches Award goes to someone who shares these same characteristics. Whether she is MC-ing pep rallies, performing at Advent Prayer Services, or scooping up digs on the volleyball court, Grace Canade does everything with passion.
Teams only form bonds of trust if they have leaders who are selfless, dedicated and focused on the WE not the ME. Grace was this kind of leader for our 2023 team. During the off-season, she helped organize weight training sessions along with open gym workouts. She took charge of all intra-squad communications through group texts/chats, keeping her teammates in the loop regarding practices, games, tournaments, and even transportation. She helped mastermind the details involving the coach’s speeches and team scrapbook on Senior Night and served as our most vocal captain on and off the court at all times.
As her teacher and coach, I feel so blessed to have her in uniform—whether it be in vb gear after school or in a senior sweater during 5th period World Literature. Like Mr. Ward, she brightens a room with her charismatic personality, her keen mind, her selfless manner of giving, and her unparalleled enthusiasm. Congratulations to Grace Canade for being our Coaches Award recipient for this 2023 season.
Kennedy Mayers
Most Improved Player
If you met her in the hallway and spoke briefly to her, you would think, “Wow, that girl is so kind, so gentle, so sweet.” Put her on the other side of a volleyball net, however, and she morphs into a competitive warrior who continually thwarts opponents’ offense with her resounding blocks and frustrates their defensive schemes with her well placed attacks and off- speed tips. This study of contrasts is a brief biographical sketch of our MIP: Kennedy Mayers.
In the 2022 season, Kennedy watched and waited from the wings, repping hard in practice but not seeing much court time during league play or tournaments. However, the 2023 season presented a totally different scenario. From the first scrimmage in August to the State Tournament in November, she was our primary middle hitter. Her ability to dominate a match emerged quite clearly in a September home contest against St. Anthony’s where she hit an unbelievable .733, crushing 11 kills and stuffing 6 solo blocks. Very often, it was her attack swing that ended critical matches for us, including both Sacred Heart contests, the first on Senior Night (which was also her birthday) and the other on the night of the championship. In that contest, Sacred Heart started to heat up at the end of the third set, scoring 3 points in a row to tighten the margin to 24-22. With the outcome teetering in the balance, our setter directed the next ball Kennedy’s way, and Kennedy went for it. She swung through the Spartan block, the ball landed on their side, and the celebration began! Well loved by all of her teammates and recognized as a woman of high caliber by the coaching staff and the KM faculty, we are so pleased to name Kennedy Mayers this year’s Most Improved Player.
Bianca Sapano
Most Valuable Player
An MVP can be measured in many ways, and this year we had to truly examine what standards we needed to employ when selecting a single player for this recognition. Why? Because we were blessed with having some very fine candidates worthy of this title. When a decision like this is so tough and the possible recipients so talented, what do you use to decide?
Do you go strictly by the numbers? Do you gauge it by outside accolades? Do you examine performance in pressure situations? Do you look at it by position and evaluate whose absence would cause the greatest disruption in the rotation? When it came to selecting this year’s MVP, the coaching staff considered all four questions and came to the conclusion that we could not have been a championship team–and an undefeated one at that–if it weren’t for the efforts of Bianca Sapano, who sublimated her own desire to play a hitting and passing position in order to assume the role of setter for the 2023 season.
Despite never having played the position before, Bianca embraced the drill work, the strategic nuances, and the psychological insights that come with assuming that role. A setter is akin to the quarterback on a football team, so you can understand how a skill position like that is such a tough one to undertake for the first time, especially at the varsity level no less!
With every match, there was considerable improvement in Bianca’s game so that by the first third of the season, she was jump-setting EVERY ball, connecting on 2nd tempo plays with her middle attackers, and getting comfortable with reading her teammates’ emotions when deciding set distribution. Not only did she dominate that position by accumulating 690 assists on the year, but she also was a fearless defender, saving ball after ball with her 152 digs and accumulating 47 combined solo and assist blocks, including an outlandish tally of 7 blocks in the championship!
When the stakes were highest–in the finals of every tournament and in the league and State playoffs–Bianca could be counted on to never flinch, never freeze, never concede. She doesn’t surrender an inch to any opponent; they have to outright beat her because she doesn’t care about their size, their previous record, or their college recruiting status. Her carefree spirit, light-hearted sense of humor, and deep-seated competitiveness is best summed up in her comment to the coaching staff after the final point was scored in the championship game. With a smile on her face and a twinkle in her eye, she said, “That was SO much fun!”
All League Players
NSCHSGAA Offensive Player of the Year – Stella Becker
Championship MVP – Bianca Sapano
AVCA Max Preps Player of the Week (9/18-24) – Stella Becker
AVCA Max Preps Player of the Week (10/21-27) – Bianca Sapano
AVCA Best and Brightest (3.80+ GPA and competed in over 50% of contests)
Alyssa Bargellini, Grace Canade, Julia Maniscalco, Brooke Mollica, Olivia Orphanos
Girls Varsity Swimming
This season was nothing shy of historic for the Girls Varsity Swim Team. Not only in their performances, but also in their ability to come together as a team. With their abilities that the girls have to come together as a team, they were able to land a win over St. Anthony’s for the first time during a dual meet with a score of 101-69. With the teams hard work and dedication, we scored second place again at the Championship meet for the second year in a row. The team also had 19 individual performances within the top 10 in the league, 4 state qualifiers, 3 state cut times, 56 personal best times at our championships and 11 season best times. The coaches and I can’t express how proud we are of the team and can’t wait to see what they bring to the table next season.
Sofia Paggi
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Sofia has been a part of the team since she was a freshman. She has been a true member of the team by showing up to everything including practices, meets, and retreats. She shows up ready to work her hardest and better herself to help the team in their success. During the season she was a true leader and an amazing captain. She really helped bring the team together and lead them to the successes that they had this season. Her leadership skills will be carried down in the seasons to come.
Gabrielle Szalai
Most Improved Player
Gabrielle is a true definition of someone who never gives up and succeeds. During her regular season, she was constantly getting the same time and felt defeated. At champs she knew that this was going to be her meet, and she was right about that. Starting out the season with a time of 32 for her 50 free, she ended the season by breaking a 30 and getting a 28.37. Dropping the most time I have seen all season. She has shown the most growth in the team and the coaches and I couldn’t be more proud her for her accomplishment this season.
Morgan Kelsch
Most Valuable Player
Morgan is a key member of the swim both in and out of the water. She came to every practice eager to swim in order to achieve her best times. She’s received first place in her individual events at dual meets along with helping her relay teams get first as well. In addition to her spectacular swimming she also cheers on all her fellow teammates. She qualified for the state meet in all 3 of her events and was the highest point swimmer, earning the most points throughout the entire season. The team and coaches couldn’t be more proud of all of her success and support of other swimmers this season.
All League Players
Blessing Williamson Shannon White Sara Mattone Katerina Mazur Alison Nunez Morgan Kelsch Sofia Paggi Isabella Law
Girls Varsity Girls Cross Country
In fifty years of involvement of the sport of cross country as an athlete, promoter, coach, I have never witnessed a weather affected season like this one. Heat postponements, three multi-school invitationals rained out, rain, rain rain every Saturday. But as a renowned coach and sports psychologist told our team, “Winners find a way in, not out.” Like a canopy with some rough edges, the culture of winning quietly, but firmly covered our team . After a horribly and equally humbling humid start at the very competitive Connecticut Wilton Invitational, the team returned to New York’s xc mecca, Van Cortlandt Park to win the Regis Invitational Varsity A team title. The team gained great experience and built camaraderie competing in New Jersey’s Shore Classic at their xc mecca, Holmdel Park. A small unit of sophomores pulled off a huge upset in winning the NSCHSGAA soph team championship. The team was blessed with leadership from the league coach’s selectee as NSCHSAA Scholar Athlete , Kelsey Nichols, who went on even after taking a hard downhill fall in the Catholic state meet to lead a group of fellow junior tri-captains Shannon Pulis, Michaela Dennean, two newcomer juniors Cece Kane and Caroline Malewski, a sophomore EJ Darcy, and a freshman, Jessica Estrella to another NY State Federation CHampionship berth. With those young stalwarts, and the CHSAA JV championship team coming back, the team looks forward to a fine future.
Kayla Gornstein
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
As the great Teddy Roosevelt reminded us at the Sorbonne in 1924, “It is not the critic that counts…the credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is actually marred by dust, sweat, and blood who strives valiantly; who errs, and comes short again and again, because there is no effort without shortcoming…who at worst, if he/she fails, at least fails while daring greatly…so that her place will never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.” This young woman rises with the consistency of her sustained dedication to task and commitment , rising with the strong, and never with the cold and timid, an athlete Teddy Roosevelt would be, and this coaching staff IS proud of. We are honored to award senior Kayla Gornstein the Bernie Ward Commitment Award.
Caroline Malewski
Most Improved Player
Legendary world soccer star, Pele, once said, ” Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.” This converted soccer player brought her tools of success- hard work, perseverance, love of learning, and sacrifice to our sport of cross country and it paid dividends. She went from being a neophyte runner over hill and dale to a member of the NY State Federation XC qualifying team, We are honored tonight to award junior Caroline Malewski as our Most Improved Performer.
Kelsey Nichols
Most Valuable Player
This senior, not only our team’s top running leader for the past two years, was also the designated NSCHSGAA Scholar-Athlete, chosen for her sustained balance of excellence in academics, athletics, service, and leadership. She was the team’s number one performer in all but one of the team’s competitions this season. In the Catholic State Championship Meet, she took a hard fall and tumble, rose and led her team into the State Championship Meet. Kelsey Nichols whether she falls in a rare moment, ALWAYS RISES, and her examples of that merit her as our repeat Most Valuable Performer.
All League Players
Kelsey Nichols, Ryleigh Nasso, Michaela Dennean, Cece Kane
NSCHSGAA Scholar Athlete – Kelsey Nichols
Boys Cross Country
This year’s cross country season has been marked by hard work, dedication, and a remarkable display of improvement. As we stand here tonight, we not only honor the individual efforts of our athletes but also the collective spirit that has defined our team.
The Kellenberg Boys Cross Country Team opened its season with a solid performance at
The Regis Invitational. The dual meet portion of the season served as stepping stones where our athletes showed consistent improvement throughout. The best performances of the season were saved for the championship portion of the season, where our team members performed their best times. When it was all said and done, all our runners showed remarkable improvement, dropping minutes off their personal best times.
This year’s Kellenberg Cross Country team has truly exemplified the essence of perseverance and growth. From the very beginning of the season, our athletes embraced the challenges that lay ahead, and through their unwavering commitment, they have transformed into good cross country runners.
To the Seniors on this year’s team, Anthony Cannella, Giuseppe DiDomenico, Andrew Miglino, and Peter Gentilini. I would like to thank you for all your years of dedication to the team. Your hard work and leadership will be missed next year.
Peter Gentilini
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Peter Gentilini served as the team’s Captain this year. Peter put the team’s needs above his own always this season. He was the most committed member to making our team into a better team. He showed great leadership skills. He is beloved by both his teammates and the coaching staff. This year’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award goes to Peter Gentilini.
Amir Ajenishe
Most Improved Player
Amir Ajenishe came into the season as our top returning sophomore runner. Amir worked very hard this season to improve to become one of the best sophomore runners in the Catholic State League and also one of the best varsity runners on our team. Amir was in the running to be the MVP this season. He was our top varsity runner in multiple meets this season. This year’s Most Improved Runner Award goes to Amir Ajenishe.
Andrew Miglino
Most Valuable Player
Andrew Miglino was the team’s Most Valuable Runner last year. He came in as the favorite to repeat as the award winner. Andrew worked very hard this season and became an even better runner than last year. Just like last year, Andrew saved his best running performances for the championship portion of the season. This year’s Most Valuable Runner award goes to Andrew Miglino.
Tennis A
Congratulations to the ladies of Varsity A, they are the undefeated 2023 NSCHSAA Varsity Tennis League and division champions. An unbelievable season accomplished by a group of phenomenal athletes and young women. Match after match the girls competed against the top tennis players of our league. It wasn’t easy, but the girls had the talent and competitive focus that drove them to victory. From the beginning of the season it was obvious how special this team was. To start our singles players Captains Anjali Edmonds, Delia Cashin, along with sophomore Sydney Rochefort led the league with a collective winning record of 27-5. But it takes a team to win the match as we play the best of 7 at every meet against our competitors. Our doubles lineup was led by Katelyn Larmann/Elizabeth O’Hara on court 1, Victoria Atkinson/Lena Costanza on court 2, Emma Wagner/Laken Maroney on court 3 and Arianna Lopez Silguero/Brielle Kirkland on court 4. They had an overall record of 27 victories to 5 losses which is a new school record. Newcomers to the team seniors Gabriella Barnjak, Sophia Barnjak, Sienna Bonevita, Jessica Poprocky, Alexa Scheer and Sophomore Valentina Puccio stepped in to cover throughout the season and did not disappoint, winning several matches and contributing to the overall success of the team. In a testament to the talent of our girls, the NSCHSAA awarded 11 Varsity A players and 4 Varsity B players all league titles and a 2023 Player of the Year for their individual successes during the season. A special Thank you to all our supporters who cheered the girls on throughout the season and to our team manager Robert “Damian” Sileo who provided advice, helped with practice and assisted during the matches.
In addition to a busy month of back to back matches the girls took time to bond spiritually at our retreat. It was a fun filled evening which involved team games, lots of eating and reflection. Both the Varsity A and B teams walked and raised awareness for Autism Speaks. Together the girls raised over $2,000 dollars that will be used to support research and medical discovery, as well as help fund local services through their mission. But despite their busy schedules the girls have also maintained high academic standards, collectively earning a team average of over 94%
We are extremely grateful to have been blessed with beautiful courts at St. Charles Complex. Our tennis program has become one the best in all the conferences as we continue to nurture and support future athletes by offering camps, clubs and tournaments at home. The girls of Varsity A are a shining example of what greatness can come from this and No doubt our underclassmen will return next season with the same focus and drive. We will miss our seniors Anjali, Delia, Laken, Gabriella, Sophia, Jessica, Lexi and Sienna. We look forward to following their successes on and off the court, and wish them a future filled with faith, love and happiness.
Anjali Edmonds
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
The girls varsity team has been honored to have Anjali on our team since freshman year. Anjali has always demonstrated high level of play, good sportsmanship and commitment to her team. Anjali earned the top singles spot over the past three years, competing against the best of Varsity A and AA divisions. This year Anjali was awarded the 2023 NSCHSAA Player of the Year, for leading the team to a victorious season. Off the court Anjali has maintained high academic honors and is a member of the National Honor Society. But most importantly, Anjali gave her teammates a positive role model to follow. Her friendly and easy going persona was welcoming to all. No doubt Anjali will continue to lead and succeed on and off the court.
Arianna Lopez Silguero
Most Improved Player
Without question, this young lady displayed commitment to the team and the sport. Arianna has been a member of the team for the past three years and is our choice for most improved player. Every season Arianna came back with greater skill sets but during the 2023 season she excelled with even greater accomplishments. Arianna’s overall record was 9-2. She guided her new partner with patience and leadership. Arianna’s determination and ability to adjust throughout the game, made her one of the best athletes to coach and we are excited to see what next year will bring.
Delia Cashin
Most Valuable Player
Delia Cashin has been on the Varsity Tennis Team since she was a Freshman and has earned numerous awards which include All League Honors, KMHS Bernie Ward Commitment Award and now for the second year in a row Most Valuable Player. Delia played an integral role on second singles, easily defeating her opponents and finishing her season with an undefeated record of 8-0 in league play. Delia’s commitment to the sport and her teammates are unmatched.
Many student athletes can list all their accomplishments but there is something extra special about Delia. Delia leads by example in both academics and athletics. She is committed to her studies in the Honors program and is a member of the National Honor Society. Delia trains and plays tennis 5 days a week but always has time to help out underclassmen during and after school. Delia has been a senior counselor for our Tennis Camps the past few years and a leader of the Kellenberg Tennis Club.
It may not be obvious at first glance, but Delia has a strong and powerful drive to succeed in all she does. We have had the privilege to watch and be part of her growth throughout her Latin School and High School experience at Kellenberg Memorial. There is no doubt Delia will continue to succeed in anything she does. We will miss Delia but know with the combination of her work ethic, character, and talent she will shine and reach greatness throughout her collegiate years and beyond.
All League Players
Anjali Edmonds, Delia Cashin, Sydney Rochefort, Kaitlyn Larmann, Elizabeth O’Hara, Lena Costanza, Victoria Atkinson, Emma Wagner, Laken Maroney, Arianna Lopez Silguero, Brielle Kirkland
2023 NSCHSAA Player of the Year
Anjali Edmonds
Girls Tennis B
The Girls Varsity Tennis B team had a phenomenal season. The team, captained by veterans Riley Flanagan, Alexa Doht and Bella O’ Donnell had an undefeated season with a record of 9-0 in match play. The captains demonstrated excellent leadership and were great motivators. They were incredibly determined to get to the finals. Tennis is such a multifaceted sport. It combines both individual play and teams playing simultaneously to come up with the win. Each match brought new challenges and this determined group figured it out. The smile on their faces, their grit and perseverance, week after week was something to be admired. One of the most frustrating aspects of tennis, super tie-breakers, very often determines the win or loss of a match. It does not necessarily mean one team is better than the other, yet it determines the outcome. The girls got their wish, they made it to finals! Unfortunately, our season did not end the way we hoped for, with a 3-4 loss in a super tiebreak. Although disappointed with the outcome, I have never been more proud of my girls for fighting to the very last minute. I want to remind my girls of the importance of cherishing the victorious season we had, and not focusing on the one match that got away from us.
To my seniors, the past four years have been incredible and extremely rewarding to the tennis program.
To all my girls, each one of you are incredible athletes and an excellent example of the kind of student-athletes Kellenberg wants to have representing them. As your coaches, we see each one of you as a champion. We thoroughly enjoyed teaching you, coaching you, and spending everyday on the courts together. Congratulations on the most successful and memorable season that the Girls Varsity Tennis B Team has ever had.
Riley Flanagan
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
The most committed player for the Varsity Tennis B Team displayed excellent leadership, sportsmanship and always showed up with a smile on her face. She never missed a match or a practice and was an incredible role model to the team. She was so reliable, led the team in warm ups, encouraged them before matches, and cheered them on to victory. This player was enthusiastic and extremely competitive. She was a great doubles partner, determined to go the distance, and never gave up. She played her heart out in every match and even if she was behind, she found a way to win. What sets this player apart from all others is her disposition, her sense of humor, and compassion towards her teammates and coaching staff. We have so much respect for you as you truly embodied what Kellenberg strives to instill in their student-athletes. The past four years, we were blessed to have such a positive, dedicated and kind-hearted player on our team. This year’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award goes to Riley Flanagan. Congratulations Riley, you will be sorely missed!
Alexa Hubmeier
Most Improved Player
The entire team improved drastically throughout the season, but none more than this one player. Although she had her own style of playing tennis, her determination and dedication to the team is what set her apart from the rest. Her skills at the net were a force to be reckoned with. Perhaps her eagerness to improve her game and her willingness to listen is what led to her success on the court. Besides being a great athlete, this player has the most incredible personality, the kindest heart and she is every coaches’ dream. Although she didn’t start initially, she worked tirelessly to improve and she ultimately found herself on a winning court in the finals. This year’s Most Improved Player award goes to Lexi Hubmeier. Congratulations on a job more than well done. You made your coaches proud!
Bella O'Donnell
Most Valuable Player
On a team, your most valuable player will consistently come up with a win and never gives up when faced with a challenge. One of our undefeated seniors, who was determined to improve her skills over the last four years, had the most exciting season. Not only did she play on the highest doubles court, she found a way to win even when she was down in games. Losing was not an option. This player would hit during practice with singles players or any other teammates looking to enhance their skills. She never said no to any type of competition in practice. She was an unbelievable doubles partner and was supportive and positive during match play. Thank you for your dedication to our team and to the tennis program over the last four years. You will undoubtedly be missed next year. This year’s Most Valuable Player Award goes to Bella O’Donnell. Congratulations Bella!
All League Players
Bella O’Donnell, Riley Flanagan, Alexa Doht, Colleen Tierney, Alexa Hubmeier, Nadia Gatti
Boys Varsity Crew
The 2023 season for the Kellenberg Memorial High School Rowing team was defined by teamwide improvements on the ergs and on the water. The team overcame obstacles, such as injuries, equipment issues, and inclement weather through their demonstration of commitment, perseverance, and teamwork.
Competition highlights included racing at two regattas – the Overpeck Fall Classic in Northern New Jersey early in the season, and the local Row for the Fight in Manhasset nearing season’s end. Some rowers took home hardware from Manhasset, including:
- A second place finish in the Men’s Novice 8+
- A third place finish in the Women’s Novice 4+
- A first place finish in the Women’s JV 4+
- A second place finish in the Women’s Varsity 4+
- A second place finish in the Men’s Varsity 4+
Overall, it was a successful season for the team with notable improvements and bright potential. With continued dedication in the offseason and next year, the team is ready to take on the Spring championship season.
Kyle Ivey
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Always giving the extra effort to become better individually, Kyle Ivey has shown his commitment to making our team faster. He consistently works hard in practice, pushing himself and his teammates to improve with each stroke. His leadership and grit make him an invaluable member of our program, and he is truly deserving of recognition as our most committed rower.
Ryan McGlade
Most Improved Player
Entering the season as a novice and earning his spot on the varsity squad, Ryan McGlade has demonstrated the most significant improvement this season. His focus on the water has cultivated a clean technique, making him a valuable asset to the boat. Finally, his significant 40-second improvement on the erg over the season was the biggest on the team.
Dante Karaiskos
Most Valuable Player
Acting as a role model for not only the other rowers on his crew, but the novice rowers as well, Dante Karaiskos motivates every member of the team. He brings energy to every practice and race, lighting up his crew and inspires them to reach their maximum potential. A true leader for this team who makes those around him better, Dante is the most valuable asset to making our program successful.
Varsity Girls Crew
The 2023 season for the Kellenberg Memorial High School Rowing team was defined by teamwide improvements on the ergs and on the water. The team overcame obstacles, such as injuries, equipment issues, and inclement weather through their demonstration of commitment, perseverance, and teamwork.
Competition highlights included racing at two regattas – the Overpeck Fall Classic in Northern New Jersey early in the season, and the local Row for the Fight in Manhasset nearing season’s end. Some rowers took home hardware from Manhasset, including:
- A second place finish in the Men’s Novice 8+
- A third place finish in the Women’s Novice 4+
- A first place finish in the Women’s JV 4+
- A second place finish in the Women’s Varsity 4+
- A second place finish in the Men’s Varsity 4+
Overall, it was a successful season for the team with notable improvements and bright potential. With continued dedication in the offseason and next year, the team is ready to take on the Spring championship season.
Madeline Fracasso
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Maddie Fracasso has been a part of our crew program since her freshman year. She has rarely missed a practice and always shows up for her team. She is constantly working hard both on and off the water to help make her boat faster. If a coach ever needs a favor, we can count on Maddie to make it happen. Maddie is such a light on our team. She is always willing to help guide the newer crew members, which has been a great asset to our team.
Gianna Mastrande
Most Improved Player
Gianna Mastrande has shown great determination this season with perfecting her stroke. She was constantly asking for advice from the coaching staff on how to correct her mistakes and ultimately become a better rower. Finally, she had one of the greatest improvements out of her team, knocking off 38 seconds from her 2k time. We look forward to a strong spring season with Gianna.
Julia Murray
Most Valuable Player
Julia Murray was one of our varsity coxswains this past season. She truly knows how to motivate not only her crew, but her entire team on and off the water. She was a valuable asset to the crew team this past season as she was called to fill in for other crews as she was needed. She led two boats to a 2nd place victory during the Row for the Fight Regatta. She was also extremely helpful in directing the new novice coxswains.
Varsity Dance Team
The 2023 Kellenberg Varsity Dance Team exemplified hard work, dedication, and commitment to ensure a successful fall season. We began our season a few days 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 2024 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 four 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 karaoke. 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.
Susan Entenmann
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
This year’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award goes to a senior who has endlessly shown how dedicated she is to this team and how much of a leader she is. She is always willing to go above and beyond to help her teammates and coaches in any capacity. She has taken on a huge leadership role and guided her underclassmen teammates every step of the way. She continues to work tirelessly improving her skills and is a beautiful dancer and addition to the team. Her new ideas for motivation and team bonding have been incredible. Her work ethic is astounding and her positive attitude in practice is extremely admirable. This year’s Most Committed Award goes to Senior, Susan Entenmann.
Paige Zaslow
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 last year, over the summer and this past Fall 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 enormously, becoming an even better dancer. She has gained the respect of her teammates and the coaches through her commitment to the sport. She is always looking to improve, and we have seen her become a developed and gifted dancer. This year’s Most Improved Player Award goes to Senior, Paige Zaslow.
Lindsay Trum
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 is an integral part of the Varsity Team and has one of the most positive attitudes in the program. She brings such a positive, upbeat energy to the team and always is there to encourage anybody that needs it. She has developed her skills over the past year and is a clear example of what it means to be dedicated and never give up. 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, Lindsay Trum.
Varsity Cheerleading
Fall cheerleading is meant for sidelines at football games, team events like service walks and youth clinics, and turning a group of strangers with varying abilities into a cohesive, skilled team. Since tryouts in August, these girls have shown that they are committed to improvement and that they are willing to put the work in. They have already made enormous strides in their stunting skills and continue to work on their jumps, tumbling, and game day technique. Rain or shine, the girls cheered their hearts out at football games each week, even collaborating with the Varsity dance team to put on an impressive performance at this year’s Homecoming game. They participated in the Breast Cancer Walk at Jones Beach to raise awareness and over $1,000 for such a meaningful cause. At our annual youth clinic, they instructed future firebirds on the basics of cheerleading, teaching them what it’s like to be a Kellenberg cheerleader. At practice, this team is extremely motivated to get better each and every day. We are impressed with their work ethic and their attitude of, “can we just try one more?” With the winter competitive season in mind, these girls have worked tirelessly to obtain elite skills. Coach Lastig and I are confident that if their positive work ethic continues, this team will accomplish great things! 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.
Ava Harkin
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
This season’s Bernie Ward commitment award goes to a cheerleader who has fully dedicated herself to the sport of cheerleading for over a decade. She is one of the strongest bases on the team and we rely on her for many of the difficult skills that the team must perform. She has a great work ethic and a positive attitude, even after sustaining a serious nose injury. She’s the definition of a team player and is a role model for the rest of the team. Her love for the sport is what has made her into the talented cheerleader that she is today.
Brooke Federico
Most Improved Player
The fall season Most Improved cheerleader is a young lady who has so clearly improved in all aspects of cheerleading throughout her time on Varsity. Coming off of a year where she didn’t have much responsibility on the team, to now as a Senior, becoming a crucial part of the routine. She is involved in every elite stunt and is front and center for the tumbling, jumping, and cheering aspects of the routine. We are proud of how far this cheerleader has come and applaud her efforts.
Olivia Guerriere
Most Valuable Player
The Most Valuable fall cheerleader is someone that has become the backbone to this year’s team. Not just because she has impressive cheerleading skills, but because she is a natural leader and has a contagious personality. We are grateful for her positive, humorous attitude which helps to motivate the rest of her teammates. She is someone that we can always count on and we are happy to acknowledge what value she brings to this team.
Varsity Football
The 2023 Football Season saw the Varsity Firebirds take on the best of the best in New York State and beyond. The teams schedule saw them matchup with four teams ranked in the Top 25 of New York State in addition to the eventual State Champions of Rhode Island. This challenge was taken head on by the Firebirds who prepared with a focused mentality six days a week beginning on August 16th. Daily practices, including twice a day during training camp, group film sessions, team meetings, and weight training all contributed to the achievements of the team. After stumbling to start the season in a couple of very competitive non league games the team rattled off three victories in a row over St. Francis Prep, Christ the King, & St. Josephs by the Sea. From there the competition stiffened and the Firebirds fought through the adversity of tough losses and mounting injuries. In the regular season Finale with the deck stacked against us we put forth one of their best performances of the season against Monsignor Farrell. The Firebirds played inspired football taking a lead into the halftime break before unfortunately yielding the lead and the game to the host Lions. This game and week of preparation leading into it, showed how much character and grit these young men possess. We look forward as coaches to seeing all the great things they go on to do in their lives.
Jimmy Ernst
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Jimmy is the epitome of a team first guy, he is willing to do anything that benefits the team. This is true even if it is not necessarily in the best interest of Jimmy as an individual, which is what made him a great captain. If there was a need at any position on Offense, Defense, or Special Teams Jimmy was more than willing to to try and do his best to help the team there. During practices Jimmy worked tirelessly to not only make himself better but to make his team better as well and took that responsibility very seriously. The devotion to the Kellenberg Football program is something that the coaches will never forget and will always be indebted to Jimmy for.
Kevin McGrory
Most Improved Player
Kevin saw very limited action as a junior, however his athletic ability did not go unnoticed by the coaching staff. During his junior year and into the offseason Kevin did anything and everything he could to prepare for his senior season. This hard work paid off as Kevin started all season on defense at Safety and was the leading tackler for the team. Kevin’s outstanding play not only impressed our coaches but all the others as he was selected as an all league player as well.
Christian DaCosta
Most Valuable Player
Christian came into the season starting at cornerback for us on defense and also earned a spot returning kicks. Midway through the season it was decided to insert him into the rotation at wide receiver so we could maximize his playmaking ability. Christian excelled at all phases of the game this season going against some of the best athletes in New York. Christian was so exceptional in his coverage abilities that over the course of the entire ten game season opposing quarterbacks only tried to throw the ball his way twenty-three times, he added twenty-eight tackles and six pass deflections. On offense Christian touched the ball seventeen times and averaged a remarkable twenty yards with the ball in his hands and added a pair of touchdowns. The coaching staff looks forward to seeing what Christian has in store for his senior campaign.
All League Players
Vincenzo Cascone, Christian DaCosta, Brendan Galla, Ryan Galla, Jack Geoghan, Andrew Kaiser, Kevin McGrory
Senior Bowl Selections
Andrew Kaiser Ryan Galla, Kevin McGrory, Luke Lang, Matthew Iannicelli, Renatto Quiroz, Devin Binkley, Nick Moorer, Noah Foster
