The joy of
teamwork
Fall Sports 2022
- Upper School
- Middle School
Upper School
girls varsity soccer
The Watkinson girls soccer team put together a valiant and successful 2022 season. With only fourteen players, each player contributed and played an important role in the team’s overall progression and success. In pre-season we emphasized the importance of team work, hard work, strength of character and enjoyment of the game - all of equal importance. We wanted the girl’s authentic selves to flourish and in being inclusive of their peers, to form a collective, unifying team bond. The rest was up to them. They worked hard in pre-season with equal parts laughter and training. At the onset of the season, we played hard while suffering some early losses that we would use as learning lessons to right the ship. Each girl was expected to play multiple positions and the majority of each game given our lack of subs. By mid-season, we found our stride having won nearly half of our games. By the second half of the season, we were indeed a very tough opponent to face. We lost a number of close games that were the dice to roll a different way, we could have won. We worked together, played hard, and cherished every day that we were together as a team. As coaches, we couldn’t have asked for anything else. We are extremely proud of our girls and the team culture that they’ve put in place. We wish all the best to our graduating seniors and look forward to building on our momentum next season.
FROM THE CAPTAINS
Sidney A. '23 —
I really want to thank both coaches for not giving up on me, or my team. You both stepped up and made this season the best, and have always answered any questions any of us have had. The beginning of the season started off hard, but our coaches never failed to motivate, and push us through all the hard times. I have never appreciated coaches or my team more until this season. Thank you Coach Arzt, and Coach Wyld for constantly getting me through each hard game, and for making this the best season I have ever had. I appreciate everything you have done for us.
Kendall R. '24 —
Coach Wyld came into the season as a brand new member of the Watkinson community, and quickly fit right in. He has been there for the team from day one, through the tough losses and the incredible wins. Thank you so much Coach, for being such a positive role model and leader to our team and for always making us laugh!
Coach Artz has been the team’s motivational speaker all season, always making the team feel more confident. Thank you Coach, you always know how to lift people up, proving to ourselves that we can do whatever it is we want to achieve!
Maryam H. '24 —
First, I would like to personally thank Coach Wyld. He stepped up to the plate to support this team in a time of need with Coach Artz by his side. They brought the absolute best out of every one of the players, from freshmen to seniors, throughout the season. Coach Wyld understands what it takes to be a student-athlete, knowing the sacrifices one must make at times, he put his trust in us during pre-season, and we’ve shown him the growth and experience that comes with those sacrifices.
girls varsity soccer
most valuable player
SIDNEY A. ’23
SIdney worked hard every day on the pitch and was a constant scoring threat. She lead the team in scoring with 16 goals and tallied 9 assists, despite often being double teamed. Her goal scoring prowess and savvy passing often compelled and lifted her team. We will miss her leadership and presence next year, and wish her the best in her continuing soccer career.
girls varsity soccer
most VALUABLE PLAYER
KENDALL R. '24
Kendall brought great leadership, toughness and a never give up work ethic to our team. Her energy, shooting, and passing ability consistently inspired and motivated our team. She is an indispensable talent whom we look forward to having back next season. Kendall finished the season with 11 goals and 7 assists.
girls varsity soccer
MCDONALD SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD
MARYAM H. ’24
Maryam, playing goalie for the first time, had a tremendous season. She consistently encouraged her teammates and led by example and perseverance. If our goal as a team was to be good teammates and good sports, winning with class and losing with grace, Maryam was a beacon. We look forward to her voice, character, and talent next season.
girls varsity soccer
most improved player
MOO P. '24
Over the course of the season, Moo Paw was our most improved player. From a strong athlete, she developed into a strong soccer player with speed, tactical awareness and skill. Her transformation was wonderful to see and by our final games of the seasons she was a formidable presence. Congrats Moo Paw!
girls varsity soccer
COACHES AWARD
TALIA H. ’26
As a freshman, Talia was the engine of our team. She is a rare talent who works hard and smiles often. Her natural, easy going demeanor and fierceness on the pitch helped lift and inspire her teammates. We all know she has a very bright future ahead and we look forward to watching her development.
jv volleyball
We entered the season with half of our roster consisting of new players, learning the foundational skills and the rules of the game. Over the course of the season, the team improved tremendously in their communication and their execution of bumping, setting, and spiking. Under the leadership of captains Sofia Angulo and Pia Squatrito, the girls fought for every point ending the season with a respectable 3-5 record.
FROM THE CAPTAINS
Sofia A. ’24 —
This past season we grew a lot stronger as a family, and learned that it was okay to lean on each other for support. The love we have for Coach Tomlinson and Coach Perkins is indescribable, we owe everything to them from this past season. The example that has been set by them is one that we all aspire to be, they push us to be the best we can be and we all try to meet that goal. Everything we did this season, we did for each other and for our coaches and we cannot thank them enough for the support that they gave us this year.
Pia S. ’25 —
Thank you volleyball coaches, Ms. Perkins and Coach M for another great season. This year you both helped our JV and Varsity teams grow together both in skill, and as a big (Ram) family. Our JV and Varsity girls have learned and taken to heart at least one big lesson. Some were as simple as not running for the ball with our hands together, or bumping and passing the ball high enough to set, and get a 3 ball play. Some of the tougher lessons included how to get the ball up and back in from out of the court. Additionally, to always remember to follow through for serves and hits and to have quick movements to ensure the ball will go over and in. It is safe to say that this season was a memorable one, we can’t wait for another one next year! Thank you again coaches.
JV Volleyball
most valuable player
ALICE X. ’25
As one of our most experienced players on the team, Alice Xu does whatever it takes to keep the ball in play, whether she is rescuing a stray ball from the sidelines, or helping her teammates in the back row to break the streak of an opposing server. At the net, her hits and blocks earn essential points for our team. She has also been our most consistent server, with a reliability that has led her to serve during Varsity games as well. Alice, we are proud of what you have accomplished this season, and can’t wait to see what next season has in store for you!
JV Volleyball
MCDONALD SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD
SOFIA A. ’24
With a hunger for victory and a loud voice to match, Sofia A. reminds her teammates to be the best versions of themselves. Her love of the game is contagious, and as a captain and one of our more veteran players, she patiently instructs her teammates where they need to be on the court in order to make our games run smoothly. During competitions, she is the first to acknowledge her own strengths and weaknesses and to consider how that can be channeled towards the greater good of the team. Thank you for your leadership, Sofia!
DESTENI D. '27 (bottom photo)
A ray of sunshine, Desteni busts through the gym doors each day radiating electric, positive vibes. Though new to the team and the game, she has mastered the delicate art of serving up fiery overhand serves before walking away with a new best friend from the opposing team. No team huddle is complete without her chant leadership, reminding her teammates to “keep it up!” and to “focus.” Her volume is unmatched. She reminds her teammates who they are, what they stand for, and what they are capable of. Congratulations Desteni, and thank you for lifting up your teammates!
JV Volleyball
most improved player
MARIA D. '24
In practice, Maria D. takes advantage of the opportunity to approach her coaches for feedback on specific skills she may find challenging, eagerly seeking to strengthen her abilities. As the season has progressed, her confidence has grown, as she has become one of our most consistent passers. She has also become a leader when it comes to communication on the court, loudly calling the ball and encouraging her teammates to do the same. Each year she comes back stronger, with her serves and hits going further, and we are excited to see where this takes her next year!
JV Volleyball
COACHeS AWARD
JA SENG RA N. ’26
Ja Seng Ra exemplifies what it means to be a team player. She maintains a positive mindset and an eagerness to support her teammates in any way possible both on the court and on the sidelines. Without being asked, she volunteers to come to Varsity competitions late after school and on weekends simply out of her love of the game. Whether scoring, shagging balls, or putting up the net, Ja Seng Ra constantly has a hand in helping things run smoothly behind the scenes, without expecting anything in return. We are so grateful to have this role model on our team!
VARSITY VOLLEYBALL
FROM COACH TOMLINSON
The 2022 volleyball season had by far the most players, 22 to be exact.
I was pleasantly surprised when I saw the number of students who decided to join our team. At first I was a bit apprehensive, but also elated. My first thought was how will we be able to effectively train these young ladies to play the game given we have only one court. Somehow it worked; the players took to the training with such vigor and I was even more pleased to see how excited they were for each practice session. As the season progressed and players became more comfortable, the growth and development was pronounced. The techniques, understanding and court awareness could not be missed. Fast forward two weeks to our first game against Christian Heritage, the players were scared out of their wits, however they hung in there and played their best and it was then that they realized their potential. I was aware we would not be the number one or even the number two team, but the players were excited and happy and that meant the world to me, because happy players are better players. We ended the season on a high note with a home win against Eagle Hill and an extremely exciting quarter final game against Harvey. I am excited to see what we will achieve next season.
FROM THE CAPTAINS
Sophia M. '23
— We had such a fun, rigorous, and tough season! I want to thank Coach Tomlinson and Coach Perkins for pushing us to be the athletes we knew we could be — blocking great hits, finding the spots, and aceing those serves. We all had tremendous growth and I am very proud of everyone. This team has great camaraderie, always joking around with each other, celebrating each other’s birthdays, and debating what our themed outfit will be for game days. I am going to miss this team!
Jamella W. '24 —
In the few years I have been playing for this team, I have gotten to know the dynamics of the group and the smaller things about them, whether on the court or not. I am grateful my peers trusted me to be one of their co-captains and I hope I have provided the support they deserve. Though our scores may not reflect it, we’ve had a great and productive season. I want to truly thank and appreciate our coaches for making this possible.
Volleyball
most valuable player
JAMELLA W. '24
Jamella has been by far our most respected player in the league. All the opposing coaches around our league have commented on her level of play. She is fierce but calm and calculated. Jamella has learned to place the ball in particular spots when she serves, which keeps our opponents guessing when she is at the service line. She might not be tall as a traditional volleyball player, however she is able to jump and block a traditionally tall player, which always poses an element of surprise to both players and coaches. She works very hard ro keep the ball off the floor, flying around the court trying to save every point. Her speed, agility, love and understanding of the game have allowed her to improve in leaps and bounds. It is with great pleasure and pride, that we have selected Jamella as our most Valuable player of the 2022 volleyball season.
Volleyball
most improved player
AMANI K. ’25 (top photo)
Amani's level of play has improved in such a positive way, that is very noticeable from the beginning of the season to now. The poise and confidence that she has played with these past few games gives me cause to smile. She is jumping to spike, jumping to block, and now understands the meaning of bending her knees to make a bump pass. Amani also now understands the importance of keeping her eyes on the ball in order to make that play. She has become a force at the net, which has helped her tremendously. I can see her being even a bigger problem to our opposing teams next season. Can't wait to see!
I am proud to name Amani one of our recipients for most improved player for the 2022 season.
JULIA S. ’25 (bottom photo)
Julia has developed into a very calculated player. She is able to place the ball in small open spaces when she goes up to hit. You can almost see her wheels turning seeking out those spots. Julia takes her game very seriously, sometimes to the point where she frustrates herself. She hates to lose so she is not very happy when she thinks she has messed up. I often have to remind her that everyone messes up at times. She is driven and her love for the game has pushed her to be a better player. It gives me much pleasure to elect Julia as one of our most improved players of the 2022 volleyball season.
Volleyball
MCDONALD SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD
SOPHIA M. ’23
How should I describe Sophia? Loving, kind, thoughtful and the ultimate team player. She treats her team members with respect and is very graceful both to her teammates and every one she comes in contact with. She is the first Libero of my career at Watkinson and she has done us proud. She represents her school with such dignity and respect. Sophia's love for the game is eminent and she plays her position with a sense of pride. She is our team mother, always baking cakes for someone's birthday remembering to buy cards and helps out in every way she can. She is a true captain and is loved by the entire team including her coaches. I cannot begin to say how rewarding it is to present this award to this wonderful person. We wish Sophia all the best, as she moves on to bigger and better things.
Volleyball
coaches AWARD
ELISE A. ’23
Elise is a new player to the game of volleyball. Oops! I'm just joking. No I'm not. Elise joined us this summer at our annual volleyball clinic and just seemed to love the game so much. However I was surprised to see her at preseason practice, but no lie, I was happy. I know excellence when I see it and that's what I saw when I first met her and watched her trying to navigate and understand the game. As she continued to attend practice daily, I could see her growth taking place. I took a chance and placed her on the varsity team, and did not have a moment of regret. She is a sponge, sucking up every piece of information she can, always staying after practice, to practice some aspect of her game, asking questions to acquire a better understanding of this or that play or position on the court. Coaches love players who are coachable and Elise definitely falls in that category. Has anyone seen her serve the ball? Wow! She is deadly. Players like Elise are few and far between. Thank you for becoming a member of our volleyball family, you will certainly be missed. Have fun at college and we wish you all the best for your future endeavors.
cross country
Hard work, endurance, personality, and humor exemplify the 2022-2023 cross-country team. Varied ages and abilities allowed the runners to learn from each other, build strength, and gain confidence. There was no better sight than seeing the runners support each other as they crossed the finish line, and watching friendships being created through a love of running and teamwork. All 12 runners achieved a PR in the last two meets, which is a testament to their commitment and hard work. Coach Chris and I look forward to building a team that aspires to excel, connect, and embrace a love for running and fitness.
FROM THE CAPTAIN
Nicholas G. '24 —
Watkinson’s cross-country team was small but packed with personality, laughs, and a lot of hard work throughout the season. I’m incredibly proud of my teammates for the effort and improvement they showed this year, and none of this could have been possible without our two fantastic coaches, Coach Chris and Coach Roberts, who worked incredibly hard behind the scenes to contribute to our success. Thank you to Coach Chris, who meticulously planned out our workouts every day, and to Coach Roberts, who helped to organize all of our meets, and made sure we were able to make it to them. Thank you once again to the entire team for an unforgettable season!
cross country
most valuable runner
NICK G. ’24
Nick’s running talent, work ethic, and leadership abilities as team captain were readily apparent throughout this cross-country season. On an individual basis, Nick was consistently the first or second Watkinson finisher in every meet this fall. He also accomplished his “sub-20” goal of finishing a 5k race in under 20 minutes this season, which is considered a major milestone for distance runners.
Nick exhibited his leadership skills and maturity as he led Watkinson’s relatively young team through their daily warm-ups, and guided them as they previewed race courses on meet days. More importantly, he led by example, with his consistently strong work effort and focus that he displayed every day at practice. We are very proud of Nick’s accomplishments this season and excited to see him back next fall for his senior year.
cross country
most IMPROVED runner
WILL H. ’26
Although Will was new to Varsity Cross Country as a freshman, his reputation as an athlete and skilled tennis player, along with his serious nature, led us to believe that he had a great season ahead of him. His race times improved steadily throughout the season, with a 5+ minute difference from his first to last race. Equally as impressive is Will’s commitment and work ethic; he listens, observes, learns, and then pushes himself to achieve his personal goals as they relate to his personal performance and that of the entire team. We look forward to watching Will continue to grow as an athlete throughout his high school career. Congratulations, Will!
cross country
MCDONALD SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD
KATHERINE B-W. ’25
A true running enthusiast, Kate embraces the sport as a team member and as an individual. As a lover of the outdoors, she happily rallies the team when the weather isn’t cooperating, embraces the elements, and forges on. Kate will be the first one at the finish line to congratulate a team member or offer support and advice to a less experienced runner. Her encouraging words can also be heard out on the course as she races, in support of her teammates and competitors alike - and always with a genuine smile. Congratulations, Kate!
cross country
COACHES AWARD
KATERINA R. ’26
Kat arrived at preseason with an energy that lasted throughout the season. When we watched her run her first warm-up lap with the team, we saw a natural runner with incredible potential. She proved us right as she placed in the top 10 of every race she entered this season - a testament to her determination and commitment to her training. Kat’s athleticism, mental toughness, and positivity have been constant all season, earning her impressive race times, respect and admiration from her teammates, and accolades from her coaches. It has been a pleasure to be able to coach Kat this season. Congratulations!
BOYS VARSITY SOCCER
After graduating nine seniors from last year’s starting eleven, the boys' varsity soccer team had holes to fill. We did just that. So many boys who had little to no soccer experience signed up to represent our Rams this fall and worked incredibly hard to learn the game, build skill, and develop a sense of team chemistry. In the middle of the season, it looked as though we had built an unsuspecting juggernaut after running up a three-game win streak. Unfortunately, some injuries to key players derailed that midseason run. However, we began to build momentum again as we entered the HVAL playoffs - earning the five-seed and a draw against Christian Heritage. Our season ended in a heartbreaking defeat, as we fell 2-1 in overtime after dominating possession and the run of play. There is so much to be proud of; we thank our seniors for all they’ve given to the program, and we are excited about the base of players who are set to return in the fall. Congratulations to all!
FROM THE CAPTAINS
Walker A. '23 —
Is there such a thing as an over-optimist? If there is, it’s Mr Reese. “But it doesn’t have to be like that, just go at it.” In my opinion, unrealistic. Yet everyday I go to practice, and I’m greeted by a smiling face and the best energy I can ask of a coach. Having that type of a coach on a team is “huge.” Mr. Reese is always lifting the team up and directing our attitude in a positive direction. It was an honor playing for him this season and my entire high school career. So… yeah.
Ryan B. '23 —
First off, I would like to thank Coach Danny and Coach Reese for promoting me to this role on the team. When the season started, I was very new to the sport as I hadn’t touched a soccer ball since the 5th grade. I feared that I would be the worst player on the team and was very nervous about both coming to a new school and also playing a sport that I hadn’t played in years. They both welcomed me with open arms from day 1, which made this all possible.
Coming into our first practice, I was expecting the worst. I considered myself more of a shy, introverted person. Beginning this journey, only knowing 2 teammates was tough for me. Throughout the season, I gradually observed my coaches and teammates beginning to trust me more and more. This feeling of trust and belonging motivated me to want to lead. Knowing that I was not the best or most experienced player on the team, but being elevated to a “your” captain, made me become more close and connected with each and everyone of you. Even you Freshman!!! Before I had the armband, I tried to lead the team and be the best and most hardworking player that I could be; and strove to be a role model of hard work to my teammates. I am forever grateful to have served as a captain of this team, and will forever cherish the experiences that we had together. Best of luck to next year's team and beyond, as I know Coach Danny and Coach Reese will continue to lead and succeed our program in the right direction.
Oscar L. '24 —
Danny White. He’s British, and he’s really funny. That’s what most people, who are not on the team, know. But he’s more than that. Those of us who play for him know that even though he wants to win every time, he cares more about how we play than the outcome of the game. Sometimes it was tough, like when both of our goalies were injured. But even then he knew to put Owen Reed, who had never played in goal, between the sticks, creating one of the best, most entertaining games of the season. He took a few returning athletes, added many completely new to soccer, and made a team we could all be proud of.
boys varsity soccer
most valuable player
OSCAR L. ’24 (top photo) and RORY B. ’24 (bottom photo)
Oscar and Rory formed the heart of our team approach this season, operating at the center of all that we hoped to execute on the pitch. When we needed to defend, they did; when we needed to create scoring opportunities, they did; and when the team needed to get the most from other important members of the team, Oscar and Rory did all that they could to make that happen. Soccer is difficult, and they are both incredibly skilled. Leadership is harder, and they both showed their desire and ability in stepping into difficult moments and creating a sense of team after graduating nine seniors last year. The team is in their image, and as they are both juniors, we remain in good hands. Congratulations, gentlemen.
boys varsity soccer
most IMPROVED player
RYAN B. ’23
Ryan was not a soccer player in his time before Watkinson, and it showed during our opening practice during pre-season. It was clear he was an athlete, but soccer is a tricky game with an incredibly unique skill set. Initially, he was a bit lost on the field in terms of positioning and ability, as we hopefully placed him in the center of our backline. Day in and day out, Ryan listened, accepted coaching, and worked on making solid contact with the ball, as well as learning our defensive approach. Later in the season, during a tight contest that required a bit more offensive firepower, he yelled across the sideline to his coaches, “I got the backline. Send people forward.” He had earned an A in his crash course on soccer and was ready to lead. Due to his ever-improving skill and his growing confidence and leadership, Ryan was named as the third captain for the remainder of the season. Our only regret is that we only had one season with him. There is no doubt that he is our Most Improved Player. Congratulations, Ryan.
boys varsity soccer
COACHES AWARD
WALKER A. ’23
Walker plays hard. He plays harder than most. The adage about a dirty uniform evincing a game well-played stands true, both literally and figuratively, as he loves a good slide tackle, and he takes up so much of the dirty work at the heart of our team’s approach to the game: winning loose balls, distributing to teammates, and finding his way on to the end of hopeful passes. Even though he gets dirty, he plays clean, treating the game with love and respect. When he goes in hard for a tackle, he’s always ready to offer an opponent a hand. The effort he puts into his play generates respect and elevates the play of everyone else involved. At Watkinson, being a sportsman looks exactly like Walker - love of team, joy in effort, and respect for the game. Congratulations, Walker.
boys varsity soccer
MCDONALD SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD
JOSIAH A. ’23
As coaches, we value reliability, dedication, effort, and enthusiasm. Josiah has all these things in abundance. Watching him patrol the left end of our backline all season, nobody would ever know that this was his first year on the team. In all of our practices, Josiah locked in, took instruction, worked toward improvement, and seized every scenario as an opportunity to get better. He is the example that we hope all of our athletes at Watkinson choose to follow. Congratulations, Josiah.
Middle School
MS Cross Country
FROM COACH HORWITZ & COACH MCNAMEE
Our middle school cross country season was a lot of fun! Our team took a big step in the right direction this season. A lot of our team members chose to participate in at least one meet and they all represented Watkinson well! Thank you all for being great leaders and teammates! We did a great job supporting and challenging each other to work hard and improve this season!
Believe in yourself. Believe in each other.
Go Rams!
MS CROSS COUNTRY
MOST VALUABLE RUNNER
ANTONIO G. ’28
Antonio truly loves a challenge! Every day at practice he pushed himself to run fast and farther. Antonio’s commitment to improving, as well as his willingness to run with teammates to help them improve, is something for which our team is extremely grateful.
MS CROSS COUNTRY
MOST IMPROVED RUNNER
GEORGIA F. ’28 & VIRGINIA B. '28
Georgia consistently challenged herself, running farther each day up until her final meet. Virginia gained confidence and endurance as she realized how much she was capable of. Together, they supported each other, running as partners at both practices and meets and making tremendous gains over the course of the season.
MS CROSS COUNTRY
McDonald Sportsmanship Award
ZOEY S ’28
“Leadership” can be defined as the word “influence”. It is rare to have a team member who consistently leads by example, is enthusiastic every day, and genuinely cares about their teammate’s success…but Zoey always finds a way to do that for our team! Thank you for representing our team and Watkinson in such a positive way, Zoey!
MS CROSS COUNTRY
COACH'S Award
JORDANA C. ’29
Jordy brims with enthusiasm and determination. Not only does she push herself, but she also is unfailingly supportive of her teammates, and even other teams’ teammates, at practices and meets. Jordy accepts every challenge with a positive attitude that is contagious.
MIDDLE SCHOOL SOCCER
FROM COACH ESCALANTE
We completed the season 1-3 with our first game on fall sports day as our big win. Our team was completely full this season with 22 players! This allowed us to always play a full team for the first time in a few years with plenty of players to sub in to keep maximum energy on the field. We had a variety of players, some who were new to the sport and even a team sport and others who have played before. Our team has grown so much since the beginning in skill, endurance and teamwork and we are so proud of all that they have accomplished.
MS SOCCER
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER
WILL C. '27
Will has been a solid player from day one last year. He is always at practice on time, listens to the coaches and tries his best each and every day. He is a player of many talents able to play in any position he is needed. As a quiet leader, he is developing his voice on and off the field, and always has an encouraging word for his teammates. He scored the only goal during our game against IDS. He has been such an asset to the team and we can’t wait to watch him continue in the Upper School next year.
MS SOCCER
COACH'S Award
EMILY L. ’27
Emily has been such a great addition to our Middle School soccer team this year. She could play any position, but her preference and where she really stood out was on defense. Her athletic abilities shine when she takes the field, and her hustle and determination is that of a dedicated athlete. She played aggressively and consistently asked what she needed to do in order to be a better player.
MS SOCCER
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER Award
TUCKER V. ’29
A quote from his fellow teammate: “We should all be like Tucker”. Tucker listens to both of his coaches and checks that he is in the right place, doing the right thing, and always working at 110%. He’s a great teammate who's willing to share the ball, call for the ball when he’s open, and work on his skills to be better for the team. Since day one, he has improved his skills especially kicking the ball harder and farther to get good passes.
