Girls' Varsity Volleyball Kicks off Season

By Samantha Silverbrand, staff reporter

Photo by Emma Nemes

The girls varsity volleyball team set off the season with a spectacular win against Bethany Christian Academy last Saturday and another against Sturgis West on Monday. Sadly their winning streak has been cut short this Wednesday with a loss against rivals Pope John Paul II.

Starting off the season with a boom, captains Shannon Slater and Makaila Lyons made some astounding plays on the floor, Makaila scoring first point against Bethany with a resounding spike over the net. Winning the first set, Sturgis carried on with confidence. Throughout the second set there were some amazing plays made by some of the newer players this year, freshmen Deja Andrews and

Lauren Smith. Throughout the set Bethany

Photo by Emma Nemes

made some surprising plays, giving Sturgis East a tough time trying to win against them in the second set and  Bethany ended up winning 25-22. After losing the second set, the Sturgis varsity girls gained the determination to do better in the next set. Upping their game to their best playing, they ended up winning the third set 25-14 with their willpower and concentration on the game. Entering the fourth set, the Sturgis East girls went in with their hearts set on the win. Grayce Rogers made some fantastic digs, passing the ball for the winning point in the fourth set, final score being 25-22, giving Sturgis East their first win of the season.

Monday brought the anticipated game against Sturgis West. Already feeling the heat of East, Sturgis West brought their A-game, making some good volleys, but not quite good enough. Sturgis East dominated the court making volley after volley, some terminal hits being made by junior Hannah Taylor and sophomore Emma Nemes. The Sturgis East volleyball team had come to win, winning the first three sets within a time period of only 45 minutes to complete the game. All and all it was a good day for Sturgis volleyball on both sides of the net. Sturgis West showed great competitive spirit and sportsmanship, and their games will always be anticipated in the future.
Finally on Wednesday was the game against PJPII. It was a hard fight for the win in the first set, but Sturgis finally won 26-24 with a well deserved win for the first set. After the first set things seemed to change, and Sturgis was a little too off their game, letting Pope John Paul take the initiative to win the next three sets. Even though Sturgis lost the game, the first set was the best of the season.  
The Sturgis East varsity volleyball team will continue the season with their next game on Saturday in Hanover against South Shore Regional Technical School. They hope to keep a positive attitude for the outlook of the season and to come out as a better team this year by  improving their skills and working as a team.

Wellness: More Class Time, Less Stress

by Sara Prygocki, staff reporter

This year was the beginning of a new class at Sturgis known as Wellness, which students go to once every seven day rotation.

Taught by Mrs. Hernandez, it is a mainly yoga class with some meditation and breathing exercises thrown in there for good measure.

During class, there will be soothing music playing, occasionally a poem, or anything other activity that would kids remain healthy.

“In college I studied Arabic, and was heading down a very stressful road. Luckily, I found yoga,” Mrs. Hernandez says of her yoga background. “I like working here, and kids are a lot more fun to teach than adults. The kids here are very nice, and it’s not like a public school at all. Honestly, if there was something like this in my public school, it would have been nuts but Sturgis is perfect for this sort of thing.” Mrs. Hernandez added that even if yoga isn’t your thing, it is still beneficial because it takes time away from the stress of class and gives students a place to relax.

Boys' Soccer Improves to 5-1

by Kevin Agostinelli, staff reporter

The Sturgis Boys soccer team suffered their first loss of the season to Nantucket on Wednesday, September 19, but they bounced back with a 5-0 triumph against Southbridge on Saturday, September 22.  

The Storm were riding high after four consecutive victories to start the season, but their humbling defeat at Nantucket reminded them that winning the Cape & Islands Division Championship will not be an easy task. The first half was dominated by Nantucket, who scored two goals in the first ten minutes and incessantly found holes in the Storm’s backline. With midfielder Dylan Steven out with a concussion, Sturgis’s attack struggled to create chances, but forward Chris Dedecko nearly got on the end of several breakaways. Despite a much-improved offense in the second half, Sturgis still gave up two goals to lose 4-0.

The Storm’s Saturday morning match against Southbridge was virtually the opposite of Wednesday’s game as the midfield owned possession and goalkeeper Kyle Garvey earned his second shutout of the year. Even with the absences of starters Dylan Steven, junior Greg Watts, and senior Chris Dennison, the new-look starting lineup performed admirably. In the first 38 seconds of the game, senior forward Aidan Fitzsimons stole the ball from a Southbridge defender and coolly slotted the ball into the back of the net for his fourth goal of the season. Just a few minutes later, senior goalkeeper Kyle Garvey scored his first Sturgis career goal off a penalty kick. Juniors Jonny Gomes and Alex Smith followed with their second and first goals of the season, respectively, and defensive general Ben Duncan made up for a missed penalty kick earlier in the game by scoring from the spot in the second half.

The boys look forward to their rivalry game against Sturgis West on Monday as they are now 3 games away from clinching a spot in the state tournament with a 5-1 record.

Campbell Candidate Statement

By Elizabeth Campbell, contributor

Freshman Representative: Elizabeth Campbell

My name is Elizabeth Campbell, I am a freshman at Sturgis East and I would like to run for student council of class of 2016. I entered Sturgis with a lot of things on my mind, one thing, to be able to help make a change for this class.

      Each year, we all want something different and as your representative I would like to make each of your voices heard and these complaints or suggestions brought to the table. Students want dances, field trips, a bigger range of sports and clubs, and more. But with each of these things comes a price, but with someone in charge and active, I could have more fundraisers to raise money and awareness for things like these.
      People love to get out of school every once and a while and just learn a little differently and field trips are one way to do it. The students here are mature and interested in their studies and going outside the regular classroom is refreshing every once in a while for everyone, but I do understand that it costs money, so raising money will be needed. I would also like to make note that dances are a great way to stay social and connected with your peers. I understand that there are not many for the students at Sturgis and a few more would be something great to look forward too! If I am informed that people would like a new club introduced to the school, I will do all that I can for that to be proposed as an idea for the heads of school.
      I will take this job seriously and do it to the best of my ability so I am counting on the votes of the freshmen of class of 2016!

Labbe Candidate Statement

By Dan Labbe, contributor

Freshman Representative: Dan Labbe

Why should I be the Freshman Class Representative for the class of 2016? My name is Dan Labbe, and I believe I am a natural leader and that’s exactly what I plan to do, lead. I am currently a Sergeant in the Young Marines, and I lead around 20-30 youth in staying off drugs and working hard for their goals. I am not going to make false promises or act like I am the President of the United States. I am just an ordinary student who wants to make my freshman class the best that it can be. I have always been told by my peers and teachers how much of a great public speaker I am. In fact, I won a debate tournament undefeated a few years ago. Now you may be wondering, why should I choose this candidate over any other? I hope that you will vote not because your best friend is running but because you see which candidate could make your life as a freshman best. I am running to be your Freshman Class Representative so I can accurately represent us as a bunch of hard working students who want the best school experience possible. Some students may try and buy your bid with candy or false promises; I am just trying to win because of my experience and leadership skills. So, my fellow students, I ask you to vote for the candidate you know is right. Also, remember that even if your best friend wins the position, they still might become overwhelmed and do a bad job. So remember, vote with your mind, not with your heart. I am Dan Labbe, and I am running for your Freshman Class Representative.

Curran Candidate Statement

By Katie Curran, contributor 

Freshman Representative: Katie Curran 

 

It would be an honor to be elected as the 2016 Freshman Class Representative.  I would love to serve my classmates at this unique and remarkable school.  If elected, I would have a positive and effective role in the Student Council.  It would be a pleasure serving the student body here at Sturgis.
As Student Council Representative, I would interact with my peers and take strides to encourage a variety of  enriching activities for the freshman class.  I am extremely reliable and motivated, as well as very approachable and friendly.  It would be an amazing opportunity working with my classmates to enrich student life here at Sturgis.  As Representative, it would be my goal to spread Sturgis pride through the halls of Sturgis East and beyond into our community.   
My background is proof that I am an effective leader.  I really enjoy serving the people and seeing a smile on their face.  In middle school, I was president of my school's Student Council, and 2 year president of my school's Honor Society.  In addition to that, I am  involved in my community through volunteering.  I enjoy public speaking and listening and learning from others.  I am a true leader.  I have attended a leadership conference in Washington D.C. which taught me valuable skills to utilize in a position such as Freshman Class Representative.
I am confident that I could be a great addition to Student Council.  Being involved in Student Council events as the Freshman Rep. would give me an opportunity to provide my class with fun and exciting activities. These events provide students with a good balance between their academic and social life.
It would mean the world to me to be elected Freshman Class Representative.  On Tuesday, September 25,  I respectfully ask for your support in this election.

O'Brien Candidate Statement

By Chris O'Brien, contributor

Freshman Representative: Chris O'Brien

I think I’m a great choice for Freshman Rep because I think I’ll the freshman group safety and joy to their first year to Sturgis, and I also think it’ll help me in different ways. Firstly I already have a feel for the types of students at Sturgis and I can tell what type of students they are. Also it’s the first year at Sturgis and high school for them and I want they them to feel safe and comfortable with older grades and whatever happens outside of school at sports, open lunch, and the P&B bus. I have an older brother and his friends mess with me, but it’ll be different if a senior came up to a freshman and started making comments to them. Also I want to get to know the different kids in the grade and help them with any problem they have if it’s grades, bullying, sports, or any other problems. I also want this position on the council because it’ll be great on college, job, or any other papers to show I have a leadership skill; which I do, I am a very likeable person I can fit with the athletic crowd, smart crowds, and the academically struggling crowd; so I will be able to relate to other students I have a leadership part of me, I can take charge and step in for the greater good, I’m not afraid to tell someone they are doing something wrong and help them fix it. Another part of my leadership skills is my organization, I can help a organizing events me knowing what other students are like I will know what they like. So there will be a thing that every student will like. Also it would teach me responsibility being in charge of something important.

Trelegan Candidate Statement

By Hannah Trelegan, staff contributor 

Freshman Representative: Hannah Trelegan

My name is Hannah Trelegan, and I want to be your freshman class student council representative. First let me just say one thing; The class of 2016 is the BEST CLASS EVER!!! Now back to business, as your representative I will be helping to organize student events, selling tickets, setting up for dances, and helping with spirit week organization, etc. I would be happy to listen to your awesome ideas about the events, and I would be open to any suggestions that you might have for me. I would also love for you to help me plan and organize the events. Together we would make a great team!
In the list of position responsibilities it says "The reps are the voice of their class..." I am ready and prepared to be the voice of the Freshman. Over the last few years I have participated in an assortment of extracurricular activities that emphasize public speaking such as mock trial, debate, and theater class. These activities have helped me become more comfortable speaking in front of large groups of people. I would be very grateful for your vote, and I look forward to being your freshman representative.
Thank you, Hannah Trelegan

Neal Candidate Statement

By Zoe Neal, contributor 

Freshman Representative: Zoe Neal

My name is Zoe Neal, and I’m running to be your Freshman Representative. If you vote for me, I shall be your voice and advocate for this school year. Although we are new at Sturgis, we can still come up with viable ways to improve our school.
I am a very determined person. Once I set my mind to something, there’s no stopping me from achieving that goal. For example, when the Cape Cod Conservatory announced the 2011 Practice-A-Thon, I was the top money raiser and won first place. Also, when I set out to collect donations for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer, I raised over four hundred dollars for cancer research.
One of the reasons I am running for Freshman Representative is I feel I can relate to each freshman in at least one way. I love all types of music, literature, and sports. My interests include keeping up with politics and local news, practicing violin, spending time at the library, playing video games, shopping (of course), and watching sports. I also adhere very well to traditions; whether they are watching classic Star Trek with my mom and grandmother on Saturdays, (let’s hope my Saturday nights in the future become more exciting), enjoying this week’s Patriots game with my grandfather, or spending the weekend powering through a Lord of the Rings trilogy marathon.
In the past, I have been in many scenarios where my leadership skills have been put to the test. Last year, I was the principal second violinist in the Cape Cod Symphony Youth Orchestra. With that position came responsibilities, such as speaking for my section, making sure everyone’s problems were stated, and solutions were put into order. With this experience, I feel as though I would be an excellent Freshman Representative.
In conclusion, I have a great deal of experience in all of the fields required for this task. Therefore, if you want a responsible, relatable leader, vote for me, Zoe Neal, in this upcoming Freshman Representative election.

Borowski Candidate Statement

By Meghan Borowski, contributor

Freshman Representative: Meghan Borowski 

Student government has been in my blood for over five years. I know I am only a freshmen but I have been elected and chosen to represent my class throughout middle school and even in elementary. That means I have experience talking to my peers, listening to their ideas, concerns or opinions. I am a very, very outgoing energetic person who encourages others around me to not only do their best but do it with spirit and enthusiasm. I will always be the first to volunteer and commit to whatever I might be doing. Whether playing a game in class, out of the soccer field or basketball court, or even just helping a friend out. I am a confident leader who is focused and determined and does have the “manpower” to do whatever is needed. I am a straight-A student who always puts school first, but also does a lot out of school, including acting classes, volunteering at my local library or hanging out with friends or playing sports. I am what is known as a “social butterfly”  and have many friends who mean a lot to me and I am very close with. If I were to become the Freshmen Class Representative I would listen to my fellow students and encourage their ideas. I will participate in all events and bring cheer and spirit to the school. I will lead this class into the right direction. And I will do that with a smile.

Cross-Country Starts with Battles versus West

By Cooper Heilmann, staff reporter

Photo by Mitch Kimber

    The Sturgis East boys’ cross country team started their season by practicing for their first meet on Saturday, September 8th in Marthas Vineyard.  They raced against thirteen different teams from across the Cape. Sturgis Cross Country was the second smallest team at the meet, and unfortunately they could not pull off a win.   Their top three runners were seniors Mitch Kimber, Devin Low, and Noah Lonergan, who had recently quit Sturgis soccer to join the cross country team.  However, the team kept their hopes up for an upcoming race against Sturgis West.
    A few days later on Wednesday, September 12, both boys and girls cross country teams came together in a race against Sturgis West.  There was much excitement and competitive attitude seeing as this was a race against Sturgis’s “other side”, the side that East is so often eager to compete with.  However, the team was missing one of their top runners Alaina Ohm, due to an injury, and they were worried about the outcome of the race.  Despite missing one of their top runners, and regardless of the fact that Sturgis East’s home course is known as one of the hardest on the Cape, the boy’s cross country team made an easy win against Sturgis West.   They claimed 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th, and 8th places while West was only able to take 4th, 7th, and lower places.  While the boys celebrated this victory, the Sturgis East girl’s cross country team was not as successful, and they lost the race against West.  This was also their first race, so they will have plenty of time in the season to improve.  However, both teams hope to defeat West in their next race.
    Both teams look forward to improving in their future races.

New Faces and Talent at Fall Play Auditions

By Sara Prygocki, staff reporter

Anna Rohlf, Lily Paradise and Skye Kuppig rehearse before auditioning.

The fall play auditions were a huge hit; nearly forty people auditioned between the two dates September 4th and 6th.

Unlike last year’s auditions, more freshmen showed up among the group along with some new sophomore faces. Overall, there was a pretty fair distribution of talent among the classes and twenty five people ended up finally getting cast.

The play will actually be two short plays with the common theme of art. Museum is about a group of kooky art appreciators that get both themselves and the people around them into mischief. The second play, Degas, C’est Moi, is about an unemployed citizen of New York City who wakes up one day and decides to shake his life up by pretending to be Degas, a famous French painter. All the characters are enthusiastic and highly unrealistic.

The two comedies, the wide variety of new talent, and the hilarious script promise to have the audience rolling in their seats with laughter. This will be Ms. Ollagnon’s second play at Sturgis and with junior Czarina Shartle Assistant Directing, this will be a play hard to forget.

Left to right: Mrs. Ollagnon, Lucas Brown, Josh Cox and Anna Rohlf review the script.

If anyone has any interest in helping backstage for this production, speak to Ms. Ollagnon. Rehearsals for the play will take place after school at the Annex on Tuesdays and Thursdays until the November performances.

Wanted: Comic Book Club Advisor

By Meghan Agostinelli, editor-in-chief

Teachers: Do you enjoy reading comics such as Deadpool or helping students to create their own comics? If so, you could be the advisor for the new comic club! According to the club’s founder freshman Lindsay Rice, the aim of the club is “basically to have students draw their own comics or write comics for someone to draw.” If you just enjoying reading comics, that’s fine too as different comic series will be discussed. For more information, please contact Lindsay Rice.

Girls' Soccer Looking to Improve after Rocky Start

By Jacob Tobey, staff reporter

The Sturgis Girls Varsity Soccer team began the year on a sour 0-2 record against local rivals Pope John Paul and Cape Cod Academy.

On Monday, September  10th, Sturgis east hosted the rival Pope John Paul Lions for the season opener, and the Lions got the best of the Storm winning 6-1.  Although losing by five goals wasn’t what the Storm had in mind, they did take some good things out of the match.  “It was a tough game to play through,” said left forward and Captain Hayara Cardoso, who scored the only goal for Sturgis.  The girls failed to stop a veteran PJP attack.

On September 12th, the Sturgis Storm played Cape Cod Academy.  This was a much better effort from the Storm, but still wasn’t enough to get the win.  They lost 4-2.  The defense was still a little shaky but had greatly improved since the game against Pope John Paul II. Sturgis got good production from right midfielder Brittany Gayton, who sniped a shot from the 18 yard line in to the bottom left corner and also assisted on Captain Sara Sweeten’s goal.  “ I was on the top of the box, received a pass back from Brittany and rebounded it into the corner of the goal,” explained Sweeten.  

The Storm will try to get back on track against Nantucket on Wednesday the 19th, and also will play Southbridge at Mashpee High School on Friday the 21st.     

Boys' Soccer Kicks off Season with Wins

By Kevin Agostinelli, staff reporter

 The Sturgis Boys varsity soccer team kicked off the season with a pair of impressive wins versus Upper Cape last Friday and local rival Pope John Paul II on September 10.

Led by a strong veteran corps of seniors this year, the Storm had high expectations for the season and got off to the right start in their 6-2 win at Upper Cape Tech. Senior Aidan Fitzsimons opened the scoring off a masterful through ball by Jonny Gomes, and Chris Dedecko answered soon after by driving home a curling pass from Chris Dennison. Sturgis continued to dictate the play. After Dedecko and Fitzsimons each tallied two more, Jacob Tobey made it a five-goal lead after finishing from close range. At the end of the first half and the beginning of the second half, Upper Cape made things interesting by scoring two unlucky goals, but sophomore Mackenzie Green quashed the opponent’s hopes by scoring from another great through ball by Jonny Gomes.

On Monday, Sturgis faced a tougher test against Pope John Paul II. Unlike the first game, PJP was much more threatening on the attack, but the Storm’s stellar defense led by senior Ben Duncan and goalkeeper Kyle Garvey kept the Lions at bay for most of the game. Halfway through the first half, Aidan Fitzsimons collect the rebound from Chris Dedecko’s shot and smashed it into the net. Not to be outdone by his senior companion, Chris Dedecko scored off a neat through ball from sophomore Miguel Cruz to put Sturgis up by two in the second half. Finally, Jacob Tobey once again finished after a long run to score his second goal in as many games.

The Storm will continue their season with two night games, one on September 12 against Cape Cod Academy and the other on Friday, September 14, against Sturgis West.