(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Kayla Patrick – Sports Editor

The Law girls basketball team recently wrapped up a very successful winter.

The team finished its season with a 14-6 record and qualified for the SCC and state tournaments.

This year’s captains were juniors Kailee Frank, Erin Saley, Jessica Centore, and Laura Dulin. The team was coached by Mr. Young, and was managed by juniors Nicole Macchio and Seamus O’Reilly.

“Mr. Young has very high expectations for us but he is very motivating,” Frank said. “He teaches us so much and helps us get better at our ‘basketball IQ.’ He works us hard but he is also fun. He is like the dad of our family.”

The Lady Lawmen won twice as many games as they did last year and swept rival Foran. They finished second in their division behind Hand and hosted Kennedy in the first round of the Class L tournament. The game was close throughout, but Kennedy pulled away late to win 62-57.

Several members of the team mentioned how the team is like a “little family” and that they are very close.

“I will miss the girls on the team the most,” senior Amanda Leone said. “They all made this season really memorable and made it a lot of fun. There was never a dull moment.”

The team had many goals coming into the season, including qualifying for the SCC and state tournaments and winning the Christmas tournament they attended.

“One memorable moment of the season was when we beat East Haven in the championship game in the Christmas tournament,” Leone said. “We worked really hard and we never hung our heads. We just stayed focused and won the game.”

Some tough opponents this season included Mercy, Hand, and Hillhouse.

Key players this season were the team’s captains, along with Leone and junior Paige Szygiel. Saley, Centore, and Dulin all made the All-SCC team and Saley made the New Haven Register’s All-Area team.

Saley and Szygiel excelled in the post, Centore played well on offense and defense, and Frank was a defensive specialist.

Dulin was an outstanding offensive player all year. She led the team in scoring at 17.9 points per game, and scored 34 points in a game against Hamden.

“My favorite memory this season was beating our rival Foran at our last home game,” Dulin said.

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Emily LaLuna – Sports Editor

The Law boys basketball team ended its season recently with a strong finish.

The team finished with two wins, but had many close losses late in the year, including a pair of narrow defeats to rival Foran.

“Throughout the course of the season we improved as a team and as individuals,” head coach Mr. Dooley said. “I think we learned a lot of life lesson about ourselves both as basketball players , as young men and for me, as a coach.”

The captains this season were seniors Patrick O’Brien, Jeremy Doucette, and Dylan Vienneau.

“My most memorable game out of the years I was on the team was this year against Guilford,” Vienneau said. “We went into overtime and won by five points.”

The score ended with 68-63. Vienneau led the team with 20 points.

The win over Guilford was the team’s first conference road win in years. The Lawmen are in a very competitive division, which made this a huge accomplishment for the boys.

“I’m going to miss my teammates and coaches the most,” O’Brien said. “The games and practices were always fun, but they became my second family and will continue to be.”

The team beat Lyman Hall 71-62 which was the highest scoring game they had all season.

“The game I will remember the most would be our home game against Foran,” senior Giovanni Marzullo said. “Our student section cheered us on no matter what the score was, everyone played great and even though we lost it was still amazing.”

The graduating seniors this year are O’Brien, Doucette, Vienneau, Marzullo, and Tyler Curtin.

“I’m going to miss playing our cross town rivals Foran the most,” Vienneau said. “The roaring fans cheering my name and all the adrenaline that goes along with it is really a great feeling.”

With five seniors graduating, the team has a lot of room for potential underclassmen being moved up varsity.

“I’m really going to miss the seniors next year,” junior Matt Marino said. “Their leadership on the team is great and it’ll definitely be different without them around next year.”

Ten potential juniors on the team next year gives the team a good outlook for next season.

“They have a lot varsity experience so we hope to improve our record and our competitiveness,” Dooley said

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Morgan Hennessey – Columns Editor

The fourth winter season for Law’s indoor track team came to a successful end.

Records were broken by athletes in all grades and events on the boys and girls sides.

“We had some amazing accomplishments this season,” head coach Mr. Beler said. “This year we set many outstanding records.”

The team worked out together for two hours every day after school. Beler often refers to track as a team sport, something many people tend to overlook.

Senior Jason Garlock, who is one of the captains of the boys team, ran the 55 meter event as well as the 1600 sprint medley relay.

“Being captain of the team was a great experience,” senior Jason Garlock said. “Especially getting to meet new people and all working out together.”

Garlock tied Law alum Justin Sherrick’s school record in the 55 meter sprint with a time of 6.92 seconds.

The boys’ 4×400 meter team included Garlock, senior Mick Murray, sophomore Charles Fonck, and junior Jason Baker. They broke the school record running it in 4:04.13.

Many of the boys broke personal records of theirs. Junior Antonio Gjuraj, junior Mike Lanzaro, and senior Mike DeLorio all made it to the leaderboard for the 100 meter event with outstanding times.

The girls’ team was just as successful this season, as they were led by senior captains Cori Kalafus and Holly Stewart.

“I’ll miss the family bond that grew in my hurdle world throughout my four years on the team,” Steward said.

Stewart said she improved her skills immensely over the course of her four years, and was able to break a school record her last season. She ran the 55 meter hurdle event in 10.06 seconds.

Senior hurdler Hailey Ashcroft broke her own personal records as well in her final season, running the 55 meter hurdle event in just 11.24 seconds.

“Beler always pushed us to new limits,” Ashcroft said. “He believed we could always do better.”

Kalafus broke the school record for the shot put with a distance of 29 feet, 11 inches.

The girls’ 4×200 meter relay team, composed of junior Bryanna Jennings, sophomore Kiara Smith, freshman Holly Caldwell, and sophomore Olivia Steiner, broke Law’s record with a time of 1 minutes and 57.3 seconds.

“Track is a sport that requires a lot of dedication,” senior Emily LaLuna said. “Doing it has made me strong and really keep my motivation up.”

The Nation of Domination has been running strong for four seasons now, and will keep growing for years to come.

“Next year we will be looking forward to even more great things happening,” Beler said. “The athletes give us so much effort and we are all excited for next year to come.”

By Ian Hugo – Staff Reporter

(Photo courtesy of ReplayIt.com)

Imagine being a freshman in high school and already holding a school record.Jonathan Law’s Jake Gwirtz knows the feeling. Gwirtz recently broke the school record for 100 meter backstroke with a time of 1:01.13, a record that has stood since 1980.

“I don’t see what the big deal is,” said Gwirtz. “I should’ve broken [the record] at the beginning of the season. It didn’t affect my training, it was just annoying.”

Gwirtz, a quiet, humble guy, is all but quiet in the pool. At SCC Finals he finished 14th in the 100 meter backstroke with a time of 1:02.26, at State Trials a time of 1:01.13 and a finish of 14th which broke the school record, and a time of 1:01.78 and a finish of 15th for his second best time in the event at State Finals.

“Jake is a great swimmer with a lot of passion for the sport and it’s great coaching someone who always wants to make every swim his best,” said head coach Asli Kizavul. “I definitely knew Jake was going to break the record, it was just a matter of when. He really wanted to do it before the season ended and he took all of our advice and was able to do it.”

Gwirtz has been a swimmer for seven years, since he was in second grade.

“I started swimming because of my parents,” said Gwirtz. “I wasn’t immediately good at it and I kind of liked it, but I continued to train to get to where I am today.”

Before moving to Milford in seventh grade, Gwirtz lived in West Virginia. As a swimmer, Gwirtz travelled to different parts of West Virginia in order to compete in various swim meets.

After moving to Milford, Gwirtz began to swim for the Hamden Hall Aquatic Club where he swims year-round, minus the school swim season.

Gwirtz came into the season with a goal to set a school record, one which he accomplished during states. Gwirtz broke the school record, set by Don Duncan in 1980, at state trials with a time of 1:01.13, and at state finals broke the previous school record again, however he did not break the time he previously set at trials.

Gwirtz was cool, calm, and collected, saying he wasn’t nervous about the fact he was at states nor was he nervous before his heat.

“Before the race I was thinking, ‘I’m hungry.’ During it I was wondering, ‘What am I going to eat?’ Afterwards my thoughts were, ‘Wish I could be eating right now.’”

Gwirtz said he became aware of his feat when he looked at the board after his heat. According to Gwirtz, his initial reaction upon seeing his time was “Finally.”

“Having Jake in my lane during practice truly benefitted me,” said sophomore Kevin Keramis, Gwirtz’ lane mate in lane 6. “His fast-paced swimming really challenged me to try to swim as fast as him.”

Swimming isn’t Gwirtz’s only talent. He also has a pretty sharp wit that no one, not even his coaches, are safe from.

“Not only is he a fast swimmer, but he also has a lovable sense of sarcasm,” said Keramis. “That [wit] always kept the coaches on their toes and added some humor to the bleak repetition of swimming laps.”

Kizavul is optimistic about what next season has in store for Gwirtz and the boys’ swim team.

“We’re looking forward to him breaking his own record again as well as some of the other ones that haven’t been broken in years and making it to States again,” said Kizavul. “My goals for the team next year are to continue the progress we’ve made so far, continue to get personal bests every meet, and hopefully get another win under our belt!”

Gwirtz says his goal for next season is to set some more records and plans to train in the offseason through long course swimming (In long course, one lap is 50 meters as opposed to short course which is 25 meters).

Although it seems far away, Gwirtz has his sights set on the long term and hopes to be able to swim in college. With the start he’s off to in high school this plan seems more than realistic.

Aside from his feats in the pool, Gwirtz is just like any other kid. When asked about what he does in his spare time, Gwirtz replied, “Sleep,” and said he plans to run cross country his sophomore year in addition to swimming.

When asked about his attitude towards swimming, Gwirtz said, “Sounds like work. That sums it up.”

People wouldn’t think so from watching him.

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By Emily LaLuna – Sports Editor

Law senior Jarrod Butts recently won the Scholar-Athlete Award from the New Haven Chapter of the National Football Foundation.

Each spring, the New Haven Chapter recognizes seniors that have played football and excelled in the classroom. The student-athletes are nominated by their schools and must have excellent grades and participate in school and community activities.

“It was an honor to receive such an award,” Butts said.

While Butts won the award for his performance on and off the football field, he is also a captain of the Milford Indians hockey team and the Law lacrosse team.

“I’m excited to be co-captains with Jarrod during lacrosse season,” senior Brady Dennigan said. “He’s a great leader on and off the field, always giving positive feedback, and I can’t wait to see what this season has in store for us.”

As for extracurricular activities, Butts volunteers at his church doing office work and other various tasks.

“Jarrod is probably one of the nicest guys I’ve met,” senior Kayla Patrick said. “He is such a well-rounded kid and is a great friend to have.”

Butts also excels in the classroom where he takes several Advanced Placement courses, including AP Biology, AP Literature, and AP U.S. History. These classes involve a lot of dedication and take a lot of time out of any student’s day.

“He is always willing to try and help me figure out how to do a problem I don’t understand,” senior Samantha Hudak said. “He doesn’t just give you the answer, he actually explains it.”

Butts’ college plans are not set into stone yet, but he will attend Messiah College, Northeastern University, or the University of Connecticut.

He is looking to get his Bachelor’s degree in engineering, then earn a Master’s degree, and eventually achieve his main goal of becoming an engineer.

“I really want to become an engineer,” Butts said, “I want to make a difference in communities around the world through problem solving and innovation.”

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Kayla Patrick – Sports Editor

Senior Max German has made history at Law.

German is a hard-working student-athlete who is a four-year varsity member of Law’s football, wrestling, and track teams.

He holds the school record in the pole vault at 12 feet, 6 inches, was All-SCC and All-State this fall for football, and recently won his weight class at the SCC Class M wrestling meet. This year, he is the captain of the wrestling and track teams.

“Going varsity all three sports ever since my freshman year was the biggest achievement of my high school career,” German said.

This year, German also picked up his 100^th wrestling win.

“Max is a great kid and he had an awesome year for us,” assistant wrestling coach Mr. Ruzbarsky said.

German’s athletic career began long before high school. He was a dedicated member of the Milford Eagles Pop Warner team and the Milford Indians wrestling team growing up.

In the classroom, German’s accomplishments are equally impressive. He was a CAPT scholar as a sophomore, and this year he will be graduating this spring with distinction. Graduating with distinction is reserved for those students who have successfully completed 200 or more community service hours.

In his spare time, German enjoys working hard at his house, on his farm, and at his job at at Parklane Deli. He also enjoys snowplowing and working on his truck.

“He is the epitome of a great friend,” senior Cori Kalafus said. “I know he will be successful in whatever he does in life, and never fails to put a smile on your face.”

German is known to have a positive attitude and a one-of-a-kind personality.

“He is a hard working student-athlete, and thrives for greatness in every aspect of his life,” senior football player Drew Carolan said.

German’ s favorite courses at Law are history and tech ed. He also enjoys his honors Latin class.

His favorite teacher at law is Miss Rosner and his favorite coach is his football and track coach Mr. Beler. He also gave credit to his family for inspiring him on and off the field.

“My role model is my dad,” German said. “Everything I’ve wanted to be in my life is because of him. I want to follow in his footsteps.”

German will be attending University of New Haven and hopes to be a part of their Division II track team.

He will be majoring in civil engineering with a minor in business. One day, he hopes to own a construction business or become a high-end civil engineer.

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Darby Hudd – Sports Editor

The Law gymnastics team put its name in the school record books this year.

The team finished with a 13-7 record, placed second at SCCs, second at the Class S state meet, and had two members, Tiffany and Melanie Coleman, go All-State.

“This season was definitely one to remember,” senior captain Kayla Patrick said. “The team became so close and we did really well.”

Tiffany Coleman broke the school record with a 9.8 on vault and qualified for the New England Championships in New Hampshire. Head coach Mr. Simon was named the New Haven Register Coach of the Year and both Coleman sisters were named to the All-Area team.

“I’m really proud of myself and my sister,” Tiffany Coleman said. “It feels great being honored for doing something I love.”

Some other key players on the team included captain Kelsey Kopazna, junior Kira Chandra, and sophomore Kristin Frank.

“Our girls worked really hard in perfecting their routines and getting new skills,” Patrick said. “Every meet our goal was to just do our best and that’s exactly what we did.”

The captains said that it was great ending their careers on such a high note and said that they are so proud of everything the team accomplished this year.

“Hearing our name get called for second at states was what made all our hard work worthwhile,” Kopazna said.

This season was extra special for assistant coach Miss LaLuna because these are her first seniors to graduate since coaching the team.

“I’ve watched them grow up these past four years,” LaLuna said. “It’s crazy to think that they are going to college, but I know they are all going to do great.”

The seniors this year were a big part of the team and everyone agreed that they will be missed.

“I’m going to miss how close we all were,” senior Nicole Thibodeau said. “Joining gymnastics was one of the best decisions I made in high school.”

In honor of their last week of practice together, the captains organized a themed practice week.

“We dressed up in PJs, bathing suits, and then had color wars,” senior captain Mathilda Hill said. “I made so many memories with these girls. I’m really going to miss this team.”

(Photo courtesy @lawbball)

By Nicole Macchio – Entertainment Editor

It’s only midway through the season, but the Law girls basketball team already has two reasons to celebrate.

The Eagles have clinched a spot in the state and SCC tournaments with their 8-4 record. Wins against Branford, Sacred Heart Academy, East Haven twice, Amity, Foran, North Haven, and Guilford secured their spot.

The team is ecstatic about their entry into the state tournament, especially after falling just a game short last year.

“(The girls) are a team, they work together and are really a family,” head coach Mr. Young said. “I couldn’t be prouder of them.”

A last-second loss to Career in their last game has the girls ready to take on the next challenge.

“We’ve come a really long way since those first scrimmages,” said junior captain Laura Dulin, “I think that this loss will just push us to do better.”

The team is excited and already working towards their next goal. With the SCC tournament on mind, they just want to improve and advance as far as they can.

“Now we want to continue to get better as a team to try to earn a higher seed in both SCC and state tourneys,” Young said.

Young has stressed to the team that their attitude must remain the same the rest of the season. The only way to do that is to work hard in practice and work together.

“We’re family, we are constantly having a good time and it reflects when we play,” Dulin said.

Dulin and fellow junior captains Jessica Centore, Erin Saley, and Kailee Frank have led the team this season. Junior Paige Szygiel has also stepped up for the Eagles, who have battled injuries and illness over the past few weeks, limiting their bench.

The captains try to push the team so they are always working their hardest and still having fun playing the game.

Dulin won Athlete of the Week on Game Time CT after scoring 29 points in a win over Guilford last month. Centore received Tuesday’s Star of the Day from Game Time CT earlier this month as well.

Upcoming games for the girls include Mercy, Wilbur Cross, West Haven, Guilford, Hillhouse, Foran, and Hamden.

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Emily Carroll – Staff Reporter

The Jonathan Law wrestling team is starting off the year with lofty individual and team goals.

The Lawmen opened up their season with a loss to rival Foran, but have since fared well at their Wallingford tournament and against Hand. The team has been led so far by senior captains Max German, Sean Berg and Tim Rebentisch.

This year’s practices have changed based of the teams they face and to have more time to work on things as a team.

Since German has many years of experience, many freshmen on the team are asking him for guidance to look for ways to be better each day.

“I’ve always wanted to be a leader of the team that has the most wins over any other team in the school,” German said.

Berg doesn’t have much experience, but found the interest with encouragement by the camaraderie of the team.

“It’s interesting, I have all these new freshman looking to me for advice,” Berg said.

Another standout wrestler this year for Law is senior Rachel Escobar. Being the only girl on the team this year doesn’t stop Escobar from wanting to meet her goals.

“I have been really into sports ever since I was young and did a lot of soccer and karate,” said Escobar. “However, that wasn’t aggressive enough for me so I decided to join wrestling.”

Wrestling with the boys at first was a little intimidating for Escobar, but after a lot of practice the team took her more seriously and treated her like any of the other guys.

“They started to view me as a competitor instead of just some girl,” Escobar said.

A goal that many members of the team have is to place at the Class M state tournament. At the end of the season, all the schools in Class M come together for an elite tournament to qualify for states.

“We are aspiring to achieve 20 or more wins this year and take four or more people to the open championships as well as possibly win the B division,” said assistant coach Mr. Ruzbarsky.

According to Ruzbarsky, going to the extra step and competing in the off season is the best way to get prepared. All this year’s senior captains have done this to make themselves strong competitors.

(Photo courtesy @jlhsathletics)

By Leslie Terres – Staff Reporter

The Law boys swim team is beginning its season with a new coach and new goals.

Although many team members are swimming for the first time, it looks like they have a very bright future ahead of them based on their positive attitudes.

“I’m looking forward to seeing everyone improve their times and forms so that by the end of our season they will be able to look back on the first practice and be proud of how far they’ve come,” junior captain Colby Brennan said.

New members of the team are also excited to get started.

“I love swimming with all my friends and watching (everyone) work hard to improve every day,” freshman Jack Pincus-Coyle said.

The team will be competing in individual and relay events using all strokes. They will compete in 11 meets, not including SCCs and states.

“We have a lot of great talent on the team and we’re working towards breaking some records which I definitely think will happen by the end of this season,” said Miss Kizavul, who takes over as head coach this year replacing Miss Rosner.

For practice, the boys are bussed to Foran, which is also where all of their home meets will be.

Practices consist of a warm-up to start where the boys use pull buoys and kick boards followed by a variety of different workouts focusing on strokes, sprints, and long distances. They also set time aside to work on starts and flip turns.

“I am excited to coach this year; it’s a new experience for me, but because I am a former Law swimmer myself it made the transition a little easier,” Kizavul said. “My favorite things about coaching the team so far are getting to know more students and helping them succeed in a sport that I love.”

The team already competed in their first meet. Even though they fell to Hand, they still seem very motivated to improve and do better as the season goes on. They are focused on personal improvement.

“I love being on the team, all of the guys are nice and I’m looking forward to getting in better shape and enjoying some banter with my mates,” junior Ian Hugo said. “Since there’s not that many kids on the team I think it makes us closer and more like a family, from day one there was an instant bond between all of my team members and I feel like I’ve known them forever.”

The team also has meets this season against Hamden, Haddam-Killingworth, Sheehan, Foran, Lyman Hall, Bunnell/Stratford, Kennedy, North Haven Shelton, and West Haven.

“Our team is filled with great kids with great sportsmanship and camaraderie that would make anyone feel welcome,” Kizavul said. “It’s also a great exercise. We’re a smaller team with a big heart and would love to have more swimmers join us.”

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Emily LaLuna – Sports Editor

The Jonathan Law gymnastics team is looking forward to a successful season.

The team opens its season on Monday, December 22 against Hamden.

Head coach Mr. Simon and assistant coach Miss LaLuna see bright things in the team’s future.

The captains for this season are seniors Kayla Patrick, Kelsey Kopazna, and Mathilda Hill.

“I’m helping the freshman get used to the way things go,” Patrick said. “I enjoy helping them learn new skills and spot them when they do it themselves.”

The freshmen are a great addition to the team. Many are coming into the season with experience, which really helps the team out a lot.

The gymnastics team is also performing at the next pep rally with an all-original routine choreographed by Kopazna, Patrick, and sophomore Kristin Frank to the new song by Meghan Trainor, “Your Lips are Movin’.”

The seniors have set many goals for themselves in their final seasons.

“Personally, this season I’m hoping to perfect my half on, half off on the vault,” Patrick said, “I want my score to count more towards the team, improving this skill would ensure that.”

Some key members on the team this year are seniors Tiffany Coleman and Kopazna, junior Kira Chandra, and sophomores Melanie Coleman, Madison Sosa, Arielle Eighmy, and Frank.

“Having these girls on the team really help boost our overall team score,” Hill said.

Even though the team only began practicing a few weeks ago, the girls feel like the time has flown by already. They are all excited for their meets to begin.

“This year’s team is so close and I feel like we’re a family,” Hill said, “I know it’s only the beginning but I don’t want it to end.”

The freshmen and other new additions to the team all look promising

“I’m happy I decided to join the team this year,” Coleman said. “It’s like we’re one giant family and it’s so much fun.”

The team faces a few hard teams on their way to their ultimate goals of placing well at SCCs and qualifying for states. Those teams include Daniel Hand and cross-town rival Foran.

“Knowing it’s the last time I’ll ever compete against Foran is sad,” Patrick said. “But I’m ready to work hard and beat them.”

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Kayla Patrick – Sports Editor

Jonathan Law’s indoor track teams began their winter seasons this week.

The team is looking to set as many personal bests as possible and hopes to break several school records along the way this season.

“Indoor track is a sport for anyone to participate,” senior Tyler Thammavongsa said. “Whether it’s long jump, the 55m dash, or shot put, there’s a place for everyone on the team.”

The team is coached by Mr. Beler and Mr. Rhode. Members explained how the coaches are extremely supportive in giving them specific workouts, and helping them with anything in order to improve.

“The coaches always know what they’re talking about,” senior Sean Rice said.

The girls indoor track captains are seniors Cori Kalafus, Hilary Luchetti, Holly Stewart, and Haley Palmer. Captains for the boys team are seniors Jason Garlock, Mick Murray, Sean Rice, and Tim Edson.

The boys’ captains are being helpful to the younger members of the team by showing them proper form and technique.

“The freshmen and new additions this year look very promising,” Rice said. “They’re working very hard and I notice them getting better.”

The goal for everyone on both teams is to get better every day.

“As long as everyone has shown improvement from the beginning of the season until the end, I would consider that a successful season,” Murray said.

Hillhouse, Hamden, Amity, Xavier, and rival Foran will be difficult meets for the Lawmen.

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

Key players for the boys team are sophomore Joe Mugford, juniors Nick Ferrara and Mark Dow, and seniors Mick Murray and Jason Garlock.

In the boys’ first meet of the season on December 18, many members already qualified for states, including the 4×200 meter relay team.

The girls will be participating in their first meet on Tuesday, December 23.

Key members for the girls’ team are sophomores Kiki Smith, Olivia Steiner, Colleen Rice, and Bethany Edwards, and senior captains Cori Kalafus and Holly Stewart.

The girls said that they are looking to send as many members as possible to SCCs and states.

“These goals will be achieved because we work so hard in the cold weather everyday which shows how committed everyone is and we all give 110% from the beginning to the end and do the best we absolutely can,” Kalafus said. “As a captain I try my best to help out anyone who is struggling with their event, especially shot put and help them so they can be the best they can be.”

The team practices two hours a day, which includes several vigorous workouts. Depending on the person’s event, a practice often includes sprinting, distance workouts, handoffs, and working and perfecting form.

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Nicole Macchio – Entertainment Editor

Head coach Mr. Young has high expectations for this year’s girls basketball season.

So far, the girls are living up to those expectations. The Eagles opened their season with a 55-41 win against Branford and a 59-53 win against Sacred Heart, making them 2-0 to start the year.

“We really want to make it states, which is one of our biggest goals,” said junior captain Jessica Centore. “But it’s also important that we work together really well and beat teams that think we won’t win because of our previous record.”

Making it to states is one of the main goals for the girls this year, and they are working to get the eight wins necessary to make it there. After finishing one win short of states a year ago, Young believes that this could be their year.

“The team is looking good, they work hard and they have good chemistry,” Young said.

The key players for Law this year are junior captains Erin Saley, Laura Dulin, Kailee Frank, and Centore, as well as juniors Paige Szygiel and Brooke Hiatt and senior Amanda Leone.

Dulin was named to the New Haven Register’s Preseason Top 25 Players in the Area list. Centore is the team’s leading scorer through the first two games and was named GameTimeCT’s Star of the Day after scoring 15 points against Sacred Heart.

The four junior captains have made it a point to set the tone for this season. The biggest games for the Eagles this season will be against Hillhouse, Hand, Guilford, and rival Foran.

One major focus of the team this year is to get better every day at practice. In order to have the right mindset, Young has been focusing on working hard during daily practices.

“Practices are fun, and practices are difficult so that when we play the games the games are easier,” Young said. “Preparation is making sure that whatever team we are playing, we know exactly what we’re doing and we are ready to adjust.”

“Deserve Victory,” the team’s motto that is recited at every practice, speaks for itself.

“’Deserve Victory’ has to do with the work before you get to the game,” Young said. “You know whether you have done what you need to before, the idea is deserve it before you play it and that’s done in practice.”

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

Expectations are also high for the boys basketball team this year, as head coach Mr. Dooley believes his team has a lot of promise.

The team won two of its three preseason scrimmages, including one by 40 points.

“We look much improved from the last three years,” Dooley said. “Skill-wise, we have improved our shooting and our defense, and mentally we come in with a better attitude and more focus than we have in past years.”

The team has tried to set the tone at practice this season with tough drills.

“Practices are intense and we’re focused on improving skills and also reviewing offense and defensive concepts,” Dooley said. “I don’t like to practice for a long time. I think ‘get them in, do what you need to do, then get them out.’”

Winning eight games and qualifying for states is a major goal for the team. New and returning players will contribute to the team’s success this season.

“Returning starter Dylan Vienneau and newcomers Nolan Beardsley and Justin McFadden are going to be scoring a lot of points and have been hustling a lot,” senior captain Jeremy Doucette said. “They’re going to be key players for sure.”

The team is working hard with their motto always in the backs of their minds: work hard, play together, overcome the obstacles, meet the challenges, and make sacrifices.

Law will key early season games against Derby, Ansonia, and Lyman Hall. They play rival Foran on January 16 and February 13.

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Darby Hudd – Sports Editor

This year the Milford Indians co-op hockey team has the ultimate goal of making it to states once again.

Last year the Indians went 13-9-1 and made it to the semifinal round in states, where they eventually fell to Amity 5-4. This year, they’re looking to redeem themselves.

“Our overall goal is to get those eight wins and make it to the states playoffs,” senior Charles Knights said. “We also are trying for a division title.”

The team has been training hard for the upcoming season, starting in the summer with conditioning and captains’ practices.

“I wanted the boys to be able to keep up the intensity the entire game, so we started captains’ practices earlier this year,” senior captain Jarrod Butts said.

The team has seven seniors, four of which attend Law. All four of them said the year is already moving too fast.

“Playing as a senior already is unreal; the time is flying by,” senior Colin DiPisa said. “Before we know it, it’s going to be senior night.”

The seniors have been playing together on the Indians for the past four years, and some also play together on a travel team in the offseason.

“I’ve made such a bond with all the boys, we are more like brothers now,” senior Brady Dennigan said. “It’s sad knowing it’s my last season with them.”

The seniors have also had to step up and help lead the underclassmen. With a handful of new teammates the seniors are really trying step up.

“We’re trying hard to become a closer team,” Knights said. “Chemistry is key on and off the ice.”

With 28 members on the team, the captains say it’s hard to pick just a few key players.

“Without just one person we wouldn’t be able to get the job done,” Butts said. “Everyone is extremely important.”

The SCC is one of the toughest conferences in the state, so the Indians have some tough matches coming up this season.

“Our biggest competitor is probably Branford, considering we beat them to knock them out of the state tournament last year,” Knights said. “They’ll be looking for revenge on us.”

Butts thinks that the team will have to fight for every win because of how competitive all the teams are.

The Indians open up their home schedule at the Milford Ice Pavilion on Saturday, December 20. The team is really looking for everyone’s support this season.

“The team can’t wait to see all the fans ready to support at our games,” Dennigan said.

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Darby Hudd – Sports Editor

The Law-Foran football rivalry was as intense as ever this year at the annual Thanksgiving Day game.

Both teams put up a tough fight, but Foran pulled away in the second half for a 41-21 win.

The Lawmen said that they added extra practices the week before to prepare for the big game.

“Everyone knew they had to work harder that week,” senior Tim Edson said. “I saw an extra spark of intensity in all the players.”

In the first half of the game, the action was back and forth between the two teams.

Law scored all three of its touchdowns in the first half. Senior captain Giovanni Marzullo returned a kickoff 75 yards for a score and had a 10 yard touchdown run, and senior Max German added a 55-yard touchdown run.

All of the players were proud of how they performed, but they knew the win slipped away after a few mistakes just after halftime.

“We had some costly mistakes in the second half which led to some quick scores,” Marzullo said.

Overall, the team and especially the seniors were very proud of what they put out of that field.

“My personal best play of the game was tackling their QB just after he let the ball go,” senior captain Drew Carolan said. “I’m sure he felt that one.”

The Lawmen said they played their hearts out, and the seniors were proud that they got to finish this game with their brothers by their side.

Looking back, the team had a memorable season.

Law opened the year 0-4, but rallied to win five games in row, defeating East Haven, Sheehan, Guilford, Branford, and Lyman Hall.

“The most memorable moment of the season was the Sheehan game,” senior captain Sean Rice said. “We were down the entire game and then came back to win.”

Law beat Sheehan 35-34 on October 24 when Marzullo intercepted a two-point conversion in the closing seconds.

“When Gio picked off the conversion and the team stormed the field, I’ve never felt so proud to be a part of any program,” Edson said.

This year proved to be one of the best seasons for the Lawmen since 2007, when Law finished 9-1. Marzullo, German, Carolan, Rice, and Mick Murray were all named All-SCC, the SCC coaches and the New Haven Register voted head coach Derrick Lewis as SCC Division II Coach of the Year and the Sheehan vs. Law game was voted Game of the Year by the Register.

“I’m so proud to not only be a captain of this team but to just be a part of it,” Marzullo said.

(Photo by @kristin22frank)

By Emily LaLuna – Sports Editor

Senior Night was more emotional than ever for the Law volleyball team this year.

Law hosted its first “Dig Purple Game” on Wednesday, October 22, in memory of Maren Sanchez. The game also served as the team’s Senior Night.

The opponent for Senior Night was crosstown rival Foran, which added another exciting component to the evening.

Freshman Maddie Baldieri opened up the night with an amazing performance of “The National Anthem.”

(Photo by @annatango115)

“She did an awesome job,” senior Samantha Hudak said “She sounded flawless.”

This year’s seniors are Kayla Patrick, Megan Gritz, and Martha Smith. They are also the team’s Senior Leaders.

“It was our last home game and it was sad to think that I’ll never play on this court again,” Gritz said.

The girls also honored Foran’s seniors: Ashley Mendillo, Janae Owen, Jenna Zacharelli, and Kayla Ellis.

To fit the game’s “Dig Purple” theme, everyone who attended wore purple. The team also sold purple T-shirts and purple signs were hung around the gym.

On the back on the shirt was a quote that read, “Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather an opening where you are shining down to let us know you are happy.” Underneath the quote were the words, “We love you, Maren.”

The game had a lot of meaning to the players and the crowd. The game took place following dedication of Maren’s Memory Garden.

“Knowing that the game was dedicated to Maren, we wanted to play our hearts out for her,” Patrick said.

The game was challenging for the Eagles, who lost 3-0 despite playing a very close third set.

“It being our last game, and more importantly our last time ever playing Foran, it was sad, but I’m proud that we put up a good fight,” Patrick said.

Law ended their season with a record of 3-17, which included one win over Stratford and two wins against Hillhouse.

(Photo courtesy Rostrum Yearbook)

By Morgan Hennessey – Columns Editor

It has been an incredible season for the Law girls swimming and diving team.

As their fall season comes to a close, records continue to be broken. The SCC meet was held on Monday, October 27, and 25 out of the 37 girls on the team qualified in at least one event.

That is the highest total in head coach Ms. Paolini’s tenure at Law.

“We aim to get better every day,” said Paolini. “This year with many newcomers to the sport, we surpassed expectations.”

During the SCC trials, senior Jamie Loma and freshman Hannah Savoie both qualified for finals in two events each, and will continue on with their season.

The relay squad for finals will consist of juniors Kelly Scianna and Haley McNulty, and freshman Pamela Olmos.

“I’m excited to continue swimming,” said McNulty.

This will be the final high school season for many girls on the team, including senior captains Loma, Melissa Hanania, and Phoebe Herbert and senior Hayley Sanchez. Herbert has been on the team for four years.

“It’s been fun, all of the girls get along with each other,” said Herbert. ”I’m going to miss it a lot.”

Loma plans to swim for Penn State after she graduates from Law.

“I think this season went really well, a lot of personal records were broken, a lot of school records were broken, and I achieved most of my goals,” said Loma. “I’m going to miss my teammates a lot, we were like a family and I’m going to miss them when I will be swimming in college next year.”

This season was Sanchez’s first year on the swim team.

“Being a part of the team for the first year was really cool, to see the support from the team was amazing,” said Sanchez. “I was really proud to be a senior and a part of the team.”

The team finished off the season with a dual meet record of 3-11 and individually, many of the girls achieved personal best times.

Senior captain Kelsey Kopazna joined Law’s Top 10 list in diving and is now second all-time in diving score behind alum Alex White.

Savoie also became a part of the Law’s Top 10 times list. She is close to breaking a school record in the 200 and 500 meter freestyle.

Loma has broken three school records so far this season in the 200 meter individual medley, the 100 meter butterfly, and the 100 meter backstroke.

By Emily LaLuna – Sports Editor

The new-look Jonathan Law football team is finally on the scoreboard.

After a tough stretch of games to begin the season, the Lawmen, in their first season under new head coach Derrick Lewis, picked up their first win of the year on October 10 with a 38-8 road victory over East Haven.

The Lawmen are now 1-4 with six games left to play this season.

Senior Max German led the team to victory against East Haven with four touchdowns and over 200 yards rushing.

The Lawmen started out the season with a tough schedule and are easing back into the second half of their schedule which features many winnable games. Law has games remaining against Sheehan, Guilford, Branford, Lyman Hall, East Lyme, and Foran.

“We have the potential to win the next few games,” senior captain Giovanni Marzullo said. “This would put us in a good place for the Thanksgiving day game against Foran.”

The team is staying focused week-to-week, but they are also thinking ahead to their Thanksgiving Day game against the rival Lions. They believe a win is possible if they stay on the path they are on now.

Senior Night is also right around the corner for the team. The Lawmen host Lyman Hall for Senior Night on November 15 at 7 p.m.

On Senior Night, the team’s underclassmen will honor this year’s senior class for all the hard work and effort that they have put in over the years.

“(Senior Night) is very sad to think about,” senior captain Drew Carolan said, “It makes the rest of the seniors and I work harder every day at practice.”

(Photo courtesy ctpost.com)

By Darby Hudd – Sports Editor

While it has been a rebuilding year for the Law volleyball team, the seniors have stepped up and motivated the team to keep fighting.

Despite having just one win on the year, the seniors say that their record doesn’t represent the hard work they have put into this season.

“We don’t stop giving up,” senior Kayla Patrick said. “We’ve had some pretty big comebacks this season.”

Law’s one win came against Hillhouse. Another big accomplishment for the team was winning a set against Cheshire.

“It was a necessary win against Hillhouse and really important to the season,” Patrick said. “It really helped us work together as a team on the court.”

For the varsity team, juniors Kailee Frank, Molly Vargo, Heather Sherrick, and Renee Lynch have all been solid contributors.

This year, the team added 10 new freshmen to their JV team, and all the sophomores were put on varsity.

Seniors said that the freshmen really had to step up because they were the only ones on JV. They had to learn quickly since they were such a young team.

“The freshmen have adjusted well, they have been improving so much since their first game,” senior Martha Smith said.

In past years, volleyball has done several “Dig Pink” games to support breast cancer awareness. This year, the team decided on something new.

On their Senior Night on October 22, the team is dedicating the game to Maren Sanchez.

“The Dig Purple game is just honoring Maren; she had such large impact on our lives and school and we will never forget her,” Patrick said.

The team encourages everyone to come to the game and wear purple.

“I’m really excited to see the intensity of the game and the outcome because it is against Foran,” senior Megan Gritz said.

Everyone on the team is really excited for the big game and is ready to beat Foran.

“It’s bittersweet because it’s going to be a really fun game but knowing that it’s the last time I’ll play in that gym as a senior is sad,” Patrick said.

All of the senior agree that they are going to miss this team and all the fun they’ve had throughout the years.

“I’m going to miss the girls, we play so well together,” Gritz said. “They are all like family to me.”

Some memories that the seniors remember are all their pasta parties and especially the bus rides home from away games, with all the obnoxious singing.

“I’m going to miss saying the cheers after every point made on the court,” Smith said.

Patrick said she is going to miss her teammates on and off the court.

“I wish the team the best of luck next year,” Patrick said. “It’s going to be so sad saying good-bye. I’m going to miss this team and they bond we’ve all had.”

(Photo courtesy Rostrum Yearbook)

By Nicole Macchio – Entertainment Editor

At the beginning of the season, both the Law girls and boys cross country teams said their seasons would be difficult.

Their schedules have proven to be tough, but there have also been some bright spots along the way. As of October 14, the boys have a record of 5-10 and the girls have a record of 7-10.

The girls’ wins include Sheehan and Foran. The boys’ wins include a victory over Notre Dame of West Haven, which marked the first Law had defeated Notre Dame since the 1980s.

For the girls, senior captain Marissa Prizio finished 10^th at a meet in Wallingford.

Senior captain Jeremy Doucette won first place in the boys race against Hillhouse, where he also set his personal best time. He took second place against Foran, losing by a mere three seconds, and also received an award for placing in the Windham Invitational.

Some of the losses for the girls team have due to an incredible amount of team injuries and illness.

“Unfortunately, our team has been facing a lot of injuries so not everyone is competing right now,” senior captain Haley Palmer said. “But overall everyone had a successful season.”

At the beginning of the season, both teams said they wanted to try to improve their times each race – a goal which has been met according to the captains.

“Most everyone has dropped time and has worked hard each practice,” Doucette said. “And that’s all the captains, including myself, and coach can ask for.”

Every year, the top runners from each team go to states. This year, Doucette, Thomas Gambardella, Matthew Zancewics, and Matthew Paulus are heading to states, leaving four spots still open. The spots can go to anyone on the team, according to the captains.

The girls team has not made decisions on who will go to states as of yet.

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

UPDATE: The boys soccer team officially qualified for states with a 6-1 win over East Haven on Wednesday, October 15. Their first round game will be played during the first week of November.

By Kayla Patrick – Sports Editor

Law’s boys and girls soccer teams are hoping to kick it into states this fall.

Boys soccer has the best record of any Law fall sports team this year. The team is one point away from qualifying for states for the first time in 13 years.

As of October 14, the boys have a record of 5-5-2.

The Lawmen are coached by Donato Piselli and has been led this season by senior captains Craig Calderone, Herbie Pritchard, Mike Chodziutko, Jon Costa, and junior Antonio Gjuraj.

“As a captain I try to lead by an example on the field always giving 100%,” Calderone said.

The boys’ game against Hamden was a big win as it was their first road win of the year. The Lawmen also won tough games against Hillhouse, East Haven, and most importantly, Foran.

“It felt amazing to beat Foran after all the times they beat us,” Pritchard said. “I was happy to represent Law with that important win.”

Many of the boys mentioned how the Foran game was very high intensity and emotional. They also said their mission to make states is their top priority right now.

“It’d be a dream come true to makes states especially after four years of not winning any games it’d be a big step,” Costa said. “We will try harder every day to improve as a team and I’ll be very vocal in the midfield.”

Pritchard agreed and said he hope the team would win at least one game in states if they qualify.

“If we make states our new goal is to do our best in the tournament and try to advance as far as possible,” Pritchard said. “As a captain I’m going to encourage the team to work as hard as we can to achieve our goal.”

Some other key players for the Lawmen this season have been the five captains, freshman Kevin Linn, and junior Taylan Altin.

“If we make states it would be one of the biggest accomplishments, but we won’t stop there,” Calderone said. “This will be a stepping stone for seasons to come.”

The boys’ Senior Night is October 22 against West Haven.

“I’m definitely excited to give it my all one last time on the Law field,” Calderone said.

Boys soccer has eight graduating seniors – Calderone, Costa, Pritchard, Chodziutko, Josh Kucewicz, Amar Almidani, Tyler Thammavongsa, and Max Slusky.

“It’s going to be a very emotional game,” Costa said. “I’m going to miss the atmosphere on game day as well as the players and coach.”

Meanwhile, the girls soccer team is coached by Mr. Rhode. This year’s senior captains are Amanda Leone, Cori Kalafus, and Emily LaLuna.

“Being captain is a very important and stressful role but having such a great relationship with the girls on the team made it much easier and a lot of fun,” Leone said. “Also, being a goalie made the role of being captain a lot easier because a goalie is someone who takes charge on the field and the position helped me lead my team.”

So far this season, the girls have two wins. Both came in thrilling victories over rival Foran.

“It felt awesome to win against Foran twice because it’s such a big rivalry and we beat them both times last year so we’re 4-0 against them,” Laluna said.

The second game was intense, with Law winning 2-1 on a late header by sophomore Cassidy White. That victory kept the team alive for the state tournament. They will qualify if they win all of their remaining games.

“Beating Foran was unbelievable,” Leone said. “Unfortunately we cannot make states this year, but coming out of the season with our two wins against our town rival is an incredible feeling.”

Senior night was said to be “unforgettable” by some of the senior players. Although it was a lot of fun, the seniors mentioned how upsetting it was to know it was their last time playing on their home turf.

“I am going to miss being with my teammates,” Kalafus said.

Girls soccer has five seniors graduating this year – LaLuna, Leone, Kalafus, Erica Velky, and Shannon Williams.

“My teammates were literally my second family and I made such a great relationship with every single person on the team,” Leone said. “Practices and games were always a lot of fun and I am going to miss these memories the most.”

(Photos courtesy Rostrum Yearbook and newstimes.com)