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Before Never

story by Brooke Staashelm

The time has come again, the last few days of summer come to a close while the memories are still so vivid in our minds. For many this is a new beginning, the start of late nights that

lead into the early mornings cramming for exams, when we would much rather be binge watching our favorite Netflix series. The excitement of one to one laptops coming in January fills our head in hopes of making summer reading assignments and projects easier on not only the students but the teachers as well. Google Classroom becomes a more familiar and frequent visiting spot for students to keep up in the class in result of the laptops. But, for some this is the beginning of all the last high school traditions, college and scholarship applications are never ending and the thought that growing up is in the near future. This is our year. Our year to learn from our mistakes, make new memories that will last a lifetime, this is the time where the fastest four years of our life go in the blink of an eye. The saying “Don’t Blink” sets in as we soon realize high school is just a short season of our life. As the day arrives for us students to get our schedules, we arrive to the counselors’ office to eliminate that one dreaded class but soon find out there are no schedule changes, unless our reasons apply to the new requirements. We scavenge our brains for a last minute excuse that fits the rules, but in the end we realize we will just have to stick out the course and hope it will benefit us in the future.

The high pitch sound of our alarm reminds us to jump out of bed for our first day back to school. The start of the school day traditions have quickly arrived. We brush our teeth, get dressed and eat breakfast hoping to get a beneficial start to our day. We grab our backpacks filled with fresh college ruled notebooks, and number two pencils that we rushed to find the night before, and run out the door. The struggle to find a parking spot will soon be gone thanks to the newly added 250 stalls. Reality fills our minds as we take the long walk from the dirty lot to the front doors. We realize not only the freshmen are using a map to find their way around the school but upperclassmen too, as the struggle to find newly built classrooms in the hallways settles in. We walk down the hallways seeing all of our friends that we haven’t seen all summer, along with some new faces that we are excited to meet. Soon the long day of lectures over the syllabus and classroom expectations will be over and all of the hard work will begin. The countless page papers in Research Methods will be started and the struggle to find the nearest printer kiosk will sink in.

We eagerly await the Fridays with early morning donuts, the late stadium filled nights full of football, and of course the Back to School Dance that always welcomes in the new school year. No matter how hard it is to get back into our school sleep schedule, or finding the motivation to sit down and do the countless hours of AP homework, we are excited to see what this year will entail and what memories we will create. As we settle into your new classes along with new routines we realize that with all of the new changes, and all the new beginnings this school year be Like Never Before.

004004

splash of summer Swimming with the dolphins senior Samantha Wilkins laughs with joy. This is the second time she has swam with dolphins in Puerto Morelos Mexico. “I could not stop smiling thoughout the whole time I was in the water,” Wilkins said. “This experience was the best by far, it was so much fun.”european vacation Gazing through a telescope, senior Madeline Loofe admires the beautiful European views. Loofe went with family and friends to many different locations in Europe. “We went to Paris, London, and Bordeaux,” Loofe said. “My favorite part was bike riding in Bordeaux and if I were to go back again I would take more tours of the cities and visit more museums.”a home away from home Taking strides along Saint Augustine beach, junior Aitana Gilot prepares to surf. Gitlot’s family drove to Florida in June to visit her uncle. “I did a lot of surfing and spent most days on the beach,” Gilot said. “I missed the beach, and I always feel at home there.”working for a cause Prepared to use glue junior Andrew Gibson focuses on the task at hand. Gibson and his church travelled to Charleston, West Virginia for a mission trip through his church. “My main goal was rebuliding a back porch,” Gibson said. “This included repainting the floor, replacing the roof, replacing the gutter, painting and re-nailing the lattice, and other work like caulking windows.”

Anticipation is all anyone is feeling at 3:14 on the last day of school. Finally the bell rings after the longest sixty seconds of our lives and we are at last free from the demading hours school requires. The time for vacations, zoo visits, and relaxation has finally come. No more worksheets, AP essays, or readings are due. Nothing planned but fun. We see the posts on Instagram and Twitter of people canoeing and kayaking on all sorts of lakes, seeing the world with family and friends, and even swimming with dolphins. Those of us at home are exreamly jealous that we are not also in paradise. Countless hours are spent trying to win Call of Duty or binge watching the newest season of our favorite show on Netflix. All just to pass time because we have nothing better to do. We write endless bucketlists promising to treat ourselves, run a 5k, or sleep on a trampoline. But then we never actually do it because summer turns out to be busier than we expect. Time with friends is limited. College World Series games call to us baseball fans to cheer on our favorite team. Some of us do not miss a single game, and others only go to the homerun derby.

Then there are those of us who are working endless hours trying to save for our dream college, a car, or the new iPhone 7 we want so badly. Or the people volunteering to get hours in for churches or to make resumes and scholarship applications look better. Procrastination starts on Honors English and AP Lang and Lit classes summer reading assingments. We hope and pray that our teachers are lenient and give us extra time to get it done, and most of the time they do. Athletes are stuck at school working out,lifting weights, and running early in the morning preparing for the new sports seasons to come in the fall and winter. All with such high aspirations to make the varsity team. Towards the end of summer, we decided to finally prepare for school to start. We accept that the time for making up for sleep, creating tanlines, and endless relaxation is over. We start to worrying about grades, drama with friends, and constantly being busy with extracurriculars. The time to soak up the remainder of summer is now, because the bell is about to ring and start a new year as wildcats.

story by Alexis Novacek

photo by Brooke Staashelm

photo courtesy of Lauren Loofe photo courtesy of Lauren Hayes photo courtesy of Alexis Johnson

summerphoto courtesy of Samantha Wilkins 005Summer

008008 Summer vacations 009summer

the globeTOuring

Students travel the world exploring new places and adventuring throughout various countries

“I went on a trip to San Francisco with Eric Rodgers’ family. We did a lot of walking around the Bay Area and went across the Golden Gate Bridge a few times. We took a tour boat to Alcatraz Island and did a lot of sightseeing around there. I definitely enjoyed watching the street performers, but it was really fun taking a segway tour around the whole city at night. We also did a lot of walking around Chinatown and the Castro District.”

“New York is very crowded and involves a lot of walking. We did

quite a bit of touristy things, such as hanging out in Times Square,

visiting the Statue of Liberty and seeing the 9/11 Memorial. We also

went to a Yankees’ game. The weather was great so we were able to swim and tan on the rooftop of

our hotel, which was really cool. I’m glad I got to experience this with my best friend, Paige Clarke.”

Brooke Artz ‘17

Cory Grieb ‘18

“This was my first time traveling internationally. We were out of the country for about a week and I got to experience a lot of cool things in

Puerto Vallarta that I couldn’t do back home. I was with my family and

everyday was a new adventure. We went to a water park and got to zip

line over it. We also went to the beach and took a boat tour where the water was super clear. You could see all the

fish and I had the opportunity to swim with dolphins. I think my favorite part was probably trying all the different

seafoods and all the free food.” Ashlynn Harnisch ‘18

“I traveled to Croatia with my mom, dad and brother. We spent our mornings

at the beach enjoying the warm water and the ocean breeze. Every day we

would explore the castle walls, and our evenings consisted of sightseeing. One

day we took a trip to Slovenia and tried all kinds of different foods. Some

other days we went kayaking in the Adriatic Sea and while we were there

stopped for lunch in a sea cave. It felt almost magical.”

Maya Day ‘18

“Rome is a beautiful city, with beautiful architecture. There was at least one historical landmark every mile or so. Aside from falling in love with the city, my other favorite part of Rome was the Colosseum. I would have to say, it looks way cooler in person. The food was amazing and authentic Italian pasta is 100 times better than Olive Garden. By the end of our Rome getaway, I met an Italian waitress that I still talk to today, which I think that is pretty awesome.”Caleb Homolka ‘18

“During my trip to Cozumel, my family did a lot of adventurous activities. Starting at the beginnging of the day my dad, brother and I went scuba diving. Later we went around to the shops looking for souvenirs to take home. As I was walking around the island I constantly saw iguanas and lizards roaming around. It was weird to me, but normal to the Cozumel natives. I met a few Spanish speaking people on my vacation. Considering I take Spanish, I tried to understand what they were saying so I could have a conversation with them. It was a cool experience and I’d be interested in going back.”Daniel Sullivan ‘20

“On this trip I was with my mother and father. We traveled through Barcelona for four days and then flew to Seville for five days. These were two beautiful cities in Spain. I was there for a whole month touring around the country. Seville was stunning and the people were so kind, always trying to help even if they didn’t understand us. It’s so different from the United States because everyone was so laid back and didn’t have a worry in the world. The people were my favorite part. However, the architecture was spectacular and finding our way through the city was like getting lost in a maze. It was such a great adventure and I would absolutely go back. This experience made me want to travel abroad.” Alexis Carder ‘19

022022 back to school dance 0231st semester

As the first week of school came to an end, students rushed to get things together

for the Back to School Dance. One of those students was senior Caden Frank.

Frank and his friends dressed up as camp counselors. They all wore tie dye shirts and denim shorts. With this being his last Back to School Dance, he wanted to make it one to remember.

“We decided to dress up as this because one of my friends really loved the idea,” Frank said. “My friend found the idea on Pinterest. We all agreed on it and went from there.”

Frank and his friends all met up and took pictures at his house. While taking pictures, they made a human pyramid before they left for the dance.

“We didn’t have too many issues getting everyone on the pyramid until I was put on top,” junior Ryan Rogers said. “ I was the smallest one in our group, so it only made sense for me to be on top, but it sure was a struggle getting up there.”

Due to the fun that they were having taking picutes and making pyramids, they lost track of time. When they got to the dance they didn’t have the easiest time getting in.

“When we got there, there was a huge line that we waited in line for a good 20 minutes just to get up to the door and get breathalyzed,”Frank said. “Luckily, they didn’t play too good of jams before we arrived.”

He moved and grooved to the beat despite some of the annoyances that he faced. Frank and his buddies weren’t pleased with the lights being on almost the entire dance, but they overlooked it and still made the dance enjoyable.

“The lights being on weren’t going to stop us from busting out our dance moves,” Frank said.“This was our last and final Back to School bash, and we weren’t about to ruin it by complaining.”

Frank almost never left the middle to take a break. He danced with tons of people, some he knew and others he didn’t. His friends found it hilarious, but the people he danced with not so much.

“It was pretty amusing to watch him,” senior Michael Taylor said. “He was dancing with everyone in sight. Multiple people were getting frustrated with him and yelling at him.”

Frank enjoyed the whole dance, but his favorite part was at the end. The last song came on and that’s when he really busted out his best moves.

“My favorite part of the actual dance was when the last song came on,” Frank said. “Everyone danced together, jumped up and down and laughed, it was like all of us students were one big happy family.”

Even though he got everything ready last minute this was a night that would never be forgotten. Frank wanted to make a big bang as his last Back to School Dance and have the best time of his life, and that’s exactly what he did.

Senior gets down on the dance floor at last B2SDstory by Jordan McCormick, Erin Ruzicka & Josie Wilmert

“This year I dressed up with all of the senior girls as a punk rock chick. All of us met in the parking lot an hour early. We took pictures and listened to music. This was hands down my favorite B2SD yet. I loved dancing with all of my friends and my boyfriend because we spent all night breaking it down on the dance floor.” Jocelyn Leblanc ‘17

“This year instead of dressing up as something for my pleasure, my friends and I came up with something creative in order to impress Mr. Royers. We dressed up in bright colors and carried piñatas and sticks. Our hard work for making something creative paid off because Mr. Royers Tweeted saying that we stood out due to our creativity.”Dayna Berry ‘17

“Even though all the senior girls went as punk rock people I decided to break away from all the other senior girls and go as Dwight Schrute, my favorite character from the show The Office. I brought beets with me as an accessory, but not long after I arrived people were eating them. I made a lot of new friends due to my costume and beets. I think Dwight Schrute would be very proud of me.” Claire Lagemann ‘17

party onqAs sweat drops to the floor, senior Caden Frank dances the night away at the Back to School Dance. Frank didn’t care

what any one had to say about him that night, as long as he was having fun. “ I danced and danced and danced,” Frank said.” “I danced with

anyone and everyone, in order to get everyone involved and having fun.”

don’t stop dancing Grooving to the beat, senior Alyssa Mannschreck dances her way through the crowd at the B2SD. It was Mannshrecks last B2SD hurrah, so she made the best of it.“My favorite part of the dance was at the end when everyone was in a circle surrounding the middle of the dance floor, dancing to the song “Dont Stop Believing,’” Mannschreck said. “It really was a good way to get all of the students at Millard West dancing and having fun.”x marks the dance floor Enjoying his last B2SD, senior Samuel Brown dances the night away with all his fellow Wildcats. Brown had been to four Back to School Dances, but this one was his favorite. “ For the dance my friend and I got white T-shirts and painted a black ‘X’ on them to go as the X-Men,” Brown said. “Freshmen and sophomore year were fun because the lights were off, but even though they weren’t this year I still had a blast.”unique or chique Laughing and smiling big, sophomore Megan Grover dances at the B2SD. She dressed up in a costume that she was excited to share with others. “My dress was inspired by my favorite movie Alice in Wonderland,” Grover said. “It was an outfit that I knew no one would have which made me even more excited to show it off.”

1. Jacob Weinand, Logan Taft, Jackson Meier Parker Tworek, Caleb Loberg, Werner Rangel, Connor McDonnell & Noah Senden 2. McKenzie Harvey & Brooke DeWispelaer 3. Eryn Reesmen & Peyton Young 4. Brinley Trout & Brea Stenger 5. Marah Kocovsky & Reegan Spicer 6. Cassie Hallgren, Jessica Burd, Madison Titus & Autumn O’Keefe 7. Jennifer Ecklund & Ashley Bush 8. Peyton Davis 9. Erin Ruzicka, Skylar Gracey & Jordan McCormick 10. Rachel White & Amara Rodis

just

bustFirst Let Me Take Selfie

a move 1

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photos by Emma Lueck022022 back to school dance 0231st semester

047Fall sports

In the bat of an eye, the new school year is upon them. Athletes tie up their cleats, preparing for the race ahead of them. The shot of a pistol rings through the ears of cross country runners, but their heartbeat soon overpowers it. Sprinting through the season, colors of trees change with each step, and their mark on the school is left in their tracks. Sunlight gleams at the end of the path and a sight of their goal appears; two state titles for both teams. After a sickly hot summer where their sweaty hands slipped out of their gloves, they’re ready for the cool mornings and late nights in the dugout. Broken bonds during the summer soon mesh back together and new players are welcomed to the family. They’re home now. They bleed black and green, living for those late friday nights where the lights of the stadium seem brighter than the sun. The crisp air during playoffs makes their game faces look even colder. With the game only seconds from being over, everything goes in slow motion. A muffled sound of the student section drives them to make that next tackle, catch that next pass, and score another

touchdown to win the game. It’s all about heart. When their racket gives them agonizing blisters and their arms grow weak, they keep pushing. The love for the sport defeats the obstacles holding them back from getting one step closer to victory. Support the team, fight for the school. The shine of the new wooden gymnasium floor doesn’t block their eyesight when going up for a kill. Instead, it makes the team look even more proffessional and intimidating. The lights from the newly installed score boards portray numbers that outweigh one another. Home team always winning, up until the last game of districts. Cyclers rush to the finishline, their legs feeling more like worms with each pedal. Hours on hours of practices and trails finally pay off at the end of their season. Two students pass their rivals, leaving them in the dust and winning State titles. Nothing can keep them from reaching their full potential. Fall sports season is here, and the athletes are ready to take it on like never before.

fall sports

story by Annaliese Punt

photo by Catherine Cowellphoto by Catherine Cowellphoto by Camryn Larsen

photo by Catherine Cowell

run your heart out Following the path ahead of him, senior Seth Hirsch braces himself for the rest of the race. Since he was ten, running had been a huge aspect in his life. He had fallen in love with it at a young age, and continued to fall during each race. “Cross country combines both the team and individual aspect,” Hirsch said. “It’s a sport where the harder you work, the more successful you’ll be.”strut Striking a pose, sophomore Anna Hallett dances on the football field. For multiple years, Hallett had danced for her studio and enjoyed every second of it, high school was a whole different experience. “I loved dancing at half time of the football games,” Hallett said. “It’s something most people don’t get to do.”ALL in Swinging for the ball, junior Adria Allen aims for the outfield. Ever since her freshman year, Allen had played softball for the school and made new friends every year. “I like fall sports, softball in particular, because it’s a really fun start to the school year,” Allen said. “You go into the year knowing a lot of people.”BELT to the endzone Racing to the endzone, junior Brody Belt tries his hardest not to get tackled. Being a runningback, Belt had to learn the ropes of the field to make sure he could get through the holes to score a touchdown. “Fall sports changed me because football has made me who I am today,” Belt said. “I wouldn’t be with all my friends and here now without football.”

046046

048048 varsity football

keep calm and fight on Not able to play all season, senior Jack Aniello has had to fight his own battle. “The support that I have recieved from everyone at Millard West, my friends and my family has made this whole process so much easier to go through, rather than just doing it all by myself. It really means a lot to have the support from the school.” BACK

WE’VE GOT your

Senior battling Lymphoma has non-stop support from his family, friends and fans©

Cheering together in support of senior Jack Aniello, the student section refused to let

him stand this battle alone.Aniello was diagnosed with

Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in the beginning of the school year and had to stop playing football to focus on treatment to regain his health. The student section wore all green when playing Omaha Bryan to show their love and support for the Aniello family.

“It was such a cool and memorable experience to see all the students wearing green for me,” Aniello said. “I had no idea that I had that much support from within the school and it meant a lot to see them all there at the game.”

KMTV news came out to Buell Stadium to record this event. The interview impacted them not only emotionally, but with the reminder of how much support they have around them.

“Having KMTV come and interview me and my dad before the game was an awesome time,” Aniello said. “Having this much support from everyone is super helpful for me during what might be my last month of treatment, hopefully.”

The Wildcat Crazies announced the “Green Out” football theme over Twitter to all of the fans and the

notifcations went wild. Many students were retweeting, liking and spreading the word. All of the local new stations contacted Aniello’s father and asked him about this upcoming event.

Jack’s father, Anthony Aniello, even responded to the ‘MWHS Crazies’ account saying, “You guys are awesome! Thanks from a grateful dad.”

Jack’s twin brother, senior Benjamin Aniello had been his biggest support. The two were each other’s number one fans and had their backs through it all.

“The Bryan game made me really proud to be a part of this school and be part of this team,” Benjamin Aniello said. “Being able to see my brother when coming off the field to find him clapping really makes me happy.”

Coaches and teammates enjoyed having Jack with them throughout the games. He came to every practice and game to support the football team through everything.

“It’s very special to have a kid and family on my team dealing with such a scary situation, ” coach Kirk Peterson said. “Our team is the whole definition of a real team. Our team cares more about each other than themselves and that’s what brings them close together.”

Fighting through all of the battles ahead, Jack’s fight with cancer will last until the end of his treatment with the support of his family and friends.

story by Lauren Loofe & Jessica Kistaitis

“Getting a chance to play both offense and special teams in every game, and it’s nice knowing that the team has my back no matter what.” Justin Summers ‘17

“Being able to be on the varsity team and starting on the defensive line this year has been a really big accomplishment for me.”Connor Ekborg ‘18

“Being able to work as a team to win and go undefeated in our district has been my greatest accomplishment.”Nathan Ruzicka ‘17

“This season I have felt most accomplished in maintaining my spot as a starting long snapper and having a supportive team makes me feel like my hard work pays off.”Joshua Lasauskas ‘18

“My biggest accomplsihment for this season is being a lock down coner, meaning the other teams don’t want to throw the ball to my side.”Tyler Bandiera ‘18

Wha

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practice makes perfect Kicking his second of seven total field goals

for the night, senior Jacob Wolfe helped raise the score against Lincoln Southwest.

The Wildcats won 49-0 on that chilly Friday night and they never let up against the

Silverhawks. “It is such a fun experience being a kicker for the football team because of all the support I receive from the coaches and

my teammates,” Wolfe said. “I love being able to teach people who don’t know that much about my position what I contribute to the

team and also being able to make people appreciate my position.”

endzone enjoymentSenior Frank Scharff and junior Hunter

Schnuerle celebrate after a touchdown while they enjoy the few memorable moments that they had left playing together. The teams first two games took place against their two rival schools, Millard South and Millard North.

“Going into those two games, as a senior, I realized that it could be my last time playing

them,” Scharff said. “That made the games much more special and made me want to

prepare and practice harder even more than usual.”

breaking free Making a break for the endzone, senior Dawson Samler scored his first touchdown of the season for the Wildcats. The student section and all of the fans went crazy the whole game. “When I am playing football, all I think about is how it is my job and I need to get it done,” Samler said. “When I score a touchdown, it is very exciting to look up in the stadium stands and see everyone screaming and cheering for me. It is also a really great feeling seeing all of my teammates get pumped up when I score.”

SENIORS“My favorite part of the season making memories with the guys and being able to go out every game and have fun with my teammates.”Joshua Wallace’17

JUNIORS

SOPHOMORES

“The games are my favorite part of the season because the atmosphere really excites me. I enjoy being able to see the big crowd.”Wyliam Wyatt’17

“The Millard South game was really fun to be able to play since it was my senior year. We played really well and there were a lot of people there.”Tanner Kalb’17

“My favorite part of the season was the adrenal rush that I had waking up Friday morning all the way to the game that friday night.”Giavonni Guido’18

“Being able to be with my friends and play with my friends really made my year on varisty the best. I enjoyed being able to make memories and share bonds.”Austin Harris’18

“I really enjoy being able to play with my friends and being able gain new friendships. I also enjoy the atmo-sphere throughout the stadium.”Brody Belt’18

“This season I really enjoyed being able to play in varsity games and be able play with all my friends and meet new friends on varsity.”Patrick Conner Carroll’19

“My favorite part was the first game against Millard Soouth because it was my first time suiting up for varsity and ruunning on the field with the crowd was really exciting.”Jacob Harmdierks’19

“My favorite part of the season was when I got to play against Bellevue West because I got to play in one of the biggest games of the year.”Jackson Wright’19

photo by Lauren Loofe

photo by Lauren Loofe

photo by Catherine Cowell

photo by Camryn Larsen photo by Catherine Cowell photo by Catherine Cowell photo by Catherine Cowell photo by Catherine Cowell

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photo by Emma Lueck

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photo by Lauren Loofe

049Fall sports

051fall sports

restrictions Crazies stuck with specific restrictions for the new football season

With each new school year comes new restrictions and rules. Since they

were typically toward the students, it was a shock to see them directed toward the Wildcat Crazies.

In past years, Crazies were allowed to scream and run around on the track portion of the field. Facing the student section, they could also start games such as the rollercoaster and lead the crowd in chants.

“I made the change because there are already too many people on the track,” activities director Christopher Loofe said. “It has become a safety concern.”

Since the cheerleaders started stunting at football games, the track is full of their coaches, mascot students and

photographers. Having the Crazies run around and act rambunctious was too much of a distraction and could possibly lead to an injury for the cheerleaders.

The 11 Crazies were no longer allowed to stand on the track while the ball was alive and were required to stay in the stands with the rest of the section. Many other guidelines were enforced, but this was the one that made the biggest difference in what they could and could not do.

“We can’t be in front of the cheerleaders, we can’t do certain themes, and we can’t paint our bodies or bring paint or baby powder,” senior Bailey St. Clair said. “It stinks because they’re all Millard West traditions.”

Although the Crazies were not too

fond of the new rules at the beginning of the season, they soon adapted to them. Being crazy on the track was no longer an option, so they would have to bring the spirit into the stands.

“It was kind of a struggle when we first heard of the new restrictions,” senior Christian Hall said. “We had so many plans for the football season and we had to get rid of a lot of them.”

This year, they took advantage of their megaphones while doing the school chants and used whiteboards to announce them before they screamed.

“It really limits our ability to pump up the crowd,” St. Clair said. “We have to come up with things that are more creative.”

Crazies had always been known to

be the leaders of the crowd, but this year they struggled with not being able to pump up the crowd from the track.

The leadership this year had to be taken into the student section, and it was a new experience for everyone. Having the Crazies side-by-side with every other student was a new sight.

“Being in the stands and not on the track has no affect on our section whatsoever,” Hall said. “We are still as crazy as ever and have the best section in this state.”

Regardless of the startling new restrictions, the student section remains one of the craziest crowds around. The Wildcat Crazies would not let the spirit die down.

story by Annaliese Punt

crazy new beginningsWaving the flag as the team takes the field, senior Brandon Hargis is proud to be a Crazy. Hargis wanted to be a Crazy after he heard all of the stories from his brother, who was a Crazy in 2013. Hargis picked up old traditions and created new ideas with the help of his older brother. Soon-to-be-Crazies watched Hargis and learned traditions from him, as he did from his brother. Hargis and the Crazies organized a cookout before every home game. Upperclassmen gathered at Walnut Grove Park to grill out and play tailgate games. “The feeling of being able to follow in my brother’s footsteps is unexplainable,” Hargis said. “It is a great ending to my high school career to be able to be a leader for my school and fellow peers. Not only that, but to cheer on our Wildcat sports and activities in a whole new way.”

HALLer

for th

e cats

Chantin

g in the

megapho

ne, sen

ior Chri

stian

Hall make

s memora

ble moment

s witho

ut reali

zing

it. Hall w

anted

to end

his high

school

career w

ith

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. “Being

a Crazy

has m

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reat,”

Hall sai

d. “It g

ets me in

volved

in all th

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l’s

activit

ies.”

we wan

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ream an

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ut

Celebra

ting a t

ouchdo

wn, sen

iors Ba

iley St

Clair, B

riann

a Rog

ers an

d Kay

lie Cline

ff

reflect

how f

ar they

came. B

y the la

st game of

the sea

son the

y perfe

cted ch

ants an

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he

crowd

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e’ve ha

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rent op

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but we

all have

the sam

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Rodge

rs said.

“Suppo

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the bo

ys and

helping

the cro

wd hav

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d time

brings u

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the la

st ho

o-rah

Jumping

around

, senior

Tyler

Heiman

celebra

tes his

last nig

ht to su

pport t

he foo

tball

team. He

iman was t

he only

senior

who ha

s been a

mascot f

or all fo

ur years

of high

school.

“It’s n

ice

being a

senior,”

Heiman s

aid. “I l

ike the

fact th

at I

can tea

ch the

undercl

assmen t

o do w

hat I d

o.”

“I am a mascot because I get to go to every game and cheer on my team in a fun and exciting way. It is different than just standing in the student section.” Zoie Evans ‘20

“I tried out to be a mascot becasue it looked fun. My goal is to be a good mascot for everyone to see and to get the crowd as hype as I possibly can.”Austin Lempke ‘20

“I joined the mascot team for the expierence. I have always had stage fright and being the mascot, though you can not see me, it has helped me get over it.”Sydney Lohr ‘20

“I love being able to get the crowds hype. It’s fun being able to support Millard West and act crazy without judgement. My goal is to go on to be a Crazy next year.”Leah Newell ‘18

Wild Willie

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photo by Catherine Cowell

photo by Catherine Cowell

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050050 crazies/mascots

056056 Varsity Softball

Being a part of a team throughout high school was a proven benefit for teenagers.

Junior Samantha Alm and senior Logan Black were a part of the same team and were lucky enough to know what their plans for after high school were.

The girls had been given the opportunity to continue playing softball throughout college at Creighton University. Alm verbally committed during her freshman year and Black her junior year.

“I visited the campus and instantly knew it was the right fit for me,” Alm said. “It felt more homey because it’s a smaller school. The girls on the team also told me I’ll never find someone that cares more about each one of the players more than Coach Brent Vigness, the head coach. I look forward to playing with them and traveling to new places.”

Having made the decision to attend Creighton was somewhat easy for the girls due to the connections they had. Meeting the team and coaches also influenced their decision because they were welcoming and showed interest in the soon-to-be teammates.

“When I visited, the team and the coaches were so welcoming that I instantly felt right at home,” Black said. “I already know and have played with

some of the girls on the team, so that helped make the decision a lot easier.”

After both of the girls had committed, Alm and Black grew even closer. With the support of their head coach, Donald Brummer, the girls gained excitement to play together beyond the varsity high school team.

“Being able to continue their bond into college will definitely affect the girls positively because they are such good friends.” Brummer said. “The girls have a very strong bond and are great teammates to everyone. I am very proud to be their coach and glad that a part of their future is decided.”

The reality of the companionship between the two girls was exactly how it appeared.

“Sam and I are extremely close and have gotten even closer since I committed to go to Creighton,” Black said. “There is no one else I would rather play softball with right now or in the future. She’s an amazing player and role model and I can’t wait to play with her for three years following the high school team.”

Both Alm and Black enjoyed playing on the field together and with the rest of their team. Luckily for these girls, their friendship on and off the field didn’t have to come to an end after high school.

“I like catching because I am involved in each play during the inning and in some ways I get to control the field. Although I feel a lot of pressure on the field because one small error can cause your team to lose a game, it’s a privilege given to me and can only make me better as an athlete.” Abigail Konz ‘18

“I like to do the handshake before each inning because it gets me pumped for the inning and sets my mind straight for the game. We do it before every inning since the start of the season. It is like a superstition, so if we don’t follow through with it, it feels wrong.” Honnah Leo ’20

“I feel really happy and proud when my teammates or I hit a home run. I love all of the support my teammates give each other. We also always look forward to celebrating the homeruns we form into a tunnel when one of us girls hits a homerun.”Lexie Black ’19

CREIGH-ZY LET’S GET

Two players commit to play as new teammates on the Creighton University softball team story by Amanda Leroux, Alexa Luther & Ashtin Young

photo by Alexa Luther

photo by Catherine Cowell

sliding into victory In order to avoid being tagged out by the opponent at home plate, junior Adria Allen slides into the bag before the catcher could get her out. Due to an error from the other team, which caused an overthrow at third base, Allen was given the opportunity to strategize and run from second base all the way to home plate before the other team could get a hold of the ball. In order to score another run for her team, she used the skills she’s learned throughout her life to slide successfully into home plate. “When I am running through the bases, I try to see if I can get the best angle possible on the bag so I can push off really hard in order to get a boost,” Allen said. “If I end up having to slide into a base, I listen for what side of the bag my coaches tell me they think would be best to slide on, either inside or outside.”

save the best for last As senior Lauren Loofe protects first base during her last pre-season scrimmage, she and her teammates practice using the skills that are required to be successful in the upcoming season. Loofe focused in on the pitch while still attempting to prevent her opponent from advancing on to second base. Loofe, having been on the varsity team since her freshman year, cherished every bit of time that she had left with her fellow teammates and enjoyed the authority of seniority. “Being a senior on the team is a really neat experience,” Loofe said. “Getting to make some decisions on our team’s behalf and to be super close with the coaches and all the younger players is a great part of it. It is also very sad knowing that after the fast nine-week season is over, I will be done playing softball forever.”

Time on the fieldMost wonderful

“I like the intensity and the pressure of the pitcher versus batter. My proudest moment of batting is getting my first varsity hit off of a really strong Papillion pitcher. My main focus while batting is to win and do what ever I can to advance the batters already on base. Olivia Richardson ’20

“The best part of being a pitcher is striking people out. I love to feel the pressure that comes along with pitching. I decided to become a pitcher nine years ago because I thought that it would be fun to learn all the different pitches and to take control of the game.” Hanna Cress ’19

As I am up to bat, I try not to think a lot because if I start thinking about it too much, it just messes me up. The only thing I think is “see ball, hit ball”. When I am running bases, I focus on the judgement of the catcher and how far and fast they can throw the ball. Kaitlin Lesmeister ‘17

“I decided to become an outfielder because I have always played outfield so it’s not a new experience for me. There were open spots in the field that I could fill. The other oufielders and I are very close. We even have our own handshake and routines that other players don’t. Marissa Salazar ’18

Alexis Swift ‘18

“I enjoy having to dive for the ball because it

makes the play feel more intense and

interesting.”

“The best part of being a catcher is being able to see what’s going on

anywhere on the field.”

Mackenzie Dickmeyer ‘19

photo by Catherine Cowell

photo by Catherine Cowell

“When I am batting, I find it

essential to stay calm. First, I look at

the coaches for a sign, then I take a practice swing and

fix my batting gloves. As I step into the box, I take a deep breath and tap the outside corner of the plate with my bat. Finally, I get into my loading stance to prepare for the

upcoming pitch.

Sarah Feuker ‘20

photo by Amanda Lerouxphoto by Catherine Cowell

“I love the competitiveness that comes with

running bases. It’s really challenging,

but exciting.”

Zarah Sagheer ‘19

photo by Catherine Cowell

shake and break After throwing a successful pitch, senior Logan Black is backed up by third baseman, junior Samantha Alm. The infielders had enjoyed being a part of the varsity team since their freshmen year. “I really enjoy being a part of the team because of the competitiveness,” Alm said. “I love how it is always a different challenge each game.”

photo by Ashtin Young photo by Catherine Cowell

057Fall sports photo by Catherine Cowell

136136 unified bowling 137winter sports

knock em down getting ready to release his bowling ball, freshman Joseph Drawl focuses on the lane in front of him. Drawl had some previous experience in bowling with his family before he joined the Unified Bowling team. “I loved getting to bowl on Tuesdays and Thursdays,” Drawl said. “I got to hang out with all my friends.”

Unified Bowling team creates lasting traditions

Traditions can be seen in many different aspects in a game. Whether it be a good luck

handshake, a pep talk, or even a snack that you eat prior to the game. Traditions are everywhere and that was no different for the members of the first Unified Bowling season. As the members of the team wrapped up the day after the first practice they gathered in a huddle to discuss how the day had gone. Earlier that day, some of the coaches and members of the team tried to figure out a chant that could be used throughout the season to motivate the whole group. By the end of the school day the chant ‘Whose house? Our House’ was created.

The chant, that would be a defining moment throughout the course of the season, was yelled at the end of every practice and game.

“Honestly, I searched on google for inspirational bowling chants,” assistant

coach Bret Siepker said. “I found a college bowling team that did it and really liked it and told the rest of the team about it.”

As well as the chant, assistant coach, Bret Siepker created a slogan that helped remind the athletes to just have fun. ‘Pressure Makes Diamonds’ quickly became one of the most memorable moments for the team and helped define the rest of the season.

“I was helping in the ACP room when one of the students told Siepker how she was feeling stressed out for the game,” senior Kaylee Putler said. “He told her ‘Pressure Makes Diamonds’ and I thought it was very inspirational.”

By the end of the season, the team had made many memorable traditions that will stick with each player as memories of the first Unified Bowling season.The traditions proved to be a way for the whole team to come together and and make new memories.

story by Alyssa Mannschreck

Pressure Makes Diamonds

ramp it up While setting up the ramp to get ready for a bowl, senior Demi Deurloo encourages her teammate to do well. Deurloo had never worked with special education students before coming to the United States. “In my country, special needs kids go to a seperate school,” Deurloo said. “I thought that it was awesome that students of all ability levels could go to the same school here.”

eyes on the prizeConcentrating before his turn, sophopmore Hakeem Ferguson does his signature ritual before he bowls. Ferguson was one of the many special education students to get involved in Unified Bowling. “At first I was really nervous about the season,” Ferguson said. “I just made sure my arm was always straight.”

TUNnel of funBefore starting the District competition, junior Adria Allen smiles while running through a tunnel formed by her teammates. The top five bowlers were chosen to represent Millard West at the District match against other teams in the Metro region. “I think we did a grreat job at the dirtrict meet.” Allen said. “We gave it our all and worked well together.”

photo by Kaylee Putler

“I first heard about Unfied Bowling during a West Friends meeting. I go bowling with my family, so I thought joining the team would be a good way to hang out with new people.”Jerryd Busch‘20

“I found out about Unified Bowling when Mrs. Lehms announced it in gym, I thought it sounded like a lot of fun. One of the best parts of the season was beating Tanner.”Makayla Gill‘18

“I am really glad that I decided to join the team after one of the leaders of West Friends told me about it. Bowling has defintley been one of the best parts of my sophomore year.”Rebekah Hitz‘19

“I joined the bowling team so that I could get lots of strikes, it always made me really excited and happy when I got a strike or spare.”Josephine Clark‘19

“I decided to join bowling after Mrs. Lehms suggested it in my gym class. It was a lot of fun and I met a lot of new people that I would not have met otherwise.”McKenna Woodward ‘19

“I wanted to show off my bowling talents and show honor to my school. My favorite part was when I got strikes and spares. It felt good to be a part of a team.”Hunter Houston‘19

“I was happy I got to go to Districts. The best part was when I got 100 strikes I was so excited when I found out I made the team.”Nidal Sharif‘17

“The best part of bowling is seeing how excited everyone gets when the pins fall. I’ve learned to be a better person and bowler by doing this sport.”Tanner Fridrich‘17

THAT”S HOW WE

rollUnified Bowling makes history after being the first unified sport offerred across Nebraska

As the bowling pins fell, so did the barrier that separated the special education and general education students.

This year was unlike anything before. As the typical fall sports began, a new sport was introduced into Millard West and many other schools across Nebraska. Unified Bowling.

Unified Bowling was the very first NSAA sanctioned sport that included students with all ability levels. The goal of the new team was to create an environment so that all the bowlers could feel apart of a team.

“The NSAA mission statement for Unified bowling is dedicated to promoting social inclusion through shared sports,” head coach Jan Lehms said. “Unified Bowling joins people with and without intellectual disabilities.”

The bowling teams were made up of athletes and partners who alternated during a bowling match. An athlete would be a student with a disability, and a partner was someone without.

“I helped the athletes gather their bowling stuff and then we practiced good techniques,” freshman Sophia Hill said. “I was excited about having a Unified sport and I wanted to experience it.”

For every two athletes there were three partners to help the athletes with anything that they needed, whether it be getting a ball or just some words of encouragement.

“My mom told me about the bowling team, and I decided I wanted to do it,” sophomore Joseph Drawl said. “It was such a good feeling whenever I knocked down any pins.”

The team had practice every Tuesday in order to prepare for competition games on Thursdays. The opposing teams ranged from schools all throughout the Omaha.

Practice days consisted of all the members doing different types of drills to help better themselves. Along with the drills, partners and athletes were frequently changed around so that they were able to meet everyone on the team.

“Bowling was the perfect way to kick off my senior year,” senior Alyssa Mannschreck said. “It was so special getting to watch all the athletes participate in a school sport.”

When competition days finally rolled around, the teams bowled to the best of their abilities. To be the overall winner of the bowling match, each school had to count up the total pinfall from all of their teams. The school with the highest amount was deemed the winner.

“The most challenging part is figuring out which combination of athlets and partners can produce the besr score,” Lehms said. “It’s difficult to remember which athletes and partners work well together and who do not.”

The first Unified Bowling season provided new opportunities to meet new people as well as a chance to participate in a high school sport.

story by Kaylee Putler

photo by Alyssa Mannschreck

photo by Alyssa Mannschreck

photo by Reegan Stocker

photo by Kaylee Putler photo by Alyssa Mannschreck photo by Alyssa Mannschreck photo by Kaylee Putler photo by Reegan Stocker photo by Alyssa Mannschreck

photo by Hayley Renkenphoto by Alyssa Mannschreck

photo courtesy David Rochford

Tradition NeverGraduates

140140 Fall play 141Performing Arts

at-it(cus) again In the fall play, senior Jackson Carter’s roll is that of Atticus Finch, the defense attorney for Tom Robinson. This was his second time having a lead role in a production. “In the show I had a big responsibility to grow as a

person, so I could grow as a character,” Carter said. “Hearing how it moved everybody was impactful because we are just a high

school in Nebraska that pulled off such a powerful performance.”robin’ son rehearsal time In the auditorium,

senior Jonathan Hannor performed as Tom Robinson in his first play. Hannor was recruited through his Drama II class. “Jack Carter I would go into the auditorium during our lunch and have

fun rehearsing our parts,” Hannor said. “I can’t narrow it down to one thing I enjoyed the most, both onstage and offstage was

what made the play such a good time.”

you can ’ tunt i l you

mock

Drama Department takes a chance with controversial story

setting the scene

“My favorite part of the play was, well, I just loved the entire story overall. It was beyond impactful and devastating in a beautiful way.”Andrew Gibson ‘18

“Getting ready for the production was incredibly stressful because I had to put on massive amounts of makeup by myself, and spray my entire head with grey hairspray.” Kobe Ready ‘20

nosy neighbors Gossip errupts on stage from junior Molly Davis and sophomore Alexandra Hundt while witnessing Atticus Finch shoot and kill a mad dog. In one way

or another, Davis has participated in many productions. “My favorite part of the show was my ending monologue because

it was really emotional,” Davis said. “It was near the end of the show, so it left a long lasting impression.”

first time’s a charm Sitting on a tire swing sophomore Meghan Schuette chats with on-and-off stage

friend Dill, played by senior Nathan Nevarez. This was Schuette’s first time acting in a play. “I got to stand in Scout’s

shoes during this performance,” Schuette said. “Because of having the role, I learned more about change and how to think

of things through others’ point of view.”

story by Sydney Looney

photo by Emma Lueck

photo by Caitlin Allen

photo by Brooke Staashelm

photo by Brooke Staashelm

photo by Brooke Staashelm

“I worked the light board during the show and I also got to wear the headset when my crew leader had to go on stage. It was a really fun experience.” Amanda Peterson ‘20

“I really enjoyed helping design all the props. It gave me a chance to display my creative side, be apart of a team, and have tons of fun while helping out.”Kaylee Hallgren ‘19

“During the show I worked the spot light, so before every performace I had to make sure everything involving the spot was ready to work properly.” Logan Tunink ‘19

“The makeup crew really helped out in the dressing room because most of us boys were not very experienced with stage makeup, or any makeup in general really.” Grant Mannschreck ‘19

“As a member of the costume crew, I mainly aided the crew chiefs, and when it came to show week, I had to ensure that everyone was clothed and every person’s costume fit correctly.”Abby Vocelka ‘17

“For my show makeup, I had to do a lot of contouring, which was very different from my everyday makeup. It took a lot of practice.”Natalie Brauer ‘19

“Usually in plays an ensemble isn’t necessary, but for To Kill a Mockingbird, it was important to have one to effectively tell the story to the audience. It was special for me to be a part of that role.” Breanna Mack ‘19

“I played the character Mayella who accused Tom Robinson of beating her up and taking advantage of her. My hair and costume were fairly simple, which made hair and makeup preparation less time consuming.” Tianna Barth ‘17

“The enviroment in the dressing room is extremely fun. After you get to know the other cast memebers and connect with them it makes getting ready a really exciting time.” Alexandra Hundt ‘19

“To prepare for the production I went to see To Kill a Mockingbird at the Omaha Play house, I read the novel, and I watched the different versions of the movie.” Tyler Andersen ‘19

photos by Sydney Looney

Shaky knees, sweaty palms and racing hearts were all pre-show norms for the cast and crew of To Kill A Mockingbird. Once

everyone had taken their places, the lights came on, the show started and all of those jitters vanished.

This year’s fall play dealt with many sensitive topics due to the setting. This show took place in Maycomb, Alabama, in 1935.

During this era, racism and discrimination were a problem in the United States. Both of these issues were present in the show. For one actress, this story was different from any other production she has been apart of.

“When we first started rehearsal it felt like we were walking on thin ice,” sophomore Brannon Evans said. “The topics of the show were really controversial but the way we bonded as a cast was really special.”

Evans played the role of Calpurnia, who was the Finch family’s housekeeper. She was one of the

three African American actors cast in the show. “In the play and more so in the book, Calpurnia

is the bridge between the African Americans and the white people in the town,” Evans said. “Knowing that really helped me to be able to play the part of Calpurnia well.”

This production was a big opportunity to teach the people of the community about these events from the past. Helen Robinson, played by sophomore Mercedes Tyler, was one of the characters who helped communicate these lessons.

“During rehearsals I realized that the topics in the show are really important for people to learn about,” Tyler said. “especially here at Millard West because we don’t see racism and discrimination on the daily so people aren’t educated on it.”

Tyler did have some previous acting experience, but this was her first time acting on a live stage. She participated in many acting classes and commercials in earlier years.

“In commercials you are supposed to be very realistic with how you act,” Tyler said. “But when acting on stage you have to be very big with your hand gestures and your emotions, which was a challenge for me.”

Although some people might not agree with doing this show, director Brooke Phillips had many reasons why she wanted to proceed with the production.

“I had a copy of the play sitting around my desk and I read it thinking it could be really good,” Phillips said. “We had some people in our drama department that I thought could play some of the parts, so I decided to persue it.”

Phillips wanted to direct this story because of the powerful messages behind the lines. She thought that the overall meaning behind it brought up an idea that you never really understand a person until you consider things from their point of view, until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.

Tyler Prow ‘18, Tayler Bos ‘19, Brady Klein ‘17, Tyler Andersen ‘19, Grant Mannschreck ‘19 and Majd Nuwarah ‘19

walk

side by side A wimper resonates out into the auditorum as sophomores Mercedes Tyler and Brannon Evans perform one of there final scenes. This was their first time acting together. “Acting along side Brannon really helped me to imrpove,” Tyler said. “I’m grateful we got to have a scene together.”

143performing arts

Three students lead the band to a successful season

This year three band students, seniors Kyle Webber, Emma Powell, and junior Anthony

Palmesano, received the honor of leading the band as drum majors. They were responsible for directing and conducting the band during performances.

Seven people tried out to earn this honor. The process included conducting last years show, calling different commands, and conducting the national anthem.

“Originally my parents forced me to join the band, but I ended up loving it,” Webber said. “It is a big job because it is like you are president. You lead the band.”

While Webber was forced to join the band, Powell joined because she fell in love with the art form of band. Both of her brothers were drum majors before her and continuing their legacy is something that is very special to her.

“The band program has always been like a family to me,” Powell said. “So being able to lead my ‘family’ and represent them at awards and competitions sounded like an incredible honor.”

Since Webber and Powell were seniors, it was Palmesano’s responsibility to learn how to lead the band when they graduated. He practiced often to improve his skills.

“Since I am a junior I will continue my band career next year by being a drum major again,” Palmesano said. “Since it will be my second year I will be more experienced in competitions and I will be able to better lead and help my peers in the band.”

At the end of the season the drum majors led the band to a second place win at State and an eighth place win at a national competition in Missouri. The three of them were glad they got to have such a big role in band during the year.

story by Madisson Magee & Alexis Novacek

KINDSO b

rassy

THREE OF A

What had never been done before had now been accomplished for the

percussionists. Stomping through the new season with win after win, they ended it with a bang.

Throughout the day of the State competition, the percussionists kept their heads high and confidence level even higher.

“Before the competition we were all really nervous,” senior Matt Schefik said. “It was kind of exhilarating, getting ready for the day ahead because we just knew we were going to crush it this year.”

Although the band was tense before competing, practicing their notes and tapping their fingers helped to ease the anxiety. The thought of losing was not an option for the percussionists this year. Getting that State title was at the top of their list.

“This year our season went very well and we won almost everything we competed in,” senior Jack Brauer said. “Winning State has always been our number one priority and this year we were rooting for it more than ever.”

Eventually, the time to perform had come, and the percussionists stepped out onto the Buell Stadium Field. Once in formation, everything went still.

And then they began.The sound of low rumbles and high

clashes pierced the silence, creating a sound

only the students of Millard West knew. Beat after beat, the drummers tapped their instruments and stomped across the field, swaying the judges and everyone in the stands.

“It was absolutely astonishing seeing those kids out on that field,” director John Keith said. “All of them played their hearts out, I had never seen them do so well until that moment. I think it was primarily because of how confident they were.”

Moving off the field, the percussionists smiled with utter joy, positive that they completely blew everyone away with their performance. It was a feeling none of them had felt so strongly before.

“Stepping off of that field all I could do was smile,” Schefik said. “It was the best feeling in the world. Nothing could beat it.”

Then the award ceremony began and the uneasy sensation kicked back in, but soon vanished.

After months of hard work and early mornings, the dedication to their instruments and school paid off when the announcer declared the percussionists Best in State.

“‘Wow’ was really the first reaction I had to the announcement,” Keith said. “I was so proud of everyone, but especially of the seniors.”

With their last year of percussion in high school coming to an end, the seniors definitely left their mark on the school by proving their drum line was the best in the state.

Drumline receives the title of Best in State for the first time in Wildcat historystory by Annaliese Punt

BANG out with a

PAT the drums Looking up with caution, senior Patrick Forsgren steadily pats on his snare drum. His last year in band was memorable with percussion winning Best in State. “This year the show staff did a very

good job of keeping everyone in tempo,” Forsgren said. “They did everything they

needed to do and just went out there and crushed it.”

double tap Slightly tapping the two symbols together, senior Joel Meyer looks forward with confidence. Being the one who faces the drumline, he got the

chance to watch the magic happen from the best spot in the house. “It feels good to

have recieved that title,” Meyer said. “Just knowing I was a part of the first group of

percussionists to win Best in State is an honor.”

reaching the top tier Keeping an eye on her fellow drummers, freshman Zoie Evans counts the beats till her

intro. Being in JV band, Evans rarely gets the chance to play with the big dogs, but she

still supports them off the field by being a mascot. “I strive to be one of the varsity

percussionists one day,” Evans said. “I’ll have to practice a lot and take notes to be that

great, but I’m sure I can accomplish it.”

she is flutiful Prepared to wow the crowd, sophomore Emily Sander blows into her flute. She started playing her instument after seventh grade. “I like band because it is like a big family,” Sander said. “I can talk to anyone about anything. Everyone forgets what grade you are in and that is really nice.”

reeding music Playing from memory, junior Bayley Kimball makes music from her clarinet. Kimball moved to Millard West during her sophomore year of high school. “I have been in band since seventh grade,” Kimball said. “Once I understand what I am playing I have good tone.”

trump it Fingers placed on his trumpet, junior Hadyn Lee plays to his heart’s content. Lee joined band to make new friends through his love of music. “My favorite memory was going to Blue Springs, Missouri,” Lee said. “We got to compete against many bands we do not usually see.”

“Winning the best percussion in State was the best thing to happen this year. We struggled at first during the season, so it felt good to have all our hard work be paid off in State.” Gregory Kipp ‘18

“My greatest achievement is making All State band this year. I take private lessons every week and I have been practicing the scales since they came out last school year.”Alyssa Thompson ‘18

“I chose to play the French horn when I was younger because I tested out all the brass ones and liked this the best.” Katarina Garza ‘18

“I started in fifth grade when we had the band fair and I tried out the tuba and I really liked the sound of it so I chose it.”Christopher Boehm’19

“My mom is a music teacher so she really encouraged me to join band in elementary school. I chose to play the French horn.”Bethany Vawter ‘19

“I always thought instruments were cool, but a challenge to play. I really enjoy the trumpet because it’s loud and simple.” Nathaniel Booher ‘20

“The best part of this year was getting second at State because the last five years we got third. We practice three days a week and we have night rehersals two times a week.”Mikayla McClure ‘17

photo by Sara Urban

photo by Isabella Henryphoto by Alexis Novacek

photo by Catherine Cowellphoto by Catherine Cowell

photo by Catherine Cowell

photo by Catherine Cowell

photo by Sara Urban

photos by Sara Urban

142142 Marching band

260260 261Freshmen

Katelyn BehrensLia BellCorissa BemisPresly BengtsonMadison BeninatoCody BennettAndrew BeranCarter Beran

Logan BerggrenOwen BerrethJoseph BertschPaige BetzoldCole BieberChristian Biniamow-SchaeferKeenan BirdBrighton Bischoff

Alyssa BizzarriJulia BodwellJenna BohatyMeghan BohnLuke BondEvan BonnerNathaniel BooherZachary Borcherding

Kelsey BowenAidan BrammeierBaylor BrannenKyla BronsonChloe BrowderAlec BrownMolly BrownZechariah Brown

Brayson BrownleeNicholas BruegmanPeter BuglewiczKenneth BunnellEllen BurlingJoseph BurtonJerryd BuschPeyton Buscher

David AbbaduskyCael Ackerman

Samantha AdamsonKenden Ahl

Austin Aiken

Eman Al-KanassAustin Allen

Hameedullah AmanHunter Amos

Jacob Andersen

Justin AndersenDylan Anderson

Maxwell AndersonFerdinando Andrade Bohorquez

Garrett Arbogast

Ashley ArpMaxwell Athy

Ashley AtkinsonRiley Atkinson

Rohan Badal

Madison BaierSailor Bails

Lucas BallardNolan Bangtson

Olivia Barnes

Isabella BarreraSamuel Barrett

Jamie BarthKaylen BarthElla Bashara

Jacob BathoNathan Bauermeister

Titan BealDalys Beanum

Alexander Bedell

NEVADA

freshman gets moved across the countrystory by Alexis Novacek

As if transitioning into high school was not already a difficult change, freshman

Jacob Novacek found out news that would change his high school career, that had not even started. His father was offered to be transfered to Reno, Nevada, for a new job. Novacek would be moving with his family when his freshman year was over. “My sister is a senior, so my mom decided if my dad took the job to stay behind with us so she can finish her last year,” Novacek said. “It was a hard decision to make to be away from my dad, but I am glad my sister could graduate with her friends.” Novacek and his family decided to visit Reno before they made the final decision. They wanted to make

sure Reno was a good fit. “We had a great time when we visited Reno,” Novacek said. “Lake Tahoe was only 30 minutes away and my sisters and I loved it. Since it was so nice there, we decided as a family it was the right choice.” The hardest thing for Novacek and his family was to leave all of their friends. For Novacek, that was his good friend freshman Aidan Linder. “Jake tells me how sad he is going to be when he leaves all of us,” Linder said. “It is going to be hard to have a good friend across the country.” Novacek and his family were seperated for ten months. After the long wait was over, the family knew that it was the right decision to take the job offer.

photo courtesy of Jacob Novacek

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“I chose EXCITING because everything is new. New people, new classes and new friends. I love all the exciting experiences you get to experience with your friends.” Madalyn Peterson ‘20

“If i had to describe freshman year in one word I would say BUSY. Moving from middle school to high school is a big change. There is a lot more homework.” Tristan Gomes ‘20

“Freshman year is very INTERESTING. It is full of new stuff and new experiences. There is a lot of good things about it but there is bad things too.” Sara Feuker ‘20

“I would say freshman year is AWESOME. After middle school I lost some of my good friends but I meet all my new best friends in my freashman year. I love it.”Kylie Gibbons ‘20

“I chose INTIMIDATING because there is a lot of people in this school. Also everyone hates the freshman so it’s kind of scary walking down the hallways.” Kayla Hansen ‘20

“My word is TIRED. My first half of the year I have very hard classes so im up all night studying. Most of the time I wish I could just take a nap during class.” Joseph Distefano ‘20

“I would say SURPRISING I had high expectations for high school to be very big and intimidating. Once I got here though, it’s not that big and it’s easy to find my way.”Katherine Stoneburner ‘20

“I’m always BORED in this school. My classes are not fun or interesting. I would honestly rather be home or with my friends. High school isn’t as good as middle school was.” Jackson Gilfry ‘20

“I chose STRESSFUL because the classes are so much harder than middle school classes. There is way too much homework and not enough time to do it.” Kennedy Darner ‘20

“MEDIOCRE is the word I would chose. In the beginning of the year it was very hard to adjust at first. Once you get the hang of it, it’s a piece of cake.” Aaryan Naik ‘20

“If I had to pick one word it would be GREAT because my older brother goes here and I love seeing him at school. I also have alot of upperclassman friends.”Hannah Schnuerle ‘20

I would definitely say EASY because coming from middle school to high school does suck, but there is way less homework and most of the teachers are very nice. Landon Sunde ‘20Su

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SUNSET OR SUNRISE?by Lindsay Nigh

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Millard West High School