Cheering a season of wins, growth, and sportsmanship
OAc Amenia began the day on Tuesday, November 10, with a pep rally to celebrate its fall sports teams. Students and staff gathered first thing in the morning to recognize the athletes for their hard work and successful results this season.
Coaches look back on the season
Athletic Director Mr. Cavouto and the coaches took turns sharing their experiences from the season and the growth they saw in their athletes.
Cross country coach Mr. Murphy said he was amazed by how much his runners improved. He was especially proud that they faced difficult workouts and races without grumbling.
Volleyball coach Mr. Andrew Leaman said the girls did a great job this season. He recognized the servers for playing exceptionally well and noted how much the freshmen have grown. Players who were just learning the game are now playing with real confidence.
The soccer coach was not able to attend, so Mr. Cavouto spoke for the team. He recalled games where the team scored so often that if you looked away for a moment, you might miss another goal from Alex Ham.
A season to remember
The results gave everyone plenty to cheer about:
- Girls’ cross country won the HVAL Championship in its very first season. The team scored 30 points, finishing well ahead of EF Academy, Oakwood Friends, and Woodstock Day, with four runners in the top eight.
- Boys’ cross country placed fourth at the HVAL Championship, led by junior Thaddeus Ha’s fourth-place finish.
- Boys’ soccer finished the regular season 8-4, closing with a 4-2 win over Forman.
- Girls’ volleyball went 7-3 in the regular season and ended with a 3-0 sweep of Storm King. The team only began playing scrimmages last winter.
The season isn’t over yet. Boys’ soccer hosts Oakwood Friends in the semifinal on Wednesday, November 11, and girls’ volleyball faces Marvelwood in the playoffs the same day. Both teams could play for a championship on Saturday, November 14.
Playing for a greater purpose
P. John Vivian closed the rally by reminding everyone what matters most. He said the students showed great sportsmanship throughout the season, and that this matters more than any win or trophy. As disciples of Jesus Christ, he said, our athletes should show others an example that God would be proud of. That, he said, should be the first priority whenever we play.
Congratulations to all of our fall athletes and coaches on a great season. Go Olivet!
