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Middle School Runners Descend on Salt Creek Beach for Red vs. Blue Cross Country Meet Use SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
Red and Blue descended on Salt Creek Beach Park again for the 4th Annual Red vs. Blue Middle School Cross Country Meet and Picnic. The 42 6th, 7th and 8th grade team members were divided into two teams and raced through the park and along Salt Creek Beach for the 1.25 mile course. The goal for this race is to have the kids see how much they’ve improved as a result of their hard work all season and to have some fun together before the season ends.

In traditional cross country meets, only the top five finishers per team count towards team scoring. This meet included a non-traditional scoring method where every single member of the team counted towards their team’s final score. Everyone works hard; everyone is pushing themselves just as hard as the next person; it’s only right to ensure that their effort counts in the final score tally.

This year’s result was as close as could possibly be. After all 44 runners had crossed the finish line, we added up the score and the result was a narrow one point victory for the Blue team (451 to 452). It’s easy to tell kids that when you feel tired during the race and your brain tells you that it doesn’t really matter if you put forth that extra bit of effort to pass that one person here or that one person there that it really does matter. It’s a whole different thing to actually do it when you feel like you are completely exhausted. You may not know it at the time, but that one extra bit of effort at that instant could make the difference for the entire team.

This year’s one point margin put that life lesson into perspective. When you work hard, push yourself and do things that you weren’t so sure you could do at the time, it can come back to pay dividends down the road; literally and figuratively.
11/9/2011 3:10 PMCross CountryYesMiddle
Successful Weekend for Tartan CheerleadersUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Tartan Cheerleaders were among the 325 cheerleaders who attended the National Cheerleaders Association's camp from July 12-15 at the University of California San Diego. The four days at camp were spent learning chants, cheers and dances and improving stunting skills. Daily evaluations by the NCA staff gave cheerleaders helpful suggestions for improvement.

The final day of camp consisted of competitions, evaluations and awards. Cheer Coach Jamie McCann is proud to announce that the SMES cheerleaders left the awards ceremony with the Varsity Top Team Chant Award, Varsity Top Team Cheer Award, two Spirit Sticks and bids to compete in the NCA National Competition for both the Varsity and Junior Varsity squads.

Eight Tartan Cheerleaders were nominated by the NCA Staff to tryout for the All American Cheerleading Team. After tryouts senior Ashley Davis, junior Macey Davis and freshman Nicole Fava were awarded spots on the team. Ashley Davis was honored with the Top All American Cheerleader Award for scoring the most points of all nominated cheerleaders for the second year in a row. The other cheerleaders nominated for the team were Varsity cheerleaders Bella Carracino, Kathryn Garcia and Kati Wechsler and JV cheerleaders Hannah Ghavami and Morgan Higgins.

8/19/2011 3:36 PMCheerleadingYesUpper
2010-2011 US End of Year Athletic AwardsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

During the close of the 2010-2011 school year the Athletic Department held their Spring Sports Awards Night which celebrated the successes of our Spring athletes as well as a few other outstanding achievements.  St. Margaret’s has always received outstanding play from the small student body and one of the reasons all of the teams are successful is the impact of the many Tri-Sport Athletes. These are athletes that are recognized for competing in at least three consecutive varsity seasons during the school year. First Year Tri-Sport Athletes (3 Consecutive Varsity Seasons): Freshmen Yamili Burgos and Julianna Coleman, Sophomore Andrew Torok, Juniors Martin Burke, Jon Gencarella, and Alena Riggs, Seniors Lauren Lindquist and Mitchell Pok. Second Year Tri-Sport Athletes (6 Consecutive Varsity Seasons): Sophomores Kelsey Patch and Olivia Santora, Senior Davis Edwards. Third Year Tri-Sport Athletes (9 Consecutive Varsity Seasons): Juniors Gaby Carpenter, Jenny Tedori, and McCaully Patch.

 

We also awarded the Male and Female CIF Scholar Athletes of the Year. This is awarded to the athlete that maintains a 3.5 G.P.A. from 10th-12th grade and is involved in both athletic and extracurricular activities. The Female Scholar Athlete of the Year was Kristin Murray who played girls lacrosse and the Male Scholar Athlete of the Year was Charles Cox who wrestled and played baseball.

 

The night ended with the awarding of the John Balak and Athlete of the Year Awards. The John Balak award was first given in 1994. The winner of this award is unselfish, dedicated to their sport and school, and models a work ethic that every coach desires from his athletes. The Male John Balak Award Winner was David Edwards and the Female John Balak Award Winner was Michelle Lancaster.

 

The Athlete of the Year is awarded to the student who has made significant contributions to sports at SMES and who has demonstrated outstanding athletic ability combined with a good attitude, sportsmanship, leadership, versatility, school spirit, a strong work ethic, and superior effort. The Female Athlete of the Year holds 5 school records and two Academy League Records. This year she was Academy League Champion in three events. She holds the school record for the fastest 3 mile time and the sixth fastest 1600 time in Orange County. She also became the first girl in school history to qualify as a distance runner for the State Masters Meet. The Female Athlete of the Year was Sarah Paddon. The Male Athlete of the Year earned 3 Academy League Championships this past year and holds several Academy League Records. He is a Two-Time Cross Country and Track and Field League MVP and was named to the OC Register’s All-County Cross Country Team. In the past 12 months he has been a part of 5 CIF Championships. This past fall he won Individual and State Championships in Cross Country and also captained the Boys Cross Country to CIF and State Championships as well as capturing two individual Championships in Track and Field. The Male Athlete of the Year was Billy Gaudreau.

 

The 2010-2011 year was an amazing year for our athletic program as we captured 4 CIF Team Championships, a CIF State Championship and 3 CIF Individual Championships.  The Tartans, once again, took home the Academy League Cup and consistently performed well in the playoffs. 

8/8/2011 7:29 PMAll SportsYesUpper
Senior Sarah Paddon Excels on the TrackUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Senior Sarah Paddon capped off a fantastic track career by finishing 10th in the finals of the 1600m run (1 mile) at the CIF State meet, up in Fresno this past Saturday. She completed the four lap race in a personal and school record 4:53.45.

            The week prior Sarah finished 7th at the CIF Southern Section Masters Meet amongst the best milers in all divisions in the section. Her time of 4:54.41 was well under the qualifying mark of 5:00.19 which allowed her to compete in the State Prelims on Friday and a chance to make the Finals on Saturday.

            At Friday's Prelims Sarah raced in the second of two heats, ran a consistent time of 4:54.53 and qualified for the Finals the following day.  Saturday morning dawned cloudy with a soaking drizzle, which persisted through the start of her race, just after six in the evening.  The conditions did not slow her down as she crossed the finish line in as the 10th fastest in the state of California place besting her personal record by a second.

            Sarah's performance on Saturday was the icing on the cake to a spectacular career at St. Margaret's. In this season alone, Sarah broke and set three school records several times over. She now owns school records in the 800m (2:19.48), 1600m (4:53.45), and 3200m (10:58.55), which undoubtedly prove her to be the fastest Tartan girls distance runner in school history.

            The track and field senior captain will be attending Davidson College in North Carolina in the fall where she will be running both cross country and track for the Division 1 Wildcats. Davidson will not only be landing a superb runner but also a natural leader, great student, and a classy person, all of which will greatly missed from the St. Margaret's community.

            Congratulations Sarah and best of luck!

 

6/10/2011 2:43 PMTrack&FieldYesUpper
Eight Spring Athletes and One Coach Named to the All-County TeamUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Eight St. Margaret’s spring athletes were selected by the Orange County Register’s sports writers for the All-County teams.  The All-County teams are selected from any school in Orange County regardless of their CIF-SS division. 

 

Senior Cameron Price was selected to the All-County Swimming team.  Price was selected for his efforts in the 100 Breast Stroke.  During the CIF-SS Swimming Finals, he finished third with a time of 58.13 seconds.  Even more impressive, he swam the 200 individual medley and performed fast enough to be the CIF runner-up, finishing the 200 individual medley in 1:55.54.

 

Junior Chelsie Churchill was selected to the All-County Girls Track and Field team.  Churchill is a triple jumper and she is the Academy League Champion.   She jumped far enough to place third in the CIF-SS Finals.  With this incredible performance, she qualified for the Master’s Meet where she placed 9th jumping a distance of 37’10 3/4".

 

St. Margaret’s Athlete of the Year, Sarah Paddon, was also selected to the All-County Girls Track and Field Team.  Paddon is the Academy League Champion in three events and excelled in the 1600 meters during CIF-SS Finals.  She finished third with a time of 4:56 which qualified her for the Master’s Meet.  She was equally impressive and ran a 4:54 minute race which allowed her to advance to the State Meet.  The State Meet was held in Clovis, California and Paddon finished the four lap race in 4:53.45.  This makes Paddon the tenth fastest 1600 meter female athlete in the state of California.

 

The other St. Margaret’s Athlete of the Year, Billy Gaudreau, was selected to the All-County Boys’ Track and Field Team.  Gaudreau was the CIF-SS Champion in the 3200 meter and the CIF-SS Runner-Up in the 1600 meter race.  He was also selected to the All-County team in Cross-Country earlier this year.

 

The Southern Section Lacrosse runner-ups have four athletes represented on the All-County list.  Junior attackman, Kent Iizuka, earned All-Trinity League honors and finished with 21 goals and 18 assists.  Sophomore, Scott McGowan was also named to the first team.  McGowan is a long stick midfielder who earned All-Trinity League honors and had a .585 face-off percentage with 27 takeaways.  Senior attackman, Mitchel Pok and junior defender, Nolan Lynch were named to the second team All-County list.

 

Lastly, Boys’ Lacrosse Coach, Gerry Manning was named Orange County Register’s Coach of the Year.  Manning is the school’s only head Lacrosse coach where he has led the Tartans for 10 seasons.  He has an overall record of 112-47 and won a State Championship in 2005.  This year he led the team to another Trinity League Championship and reached the finals of the Southern Section Championships.  The team fell short to Foothill HS 10-15, but it was a remarkable season none the less. 

 

Congratulations to all of our athletes and Coach Manning.  You have made this community so proud.

 

Boys All-County Swimming

 

 

Girls All-County Track and Field

 

 

Boys All-County Track and Field

 

 

Boys All-County Lacrosse

 

 

6/7/2011 5:55 PMAll SportsYesUpper
Baseball Player is Ranked #2 Use SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Harrison White is the starting shortstop for the Tartans baseball team. Harrison, a sophomore, is a two year starter who also pitches. He is currently on a 33 game hit streak dating back to the middle of his freshman season. He is currently ranked #2 in the state of California and #9 in the nation among all sophomore infielders in hitting. He finished the season with a .500 batting average and 16 doubles, a .576 on base percentage, and a .769 slugging percentage. Congratulations to Harrison.

 

To see the entire list of hitters click here.

5/26/2011 3:23 PMBaseballYesUpper
Gaudreau Brings Home His Third CIF Title In Twelve MonthsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Billy Gaudreau won his third CIF-SS title in just 12 months taking home the 3200 meter race in the CIF-SS Finals at Cerritos College. Gaudreau ran an excellent race destroying the competition finishing the race in 9:28.

Junior Paul Brenneman ran a great race as well finishing third while Sophomore Brandon Price placed ninth. The trio was also successful in the 1600 meter race. Gaudreau ran fantastically earning CIF Runner-Up honors. Price placed sixth and Brenneman finished seventh in the 1600 meter.

Senior Sarah Paddon who is headed for Davidson College, ran in the 1600 meter and 3200 meter races. Paddon finished fourth in the 1600 meter race with a time of 4:56 which was a personal record by 4 seconds. She ran the 3200 meter in 11:01 where she finished third.

Chelsie Churchill competed in the Triple Jump and leaped 37 feet 11 inches to place third overall. Both Churchill and Paddon qualified for the Masters meet next weekend which is only the second time for any girl in school history.

Senior Devin Dreyer competed in the 300 meter hurdle race and placed seventh. The Tartans had three other athletes who competed in the CIF-SS Finals: Jacob Garrett in Pole Vault and in the Long Jump was Valerie Wu and Gracie Gordon.

Congratulations to Billy Gaudreau and all the competitors.

5/25/2011 9:49 AMTrack&FieldYesUpper
Track and Field Reach CIF FinalsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The St. Margaret’s Track and Field team continued its success by claiming two League Championships on May 6th.  The Girls’ team did not let anyone get in the way of defending their title, finishing 128 points ahead of the second place team (SMES 198, Whitney 70, Oxford 63, Sage Hill 63, Crean Lutheran 41, Saddleback Valley Christian 22).  Gracie Gordon led the Tartans with 1st place finishes in the 4x100m relay, 100m, 200m, and Long Jump.  Sarah Paddon broke 2 Academy League records with 1st place finishes in the 800m and the 1600m.  She also placed 1st in the 3200m, and led the 4x400m relay team to a strong 3rd place finish.  Freshman Tessa Hurr stepped up to the plate and beat the defending 400m champion in a thrilling race.

The Boys’ team went into League Finals a 24 point underdog, but did everything in their power to defend their title.  Strong finishes by Long Jumper Luke Warren, Pole Vaulters Jacob Garrett, Mark Olivier, Justin Ren, and Shane Spaethe, in addition to a fantastic effort by Sam Rubenacker and Justin Ren in High Jump allowed the Tartans to end up victorious.  The Tartans finished 6 ½ points ahead of a talented Oxford team (SMES 153, Oxford 146.5, Sage Hill 84, Whitney 78.5, Crean Lutheran 20, Saddleback Valley Christian 12).  Billy Gaudreau, Brandon Price, and Paul Brenneman finished in the top 3 spots respectively in the 1600m and the 3200m.  Billy also finished 2nd in the 800m and led his team to a strong 2nd place finish in the 4x400m relay.  Devin Dreyer had an incredible finish in the 300m Hurdles, just edging out an Oxford athlete for the top spot.  Max Carpenter also found success in the Boys Shot Put, winning with a throw of 39-8.25.  Freshman Zack Collins was impressive with 2nd place finishes in the 100m and the 200m. 

Following League Finals, a record 21 Tartans advanced to CIF Prelims in Carpinteria, CA.  At Prelims, distance runners Billy Gaudreau, Paul Brenneman, Brandon Price and Sarah Paddon excelled in the 1600m and the 3200m, qualifying for CIF Finals.  Devin Dreyer finished top in his heat in the 300m Hurdles to secure his spot at CIF Finals.  The Tartans also found success in the field events at Prelims.  Valerie Wu (Long Jump) and Chelsie Churchill (Triple Jump) will also continue their season at CIF Finals.  Jacob Garrett (Pole Vault) and Gracie Gordon (Long Jump) finished 10th at Prelims, which is good for 1st alternate at Finals. 

Join the Tartan Track and Field Team this Saturday at Cerritos College for an exciting day at CIF Finals!

5/18/2011 11:53 AMTrack&FieldYesUpper
Cameron Price Excels at CIF Swim ChampionshipsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Three Tartan swimmers competed in the CIF Finals on Saturday at Belmont Plaza in Long Beach.  This year, the Tartans, moved up a division and competed in Division 3 instead of Division 4 and had a great showing.    Junior, Mary Ahearn, raced in the 200 free-style and finished 10th out of 16 finalists.  In CIF, Mary finished higher than any other Academy League swimmer.    In fact, Mary was the only Academy League swimmer to reach the finals.  Ashley Torok swam an incredible race to qualify for the CIF finals.  In just one week, she was able to cut two seconds off her time to qualify for the 100 meter breaststroke in 1:14.9.  In the finals, she finished 16th place in her event.

 

The big story of the day came from Senior Cameron Price.  Cameron competed in two events - the 100 meter breaststroke and the 200 meter individual medley.  In the 100 meter breaststroke, he finished third with a time of 58.13 seconds.  Even more impressive, he swam the 200 individual medley and swam fast enough to be the CIF runner-up.  The 200 individual medley is recognized as one of the most grueling races in swimming.  During this race, each competitor swims one length of each of the four major strokes: butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke and freestyle. He finished the 200 individual medley in 1:55.54.  Cameron was also the Academy League Champion in both these events.  Cameron will continue his swimming career for Dartmouth College. 

 

Senior Jessie Warren competed in the Division 3 CIF Diving Finals last Thursday.  She continued her winning ways placing third overall.  Jessie will continue diving for the University of Southern California. 

 

Congratulations to Cameron, Jessie, Mary, Ashley and all the swimmers for a great year. 

 

5/18/2011 9:27 AMSwimming&DivingYesUpper
Girls Lacrosse Captures Division 2 South County ChampionshipUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The St. Margaret’s Girls Lacrosse Team continued its stellar postseason run last night. The Tartan Girls Lacrosse Team captured the US Lacrosse Division 2 Consolation South County Championship. They defeated the number one seed Capistrano Valley HS Cougars 13-12. The Tartans took an early 7-2 first half lead finishing the first half leading by a score of 8-5. With four minutes remaining the Tartans still led 12-10. The cougars were able to close the gap further to 13-12 with 1:38 left in the contest. However, the Tartans were able to possess the ball for the game’s final 34 seconds to earn the win. The Tartans were led by senior Emily Boone’s 8 goals. St. Margaret’s moves on to the US Lacrosse Southern Section Division 2 Consolation Final on Saturday at Redondo Union High School at 11 a.m. St. Margaret’s will be facing the Los Angeles Area Champion Cate of Carpinteria.

Click Here to view an article about the game on OCVarsity.com

Click Herefor a championship photo gallery.

5/13/2011 5:36 PMGirls Varsity LacrosseYesUpper
Lacrosse Teams Reach South County ChampionshipsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Boys’ and Girls’ Lacrosse teams have reached the South County Championship games, playing today and tomorrow respectively. The boys team defeated El Toro in an exciting game that went into double overtime with a final score of 7-6. Now the team will face their rival, Foothill HS. These two teams met earlier in the season with Foothill winning 13-11. The game will be played at Mission Viejo HS on Wednesday May 11 at 7:00 p.m. Entry fee to the game is $5.00 for anyone 13 and older, and free to kids 12 and under. Click here for a great article written by the OC Varsity about the match-up for tonight’s game.

The girls team reached the Division 2 Consolation South County Championship game after defeating #2 seed, Aliso Niguel HS. The Tartans took a 4-0 lead early but Aliso Niguel battled back. With three minutes remaining in the game and the score at 10-6, Aliso Niguel went on another run, scoring three straight goals. The Tartans were able to hold on, winning the game with a final score of 10-9. This set up a thrilling final game against the #1 seed, Capo Valley HS, to be played at Aliso Niguel on Thursday, May 12 at 5p.m. Entry fee to the game is $5.00 for anyone 13 an older and free to kids 12 and under.

Click Here for a San Juan Capistrano Patch article about both teams.

Please come support your Tartan Lacrosse teams.

5/11/2011 2:07 PMBoys Varsity LacrosseYesUpper
Swimming and Diving Athletes Win LeagueUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Tartan aquatics team completed their regular season this week at the Academy League Swimming and Diving finals at Woollett Aquatic Center in Irvine, and the Mission Viejo Aquatics Complex in Mission Viejo. On Thursday, Senior Jessica Warren competed in Academy League diving finals and won the event by a staggering 40 points over her nearest competitor becoming the 2011 Academy League Diving Champion. On Wednesday and Friday, the swimmers competed in Academy League Prelims and Finals. Of note, Senior Cameron Price is the Academy League Champion in the 200 IM and 100 Breast, and Junior Mary Ahearn is the Academy League Champion in the 100 Butterfly. Price and Ahearn have qualified for CIF in these events, in addition to Ahearn qualifying in the 200 Freestyle and Sophomore Ashley Torok qualifying for CIF in the 100 Breast. In addition, many Tartans also received medals, which go to the top 3 swimmers in varsity events, on Friday. Ahearn received a medal for finishing 2nd in the 200 Free, Torok medaled 3rd in 100 Free, Senior Sam Malagon medaled 3rd in 100 Free, Junior Jake Carpenter medaled 3rd in the 500 Free, and Junior Alexis Oscar-Rodriguez medaled 3rd in the 100 Backstroke. Most importantly, though, the Tartans displayed great determination and resolve on both days of the meet. Amazingly, nearly all of the swimmers, on both Varsity and Junior Varsity, posted personal season records on either Wednesday or Friday. The meet proved to be a great bookend to a fun and successful season for the Tartan Swimmers.

5/9/2011 8:59 AMSwimming&DivingYesUpper
US Lacrosse Teams Enter PlayoffsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The boys' and girls' Tartan Lacrosse teams just finished regular season play and have both qualified for post season playoffs.  The girls will play their first round game this Wednesday, May 4 vs. Esperanza at 4 p.m. at St. Margaret’s. The girls’ lacrosse team had a good season finishing the regular season with a record of 7-9 earning the #3 seed in the Division 2 US Lacrosse Southern Section Playoffs.

After receiving a first round bye the boys will open the playoffs this Thursday, May 5 at 4:30 p.m. at St. Margaret’s. The Tartans will face the winner of the Huntington Beach/J. Serra game on Tuesday. The boys’ had an excellent season finishing with a record of 12-2 and winning the Trinity League Championship.

Please come out and support the lacrosse teams as they advance through the playoffs.

5/3/2011 10:59 AMAll SportsYesUpper
Football Player Named to OC All-Star TeamUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Senior Brennan Smith was named to the Brea Lions' Orange County North-South Prep All-Star Football team.  Brennan will be playing for the South as a linebacker.  As a Tartan, Brennan has played on the varsity football team for 3 years.  He has helped his team win two CIF Section Championships and one CIF State Championship.  As the starting quarterback his junior year he was named to the First-Team All-Academy league and was also an All-CIF kicker.  As a senior he played linebacker, kicker and quarterback.  He was All-CIF as a kicker for the second year in a row and Academy League Kicker of the Year.  This year Max Preps named him to the All-State team.  The National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame recognized football players from Orange County for being scholar athletes.  The players recognized had to be named to First Team All-League and have at least a 3.5 GPA.  Brennan was awarded this honor as well as fellow Tartans Mitchell Pok and Bryan Flores. 

 

The All-Star game will be played at Orange Coast College on July 15, 2011.  Full articles on Brennan’s selection are on the links from the OC Register and Patch.com below. 

 

OCVarsity.com

 

Patch.com

4/30/2011 8:41 PMVarsity FootballYesUpper
Soccer Player Commits to Carnegie Mellon UniversityUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

We are pleased to announce that Boys Soccer player Colin Shaffer has decided to attend and play soccer at Carnegie Mellon University. Carnegie Mellon is a Top Ten Division III Soccer program. More importantly, though, Carnegie Mellon is recognized internationally for its academic rigor. Outside of continuing his soccer career post collegiately at the professional level, Colin wants to pursue a career in sports law. Colin had multiple offers from Division I, II, and III schools but chose Carnegie Mellon because of the special emphasis they put on having scholar athletes. Colin was a four year starter for the St. Margaret’s Boys Soccer Team and was named Academy League Most Valuable Player. We look forward to watching Colin continue the success he has had at St. Margaret’s at Carnegie Mellon University.

4/25/2011 7:07 PMBoys Varsity SoccerYesUpper
US Coaches RecognizedUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Orange County Register’s sports page has put together a list of the top coaches in the county for this school year.  They looked at coaches who stood out from the pack, did the most for their team, those that met high expectations or lead their team through adversity. 

 

The St. Margaret’s Athletic Department had three coaches included in this list.  Rob Lakeman and Dylan Wade were included for their work with the Cross-Country program.  This is what reporter Jason Eichelberger had to say about the coaches.  The Tartans coaching duo helped direct a young Tartans team to the best season in school history. St. Margaret's won the Division 3 title at the Orange County Championship and the Academy League for the fourth consecutive season. The Tartans then won the first CIF-SS Division 5 and CIF Division 5 state title for the first time in school history.”

 

Also included in the list was Johnny Marmelstein.  Coach Marmelstein was also recently awarded Girls Soccer Orange County Register Coach of the Year.  He was also nominated by Jason Eichelberger who said this about Coach Marmelstein.  “After three straight seasons ended with losses in the semifinals of the CIF playoffs, Marmelstein finally helped lift the Tartans over the hump in 2010-11. The team won its 13th Academy League title in 14 years and finished an impressive postseason run with a CIF-SS Division 6 title. The win marked St. Margaret's first outright CIF championship in school history. The Tartans also enjoyed the county's longest unbeaten match streak of the 2010-11 season (25).”

 

You can find the entire list of coaches at http://www.ocvarsity.com/articles/-26281--.html.

 

4/11/2011 12:16 PMAll SportsYesUpper
Tartan Lacrosse Wins Carmel Invitational Tournament Use SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
This past weekend the SMES boys lacrosse team traveled north to participate in the Carmel Invitational Lacrosse Tournament. This was the ninth year the Tartans have played in the tourney, having also won the Crown in 2008. On a cold rainy Friday and Saturday the boys won all off their five games , beating perennial CIF-San Diego powerhouse Poway 5-2 in the final to win the championship trophy. The Tartans played great team offense scoring 47 goals and also great team defense having only 15 scored against. Junior Kent Iizuka was named to the All Tournament team. The boys return to Trinity league action Tuesday, at home facing Mater Dei.
3/28/2011 6:04 PMBoys Varsity LacrosseYesUpper
Soccer Players Honored by OC RegisterUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The girls’ soccer team won the CIF Championship earlier this month and are still reaping the benefits.  Tuesday, March 22nd the Orange County Register named the county’s top soccer players. The OC Register’s All-County team is made up of high school girls who compete in Orange County and represent all divisions of CIF.  Junior forward, Katie Donahue was named First Team All-County.  This is the first time in school history that we have had a girl soccer player named to the All-County team.  Katie had an excellent season.  She was one of the squad’s leading scorers while tallying the second most assists for the team.  Katie accomplished all this after missing the first two months of the season due to injury.  Coach Marmelstein said, “It is scary to think how much more Katie could have done this season if she hadn’t missed so much.  She had a great year.” 

Katie finished the season with nine goals and 18 assists, including four matches of two or more assists.  She was also named to the All-Academy League first team.

 

At the same time, captain and midfielder McCaully Patch was named to the third team All-County.  McCaully was the Academy League’s Most Valuable Player and was also one of the teams leading scorers.  Even more impressive, she led all Orange County players in assists, with a total of 22.  The OC Register also recognized Coach Marmelstein as the County’s Coach of the Year.  Coach Marmelstein is in his 11th year as our head varsity soccer coach where he has now won two CIF Championships with the Tartans.  He guided this year’s team to their first ever Tartan Shootout championship, an undefeated league championship and the county's longest winning streak of the season (25 consecutive matches). 

 

 

 

3/23/2011 3:39 PMGirls Varsity SoccerYesUpper
Girls Soccer Captures CIF TitleUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
The Tartans defeated San Dimas, 2-0, to win the CIF-SS Division 6 championship at Mission Viejo High.

Click Here for OC Varsity Article.
3/4/2011 9:57 PMGirls Varsity SoccerYesUpper
Girls Soccer in CIF FinalsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Tartan Girls Soccer team will compete to capture the programs second CIF Championship and the school's 24th team CIF Championship.  They play San Dimas High School at Mission Viejo High School this Friday March 4th at 5:00 p.m.  Admission is $9.00 for adults and $5.00 for children under the age of thirteen and students with ID. 

 

2010-2011 Girls Soccer Team

Regan Anderson, Alexa Barbaresi, Natalie Barbaresi, Stefanie Brunswick, Olivia Collins, Tory Davidson, Katie Donahue, Katie Fragapane, Allie Frost, Madison Glaser, Michelle Lancaster, Alexis Leon, McKenna Marmelstein, Kelsey Patch, McCaully Patch, Alena Riggs, Shirin Sadri, Ellie Schwartz, Caroline Smith

Coach Marmelstein, Coach Cope

 

Come support your Tartans!

3/3/2011 10:08 AMAll SportsYesUpper
CIF Semi-Finals for Girls SoccerUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The St. Margaret's Girls' Varsity Soccer Team advanced to the semifinals for the fourth consecutive season as they defeated visiting South Pasadena 3-1 in the CIF-SS Division 6 quarterfinals. The Tartans had the Tigers on the run from the outset and controlled the tempo for most of the match. Katie Donahue opened the scoring in the 13th minute for the hosts as she received a pass near the corner of the penalty area from McKenna Marmelstein and was able to slot a low shot past the Tiger keeper. In the 19th minute, junior captain McCaully Patch collected a misplayed ball near the top of the box and hammered home a terrific shot to give the Tartans a 2-0 lead and send South Pasadena reeling. The score remained 2-0 at halftime.

As the second half began, it was the chastised Tiger forwards who relentlessly attacked the Tartan back four of Alexis Leon, Kelsey Patch, Natalie Barbaresi and senior captain, Olivia Collins. However, the defense, led by senior goalkeeper Michelle Lancaster, has faced this kind of pressure before and they dealt with the renewed Tiger assault with poise and composure. Just when the visitors thought they might have gained the upper hand, Donahue took over and dribbled past the tired Tiger defense and crossed a beautiful ball in the path of leading goal scorer, freshman Alexa Barbaresi, who neatly put away her 19th goal of the season. In the dying minutes of regulation, a bobbled ball in the box led to a penalty kick for the Tigers that senior defender Marian Slocum put away for South Pasadena, but that was little consolation to a team that will graduate 11 seniors this spring. St. Margaret's improves to 23-2-1 and a county best 21 game unbeaten streak while South Pasadena finishes their season at 13-7-5.

St. Margaret’s now finds themselves in a very familiar position in the Division 6 semifinals having advanced this far in the previous three seasons. Each time, the Tartans were on the road facing the higher seeded team.

2008: #2 Calvary Murrieta 2, #7 St. Margaret’s 0 (overtime)

2009: #1 San Jacinto 2, #4 St. Margaret’s 0

2010: #1 Desert Christian 4, #4 St. Margaret’s 1

 

And, while the Tartans are on the road at Ocean View High School in Huntington Beach next Tuesday, they will enter this match as the #1 seeded team in the division. The Girls’ Varsity Soccer Team realizes that they have a tremendous opportunity to advance to their first CIF Championship match since 2006 and they will not take the Sea Hawks lightly, a team that they defeated 4-0 earlier in the season.

A rooter bus will be leaving at 2:15 p.m. from the Pasternack Field House for those who would like to attend the game.  Please email Mrs. Maga to secure your seat. Susie.maga@smes.org.  Come out and support the Tartans as they take on Ocean View this Tuesday, March 1st @ 3:00 p.m. in Huntington Beach! Go Tartans!

 

 

2/28/2011 9:34 AMAll SportsYesUpper
US Winter Playoffs in Full SwingUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

After advancing past the first round of playoffs the Girls Soccer team and Boys Basketball teams play Tuesday February 22nd in Oxnard, CA.  The Girls Soccer team defeated Santa Ana HS 8-0 to reach the second round of CIF against Cate School in Oxnard.  The two teams will play at 3:00 p.m. on the campus of Cate School.  Just 30 miles away the boys basketball team will be playing Santa Clara HS in the Quarter-finals of their CIF playoffs.  Last Saturday the boys traveled to Burbank to beat a tough Village Christian squad, 69-52.  This will be an exciting day in Tartan athletics.  Plan to spend the day in the beautiful city of Oxnard supporting our two teams.  (Check the Athletic Website for directions)

On Wednesday February 23rd, the Boys Soccer team will face Notre Dame of Riverside for their second round playoff contest.  The boys defeated Villanova Prep 2-0 to advance to this second round match.  The game will be played at 3:00 p.m. in Riverside. 

 

2/23/2011 9:13 AMAll SportsYesUpper
Honoring our Winter Senior AthletesUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

 

 

This week most Winter sports will be honoring their seniors before a contest.  Please come and help us honor our seniors for their commitment and dedication to their programs.  You can see them at one of the following games:

 

Girls Soccer           Tues.  Feb 8     7:30 p.m. Tartan Field

Girls Basketball      Thurs. Feb 10  6:00 p.m. Pasternack

Cheerleading          Thurs. Feb 10  6:00 p.m. Pasternack

Boys Basketball     Thurs. Feb 10  7:30 p.m. Pasternack

 

 

Come out and support your Tartans as we celebrate our seniors!

2/7/2011 9:27 PMAll SportsYesUpper
US Athletics Having Success this WinterUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Boys Basketball team is having a great season and is currently in second place in the Academy League.  Their only loss in league is to Brethren Christian where they lost to them in overtime 47-55.  The two will meet again at St. Margaret’s on Feb. 4th at 7:30 p.m.  Senior Mitch Marmelstein is leading the Tartans with 21.2 points per game and 3.4 assists per game.  Their last three league games are all at home with their senior night falling on February 10th at 7:30 p.m. The Junior Varsity team has made great strides this year and is currently undefeated in league play.   

 

The Girls Varsity Basketball season is well under way as it heads into the second round of league play this week. With an 11-6 overall record and a 4-1 league record the team has a firm hold on second place in league. Back to back games against first place Whitney on February 1st and pre-season favorite Brethren Christian on February 4th  will certainly determine final league standings as well as positioning in post season playoffs. Brethren Christian will be out to avenge a 47-31 loss to the Tartans in January so it should be an exciting rematch.

The Junior Varsity team has improved a great deal this year and is currently in second place in league with a 3-1 record.  Come out to cheer your Tartans on as they play at home three times in the month of February and achieve their goal to finish the season strong!

 

The SMES Boys Soccer Program is currently undefeated in league, with both JV and Varsity in first place.  Both teams host Oxford Academy this Friday in very important league matches.  Also, next Tuesday Feb. 1st is Senior Night as the Varsity host Whitney High School in a battle for first place in the Academy League.  We will be honoring our 10 seniors before the match starts at 7pm. 

 

The girls’ varsity soccer team is currently riding a 13 match unbeaten streak and have only allowed one goal against in the past ten matches. Junior Captain McCaully Patch is the leading scorer for the Tartans with 10 goals and 14 assists which leads Orange County. Senior Goalkeeper Michelle Lancaster has made 42 saves in 17 matches, has 12 shutouts and has only allowed 6 goals all season. In addition to winning the Tartan Soccer Shootout, the varsity is undefeated in league (6-0), 14-2-1 overall and are the #1 ranked team in CIF-SS Division 6.

 

The girls’ junior varsity team is 7-7-2 overall and are on their own unbeaten streak outscoring their opponents 5-0 in the last three matches. The JV’s are at present in first place in the Academy League!

 

 

 

1/26/2011 1:59 PMAll SportsYesUpper
Girls Soccer Wins TournamentUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

They say that “seven” is a lucky number. Well, on this night, seven was a very lucky number for the St. Margaret’s Girls’ Varsity Soccer Team! In the seventh year of the Tartan Soccer Shootout, this years’ version of the Tartans did what no other SMES girls’ soccer team could: win their own tournament! After battling and dominating the undefeated (10-0) #4 ranked team from Division 5, Grace Brethren, to a 0-0 tie, it came down to penalty kicks to determine the tournament championship. On the Tartans seventh kick, freshman forward Alexa Barbaresi planted a shot in the side-netting that no goalkeeper would have touched! It came down to senior goalkeeper Michelle Lancaster to stop Lancer’s tying seventh penalty kick. Unfortunately for Grace Brethren, seven was not their lucky number on the night as the Lancer forward hit a terrific shot but Lancaster guessed right to make a diving save and give the Tartans a well-deserved 7-6 victory in sudden death penalty kicks!

 

Lancaster did not allow a single goal in the tournament and was named the Tartan Soccer Shootout Most Valuable Player! The Tartans end 2010 at 8-2 with a tournament championship in their back pocket as they begin 2011 in Academy League play! Congratulations to the Tartans!

1/5/2011 10:59 AMGirls Varsity SoccerYesUpper
Girls Soccer Alumni GameUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Marisa Yanez ‘07 scored a hat-trick including a goal in extra time to rally the Tartan Alumni in a 4-4 thriller. Junior midfielder McCaully Patch scored first to put the varsity up 1-0 early in the match. After Yanez scored her first goal, the varsity responded by unleashing sophomore forward Regan Anderson who scored a hat-trick of her own to give the varsity a commanding 4-1 lead. Coach Marmelstein, playing for the alumni, would start the comeback for the graduates early in the second half as he was left undefended outside of the 18 yard box and chipped the goalkeeper to lead the riposte! Yanez would then score two more goals to even the score a 4-4. With time waning, Alex Dreyer ’08 had a golden opportunity to finish off the varsity only to see her well taken shot just miss wide.

 

The match was an entertaining, back and forth affair with both teams shaking off the Christmas vacation rust to make a match of it. Congratulations to both teams on a terrific game to watch! Afterward, the alumni, varsity team and families went to Ball Park Pizza to celebrate a well played contest!

 

The following alumni attended today’s soccer game:

 

Lauren Danjoi ‘05

Carly Andler ‘06

Lauren Johnson ‘06

Kate MacNair ‘06

Nicole Sady-Kennedy ‘06

Courtney Kent ‘07

Marisa Yanez ‘07

Alex Dreyer ‘08

Jessica Zavalza ‘09

Mary Rachel Walsh ‘09

Tasha Pavlovich ‘09

Tasha Afshar ‘10

Ashley Bean ‘10

 

12/31/2010 9:26 AMGirls Varsity SoccerYesUpper
Boys Soccer Wins TournamentUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
The SMES Boys’ Varsity Soccer Team began their season with a championship, winning the Linfield Christian Tournament on Saturday night in Temecula.  The Tartans battled back from a one goal halftime deficit to defeat cross town rival Saddleback Valley Christian 2-1 in the tournament final.  In the four tournament games the Tartans outscored their opponents by a total of 17-2.  Special congratulations go out to Seniors Devin Dreyer and Brian Vail, along with Juniors Cole Gennrich and David Field for making the All-Tournament Team.  
12/7/2010 9:22 AMBoys Varsity SoccerYesUpper
Tartans Capture Two CIF Championships on Championship SaturdayUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

In an historic day for St. Margaret’s Athletics, the Tartans won two CIF team Championships in Boys Cross Country and Girls Volleyball. St. Margaret’s Junior Billy Gaudreau won the individual Cross Country CIF Championship. Girls Cross Country also competed in CIF Finals today finishing fourth with both teams qualifying for the State Championships next weekend.

To read The Orange County Register article on the Girls Volleyball Team, click here.

See The Orange County Register’s Championship Saturday photo gallery for images of the Tartans Boys Cross Country team in championship action, click here

Click here to view the CIF Championships photo gallery.

11/23/2010 12:09 PMAll SportsYesUpper
Girls Tennis Clinches Third Straight CIF Championship-Tartans Win Three CIF Championships in Three DaysUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
In a hard-fought battle against Academy League rival Sage Hill, the Tartan Girls Tennis team won its third straight CIF Championship today. The match came down to games after the teams tied in sets 9-9. The Tartans edged out the Lightening by nine games, 69-60. This is the third straight CIF Championship win for the Tartans, defeating Rio Mesa in the 2009 finals, and Sage Hill in 2008. This is also the third consecutive undefeated season for the Lady Tartans.
 
Today’s championship victory closes out a weekend of unprecedented success for Tartan Athletics. Girls Volleyball and Boys Cross Country also won CIF Championship Titles on Saturday. Friday night, Tartan Varsity Football advanced in first round CIF playoff action after defeating Campbell Hall 17-10. Congratulations Tartans!

To read match coverage from The Orange County Register, click here.

Click here to view the CIF Championships photo gallery.
11/23/2010 12:09 PMGirls Varsity TennisYesUpper
CIF FinalsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Our successful fall athletic season is becoming more and more successful as the days go on.  The two time defending CIF Tennis Champions are in the position to keep their streak alive.  The Girls Tennis team defeated Valencia High School in a thrilling semi-final match.  The Tartans shocked Valencia to take the first round of sets, with a score of 5-1.  After the second round of play the team went up 9-3.  With only one more set needed, the Tartans went on to win 2 more sets to take the victory at 11-7.  They will defend their crown on Monday November 22nd at 10:00 am at the Claremont Club in Claremont.  The girls will face league rival, Sage Hill, in the finals.  The Tartans beat Sage Hill in 2008 for the first of their two consecutive titles. 

 

The Boys and Girls Cross-Country teams have also positioned themselves to earn a CIF title.  The Boys team, who is currently ranked number one in their division, will begin their race on Saturday November 20th at 9:05 AM.  The Girls team, who has also seen much success this season, will run at 10:05 am.  Both these races will be held at Mt SAC in Walnut. 

 

The Girls Volleyball team will also compete for a CIF Championship this Saturday.  They went undefeated in league and hope to beat the Academy league third place finisher, Brethren Christian, for the third time this season.  The match will begin at 1:00 pm at Cypress College.

 

 

Come support your Tartans!  Expect something special to happen. 

11/19/2010 11:10 AMAll SportsYesUpper
Fall CIF Playoffs in Full SwingUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Five of the fall athletic teams are still competing in CIF playoffs; Football, Boys Cross-Country, Girls Cross-Country, Tennis and Girls Volleyball.

 

Football: After winning league for the eighth year in a row, the Football team begins CIF playoffs this

Friday, November 19th at home, against Campbell Hall at 7:00 pm.  The team is seeded fourth overall in the East Valley Division. 

 

Cross-Country: Both the Boys and Girls Cross-Country teams, who have been dominating all season, competed in the CIF-Prelims where they qualified for  CIF Finals on Saturday November 20th at Mt SAC.  The Boys’ team will race at 9:05 am and are led by Billy Gaudreau and Brandon Price.  The Girls’ team will race at 10:05 am and are led by Emily Venable and McCaully Patch and are hopeful to have Sara Paddon return from injury. 

 

Tennis: The Back to Back CIF Champions have earned a spot in the Quarterfinals after beating MLK and Hart High School.  They are seeded fourth in Division 3A and will play Long Beach Wilson at home on Tuesday November 16th at 2:00 pm.  The team has three strong singles players Zoe Oedekerk, Molly Brooks and Tiffany Cheng.  The doubles team, Hannah Hess and Madison Gottlieb, have been battling together for three years and are tough to stop. 

 

Volleyball:  The team captured their thirteenth Academy League title in fourteen years.   They are ranked number one in Division 4AA.  After defeating St. Paul in 5 games, the girls are in the CIF Semi-finals Tuesday November 16th at home at 7:00 pm against Ocean View High School

 

Support the Tartans – Come see a game!

 

11/19/2010 11:09 AMGirls Varsity VolleyballYesUpper
Middle School Volleyball Completes Perfect SeasonUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Very few athletes get to experience perfection, but what is nearly impossible for the individual athlete becomes possible when part of a team. The Mountain ‘A’ Volleyball team finished their season with a win in the Parochial Athletic League Championship match, and ended what is and what will continue to be a perfect season. Throughout league and tournament play the team not only won every match, but also every game. Breezing through the first two rounds of playoffs, the Tartans faced a competitive and skilled opponent in St. Hedwig’s in the semifinals. While the beginning of both games was close, the team was able to win in two straight, 25-20 and 25-15. In the finals, the team played St. Simon and Jude, the same team they had beaten earlier in the year in the finals of the Rosary Tournament. Having a renewed focus and energy, the Tartans left no doubt for anyone that they were the best team. From the first play it was evident that no team was a match for the Tartans, not in the finals or any other match this season. Finishing off their perfect season, the Tartans won in straight sets, 25-13, 25-17. The win in the finals was the 18th straight match victory and brought the total of consecutive games won to 51. Over the past two years the Tartans have amassed a match record of 32-0, which includes one tournament victory, two league championships, and two Parochial Athletic League Championships. Team members include 7th graders: Maxine Burke, Bryana Corlett, McKenna Hines, and Olivia Miller and 8th graders: Gabby Axelson, Katie Grayden, Hayley Hodson, Francie Holte, Lyndsay Jacobs, Peighton McRobie, Emily Miller, and Jenny Morton.

11/17/2010 11:00 AMMS Girls VolleyballYesMiddle
LS/US Cheer Clinic a Kick!Use SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

On Friday, November 5th, the SMES Varsity Cheerleaders held a Wee Tartan Cheer Clinic where they taught 27 lower school students how to jump, cheer and dance.  During the two hour clinic students from grades 1 through 5 were paired up with a Varsity Cheerleader who was their buddy for the day.  Senior Cheer Captain Ashtin Evans said, "We had so much fun teaching the lower school students.  I thought it was a great way to encourage school spirit and form camaraderie between upper school and lower school students."  The Wee Tartan Cheerleaders learned jumps, kicks, cheers, chants and a halftime dance which they performed at the varsity football game that evening.  Congratulations to the Varsity Cheerleaders and the Wee Tartan Cheerleaders on a successful clinic and halftime performance!

11/11/2010 12:58 PMCheerleadingYesUpper
Equestrian Team has Great WeekendUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
SMES had a great weekend at IEL! Two of our team members took home blue ribbons, Mary Raymund (Sophomore) took home the blue for Western Limit Pleasure on Saturday and Madison Golledge (Grade 6) for the Freshman Working Hunters on Saturday as well. On top of these successes, Emily Morton (Sophomore) consistently received top ribbons throughout the weekend in the JV Jumpers.  Ashleigh Magnus (Junior) and Caroline Krutcik (Grade 5) both had their IEL debuts this weekend and each came home with a handful of ribbons to represent their first IEL competitions-- big achievement! Madison Golledge took Saturday by storm and ended up Champion with the most individual points in the Freshman division for the day! Congratulations to all the girls and we look forward to December.

11/9/2010 2:15 PMEquestrianYesUpper
MS Volleyball Wins TournamentUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Mountain ‘A’ team continued their dominance on Saturday, winning the 1st Annual Rosary Tourney in Fullerton. The tournament was comprised of 16 teams from all over the Orange County area.

In pool play, the Tartans quickly breezed through their competition, going undefeated with a 6-0 record. In the first round of playoffs the team defeated St. Norbert’s 25- 7 . In the semifinals the Tartans were matched against St. Joseph’s of Long Beach, a team they easily dispatched during pool play. With a renewed energy and some great defensive plays, St. Joseph’s kept the Tartans on their heels for most of the game, always keeping the game close. Relying heavily on 8th graders Hayley Hodson and Peighton McRobie, fellow 8th grader Francie Holte kept feeding them the ball to finish off the game by a score of 25-21.

In the finals, the Tartans were matched up against St. Simon and Jude, the same team they had faced last year in the semifinals of the PAL playoffs. This time it was St. Margaret’s that had a renewed energy as they began the finals match. With strong serving by Lindsay Jacobs and solid passing by Emily Miller to start the game, the Tartans played some of their best volleyball of the year and took game one of the match by a score of 25-8. Not wanting to let up, the team continued their great play in the second game with great passing by Maxine Burke and some great hits by McKenna Hines. Francie also continued with her great setting, getting the ball to Peighton and Hayley, often times with the two of them putting the ball away from the back row.

The tournament win puts the team’s current record at 16-0 on the year in match play, and 40-0 in sets (games). 7th grade team members are Maxine Burke, Bryana Corlett, McKenna Hines, and Olivia Miller. 8th grade team members are Gabby Axelson, Katie Grayden, Hayley Hodson, Francie Holte, Lyndsay Jacobs, Peighton McRobie, Emily Miller, and Jenny Morton.

Congratulations to all the girls on a great tournament and a great season thus far!

10/26/2010 1:25 PMMS Girls VolleyballYesMiddle
Cross-Country Wins OC ChampionshipsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

It was a bit of a coming out party for both the St. Margaret’s girls and boys varsity cross country teams at the Orange County Championships on Saturday. Despite missing two of their top five runners the girls team managed to run to a fourth place finish in the division three race. Led by sophomore, Emily Venable , who placed fifth overall in a time of 19:04, the Tartans pulled together as a team to compete well against many larger schools. Freshmen, Tessa Hurr and Yamili Burgos ran the races of their season while sophomore, Daniella Salazar made a strong move at the halfway mark to finish within seconds of her teammates. Freshman, Julianna Coleman ran a gutsy race to round out the top five for the Tartans. Once the team is back to full strength they should make some noise at the upcoming CIF finals.

 

On the boys side, junior Billy Gaudreau destroyed the field by pulling away at the mile mark and was never challenged, to win the division three race in a time of 15:14. The boys were also missing a key member of the top five due to illness but the rest of the team picked up their teammate by going on to win the championship in division three by a single point over Santiago. Sophomore, Brandon Price ran a personal best, 15:48 to finish fourth overall. The finish of the day was turned in by freshman, Hunter Edington who dug deep to outkick an opponent to secure the Tartans one point victory. Edington’s time of 16:06 put him as the top freshman in Orange County in all divisions. With three runners in the top ten it was then up to juniors Ryan Gooding and Jacob Garrett to finish the job. They did just that despite Garrett feeling under the weather. Gooding posted one of his best times of the year while Garrett ran a smart, gutsy race to help secure the Tartans first ever Orange County Championship.

 

Click here for the Orange County Register article.

10/20/2010 4:00 PMCross CountryYesUpper
SMES Varsity Golf Team Participates in OC Race for the CureUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

St. Margaret’s varsity golf team participated in the Susan G. Komen Orange County Race for the Cure this past Sunday, September 26 at Fashion Island in Newport Beach. The nine golfers walked in the race to support breast cancer awareness.

Students who participated in the walk included: Seniors Blakely Collier, Andrea Ellis and Captain Michelle Lancaster; Juniors Gabrielle Carpenter, Jennifer Tedori and Caroline Walters; Sophomores Olivia Dolan, Alexandra Frost and Narumi Takagi; and Coach Rocky Parker and his wife Cate. Pre-race snacks and refreshments were served by the Lancaster family. The team had pink t-shirts made to support breast cancer awareness. The shirts read “Tartans Who Care” on the front, and “Golfers Who Do” on the back. The Collier family sponsored the t-shirts for the team.

9/30/2010 2:52 PMGirls Varsity GolfYesUpper
Tartan Football player named OCVarsity Defensive Star of the WeekUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
Senior defensive back James Murayama has been named the OCVarsity Defensive Star of the Week for his performance against Horizon of San Diego last week.
 
Murayama collected three interceptions, with the last preserving the Tartan's 30-20 win with 2:51 left to play in the game.
 
Congratulations, James!
9/21/2010 2:47 PMVarsity FootballYesUpper
Volleyball Wins TournamentUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Tartan Girls Volleyball team started their season with a bang.  For the second year in a row, they won the Pasadena Poly Invitational.  After losing their two senior outside hitters and not having played a regular season match, the Tartans entered the tournament not knowing what to expect.  However, they started off the tournament with a competitive match against Windward of Los Angeles, splitting the pool play match 25-23, 19-25.  This was the only loss for the Tartans for the day.  In pool play, they beat Western Christian 25-14, 25-21 and Flintridge Prep 25-12, 25-20.  In the semi-finals outside hitter, Gigi Morally, a sophomore, had her breakout match and recorded 10 kills in just two games. The Tartans beat the host school 25-21, 25-23.  The Championships brought the first two teams together again to see who could win in the three game match.  Middle blocker, Ali Robinson a junior, led all hitters with 10 kills but also added 2 aces and 2 blocks. Ali also made the All-Tournament team, finishing with 35 kills.  Gigi Morally also came up big with 8 kills.  The Tartans played well together and fought off a few runs by Windward to take home the crown 25-18, 25-22.  Sophomore Ashley Torok had a very consistent tournament finishing with 13 kills and 15 aces.  Senior middle blocker, Erika Page had 11 kills and 16 digs for the day, earning her All-Tournament Honors.  Ali Robinson also made the All-Tournament team, finishing with 35 kills.  The MVP award went to junior setter, Emily Moore who dished out 93 set assists, 11 digs and 8 kills and set an excellent tournament. 

 

9/13/2010 11:53 AMGirls Varsity VolleyballYesUpper
Cheerleaders Earn Top HonorsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Tartan Cheerleaders take pride in cheering for SMES athletic teams throughout the school year. After the team's successful performance at summer cheer camp they deserve a few cheers of their own. Varsity and JV cheerleaders attended the National Cheer Association's camp from July 13-16 at the University of California San Diego, with twenty other teams from across California. The four days at camp were spent learning chants, cheers and dances and improving stunting skills. Daily evaluations by the NCA staff gave cheerleaders helpful suggestions for improvement.


The final day of camp consisted of competitions, evaluations and awards. Cheer Coach Jamie McCann is proud to announce the SMES cheerleaders left the awards ceremony with more accolades than any other team at camp, including the Top Team Award, the S.P.O.T. Award for safety, the Spirit Stick and bids to compete in the NCA National Competition for both the Varsity and JV squads. Senior Varsity Captain Ashtin Evans was presented with the Individual Leadership Award for her excellent contributions during captains meetings and strong leadership of her team.


Eleven Tartan Cheerleaders were nominated by the NCA Staff for the All American Cheerleading Team; junior Ashley Davis and sophomore Macey Davis were awarded spots on the team. Ashley Davis was honored with the Top All American Cheerleader Award for scoring the most points of all nominated cheerleaders. More important than any award the squad received from the camp staff who evaluated them, The Tartan Cheerleaders left camp with a new repertoire of cheers, chants and dances and became a closer team.

8/31/2010 8:00 AMCheerleadingYesUpper
Great Year!Use SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The 2009-2010 school year was another outstanding year for Tartan Athletics.  The school won five CIF Championships; the most in school history.  During the fall season, the football team won their fourth consecutive championship and the Girls Tennis team earned their second consecutive CIF Championship.  The Track and Field program earned two individual championships: Billy Gaudreau won the 1600 M race and Chelsie Churchill won the Triple Jump.

 

Twelve students were named CIF State Scholar Athletes.  These student-athletes had a cumulative GPA of 3.7 or higher and earned All-CIF distinction, at least once, during their high school career.  The following seniors were recognized: Christopher Adams, Natasha Afshar, Spencer Corwin, William Findiesen, Christina Hart, Savannah Holte, Andrew Lind, Hayley Miller, Woody Quinn, Will Travis, Alfredo Valencia and Kevin Wang

7/30/2010 11:23 AMAll SportsYesUpper
Individual Athletes HonoredUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Another special award, that a St. Margaret’s athlete earned this year, is the Academy League Athlete of the Year.  At the end of each year, the Academy League Athletic Directors vote on the best athlete who represents the entire league.  Fernando Almejo who played Football, Soccer and Lacrosse this year was named the Academy League Male Athlete of the Year.  Almejo became a standout receiver for the Tartan Football team earning All-League honors as well as All-CIF honors and was an integral part in the CIF Championship win.  He played midfield for the soccer team where he also earned All-League and All-CIF honors.  Almejo plans to play soccer when he attends the University of La Verne in the Fall. 

 

The CIF Southern Section honors student-athletes from participating schools who earned grade point average of 3.5 or above, during their 10th, 11th and 12th grade years.   They must also be involved in both athletic and extra-curricular activities.  This academic award is the highest individual award bestowed upon students from the CIF Southern Section.  The Female Scholar Athlete of the Year is Chrissie Massrey and the Male Scholar Athlete of the Year is Justin Cheng.

7/2/2010 11:34 AMAll SportsYesUpper
John Balak and Athlete of the Year AwardsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The 2009-2010 school year was another outstanding year for Tartan Athletics.  The school won five CIF Championships; the most in school history.  During the fall season, the football team won their fourth consecutive championship and the Girls Tennis team earned their second consecutive CIF Championship.  The Track and Field program earned two individual championships: Billy Gaudreau won the 1600 M race and Chelsie Churchill won the Triple Jump.

 

Each year the Upper School coaching staff nominates and votes for the Athletes of the Year and the John Balak Award recipients.  Below is an excerpt from the Spring Sports Awards Banquet.

 

“The Athlete of the Year is awarded to the student who has made significant contributions to sports at St. Margaret’s and who has demonstrated outstanding athletic ability combined with a good attitude, sportsmanship, leadership, versatility, school spirit, a strong work ethic, and superior effort.”

 

This year’s Male Athlete of the Year Award goes to a young man who is a fighter and expects nothing less than the best from himself.  Because of his competitive nature, any coach would want him on their team.  He is hard working and at game time, no one can stop him from giving his best.   As a football player, he was named Academy League Offensive Player of the Year.  He was also named CIF Offensive Player of the Year.  He led the league with 31 touchdowns. He ran for 1,720 yards which is an average of 122 yards per game.   He was also named to the CIF All State Football Team. 

 

As a wrestler, he won all but two of the matches that he competed in.  He is a natural technician and a fearless competitor.  He has an amazing ability to take a technique, adapt it and then improve it.

 

As a Lacrosse player, he was named First Team All-Trinity League as an attack man.  He was a captain in every sense of the word – leading by example and making the players around him better.  He scored 27 goals this year and led the team in assists. As in Football, he could take a hit harder than anyone and bounce back as if nothing happened.  Coach Manning said he is like an annoying BEE with a strong stinger.

 

The St. Margaret’s Male Athlete of the Year is Johnny Murayama.

 

 

 The Female Athlete of the Year could be described very similarly.     She is a fierce competitor, usually referred to as a “little fireball”.  This athlete is always working hard and has a contagious ability to increase the level of intensity in any person she comes into contact with.  She makes the people around her better.  As a two time CIF Champion, she has only lost one contest in 3 straight years.  She has been the Academy League MVP during her sophomore, junior and once senior years.  She has a great work ethic and leads by example.  As Captain, she encourages her teammates and is like an assistant to her coach.  Her knowledge of the game is off the charts and her coach often will seek strategic advice from her.  She does whatever it takes to win – she HATES to lose.

 

This year she decided to try Track and Field for the first time.  She competed in the 100, 200, Triple jump and 4 x 100 relay.  In the 100 she qualified for league finals.   In the Triple Jump, she finished in the top 3 or 4 in many of the meets, and in the 4 x 10 she was part of the league championship team.  The 4 X100 relay had three returning athletes.  She worked very hard and earned the first leg on that team.  She had never used starting blocks.   She had to learn how to run the curve and how to make a clean handoff.        In spite of all this, they still earned league champs in that event.  In CIF pre-lims they PR’d the 2nd fastest time in SMES history and qualified for CIF Finals. 

 

Her coaches were impressed with her dedication and commitment to the team even though she was only a participant in the program for a few months.  However, the best part about her is that as fierce and hardworking as she is – she finishes every practice with “Thanks Coach”.

 

The St. Margaret’s Female Athlete of the Year is Hayley Miller.

 

 

 “The John Balak Award was first awarded in 1994 in commemoration of one of the most valued members of the St. Margaret's community.  An ardent supporter of the athletic programs, John Balak's friendly smile and encouraging words will forever be etched in the minds of the athletes who were fortunate enough to know him.  The recipient of this award is the athlete who the coaches, of St. Margaret's, feel best emulates the life and perspective of this fine man.

 

The John Balak Award winner is unselfish, dedicated to their sport and school, and models a work ethic that every coach desires from his or her athletes.

 

The student is an athlete who demonstrates respect for his/her teammates, coaches, and the opposing team.  The individual is fiercely competitive but makes the distinction between hatred and competition.

 

The most important trait the John Balak Award winner emulates is integrity.  You can count on this person to give his/her best, take responsibility for their performance, and praise their teammates for a win.”

 

The Male John Balak Award recipient is Jacob Graham and the Female John Balak Award recipient is Ashley Bean

 

Congratulations to all the St. Margaret’s Athletes and Coaches for an outstanding year. 

 

 

6/16/2010 10:03 AMAll SportsYesUpper
6th Grade Soccer Teams Sweep Playoffs!Use SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

It was an exciting and victorious week for both of the 6th Grade St. Margaret’s Co-ed Soccer teams as each captured the Championship trophy for their respective leagues. With two teams at the 6th grade level, the league places one team in the Large School Division and the other in the Small School Division..both competing against many other skilled schools in the league. After a challenging regular season of games the Large School team entered the playoffs as the number one seed with only one loss on their record against Serra Catholic. With a first round easy win against St. Anne the team had to once again face Serra Catholic in the semi final game. The Tartans avenged their previous loss with a 1-0 victory and a birth in the championship game against St. Edwards the number two seed…and what an exciting game it was! The team fell behind 0-1 in the first half but quickly tied it up on a great goal by Dane Lind to head into halftime tied 1-1. The second half was controlled by the Tartans as they were able to keep possession of the ball for most of the 25 minutes of play along with great defense when St. Edwards was able to gain control of the ball. Holly Parker came through with a tremendous shot off a great pass from William Miyamoto to take the lead 2-1 and the championship trophy once the final whistle blew.

The Small School team had a different road through the playoffs as there were several upsets in the early rounds to set up a semi final game with St. John’s. It was a tough battle but the team pulled through with a 2-1 victory to advance against Our Lady of Fatima in the championship game. After being tied 1-1 in the finals going into halftime the team refocused and came out fighting with tenacious defense and offensive pressure. Goals by Ethan Crnic and Ryan Miller with an awesome assist by Sarah Gencarella the Tartans sealed the championship 2-1.

As both teams headed into the holiday weekend it was a satisfying walk to the car, each team holding their championship trophy  after a long and hard fought week.

Way to go Tartans!!!

6/1/2010 10:19 AMAll SportsYesMiddle
Three is the Magic NumberUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Tartan Athletic program added three CIF Championships to its collection last Saturday. The Boys Volleyball team won a second CIF title in St. Margaret’s history with a 16-25, 25-14, 25-19, 25-18 victory over Arrowhead Christian. In other CIF finals on Saturday, Sophomores Chelsie Churchill and Billy Gaudreau each won CIF titles in their individual Track and Field events.

The Tartan volleyball team, seeded # 2, reached the 2010 finals without dropping a game during the playoffs. They were led by seniors Woody Quinn, Kory Kiraly, Alex Fragapane and Kevin Wang. The team started off slowly on Saturday, but turned it on in the second game and then never looked back. Opposite player and Captain, Woody Quinn, had 26 kills, 2 blocks and 8 digs. Captain and setter, Kory Kiraly, dished out 48 assists. Outside hitter, Kevin Wang, finished the night with 12 kills and 9 digs. Senior Libero, Alex Fragapane, came alive in the second game and had 14 digs in the match.

The Tartans played in the CIF final last year, but took the runner-up trophy. Athletics Director Susie Maga said, “This is a great team of players with amazing heart. This win is especially sweet because they had to push through many injuries, work hard and stay focused to avenge last year's close loss in the final."

Mrs. Maga added, “I know the team is proud to deliver this championship to Coach Karch Kiraly. We are all very grateful for his dedication, direction and leadership to the program over the past four years.”

By winning CIF, the team earned a berth in the State Playoffs. Their first match is at home on Tuesday, May 25 at 7 p.m. against Elizabeth Learning Center representing the City Section. If the Tartans win, they will play on Thursday, May 27 against the winner of the Sante Fe Christian vs. Chadwick match.

Click here to read the Orange County Register’s article on the championship match.

Click here to view the Cox 3 coverage of the championship match.

Track and Field Individual Wins

Chelsie Churchill was the Academy League Champion in the Triple Jump (and 4 x 100 relay), but entered the CIF Finals ranked 7th in the division. Each competitor gets 4 jumps during the competition, but Chelsie only needed two. She started off strong, reaching 35’11” on her first jump. Her second jump eventually won her the crown, as she landed 36’2”. Her closest competitor landed 36’1 ½”. This was Chelsie’s personal best jump and a school record.

Billy Gaudreau, who was the Academy League Champion in the 800m, 1600m and 3200m, advanced to the CIF Finals in both the 1600m and 3200m. The 1600m earned him his first CIF Championship. This sophomore ran his personal best by 4 seconds, completing the race in 4:20.62. He ran an incredible race, winning on the last stretch of the track.

Three CIF Championships in a day. Great job to all Tartan athletes!

5/27/2010 12:39 AMAll SportsYesUpper
Quinn Commits to PepperdineUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Senior Woody Quinn recently committed to playing volleyball at Pepperdine University. He is the first boys’ volleyball player to be actively recruited by and commit to a division 1 men’s volleyball program (also recruited by Ohio State and UC San Diego). Quinn has been one of the main weapons the past three years for the Tartan offense and was also recently recognized by OCvarsity.com as Athlete of the Week (OCVarsity Article ). Quinn will join one of the top volleyball programs in the nation that has won 5 NCAA Championships and is coached by one of the top coaches in the game, Marv Dunphy

 

Kiraly recognized as one of the county’s top setters!

In other volleyball news, senior Kory Kiraly was one of ten players recognized as a top setter in Orange County. The recognition is a huge accomplishment as the players considered were from the schools in all divisions in Orange County. The full article can be found at: OCVarsity Article

Playoffs begin for Volleyball

The Tartan volleyball team won their first round match against Capo Valley Christian.  They play again Thursday, May 13 @ 5pm at home versus Ontario Christian. The Tartans look to improve on their overall record of 19-4 and extend their undefeated league season. Currently the team is ranked #2 in CIF. Come cheer on the Tartans as they make a run for a CIF title!!

 

5/13/2010 3:16 PMBoys Varsity VolleyballYesUpper
Swimmers Head to CIF Use SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

SMES Swimming and Diving teams head into the CIF Championship this week. Junior Cameron Price and Sophomore Mary Ahearn both set Academy League records at the Academy League Finals last week. Cameron's time of 4:49.99 in the 500 Freestyle and Ahearn's time of 2:06.34 in the 200 Freestyle were 2 of 4 records set at the meet. SMES has set more records than any other team in the league, currently holding 9 out of 22 records!

SMES top seeds for CIF competition this week include current CIF defending champion Junior Jessica Warren, seeded second in 1-Meter Diving. Senior Carina Prynn, a three-time Academy League Champion in the 100 Breaststroke, and Freshman Ashley Torok, are seeded 16th and 32nd respectively in the 100 Breaststroke. Ahearn will compete in both the 100 and 200 Freestyle events, as well as the Girl's 400 Freestyle Relay with Prynn, Torok and Senior Kasey Jong. In the boys' competition, Price is seeded 5th in in the 200 IM and 12th in the 100 Breaststroke.

In all, five SMES swimmers and one diver will compete this week. We wish them luck!

5/10/2010 10:44 AMSwimming&DivingYesUpper
Two Tartan Lacrosse Players Tabbed as Athletes of the WeekUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
Senior Boys Goalkeeper Jeff Askin and Junior Girls Midfielder Emily Boone have been named OCVarsity Athletes of the Week in Boys Lacrosse and Girls Lacrosse, respectively.
 
Emily had quite a two-week run for the team, which has been ranked in the top 10 in the county most of the season.
 
Boone scored 38 points in six games. Two weeks ago, she scored 10 goals in a win over Santa Margarita. This past week, she scored eight goals against Mater Dei, five goals in another match against Santa Margarita and one goal vs. Los Alamitos.
 
She had 61 goals on the season with three assists, 41 groundballs and 27 draw controls.

Read More about Emily Boone.

Jeff Askin has had an outstanding season for the Tartans, the No. 3-ranked Boy's team in Orange County.
 
He was one of the key reasons why St. Margaret’s captured the Trinity League title outright with a 10-0 record, according to Coach Gerry Manning.
 
Askin also has two shutouts for St. Margaret’s. The Tartans (14-2) open the U.S. Lacrosse South Division I playoffs on Thursday.

Read More about Jeff Askin.
 
5/4/2010 9:48 AMAll SportsYesUpper
Tartan VB three-peats at Chadwick Tourney!!!Use SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The varsity volleyball team proved again this past weekend why they are one of the top teams in the division, winning the Chadwick Tourney for the third straight year! Despite some close games, the team went undefeated on the day, winning all 8 of their games. The closest competition was against #5 ranked Vistamar from El Segundo, but the Tartans proved why they are the #2 ranked team in the division by defeating Vistamar twice in pool play and then again in the finals in a thrilling 30-28 victory. Senior opposite Woody Quinn was named Tourney MVP and senior setter Kory Kiraly was named to the All-Tournament team. The team is now 12-3 overall and 4-0 in league play. Come support the team next week as they have home matches on Tuesday and Friday and play at JSerra on Saturday, May 1st.

4/27/2010 10:01 AMBoys Varsity VolleyballYesUpper
Boys Lacrosse Remains Undefeated in Trinity LeagueUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Tartans scored 5 goals in the second half to defeat the Santa Margarita Eagles 7-6 Friday night in front of a sizable crowd at Mission Viejo HS.

Junior attackman Mitchell Pok had  2 goals including what turned out to be the game winner as the Tartans battled back from a 3 goal deficit at half time.  The late rally started at the end of the third quarter with a goal from Sophomore midfielder Chris Bauer, and continued with goals from Junior James Murayama and Senior Jacob Graham.

The Eagles were able to regain the lead midway through the fourth quarter but were unable to hold on as a man-down situation led to a flurry of shots that hit the post before Sophomore Matthew Duenes found a loose ball in front of Santa Margarita’s goal. Duenes deftly switched hands and lobbed a pass across the goal mouth to Pok who buried it to give the Tartans a one-goal lead.

The Tartan defense led by Senior goaltender Jeff Askin, kept the eagles at bay for the next three minutes until a late penalty forced Askin out of the game and the Tartans into a man-down situation.

In lacrosse, personal fouls committed by goaltenders result in a timeserving penalty to be served by said goaltender.  So, with thirty-six seconds remaining in the game, the Tartans called upon the back up goalkeeper: Freshman Brandon Suchand.

Suchand preserved the win by making a phenomenal save off of a twenty-yard shot by the Eagles and quickly sent the ball downfield as time expired.

With the win the Tartans improve to 10-2 overall and 7-0 in Trinity League play.

All of the action from Friday night is featured as COX 3’s televised “Game of the Week” which can be seen Monday April 19 at 8 p.m. and again on Thursday April 22 at 8 p.m.

4/21/2010 10:59 AMBoys Varsity LacrosseYesUpper
Swimming and Diving Having Great StartUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The SMES swimming and diving team is approaching the end of one of their best seasons in recent years. The girls team is 2-0 in League competition, and 4-3 overall. Captains Kasey Jong and Carina Prynn have led the team, winning the majority of their individual races this season. Sophomore Mary Ahearn has several CIF Consideration Times, most recently a 2:06.10 in the 200 yard freestyle. Junior diver Jessica Warren will be a top contender this year at both our League Championships as well as at CIF. Freshman Ashley Torok has led our group of newcomers this season, without whom our winning record would not be possible.

Our SMES boys team has managed a 1-2 league record, and 2-6 overall record with just 6 swimmers. Cameron Price is approaching team records in numerous events, and has achieved CIF Automatic Times in all 6 events he has swum this season. Cameron won the 100 Butterfly in 56:97 and the 100 Backstroke in 58.12 against Sage Hill this past weekend.

Come cheer on the Tartan Swimmers at 3pm this Friday, April 23rd at JSerra! SMES will face tough competition in our dual meet against Saddleback Valley Christian (SVC).

4/20/2010 10:02 AMSwimming&DivingYesUpper
Boys Lacrosse to be on TV Use SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Boys Lacrosse team will be showcased on Cox3 Sports.   The Tartans play Santa Margarita at Mission Viejo High School on Friday, April 16 at 7:30 pm.  Cox3 Sports will then televise the game on Saturday, April 17 at 1:00 pm.  This will be the first meeting of cross-town rivals Santa Margarita and the Tartans this season.  Last year these games were truly an epic battle.  Let's pack the stands and show our support for the Tartan Lacrosse team. 

4/14/2010 2:36 PMBoys Varsity LacrosseYesUpper
Alum David Mothander Signs with Harvard UniversityUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

David Mothander ’09 decided to do a post graduate year at Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire.   This proved to be a wise decision for Mothander.    As a result, he recently signed a letter of intent as a kicker for Harvard University.  Mothander was the Tartans’ starting quarterback, kicker and punter during his senior year.  He led the team to their third straight CIF Title and their first ever State Bowl Championship.  Mothander was the 2008 Academy League Kicker of the Year and the CIF Offensive Player of the Year in football.  He also played soccer for the Tartans where he was the starting goal keeper.   He was also on the baseball team where he played short stop and pitcher. David was named St. Margaret’s Outstanding Athlete of the Year in 2008. 

3/31/2010 11:37 AMAll SportsYesUpper
Volleyball Wins TournamentUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The boy’s volleyball team made the drive to San Luis Obispo more than worth it this weekend, winning the Gold Division of the 11th Annual SLO Town Tourney for the second year in a row! Despite some poor play on Friday, the Tartans won their pool and earned a berth in the Gold Division. On Saturday they faced tougher competition and rose to the challenge, defeating division II Arroyo Grande and division I California High School from San Ramon. Their strong play on Saturday morning earned them a first round bye as the number one seed heading into the playoffs. This momentum carried the team through their first two playoff games and into the finals.

Entering the finals the Tartans had to keep in mind what it took to win the tournament in 2009; an improbable comeback victory from being down 13-2 with no timeouts left was what it required in 2009. They expected the same type of battle this year but they could not have been more wrong. They started the game with a 6-1 lead, displaying the same consistent and steady play that had made them successful earlier in the day. Never looking back and never giving up the lead, the mighty Tartans defeated division I Bullard high school from Fresno by a score of 25-18, earning their second Gold Division Championship at the SLO Town Tourney. Earning All-Tournament honors were seniors Kevin Wang and Woody Quinn. Senior Kory Kiraly was named tournament MVP.

Team members include sophomores Oliver DeCarion and Nick Adams, juniors Arya Amirhekmat, Zach Stoddard, and Mike Jones, and seniors Alex Fragapane, Kevin Wang, Kory Kiraly, and Woody Quinn.

3/15/2010 9:25 AMBoys Varsity VolleyballYesUpper
Tartans Advance to the Semifinals for the Third Consecutive SeasonUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Girls’ Varsity Soccer Team advances to the CIF-SS Girls’ Division 6 Semifinals after a thrilling double overtime, sudden death victory over hosts Santa Paula before a raucous, partisan crowd. The Tartans dominated the action for most of the match producing an abundance of shots and forcing Santa Paula goalkeeper Glory Cruz into making 23 saves. While forwards Chelsie Churchill and Amy Gutierrez were imposing their will on the Cardinal back four, Olivia Collins and Natalie Barbaresi were controlling the Santa Paula forwards and McKenna Marmelstein dominated the aerial duels in the midfield. However, the Cardinals were up to every challenge from the visiting team as they played a stifling physical defense that seemed to throw the Tartans off their rhythm and slowed down their attack.

In the second half, both teams turned up the heat and the crowd noise also ramped up as the home throng made their presence felt which seemed to rattle the young Tartans. Sophomore Katie Donahue, the teams’ leading scorer who was jostled, harassed and battered for most of the match, was shown a yellow card for aggressively defending herself. This would actually turn out to be a blessing in disguise for the Tartans.

With Donahue on the bench, the Tartans battled to regain their lost momentum and took the initiative. Churchill continued to get behind her defenders while Gutierrez and freshmen Stefanie Brunswick and Allie Frost took turns pressuring the Cardinal defense. With just a few minutes remaining in regulation, Gutierrez hit a terrific shot to the far post that hit the crossbar and Frost was unable to put in the rebound.

The Tartans also had some very tense moments as well in the final ten minutes. As the Cardinals pressed forward, the Tartans committed a silly foul at the top of the penalty area and the hosts were awarded a dangerous free kick. Fortunately, their attempt sputtered harmlessly over the crossbar. In the final minute of play, GK Erika Page chased down an errant Cardinal shot only to have her momentum carry her out of the penalty box giving Santa Paula a free kick less than 25 yards from the Tartan goal. After a miss wide, mercifully, the final whistle blew and put both teams into the overtime period.

CIF-SS playoffs utilize two ten-minute, sudden death overtime periods and then penalty kicks in order to settle tie games after regulation. During the first overtime, the Tartans put the Cardinals under tremendous pressure and did not allow them to mount any sort of attack. Donahue, who came back into the match with two minutes remaining in the game after sitting out for almost thirty minutes after her yellow card, seemed to have fresh legs as she chased down and ran past the hapless Cardinal defense. The score remained 0-0 after the 1st overtime.

In the second overtime, Allie Frost was to be brought on as a substitute for the hard working Gutierrez. Coach Johnny Marmelstein looked Frost in the eyes just before she entered the game and said, “One act of bravery and courage will win this game for us, Allie!” Those words would be prophetic. With less than six minutes remaining in the second overtime, the renewed Donahue easily beat her defender and ran towards to end line before sending an amazing cross to a streaking Allie Frost who clinically and calmly finished her opportunity and sent the Tartan faithful into pandemonium and the team to the semifinals!

Santa Paula finishes their season at 14-5-4 while St. Margaret’s improves to 21-5-1. Sophomore forward Chelsie Churchill earned the game ball for her unselfish play and tremendous work ethic! The Tartans advance to the CIF-SS Semifinals next Tuesday in Lancaster against the three-time defending CIF Champions, Desert Christian. Go Tartans!

2/27/2010 6:58 AMAll SportsYesUpper
Soccer Teams Advance in PlayoffsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Boys Soccer team advanced to the second round of CIF Playoffs by beating CAMS 5-1.     The five goals were scored by Fernando Almejo, David Field, Jon Gencarella, Cole Gennrich and Brian Vail were the players that scored.  The team plays Tuesday February 23 at home at 3:00 pm against La Sierra Academy.

 

The Girls Soccer team advanced to the second round by beating Riverside Christian.  Although the team did not play their best they stilled managed to win 3-0.  Goalie Erika Page had seven saves and recorded the seventeenth shutout of the season.  The Girls will play Schurr High School on Wednesday February 24 at home at 3:00 pm.

 

Go Tartans  

2/23/2010 12:01 PMAll SportsYesUpper
Winter Teams Make PlayoffsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Girls Basketball and Girls Soccer teams finished league undefeated.   They earned fifth and fourth seeds respectively in the CIF playoffs.  The Girls Basketball team (20-2 overall) have a bye in the first round of playoffs.   The girls will play the winner of Saddleback Valley Christian and New Roads at home on Saturday Feb. 20th at 7:00pm.  The Girls Soccer team (18-4-1 overall) will play the winner of Wednesday’s wild card game between Loma Linda Academy and Riverside Christian on Friday Feb. 19 at 3:00 pm at home.

The Boys Basketball and Boys Soccer teams also made it to the playoffs. The basketball team tied for third an earned an at-large berth to the playoffs.  They play Wednesday Feb. 17 at Silver Valley HS at 7:00 pm.  If they win they will play on Friday Feb. 19 at 7:00 pm at home.  The Boys Soccer team finished second in league and will play CAMS on Thursday Feb. 18 at 3:00 pm at home. 

 

We hope to see you all out there supporting the Tartans during the playoffs. 

 

2/18/2010 12:42 PMAll SportsYesUpper
St. Margaret’s Announces New Head Football Coach Rod BaltauUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

St. Margaret’s Episcopal School today announced the appointment of Assistant Head Football Coach Rod Baltau to Head Football Coach. Coach Baltau brings extensive high school football experience both as a coach and player, and has coached at St. Margaret’s since 2007.

In a team meeting this afternoon, Director of Athletics Susie Maga announced the news to the team players and coaching staff who erupted into spontaneous cheers, table pounding and applause for their new coach.

Coach Baltau addressed his team for the first time as Head Coach and said, “Staying at St. Margaret’s and accepting this position was an easy decision for me. I don’t want to be anywhere else. This was my first choice; my only choice.” Several team members responded by shouting, “We love you.” Coach Baltau answered, “I love you guys, too.”

Coach Baltau has been an important factor in the Tartans unprecedented success in the last few years that includes four back-to-back CIF Championships (2006, 2007, 2008, 2009), a 2008 CIF State Championship and the longest winning streak in Orange County history, 44-0 (2006-2009). He has served as offensive line coach, defensive end coach, wide receiver coach and quarterback coach in his tenure with the Tartans. Previously, he was the quarterback coach for Canyon High School in Canyon Country, Calif., working with Coach Harry Welch, when the team won the CIF Southern Section title and the CIF Division I State Championship in 2006. Baltau came to St. Margaret’s from Canyon with Coach Welch in 2007.

“We are thrilled to welcome Rod in this new role at St. Margaret’s. He’s an experienced coach with vast knowledge of the game and proven success,” said Maga. “He will maintain stability and continuity within the program. He is enthusiastic about the position, knows our student-athletes well and has earned their respect.

“We share a deep commitment to continue the achievement and reputation that this program has worked so hard to build. He cares not only about the team’s success on the field, but as much about who these young men are off the field. That outlook is extremely important to us as well.”

Headmaster Marcus D. Hurlbut said, “Of paramount importance to us is that Rod understands and embraces the role and philosophy of the Athletic Program at St. Margaret’s. Football is a significant part of our national culture and a rallying point in the life of any school community, ours included. Its core role at St. Margaret’s, however, is instilling in these young men a solid foundation of integrity, sportsmanship, teamwork, achievement and mutual respect as we work to prepare them for healthy and productive lives of learning, leadership and service in the 21st century.”

Football has been an important part of Baltau’s life beginning in high school and through college. He played quarterback on the 46-game winning streak team at Canyon High School in the 1980s and went on to earn a full football scholarship to the University of Texas, El Paso.

“I have never felt so much a part of a community as I do here at St. Margaret’s. I have met so many good people and feel great support from everyone here,” Coach Baltau said after the announcement. “I believe in St. Margaret’s and our shared mission, and I believe in what athletics and football teach a young person about life—there are many lessons to be learned on an athletic field. We are focused on our players being strong students, responsible and contributing citizens and good people, first.”

Looking forward, Coach Baltau said you can expect more of the same from the Tartans. “We’re going to continue the program with not much change. There are so many great things already in place. We plan to continue to out work, out hustle and out prepare. The wins will take care of themselves.”

Coach Baltau takes over the head job from Harry Welch who coached the Tartans from 2007-2009, announcing last week that he will join Santa Margarita High School as Head Football Coach. Baltau said of his predecessor, “I want to thank Harry Welch for bringing me to St. Margaret’s. I would not be here if it weren’t for him. I owe him much gratitude and I wish him all the best at Santa Margarita.”

Prior to his coaching career, Baltau spent many years in the aviation industry working with commercial jet aircraft engines holding various supervisory and managerial positions. He is a California native and lives in San Juan Capistrano, Calif.

1/25/2010 3:10 PMVarsity FootballYesUpper
Announcement From St. Margaret's about Coach WelchUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

This morning Coach Harry Welch informed us of his intent to leave his position as Head Football Coach at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School, and we understand from reports that he has accepted a similar position with Santa Margarita Catholic High School.

 

We are saddened by this news as it was our every hope that Harry would remain at St. Margaret’s as our Head Football Coach, a desire we made very clear to him. We do, however, understand that his incredible success and superb coaching talents make him an extremely desirable candidate for many schools, and we respect Harry’s decision to move on.

 

We cannot underscore enough the many valuable contributions Harry has made to our students, our football program, and our entire school community as Head Football Coach since 2007. He leaves a lasting legacy at St. Margaret’s; we are forever grateful and we wish Harry the very best.

 

While a chapter is ending here, we know that Harry will continue his impressive record of success at Santa Margarita. We congratulate them, and we’re happy for their community and for what Harry will bring to an already stellar football program.

1/21/2010 2:31 PMAll SportsYesUpper
Girls’ Basketball Captures Liberty Christian Tournament ChampionshipUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

After winning their home opener against Fairmont Prep, the Girls’ Varsity Basketball team began the Liberty Christian Tournament hoping to win it for the second straight year. The team was not tested much in their first and second round games against Lennox Academy and Woodland Christian but it was a great opportunity for all the girls to get needed game experience, especially the three freshman and three sophomores on the team. Arreanna Marko started her varsity career with an outstanding tournament grabbing 16 rebounds in the first two games while also playing aggressive defense.  Esmeralda Chaidez stepped into her starting role and came up strong with 15 rebounds in the first game and coming up with several key plays in the championship game.

Going into the final game against Western Christian the team knew their opponent would be tougher than their previous two and it was a rematch of the championship game last year. It was a tough battle throughout the first half as Western came out hot from the outside hitting four three pointers.  The Tartans held on and went into the half leading due to the great first half play by Kayla Moritzky. She matched Westerns outside shooting shot for shot, scoring 17 first half points.  To start the second half the girls came out blazing as Jenny Tedori scored 8 third quarter points matched by the 8 scored by Claire Hosinski. Bernie Luna was outstanding on defense in the second half as she forced several jump balls and came up with 3 steals.  

As the Tartans continued to push the ball it also pushed the lead to 20 by the end of the third quarter and went on to a 62-34 victory. Kayla Moritzky ended the game with a team high 25 points, 8 assists and 8 steals earning the Most Valuable Player award for the tournament. Claire Hosinski was awarded All Tournament honors as she finished the game with 14 points, 15 rebounds and 6 blocks. It was an excellent team effort for the entire tournament as the team now moves on to non- league opponents; Laguna Beach, Saddleback Valley Christian and Godinez in the upcoming week.

12/14/2009 9:03 AMGirls Varsity BasketballNoUpper
Tartan Football Wins 4 Straight CIF Championships!Use SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
For St. Margaret’s Tartans Football, new records are something that seem destined. In a hard-fought battle plagued by heavy rain and muddy conditions, the Tartans Football Team prevailed to win its fourth straight CIF Championship against Ontario Christian High School on the Knights’ field in Ontario. With the Tartans win tonight, the Tartans set a new record as the first football team in Orange County history to win four straight CIF Championships, and join only two other teams who have won four straight in all of California (CIF)–Temple City, 1969-1973, and St. Bonaventure, 1999-2002. The Tartans already hold the record for the longest winning streak in the history of Orange County high school football, 44-0, 2006-2009.
 
The Tartans defeated the Knights 12-6 in a dramatic East Valley Division final in front of packed stands of the Tartans’ faithful. While the Tartans never trailed at any point in the game, the rain and rough field conditions appeared to be a significant factor for both teams. At the half, the Tartans went into the locker room with a 6-0 lead. In the second half, however, the Knights stopped the Tartans first drive and answered with a touchdown of their own. After a blocked extra point the game was tied, 6-6. The Tartans answered back with another touchdown drive to bring the game to 12-6. A series of slippery turnovers held both teams in the final quarter until the Tartans drove inside the Knights’ 10 with less than a minute to play. As the final seconds ticked off the clock, the Tartans’ fans erupted as the Championship, and new record, was inevitable.
 
In celebration of their victory, Tartans players, one after another, slid across the muddy 50-yard-line on their stomachs. A thrilling sight that will be a cherished memory of tonight’s historic game.
 
To read the full game recap from The Orange County Register,click here.
 
 
Congratulations Tartans!
12/13/2009 12:17 AMVarsity FootballYesUpper
Tartans Roll Into CIF Football FinalUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The St. Margaret’s Football team has once again proved that they are a dominant force in the East Valley Division of CIF.  Even though the Tartans had to drive 7 hours and play in 22 degree temperatures, they still beat Bishop Union HS 47-6 to advance to the CIF Finals for the 4th year in a row.  The Tartans are trying to set an Orange County record for the most consecutive CIF Football Championships.  There are only two other schools who have won four in a row, Temple City from 1969-1973 and St. Bonaventure from 1999- 2002.  The Tartans will face Ontario Christian on Saturday December 12th.  Time and location are to be determined.  The team faced Ontario Christian earlier in the season winning 42-0.  The Lancers are a much different team now and have added nine players, 3 of which are starters.  The Tartans will see a more complete team than they did in October which should add to the excitement of the game.

To read the Orange County Register article, “Hot St. Margaret’s Can’t Be Cooled Off, Storms Into Finals,” click here.

The Booster Club would like to offer a Rooter Bus for the students.  Students please stop by Mrs. Fincher’s office or email her at jill.fincher@smes.org to reserve your spot.  The seats will be given on a first come first served basis.

We will begin selling tickets for the game on Wednesday, December 9th in the Athletic Office.  The cost is $9.00 for an adult and $5.00 for a student.  Cash or Check only.  You may also purchase tickets at the game.

Go Tartans!

 

12/9/2009 4:35 PMVarsity FootballYesUpper
Girls Tennis Repeats as CIF ChampsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
On Monday, St. Margaret’s Girls Tennis defeated Rio Mesa 12-6 to repeat as 2009 CIF Champions. This was a tough match that came down to the end. From the beginning, Rio Mesa of Oxnard came ready to play. There was no question as to their seat in the CIF Finals. Rio Mesa jumped to an early lead of 4-1 with five sets on the books. Tartans Freshman Zoe Oedekerk was playing the sixth set, trailing 1-4. The Tartan nerves were extremely high until Oedekerk fought back to win the set 7-5, helping her team finish round one 2-4. With the spark from Oedekerk, the reigning CIF Champions settled down and proved why they would persevere to be back to back CIF Champions. After a hard fought loss to the number-one singles player, Melanie Hess took a 4-1 lead over the number two singles player and was able to finish at 6-4. Tartan number one doubles team, Hayley Miller and Hannah Hess, won their second round match 6-1. Miller and Hess went 3-0 on the day only dropping 3 games.

Another big time performance came in the second round when doubles team Katie Fragapane and Michelle Brooks battled Rio Mesa’s number-one doubles team. They won in a tiebreak, 7-6. This started a 5-set winning streak to put the Tartans up 7-5 after two rounds. Going into the third round, the Tartans were looking for at least a tie, hoping to win by games. However, a huge upset by doubles team, Hannah Hurr and Maddie Gottlieb, and another upset from Freshman Zoe Oedekerk, fueled a lopsided victory. Hurr and Gottlieb played great tennis against Rio Mesa’s number-one doubles team and won 6-3. The Tartans were on a roll and Tiffany Chen played outstandingly to beat the number-one singles 6-2. In dramatic fashion, with all eyes on the court, Oedekerk played her third set almost flawlessly. She beat the hard-hitting number-two singles to win 6-4. The Lady Tartans rushed the court, celebrating their 12-6 win and became back to back CIF Champions!

The St. Margaret’s Girls Varsity Tennis team began the season with seven returning players from last year’s Championship team. After finishing last season with an outstanding run of 24 wins and no losses, the team was unsure how they would fare without the four key players from last year. Strong pre-season wins over Mater Dei, Trabuco Hills and Tesoro, however, gave the team confidence. At the end of September, the Tartans once again proved that they were Championship contenders by winning the Sage Hill Invitational Tournament. Strong senior leadership from Melanie Hess, Hanna Hurr and Hayley Miller kept this team striving.

Another key player in this program’s success is Coach Rick Trager. Coach Trager came to St. Margaret’s three years ago guiding both the girls and boys tennis teams through outstanding success. Coach Trager has been coaching for over 25 years having much success with the Tartans. His first year with the girls team, he reached the CIF semifinals and finished second in league. In 2008, he won league and brought home the tennis program’s second CIF title in school history. This season, Coach Trager continued his winning ways completing the year with a 26 match winning streak reaching a total of 50 in a row, a league title and another CIF Championship.

Congratulations to the Girls Tennis Team on an excellent season! To read a story about the team’s victory in The Orange County Register : http://www.ocvarsity.com/sports/margaret-18349-undefeated-victory.html

For more Tartan Tennis, come and cheer on the doubles team, Hayley Miller and Tiffany Cheng, at Seal Beach Tennis Center as they compete in the CIF Individuals on December 3.
12/1/2009 9:14 AMGirls Varsity TennisYesUpper
Girls Cross Country at CIF FinalsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
It was a history making day for the girls cross country team at the CIF Finals on Saturday. The team ran their best race of the season and brought home a runner-up plaque which is the first time in SMES history a cross country team has finished that high at the finals. Leading the charge was junior, Sarah Paddon, who had her best race of the year, finishing in 16th overall in a time of 20:03 ranking her third all-time for St. Margaret’s on the Mt. SAC course. McCaully Patch ran a strong second for the Tartans with a 20:46 clocking for the 3 mile course. Freshman, Alexis Leon was third for the Tartans in her best race of the year setting the St. Margaret’s freshman record on that course with a time of 20:57. Rounding out the top five were sophomore, Katie Keith and senior, Patricia Kharazmi. Katie stepped up big to help secure second place for the team. Patricia has been solid all year and didn’t let up for this race, running her best race of the season. Also running strong races were freshman, Kelsey Patch and Daniella Salazar. The boys and girls teams travel to Fresno for the State Championships this Saturday. It’s been a great year for both teams.
11/23/2009 5:54 PMCross CountryYesUpper
Tartans Win Championship!!Use SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
All season long the Mountain 'A' volleyball team was told they were one of the best and that they would have an opportunity to be the best. The Tartans took advantage of that opportunity on Thursday night as they defeated St. Hedwig of Los Alamitos in two straight games to win the Parochial Athletic League Championships. In order to get to the finals the team won an amazing semifinal match two days prior against a much taller team from St. Simon and Jude. In that match the team had to learn to fight and stay composed in order to win. Against St. Simon and Jude the Tartans suffered a quick first game loss by a score of 25-10. Never giving up, the team came back strong to win the second game 25-19 and then took the third and deciding game by a score of 15-11. The girls learned from the experience in the semifinals and took that momentum into Thursday night's match. Seventh grader Lindsay Jacobs started the match strong from the service line and got the Tartans out to a quick 4-0 lead. Strong defense and consistent serving helped to keep St. Hedwig from playing their normal game and gave the Tartans a 25-15 in the first game. In the second game, St. Hedwig's started off well, scoring the first few point of the game. With no hesiation, the Tartans sided out and took control of the second game. Again, great defense and aggressive play led the team to a 25-12 victory and their first P.A.L. championship. Congratulations to the Mountain 'A' team on a great win and an undefeated season of 14-0. Team members include: 7th graders Gabby Axelson, Jenny Morton, Franci Holte, Emily Miller, Lindsay Jacobs, and Peighton McRobie and 8th graders Lauren Burke, Hannah Hunsaker, Brianna Daboub, Harley Olvera, and Julianna Coleman.
11/20/2009 10:46 AMMS Girls VolleyballYesMiddle
Tennis #1, Volleyball #2Use SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Tartan tennis team has earned the number one seed in the Division IV CIF playoffs.  The playoffs begin Thursday November 12th with the Tartans playing the winner of Bellflower vs. Citrus Valley.  The match will be at home beginning at 2:00pm.  If they win that match they will play again on Saturday, November 14th.  The team won the Academy League for the second year in a row.  They have compiled an outstanding 45-0 win/loss record and are currently ranked #4 in Orange County.  The team had an amazing showing at the Academy League Individuals.  Freshman Zoe Oedekerk won the singles title while Halley Miller and Tiffany Cheng won the doubles.  Haley and Tiffany played our own doubles team of Melanie Hess and Hanna Hess.  The Tartans took home first and second in doubles.

 

The girl’s volleyball team is ranked second in the Division IV playoffs.  They defeated Aquinas in their first round match 25-13, 25-15, 25-17.  They will play again on Thursday, November 12th.  This is the Tartans 12th league title in the last 14 years.  The Tartans are led by senior captains Savannah Holte and Jordan Hopper. 

11/13/2009 8:12 AMAll SportsYesUpper
Runners Have Great RaceUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The boys and girls cross country teams competed at the Orange County Championships last Saturday and showed why both teams are two of the best in the country for Division 5. The girls team ran very well as a team despite having several runners bouncing back from illness. McCaully Patch and Patricia Kharazmi were the front runners for the Tartans while newcomers, Alexis Leon and Emily Venable ran great times in their first race of the season.  They earned themselves a coveted spot on the varsity team. The girls are currently ranked fourth in CIF SS for Division 5.

On the boys side, they put together one of their best team efforts of the year with the top five runners all finishing under 18 minutes for three miles. They also finished fifth as a team competing against teams in Divisions Three, Four and Five. By far the best ever finish in the championships for a St. Margaret’s team.  

Three of the standouts for the Tartans were freshman, Brandon Price who broke legend Ryan Downey’s freshman record on that course, with a time of 17:21. His time broke the old mark, set in 1994 by 14 seconds. Spencer Corwin also put in one of his best efforts breaking into the top ten St. Margaret’s runners all-time on that course, putting himself as the fourth fastest ever, with a time of 16:37. Finally, Billy Gaudreau, finished sixth overall in the varsity race with a time of 16:07, which not only put him in third all-time but also broke the sophomore record for a Tartan runner by one minute. Billy also put his name in the record books by earning a place on the all-county team for sophomores by finishing as the sixth fastest sophomore at the championships. That’s all divisions, one through five. Currently the boys are ranked sixth in a very strong southern section and seventh in the state for Division Five. Look for this team to make some noise at the state meet in November.

10/22/2009 2:18 PMCross CountryYesUpper
Tartan Tennis Wins Sage Hill TournamentUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Our very own 2008 Tartan CIF Tennis Championship Team has continued its winning ways by capturing the Crown at the Sage Hill Invitational Tournament.  The tournament format is a round robin that included Sage Hill, JSERRA, Bishop Gorman from Nevada, Capo Valley Christian and SMES.   Sage Hill is ranked 2nd  in CIF and Bishop Gorman is ranked #1 in the state of Nevada. 

 

The tournament win was a team effort but five of the Tartans were named to the All-Tournament Team.  They are: Tiffany Chang, Melanie Hess, Maddy Gottlieb, Hannah Hurr, and freshman Zoe Oedekerk. 

 

The Tartans are ranked 5th in Orange County and #1 in Division IV of CIF.  They are currently 36 – 0 and begin league play on Tuesday September 29th at Brethren Christian. 

9/29/2009 4:08 PMGirls Varsity TennisYesUpper
Volleyball Starts Season StrongUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Your Tartan Volleyball team started off the season with a bang.  Playing, for the first time, in the Pasadena Poly Tournament, the team took home the title.  The Tartans swept through all of their opponents not dropping a game the entire day.  They started off pool play beating Paraclete HS 25-20, 25-19.  Savannah Holte had 11 kills, Jordan Hopper had 3 aces and 5 digs while Ali Robinson added 2 kills and 3 blocks.  They beat Flintridge Prep in the second game of pool play 25-19, 25-13.  Once again the Tartans were led by Holte who had 11 kills and 2 aces.  Hopper had 5 kills and 6 digs and Middle Blocker Erika Page had a solid match with 2 aces, 3 kills and 4 digs.  To complete pool play the Tartans defeated Western Christian 25-13, 25-17.  Hopper had a tournament high 7 aces in the match and Robinson led with 6 kills and 3 blocks. 

The Tartans faced Windward of Los Angeles in the Semi-finals of the tournament.  The scores of this best out of 3 match was 25-20, 25-22.  After being down early the team started playing better with consistent play from all of the team members. Holte had 10 kills and 4 digs, Hopper had 7 kills and 4 digs, while Middle Blocker duo, Robinson and Page added 5 kills each.  The Tartans then faced tournament host Pasadena Poly in the final.  The match started off easy for the Tartans where they stretched their lead to 10 – 2, but the Panthers fought back and brought the score to 16-14 before the Tartans woke up again.  The first game ended at 25-18.  The second game the team played more consistent and won 25-18 as well.  Holte had 11 kills and 6 digs, Hopper had 7 kills and 7 digs while Robinson added 4 kills and 4 blocks.  Libero Brooke Grogan played great all day finishing with a total of 26 digs.  Setter Emily Moore played outstanding and was even an offensive threat with 8 kills on the day.  Jordan Hopper and Emily Moore were named to the All-Tournament Team while senior Savannah Holte was named Tournament MVP.

The Tartans have a big week ahead with two home games on Monday and Tuesday and then their second and final tournament on Friday and Saturday at the Orange County Championships.  We hope to see you at the games.    

9/13/2009 9:33 PMGirls Varsity VolleyballYesUpper
Great Season for Boys' VolleyballUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The boys’ volleyball season finally came to end last week. Competing in the first ever State Regional Championship, the Tartans fell to Francis Parker of San Diego in three straight games. The loss was only the fifth of the season for the Tartans who accumulated an impressive 18-5 overall record, with all but one loss coming from higher division teams. The 2009 season was the longest ever for the boys’ volleyball program and even early on they proved why they would be one of the top teams in the division. In March, the team competed in and won the SLO Town Tourney, a Division II tourney held at San Luis Obispo High.  Earning All-Tournament honors were Harley Frost, Kory Kiraly, and Woody Quinn (MVP).  Over the next two months the Tartans proved time and time again to be one of the best, storming through division play and winning 13 matches in a row, including going undefeated in league play and winning the Chadwick Tourney. At this tournament, juniors Woody Quinn and Kory Kiraly (MVP) were named to the All-Tournament team. The teams’ stellar play continued in the playoffs as the Tartans rolled through their first four opponents without dropping a game. In the CIF Finals the Tartans faced a tough Salesian team and eventually dropped the match in four games, with the first three being very close.  Congratulations to the team on an amazing season and what will hopefully becoming a winning tradition for the boys’ volleyball program. The following players earned All-League and All-CIF honors: Woody Quinn: Co-MVP of the Academy League and 1st Team All-CIF, Kory Kiraly: 1st Team All-League and 1st Team All-CIF, Harley Frost: 1st Team All-League and 1st Team All-CIF, Kristian Kiraly: 2nd Team All-League and 3rd Team All-CIF, Kevin Wang: 2nd Team All-League, and Alex Fragapane: 2nd Team All-League.

6/15/2009 10:58 AMBoys Varsity VolleyballYesUpper
Nevarez PR's at CIF FinalsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The St. Margaret's track and field season came to an end this past Saturday at the CIF Southern Section Finals at Cerritos College.  St. Margaret's lone competitor, senior, Jose Nevarez, concluded his stellar career by finishing forth in the 800m run. Jose’s time of 1:56.87 was his personal best and set the school record, which he had broken and set four times previously this season.  Jose leaves behind quite a legacy in the 800m having demolished the previous school record by more than four seconds (2:01.67 by Smith in 2004) in his high school career.  In addition, Jose has impacted the SMES record books in other events as well.  This season he sprinted to second place on the all time 400m list (51.39) and was a member of the 4 x 100 team of 2007 (44.85), which is first on the all time list.  Jose will be attending Lewis and Clark College, in Portland, Oregon where he will be competing on their cross country and track and field teams.  Jose’s leadership and competitive spirit will be sorely missed here at SMES next year.

5/27/2009 11:51 AMTrack&FieldYesUpper
Tartan Volleyball Reaches Semi-FinalsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
The boys volleyball team travelled to Montebello on Friday and won their quarterfinal match against Cantwell Sacred Heart in 3 straight games.  Starting off strong, the Tartans won the first game by a score of 25-13.  Cantwell came back strong in the second game, using the home court advantage and a very excited crowd to keep the game close.  Not to be outdone, the Tartans finished the game strong and eventually won 25-21.  Using the momentum gained in the second game, Cantwell started off the third game by playing their best volleyball of the night and taking an early lead.  The game was back and forth all the way to the very end, with Cantwell having three different opportunities to win the game.  Never quitting, the Tartans fought off every game point to win a thrilling third game by a score of 29-27.  The win was the 16th straight for the team, who will now play Flintridge Prep in the CIF semifinals at home on Wednesday, May 27 at 7 PM.  Come support the Tartans on the road to the CIF finals!!
5/23/2009 1:03 PMBoys Varsity VolleyballYesUpper
Warren Captures St. Margaret’s First Ever CIF Diving ChampionshipUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Sophomore Jessie Warren competed in the Div. III CIF Championships Tuesday, May 12th at Claremont McKenna College.  There were 15 divers that she competed against and she was one of only three underclassman in the group.  Jessie has been a long time gymnast but just started diving about a 16 months ago. 

 

Jessie also placed first during the Academy League meet.  There were other Tartan swimmers who won league championships as well. Cameron Price finished first in both the 200 free and 500 free races.  Carina Prynn was the league champion in the 100 Breast.  Both Cameron and Carina will be top contenders at the Division III CIF meet held this Thursday, May 14th at Mount San Antonio College.  Cameron will compete in the 200 IM and 500 free, Carina will compete in the 100 Breast, and Freshman Mary Ahearn will compete in the 200 IM & 100 butterfly.

 

Congratulations to Jessie and all the Tartan Swimmers!

5/13/2009 1:10 PMAll SportsYesUpper
Carabini Named Lacrosse Athlete of the WeekUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
 

Anna Maria Carabini

St. Margaret's

One of the senior captains, Carabini is headed to play Division I lacrosse at St. Mary's next year, according to Coach Summer Crabtree.

"She is an outstanding leader on our team," Crabtree said. "Anna Maria plays   defensive wing but has made large contributions on the attacking end as of late.  In the past four games she scored 13 goals, had one assist, had five draw   controls, and scooped up 10 groundballs

"She is one of the most talented and enthusiastic players in Orange County. She is always willing to help out a teammate or even a competitor."

5/6/2009 10:38 AMGirls Varsity LacrosseYesUpper
Lacrosse Moves On to PlayoffsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
The 2009 Girls lacrosse team has worked incredibly hard this season. In beating JSerra this past Friday, they finished league play with a strong 9-0 record securing a #7 overall bid for the playoffs. They will play the #10 seed, Laguna Hills High School tomorrow afternoon at St. Margarets 3:30. They strive to improve with every game and they have strong goals and passion heading into the US Lacrosse Southern Section playoffs.
     The 2009 Boy’s lacrosse team had a tough early league start losing to both JSerra and Santa Margarita in overtime. At the conclusion of the second half of league play, the boys defeated both JSerra and Santa Margarita by five goals each. They have secured a three way tie for the Trinity League title and the higher seed entering the playoffs. They are coming off a five game win streak and are very confident going into tomorrow night’s US Lacrosse Southern Section playoff game against Northwood High at St. Margarets at 5:30
5/5/2009 9:20 AMAll SportsYesUpper
Kiraly: Olympic Hall of FamerUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
The greatest vollyball player in the game’s history has another accolade to put on his mantleplace: U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame member.
San Clemente’s Karch Kiraly, with three Olympic gold medals, more career victories, prize money and awards than any other beach volleyball player was voted into the Olympic Hall of Fame last month, the hall announced Tuesday.
Kiraly will be part of a stellar group inducted June 19 in Chicago. Kiraly was selected along with boxer Oscar De La Hoya, ice skater Brian Boitano, former Dream Team member and NBA superstar David Robinson, marathoner Joan Benoit Samuelson, swimmer Amy Van Dyken and the 1996 women’s gymnastics team.
Kiraly’s almost 30-year career ended last season.He currently coaches the St. Margaret’s school volleyball team in San Juan Capistrano and runs the Kiraly Academy. He also began the U.S. Open of Beach Volleyball last summer.
“We at the AVP could not be prouder of Karch,” said Leonard Armato, commissioner and CEO of the AVP Crocs Tour. “Karch has been a great ambassador for the sport of beach volleyball and he deeply deserves this honor. He truly represents the spirit of the Olympic Movement.”
-OCRegister
Thank you to all of you who voted for Karch - we appreciate all your support.
4/22/2009 1:24 PMAll SportsUpper
Girls Golf Wins First MatchUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
4/22/2009 1:24 PMGirls Varsity GolfUpper
Girls Volleyball Has Great WeekendUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The St. Margaret's volleyball team had a great weekend at the Dave Mohs OC Championships.  They won their first two matches in pool play on Friday and then met the number one seed Saturday morning.  Notre Dame Prep was State Champions in Arizona last year and were a much larger team than the fighting Tartans.  St. Margaret's played excellent defense to shock the number one seed and win 25-23, 25-23.  The girls notched 25 digs in the two games.  Here are the stats from the game:  Jordan Hopper 5 kills and 6 digs, Savannah Holte 7 kills and 5 digs and Christina Hart 6 kills and 6 digs.  Setter Alyssa Hopper had 20 assists.  Steady and consistent play frustrated ND and gave the Tartans a win. 

 

With winning the pool the Tartans were placed in a playoff bracket with the other first and second place pool play finishers from the tournament.  The Tartans faced Simi Valley High School who was the second place finisher from their pool.  With starting middle blocker, Christina Hart gone for a soccer game, sophomore Erica Page stepped up for the squad.  In her debut as MB, Erica tallied 8 kills and a solo block.  Strong defense and passing also frustrated Simi but they managed to hold on to the victory in three games 17-25, 25-23, 10-15.  Savannah Holte had a great match with 9 kills and 9 digs.  Freshman Emily Moore also played well adding 3 kills, 2 digs, a solo block and an assist.  Jane McGraw had 4 digs.
Christina Hart goes up for a kill.4/22/2009 1:24 PMGirls Varsity VolleyballUpper
Friday Night LightsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Come Friday night to watch the Tartan Football Team play Whittier Christian.  The Heralds are currently 2-1 with wins over Cochrane HS in Canada and Savanna HS from Anaheim.  Whittier Christian is currently ranked 9th in the Mid-Valley Division and the Tartans are ranked number one in the East Valley Division.  Last year the Tartans beat the Heralds 35-19. 

 

Tartan Field 7:00 PM Kick- Off   Friday September 26

4/22/2009 1:24 PMVarsity FootballUpper
Tartans Start Season off with a SmashUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The girls Tennis program has started off the season exceptionally well.  They are currently 6-0 winning all matches against opponents in higher divisions.  A few of their big wins came against Laguna Beach HS (10-8), JSERRA (14-4) and Santa Margarita (11-7).  Santa Margarita is ranked 10th in the CIF polls for Division 1.  SMES is ranked number one in Division 4 and for the first time in program history the OC Register has ranked us 6th in the County.  This is a top 10 list that the OC Register sports department ranks for all the schools, no matter what division, in Orange County. 

 

The Tartans are led by two tough doubles teams in Mary-Rachel Walsh/Alli Davis and Haley Miller/Hannah Hess.  The team starts league play this week by playing Oxford Academy at home on Tuesday Oct. 7th at 3:15.  The Tartans have not won league since 2005 due to cross town rival Sage Hill. In an earlier tournament match the Tartans beat Sage Hill 6-3. 

 

Come watch these outstanding ladies in action!

4/22/2009 1:24 PMAll SportsUpper
Tartan Tennis in the NewsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
The girls tennis team is off to a great start.  Check out this great article on OCVarsity.
 
 
 
4/22/2009 1:24 PMGirls Varsity TennisUpper
Davis-Walsh OC Register Athlete of the WeekUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
Player of the Week

Allie Davis and Mary Rachel Walsh

St. Margaret's High School

The senior duo captured the momentum in a showdown with Academy League rival Sage Hill by sweeping their doubles matches.

The wins propelled the Tartans to a 10-8 victory over the Lightning on Friday at the Balboa Bay country club and put their team in prime position to win the league title.

4/22/2009 1:24 PMGirls Varsity TennisUpper
Coach Welch InterviewedUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
Our own Coach Welch was interviewed by Paul J. Higgins of AIM Sports.  This is a great interview that really captures the essence of Coach Welch and St. Margaret's.  It is a two part interview so make sure that you see it all.
 
Go Tartans!
 
4/22/2009 1:24 PMVarsity FootballUpper
Football Team in the NewsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
4/22/2009 1:24 PMVarsity FootballUpper
Tennis and Volleyball Begin PlayoffsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The St. Margaret’s Tennis team earned the number one seed in Division IV and will begin match play on Thursday November 13th.  They will play the winner of a “Wild Card” match that will be played Tuesday against Mayfair and Lancaster.  The Tartans will play at home (Rancho San Clemente Racquet Club) on Thursday at 3:00.  To see the entire bracket please click on the link below.

 

http://athletics.smes.org/docs/gtennis.pdf

 

The Tartan Volleyball team received a bye in their first round match and will begin playoffs on Thursday November 13th.  The team will play the winner of Ontario Christian and Providence at home on Thursday at 7:00 PM.  To see the entire bracket please click on the link below.

 

http://athletics.smes.org/docs/gvball.pdf

 

4/22/2009 1:24 PMGirls Varsity TennisUpper
Girls Cross-Country 3rd in the State!Use SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Both of the Tartan cross country teams are ranked in the top ten in the state for division five. The latest rankings have the boy’s team ranked ninth in the state and the girl’s team has jumped from tenth to third in the state. It has been a great season for both of the Tartan cross country teams. It started way back in June with our summer training. We had a record turnout with a lot of new faces eager to test themselves. The racing season started in early September and both teams got off to a strong start. The boy’s team started off the season with a lot of new faces and experience levels but soon got their racing legs under them and made other league teams stand up and notice that they were ready to compete for a league title.

As the season progressed they rounded into shape and earned a second place finish at league finals as well as an 8th place ranking in CIF southern section. The experts also notice their talent level and ranked them 9th in the state for division five. The boys finished second in their heat at the CIF Prelims which earned them a spot in the finals giving them a chance to qualify for state finals in Fresno over Thanksgiving weekend.

On the girls side two of our top five runners graduated leaving a bit of a gap to fill. It was quickly filled by a group of freshmen and newcomers to the sport. They all worked very hard and the girl’s team didn’t miss a beat. Tasha Pavlovich started the year breaking the school record at the Woodbridge course running a time of 18:48 for three miles. She also went on to break several other school records throughout the year making her one of the top runners in St. Margaret’s cross country history. The girls won their second consecutive league title (third in four years) and went on to finish second at the CIF prelims qualifying them for CIF finals. This will give them a great chance to go to the state finals in Fresno for the fourth consecutive year.  The coaches are very proud of both teams’ attitude and effort and look forward to a great future.

4/22/2009 1:24 PMCross CountryUpper
Girls Tennis in CIF FinalsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The girls tennis team is in the CIF Finals on Monday November 24th at 1:30 at Claremont Tennis Club in Claremont, California.  The County’s 3rd ranked team and the Division IV #1 seed will face league rival Sage Hill.  This will be the fourth meeting of the two top seeded squads.  They first met in Sage Hill’s tournament where the Tartans defeated Sage 6-3. 

In league play on October 23rd the Tartans also won in a very close match 10-8.  Just six days later they faced again with the Tartans coming up victorious at 14-4.  Sage Hill is seeded second in the division where they had easy wins over South Hills, Oxnard, Cajon HS, and Walnut High School.  This will surely be an exciting match.  Come support the Tennis team on Monday.

 

Go Tartans!

4/22/2009 1:24 PMGirls Varsity TennisUpper
Varsity Football Advances to CIF Semi Finals!Use SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Tartans drove to Yucca Valley for a hard fought CIF Quarter-Final game on Friday November 28th.  The first half proved to be a defensive battle with both teams stopping each other on the 1 yard line.  The Tartans struck first, in the second quarter, when David Mothander connected a 67 yard pass to J.T. Carpenter.  Mothander than threw to Alex Brolick for a 15 yard catch that landed him in the endzone.

 

Matthew Duenes who ran for 150 yards on the night had an outstanding run for 48 yards towards the end of the second quarter.  This set up a one yard sneak by Mothander for the second touchdown of the night.

 

In the second half the Trojans of Yucca Valley fought back and scored on a 25-yard pass into the end zone.  But, the Tartans answered in the fourth quarter with a 23-yard field goal from Mothander.

The Tartans win streak is now at 40 and they hope to reach Mission Viejoʼs mark of 41 in a row this Friday night, December 5th.  The Tartans will play host to Maranatha of Pasadena.  Maranatha beat Big Bear 23-22 in overtime.

The Tartans will play at home at 7:30 PM on Friday December 5th.

4/22/2009 1:24 PMVarsity FootballYesUpper
QB Mothander Named Scholar-Athlete of the WeekUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
Senior Quarterback David Mothander has been named as the OC Register's Scholar-Athlete of the week for the week of December 1st.

Congratulations David!

Click Here for OCvarsity.com Article.
4/22/2009 1:24 PMVarsity FootballNoUpper
CIF-Semi Finals TonightUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
Tonight SMES plays Maranatha High School in the East Valley CIF Semi final game.  In 2006 the Tartans beat the Minuetemen  21-20 in overtime to clinch the first 11 man CIF Championship in football.  Last year the Tartans beat them twice; out scoring them 109-21 in a non-league game and in the playoffs.  The Minuetmen were minus their QB Matt Schiltz (broken femur) who has verbally committed to Kansas State a D1 college program so the defense will be tested more tonight than perhaps any game this year.  

This year the team has scored more than 600 points in 12 games and only allowed 59 points, that is less than 5 points a game.  Last week against Yucca Valley a school more than 4X the size of St. Margaret's with 1,700 students, played the most physical football probably ever.  The Tartans defense faced an O line that averaged 275 pounds, with 2 players at 295 each.   

If the Tartans can win tonight it would put them not only in the small school finals next Friday night, they would tie the longest winning streak in the county at 41 games held by Mission Viejo High School.  Currently the Tartans are ranked #1 in the state by CIF for the small school division, which means there is a good chance of  them being selected in the small school state championship bowl game, which will be on 12/19.  This is the first time in CIF history there is  small school bowl championship game.
 
Come support the Football team tonight at 7:30 PM on the Tartan Field. 
4/22/2009 1:24 PMVarsity FootballYesUpper
Boys Varsity Soccer Captures Linfield Christian Tournament CrownUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
It took 2 overtimes and a shoot out to decide the Linfield Chrisitian Tournament Final, but the Tartans pulled out victorious, claiming the Championship.

Aaron Victorson stumped a shooter in the penalty round to seal the victory for the Tartans after Colin Shaffer cleanly finished his penalty attempt to set it at 5-4.

The Tartans' defense was stellar all tournament only allowing 4 scores over four matches.  Sophmore Colin Shaffer earned tournament defensive MVP and Senior goaltender Aaron Victorson was named to the All Tournament team.

Brian Vail was man of the match for all of the tournament contributing 8 goals including a game winner with a minute left to play against Saddleback Valley and the two goals in regulation in the final.

Freshmen Cole Gennrich and David Field played tough in the middle. Field earned All Tournament honors for his efforts.

The Tartans continue thier pre-season schedule this Tuesday against Ontario Christian at Rancho Capistrano at 3:15pm.
4/22/2009 1:24 PMBoys Varsity SoccerYesUpper
Three-Peat and off to the State BowlUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

The Tartans are the CIF East Valley Division Champions after they defeated Twentynine Palms 17-3.  But there is more football action as the mighty Tartans earned a ticket to the CIF State Bowl game.  The Tartans will face Hamilton Union High School representing the Northern Section of CIF on Friday, December 19th at 4:30 PM at the Home Depot Center in Carson, CA.  Tickets are $15.00 for an adult and $8.00 for children/students/and seniors.  Tickets can be purchased in the Tartan Athletic Office starting Tuesday, December 16th. 

4/22/2009 1:24 PMVarsity FootballYesUpper
Tartans Bring Home Liberty Christian Tournament ChampionshipUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
The Girls’ Varsity Basketball team began its season with a tough loss against Fairmont Prep and looked ahead and saw it had 7 games in a 10 day span—wow—this could be rough beginning for this young team! The first few games of the Liberty Christian Tournament didn’t pose too much of a problem as the entire team was able to get quality minutes and each player posted numbers in the scorebook.

The team then faced Orangewood Academy, a more athletic team then the others, but the Tartans battled hard and came away with the victory. Freshmen Jenny Tedori made a statement in the game with sixteen points and nine steals. Each game the young freshmen on the team were getting more confidence and those who joined from their fall sports were getting their rhythm back on the court.
 
The Tartans had earned their place in the championship game against a sharp shooting, faced paced Western Christian team. Western got out to an early lead and kept the Tartan on their heels most of the first half. A late first half surge by the Tartans cut the lead to six at halftime and the girls were determined to come out strong in the second half. Two long bombs by Western to open the second half gave them an eleven point lead once again but the Tartans responded with their own great shooting by Kayla Moritzky and Jen Tedori. Claire Hosinski was huge on the boards grabbing seventeen rebounds and coming up with ten important second half points. Ali Robinson played a key defensive role in the one- three- one while Evelyn Morfin made a key defensive play in the fourth quarter to break the game open and the Tartans never looked back from there to bring home the championship trophy.
 
Kayla Moritzky was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament and Claire Hosinski earned All Tournament honors for her play throughout the week. The team with play Laguna Beach, Godinez and Saddleback Valley Christian before taking a few days off for the Christmas break –a well deserved few days off for all!
4/22/2009 1:24 PMGirls Varsity BasketballNoUpper
Winter Teams Play Oxford FridayUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

On Friday the 16th we will have six teams traveling to Oxford Academy. The Boy’s Varsity Basketball team, who has a record of 8-6 with a league record of 2-1, will be taking on an Oxford team that is 0-2 in league play. Despite the record, this will be no easy task being the visiting school. The boy’s JV Basketball team will be challenged by an Oxford team that is 1-1 in league play.

     The Girl’s Varsity Basketball team has compiled an impressive 13-3 overall record including a big league win against Brethren 50-45 and are currently 3-0 in league play. They will be tested without Kayla Moritzky against Oxford’s girls who are 2-0 in league. The JV girls will take their 1-3 league record against Oxford’s 0-1 league record.

     The Girl’s Varsity Soccer team who is 9-5 overall and 3-0 in league has outscored their league opponents 15-0 in the last three games. Oxford’s girls are 1-0 in league so this is a big game for league standings. The JV girls are 2-0 in league play and recently defeated Brethren Christian 1-0 to put them at 2-0 in league. The Oxford JV girls are 0-1.

     Boy’s Soccer is 9-2-1 overall and 2-1 in league including a loss against Sage Hill 1-0 that was ended early due to fog. They are coming off a big league victory over Brethren Christian 4-0. Oxford’s boys are 2-0 in league which makes this a crucial game for both teams in league play. The JV boys are 1-1-2 overall with a big win over league opponent Brethren Christian 2-1 and Oxford’s JV boys have played no league games.

4/22/2009 1:24 PMAll SportsYesUpper
Tartan Football 2008 - Remember the TartansUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
January 20, 2009, a day in history for all to remember:  the City Council of San Juan Capistrano honored the Tartans for their year like no other.  The achievements and honors included: victors in the inaugural C.I.F. Small School State Championship, the first C.I.F. state championship in the history of San Juan Capistrano, C.I.F. Champions for the third consecutive year, Academy League Champions for the sixth consecutive year, state of California's longest winning streak (43 consecutive victories), Orange County's longest winning streak ever, the fifth longest winning streak in the United States, third consecutive undefeated season, the first team in Orange County history to go 15-0, the number one scoring team in the state, the highest scoring team in Orange County history, the number one scoring defense in the state.
 
David Mothander was the Academy League's Kicker of the Year, CIF Offensive Player of the Year, All State, and All American.
Alex Brolick was the Academy League's Defensive Most Valuable Player, CIF Co-Defensive Player of the Year, and All State.
Jeremy Baileys was All Academy League, CIF Co-Defensive Player of the Year, and All State.
John Murayama was the Academy League's Offensive Most Valuable Player, and All CIF.
Chasen Smith was the Academy League's Lineman of the Year, All CIF, and All State.
Colfax Selby was All Academy League, All CIF and All State.
Mack Santora was All Academy League and All State.
Freddie Valencia was All Academy League and All CIF.
Jeff Askin was All Academy League and All CIF.
JT Carpenter was All Academy League and All CIF.
Michael Schmall was All Academy League and All CIF.
Chris Adams was All Academy League and All CIF.
Will Findiesen, Leo Garcia, Austin Holden and Connor McClure were also All Academy League.
Coach Harry Welch was the Academy League, the CIF, and the State Coach of the Year.
4/22/2009 1:24 PMVarsity FootballYesUpper
Wrestlers Succeed on the MatUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

Four years after its creation the SMES wrestling team has captured the runner up position in the newly created Alpha League. But what led up to this exceptional accomplishment? The team’s dedication, love, hard work and phenomenal coaching gave the team the edge needed to be a CIF worthy competitor.

In its first year the SMES wrestling team was a noncompeting team focused on sharpening its technique and learning the exciting sport of wrestling.  Since then the team has been unstoppable with three consecutive winning seasons. SMES wrestlers have continuously upheld good sportsmanship and have shown great athletic abilities on and off the mat. Everyday this season the wrestlers have been dedicated to their sport becoming better wrestlers everyday.

With new talent coming from the freshman class, and leadership from the seniors, this team has a strong foundation rooted in its desire to be the best program it can be.  Last Wednesday the wrestlers had their most impressive performance to date.  They competed with a high level of ferocity that allowed them to win eight medal rounds, four of them Individual League Championship.   Noteworthy wrestlers include Andrew Balcof (125lbs) a sophomore, who had two matches where he crushed his opponents with first round pins despite a vertebrae injury that left him unable to train for three weeks prior to the event. 

Another outstanding young man who placed first was senior Rowley Rice (135lbs), with one pin and a nail biting third round victory.  The most exciting win of the day came from Stefan Toubia (215lbs), a senior who showed his intimidating and far stronger opponent that no matter the situation technique and the will to win always perseveres.  Senior, Cole Saladino (152lbs) our final league champion, had the hardest match of the day due to his inconvenient epistaxis (bloody nose) that looked like something out of a “slasher” movie.   Wrestlers who placed second in League include Will Travis (130lbs), Chris Guichet (140lbs), Alex Hope (171lbs) and Jose Nevarez (145lbs). 

The Tartans wrestlers that medaled for their respective weights will look to continue wrestling for individual post-season achievements in two weeks at the CIF individual Championships at John Glenn HS in Norwalk, CA February 20th and February 21st. Look for the Tartan wrestlers to be making more news in the days and years ahead.

4/22/2009 1:24 PMWrestlingYesUpper
Winter PlayoffsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

All five of the Winter sports had outstanding seasons.  We had 3 League Championships and two runner-up finishes.  Playoffs begin this week and we would love to have you come out and support the Tartans. The Boys basketball team, who is seeded eighth in Division VA, will play host to Avalon High School, Wednesday February 18 at 7:00 pm in the Pasternack Field House.  If they win they will play again on Friday, opponent and site yet to be determined. The Girls soccer team finished the regular season as Academy League Champions and start playoffs seeded fourth in Division VI.  They play Citrus Hill High School Thursday February 19 at 3:15 pm on the Tartan Field.  The Boys soccer team was also Academy League Champions and head into playoffs as the third seeded team in Division VII.  They play Friday February 20 at 5:30 pm against Pilgrim High School at home.  Our wrestling team is sending four wrestlers to compete in the CIF Individuals at John Glen HS in Norwalk on Friday February 20th as well.  To round out the winter teams the Girls Basketball team, who is seeded eighth in Division VA earned a first round bye and will begin play on Saturday February 21st.  The team will face the winner of New Roads vs. Riverside Christian at 7:30 pm in the Pasternack Field House. 

 

This is an exciting time for Tartan athletics - Come be a part of it! 

4/22/2009 1:24 PMAll SportsYesUpper
Soccer Teams Win in Winter PlayoffsUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

 

This past week has been very busy for the Winter sports teams.  The wrestling team sent five wrestlers to the CIF Individuals.  Jacob Garret, Rowly Rice, Cole Saladino, Stefan Toubia and Nick Tsutsui all competed. This first time experience was a great experience for the team. Senior Nick Tsutsui was the first wrestler for St. Margaret’s to ever set foot on a CIF mat, and was also the first ever to win a bout in CIF individual competition.

Nick went on winning two of his four matches of the day, and just barely missed the mark to move on to the medal rounds, losing a match in the third round of consolation.
Senior Stefan Toubia wrestled an amazing first round bout pummeling his opponent for three periods and winning the match with a large margin in points. Stefan managed to get the second farthest when he was beaten in the later rounds of the consolation.

 

Boys Basketball reached the second round of CIF and played Siera Canyon at home.  The boys put up a tough fight but fell short 46-49.  The Girls Basketball team reached the quarterfinals after beating Riverside Christian 56-45.  The team came up against the number one seed, Bell-Jeff, and lost. 

Boys soccer traveled for their second round game to St. Monica.  It was a tough fight but the Tartans won 2-0.  Next up for the team is a quarterfinal match against Avalon at Avalon on Friday February 26. 

 

The Girls soccer team had an outstanding win in their quarterfinal match beating Calvary Murrieta 1-0.  In the first few minutes of the game, Murrieta’s goal keeper earned a red card which caused the Lancers to play a man down the rest of the game.  In the middle of the second half freshman, Chelsie Churchill, drew a foul and McCally Patch took advantage of the penalty and kicked a beautiful shot into the upper right corner of the goal.  The Tartans will travel to San Jacinto, the number one seed in the Division, in the semifinal match Tuesday March 3rd. 

4/22/2009 1:24 PMAll SportsYesUpper
Great ExperienceUse SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).

February 20th, St Margaret's wrestling team traveled up to John Glenn High School to compete in the CIF individuals’ tournament. Six wrestlers had the opportunity to compete Friday, at the first CIF tournament St. Margaret's four-year-old team has ever competed in. Seniors Nick Tsutsui, Stefan Toubia, Cole Saladino, and Rowley Rice, along with junior Alex Hope, and freshman sensation Jacob Garrett were all given the opportunity to wrestle. Senior Nick Tsutsui was the first wrestler for St. Margaret’s to ever set foot on at CIF mat, and was also the first ever to win a bout in CIF individual competition. Nick went on winning two of his four matches in the day, and just barely missed the mark to move on to the medal rounds losing a match in the third round of consolation. Senior Stefan Toubia wrestled an amazing first round bout pummeling his opponent for three periods and winning the match with a large margin in points. Stefan managed to get the second farthest when he was beaten in the later rounds of the consolation.

 

Senior, Captain Rowley Rice had a tough draw early on wrestling a top seeded wrestler in the first round but battled back in his second match, which would have gone into overtime, and possibly earning him a victory, if it weren’t for the referee prematurely calling points. The two point takedown that was awarded to Rowley’s opponent should have been given to Rowley but were then waived off and given to his opponent, making the score uneven and pushing Rowley away from a possible win.

 

Junior Alex Hope was battling the flu which led to him being unable to take the mat and forced to forfeit his bouts on the day.

 

Freshmen Jacob Garrett was the youngest St. Margaret’s wrestler to compete that day, making it to the second round before being eliminated. With the way he has wrestled this season it’s certain that he has a promising future with the sport of Grappling. The team went into the day not knowing what was going to come out of it. But overall even if the wrestlers did not make it as far as they might have wanted, they went home knowing that they wrestled their hardest.

4/22/2009 1:24 PMWrestlingNoUpper
Tartan Volleyball Wins Tourney!Use SHIFT+ENTER to open the menu (new window).
On Saturday, the Tartan boys’ volleyball team showed what they can do by winning the SLO Town Tourney; a tournament with mainly Division II teams that is hosted by San Luis Obispo High. Despite a slow start in pool play, the team rallied to take first in their pool with an overall record of 4-2. In the playoffs, the Tartans beat Madera from Fresno, only to face a San Luis Obispo team which beat SMES in a Friday night match in 4 games. The Tartans came alive against San Luis, defeating the Tigers 25-14 and being led at the net by freshmen middle blocker Nick Adams, who shut down their offense with 3 blocks in one game. Building off that momentum, the Tartans defeated Rio Mesa in the semifinals by a score of 25-18. In the finals, the Tartans faced division I California High School from northern California. Visibly tired, the Tartans found themselves down 12-3 with no timeouts left. Steady serving, consistent passing, and smart hitting allowed the Tartans to fight their way back into the game, storming back to tie it up 18-18. Never looking back, the mighty Tartans continued to roll, finishing off their unbelievable comeback and defeating California by a final score of 25-23, ending the game by outscoring the opposition 22-11. The win was the true definition of a team effort, as all nine players contributed to the victory. Named to the all-tournament team were senior Harley Frost, who tallied 27 kills on the day and junior Kory Kiraly, who dished out 103 assists and kept the offense rolling. Junior Woody Quinn was named tournament MVP and led the Tartan offense by totaling 36 kills for the day. The Tartans look to continue their stellar play at home this week, facing division I JSerra on Tuesday at 5 pm and Tarbut V’ Torah on Thursday at 5 pm.
4/22/2009 1:24 PMBoys Varsity VolleyballYesUpper
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