And they called it puppy love - Look inside our February 2019 Issue for THON information, Hot Couples, D1 Commits, North Hills School District
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FEBRUARY 2019 Issue
The Arrowhead
And they called it puppy love...
Look inside our February 2019 Issue for THON
information, Hot Couples, D1 Commits,
and much more to spice up your Valentine’s Day!
page 1The Arrowhead
OPINION
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR: ARROWHEAD STAFF
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
SHOW SOME LOVE THIS VALENTINE’S DAY! Gianna DiPaolo
BY GIANNA DIPAOLO COPY EDITOR
As the most romantic day of the year
approaches, remember to spread the love a Jess Kappeler
little more this year. This Valentine’s Day,
make sure that you show yourself or that PHOTO EDITOR
special someone as much love as you can Charlie Knox
because a little goes a long way. This goes for
SPORTS EDITORS
everyone: singles, complicated, or taken.
Sean Nolan, Joe Ryan, Joey Veneziale
For the single people this Valentine’s Day,
treat yourself today because you deserve it. Go NEWS/WEBSITE EDITOR
buy the cute heart-shaped chocolates and roses Sophia Yacoviello
for yourself and take a nice, relaxing bath
because you don’t need to love anyone but OPINIONS EDITOR
yourself. Jake Yencik
For the people in a “complicated”
relationship right now, take a breather and put LAYOUT EDITOR
the complications aside. Show that trouble- Rebekah Froehlich
some person a little bit of love, and see where
it goes. Keep in mind it’s a new year, so a lot ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
can blossom with the time remaining! Darby Vojtko
And finally, for the lucky ones with a lover, show them as much love as you can
because it’s your day to prosper. Show your girlfriend or boyfriend how important they SEASONAL ENTERTAINMENT
are to you. Take them out to dinner or buy them a special little present. If you and your EDITOR
significant other aren’t as cliche, a simple compliment can go very far. My best advice, Sarah Hershberger
make sure to say the “L” word a little extra today.
PUBLIC RELATIONS
Whether you’re single, complicated, or taken, the point is to show a little love
Nina Topich
today. As little or as big, everything counts. With that, I hope everyone has an
unforgettable Valentine’s Day!
SPONSOR
All the love, Mrs. Long
Gianna DiPaolo
Special Thanks To:
Dr. Williams & The Copy Center
FOLLOW US ON For the latest news, The opinions expressed in this
check out our issue do not necessarily reflect that of
SOCIAL MEDIA! website:
the entire North Hills School District or
ARROWHEAD staff.
www.nharrowhead.com Have an opinion to share? Send us an
@NHARROWHEAD email: nharrowhead@gmail.com
page 2FEBRUARY 2019 Issue
OPINION
CUTTING TO THE CHASE
BY JAKE YENCIK
told CNN he was trying to “use the drum, use
our prayer, and bring a balance, bring a calm-
This is a clear display of white
supremacy and racism in its most obvious
On January 18, 2019, students from ing to the situation,” which is obviously exactly form. When looking at the history of
Covington Catholic School attended a “March what happens in the video. Rather than respect Covington Catholic, its conservative
for Life” anti-abortion rally in front of the his culture and let the situation diffuse as it beliefs shift into straight up hate and
Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. At the should have, the Covington Catholic School disrespect. Valedictorian Christian Bales, an
same time, the Indigenous Peoples March took boys started directly taunting Nathan Phil- openly gay student, told NBC News he was
place in a nearby location. Nathan Phillips, a refused permission to give his graduation
Native American, U.S. Veteran, and attendee at speech. There is no explanation for this other
the Indigenous Peoples March ended up at the
than the school’s homophobia, especially
center of intense political controversy shortly
considering Christian’s impressive academic
after. How the following events unfolded
achievements at Covington Catholic
is still not 100% clear, but a combination of
eyewitness accounts and video evidence have School. The situation at the Indigenous
helped to piece together a story of what exactly Peoples March is yet another example of the
took place. growing divide between American citizens
During the March for Life rally, the due to racism. The Indigenous Peoples
Covington boys found themselves in a dispute March is meant to honor Indigenous People
with a group known as the Black Hebrew CNN.com because they were here before us. White
Israelites, which can be confirmed by video lips. In the video now seen by millions through Europeans arrived here, took their land,
evidence. Nathan Phillips got involved in this, social media, the group of Catholic school kids commited genocide, and saw no issue with
which he described as an “ugly situation,” as can be seen sporting MAGA hats, mocking it. Now hundreds of years later during a
he decided to try to keep peace between the the Native American prayers, yelling “build march meant to honor those people, this
two groups and prevent a larger fight unfold- the wall!” and more. Do they understand that disgusting display of hatred takes place.
ing. This is when the cameras start rolling and NATIVE Americans aren’t immigrants?
BUST DOWN
where the viral videos fit into context. Phillips
Users on Twitter and Instagram have been
quick to make fun of Blueface and base memes
off of him, as they do with many new rising
artists. Some of these memes (which can be,
BY JAKE YENCIK songs, specifically the track “Respect My admittedly, very funny) say things like “he
Crypn.” Many assume that the name ‘Blue- sounds like Courage the Cowardly Dog” or
A new face in rap music has been getting
face” is related to blue being the color of the “he’s playing hide and seek with the beat.” As
tons of attention from listeners across the
Crips, but he stated himself in an interview fun as it might be to poke fun of his unortho-
world, and this artist is Jonathan Porter, AKA
with Genius that this is not the reasoning for dox rhyming style, it’s no secret that there is
Blueface. Since Blueface released his track
his name. still very much praise for his music. His most
“Respect My Crypn” in October of 2018, he’s
After listening to his songs, it’s easy to see popular track “Bleed it” has 30 million You-
become a viral internet meme and received
why Blueface receives so much criticism. His Tube views and 505,000 likes. Whether you
very much attention. Although a lot of this
flow is very unorthodox and noticeably differ- like him or not, Blueface is here to stay, and
attention comes in the form of being made
ent from his soundcloud rap counterparts. He as far as we know, he could end up setting the
fun of across many social media platforms,
likes to add in syllables that seemingly tone for the future of rap music.
much of this attention is also praise. Some
wouldn’t fit and this leads to him fluctuating
bigger names in hip hop music who have even
his words with the beat, as well as fitting in
expressed a genuine liking for Blueface’s
his common adlibs “yeah ight” and “blueface
music are Drake, Quavo, Kendrick Lamar, and
baby.” He has a signature high-pitched voice
Ice Cube. Blueface has also recently signed to
which changes pitch so dramatically that it
Birdman’s record label, Cash Money West.
sounds like his voice is almost cracking. Many
Before the face tats and internet fame,
could mistake this unique flow and style for
Blueface was the star quarterback of his high
a lack of ability, but Blueface has stated in
school football team. His football highlights
interviews that he’s aware of how “weird” his
can still be found with a YouTube search, as
rapping might sound to a new listener. It’s
well as team photos showing a young Blueface
certainly a bit of an acquired taste. Hip hop
before he got any tattoos. He graduated in
icon Ice Cube from N.W.A. shared his thoughts
2015 from Golden Valley High School in Santa
in a reaction video to a Blueface song. Upon
Clarita, CA. At some point during these years
hearing the Blueface flow, Ice Cube stated, “It’s
of his life, Blueface became affiliated with the
not off-beat; he’s falling off and falling back
Crips gang in California. His gang affiliation
on, you know. It’s one of those styles that’s an
has become a common topic of many of his
acquired taste.” XXL Magazine page 3The Arrowhead
OPINION
Valentine's Day: A Rant Valentine's Day:
An Alternative Rant
BY CHIARA OCASIO BY JESS KAPPELER
Valentine’s Day is a day full We live in the era where you can’t go the first 13 days of February without seeing
of love. You either love it or “repost if you’re spending Valentine’s Day alone :,(” on the Snapchat story of every
hate it. Let’s be real, most girls single 13-year-old you know (and those much older than 13, unfortunately). And
probably have unrealistic ex- besides the fact that your need to project your singleness is probably a huge factor
pectations. If you use the phrase, as to why you ARE single… there are a few other issues I have with this “lonely on
“Love is in the air,” you’re doing Valentine’s Day” mentality.
too much. Girls are most likely expecting For starters, Valentine’s Day is all about love, sure, but—and I can not stress
this enough— THERE ARE OTHER FORMS OF LOVE BESIDES ROMANTIC
a massive bouquet of flowers, a giant teddy bear (if
LOVE. It’s not “boyfriend/girlfriend day,” and why people have decided that the
they don’t already have one), a box of chocolates, and for their
holiday is only for people who fit this criteria is beyond me. Love your friends?
lover to pay for their overpriced dinner at The Cheesecake
Take an extra second to remind them how much you appreciate them. Love your
Factory. grandma? Get her a nice card to add to her refrigerator collection. And if you’re
For those who have not one care for this day full of love, their feeling especially generous, find a little gift to give to someone you care about. The
day will probably go something like this: They’ll probably want opportunities are endless.
to spray Febreeze every time someone says, “Love is in the air” If you’re one to sulk on your Snapchat story about the status of your non-existent
to get the love to go away. The only thing they’ll look forward to love life, let’s all keep in mind that in the grand scheme of things, there are a lot more
are those heart-shaped lollipops people give out. They’ll probably single people than there are taken- at least at our age. So while it might be fun for
give all those couples kissing in the hallways the dirtiest of looks. you to annoy us all with your dramatic social media rants, we’re really all just lonely
The best thing that will happen to them is figuring out that they together. And if seeing happy couples on Valentine’s Day (who, might I add, exist
passed a test they could’ve sworn they bombed. The night will every other day of the year) upsets you that much and makes you feel THAT lonely,
end with them sitting in bed, probably with a facemask on, look- you’ve got some separate issues.
ing through all the pictures of people and their significant others All in all, let’s stop using Valentine’s
on Instagram. Day as a day to feel bad for ourselves
For those hopeless romantics, this is the absolute worst day. and
All they want is someone’s love and attention, but the most they’ll extend the love in our hearts to those
who don’t always get recognized. A
get is a lollipop. They probably have a secret crush they will never
small gift or even just a word of encour-
admit to. Seeing their crush in the halls will make them melt even
agement goes a long way. And please,
if they don’t speak a word to each other. Their night will probably
for the love of God, stop posting about
end much like those who don’t care for the holiday although they your singleness on every form of social
might have sad music blasting to drown out their loneliness. media you have...we get it.
Give Me Junk Food or Give Me Death
BY REBEKAH FROEHLICH
most holidays still have candy and baked goods. However, there are many
When thinking back to elementary school, one of the most fun
concerned parents who are looking to tighten the specifications even further,
activities had to be the holiday parties. Halloween, Christmas, and
or even eradicate the food altogether.
even Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day were not complete with-
There is no problem with children bringing in foods for holidays and birth-
out a whole (or at least half) day with no work and only celebration.
days that are high in fat, sugar, or high fructose corn syrup. Why? Because
And what was the best thing about those parties? The food! And
they’re kids. Parents are worried that their children are going to become
what was the best food? Candy, cupcakes, and occasionally brown-
unhealthy from these rare occasions they can enjoy a snack at school. But
ies. Now school board mongrels are trying to take those delights
how many of these kids go home and have chips, candy, or anything made
away from children. This is nothing less than an outrage. If there are
by Little Debbie for an after-school snack? If parents are teaching their kids
no heart-shaped lollipops in elementary schools across the country
how to lead a healthy life, then a few days of junk won’t hurt anybody. The
on Valentine’s Day, is it even Valentine’s Day?
school has already made some school lunches practically unbearable with
On the North Hills School District Website, in refer- ence to
healthy specifications. Don’t take away the happiness at parties, too. It’s
elementary student birthdays, a paragraph reads, “North
tiring to hear about so many problems that aren’t even
Hills School District and our families can provide
problems at all. What kid doesn’t deserve a cookie a
snacks to our elementary students that offer the nutri-
couple times a month?
tional benefits of being lower in fat and calories than
Some of the best memories I have from elementary
comparable products, while also meeting the criteria of
school are when I was passing out cupcakes for my
our wellness program.” This wellness criteria carries
birthday that I worked hard to make or getting a val-
over to holiday parties. These alternative snacks that
entine from my crush with a piece of candy attached.
parents can choose to purchase from the schools in-
Taking food out of the holidays takes the fun out of
clude: ice cream bars, ice cream cups, juice and water
them, in some ways. It definitely takes the fun out of
(??). After speaking with my brother, who is in 2nd
birthdays. Being line leader is in no way comparable to
grade at West View Elementary, it has come to my
passing out a snack that gets everyone out of work for at
attention that these parameters are loosely followed.
Yes, families choose these alternatives to buy for birthdays, but least 20 minutes. Let kids be kids. Let kids eat junk food.
page 4FEBRUARY 2019 Issue
OPINION
Red Flags Through Rose-Colored
Lenses BY: LILLITH BROTHERS
Ok listen, I know you’re sick of this topic. You’ve heard
the arguments a hundred times. Valentine’s sucks! Valentines
ment are the signs they list
for good communication.
is great! Whatever. That’s not quite what this article is about Now that you’ve been
(Sorry!), but it needed to at least sound relevant so I could write lectured on all that, can
about it. I may be sick of Valentine’s debates, but the holiday you recognize if your relationship (if you’re in one) is healthy? If it’s not,
sparks some needed conversations. Like unhealthy relationships, what do you do? Talk to your partner about it! (Duh.) But if trying to fix
loneliness, depression, the idealization of romance in our culture, it doesn’t help and your partner intimidates you, threatens you, or makes
and all that jazz, baby! you do things you don’t want to do, it may be abusive. And you’re not
There’s a pressure on teens to be in a relationships, which alone. The Office of Adolescent Health says one in three teens who date
pressures teens into, you know, bad relationships. A lot of the experience emotional abuse and one in ten report being physically hurt by
time people who are in bad relationships don’t realize anything their partner. If you think your relationship is abusive, please reach out to
is wrong. Planned Parenthood lists the most important qualities someone, get a support system, and care for yourself.
of a relationship as respect, trust, honesty, equality, and good The take away from all this: you don’t need an “other half.” You are
communication. So, the basic paraphrased rundown of what this a whole person-- a changing and evolving one, maybe, but whole. Your
organization defines as healthy: Respect in a relationship shows partner is supposed to make you feel good and help you grow as a person.
when you listen to each other and treat each other kindly. Good Some people may think being in an unhealthy relationship is better than
trust in a relationship is when you feel secure in your relation- being alone, but it’s not. If your partner has consistently hurt you, then you
ship, even while apart, and have faith in your partner. Honesty might be better alone. You have all of the rest of your life to find someone
means that both parties are able to openly talk about their feel- you love (if you even want to!), so getting stuck in something that leaves
ings, are comfortable telling the truth, and able to admit when lasting psychological damage just isn’t worth it. You, though, are worth it!
they are wrong. Equality takes place when you and your partner Treat yourself with love. If this Valentine’s or any ordinary day makes you
compromise, give and take equally, share making decisions, and feel like you have to be in a relationship, just know that that is straight up
consider each other’s feelings when making decisions. Being dumb, dude. Valentine’s Day doesn’t matter. If you have someone and love
able to talk about your feelings openly with each other, disagree them, good for you! Don’t make anyone feel bad that they don’t. Take care
about things without being disrespectful, and listen without judg- of yourself this season, and don’t feel like you need to be with someone to
be someone.
Social Media: Time Well Spent?
BY: MADINA SOBIRJONOVA the possibility of forming an addiction. This
see a movie with friends, there’s a chance that
the group is using their phones while waiting for
the film to begin. The few minutes before are
In this digitally-centered era, social me- not only changes the way a person functions, moments used to capture a photo with everyone
dia is used by majority of the population. You but it also increases the screen time spent on and share it on some platform. With the the pic-
can’t avoid it: whether it’s Instagram, Twitter, one’s device. With their recent update, Apple’s tures captured, it has to be that everyone looks
or Snapchat, it’s an everyday tool. A major com- “screentime” function provides a user with the perfect or it isn’t posted. It has become a place
pany can use it to promote their products, while amount of time spent on their device and also for people to obsess over self image. Some de-
a regular user simply shares a photo. It’s a big breaks down the specific apps used in that time cide to facetune their photos to the point where
part of today’s society and allows for people to period. It was evident that adolescents spend a it looks completely different from the original.
connect worldwide. However, some form an daily average of seven hours on their devices. At a certain point, this constant want to pres-
addiction, to the point where they can’t go by Many of them, mostly teenagers, used that time ent one’s best self on the Internet becomes
without checking it constantly. Even in the halls on social media. According to Mediakix, 50% unhealthy. It’s okay to present one’s best self,
of North Hills, you see students on their phones of regular phone users did in fact check their but there should be a limit of what it takes to
checking up their feeds and keeping their eyes phone for social media reasons, as in checking achieve it.
glued to the screen. Not only does this start the their notifications or replying back to someone. To conclude, social media shouldn’t be taken
addiction to form, but it also increases an in- Even though social media connects people, so seriously that it becomes an addiction. In-
dividual’s daily screen time. Social media has it reduces the time people spend face-to-face. stead, an individual should try to reduce their
become a global addiction during this revolu- When people do meet, it’s documented on their time spent on it. If you’re the type to check your
tionizing time of technology. social media platforms. During a party or a phone every few minutes, try to distract your
To begin, a social media addiction is when simple get together, people always have their mind from it. Try talking with the people around
an individual uses it excessively, to the point phones out to record a Snap or take a picture to you or get some work done. It’s okay to check it
that it affects his or her everyday life. Mediakix post later on. They don’t meet up without hav- a few times a day, but shorten the time spent on
has found that 3.1 billion people have registered ing to check their phones several times during social media platforms little by little. If your life
social media accounts as of 2018. This is about it; it’s almost as if they need to share it instead flashed before your eyes, how much of it would
one-third of the world’s population that have of actually being there. For example, if you go be spent staring at a screen?
page 5The Arrowhead
FEATURES
Meet
Name: Joe Veneziale
Nicknames: Meatball, Spider,
Shins, Veneziale Banger
Grade: 12
Elementary school: West
the
View
STAFF
Favorite movie: The Blind
Side
Food court go-to: Sarku Japan
First song you play on the
aux: “I Will Survive” by Gloria
Gaynor
Pet peeves: Kids walking slow
in the halls
Expected GPA for this
semester: 3.7
Funniest high school
memory: Food Fight in 10th
grade
Name: Sophia Yacoviello Name: Charlie Knox
Nicknames: Sophie, Phia Nicknames: Chucky-Dub,
Grade: 11 Captain Denny
Elementary school: Ross Grade: 12
Elementary
Elementary school: Ross
Favorite movie: White Chicks
Favorite movie: The Lion King
Food court go-to: Chick-fil-A
Food court go-to: Five Guys
First song you play on the
First song you play on the aux:
aux: “Startender” by A Boogie
“Jump” by Van Halen
Wit da Hoodie ft. Offset and
Pet peeves: When you’re just
Tyga
“average”
Pet peeves: people who chew
with their mouths open, slow
Expected GPA for this
walkers semester: I’m a second semester
Expected GPA for this senior. Who cares.
semester: 3.8 (hopefully) Funniest high school
Funniest high school memory: Cooking mac ‘n cheese
memory: my grades in my Disney hotel room
sophomore year
Name: Joseph Ryan Name: Nina Topich
Nicknames: Joe, Crippled, Limp Nicknames: Nin, Ninerz
Grade: 12 Grade: 11
Elementary school: THE Saint Elementary school: the GOAT
Sebastian School McIntyre Elementary
Favorite movie: Stepbrothers Favorite movie: Movies are
Food court go-to: 5 Guys Burger overrated- I only watch Friends
& Fries Food court go-to: Chick-fil-A
First song you play on the aux: First song you play on the aux:
“100 Shots” or “Baller Alert” by “Back Up” by DeJ Loaf
Young Dolph Pet peeves: people who don’t
Pet peeves: Loud chewers, weak have white Yetis, being left on
read, when people don’t kiss the
people, prima donnas, people
ground I walk on
who don’t lift, short people,
Expected GPA for this semes-
people who fake injuries, obnox- ter: 3.5 - set your expectations
iousness, Nancy Pelosi low so you can exceed them
Expected GPA for this Funniest high school memory:
semester: .5 anything that involves Sydney,
Funniest high school memory: Lexie, Kayla, and I being
Food fights sophomore year together
page 6FEBRUARY 2019 Issue
FEATURES
Name: Alyssa Aguglia
The spring semester Nickname: Lyss
Grade: 12
Arrowhead Staff has already Elementary school: West
View and Ross
Favorite movie: The Perks of
been hustling to bring you the Being a Wallflower
Food court go-to: Chick-fil-A
First song you play on the
most relevant news at North aux: “Countdown” by
Beyonce
Hills. Read on to learn more Pet peeves: when people stop
walking in the middle of the
hall
about the brains behind our Expected GPA for this
semester: 4.0
operation! Funniest high school
memory: driving a cop car
Name: Lillith Brothers
Nicknames: I respond to pretty
much anything?
Name: Danny Ritchey
Grade: 10
Elementary school: Carnegie and
Nicknames: Dritch, Ritchey,
Ross! Curly, Curls
Favorite movie: Oh geez don’t make Grade: 12
me choose :( Elementary school: McIntyre
Food court go-to: China Max is Elementary
my home base, baby!!! Love those Favorite movie: Forrest Gump
noodles. Food court go-to: Five Guys
First song you play on the aux: I
First song you play on the aux:
just spend the whole car ride trying
to choose a song. I’m not allowed to
“In the Air Tonight” -Phil Collins
have the aux anymore. Pet peeves: People who try to
Pet peeves: People saying Lilly talk over people
because I always think they mean Expected GPA for this semester:
me, but it’s normally Lilly Roll. I’ve 3.5
only been in one class with her and Funniest high school memory:
it’s only been like a day but I’m going When Jordan Albright threw
crazy. Sorry, Lilly.
Garret Barto through a table
Expected GPA for this semester:
Like. 0. Can you get a 0 GPA? I can before basketball practice
be the first and fail for research.
Name: Jacob Stuckert Name: Angelina Asturi
Nicknames: Stuck/Young Tiger Nickname: Ang
Woods Grade: 11
Grade: 12 Elementary school: Ross
Favorite movie: A Cinderella Story
Elementary school: McIntyre
or To All The Boys I’ve Ever Loved
Favorite movie: Happy Gilmore Food court go-to: Panera or Sarku
Food court go-to: Five Guys Japan
First song you play on the First song you play on the aux:
aux: Any 21 savage or Trippie “Wake Up in The Sky” by Gucci
redd Mane, Bruno Mars, and Kodak
Pet peeves: People who don’t Black
like golfers or Vineyard Vines Pet peeves: Talking over someone
Expected GPA for this semes- else, people taking advantage of
ter: 5.0 others, ridged nails, filthy glasses,
Virgos
Funniest high school memo-
Expected GPA for this semester:
ry: Officer Lawrence yelling at 3.6-3.8
the basketball team for having Funniest high school memory:
a snowball fight in the park- Tripping in the middle of the street
ing lot before a after school while I was walking to the bus stop
practice my sophomore year.
page 7The Arrowhead
FEATURES
Name: Josh Selzer
Nickname: Selzy
Grade: 12
Elementary school: Highcliff
Favorite movie: Mission
Impossible: Fallout
Food court go-to: China Max
First song you play on the
aux: “Feel Invincible”
Pet peeves: People who can’t
take a hint
Expected GPA for this
semester: 3.7
Funniest high school
memory: Being in small
films for my friend’s film
class sophomore year
Name: Joshua Begler
Nicknames: Josh, Joshy, Jontch, Name: Madina Sobirjonova
Bosh, J-man Grade: 11
Grade: 11
Elementary school: West View
Elementary school: McIntyre
Favorite movie: Scott Pilgrim Vs. Elementary
The World Favorite movie: Ocean’s 8
Food court go-to: Panera or Villa Food court go-to: Chick-fil-A
Fresh Italian Kitchen First song you play on the
First song you play on the aux: aux: “Goodnight and Go” by
“Super Rich Kids” by Frank Ocean
and Earl Sweatshirt
Ariana Grande
Pet peeves: People who respond Pet peeves: People who chew
to my sarcastic joke by pretending with their mouth open and
they don’t realize it’s a joke and people who bite their nails
responding to it bitterly, and then Expected GPA for this se-
when I clarify that I’m joking, sud-
mester: 3.8
denly THEY’RE also joking. Just
laugh at my joke Funniest high school memo-
Expected GPA for this semester: ry: When Nick Colletti tweet-
3.8 ed at me
Name: Lilly Roll
Nickname: L-Rolio
Grade: 12
Name: Rachel Lewandowski Elementary school: Ross
Nicknames: Rach, Wrinkle Elementary
Grade: 11 Favorite movie: Thor:
Elementary school: West Ragnarok
View Food court go-to: Panera
Favorite movie: Mr. Popper’s First song you play on the
Penguins aux: Anything by Ariana
Food court go-to: Charley’s Grande
First song you play on the Pet peeves: People who chew
aux: Any Childish Gambino or with their mouth open
Amine Expected GPA for this semes-
Pet peeves: People chewing ter: 3.2
with their mouths open & Funniest high school memo-
chewing noises in general ry: Honestly, I have so many
Expected GPA for this good memories, I can’t commit
to just one.
semester: 3.3
page 8FEBRUARY 2019 Issue
FEATURES
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: New Season, New Faces
CHLOE MILLER
BY REBEKAH FROEHLICH
BY CHIARA OCASIO
New seasons call for many new beginnings: new members, styles, and even
coaches. This season, North Hills Cheerleading is very excited to introduce
Grade: 11 their new Head Coach, Tracy Indof.
This isn’t Mrs. Indof’s first rodeo with cheerleading. She started coach-
Art Classes Taken Here ing at the age of fourteen. She coached elementary, middle school, and high
at NH: Studio Art 1 and school cheer before opening her own all-star cheer gym, Pittsburgh Poison, in
2, Pottery 1, AP Art 2003. This year, however, she has taken on two more coaching roles as North
Hills Head Coach and at the University Of Pittsburgh as Assistant Cheer
Other Extracurricular Activities/ and Dance Coach. She previously worked for many years with Elite Cheer
Clubs: French National Honors Camps. She was a three year UCA instructor and judged for a variety of cheer
Society, French Club, Marching Band and dance competitions.
Indof is very happy to be back at North Hills because these are her old
stomping grounds. She cheered at North Hills from 10th-12th grade and at
Favorite Art-Related Opportunity
the University of Pittsburgh for four years. She held a two-year captain title
You Have at North Hills: ARts Alive
in both programs. At North Hills, she has created goals of making a great
(it’s lit)
game day atmosphere, building a top-of-the-line program for both sideline
and competitive cheer, creating respect for cheerleading in the North Hills
What art classes would you
community, and having the girls develop skills for success in and out of cheer.
recommend to someone who would
Indof’’s inspiration for coaching comes from her mother, who was the coach
like to venture into the
at her elementary school. Her mother asked Tracy to help her coach to keep
art world for the first up on her skills and fill a void, since she was unable to cheer her freshman year
time? Studio Art 1 and due to not yet living in the district during the time of tryouts. This time in her
Photo 1 life is when she found her true passion for coaching. Through coaching, Ind-
of has won many national titles along with two-time American Cheer Pow-
Are you looking to er Coaching Staff of the year, 15 Worlds Medals, 2015, 2017, and 2018 World
pursue art after High Champion, and many others. From all these titles, it is quite clear that she is
School? If so, in what field? pretty great!
Yes. Probably graphic design or if Through her 24 years of coaching, Tracy has had many amazing experi-
I’m feeling it, maybe embroidery and ences. Her favorite thing is seeing all her work come alive on the competition
textiles. floor. Her weirdest moment is when one time her team was waiting to take
the floor and a competitor just started peeing her pants. Tracy’s whole life isn’t
If yes, did NH help you solidify that just coaching, however. Outside of the cheer and dance world, she is married
decision? Yes, definitely. to Ross Indof and has two
kids: Reese (9) and Tyler
Do you feel like North Hills (7). She enjoys eating out
prepares you for your art endeav- and attending Broadway
ors after high school? Yeah, Mr. shows with her husband.
Simon is cool and helps me a lot. Tracy also likes going to Ve-
gas, but not for gambling;
Most Influential Teacher: she simply just likes the
Mr. Hillegas is a god. scenery and atmosphere.
Lastly, she enjoys attend-
What’s the thing you love most ing her kids’ events and just
about your art? hanging out with family and
I like making art friends.
because it’s Advice she has to all her
something that is cheerleaders and dancers
independent and is, “Be prepared, listen well,
gets to be and always give your all. If
personal to me. you follow these three sim-
ples steps, you will be able
to find success in everything
you do!”
photo courtesy of Tracy Indof page 9The Arrowhead
FEATURES
TIME FOR THON!
The time has come when THON is right around the corner, and
everyone’s invited. This year, Student Council and Hands for Service
BY GIANNA DiPAOLO
Not only is THON a memorable and fun time for everyone, it also sup-
ports charities around Pittsburgh, such as Make-A-Wish and Children’s Hospital
students are taking THON to the next level and incorporating middle Foundation. These two foundations do a considerable amount for sick children
school and community members into the fun. around Pittsburgh, and the donations for THON only help them further.
On March 1st, we are proud to announce that a THON Jr. will THON’s objective is to raise money for these charities and provide for the
be held for the middle school students from 7-10p.m. Middle school children who haven’t had the luxuries we’ve had. Every year the amount of
students will be able to dance the night away for a good cause and money raised grants children who are longing for a memorable experience that
get themselves ready to move up to the high school THON! Follow- opportunity, and we want to continue to help even more this year.
ing THON Jr., Student Council and Hands for Service are hosting a That being said, we encourage everyone to spread the word and bring a friend
community THON on March 2nd from 12-3 so people throughout the to THON this year because you’d be helping a tremendous amount! If you have
North Hills community can come and support a great cause. Later that any further questions about the dance marathon, contact Mrs. DiPasquale or
night, the high school dance marathon will be held from 5-11 in the Mrs. Patsilevas accordingly. We hope to see you there!
THE IMPORTANCE OF THON
middle school gymnasiums!
BY SEAN NOLAN surgeries and spinal taps, where they would in-
Why is THON important? Why are those ject chemo into my spine. As horrible as I felt
six hours on a Saturday in March so meaningful? physically in that place, it is the reason I am
Because for those 360 minutes, we can all forget here today. There is not a single bad thing I
about our troubles. We can overlook our next could say about Children’s. The staff is amaz-
English essay or the petty fights with our friends ing. Nurses, doctors, and child life are there
and focus on those who aren’t as fortunate as us. to make you feel better. They are so under-
The purpose of THON is “For the Kids.” We standing and want to help you. I have become
dance and raise money for those kids who don’t so extremely close with a lot of the employees
get to go to school every day. Instead of worry- at the hospital. Many of my nurses came to
ing about their math homework and just getting see our school’s musical last spring, and I am
through high school, they’re focusing on waking even singing at one of my nurse’s weddings in
up each day and undergoing cancer treatments July. Even Arlyn, the housekeeper, made a dif-
or preparing for their open-heart surgery. That’s ference in my life. He would draw me pictures
why it’s important. We’re raising money for the of Kermit and just come into my room to chill
kids lying in hospital beds at Children’s Hospital with me, talking about basketball or shoes.
of Pittsburgh or getting ready to meet Justin Bie- They are so caring at Children’s. Through your
ber on their Make a Wish. I have been blessed to donations and funds raised at THON, you will
be making these kids’ serious health journeys a into right now. He also took pictures with us and
be closely affiliated with both of these amazing signed our merchandise, including a custom “The
foundations. That’s why THON is important to lot more bearable. Their child life program works
to bring fun to those four-walled hospital rooms, Cutch” 22 Giants jersey that he gifted me. It was
me. an experience unlike any other. I am so thankful
During my sophomore year, I was diagnosed brightening up your day by playing games. Art
and music therapy are also crucial at the hospi- to have had this opportunity to fly out and meet
with Burkitt’s Lymphoma. Cancer. I stayed in my favorite athlete. Make-a-Wish gives kids with
Children’s Hospital many nights, sometimes for tal. I spent a lot of time at the hospital singing
with the music therapists and playing the piano tough battles the chance to just enjoy themselves.
as long as two weeks at a time. I would lie in They can forget about their own respective fights
my bed, receiving chemotherapy and undergoing and ukulele. The employees are so understand-
ing and want to make this battle more bearable. and have fun with their families. Make-a-Wish
Nobody wants to end up at Children’s Hospital, works to make all wishes come true. My friend
but if you’re like me and end up there, you are so Emma met Justin Bieber on his “Purpose” tour.
grateful to have such an amazing hospital in our My buddy Austin is going to Hawaii with his fam-
own backyard. ily. Make-a-Wish gives kids, despite what they’re
The other half of the money we collect goes to going through, the chance to be kids.
the Make-a-Wish Foundation. This non-profit or- So THON is more than just dancing and
ganization arranges experiences called “wishes” hanging out. It’s more than just another dance.
to kids battling critical illnesses. I was blessed THON has a purpose and we have a purpose. We
to have received a Wish. In August, my family are so fortunate to wake up in our own beds and
and I traveled to San Francisco to meet former get ready for school. As much as we hate to hear
Pirates outfielder Andrew McCutchen. We spent that alarm blaring at 6 a.m., we need to seize the
four days out in California, sightseeing, visiting opportunity at hand. We need to fight for those
the aquarium, walking around downtown, and who can’t. We need to use our abilities and bless-
talking with #22. He was such a genuine person. ings to raise money for those who can’t dance
We stood on the field for an hour and hung out for themselves. “We dance for hope, for a cure,
with Cutch. He told us about his son, his favor- for courage, wisdom, honesty, and strength. We
ite baseball moments, and which video game he’s dance for those who cannot.” That is why THON
is important.
page 10FEBRUARY 2019 Issue
REVIEWS
A Star is Born
With the Oscars around the corner,
it seems everyone is abuzz with talk of
own music and led the creative process rather
BY MARIA KRESEN
quarter-century have succumbed to drugs
than following that of an overpaid producer. and depression- Soundgarden frontman Chris
frontrunner A Star is Born. The film dissects Jackson’s fictional timeline suggests he rose Cornell committed suicide in 2017, 23 years
timeless yet modern themes set against the to fame in the 1990s, which ushered in a re- after Kurt Cobain did the same. Anthony
backdrop of a love story. surgence of rock music into the mainstream. Kiedis wrote “Under the Bridge” about his
Bradley Cooper’s first venture into Soundgarden, Nirvana, and the Red Hot struggle with narcotics. Talented musicians
directing is bold, beautiful, and honest. The Chili Peppers were playing on main radio are often most susceptible to the world of
fourth cinematic rendition of the classic story stations across America, not just alternative drug abuse. Even after going through reha-
originating in 1937 follows aspiring starlet radio. It was what teenagers listened to and bilitation to save his marriage to the clean
Ally and seasoned Jackson Maine. The story adults hated. It wasn’t about hitting your ear Ally, Jackson struggles with the trials of a
reminds each and every viewer of the feeling in a pleasing manner; its goal was to reach damaged person who found solace in self-
when you’re first appreciated, both for your every part of yourself in a way “Thank U, harm.
talents and raw self. The love story that en- Next” simply can’t. Bradley Cooper’s A Star is Born is
sues after Jackson comes across Ally singing It’s true that Ally’s (Gaga’s) talent brutally honest, beautifully done, and utterly
in a real-life drag bar is wrapped in a myriad transcends through her pop songs later on the romantic in all the right ways. Behind talent
of issues concerning fame, drugs, alcohol, album after her creative process is hijacked there is struggle, and even in struggle we can
and selfish outsiders. The core of the story is, by producer Rez, but it’s her earlier songs find love.
however, that love can transcend all social with Jackson (“Shallow,” “Look What I’ve
classes, addictions, and mental illnesses. It Found”) that are the most memorable.
may not be a universal cure, but love makes However, Jackson’s side of the
a star out of any ambitious human being. story is far more tragic than his young coun-
A Star is Born teaches us the terpart’s. As he falls, she rises. The music
mainstream of music is a waste of talent and industry is plagued with drugs and alcohol.
leaves little to no room for the creative pro- The nature of the industry steeped in party-
cess. Real musicians have been replaced with ing and celebrities having unlimited access
conformist pop stars more noticed for their to cocaine, pills, acid, and alcohol only sets
bedazzled performance-wear and reliance on up those entering it young (men like Jackson
a synthesized beat than old-school Clapton with childhood traumas) for tragedy. Some
and Corgan-esque musicians who wrote their of the most talented musicians of the last Warner Bros. Pictures
WATCHING YOU
On a casual day
BY GIANNA DIPAOLO
ecutive producer, Sera Gamble, explains
at a bookstore
that “one thing we were very, very clear on
in New York, a
is that Joe Goldberg is... the opposite of that
young woman’s
cold-blooded, psychopathic killer. He’s a
life will change
romantic, he’s thoughtful, he’s even a little
forever. Netflix
bit shy, and he’s genuinely really sensitive
recently released
and emotional.” The show’s basis as a whole
a chilling and
is how society uses social media to develop
compelling
habits in pursuing someone, as we often do.
thriller called
Because of this, society loses the premise of
YOU, and it
getting to actually know someone’s charac-
has shaken the
ter, as we already “know” them due to their
Internet with its
online profile.
storyline.
The show as a whole has been doing
The
fantastic on Netflix, and bingers want to
show starts out love for her quickly spirals out of control as the see more. The character development and
slowly with the main protagonist, Joe Gold- dark side of love emerges. storyline fascinates watchers, and everyone is
berg, working as the manager of a bookstore. Although he appears as a creeper/ curious as to what Joe Goldberg will do next. If
He is an innocent, awkward man with a big stalker who can’t handle the thought of rejec- you need a new twisted and addictive show, I
crush on one of his recent customers, Beck. tion, the deeper meaning of YOU transpires as highly recommend adding YOU to your watch
Joe develops an obsession with Beck, and his the audience watches on. Writer and co-ex- list.
page 11The Arrowhead
ENTERTAINMENT
weird dates in February Steamy Songs
BY SARAH HERSHBERGER BY GIANNA DIPAOLO
Canned Food Month, National Bake for Family Fun Month,
National Grapefruit Month, National Hot Breakfast Month, National
“Somewhere Only We
Bird Feeding Month, and National Children’s Dental Month. These Know” by Keane
are only a few of the crazy names for February, but let’s dig deeper. “ILYSB” by LANY
Here are some of the National Days in February to celebrate! “She Will Be Loved”
1- National Texas Day: Rock your fav cowboy hat and hit up Texas by Maroon 5
Roadhouse. “Can’t Help Falling in
2- National Tater Tot Day: Stuff your cargo pockets full of tots (if you
know, you know). GOSH! Love with You” by Elvis
4- National Create A Vacuum Day: Yeah, sorry, I don’t get this one, Presley
either... “Fall in Love” by
10- National Cream Cheese Brownie Day: Bake something??
12- National Plum Pudding Day: I mean I guess if you like this stuff, Barcelona
eat it? “Wanted” by Hunter
14- National Organ Donor Day (forget V-Day): If you don’t donate an Hayes
organ, what are you doing?
15- Singles Awareness Day: Go get yourself some chocolate and hang “It’s Gotta Be You” by
out with your BFFs! Isaiah
23- National Tile Day: You know you’ve always wanted to re-do your
bathroom, and today is the day.
24- National Tortilla Chip Day: Grab a bowl, your fav salsa, and your
couch. Munch. Valentine's
28- National Floral Design Day: Remember your bathroom makeover?
Well, add some floral designs, and you’ve got the dream bath! DATE IDEAS
BY SARAH HERSHBERGER
Valentine's Day
Go out to eat- I know this
is basic, but sometimes treating
yourselves isn’t bad! Go to a place
that has special meaning to you or
for the Average Joe
BY JOEY VENEZIALE
somewhere you both like. It doesn’t
matter as long as you’re both enjoy-
ing yourselves!
Make a date night box-
Valentine’s Day is the day of love, relationships, and spending time with your Add some of your fav snacks, pick
significant other. But not everyone gets to spend this holiday wifed up... like your favorite movies, and grab a
me, your average Joe. I’ve been single for a significant amount of time now,
seat on the couch! Sometimes the
and I’m okay with that. It’s fun. You get plenty of alone time, never have to
nights spent in are the best nights.
worry about where your girlfriend is, and you’re on your own schedule. In my
opinion, Valentine’s Day for the single guy should look a lot like this. First, go Game night- Gather some of
to the gym- you’re not forced to eat chocolates that your nonexistent girlfriend your favorite two-person games
got for you, so why not go a healthier route? Hit the gym and get your body and go head-to-head with your sig-
in shape…or pretend to work out while you try to scout out a girl who is also nificant other. A little competition
spending her day alone. Next, play some video games. Girls don’t like vid- never hurt anybody!
eo games, so use this opportunity to reconnect with the guys. And of course, Bake your own dessert-
spend some time with your friends. They’re the ones who really matter- might They say food brings everyone
as well treasure the ones who have always stuck around. No relationship will together, so why not bake a sweet
ever top that. Let’s bring singleness back in style Valentine’s Day 2k19. treat with your sweet boo?
page 12FEBRUARY 2019 Issue
ENTERTAINMENT
Hot Couples: V-day Edition
seamus connolly and liz osche
BY: DARBY VOJTKO
How long have you been dating? What’s the worst part about your significant
Liz: a little over 1 year and 2 months other?
Seamus: a year and 2 months Liz: His truck.
When did the flirting begin? Seamus: Her dog allergies and criticisms of my
Liz: Summer of ‘17 singing.
Seamus: Summer 2017 What’s the best part about your significant
Describe your first date: other?
Liz: We went to watch Jigsaw at the movies (how Liz: His truck… and his unconditional love, sup-
romantic) and afterwards we ran into Vanessa, Joe, port, and of course his playful humor.
and Luke and went to Luke’s for a bonfire. Seamus: The fact that she puts up with all the
Seamus: We saw Jigsaw in the movies and Vanessa, dumb things I do.
Joe, and Luke decided to crash our date. Typical hangout spot?
How do you make the relationship work? Liz: His basement watching our favorite episodes
Liz: A good balance of trust, respect, understanding, of That 70’s Show.
and lots of goofing off. Seamus:Watching That 70’s Show in my basement.
Seamus: We can be ourselves around each other and Who wears the pants in the relationship?
respect each other. Liz: Me- but if you ask him, he’ll say otherwise.
taylor chrisenberry and derek muha
Seamus: Depends which one you ask (it’s me).
How long have you been dating? ship. We live and learn from them, and I think that’s
Taylor: Almost a year and a half, but we’ve talked since what keeps us going strong.
8th grade. Derek: It’s a mix of trust, sacrifice, understanding, lots
Derek: Let’s do the math… about a year and 5 months. of love, and everything in between.
When did the flirting begin? What’s the worst part about your significant other?
Taylor: It definitely started when we were “best friends” Taylor: He always has to be right. I can never win any
in 8th grade- everyone knew we’d be more than friends. argument.
Derek: Around the middle of 8th grade when we were Derek: She’s extremely indecisive.
“best friends.” What’s the best part about your significant other?
Describe your first date: Taylor: I truly love everything about him. There’s not
Taylor: We went to see the Spiderman movie (he’ll one thing I favor most about him. (But) I love his eyes
argue it was something else). After, we walked to iHop and smile!
and stayed there until about 2 a.m. talking. Derek: I love every little thing about her, from her em-
Derek: We met at the movie theater and we saw some erald eyes to her beautiful smile to her cute little nose.
movie (I still don’t know what movie it was). As soon I mean, what is there not to like about her?
as the movie was over neither of us wanted to go home. Typical hangout spot?
We walked across McKnight Road to iHop and stayed Taylor: Usually at one of our houses.
there until almost 2 a.m. It was a little awkward, but it Derek: One of our houses.
was a great first date. Who wears the pants in the relationship?
How do you make the relationship work? Taylor: He doesn’t think so, but it’s most definitely
Taylor: We have both learned that we each make mis- me.
takes, but it doesn’t define who we are or our relation- Derek: It’s obviously me.
kayla haile and
How long have you been dating?
joe ryan
What’s the worst part about your significant
Kayla: 3 months other?
Joe: A year and a month Kayla: I’m best friends with his sister.
When did the flirting begin? Joe: She’s best friends with my sister.
Kayla: Sophomore year math class What’s the best part about your significant
Joe: Mrs. Wroblewski’s honors trig and pre- other?
calc class Kayla: He’s always grounded, so we never
Describe your first date: have to hang out.
Kayla: I don’t remember; we either went to Joe: She has a hot tub.
Mad Mex or the movies Typical hangout spot?
Joe: The classic movie date to see Daddy’s Kayla: Sydney’s basement
Home 2 Joe: My house, her hot tub, somewhere with
How do you make the relationship work? my sister
Kayla: I don’t tell Sydney anything. Who wears the pants in the relationship?
Joe: We have a lot in common and enjoy being Kayla: Me. Why is this even a question.
with each other. Joe: I tore my ACL. Me.
page 13The Arrowhead
ENTERTAINMENT
Sweet Ride
BY: DANNY RITCHEY
Teacher Starter Packs
BY: SOPHIA YACOVIELLO
Take a look at these starter packs and try to guess which North Hills
Owner: Ian Keller
Ride: 2016 Honda Civic
teacher we’re describing!
Color: night burgundy pearl Teacher #1 Teacher #2
Nickname: Pegasus
Max Speed: 125
Place of purchase: Smail
Special abilities: Has sport mode
Favorite passengers: Liam O’Neill
Date night: Go to a drive-in movie
theater with Roxie (his dog) and find
a nice spot to watch the movie.
If your car were a person, what
would he or she be?: It would be a
male cheetah.
Teacher #3 Teacher #4
Celebrity
Answers: 1. Mr. Woffington, 2. Mr. DeWeese, 3. Mrs. Washington, 4. Mr. Lavelle
lookalikes
BY: SARAH HERSHBERGER
Emma Margo & Michelle Trachtenberg Eric Feth & Bolby
Tyler Wissner & Robin Williams
page 14FEBRUARY 2019 Issue
ENTERTAINMENT
BFF
SIZZLING SINGLES Olav s
&
Andrew
BY: CHARLIE KNOX
How long have you been BFFs?
A: We met in 7th grade.
O: Since 7th grade, so five years now.
How did you first meet?
A: Well, in 7th grade in Ms. Hamlet’s homeroom,
Olav threatened to beat me up. I thought it was hilar-
ious.
O: I threatened to beat Andrew up for allegedly
talking crap on me. He laughed.
Was he actually talking crap?
A: I can honestly say I never did.
O: I’m not sure to this day. 7th grade Andrew was a
sketchy character.
Did you click instantly, or did your connection
grow over time?
Name: Savannah Argenas Name: Zach Miller A: After the threatening incident, we got along just
Grade: 11 Grade: 11 fine. We started playing cards all the time in home-
room.
Nickname: Sav, Savinni, Savinni Panin- Nickname: Spike, Chef Ramsey, smelly
O: One minute I was ready to throw hands, the next I
ni, Santana, Carlos, Bighead, Babygirl Interests: hugging trees, cooking, pet-
was playing Blackjack with the kid. You tell me.
Interests: Arizona Green Tea, duck- ting dogs, smelling pickle jars What do you like most about each other?
duck-goose, attracting sophomore boys Favorite Restaurant: Ruby Tuesday’s A: Olav is a kind person and only thinks about others,
Favorite Restaurant: Olive Garden Celebrity Crush: Blueface never himself.
Celebrity Crush: Wide Neck Describe the Perfect Date: Chuck-e- O: Andrew has the best ideas, and even when they’re
Describe the Perfect Date: A long 37¾ Cheese pizza and a scary movie difficult to do, he finds a way, which is really inspiring
mile walk on the beach, except my date Turn-ons: tutor me in math, lip sync on and uplifting to me personally.
is carrying me cause my legs are broken snapchat, mouth breather, smells like What is your biggest pet peeve about one another?
A: I try to help him, but he never listens.
Turn-ons: Griz, boys who wear cross mayo
O: He’s really, really bad at sarcasm.
chains, Griz wearing a cross chain Turn-offs: Algebra 2, non airpod users,
What do you think the other’s pet peeve about you
Turn-offs: milk, same-side sitters, long over 2.0 GPA is?
hair A: I don’t know, maybe I’m not as social as he is?
O: I laugh at almost anything, making it nearly impos-
What’s Hot /What’s Not sible to get anything done.
Typical hangout?
• Sweet Victory • Sicko Mode A: Either my house or Sheetz
O: Sheetz on Babcock
• Dove Chocolate• Hershey’s
Things you share?
A: An enjoyment of creating videos
O: A fear of leaving NHTV and high school in general
• Olav and • Drake and behind
Weird habits?
Andrew Josh A: He finds dumb things funny. Especially farting.
O: He doesn’t stop singing “The Gambler” by Kenny
• Ted Bundy Tapes • Birdbox
Rogers, whether it be in the car, in person, or over
voice call.
• High-rise jeans • Low-rise jeans
• Going to THON • Not going to
THON
page 15The Arrowhead
SPORTS
Sitting Down with Virginia Tech Commit
Sam Hillegas
BY IAN KELLER
Recently, North Hills’ very own Sam Hillegas announced his commitment
to the Virginia Tech D1 Wrestling Program. The 2x state champion is only
a junior, but the decision seemed very clear to him. Sam said he was look-
ing for “a place that felt like home, somewhere I could succeed in wrestling
and academically, and a team with with good people that I’ll be spending
my time with.” Virginia Tech fit these specifications for Sam. Sam looks
forward to winning a NCAA Championship for his team and individually
in college along with graduating with a major in engineering/construction
management. The choice was clear to him, and even as a junior he believes
nothing could have changed his mind.
Currently, Sam sits at a “mediocre” 108-1 high school record and is a top
10 ranked wrestler in the country for his weight class. Sam doesn’t allow
his one loss to get him down, however. Sam says, “I learned from the out-
come of that match. Not just wrestling-wise, but I need to have more faith
and pride in myself. I know I can wrestle with the top guys in the coun-
try.” This has also taught him “discipline, hard work, and to fight through
tough times physically and mentally.” Sam knows that there is always room
for improvement in wrestling. He recognizes some of his strengths and
weaknesses. Sam believes he can improve on his pace, which is wearing his
opponent down throughout the match until they give up or gas up. Sam
says his strengths are “scrambling and top.” This year he will wrestle in the
132 lb weight class and has future goals to make a world team and win a photo courtesy of Virginia Tech Wrestling
D1 Championship.
Sam finds his sources of inspiration from several sports heroes and mo- Sam’s Sports Profile
tivational speakers, including Jordan Burroughs, Muhammad Ali, Dave
Schultz, and Inky Johnson. Despite wrestling since he was in kindergarten,
Grade: 11
Sam has only RKO’d one person- his brother- into a swimming pool. If Nickname: “Slammin’ Sammy”
a career in engineering or coaching do not work out for Sam, he says he Sport: Wrestling
would consider the UFC. He admits, “I don’t like getting punched in the Years Playing: 12
face, but if it pays a lot, I’ll do it.” Sam looks forward to his college career at
Virginia Tech and finishing off his high school career with hopefully a few Favorites Sports Movie: Kicking &
more championships. Screaming or Remember the Titans
Favorite Childhood Sports Memory: Either
any state title or driving to Utah and stopping
to train at Iowa
Favorite Sports Drink: Vitamin Water Ac-
tive/Chocolate milk
Go-to Song Before Matches: “God’s
Gonna Cut You Down” by Johnny Cash
Pre-game Ritual: Refuel with some food,
good workout until I sweat and then listen to
some music or an inspirational video while
stretching
page 16 photo courtesy of TribLiveYou can also read
