Mike Saliba ‘25-Boys Varsity Hockey
Mike stepped on the ice with the boys varsity hockey team for the first time ever in an emergency role. NHL teams have ebugs – emergency backup goaltenders – and this week Michael Saliba filled that role for us. Michael skated with the varsity on Thursday stepping into a practice full of small games and competitions and battled hard in net, fighting for every save. On Saturday with an hour until game time he fielded the call that he was needed again and dressed for his first ever varsity game. His flexibility and willingness to help is very much appreciated by the entire team. Mike has shown, and will continue to show, that he is willing to help Williston in whatever way he can. He has provided an excellent example to the whole school of what a Williston and team first mentality truly looks like!
Miranda Calderone ’23- Girls Varsity Hockey
Miranda, a one-year senior has been a great addition to the girls varsity hockey team this season. She’s jumped right in and provides composure and consistency every time she’s on the ice. Miranda, one of the leaders of the Cats defensive group, makes good decisions with the puck and helps to jump start the offense. Miranda is relied on in all situations and has helped the team limit our opponent’s offense all season. Miranda comes to the rink ready to work every day, pushes herself and teammates to give their best and plays with confidence and composure. Her coaches have appreciated her leadership on the blue line and her contributions on and off the ice. The team looks forward to her continued contributions this winter.
Luke Ballard ’23- Boys Varsity Squash
Boys varsity squash earned its first win of the season behind the veteran leadership of captain Luke Ballard. At the #1 spot on the ladder, Luke plays the toughest competition in the league every match. His dedication, responsibility, and constant focus on the next day, the next match, the next goal is what makes Luke special. In many ways, this team is a reflection of Luke; its success is a direct result of his impact as a captain. The Wildcats will continue to lean on Luke for his leadership and strong play as they work through the rest of the season.
Melo N’kumbu ’26- Boys JV Basketball
Melo’s high-energy play is one of the reasons the JV boys basketball team is off to a 5-0 start. On the court his aggressive defense makes it difficult for opponents to get easy shots. In recent games against Deerfield Academy and the Berkshire School, he blocked several shots and generally made it tough for the other teams to score. Against the Berkshire School, he also showed that he could score as well, leading the way with 12 points. Overall, his defensive effort is contagious as his teammates try to match his intensity. Melo’s influence is one of the reasons that the Wildcats have been holding opponents to only about 30 points a game. Additionally, Melo makes his teammates better in practice when he brings the same high energy during drills and scrimmages. The Wildcats look forward to Melo’s continued contributions this winter.
Hazel Jacobs ‘ 25- Girls JV Basketball
Hazel has been a wonderful addition to the JV basketball program this season. The best way to describe her is that she has an incredibly competitive fire and unmatched grit. Hazel will do whatever it takes to win, but always with the best interest of the team in mind. She holds herself to high standards, always ready and willing to lead by example. Hazel is celebratory and even tempered after a win, but upset after a loss, always wanting to find ways that her and her teammates can improve. Her coaches know Hazel’s leadership will continue to grow throughout the season and are excited to see her fierceness on the court as one of the Wildcat point guards. Her coaches and teammates are lucky to have Hazel as part of the team!
Beckett Collins ’25-Boys Thirds Blue Basketball
Beckett has been a mainstay for the thirds blue boys basketball team this season. In Saturday’s revenge victory over rival Berkshire, Beckett led the way leading the scoring effort with 15 points. Beckett also was one of the team’s leading rebounders demonstrating a great “nose for the ball”. Beckett brings an enthusiastic passion for basketball each day. The team will continue to rely on him for steady leadership and consistent play as they face the teeth of their schedule!
Jackson Ayers ’25- Thirds Green
Jackson played a huge role in helping the thirds green boys team overcome a 19-0 halftime deficit against Eagle Hill. In the second half, Jackson came up with some clutch early baskets helping the team turn the tide and seize the game’s momentum. His steady play and “never give up” attitude proved to be instrumental in helping the team come all the way back winning in thrilling fashion 24-23!! The green team will continue to rely on Jackson’s leadership as they face their future worthy thirds opponents!