Ready. Set. Win.

Ready.+Set.+Win.

Jacob Gonzalez, Staff Writer

A plethora of talent fulfills the athletic teams that embody the Spartan symbol. Situated by the marvelous Kevin Mckeown, these teams are poised to not only succeed, but are determined to push themselves past their own limits.

By completing a magical comeback against Marian Catholic and demolishing CICS ChicagoQuest, the football team has demonstrated exponential improvement from last year. Led by Coach Novak, they have proved that year-long work, both of the mind and body, has paid off. Although they suffered a loss against Bremen, their path to greatness involves leadership by the SALT athlete of the week Robert Krzak, phenomenal kicker Donal Nugent, and Division 1 linemen Patrick Michaels and Kameron McNicholas.

Alongside the football team, the volleyball team is looking to spike their way to the top with the likes of Northern Michigan commit Allison Yacko. Determined coach Mr. Mcnamara has consistently trained the team to attack the net with a fierceness not many coaches can compete with. Coupled with this player/coach tandem the dynamic duo of Amanda Bulow and Taylor Bulow are ready to do whatever it takes to secure their team some W’s. Their record currently stands at 6-2.

Although the game of golf has roots dating back to 1457, it continues to be played by those who see the game’s beauty. Senior Michael Rollberg has consistently shot near par each outing accompanied by junior Mikey Bernitt who has done the same during his initial year on the team. Coach Pat Mayer and Coach Kate Mallone have done a splendid job trying to develop the future heavy hitters the team will rely on for the varsity squad in the upcoming years. The boys are currently wrapping up their season with conference to be played on the 25th of September, determined to advance to regionals and beyond.

Although the boy’s and girl’s cross country teams don’t necessarily run across the country, they run an awful lot but with great intentions. As each runner is either looking to lower their own times, run farther, or get healthier, the sport is a great opportunity to show improvement of oneself. In the first week of competition both teams have shown great improvement, working together and pushing themselves as noted by Coach Cryan. Coaches Cryan and Szala have put their runners in a situation to succeed, pushing them to their limits and then some. Some runners of note include Alfred Agapito, Juan Hernandez, and Pamela Urchel.

Coach Joiner has an array of assets in the form of skilled soccer players. With a conference record of 2-1-1 the varsity team looks to score some playoff wins. Goalie Thomas Panek and Suliman Ali are born leaders as shown through the style of their play. Off the court field action such as running has allowed the team to persevere through the difficulties that soccer brings. Hustle and heart set them apart from their competition.

Coaches Wagner, Zuzga, and Townsend of the swim/dive team are ready to make a splash this year with returning phenoms Ellie Featherstone and Patty Gil. When asked about the team’s development Ellie had said, “The team is in high spirits, capturing the moment, and elevating to new peaks as a team. Also having a nice year is Anna Gil, who can complete majestic flips and tricks every which way, making one’s head spin at her mad skills.

Last but certainly not least is the talented girls’ tennis team. The Oak Lawn tennis team has been at a record high this year. This year the players have been bringing their A game. Varsity player Larissa Ptak had recently said, “hitting the season off with a bang has put our team in a position to win”. They are looking to serve the other team some losses.

All in all the Spartans of Oak Lawn are ready to fight to be the best, penetrating their minds with focus and looking to revolutionize their team.