U. City High School 7401 Balson Ave. University City, MO 63130
NEWS MAGAZINE
U-Times October 2012 Volume 24, Issue 1
HOMECOMING ISSUE
INSIDE THIS ISSUE...
Homecoming week packed with festive events By Lily Lewis-Stump Co-Editor
After a week of theme days culminating with Spirit Day and the pep rally on Friday, the district-wide homecoming parade took place on Sat., Sept. 29. The day started in the Delmar Loop in the early morning. From there, the Disney themed parade continued into the high school football stadium. Spectators enjoyed the annual homecoming football game between University City and Rockwood Summit, which ended in a 49-12 loss. Later that night, students dressed their best for the homecoming dance. (see pages 4-7)
-Cell Phone Policy -New Teachers Page 2-3
The field hockey float (shown) took top honors at the parade with boys swim and boys soccer teams taking second and third places. PHOTO BY KAICEE WOODS
EDITORIAL
-Homecoming Dance -Spirit Week Page 4-5
-Homecoming Pep Rally -Marching Band -Homecoming Parade Page 6
-Seniors on JV -Field Hockey -Homecoming Football Game Page 7-8
Presidential election: experience vs. unknown By Carl Sechrist Staff Writer
Barack Obama, the Incumbent This presidential election is very similar to 2008, in that the choice of candidate will play a large role in setting the course of the nation for many years. Unlike ’08 though, one of the candidates has been presidentially proven. Incumbent Barack Obama has shown us over the past four years who he is and what he is capable of in office. This makes the choice for whom to elect a little bit easier. Although his first months in office were a bit shaky, Obama has shown the nation a decisiveness and direction that is an unknown with respect to his competitor Mitt Romney. A common complaint is that the incumbent has not accomplished what he had said he would accomplish. “To expect Barack Obama to have repaired, in four years, what took 30 years to undermine, is simply absurd,”
states an editorial in the Saint Louis PostDispatch. It is difficult to dispute that he has had a large amount of opposition in getting almost anything done. What has been able to be passed in the last couple of years, however, has had great benefits. Nobody should argue that “Obamacare” is a bad thing – for the middle class it has made medical bills more manageable and should continue that trend as more of it gets instated. “[Obama] approved the SEAL mission that killed Osama bin Laden,” says the Post-Dispatch, and that was no milk run. And, although the progress has been slower than many would like it to be, Obama has played a key role in reducing the unemployment rate and could, with more support, have a hand in reducing the national debt. Mitt Romney, the Opposition Unlike Obama, Mitt Romney is a presidential unknown. Everything that the nation does know about him as a politician and leader stems from what has been given out in campaign speeches and from his time as Governor of Massachusetts. The key question that potential voters need to ask themselves is “which Mitt Romney are we talking about?” says the Post-Dispatch. Romney has been known to change
his words and what he says he believes in on a frequent basis, often as a way to cater to his audience. That is one thing Obama absolutely cannot be accused of. Because of this “flip-flopping,” Romney does not even convey to his base what he may be liable to do if he makes it into the oval office. One week he states that “47 percent of Americans are moochers,” and the next week, after finding out that that did not go over well, that “that’s not what he believes,” according to the PostDispatch. The nation’s voters need to consider these facts when they step up to the voting booth on Nov. 6. Will you choose an incumbent who, despite his several shortcomings, has helped move the nation in the right direction after the downturn, or a presidential unknown who so far on the campaign trail has changed his platform on what seems like an almost weekly basis? If you are a senior, you could be one of them – choose wisely.
U-Times October 2012
OPINION 2
Banning bandwidth: foresight or folly? By Michael Johnson Editorial Writer
The directive couldn’t have been clearer: “All electronic devices are prohibited during school.” Research supporting this stance couldn’t be murkier, however. Other than data from surveys on cell phone use at school, almost no studies have addressed the impact of students’ use of electronics on academic performance. In general, policy options are to ban cell phones entirely, allow their use only during non-instructional times, or encourage using them as instructional tools. Research indicates that parents are often adamant supporters of their children being allowed to use
cell phones at school, but teachers overwhelmingly favor a ban. Ms. Nevils is no exception and states her case succinctly, “The classroom and the building are a professional learning environment and should be treated as such. There is no cause for students to make or receive phone calls in the classroom.” Personally, I think the ban is a logical consequence to last year’s more permissive policy. Being able to use phones and iPods during hall passing between classes and at lunch seemed fair and reasonable. Most students adhered to the rules, but this privilege was overtly abused by many. Not only did phones alert in class, but kids had the audacity to answer them and act like their gossip of the minute trumped the goal of the class. While the ban may feel like proper retribution to teachers and administrators, it is unlikely to be successful. According to Common Sense
Media, when cell phones are required to be turned off, stored, or banned, 66, 57, and 63 percent of teens, respectively, use their phones anyway. These statistics shouldn’t be surprising, considering that some teens talk or text while driving, when the stakes are much higher than any punishment a school disciplinarian could mete out. A report from Common Sense Media called for schools to redesign education to include digital literacy and citizenship. They want students not only to become skilled at accessing information, but also to learn responsibility for both the content of their communication and their actions when using any form of digital media. In addition to learning the social etiquette for use of cell phones and other electronic devices, students and teachers could take advantage of some of the other features these devices offer. Listening to positive and energetic music, for example, can improve
students’ performance – the so-called Mozart effect In another report from the New York Times, English language learners were able to move out of bilingual classes years sooner after studying lyrics and listening to English songs on iPods. Thus, it seems we are under utilizing the positive power of electronics that could improve vocabulary for SATs or aid foreign language instruction. Rather than become complacent and declare victory, our teachers and administrators need to rethink the ban on electronics. The solution should allow students to reap the benefits from academic engagement that use of electronics can foster. Deterring illicit use should involve high-tech interference or network monitoring, instruction on ethical use of digital media, harsh penalties for violations, and relinquishing devices for examinations. It sounds complicated but is more realistic than a head-in-the-sand ban.
STUDENTS SPEAK OUT
Is the new cell phone policy a positive change? Heavyn Jennings, freshman
Aahron Young, junior
Walter Deitzler, sophomore
“I think it’s good because otherwise cell phones would interrupt the learning environment, but I don’t think it’s fair that we can’t have our phones out at nonacademic time.”
“I think they have gone overboard with the cell phone policy. They won’t even let you have your cell phone outside your pocket, it’s unfair.”
“I like the new policy because it keeps people more focused on their work. it keeps people with face-to-face interraction instead of staring at a screen.”
Isaac Clark, sophomore
Adrian Collins, senior
Christen Allen, freshman
“This policy is overkill, last year it was fine when people had electronics in the hall, but it became a problem in class. If teachers enforced ‘no phones’ in class more, last year’s policy would be fine.”
“I hate the new policy, we should at least be able to use cell phones at lunch. I’ve been here three years and have always been able to use my phone. They can’t just change it my senior year when i’ve already adapted to it.”
“I like to listen to music before taking tests because it’s motivating. Now I can’t because they will take my phone or suspend me, it’s unreasonable!”
2012-2013 U-Times Staff Editors: Lily Lewis-Stump & Alice Mutrux Web Editor: Carl Sechrist Staff Writers/Photographers: Kayla Holmes Michael Johnson Emily Looby Alexander Phillips Adriana Smith Andrew White Reneise White Adviser Mrs. Mary Williams
Philosophy The newspaper’s primary obligation is to inform its readers about events in the school and community and of the issues of national or international importance which directly or indirectly affect the school population. The newspaper, while serving as a training ground for future journalists as part of the school curriculum, recognizes all rights and responsibilities under the First Amendment. While establishing U-Times as a public forum, student editors will apply
professional standards and ethics for decision making as they take on the responsibility for content and production of the newspaper. Inasmuch as the student staff encourages constructive criticism of any part of the newspaper, authority for content rests in the hands of the student members of the newspaper staff. Students will not publish material considered to be legally unprotected speech, or libel, obscenity, material disruption of the educational process, copyright infringement, or unwarranted
invasion of privacy. Contact Us We are located in Room 346 at University City High School, 7401 Balson Ave., University City, MO 63130. Our email address is marywilliams@ ucityschools.org. Tweet us @ UTimes2012 Policies Opinions expressed on the editorial page do not reflect the viewpoints of the school administration. All editorials (unsigned) represent a majority
opinion of the Editorial Board. Signed editorials, columns, editorial cartoons, and reviews reflect the views of the author and not necessarily those of the U-Times Editorial Board. The U-Times reserves the right to reject, edit, or shorten letters. Submit letters to Mrs. Mary Williams in Room 346, or to any U-Times staff member, or to marywilliams@ucityschools. org.
By Reneise White Staff Reporter/Photographer
ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL By Reneise White Staff Reporter/Photographer
Ms. Susan Hill, the new assistant principal for the junior class and came here to be a part of the pride that we call U. City. “I have always had a passion for U. City,” said Hill. “I worked in the Loop when I was younger and I know the school’s history.” Hill expects a lot out of the students and is not looking for disappointment. “My two expectations are respect and responsibility,” said Hill. “I feel as though all excellence falls under those two expectations.” With every student working within those two expectations, Hill hopes to leave a impact on U.City that raises academic achievement. “We have some eager-to-learn and talented kids here and I believe that this school can be the best school in the state of Missouri,” said Hill. Hill comes to U. City from Lindbergh where she taught social studies for nine years.
For the fifth time in eight years, a new principal has begun his reign at U. City. Mr. Michael Maclin has begun the process of making changes and improvements. “The most obvious thing that I have seen is the support given to teachers by the administration, said Ms. April Pezzola, social studies teacher. “I also believe that the prohibition of electronics has resulted in a calmer student body with less unnecessary drama. I also believe that the administration involvement in the community has had a direct impact on student behavior. And lastly, teachers are being treated as adults who have invested interest in real student success. I think that Maclin shows real leadership and concern about teacher morale while at the same
MEET
the new teachers By Reneise White Staff Reporter/Photographer
What do you teach? U.S. History, World History, and African American Experience. What did you do before and why U. City? I was a student teacher in Chicago public schools. I moved here and I substituted in for teachers and I used that to get my foot in the door Something interesting about me is... Our family goes up to Maine every summer Matthew Horn because we’ve had a cabin up there since the 1930’s and we use that as a family trip.
Julie Dee
What do you teach? I am the teacher for the work experience program. What did you do before this? I taught at McCluer High School for 22 years before coming here, . . I was a Community Based Vocational Instructor. Something interesting about me is... I have been teaching for 25 years and I still love it today as much as when I first started.
time being very clear about his expectations,” Maclin says he enjoys his time with students and staff. “UCHS is a great place,” said Maclin. “It also has its challenges just like other schools.” With 12 years of experience in education, Maclin most recently served as an assistant principal at Maplewood Richmond Heights High School. “This institution is a place that cultivates learning and I want to provide real world experiences while students are in high school,” said Maclin. With the help of our students and faculty, Maclin hopes to better our school, make memories, and create a great school environment for years to come. “The most memorable moment I’ve had was homecoming and to see the talents of our students,” said Maclin. “U. City is and should be a place where students are proud to attend.”
What do you teach? I teach algebra because it has been my specialty for years. I love geometry, though. What did you do before this? I was in college and I worked at a insurance company in customer service. Something interesting about you is... I am a U. City alumni, from Pershing Elementary School, to Brittany Woods, to Dana Robinson this high school. I have also lived in Nashville, Tennessee, Georgia, and Los Angeles, California.
What do you teach? I teach personal finance and general foods. What did you do before this? I used to host a radio show, giving me the nickname “Za.” I have traveled around the world to every continent except Australia and Antarctica. Why did you come to U. City? I live in U. City, I love U. City. Elizabeth Goodbrake Something interesting about you is.... I am a yoga teacher and I have studied it in India.
What do you teach? I teach algebra to the freshmen. Why did you come to U. City? My husband and I moved here from Utah. I worked at a previous school district last year that didn’t meet the students’ needs, so when I got here, I really liked the school’s pride. Something interesting about you is... My husband and I do foster care and shooting competitions. We are actually state champions, . Cathie Lauterborn
NEWS 3
MR. MACLIN, PRINCIPAL
U-Times October 2012
New administrators determined to restore pride
ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL By Christine Politte Guest Reporter
Mr. Malcolm Hill never expected that after 19 years working in education, his career would lead him to U. City. “I never thought I would leave Normandy,” said Hill. “…I was tenured.” But he did leave the district, where he was the athletic director and had previously taught high school social studies. After a time as assistant principal at Normandy, Hill left to become the athletic director in the Maplewood/Richmond Heights district. When the opportunity arose to come to U. City, Hill was so eager to start his new job that he began working even before his contract officially started. He says he enjoys many aspects of his job, but one stands out. “I like working with the students,” he said. In addition, Hill would like to acquire more technology for student use, but “the ultimate goal is to improve test scores.” PHOTOS BY RENEISE WHITE
What do you teach? I teach communication arts. I never thought I would be a high school teacher or a communications arts teacher because I didn’t like writing until later in life. What did you do before this? I taught for seven years at Normandy and 10 years out in the middle of nowhere. Something interesting about you is... Carol Krueger I just had two paintings on exhibit at the Missouri State Fair.
What do you teach? I teach career and family leadership, culinary arts and child development. I really enjoy the topics and subject material. What did you do before this? I taught in a suburb in Chicago for eight years. I heard good things about U. City and I wanted a change. Something interesting about you is... I judge dance competitions for the state of Illinois. Kylee Strohm
What do you teach? Actually, I teach other teachers, I am a math coach. So I work with teachers on incorporating the instructional strategies to students. What did you do before this? I was a math teacher at Pattonville High School. Something interesting about you is... I went to a major league umpire school to become a major league umpire in baseball when Mark Basi I was younger.
U-Times October 2012
Before this year’s dance, senior Mike Sarber and friends enjoyed dinner at Mi Ranchito and snapped some pictures at Forest Park. “It was nice to have all my friends together for the dance this year, especially with our busy schedules,” says Sarber. “We had a great homecoming together, definitely a memorable one.” PHOTO BY PRESTIGE PORTRAITS
Since it is their last year, seniors Brennon Baldwin, Damont Nash, Adrian Colins, Orlando Woolens and Antwone Miller tried to make homecoming memorable. “I knew I had to make my final homecoming enjoyable,” says senior Brennan Baldwin. “It was bittersweet, but everyone looked really nice and came with the intentions of acting on the theme of Classic Black and White.” PHOTO BY KAICEE WOODS PAGE DESIGN BY LILY LEWIS-STUMP/CAPTIONS BY LILY LEWIS-STUMP AND EMILY LOOBY
Tuesday: Disney Day
Wednesd
Senior Daphne Pastard as Jasmine from Disney’s Aladdin
Seniors George Brow Zobiah Hoskins, Troy
PHOTOS BY RENEISE WHITE & RADAZAIH WHITTINGTON
Monday: Super Hero Day
Spirit Week
HOMECOMING 4
Senior Rashod Richards, junior Darion Brown, and sophomore Zach Griffin. were satisfed with the music selection and had a great time at the dance. “I especially had fun when they played ‘Make it Bounce’ by JGE,” says Griffin. “I saw a lot of good looking people.” PHOTO BY KAICEE WOODS
Junior Claire Tscampel as Marvel’s Thor
After campaigning for a week, senior Asia Garrison was elected homeconing queen. “It was by far the best feeling ever to win,” says Garrison. “I felt very loved and everyone wanted to be around me.”
PHOTO BY MADELINE LEWIS
PHOTO BY LILY LEWIS-STUMP
Classic Black and White Homecoming Court Seniors Tierra Garrett and Taylr Chisum spent the evening getting ready for the dance and were disappointed when they arrived. “I spent about four hours getting ready,” says Garrett. “I assumed the lights were going to be off. I was expecting it to be more fun.” PHOTO BY KAICEE WOODS
Queen & King Asia Garrison & George Brown Princess & Prince Deshunai Barlowe & Montreal Andrews Sophomore Court Karen McKinney & Ronell Perkins Freshman Court Jabriee Mason & Amani Cooley
Despite the negative reaction pertaining to the lights, sophomore Chris Andry had a great time. “The homecoming was a sure hit, everyone wanted to be there,” says Andry. PHOTO BY LILY LEWIS-STUMP
SPOTLIGHT Preparing for this year’s dance was a breeze for sophomore Kanesha Jenkins. She spent a majority of the morning getting her hair done, as well as nails. At the game, many people mistook the outfit she was wearing as what she was wearing to the dance. “I was pretty much prepared for the dance,” sa Jenkins. “All that was left were the easy things like hair, nails, and makeup.”
day: Wacky Tacky
wn, Paris Billups, Camisha Luellen, y Jones and Jaml Plair.
PHOTO BY EMILY LOOBY
“This year’s dance was wild,” says sophomore Cameron Keys. “People were dancing so crazy that they were knocking other people down!” PHOTO BY KAICEE WOODS
Thursday: Twin Day
Seniors Abby Mutrux and Ursula Monaghan.
New rules were established for this year’s dance, especially related to the dress code.“I was concerned that my skirt was too short,” says senior Najh Wilson. “But I eventually was able to forget about and it enjoyed my last homecoming.” PHOTO BY MADELINE LEWIS
Friday: Black and Gold
Seniors Kaicee Woods and Grace Deitlzer
Homecoming 5
U-Times October 2012 After taking a break from the dance, junior Gianni Cook and his date relax in the cafeteria.
U-Times October 2012
HOMECOMING 6
Pep rally follows tradition; adds new twist The annual fall pep rally began and ended with a bang. The cheerleaders, golden girls, step team and marching band kicked the rally off with performances that stimulated excitement throughout the watching crowd. A new component this year was the dance-off with two students from each grade participating. This inspired other students to move onto the gym floor and showcase their own dancing skills, which brought the pep rally to a close. “The pep rally was a really nice get together for the students,” said junior Tamareka Lofton. “Everyone really showed appreciation for the class of 2013, when everyone came together at the end- that was the best part! Especially when Mr. Hill started to dance! ” -Lily Lewis Stump, Co-Editor
In the sophomore section, students cheer at the end for the spur-of-the-moment dance party. “The pep rally was really enthusiastic and wild,” says sophomore Malik Johnson. PHOTO BY LILY LEWIS-STUMP
The boys’ soccer and swim teams sit in the athlete’s bleachers as they wait for their sport to be called out to the floor. PHOTO BY MADELINE LEWIS
Junior Trista Thornton and the mascot take center stage in the pep rally dance off. “At first I was shocked...” says Thornton. “Then I saw everyone else dancing. I just thought, okay, go for it!“
The cheerleaders keep the momentum as they set up for a stunt. “It felt really good [to perform]...” says team captain Mariah Johnson, senior. “It was bittersweet, as it is my last time performing, but I love being captain and I love my girls.” PHOTO BY
PHOTO BY LILY LEWIS-STUMP
MADELINE LEWIS
Preparation puts band in spotlight By Alice Mutrux Co-Editor
As the crowds of football fans sit in the stands enjoying the homecoming game, the marching band anxiously awaits their halftime performance along with the golden girls and cheerleading teams. “Out of the parade, pep rally, and game, I love performing at the field show the best,” said sophomore Marquise Williams. “It gives us a chance to show off what we have spent a long time practicing.” For the last five weeks, the band has stretched, exercised, trained, and practiced two hours, three times a week to perfect
In preparation for the homecoming field show, the marching band’s woodwind and brass sections practice after school for five weeks before the event. PHOTOS BY ALICE MUTRUX
their routines for the homecoming celebrations. “You have to have great rhythm and coordination to be able to play, march, perform, and breathe at the same time,” said senior Kayla Pruitt. “We spend a lot of time working on this after school.” With about 15 new musicians this year, the band has grown to 34 people. These extra performers added a lot to the overall look and sound of the band. “We’re bigger, better, and more coordinated than last year,” said Williams. “The band is able to represent the school in a positive light; it’s a great experience that really shows school spirit.”
The band performs their half time routine during the football game. “At times band can be difficult, but it’s worth it when we perform really well and people love it,” says sophomore Rebekah Lyons.
The marching band sits in the bleachers awaiting their time to perform. “Being surrounded by all my fellow students always makes the pep rally more exciting and fun,” says sophomore trombone player Marquise Williams. PHOTO BY LILY LEWIS-STUMP
Disney takes to the streets
By Emily Looby Staff Writer Students across the district gathered the morning of Saturday, September 29 for the annual homecoming parade. The theme, “Disney on Delmar,” inspired the participants to create floats that depicted Disney characters, movies, and television shows. Throughout the week prior to homecoming, various teams and organizations built floats and decorations. The field hockey team continued their annual tradition of creating a homecoming float that accomplished their goal of winning the first place prize. “When you wish upon a star” was the theme behind the float, complete with a large pink castle with stars. This year, the robotics team fashioned their float with the robot they built for last year’s national robotics competition. The robotics team first plan was to make our float a homage to the Disney Pixar’s “Wall-e,” said sophomore robotics team member Henry Braeske. “After some deliberation, we decided to show off our robot instead.” Disney characters and movies took over Delmar as well as the imagination, challenging the creativity of the participants. “It being my junior year I feel like the parade was one of the best we have had,” said junior field hockey player Molly Paterson. “The theme this year challenged everyone to think creatively and all the floats turned out amazing.”
One would think seniors dominate varsity teams, but at U. City, there are several cases where seniors play on JV teams. Field hockey and girls volleyball are two fall teams with rosters that include seniors on JV. Athletes in other sports don’t believe it actually happens. “I didn’t think it was possible,” said senior Jeffrey Standifer who plays football and plans to go out for tennis. According to athletic director Pat Oligschlaeger, it not against MSHSAA:(:Missouri State High School Activities Association) rules for seniors to play on JV teams, but “it is advised to let opposing teams know you have them.” A student really has to want to play
the game to be a senior in this situation. Sometimes it is because a student did not play freshmen, sophomore or junior years and has decided to take up the game again—or for the first time. College applications are one factor in the mix. “I’m trying different kinds of sports,” senior Candice Robinson who plays JV volleyball. “It looks good on college applications.” Most of them would happily play on varsity if offered the chance. When senior Aubrey Williams got the chance to step up in field hockey, she experienced mixed emotions. “It was kind of scary, but I was glad I could help,” Williams said. The opportunity to swing up to varsity in a game is always present and on the
minds of the seniors. In field hockey, of the 13 seniors on the team, five of the players are listed on the roster as varsity/ JV swing players while two are listed as full-time JV players. Even though Robinson thinks it looks good on college applications, she has a few problems with the concept of playing with underclassmen. “You get talked down to like a kid,” said Robinson. “I feel unappreciated and dishonored. I work just as hard and deserve it.” Individual sports, such as cross country, tennis, and track and golf, more commonly have seniors on JV teams. It is apparent that these studentathletes want to play the game and are willing to make sacrifices in order to be part of a team.
Senior Candice Robinson serves the ball. “JV is not that bad,” says Robinson. “I am kind of disappointed about being on JV, but I still love the team, we’re like a family.” PHOTO BY OLIVIA FAZIO
Seniors take lead in field hockey
SUCCESS IN NUMBERS
Even injured athletes are eager and absorbed in the practices. Kaicee The field hockey team, unlike Woods, senior, still many clubs and groups, is far recovering from a knee from obscure or unknown. Their injury, sat in the stands Homecoming float dominates and watched raptly as her the parade every year, thanks to teammates continued to the help of handyman Derrick work on their formations. Coley, father of a former field Eventually, she suited up hockey player. Several different and headed back into field hockey T-shirts can be seen the fray. Woods is one around the school, most recently of the seniors who has the gray model emblazoned with been playing since seventh the slogan “U Win, U Lose.” grade. Senior Allie Hines plays varsity as left forward Coach Sheppard admits, “I’m a “We all just got better during practice. PHOTO BY MAR’TEZ REED big fan of advertising.” and became better [over In fact, so many girls try out the years],” said Woods. that the coach is forced to make Near the end of cuts. The current field hockey team has 31 players practice, the team gathered round to discuss any on varsity and junior varsity. There are players from sorts of problematic patterns to work on. Most every grade, including 13 seniors, who provide dialogue was between Coach Sheppard and her experience, skill, and leadership. experienced seniors. “They’re a very experienced group,” said Coach “We need quicker releases,” said Camisha Sheppard. “Most of these girls have been playing Luellen, senior. Addy Adewale, junior, suggested since seventh grade. That’s about six seasons. They’re the team needed better communication on the field very passionate and dedicated… there’s talent, lots of and sounder decision making in crisis. “If we’re not talent, in the class of 2013.” thinking about it, we’re not going to do it right,” At a recent practice, the girls completed a explained Ursula Monaghan, another senior. lengthy series of drills as a warm-up. Subsequently, Of course, there is an obvious problem with groups of three to four athletes worked on passing having such a strong senior team: what happens next and dribbling the ball across increasing distances year? (eight meters, then 12 meters, then 20) and various “The con side is, of course, that when they leave different formations. They also practiced their goal there will be quite a vacuum,” said Coach Sheppard. shots, aiming for the corners of the box, while Coach “That’s why it’s important to work on building up the Sheppard personally trained the goalies. juniors and sophomores, and freshmen.” The overall atmosphere on the field hockey team Will the field hockey team be able to bounce is one of great support. Many players have nothing back next year? but respect for their teammates and speak very “They’re getting really skilled,” said Woods. highly of them. In practice, athletes are dedicated to “They’re going to be good, they’re really improving.” helping each other perfect their strategies. When one Coach Sheppard agrees. “I have faith in our girl failed a goal shot and proclaimed she couldn’t kids’ work ethic, and I also believe in the system “get it right,” the immediate response from her I’ve created … Yes, it’ll be an adjustment, but I don’t teammate was, “Yes, you can!” think it’ll be the end of the world.”
By Kayla Holmes Staff Writer
By Andrew White Staff Writer
If the football team quintupled its roster, there would be 150 players on the team. When the swim team more than quintupled its size this year, they had 11 swimmers, which creates several competitive advantages. “We’ve been able to compete in relays at every meet, including some meets with up to five relays,” said Coach Mary Lhotak. Lhotak and returning swimmer Carson Brandt expect a better outcome of the season due to the increase in swimmers and opportunities. “I think with a bigger team we’ll do better,” said Brandt. “There’s always room for improvement, we improve every day. The fact that we have so many swimmers helps and we’re able to do relays this year.” Recently, the team hasn’t been able to practice due to a broken pipe in the pool. Some swimmers are concerned that the lack of practice will cause them to be unprepared for the conference meet this year. Before their most recent meet they hadn’t had any practice for a week, which did not help. However, one swimmer likes to think on the bright side. “Well, we missed a week of practice so we’re kind of off,” said Brandt. We’re not used to practicing, It wasn’t a benefit because we lost practice and we could’ve been swimming, but for schoolwork it was more beneficial because I had time to work on homework.”
As Terrione Young, junior, dives off the block before swimming the 500 freestyle, he concentrates on perfecting his dive. “The dive is one of the most important parts of swimming an event,” says Young. “If I mess up the dive I’m usually not successful in the race.” PHOTO BY KAYLA HOLMES
SPORTS 7
By Adriana Smith Staff writter
U-Times October 2012
Select senior athletes stick to junior varsity
U-Times October 2012
HOMECOMING 8
Lions start strong; lose momentum in second half By Alexander Phillips Staff Writer
Fans of U. City were not disappointed with the start of the homecoming game, but they might have felt a little differently by the end. The Lions scored on the opening drive with a run by David Carmicheal, senior, but missed the field goal. The home crowd roared with excitement, while the players cheered on their teammates. The excitement was
curtaled when Summit answered back by scoring and making the field goal. In the second quarter, the Lions fell behind even more when the Falcons scored less than firve minutes into the quarter, making the extra point with a field goal. The Lions regained their momentum when quarterback George Brown, senior, ran it in from the 20-yard line to score. “I felt like we needed it and
Coach had said to make a play,” said Brown. The Lions were only two points down when Summit scored with 23 seconds left until halftime. They did not fail to make the extra point this time, either. In the second half, Summit totally took over the game and ended up winning 49-12. “When Summit got so far ahead, the team folded,” said Brown.
The Lions run side to side with the Falcons, which resulted in an interception. Sophomore Ronnel Perkins jumps over the defender, plucks the ball from the him and stays in bounds. PHOTO BY ALEXANDER PHILLIPS
The Lions are prepared to blitz while keeping an eye out to stop the flight of the Falcons with a 4-3 defense, which is one of the defenses commonly used by the Lions, according to Brown. PHOTO BY ALEXANDER PHILLIPS
Head Coach Carl Reed rallying his players while offensive cordinator Coach Reggie offers words of encouragement. According to George Brown, Reed usually reminds the players to “stay on your toes and watch out for the pass.” PHOTO BY ALEXANDER PHILLIPS
Senior Matthew Looby, also a varsity soccer player, get the punt blocked after the Lions are stopped on a three and out drive. PHOTO BY MAR’TEZ REED
Senior Rashod Richards, cornerback, goes for an interception as the opposing quarterback drops back for a pass. PHOTO BY ALEXANDER PHILLIPS
U. City charges at the Falcons after catching an interception running the ball from several yards back. PHOTO BY ALEXANDER PHILLIPS