Wintry Weather Doesn’t Dampen Winter Sports Season

Despite weather conditions that led to multiple game delays and postponements, the five teams that played in the winter season of Westmark Athletics achieved notable success. One third of students participated on these teams, with three players earning All-League honors and one team advancing to the playoffs.

We checked in with Craig Schoof, Director of Athletics, Physical Education, and Wellness, for a rundown of how the season played out.

Basketball

Under the leadership of Coaches Jelani Kelly and Lael Ryan, along with a standout senior class of five players, the Lions finished the Upper School Boys Basketball season with a 7-8 record, securing third place in the Omega League. 

The five graduating seniors each played a key role on the team: Shane S. was team MVP and a second-team All-League selection; Ellis L. earned an Honorable Mention All-League selection; starting point guard Jacob S. won the Coaches Award; Eli J.  was well-known for his strong interior defense and rebounding; and Ethan H. brought his stellar defense and intensity to every game.

The seniors were also invaluable in mentoring a group of underclassmen athletes. Next season looks promising as this year’s freshman talents move up, including Dean R., Ethan W., Connor L., Zadeh L., and Liam S., along with rising junior Preston D.

As the defending league champions, the Grades 7–8 Boys Basketball team had big shoes to fill this year. But Coaches Casey Cacitti and Alec Esses pushed the players to new heights, leading to significant improvement as the Lions fought their way into the league playoffs. With point guard and leading scorer Donny W. at the helm, along with strong contributions from Elias T., Logan D., Ben C., Asher F., Noah P., Neeloy R., and Ryan B., the future of Westmark Basketball is looking bright.

One of the most talented Grades 5–6 Boys Basketball teams in recent years saw the young Lions finish with a 4-3 record and secure second place in the league. Coached by Chris Lamica and Cindy Morales, Westmark was led by the scoring and ball-handling skills of Leon O. and Barkly H., while Apollo R., Mason B., Roman D., and Will C. provided strong defense and rebounding.

The winter season marked the return of a Grades 5–6 Girls Basketball team to Westmark for the first time in five years. Under the guidance of Coaches Erick Street and Val Mazzanti, the Lions made tremendous progress throughout the season, demonstrating spirit and sportsmanship. With Alisha E. leading the way with her ball-handling and shooting skills, as well as strong contributions from Sophie S., Leia B., Lilliana G., Mila L., Sosie M., and Paige L., the team was competitive in every game and finished with a 1-4 record.

Soccer

The Upper School Soccer season was challenging due to limited player numbers. But those who were able to finish the season demonstrated hard work, determination, and improvement. Coaches Juette Bush and Sean Magee are proud of how the team faced adversity and grew into a cohesive, supportive unit. Julian J., the team MVP and an Honorable Mention All-League selection, dominated the midfield as the team's lone senior, while freshman standout Eli R. earned the Coaches Award. With offensive standout Pearson M. and defensive anchor Lula L. returning next year, along with young, improving talents like Pepper Z., Avery G., Franki L., Ben R., James S., Layzsa P., Ryder A., and Rylan S., the Lions are poised to bounce back with a strong season ahead.