Alex Latkovski ’21- Boys Varsity Tennis
Alex has quietly put together a nice start to the season for the boys varsity tennis team. A newcomer to the team, he quickly ascended the ladder. More importantly, he proved himself a team first player- attentively listening, eagerly participating in team activities, actively seeking ways to improve his game, and relishing opportunities for competition. Over the last two weeks, he has compiled a 2-2 record, notching straight set wins versus WMA and Suffield. His versatility is evident in his successful doubles play, as he was a part of a dominant 8-2 doubles victory vs. Suffield, and in the way he stepped in for an injured teammate in a comeback that fell just short in a super tie-break this past Saturday against Cushing. Alex’s addition to the team has been seamless and refreshing. His team will continue to rely on his competitive spirit and strong play as they move through the rest of the season.
Hannah Cannizzo ‘21 – Girls Varsity Ultimate
Hannah has been an important piece in the success of the girls varsity ultimate team this season. In Williston’s 7-0 win over Deerfield, Hannah stepped up with several excellent receptions including scoring the last two goals to seal off the game. She also contributed a very long pull that allowed the defense to set up deep in DA territory. Hannah manages to throw herself around the field with style and is the first one to hit the ground to catch the disc, proving her intense desire to be competitive! This competitive fire provides an excellent example for all her teammates. Hannah’s coaches and teammates will need her drive and leadership through example as they move through the rest of the spring.
Alex Hall-Witt ’23- Boys Varsity Ultimate
Alex has tormented opposing defenses all season with his accurate, creative throws for the boys varsity ultimate team. He has thrown 21 of the team’s 56 goals this year, as well as many deep throws that led to others throwing a short goal. Three of the teams four games have been against zone defenses in the wind and Alex has been the primary handler, breaking the cup, zipping quick throws through the middle, or dropping precision curving passes over the top. In practice, he forces teammates to work hard to stop him. Alex’s great field sense has helped the rest of the team improve as they learn how to use the space. His coaches appreciate his work ethic this spring and they look forward to watching his continued growth as a player as they move through the final weeks of the season.
Emily Zambarano ‘21- Girls Varsity Lacrosse
Emily is an unsung star for the girls varsity lacrosse program. Whether she is winning the draw for our team with her tremendous play on the circle, clearing the ball using her outstanding speed and field vision, or encouraging teammates, she plays a critical role for the Wildcats. In Friday’s win over Cushing, Emily was dominant on the circle, scooping numerous ground balls and transitioning the ball to the offensive end. She added lockdown defense and gritty play to set the tone for the Wildcats. The team will continue to rely on Emily for her inspiring play and tremendous leadership as they head into the final weeks of the season.
Riley Van Son ’23- Boys JV Lacrosse
Riley has been a critical part of the boys JV lacrosse team this season. He has provided a leadership role each day as he has been impressive in practice, pushing his teammates to do the same. This past weekend in the Wildcats’ only game so far this season, he contributed to an incredible five of the team’s six goals on the day. The team relies on Riley heavily and he has come through in terms of executing in practice and raising the level of his teammates. His coaches and teammates appreciate his efforts on the turf and they will continue to lean on Riley for his inspiring play and tough competitive mentality as they move through the rest of the season.
Irina Malladi ‘21- Girls Varsity Golf
Irina has been an impact player for the Wildcats this season. She led the girls varsity golf team’s efforts on Saturday at Wintonbury Hills GC in Connecticut, shooting a 45 on a blustery day. Irina played very well and narrowly lost her match 1 up on the ninth hole. Irina inspires her teammates with her steady play and calm demeanor. The Cats will continue to look towards Irina as they move through the rest of their season.
Molly Kinstle ’21- Girls Varsity Water Polo
Molly has been an amazing teammate this spring, leading the water polo team both in and out of the water. As the swim off specialist, Molly can be counted on to gain important possessions at the start of each quarter. Her strong game sense and tenacity on defense lead to numerous steals that give her teammates quick fast breaks. Offensively Molly has developed an accurate outside shot that enables the team’s power play to be effective. Outside of the pool, Molly is counted on by all players and the coaches for her steady approach and thoughtful advice. She is a true leader and the Wildcats will continue to rely on her for the remainder of the season!
Zac Landon ’22- Boys Varsity Lacrosse
Zac has provided a strong presence on the field for the boys varsity lacrosse team this season. His consistent play continued again this weekend as he tallied 8 goals and 4 assists in games over Cushing. Zac has worked tremendously hard all season to make not only himself but his teammates better, providing an example of his team first mentality. The Wildcats will continue to look towards Zac for his inspiring play and dedication to the team.
Caroline Aufiero ’24- Varsity Softball
Caroline has had a fantastic season for the varsity softball team. She was the Wildcats most consistent hitter over the weekend going 4/6 against a tough Cushing team. Caroline’s attitude is always positive, bringing laughter and smiles to practice every single day. Her play on the field has been stellar. Playing both 2nd base and center field, Caroline is determined and is therefore a top-notch competitor. Caroline seems to improve every practice and every inning of each game. Her teammates and coaches love her winning spirit, drive, and grit!
Aashish Suresh ‘22 – Varsity Baseball
Aashish had a great week for the varsity baseball team. In the Wildcats’ two wins over Cushing Academy this past weekend, Aashish was perfect at the plate going 2-2. All season, Aashish has been the consummate teammate and brings positive energy to every drill in every practice. His consistent work ethic has helped him improve in every aspect of the game this season. Coach Sawyer and Coach Beaton remark daily about what a pleasure it is to coach Aashish and the example he provides has left a lasting impact on his teammates!
Tomi Akisanya ’21- Girls Track and Field
Tomi has been a consistent point scorer for girls track and field this season. On Saturday, she finished the day with two strong second-place showings in the shot put and the javelin. In the shot, Tomi’s first throw of 31’8″ was a 3-inch improvement on her personal best and cemented her fourth place on the Top-10 performance list. With two meets left, she is looking to improve even a bit more. Tomi’s leadership among the throwers has been instrumental in keeping that group motivated and progressing. Her sense of humor and positive attitude strike a nice balance between working hard and making sure everyone is having fun. Her coaches truly appreciate all the good work she has put in this season!
JiHee Liu ’21- Boys Track and Field
JiHee has had a phenomenal season on the track for the boy’s team this season. On Saturday, he had a strong day against Cushing, coming away with two individual wins in the long jump and 300 hurdles, plus a blistering anchor leg on the 4×400 to hold off a charging Cushing runner. In the hurdles, JiHee lowered his time in the 300 hurdles by nearly a second, which cemented his sixth place on the Top-10 performance list and putting him within striking distance of moving even higher. JiHee leads in practice and in meets by example. His hard work and focus on the small details, plus his consistent effort serve as great example for his peers. Next year, the team will miss JiHee’s athleticism and his leadership and his teammates and coaches so appreciate all of the great work he has put in this year.
Chris Luedeke ’22- Boys Varsity Golf
Chris Luedeke is a talented golfer and an important piece to the puzzle for the boys varsity golf team. However, until recently his scores were not a reflection of his ability. His coaches have been most impressed with his patient determination to work hard on his game in practices and matches. Chris never gave up and channeled any frustration he felt into positive motivation. His self-confidence was finally rewarded in our last match at Cushing when Chris posted a 39 which was by far his best 9 hole score. His excellent play helped the team win the match and record their best score of the season. Chris will play a big role in how well the team competes in their final two events. Chris’s growth mindset and leadership through example has left a lasting impact on his teammates and exemplifies all that he is capable of!
Shiv Patel ‘25 – JV Baseball
Shiv has been a great addition to the Wildcats this season. He has quietly strived to improve in all areas of his game. Most recently, he opened the game with 3 innings of shutout ball and had 2 strikeouts and only a single walk from the mound. This strong start to the game gave the JV Wildcats the boost they needed to complete a fine game to get the win. This was a fine job by the whole team, spearheaded by Shiv’s gem of a performance. The team appreciates Shiv’s hard work and positive attitude!
Erin O’Keefe ’22- Girls JV Lacrosse
As one of the few girls JV lacrosse returners, Erin has taken on a natural leadership role within the team. She knows the game, knows how and when to help others, and leads by example. It is wonderful to have her work ethic as the daily standard that is set for the younger players. Erin’s positivity and efforts have been pivotal in the direction of the season and her coaches and teammates appreciate her dedication to the squad.
Alan Rodal ‘22– Boys JV Tennis
Alan has provided a great example, a desire to improve and an overall competitiveness to the boys jv tennis team this season. As an all-around player, Alan’s desire to condition, play well and support his teammates is noticeable. Few take warm-ups more seriously than Alan and his leadership through example is a big part of why the team’s culture is the way it is. His teammates and coaches look forward to watching his continued growth on the courts this season.