By Mirolla Mekaiel
With only a few days left of school, spring sports have officially come to an end. Many varsity athletes have been committed and working hard throughout the season to compete to the best of their abilities.
“I couldn’t be prouder of our spring sports teams,” athletic director Mr. Maguire said. “They have demonstrated incredible dedication, resilience and sportsmanship throughout the season. They embody the true spirit of what it means to be a Gladiator student-athlete, inspiring not only teammates but also our entire school community.”
Although the varsity baseball team had a rocky season, with a record of 6-13, many of the boys worked diligently to improve. Not only were they able to learn new skills and enhance their game, but some also formed strong bonds with one another in the process.
“I’ll miss the connections I made with my teammates and all the memories we have playing together at games and the fun we had at practices. I loved being a part of a team and playing one of my favorite sports while being able to improve my skills,” senior Thomas Reilly said.
Source from Mr. Patrick Maguire
The boys varsity baseball team sits together before performing their skit at NHP's spring pep rally.
The boys varsity lacrosse team had a competitive season. Their efforts during games earned them a record of 8-10, and they showed dedication to the sport on and off the field.
“Playing with my best friends created memories that will last forever. Whether it was on the field or at a dinner, I will especially miss the connection I formed with my teammates. I am so excited to play a sport in college and am looking to further my athletic career,” senior Walter Reyes said.
Source from Mr. Patrick Maguire
The boys on varsity lacrosse exit the field with pride after a successful match.
The girls varsity softball team finished their spring season with a record of 7-12. Many of the athletes built strong bonds that helped their overall team play.
Source from Mr. Patrick Maguire
Coach Rizzuti (far left) and Coach Romanello (far right) stand beside the varsity softball seniors after their senior game.
“My senior softball season was different from any other season I’ve been a part of so far,” senior Madison Reilly said. “The team really began to come together as one this season. My favorite memory was probably winning my senior game. This win really made me understand just how strong our team’s bond was. We came together the best we could to win for the seniors.”
The girls varsity lacrosse team had a challenging season. The girls were able to work up to a record of 6-7. Their strong efforts were enough to get them to the playoffs, where they played against Garden City.
Source from @nhpgirlsvarsitylacrosse Instagram
Athletes on the girls varsity lacrosse team cheer after taking the lead in the middle of the game.
“This year we were able to play hard and compete against multiple prominent teams. With good team chemistry and enough practices, we were able to compete in the playoffs against Garden City,” sophomore Sarah Rose Dempsey said.
The boys varsity tennis team had a successful season with an even record of 7 wins and 7 losses. Many of the boys made the most out of the season, creating many memories throughout.
“This season has been by far the most memorable I had at NHP,” senior Aakarsh Gupta said. “As my final tennis season was coming to an end, I embraced it with my fellow seniors. My favorite part of senior year was the senior game and how all the underclassmen came together to create posters for all the seniors showing their individual interests.”
Sources by Rachel Houng
Junior Rishi Singh reaches for the ball during practice. Gowrisankar Palanickal engages in a drill.
The boys and girls varsity track teams saw many accomplishments, with athletes qualifying to compete at an individual level in divisions and counties. Throughout the season, the athletes worked to build upon individual and team skills.
“My favorite memories would probably be the bus rides of blasting music and singing as a team and enjoying it after a good track meet. The thing I’ll definitely miss the most is the people as much as I love the sport. The people truly make the sport, and without them, I don’t think I would be able to do what I was able to do for the team,” senior Anthony Perkins said.
“Spring season was definitely challenging this year as AP season and the spring track season overlapped. However, it was incredibly fun, and I am really happy that I stuck with it to the end. I was able to cherish the memories I made with my teammates and gave it my all on the track. I will miss the friendships I created on the team as well as the encouraging team atmosphere we had created,” senior Kushpreet Ahuja said.
The unified basketball team came together to build a record of 4 wins and 1 loss. The team’s support by the cheerleaders, as well as the close bonds formed between the athletes, allowed for many memorable moments.
“Beyond the actual game, I always felt like I was in a safe environment when I was surrounded by my teammates. We were all able to celebrate our differences and put together our individual strengths to help the overall team, and that is what makes this sport so special,” junior Karanbir Ghotra said.
Source from Mr. Patrick Maguire
The unified basketball team gathers after semi-finals at Wheatley High School, their last game of the season.