Boys Crew
This fall, the rowing team kicked off the season with a strong focus on land-based training, dedicating hours to strength, conditioning, and refining technique indoors. That commitment paid off, as we saw remarkable gains in speed and endurance, with personal records falling across the board as athletes pushed their limits and built a solid foundation.
Once competition began, the team traveled across Northeast, racing on courses from Hartford to Philadelphia, testing their speed against tough regional opponents. The season culminated at the Head of the Fish Regatta in Saratoga, one of the largest races in the region with over 1600 entries. Our athletes faced elite programs from across the Northeast rising to the challenge with determination and excitement.
With a successful fall behind them, the team now heads into winter training energized and motivated. Building on the momentum of the season, rowers are ready to hone their fitness and speed even further as they prepare for the fast-paced sprint races of the spring. The progress made this fall lays the groundwork for an exciting season ahead.
Gregor Schaefer
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Gregor has shown exceptional consistency, enthusiasm, and dedication throughout the season. He shows up to every practice ready to work, and is always eager to row and push himself to improve. His positive attitude and steady effort set a great example for his teammates, helping elevate the entire team. Gregor’s passion for the sport and commitment to getting better each day make him truly deserving of this award.
Calvin Frederick
Most Improved Player
Calvin has shown remarkable commitment and growth throughout the season. He made an outstanding leap in his 2k performance, shaving significant time through consistent effort, discipline, and determination. Beyond his physical improvement, Calvin also demonstrated a renewed focus and dedication to the team, showing up with purpose, supporting his teammates, and striving every day to get better. His progress exemplifies what hard work and teamwork can achieve.
Caleb Maingon
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Caleb is receiving the Most Valuable Rower Award in recognition of his exceptional speed, skill, enthusiasm, and unwavering dedication. He has been an integral part of the team for the past three years, after having joined in his sophomore year. He consistently delivers strong performances and raises the competitive standard for everyone around him. Caleb’s work ethic and passion for the sport inspires his teammates, and his leadership both on and off the water serves as an example for others to follow. His contributions have been vital to the growth of the team.
Boys Cross Country
The 2025 Cross Country season started as one usually does. Some athletes spent the summer building up their mileage, and some spent their summer lying around and riding their scooters around the Long Beach boardwalk. Yet, from top to bottom, there was a different feel to this squad. As they said themselves, “The vibes were high.” We started the season at the Regis Invitational, where the team finished in 14th, well beyond many of the Catholic Schools that we would be competing against during the championship season. As we dusted off the sand from our summer break, we followed it up with a mediocre performance at the Bob Pratt Invitational, which may or may not have been a result of bad breakfast sausages. But then the turning point came as we travelled to Wappinger Falls to race over the course that hosts the state championship. We placed in the Top 10 in a competitive field, and the boys finally came into form. After that, it was off to the races. A return to the Manhattan Invitational for the first time in 7 years, a 3rd place finish at both Sophomore Championships as well as the Varsity League Championship, and finally this past weekend. For the first time in ten years, the Kellenberg boys’ varsity team qualified for the Federation Championship. The team of Aidan Hopkins, Zach Paggi, Amir Ajenishe, Colby Lazo, Alex Diegnan, and Viktor Lorentz put up arguably the best team performances since the 2001 CHSAA Championship team. Special shout-out to Cameron Peek, Jack Belfi, Daniel Meenan, Jack Sheridan, Evan Doyle, Phil Panaro, Dean Cioffi, Alessandro Mastronadi, and Dean Cioffi, who also competed at intersectionals. This season marked the 48th season that a Gornstein has graced our roster, and we are looking forward to the rest of the year, and perhaps another pasta party. I would like to thank the girls’ coaching staff, Joe Moncada, John Capozzoli, Mr. Fechtmann, Mrs. Diane Hassett, and the entire Kellenberg administration for their support. I would especially like to thank Juan Estrella and Kevin Buckley; without their constant guidance and support, this program would be nothing. .
Viktor Lorentz
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Viktor was a clear choice for captain entering his senior year. Not only does he track every set of every workout, but he never takes days off. Everything he does comes from pure hard work. His commitment was never more evident than when he last went on vacation. While in France, where 9/10 athletes would take advantage of the fine dining and historical sites, Viktor was doing long-distance runs in the mountains and sending his data back to America to remind everyone to work.
Colby Lazo
Most Improved Player
Colby came into this season after a disappointing sophomore campaign that was plagued by injury and illness. Over the fall, he dropped over 40 seconds off his 2.5-mile time, culminating in the best race of his career at the CHSAA Intersectional championship, where he was the team’s 4th scorer, helping clinch a berth to the state qualifier.
Aidan Hopkins
Most Valuable Player
Aidan followed up his impressive freshman campaign with one of the greatest distance seasons in Kellenberg history. Sophomore League Champion, Sophomore Intersectional Champion, 2nd fastest sophomore in the United States, 1st Team All-CHSAA, and broke a 25-year-old school record. This is only the beginning.
All League and Special Awards
Zach Paggi
Boys Soccer
Good evening. As we close the book on the 2025 Boys Soccer season, I want to take a moment to celebrate the journey, the effort, and the sheer character of the young men who proudly wore our colors this year.
As is the expectation of this program—an expectation that is never the exception—this team faced a formidable 22-game schedule. We challenged ourselves not only with a competitive league schedule but also with a non-league schedule that included four state-ranked opponents from states like New Jersey and Rhode Island. We knew it would be a gauntlet, and that was by design: we compete against the best to become the best.
This year’s roster was a perfect blend of wisdom and hunger: a mix of upper and underclassmen. With determination, focus, and pride for this program, these young men rose to the occasion from the very first whistle. They worked relentlessly at every practice and opened the season with an impressive 7-1 record. They set the standard high, proving early on that they were a force to be reckoned with.
However, this season was also a testament to their resilience. The second half presented us with significant adversity in the form of injuries, two of which were season-ending. This forced us to adjust our tactics and personnel almost constantly, making it incredibly difficult to maintain the consistency we had enjoyed in the beginning. This challenging stretch of the season tested their limits and could have easily broken a lesser team’s spirit. Yet, this is where the true character of these young men shone brightest.
I can think of no better way to recognize their effort than by recalling the famous words of our respected colleague here at Kellenberg, the fondly remembered Mrs. Alicia Walsh: “Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, but to learn how to dance in the rain.” And these young men, in every sense, did exactly that. They didn’t fold. They didn’t lose heart. They remained committed to our program’s goals, were tirelessly supportive of each other, and—against all odds—continued to compete at a high level for this team and for this school. They turned adversity into a measure of their unity and their grit.
It was an absolute pleasure to manage these young men this season. We, as a coaching staff, are incredibly proud of what they achieved and, more importantly, who they became throughout this journey.
We look forward to next season, ready to build upon the lessons learned and the character displayed.
Thank you. Gentlemen, you may return to your seats.
Michael Illiano
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
It is our honor to present the Bernie Ward Commitment Award to Michael Illiano.
This award recognizes the player who embodies unwavering dedication and heart—qualities Michael has demonstrated without fail over the past two varsity seasons. As one of our goalkeepers, Michael has experienced his share of success and adversity. But regardless of whether he was celebrating a crucial shutout or facing down a tough opponent, he showed up every single practice and game with the exact same focus.
His consistent attitude, exceptional work ethic, and quiet willingness to serve his team have defined his career. Michael didn’t just stand in the goal; he was a constant source of positive energy, using his words and actions on the field to raise the spirit of his teammates.
Michael, your daily commitment has set the standard for what it means to be a varsity athlete. Congratulations on earning the Bernie Ward Commitment Award!
Christopher Purificato
Most Improved Player
This year, the Most Improved Player Award goes to a senior whose journey is a perfect testament to the power of dedication: Christopher Purificato.
Chris entered his final season with some uncertainty about his role, following a strong, but still evolving, junior campaign. Yet, it only took a few weeks of consistent, focused effort for that uncertainty to vanish. His dedication to the practice field—and his ability to capitalize on every opportunity he earned during games—was undeniable.
Through sheer hard work, Chris rapidly ascended, becoming a full-time starter midway through the season. His transformation is a powerful example for every player: it shows how digging in, staying focused, and committing to daily improvement truly pays off.
Congratulations, Chris, on an outstanding season and for earning the Most Improved Player Award!
Dacen Vazquez
Most Valuable Player
The Most Valuable Player Award is reserved for the individual whose impact is felt across every position and every match. This year, there was simply no question that this player is Dacen Vazquez.
The coaching staff immediately recognized the essential role Dacen was to play, and he was quickly promoted to one of our captains. He is the definition of a leader whose actions speak louder than words, delivering the most consistently high-level performance on our squad throughout the season.
Dacen was constantly tasked with the toughest assignments, facing down our opponents’ best strikers and most dangerous players. Regardless of the pressure, he handled every challenge with remarkable skill, composure, and ease. He made the difficult look routine, and his presence on the field was invaluable to our success.
Congratulations, Dacen, on being named our Most Valuable Player!
All League Athletes & Special Awards
1st Team: Dacen Vazquez / 2nd Team: Matthew Hopper, Declan Healy, Micah Joseph
All-State – Dacen Vazquez
Cheerleading
This fall season has been marked by tremendous growth, steady dedication, and impressive progress from our Varsity cheerleaders. This group has pushed themselves in every practice, gaining high-level skills at a remarkable pace. Their motivation and work ethic have truly stood out, and they continue to raise the bar for themselves day after day.
Since August, the girls have committed themselves to perfecting our competitive routine, which they will debut next weekend at the Archdiocese Regional in Staten Island, our competitive season opener. Alongside their competition preparation, the team brought great spirit to the sidelines during Varsity football games and helped make our first Homecoming game on our own turf a true Firebird celebration. Their joint halftime performance with the Varsity dance team was a standout moment, showcasing both teams’ energy and school spirit.
Beyond the sidelines, the team made a meaningful impact by participating in the Breast Cancer Walk, where they proudly made strides and far exceeded their fundraising goal. Their leadership and generosity were on full display.
Another highlight of the season was their outstanding work at our youth clinic, where they guided more than 100 future Firebirds with enthusiasm and professionalism. Their positive influence and strong example made the event a tremendous success.
The fall season has been fast-paced, spirited, and full of heart, and we are incredibly proud of everything this team has accomplished. With such a strong start, we can’t wait to see what the Winter season brings!
Emma Cooney
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
This season’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award goes to a young lady who has fully dedicated herself to being a Kellenberg Varsity cheerleader. She is a reliable, powerful base who constantly pushes herself and those around her to improve, always looking for ways to grow in both stunting and tumbling. Although she is more quiet and reserved, her commitment speaks louder than words. She has never missed a practice, never needs to be asked twice, and gives her absolute best every single day. She is a true role model for her teammates, and we are proud to recognize her unwavering dedication and spirit.
Bella Lovera
Most Improved Player
The Most Improved Varsity Cheerleader is an athlete who has worked incredibly hard to elevate herself in every aspect of cheerleading. After coming off an injury last year, she committed herself to consistent effort and steady growth, becoming a key member of our competitive team. Her stunting has strengthened significantly, and she has even expanded on her already elite tumbling skill set. We are grateful for the chance to recognize just how far she has come. And although she is once again facing the same injury as last season, we have no doubt she will rise from this setback even stronger than before.
Maria Laucella
Most Valuable Player
This season’s MVP is a cheerleader who has been truly invaluable to the Varsity team for the past two years. Her strength, steady positivity, and quiet confidence make her a leader and a role model for every girl on the team. She is an all-around athlete, blending powerful stunting with elite tumbling, and the coaches consistently look to her to set the tone for her teammates. Even with her impressive skill set, she continues to push herself and her stunt group to grow, showing up to every practice ready to work. Watching her develop as an athlete and a young woman has been a true privilege
Dance Team
This fall season has been filled with growth, adaptability, and shared purpose from the Kellenberg Varsity Dance Team. Our focus from day one was to establish a culture of accountability, teamwork, and trust. The team began the year at NDA Dance Camp, where they learned challenging choreography, strengthened their technical foundation, and earned a bid to the 2026 NDA Nationals in Orlando, Florida. Within the weeks following that, the girls spent both late nights and early mornings in the studio to learn three new routines to take with us to competition this Winter season.
As the season went on, the team faced every challenge with determination. They learned to lean on one another, communicate more effectively, and find strength in shared goals. Practices became more than training, they became opportunities to build confidence, consistency, and character. Watching each dancer grow in both skill and self-assurance has been one of the most rewarding parts of the year.
This fall season was extra special in that we got to perform at football games back home on Matthew Field, and stand alongside Varsity cheerleading on the sidelines. We even worked together to perform a unified spirit performance at Homecoming.
Beyond the studio, the girls built strong relationships through team bonding activities that brought genuine closeness and support for one another. As coaches, we could not be more proud of the growth, maturity, and heart this team has displayed. This season has set the groundwork for an incredible journey ahead, and we are so grateful to have shared the start of it with such a special group.
Vivian Despagni
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
This season’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award goes to a dancer who has gone above and beyond in her dedication to the team. She has consistently shown up for herself and her teammates all season. She has taken her talent to the next level and has really immersed herself in what it means to be a dancer at the Varsity level. Her commitment extends beyond performance, it’s apparent in the way she supports teammates, takes feedback, and upholds the standards of the program each day. This year’s Most Committed Award goes to Vivian Despagni.
Kate Quigley
Most Improved Player
This season’s Most Improved Player Award goes to a dancer who has shown remarkable growth over the course of the season. Through consistent effort, focus, and her willingness to learn, she has made significant strides both technically and mentally. She is constantly looking for ways to improve herself, yet does so while also motivating her teammates. It has been so rewarding to see her confidence and abilities evolve, and her improvement has had such a positive impact on the team as a whole. This year’s Most Improved Player Award goes to Kate Quigley.
Mia D'Aleo
Most Valuable Player
This season’s Most Valuable Player Award goes to a dancer that has truly embraced all that it means to be part of the Kellenberg Varsity Dance Team. She has demonstrated outstanding leadership, skill, and reliability throughout the season. Her ability to balance leadership with humility has made her someone her teammates and coaches both look up to and trust. She has helped create an atmosphere of hard work, support, and confidence. She has shown so much determination and drive to improve herself, and we know she will continue to positively influence the program for seasons to come. This year’s Most Valuable Player Award goes to Mia D’Aleo.
Football
The 2025 Football Season saw the Varsity Firebirds take on the best of the best in New York State and beyond. This challenge was taken head on by the Firebirds who prepared with a focused mentality six days a week beginning three months ago on August 13th. 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. The team played in a number of highly exciting games including a thrilling win on homecoming in front of an unbelievable crowd. The Firebirds showed amazing resilience and perseverance week after week in the face of adversity and mounting injuries. Our playoff game this Saturday evening was truly inspiring to watch, after a focused week of practice the team laid it all on the line coming up just short on the final play. Everyone in attendance was exhilarated by the team’s inability to ever think the game was over, even with the slimmest of odds they played as hard as possible giving them an opportunity to win in the end. This game and our season of preparation no matter what the circumstances were 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.
Patrick Ciampa
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Patrick has a deep commitment both to making himself better and our football program better. During practices and workouts throughout the offseason and all through the season Patrick worked tirelessly to not only make himself better but to make his team better as well and took that responsibility very seriously. Whatever was needed from him and anything the coaches asked we knew the response we would get. Patrick attacked everyday and all of his opportunities with great enthusiasm, we are grateful that he has been a part of our program to help us raise our level.
Daniel Clarke
Most Improved Player
Daniel battled through multiple injuries as a junior and did not see much time throughout that season. It was clear however that Daniel had the ability to play and be an impact player on our team. Daniel worked tirelessly throughout the offseason in the weight room and at our summer practices. After all of this work he found himself in a starting position this season. Even when adversity hit this season and Daniel was hampered by an ankle injury he kept grinding and did not let up not missing a day and continued to improve his game each day.
Mark Chernaski
Most Valuable Player
Mark could have been a potential candidate for any award we are giving out this season. A selfless player who leads by example and puts his teammates needs before his own Mark is an outstanding example for every student-athlete in our school. Mark did whatever our team needed on Offense, Defense, and Special teams, he racked up 52 tackles as a free safety. In our final game he played one of the best final quarters we have ever seen from a Kellenberg player. From making a touchdown saving tackle to blocking a field goal to making catches to bring the team down into a position to tie the game it was nothing short of remarkable.
All League and Special Awards
Chris Biondi, Mark Chernaski, John Hastings, Daniel Licari
Girls Crew
This fall, the rowing team kicked off the season with a strong focus on land-based training, dedicating hours to strength, conditioning, and refining technique indoors. That commitment paid off, as we saw remarkable gains in speed and endurance, with personal records falling across the board as athletes pushed their limits and built a solid foundation. Once competition began, the team traveled across Northeast, racing on courses from Hartford to Philadelphia, testing their speed against tough regional opponents. The season culminated at the Head of the Fish Regatta in Saratoga, one of the largest races in the region with over 1600 entries. Our athletes faced elite programs from across the Northeast rising to the challenge with determination and excitement. With a successful fall behind them, the team now heads into winter training energized and motivated. Building on the momentum of the season, rowers are ready to hone their fitness and speed even further as they prepare for the fast-paced sprint races of the spring. The progress made this fall lays the groundwork for an exciting season ahead.
Amelia Mavrikis
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Amelia is receiving the Commitment Award in recognition of her outstanding dedication and consistency over her many years on the team. She has been a reliable and hardworking presence at every practice, always showing up ready to put in the effort. Her long-term commitment and steady enthusiasm have made her an integral member of the girls crew.
Anna Prince
Most Improved Player
Anna is receiving the Most Improved Award for the rowing team in recognition of her remarkable progress during her first season. She has made tremendous strides in both her speed on the erg and her technique on the water, quickly developing into a strong and capable rower. Her dedication, positive attitude, and willingness to learn have made a meaningful impact on the team. We’re enthusiastic about having her with us and excited to see how her rowing career continues to grow in the seasons ahead.
Veronica Beckenhaupt
Most Valuable Player
Veronica is receiving the Most Valuable Rower Award this season thanks to her outstanding consistency, enthusiasm, and dedication at every practice. She approaches each practice with full effort and focus, always pushing herself to refine her technique while maintaining a positive and determined attitude. Beyond her own development, Veronica is committed to helping her teammates grow, offering support, encouragement, and guidance to those around her. Her leadership, work ethic, and team-first mindset make her a standout member of the crew and a deserving recipient of this award.
Girls Cross Country
Years ago when we were dropping off a family member to the entrance of her beginning at a US Military Academy to face the challenge of eight weeks of “swab summer,” four years of challenging academy life, and ultimately a military career; she joined several hundred other cadets forming a line, facing the daunting challenges which they would soon meet beyond the academy gates. ALL but one. In an indelible image in my mind, one young woman, holding her luggage feet away from the entrance gate, made an abrupt UTurn, heading back to her puzzled parents. Wherever that woman ended up; that day, she could not meet and pursue the challenges facing her.
I think of that every year, because anyone can sign up for cross country, but it takes special people to go through the training, toe the starting line, and pursue the race without making a UTurn from the pain. The obstacles ahead for a cross country runner, the “Navy Seals of High School Athletics,” is as daunting as an academy life. The Kellenberg xc runner is up at school for a 6:30 am bus. A standard course they compete is a geographical anomaly on Long Island called Sunken Meadow St. Park. The place is a misnomer. There is nothing “sunken” about Sunken Meadow-it should be called “Elevated Meadow.” The runner takes off, traverses a bridge with the penetrating pitter-patter of hundreds of kid’s spike shoes deafening their ears. The runner proceeds to go up “Snake Hill.” There is a incredibly beautiful view half way up the hill on their left-but no cross country kid has ever noticed it because her heart is down to her knees. After a gut-wrenching apex climb, the runner faces a downhill so severe it makes the El Toro roller coaster ride seem flat. But the runner can’t lean back as it would jeopardize valuable seconds. The runner is six, seven, eight minutes into the race and along comes another misnomer- Cardiac Hill. This is really a misnamed mountain left over on the North Shore from the Pleistocene Ice Age. The only thing more elevated up this thing is your heart rate. 30yards from the top you think you’re there…BUT you’re not. You then make a right, facing another severe downhill, and soon you find out your coaches have lied when they told you, “it’s all flat after Cardiac.” There’s another hill awaiting you, and it might seem like mincemeat compared to Cardiac, but it doesn’t matter because at this point as your whole body is mincemeat. You rally, you fight to the finish, that is, if you are a Kellenberg cross country runner.
Our three All-League runners, all our seniors, E.J. Darcy, Molly Driscoll, Ally Ferrante, Rachel Nagengast, Ryleigh Nasso, Adriana Roberts, Caroline O’Doherty and all their teammates faced the music of what was staring at them on the starting line. Of course, none of these warriors ever even dare thought of making a UTurn there at Cardiac Mountain. Some will run, some will never run again, I know these young women will never make a UTurn in mountains of life they face ahead.
Brooke Corbett
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Brooke Corbett came to the cross country team as a proven distance runner from her successful rookie track season last Spring, but was a cross country neophyte. Nevertheless, this multi-sport athlete used her signature work ethic, to follow the program, train hard on the hard days, complete her necessary weekend long runs, and practice mental visual positive affirmation preparation for the challenging races of cross country. Her easy going, relaxed mien belies her tough competitive spirit. We are honored tonight to bestow the Bernie Ward Commitment Award to Brooke Corbett.
Sarah Zaikowski
Most Improved Player
This young woman, a junior, joined the team in her first season ever of cross country. She went from a 23 plus time for the standard 2.5 mile cross country course to an 18:00 clocking during championships. She is a pleasant, affable, hard-working young person and we are honored to bestow Sarah Zaikowski with this season’s M.I.P. Award.
Jessica Estrella
Most Valuable Player
This young woman for the past two seasons has been the lead harrier for the Kellenberg Girls’ XC team and consistently one of the top league runners. She is a driven athlete who follows a disciplined regimen of swimming, cycling and running to prepare for the rigors of cross country. Her development has been gradual and strong and the future will provide great rewards and accomplishments for this athlete or any athlete like Jessica Estrella who consistently works and focuses on being the best she can absolutely be.
All League Athletes & Special Awards
Brooke Corbett, Jessica Estrella, Hayden Nolan
Girls Soccer
What a season it’s been for our Girls Varsity Soccer Team! From the very first practice back in August, this incredible group of 24 strong, talented, and determined young women came together with one goal — to play for each other and create something special. And they did exactly that.
With an impressive 13–2 record, the team battled through every challenge, earning huge non-league wins over Massapequa, Oceanside, South Side, and Garden City, and key league victories against Sacred Heart, St. John the Baptist, and St. Anthony’s. Every game showed their heart, their hustle, and their unbreakable bond.
Although they fell just short in the finals against St. Anthony’s, nothing can take away what they accomplished this season — the memories, the laughter, the teamwork, and the magic they created together.
This team truly showed what it means to play with passion, pride, and love for the game. Congratulations to the Girls Varsity Soccer Team on an unforgettable season — you made us all so proud!
Brooke Segura
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
Commitment is more than showing up — it’s the daily choice to give your best, to push yourself, and to strive for improvement in every moment. Brooke exemplifies this standard. Among the team, she is known for her relentless work ethic and focused determination, evident in every practice and on every field. Brooke’s constant desire to better her game, not just for herself but for the success of the team, reflects her deep dedication to this program. Her work ethic and unwavering commitment make her an invaluable teammate and a true example of what it means to lead by example.
Erin Malley
Most Improved Player
Every accomplished athlete understands that true speed, strength, and skill are not forged in competition, but through consistent effort and commitment during practice. Throughout the season, Erin demonstrated remarkable growth in nearly every aspect of her game. Her dedication to improving her skills, coupled with her determination to push both herself and her teammates, set her apart.
When one of her teammates went down with an injury, Erin stepped up without hesitation, taking on a significant role and performing with confidence and composure beyond her years. Her willingness to embrace that challenge and contribute wherever the team needed her most exemplified her growth and maturity. Erin’s work ethic, resilience, and leadership have made her an outstanding player and a valued member of this program.
Mia Claro
Most Valuable Player
Mia Claro concludes an exceptional high school career as our Most Valuable Player, showing excellence, leadership, and consistency all season long. As a senior captain and four-year varsity starter, Mia has been a true cornerstone of this program, contributing 11 goals and 12 assists this year. Her outstanding play earned her the honor of League Offensive Player of the Year, a recognition that truly reflects the impact she’s had on the field.
Mia’s skill, determination, and leadership have lifted her teammates and the team as a whole. Her dedication to the sport and her commitment to always improving set an example that will inspire future players for years to come.
Next year, Mia will continue both her academic and athletic career at Hofstra University, and we are confident she will continue to achieve great success. We are so grateful for all she’s done for this program and wish her nothing but the best in the next chapter of her journey.
All League Athletes & Special Awards
Mia Claro, Olivia Gordon, Mia Hennelly, Cassidy Durnan, Emma Venus, Abby Woodruff
Mia Claro – Offensive Player of the Year
Tennis A
The Girls Varsity Tennis A Team had an incredible season marked by perseverance, growth, and teamwork. Throughout the regular season, the team demonstrated strong performances across the board but faced tough competition from St. John the Baptist, falling short in both of their regular-season matchups.
However, the players used those experiences as motivation heading into the playoffs. With renewed focus and determination, the team came together when it mattered most. In a thrilling championship match, they faced St. John the Baptist once again—and this time, they turned the tables. Through grit, strategy, and an unbreakable team spirit, the Girls Varsity Tennis A Team captured the championship title, proving their resilience and growth over the season.
Their victory was not only a testament to their athletic skill but also to their unwavering dedication and unity. Congratulations to the Girls Varsity Tennis A Team on an unforgettable, championship-winning season! Your coaches are incredibly proud of you.
Victoria Atkinson
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
This year’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award goes to Victoria Atkinson, whose dedication, perseverance, and positive attitude have made her an invaluable member of the Girls Varsity Tennis A Team. Throughout the season, Victoria consistently demonstrated an exceptional work ethic—whether at practice, during matches, or in supporting her teammates.
Even in challenging moments, she led by example, showing focus, resilience, and a genuine love for the game. Her willingness to put in extra effort and her steady encouragement of others helped elevate the entire team. Victoria’s commitment to personal growth and team success truly embodies the values of the program.
Congratulations to Victoria Atkinson on earning the Commitment Award and for being a shining example of determination, sportsmanship, and team spirit.
Olivia Paillere
Most Improved Player
This season’s Most Improved Award goes to Olivia Paillere, who showed tremendous growth and development from last year through this year. Olivia’s dedication to improving her technique, consistency, and confidence on the court was evident in every match. Her hard work at practice and determination to learn from every challenge led to remarkable progress over the season.
Olivia’s improvement not only strengthened her own game but also contributed greatly to the team’s overall success.
Isabella Gaylor
Most Valuable Player
The Most Valuable Player award goes to Isabella Gaylor, who delivered an exceptional season, going undefeated in every match she played. Isabella’s consistency, skill, and composure under pressure set her apart as a true leader on the court. Her determination and competitive spirit inspired her teammates and played a key role in the team’s championship success.
Isabella’s flawless record and unwavering dedication make her a standout athlete and a well-deserving MVP for the Girls Varsity Tennis A Team.
Tennis B
The Girls Varsity Tennis B Team had an unforgettable season this year. Not only did the team remain undefeated, but they also went on to win the championship for the first time in Varsity Tennis B history. Led by captains Jamie Conway and Kate Meier, this team was a dynamic mix of talented freshmen combined with players who stepped up to play new positions for the first time. Their determination and hard work were the driving forces behind this victorious season.
Tennis is a unique sport that tests not only physical skill but also mental strength. You can be more skilled than your opponent and still face challenges during a match. Throughout the season, these girls supported one another—cheering, encouraging, and motivating each other—with one shared goal in mind. Watching them come together and seeing their hard work pay off was truly inspiring.
As coaches, we are amazed each season by how much growth our players show in such a short time. This year, after the first round of matches, we sensed something special. Although there were some challenges along the way, the team’s resilience stood out. In past years, we’ve had incredibly talented athletes, but the championship win was always just out of our reach. In tennis, individual success isn’t enough—every teammate’s performance matters. The anticipation and excitement leading up to that final match were intense, especially after coming so close in previous seasons.
This year, however, everything came together for the team. With their skill, determination, and strong urge to win, this remarkable group of athletes secured the championship win on our home courts. It truly was amazing to watch.
Congratulations to each and every one of you! This season will undoubtedly go down in Kellenberg history. You embody the spirit, dedication, and excellence that make us proud to have you represent our school. As coaches, we could not be more proud of your accomplishments.
Thank you for making this a season we will never forget!
Kate Maier
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
The most committed player on a team is someone who shows up ready to play day after day without any complaints. It’s a player who exemplifies leadership and is a good role model for her teammates. Although this particular player is generally quiet, she is competitive, hard working and reliable. She is a great doubles partner and always had a positive attitude and great sense of humor. She did what she had to do to win and was never anxious.
She was fully committed to the tennis program over the years and was a pleasure to coach. Because of her disposition, she was also chosen to be a captain this year. This player is a kind-hearted, fun athlete who will be missed next year! This years Bernie Ward Commitment Award goes to Kate Maier. Congratulations Kate! We will miss you!
Maggie Kane
Most Improved Player
This season we had the highest number of freshmen and new-to-tennis athletes join our team. Everyone improves dramatically throughout the season, but none more than this particular player. Besides being a hard working and determined person, this athlete also had the sweetest disposition. In the championship match, she was the first person to run on the court and congratulate her teammates. This player would repeatedly ask for another try during warmups and always listened to her coaches when they offered advice to improve her game. Her skills at the net were a force to be reckoned with and she worked so hard to improve her groundstrokes and serves throughout the season. It was so exciting to see this athlete excel in a sport she was new to. Not only was she eager and willing to learn, she made a plan to win and succeeded! This year’s most improved player is Maggie Kane. Congratulations Maggie on a job more than well done!!
Julia Juszczak
Most Valuable Player
The most valuable player on a team is someone who is consistent, reliable and determined. Although this player put a lot of pressure on herself, she always found a way to win. It was obvious she practiced on her own time by her performance on the court. She had an incredible skill set and she loved constructive criticism. Perhaps the most notable trait was her kindness and compassion toward others. In matches, this player went up against the top players on our opposing teams. Even when she was down in a set, she never gave up. She put a smile on her face and did whatever it took to get the job done. The effort she put in throughout the season is what sets her apart from the rest. This years most valuable player goes to Julia Juszczak. Congratulations on an awesome season Julia!!
All League Athletes & Special Awards
Julia Juszczak, Kate Enright, Olivia Perrotta, Sofie Burke, Charlotte Stathis, Keira Seward, Jamie Conway, Kate Maier, Mary Xuereb
Volleyball
There is the vision and the reality.
And never do those two things match at the beginning of a season. Nor should they.
It is a coach’s job to look at the pieces he is given and figure out a way to make the best design possible. It’s a process that involves a good deal of trial and error, a large number of situations gone awry, and an infinite amount of adjustments along the way. But it is exactly that process that drives the coaches/educators sitting in this auditorium tonight. And when, after all those nights of agonizing over decisions, pondering line-ups, and breaking down film, the design matches your vision at the end of a season–well, there’s just no better feeling in the entire world!
The 2025 year was marked by incremental growth after each competition. From the loss in the finals to Plainedge at the opening tournament, to the victory SFP in their competition, to the quarterfinal loss to Ward Melville, to appearances in the finals against Half Hollow Hills West and Southside, these Firebirds continued to gain a greater understanding of their individual roles and our communal objective. We learned about the specious allure of the transitive property and how such comparisons rarely work. We learned to prize the ball. We learned to be consistent. We learned to shift our focus onto being clean. And most importantly, we learned to embrace and value the beauty of competing for every point we wanted to earn. The truth is that no one cares about your past history, and your win/loss record doesn’t put any points on the scoreboard. You simply have to immerse yourself in the moment. Seize the moment. Own the moment. And eventually make it yours.
In the latter half of our season, the tiles of the mosaic began to come together. The mid-October 5 set victory over SHA, the sweep over SA on Senior Night, the dominating performance over SD in the last game of the regular season–each of those encounters provided more clarity to the design. During the bye week, the picture continued to manifest itself in the hearts and minds of our players, until it was on full display in the semifinal victory and championship contest against the Friars. Only a group that is united by purpose could have come from behind, facing a 9-16 deficit, to steal the second game of the finals 28-26 and then cap it off with a 25-22 sweep for the title.
Vision and reality.
Sometimes the dream remains only vapors in the clouds, an idea that looks good in theory but never materializes in real time. But that was not the case with this amazing tribe of athletes. Trusting the coaching staff and each other, embracing a culture of accountability, faith, purpose, grit, and mudita, and executing vb skills to the best of their ability, the 2025 squad transformed their vision into a beautiful masterpiece, and they have life-long memories and the hardware to prove it!
Madeline Mulhall
Bernie Ward Commitment Award
When the cheer “Muuulll-hall” reverberates throughout the gym, it echoes with authenticity, excitement, and admiration. The sound simply confirms the fact that Madeline Mulhall is the epitome of a selfless teammate and a coach’s dream. She is devoted to every player on the roster, she celebrates their success–even at the expense of her own–and she pushes herself beyond all prior limitations.
Whether she is getting precious on-court playing time (as she did in our 4 game victory over SHA) or she is on the bench imparting valuable observations to the people on the floor, Madeline is “all in.” Last year in her role as team manager, she was an integral part of our overall success, and during the off-season from February to July, her fire kept everyone motivated in the weight room and in open gym competition. Her enthusiasm was contagious, genuine, and never predicated on dividends she would receive. She gave willingly with no expectation of payback. Her actions spoke of the highest level of dedication and altruism. She was motivated solely by love for the game and love for her teammates.
It gives us all chills to hear the sound of “Muuuulll-hall” shouted out one last time. Congratulations, Madeline Mulhall, for being the recipient of this year’s Coach’s Award.
Elizabeth O'Sullivan
Most Improved Player
One year ago, Elizabeth O’Sullivan was holding a clipboard and charting setting statistics from the sidelines. This year, she ran the Firebirds’ offense from the opening scrimmage to the State semifinal, growing more comfortable and more confident each time her ten fingers touched the ball.
Going from being on the JV B team to a 2025 leader in assists with 344 is an astonishing feat. And the major reason for that kind of leap was Elizabeth’s remarkable “work-horse” attitude. There was no dial to turn on Liz. She set the thermostat herself to read 110%, all the time. High heat and full speed were her calling cards. Whether she was acrobatically diving and pancaking balls defensively or tiptoeing to avoid the net on a tight pass, Liz expanded her skill set with every rep. Without her conviction and sense of determination, we would have been a ship without a rudder, battered and tossed upon the choppy sea of competition. With Liz at the helm, we were able to establish varied attack patterns and distribute the ball among a talented cadre of hitters. To assist our winning efforts, she was also a force behind the service stripe, tallying 29 aces and serving 21 straight points at the Smithtown Invitational Tournament against Jericho HS in a match where we never had cause to rotate.
Congratulations to our Most Improved Player for 2025, Elizabeth O’Sullivan.
Josephine Speciale
Most Valuable Player
(Details forthcoming.)
All League Athletes & Special Awards
Angela Bush, Riley James, Julianna Lucie, Josephine Speciale
AVCA Best and Brightest – Rebecca Braster, Angela Bush, Riley James, Elizabeth O’Sullivan, Josephine Speciale
AVCA Regional All-American – Julianna Lucie
NSCHSGAA Offensive Player of the Year – Angela Bush
MVP of the NSCHSGAA Championship Game – Julianna Lucie
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Bernie Ward Commitment Award
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Most Improved Player
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Most Valuable Player
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