Wingate 2009 Booklet
- 1. June 15th. Sponsored by the PSAL Wingate Memorial Fund, Snapple, Nike and Dairy Council, Inc. Joel I. Klein Santiago Taveras Sabrina King Donald J. Douglas 44-36 Vernon Boulevard, Long Island City, New York 11101 p (718) 707-4200 f (718) 707-4224 www. PSAL.org Chancellor Deputy Chancellor Chief Executive Executive Director
- 2. Table of Contents Letter from the Executive Director 3 The PSAL 4 Program 5 Fall Sports 6 Winter Sports 13 Spring Sports 19 PSAL Staff 28 Commissioners 29 History of the Outstanding Athlete Award 30 Outstanding Athlete Award 2008-2009 31 Acknowledgements 33
- 3. PSAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR W elcome to the 2008-09 PSAL Wingate Fund annual dinner honoring our outstanding senior scholar athletes. Whether it is handball, basketball, soccer, lacrosse or, our latest addition, Double Dutch, the PSAL has been serving the sporting needs of NYC high school students since 1903. There is a lot of history and greatness in this league and it is my sincere pleasure to add, with your selections, another chapter to this book. It took a lot of hard work, both in and out of the classroom, to be the recipient of this most distinguished award. You should be hugely proud of your accomplishments. I know we are! Let me also thank your parents, coaches, athletic directors, principals and the PSAL staff for creating an environment that was able to showcase your skills and talents. Wishing you all the best that the future has to offer, Donald J. Douglas Executive Director, Public Schools Athletic League 3
- 4. THE PSAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The PSAL Wingate Fund The Public Schools Athletic League would like to thank the following for their assistance and support: The PSAL Wingate Fund was founded in 1903 as the Public Schools Athletic League with a com- bined purpose of financing and administering the athletic programs of the New York City Public Schools. PSAL Wingate Memorial Fund When the school system assumed primary responsibility for these activities, PSAL Inc. and the Gen- eral George Wingate Fund began to provide modest supplementary funding for the PSAL program. In 1995, PSAL Inc, and the Wingate Memorial Foundation merged to become the PSAL Wingate Snapple Fund which continues the tradition of honoring and supporting the PSAL athletes of New York City. We are pleased to join with the PSAL in presenting the PSAL Wingate Award to New York City’s Beat the Streets outstanding senior athletes. The PSAL New York Jets The New York City Department of Education Public Schools Athletic League (PSAL) is responsible for organizing and administering the interscholastic sports program for all New York City senior and alternative high schools. Competition is conducted in accordance with the regulation of the State New York Yankees Commissioner of Education and the Regulations of the New York City Department of Education. New York City Parks Department Nike American Dairy Association and Dairy Council, Inc. Sports Foundation United Federation of Teachers “I most honestly believe in our league and I feel that in promoting athletics among the school children of New York Cit y, alone with the sane and the healthy lines it United States of America Cricket Association has followed, it is per forming a ser vice which is of utmost impor tance.” President Theodore Roosevelt Roosevelt, Vice President, Public Schools Athletic League, August 19, 1905 4 33
- 5. PROGRAM Welcome Daniel Harris Master of Ceremonies Acknowledgement Rosemarie Romero PSAL Wingate Memorial Fund Santiago Taveras Deputy Chancellor, New York City Department of Teaching and Learning Sabrina Hope King, Ed.D. Chief Academic, Officer Curriculum And Professional Development Guest Speaker Jim Sann, Assistant Coach New Jersey Nets Greetings Donald J. Douglas Executive Director, Public Schools Athletic League Athletic Awards Presentation: Fall Winter Spring Special Awards Presentation Rosemarie Romero PSAL Wingate Memorial Fund Concluding Remarks Donald J. Douglas 5 Designed by Galina Arlov Printed in U.S.A
- 6. FALL SPORTS OUTSTANDING STUDENT ATHLETE OUTSTANDING FEMALE STUDENT / ATHLETE 2008 – 2009 School Year The Margaret Wigiser Award honors the outstanding female student-athlete from among all the PSAL WINGATE Award winners for the 2008 – 2009 school year. Margaret Wigiser was the Assistant Director of the Public School’s Athletic League, now retired. Girls Bowling During her tenure, Ms. Wigiser was instrumental in developing both the program design and the standards for Girls’ Interscholastic Athletics in the New York City Public Schools. The development Boys Bowling of the guidelines, which later became Title IX of Federal Education Law, fostered equity for women’s’ athletics which, until that time, had not existed. Girls Cross Country The PSAL WINGATE MEMORIAL FUND is proud to salute Ms. Wigiser for her leadership in the Boys Cross Country field of high school women’s’ interscholastic sports. Boys Fencing Boys Football OUTSTANDING MALE STUDENT / ATHLETE 2008 – 2009 School Year Girls Golf The John Glading Memorial Award honors the outstanding male student-athlete from among all the PSAL WINGATE award winners for the 2008 – 2009 school year. Boys Soccer Girls Swimming This award is given in memory of John Glading, former Assistant Director of Health and Physical Education and Director of the Public Schools’ Athletic League. Girls Volleyball John Glading also directed the PSAL program during the development of Junior Varsity sports programs, sports expansion and the development of both Sport Commissioner and Athletic Direc- Alternative Boys Basketball tor positions in the program. He also led the development of true New York State Championships through the creation of the NYSFSHSAA championships in a number of sports. Recognized by leaders of athletic programs throughout the United States, John was always true to the philosophy that the PSAL was an integral part of the overall development of all the STUDENT ATHLETES who competed in the program. The PSAL WINGATE MEMORIAL FUND is proud to salute our former President through this award. 6 31
- 7. PSAL WINGATE AWARDS 2008-2009 FALL SPORTS - Girls Bowling Kristina Terpo Sheepshead Bay High School History of the PSAL – Wingate Outstanding Athlete Award Ressa Levy, Principal The first ‘PSAL Outstanding Athlete Award’ was presented to outstanding senior male student- Neil Griffenberg, Athletic Director athletes representing the various PSAL sports, in 1971, at the Iron Horse Steak House. The Paul Furmansky, Coach restaurant owners, Horn & Hardart, sponsored the award for nine years and called it the “Iron Horse Award”. In 1981 the Consolidated Edison Company of New York began its sponsorship Abby Kastin, Commissioner and moved the Awards Dinner to the Heisman Room of the NYC Downtown Athletic Club. From 1981 -1983, the Award was re-named ‘the General George W. Wingate Outstanding Athlete Award’ but the ‘Iron Horse Award’ was re-instated in 1984. In 1999, NIKE, Inc. sponsored the Bio: In her four years at Sheepshead, the ever-improving Terpo posted averages of 176, 186, 212 and 225, Awards Dinner and retained the Iron Horse name. respectively. In addition to rolling scores of at least 200 more than 36 times in her high school career, the team captain took AP and honors courses and even served as Editor-in-Chief of the school yearbook. In addi- tion, Terpo did community service for New York State Assemblyman Alan Maisel and worked in the athletic of- The Pegasus Award was first presented to outstanding PSAL senior female student-athletes in fice at Sheepshead. "Kristina is the best bowler and student-athlete that I have had in 18 years of coaching," 1981 at the Tavern on the Green Restaurant. The Mobil Corporation was the sole sponsor of Furmansky said. "She will be greatly missed." the Pegasus Award from its inception until 1998. In 1999, the PSAL/Wingate Memorial Fund and the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association joined with Mobil in sponsoring the Pegasus Awards Dinner. FALL SPORTS - Boys Bowling For the school year 1999-2000, the PSAL/Wingate Memorial Fund, the Sporting Goods Manu- facturers Association, and the Sports Foundation were the sponsors for the first joint Iron Horse Antonino D'Angelo and Pegasus Awards Dinner which was held at the New York Marriott-Brooklyn. William C. Bryant High School In the Fall of 2001, the Iron Horse and Pegasus Awards were consolidated and renamed the “Heisman-PSAL-Wingate Outstanding Athlete Award” and in the Fall of 2007 the Award was Aaron M. Perez, Principal re-named the “PSAL Wingate Outstanding Athlete Award. The Iron Horse and Pegasus Awards Guy Yacovone, Athletic Director were the most singular athletic honor that could be bestowed on a New York City Public Schools Athletic League high school senior student-athlete and the tradition continues. Paul Hornstein, Coach The PSAL Wingate Awards have a long and rich history, with Awardees going on to even greater Gary Kastin, Commissioner accomplishments on and off the field. The PSAL is proud of each and every one of our honorees past, present and future. Bio: As D’Angelo knocked down pins, he built up his reputation as one of the best bowlers in the city. He placed in the top 10 citywide in each of his first three years, including ranking No. 1 his junior year (222 average). He closed out his senior season with a Queens borough individual championship and ranked third citywide. But it wasn’t all about personal gains for the captain, who helped the Owls go undefeated in league play his freshman, sophomore and senior seasons. "Antonino has been a solid leader and a consistent performer for all his four years," Hornstein said. "He showed a tremendous amount of leadership, especially when he had to have a lot of the responsibility for the team's success on his shoulders." 30 7
- 8. FALL SPORTS - Girls Cross Country PSAL COMMISSIONERS Shannon Browne Curtis High School Baseball Robert Pertsas Aurelia Curtis, Principal Baseball Asst. David Velkas Eric Ritzer, Athletic Director Basketball - Boys Mel Goldstein Joe Sicilian, Coach Basketball Asst. Artie Leitner Basketball - Girls Shavon Glover Dwayne Burnett, Commissioner Bowling - Girls Abby Kastin Bio: This student-athlete goes the distance when it comes to sports, grades and community service. Browne Bowling - Boys Gary Kastin is a multiple-year PSAL and Staten Island champion with personal bests of 2:15 in the half-mile, 5:07 in the one mile and 10:42 in the indoor 3000. A member of the National Honor Society (Arista) and Student Orga- Cricket Bassett Thompson nization President, this Ivy-league candidate aims to major in liberal arts with an eye on law school. In addi- Cricket Asst. Ricky Kassoon tion to miles, she has logged more than 200 hours of community service for a variety of causes, making her a well-rounded person. "I could go on forever about Shannon," her coach said, "so let me say it simply. She Double Dutch Andrea Cherry is my best athlete. More importantly, Shannon is a young woman who cares about her family, teammates and Cross Country Dwayne Burnett coaches." Fencing Boy & Girls Ivan Lee Football Alan Arbuse Football Asst. Jerry Epstein Golf - Boys & Girls Todd Bordonaro FALL SPORTS - Boys Cross Country Gymnastics - Girls Joanne Lucianno Joe Brancale Gymnastics - Boys Tom Franqui Handball - Boys George Diaz McKee/Staten Island Tech High School Handball - Girls Michael Trowbridge Vincent Maniscalo, Principal Lacrosse - Boys & Girls Larry Cantor James McCarthy, Athletic Director Soccer - Girls Will Stasiuk Soccer - Boys Vito Rizzi Bruce Lafeir, Coach Softball Asimoula (Sylvia) Makresia Dwayne Burnett, Commissioner Softball Asst. Dawn Guliaro Bio: The Staten Island champ and city standout, Brancale's specialized in the 2.5 mile and 5K (he ran a Swimming - Boys & Girls Robert Kolonkowski 16:40.89 to win the borough title). Want more impressive numbers? He held a 99.72 average and scored Tennis - Girls Janet Miles 2070 on the SAT while taking on a workload of advanced placement courses in chemistry, physics, world history, English Language and English history. He even found time to volunteer for the Boy Scouts of America Tennis - Boys Evan Klein and local churches. No wonder he wastes little time while running."Joe is an incredible athlete," his coach Track, Indoor & Outdoor Dwayne Burnett said, "but more importantly, he is a tremendous person." Volleyball - Girls Fred Rodriguez Volleyball - Boys Shavon Glover Wrestling Larry Cantor Alternative Mike Davis Alternative Program Neil Steinberg 8 29
- 9. PSLA STAFF FALL SPORTS - Boys Fencing Sean Dhanraj New York City Department of Education Brooklyn Technical High School Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor Randy Asher, Principal Joel I. Klein, Chancellor Santiago Taveras, Deputy Chancellor Armando Cataldi, Athletic Director Sabrina Hope King, Ed. D., Chief Academic Officer Curriculum And Professional Development, Donald J. Douglas, Executive Director PSAL Bert Yaged, Coach Ivan Lee, Commissioner Mike Abernethy Sports Consultant Bio: Dhanraj emerged from fencing class to become a celebrated member of the Brooklyn Technical team. A captain for two of his three seasons, his skill and leadership ability were always on the mark. In his junior year, Yolanda Alford Sports Scheduler Dhanraj placed first in the PSAL invitational tournament. This year, he scored victories in 12 of 16 matches to Lorna Austin Assistant Administrator bring his wins total at BT to 31, not counting tournaments. “In more than thirty years of coaching fencing,” his coach said, “maybe a handful of fencers have lived up to the standards that Sean has exhibited. I'm proud to Alan Blanc Eligibility have been his coach and will miss him immensely.” Elaine Fang Finance Danny Harris Sports Coordinator Lance Hermus Sports Coordinator Diedre Hurst Finance Maria Lenna Facilitator Jasmine Marte Receptionist FALL SPORTS - Football Karl Mehtaji Finance Torian Phillips Brenda Morgan Sports Coordinator Victoria Mondragon Clerical Assistant Port Richmond High School Larry Munnerlyn Finance Timothy Gannon, Principal Tyrone Parker Sports Coordinator Susan Rossi, Athletic Director Maria Roman Webmaster Ginger Spencer NCAA Compliance Officer Lou Vesce, Coach Alan Arbuse, Commissioner Bio: Phillips didn't start playing organized football until his sophomore year, but made up for lost time in a hurry. He went on to become one of the best ever at Port Richmond, leading the team to its first ever football championship. He scored a record-tying four touchdowns in the championship game on his way to Most Valu- able Player honors. Phillips ran for 1,586 yards his senior year and scored 34 touchdowns, the third-highest total in city history. Phillips received offers from many well-known programs before committing to Syracuse and was named to the NYC Coaches Association All-City Football Team. “He was always there when we needed him,” Vesce said. “The kid just makes plays.” 28 9
- 10. FALL SPORTS - Girls Golf SPRING SPORTS - Cricket Alyssa Kuhn Thakur Singh Tottenville High School John Adams H.S. John Tuminaro, Principal Grace Zwillenberg, Principal James Munson, Athletic Director John O’Donoghue, Athletic Director Tom Tierney, Coach Alex Navarette, Coach Todd Bordonaro, Commissioner Bassett Thompson, Commissioner Bio: Alyssa has been a four year starter and team captain for the two-time defending City champion Tottenville Bio: Singh helped start the cricket program at John Adams last year and has been instrumental in the Spar- Girls Golf team. Over Alyssa’s four years she has compiled a 37-5 match record. Alyssa is a true champion, tans winning 19 out of 24 regular season matches. The all-rounder led John Adams to the city championship competing in four PSAL Individual Championships and competing in the City Championship final match in all match last year and has them in a running for a city title this year as well. four years as a starter. As a two-time defending City champion, Alyssa leaves a winning legacy and tradition that will be difficult to match. FALL SPORTS - Boys Soccer Malick Faye Martin Luther King Jr. High School SPRING SPORTS - Double Dutch Stephen Noonan, Principal Martin Jacobson, Coach Noelita Bowman Vito Rizzi, Commissioner Dr. Susan S. McKinney School of the Art Bio: Widely considered the best goalkeeper in the city, Faye lived up to his billing as such by leading the Paula, Holmes, Principal Knights to a city championship. Long (6-foot-3) and athletic, Faye allowed only four goals in the regular sea- son, but was at his best in the playoffs. He blanked an offensively gifted Francis Lewis squad in the semifinals Nicole Sledge, Athletic Director before shutting down Beacon in penalty kicks to win the championship. Sure, the Knights have won 11 titles in the last 13 years, but Faye is among the best to ever play the position at the tradition-rich school. The Sen- Zakiva, Harris, Coach egal native was named player of the year by The Daily News and Fiveborosports.com. He earned his coach’s praise, as well. “Having him back there makes all the difference,” Jacobson said. “He’s one of the best I’ve Andrea K. Cherry, Commissioner ever had and without a doubt the best in the city.” Bio: Throughout her high school tenure, Bowman has always maintained a high academic standing. As a result, she will be the Valedictorian of her senior class and has been accepted to Hampton University, where she will be attending in the fall. Some of Bowman's other academic and social achievements include being a member of the National Honor Society, treasurer of Student Goverment, member of the Senior Planning Committee, captain of the Marching Band's dance team, editor of the McKinney Living Magazine (which is a partnership with Martha Stewart Living Magazine) and -- oh, by the way -- captain of McKinney's first Double Dutch team. As captain, Bowman served as both a recruiter and motivator for the team. Noelita helped her team place in top five several weeks in a row and even when the team did not make it to the Championship, she kept a positive attitude. "She always showed encouragement to her teammates," said Coach Harris, "and always tried to push them as well as herself to the next level. I have watched her grow tremendously as jumper. She worked very hard at acquiring new skills each week." 10 27
- 11. SPRING SPORTS - Boys Tennis FALL SPORTS - Girls Swimming Kirsten Guelly Wei Cheng Lin Townsend Harris High School Benjamin Cardozo High School Kenneth Bonamo, Principal Gerald Martori, Principal Wanda Nix, Athletic Director Gary Nuszer, Athletic Director James Jordan, Coach Howie Arons, Coach Robert Kolonkowski, Commissioner Evan Klein, Commissioner Bio: Kirsten’s resume over her four year high school career speaks volumes as to why she is being honored for this award. A four time PSAL Open Champion in the 100 yard Butterfly, four time NYSPHSAA State Bio: A true student-athlete with an 85+ average in a rigorous academic program, Lin went 8-0 as a senior and Qualifier , finalist in the 100 Butterfly at State Championships in 2007, current PSAL record holding 200 never lost in 17 career PSAL regular season matches. He finished second in the PSAL after a close loss to Medley Relay team, captain of her high school team, captain of the Flushing YMCA Flyers swim team, YMCA teammate, Jon Raude, at the PSAL Individual Tennis Championships on the courts at Billie Jean King National National Championship Qualifier and Finalist, Red Cross certified Lifeguard and Professional Rescuer, Honor Tennis Center. His performance at the National Tennis Center qualified him for the New York State Tennis Roll for all four years of High School and a Member of the Science Honor Society. Kirsten has made her Championships. Lin will attend the University of Connecticut in the fall. “The best number two in NYC, could mark in and out of the pool and continues to be a leader to her fellow team mates and classmates. Kirsten play number one anywhere else,” said Coach Arons. playing singles against Fanny . . . even though I have will be attending and swimming at Penn State University in the fall. lost the last ten straight.” FALL SPORTS - Girls Volleyball SPRING SPORTS - Boys Volleyball Hannah Cassius Todd Gaugler Fiorello H. Laguardia High School Benjamin Cardozo High School Kim Bruno, Principal Gerald Martori, Principal Tom Franqui, Athletic Director Gary Nuszer, Athletic Director Arthur Sterenbuch, Coach Daniel Scarola, Coach Fred Rodriguez, Commissioner Shavon Glover, Commissioner Bio: Cassius wasted no time establishing herself at LaGuardia. In her freshman year, she was recognized as Bio: Gaugler’s academic averages are impressive: 94 overall; 98 in math, and 96 in science. His perfor- Rookie of the Year, Most Valuable Player and Scholar Athlete. But she didn't stop there, not by a long shot. mance on the volleyball court is equally as impressive. As an outside hitter, Gaugler led Cardozo to four The super setter, who also excelled defensively, improved her game by playing in the Empire State Games, Final Four appearances, two PSAL titles, and a runner-up finish. He plans on going to Queens College, in Big Apple Games, and other club teams during her high school career. As Cassius improved, so did the the honors math and science research program, where he intends to major in mathematics, and hopes to do Athletics, eventually going undefeated and winning their division in her junior year. She made her mark off the his graduate work at NYU. Off the court and out of the classroom Gaugler has done a lot of volunteer work court, too, as a member of the National Honor Society and Student Body President, among other extracur- assisting in fixing up his church and making its programs run smoothly. “Todd is one of the hardest workers I ricular activities. "I have been at LaGuardia for over 30 years," her coach said, "and this is the first time I have have ever had the pleasure of coaching,” said Coach Scarola. “His desire and competitive fire is what led this felt strongly enough to recommend a graduating senior for the PSAL Wingate volleyball award. Hannah has team to three consecutive finals appearances and two championship banners. His work ethic was a great been an inspiration to her teammates both on and off the court." example to his teammates, and led his teammates to want to be better players.” 26 11
- 12. FALL SPORTS - Alternative Boys Basketball SPRING SPORTS - Girls Softball Wynn Adams Ashley Corrao John V. Lindsay Wildcat Academy Tottenville High School Ron Tabano, Principal John Tuminaro, Principal Andrew Green, Coach James Munson, Athletic Director Mike Davis, Commissioner Cathy Morano, Coach Bio: There’s something to be said for the leading scorer on a championship team. Adams led the Wildcats to a Asimoula (Sylvia) Makresia, Commissioner title while averaging 15 points, seven rebounds and four assists per contest. He was the go-to-guy, no doubt, but there’s more to his game that just points. As the captain, he led by example on and off the court, making Bio: As a four-year starting catcher, Carrao has led Tottenville to three PSAL titles and a chance at a fourth. those around him better. Adams, who plans to attend Delaware State University, was an honorable mention Her .426 batting average, 26 runs batted in and 24 runs scored during the regular season propelled the honor roll student who found time to volunteer at Harlem’s Children Zone. “Wynn was an outstanding athlete Pirates to another championship run. Corrao, who batted .541 as a junior and was named Daily News Player for Wildcat Academy," his coach said. “He exhibited the qualities of good sportsmanship and character as of the Year, received an athletic scholarship from Dominican College in New Jersey. “Ashley has been a four- captain of the team.” year starter and has been a big part of the success of this team,” said Coach Morano. “She has really devel- oped as a player and a team leader over the past four years. She has been a pleasure to coach.” SPRING SPORTS - Girls Tennis Julia Xu Hunter College High School Randy Collins, Principal Neil Potter, Athletic Director Sandra Miley, Coach Janet Miles, Commissioner Bio: Xu has won 23 of 25 tennis matches in her career. This year she was 6-0 at first singles and led Hunter to a berth in the Final Four. Xu finished third in the PSAL Individual Tennis Championships at Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. 12 25
- 13. SPRING SPORTS - Boys Outdoor Track WINTER SPORTS Kameron George East New York Transit Tech High School Larry Kalvar, Principal Paul Tropiano, Athletic Director Sydney Mcintosh, Coach Dwayne Burnett, Commissioner Girls Basketball Bio: George has a habit of finishing first. As a senior he won the 1600-meter and 3200-meter races at the PSAL Outdoor Track & Field Championships while leading the Conductors to the PSAL title. He also cap- Boys Basketball tured Indoor titles in those same events and won a PSAL cross country title earlier in the school year. Girls Gymnastics Boys Gymnastics Girls Indoor Track SPRING SPORTS - Girls Soccer Boys Indoor Track Despina Psomopoulos Boys Swimming Bayside High School Boys Wrestling Michael Athy, Principal Joseph Capuana, Athletic Director Alternative Girls Basketball Joe Carrado, Coach William Stasiuk, Commissioner Bio: GOAAAAALLL!!!!!! One of the top scorers in the PSAL, Psomopoulos found the back of the net 88 times during her four years. She guided the Commodores to a remarkable 43 wins, zero losses and four ties in regular season matches. The National Honor Society member and Greek Club participant will attend Albany. “Despina is a tremendous soccer talent,” said Coach Carrado. “She has speed, skill, and determina- tion to play at a high level. Despina is great person and a wonderful teammate.” 24 13
- 14. WINTER SPORTS - Girls Basketball SPRING SPORTS - Boys Lacrosse China Crosby Joseph Mavrakis Manhattan Center High School New Dorp High School David Jose Jimenez, Principal Deirdre DeAngelis, Principal Charles Jackson, Athletic Director Richard Rucireto, Athletic Director Jaywana Bradley, Coach Brian Murphy, Coach Shavon Glover, Commissioner Larry Cantor, Commissioner Bio: In one of the more memorable games of the year, this quick, pass-first guard play helped the Lady Rams Bio: With 37 goals during the regular season, Mavrakis truly has a nose for the net. He also knows how to snap Murry Bergtraum's 73-league winning streak. But that's just one example of how much the Virginia- help his team win. Mavrakis led New Dorp to an undefeated season and its first PSAL lacrosse title. He bound guard meant to her team. Crosby led the Lady Rams all the way to Madison Square Garden her junior scored four goals in the title game overtime win over Midwood. playing singles against Fanny . . . even though season averaging 18 points and five assists per game. Although the numbers may suggest a slight drop off I have lost the last ten straight.” her senior year (13 points and four assists per game), those who watched her play knew she was a differ- ence-maker. Crosby was the only city female player selected this year to play in the McDonald's All-American game. During her basketball career under coach Bradley, China has scored 1,293 points, 521 assists, 404 rebounds and 354 steals. China accomplished the following goals: All-Borough four years, All-City three years and All-State three years. “China has made a name for herself on the national level,” Bradley said. “and made those around her better." SPRING SPORTS - Girls Outdoor Track WINTER SPORTS - Girls Basketball Kadian Dunkley Shanee Williams Clara Barton High School Murry Bergtraum High School Richard Forman, Principal Barbara Esmilla, Principal Matthew Meyerson, Athletic Director Julia Taylor, Athletic Director Hollie Denny-Bishop, Coach Ed Grezinsky, Coach Dwayne Burnett, Commissioner Shavon Glover, Commissioner Bio: Dunkley is no stranger to success on the track. At the 2009 PSAL Outdoor Track & Field Champion- Bio: It's easy to get lost in the shuffle at Bergtraum. The Lady Blazers have won 11 of the last 13 city champi- ships she finished in the top 10 in three events: 400-meter Intermediate Hurdles (2nd), 400-meter Dash onships and produced numerous all-city players. But Williams, a McDonald’s All-American finalist, still stands (6th), and 4x100 meter Relay (10th). In Cross Country she won the PSAL Individual title and finished second out as a fearless defender and sharp-shooting guard. She finished her career at Bergtraum with more than at the Mayor’s Cup. As a junior she won the 2000-meter steeplechase at the 2008 PSAL Outdoor Track 1,500 career points and was named a 1st team All-City player by the Daily News (2008, 2009) and MSG & Field Championships. She’ll continue running at South Plains College in Texas where she will also study Tri-State first-team player in 2009. Plus, Williams was known as a clutch player. She averaged 15 points and business. When not dominating the track, Dunkley enjoys volunteering with the New York Road Runners 4.5 rebounds per game this year in the regular season, only to improve her numbers in the playoffs (20 points Club and Alpha Pre-school and participating in charity events such as the Prospect Park Breast Cancer Walk. and 6.6 rebounds). "She's the best in the city as far as I'm concerned," coach Grezinsky said. "Look at her “You are unbeatable, when you are focused,” said Coach Denny-Bishop. numbers and when she gets them. She's a leader in more ways than one." 14 23
- 15. SPRING SPORTS - Boys Handball WINTER SPORTS -Boys Basketball James Liu and Brendon Yuen Lance Stephenson Midwood High School Abraham Lincoln High School David Cohen, Principal Ari Hoogenboom, Principal Mary Anne Elder, Athletic Director Renan Ebeid, Athletic Director Jennifer Rogers, Coach Dwayne Morton, Coach George Diaz, Commissioner Mel Goldstein, Commissioner Bio: Liu and Yuen teamed to win more than 96 percent of their PSAL matches over the last two seasons as Bio: Just say the name Lance and sports fans around these parts know who you are talking about. Stephen- the Hornets won consecutive city titles. The teammates won a doubles title in 2008. Liu, who will be attend- son will go down in history as one of the city’s greatest high school basketball players ever, an amazing feat ing Hunter, and Yuen, who is going to Syracuse, excelled in the medical science program at Midwood. “Bren- considering the wealth of talent that has come out of this hoops hotbed. His list of accomplishment is long, dan is one of the most consistent and hardworking players I have ever coached, while James has emerged as but his New York State scoring record of 2,946 points and unprecedented four straight city titles ranks right an exemplary team leader,” said Coach Rogers. “They have both been a tremendous asset to the Midwood at the top. His skills went unmatched, but he took his game to the next level when he matured into a true on- handball team and have played a key role in the team's overall success. James and his partner Brendan are the-court leader. The choice to select this future pro for recognition was a slam dunk. "I don't know what else the heart and soul of Midwood's team.” he can do," Lincoln coach Tiny Morton said. "He's the best I've ever had at Lincoln." WINTER SPORTS - Girls Gymnastics SPRING SPORTS - Girls Lacrosse Karen Yu Kiara VanBrackle Benjamin Cardozo High School Beach Channel High School Gerald Martori, Principal David Morris, Principal Gary Nuszer, Athletic Director Laurie Harris, Athletic Director Melissa Nachman, Coach Sam Innes, Coach Joanne Luciano, Commissioner Larry Cantor, Commissioner Bio: A team captain and Most Valuable Player in both her junior and senior year, Yu's credentials alone are worthy of recognition. She made huge contributions to this year's championship season and placed third Bio: Luckily VanBrackle is good in math as it helps her tally all the goals she scores on the lacrosse field. all-around at the NYC individual championships. But when you consider that she received the Sportsmanship She netted 25 goals during the regular season and another 11 during the playoffs, including seven against Award at State Championships, too, it's obvious Yu's character is also of championship quality. "Karen has Cardozo. Her two most important goals helped the Dolphins win the PSAL title with a 6-5 victory over No. been a vital member of the gymnastics team her entire four years at the school," her coach said. "She will be 1 seeded Tottenville. The three-year captain and member of the 2008 Empire State Games team that repre- sincerely missed by her teammates and myself because there are few student athletes that embody her moti- sented NYC will study math at Syracuse. “Kiara willingly takes on the toughest defensive assignments and vation, desire and contagious attitude." delivers,” said Coach Innes. “She prides herself on defense, yet has an undeniable nose for the goal. Kiara is a true captain and leader on and off the field.” 22 15
- 16. WINTER SPORTS - Boys Gymnastics SPRING SPORTS - Boys Golf Ben Antoine Nicholas Homan Long Island City High School McKee/Staten Island Tech William Bassell, Principal Vincent Maniscalo, Principal Penny Bellas, Athletic Director James McCarthy, Athletic Director Ken Achiron, Coach Janice Moschetta, Coach Tom Franqui, Commissioner Todd Bordonaro, Commissioner Bio: Antoine is used to being number one. His name even comes up first on his team’s alphabetical roster. But he has worked hard for his top spot. Long Island City has won the city title the last three years, while Bio: It’s hard to think of an important golf match played in the PSAL the last three years without Nicholas Ho- Antoine has taken home the individual honors (he collected 17 of 18 gold medals). His teammates voted him man on the course. The three-year captain led MSIT to three playoff appearances, including a runner-up fin- most valuable each of those championship years. His desire to be the best goes beyond gymnastics. Antoine, ish this season. As a four-year player he qualified for the PSAL Individual championships four times and New a member of Arista, has been accepted to Carnegie Mellon with a 96 average. He’s also done community York State Golf championships three times. Homan plans to attend University of Delaware. “In my twenty-five service with senior citizens and the LIC Leadership Program. “Ben knows his abilities and works to maximize years in coaching five different high school sports, I have never been as impressed by one athlete; as I am his potential,” Achiron said. “He is willing to put in the time to do the right things at practice. It's been a real with Nick Homan,” said Coach Moschetta. “Nick is the perfect example of what it really means to be a true pleasure to coach him and I look forward to his continued success.” athlete and team leader. He goes well above and beyond what is expected of him and in doing so, has been a source of great inspiration to his team for the past four years.” WINTER SPORTS - Girls Indoor Track Tessa West Benjamin Cardozo High School SPRING SPORTS - Girls Handball Gerald Martori, Principal Fanny Ruan Gary Nuszer, Athletic Director Brooklyn Technical High School Gail Emmanuel, Coach Randy Asher, Principal Dwayne Burnett, Commissioner Armando Cataldi, Athletic Director Bio: As a freshman, West took on the roll of anchor leg for the Benjamin Cardozo Millrose championship Paul Hoftyzer, Coach 4x400 relay. That was just the beginning of the road for this talented and versatile runner. She has met the qualifying standard for every city, state and national Championship from her freshman season to the present, Michael Trowbridge, Commissioner lettering all four seasons. With her individual accomplishments came team success. West led her team to a three City Championship victories. She was a member of the three-time SMR National Champions at the In- Bio: Ruan is no stranger to winning handball matches as she won 31 in the regular season and another 11 in door Nationals and led off for a championship victory in the 4x00 relay at the 2009 Indoor Nationals. West fin- the playoffs during her career. As a senior she led the Engineers to an undefeated regular season and runner- ished her final high school campaign ranked No. 2 in the PSAL in the 600 meter run and No. 3 in the 400. In up spot in the PSAL. Her dominance on the court sparked PSAL team titles in 2007 and 2008. In outside addition, West maintained an average of 3.6 and will be attending Temple University this fall on a full athletic tournaments Ruan has won numerous individual and doubles titles. When not winning handball matches she scholarship. “Tessa has been an inspiration to the team from the first day she entered Benjamin Cardozo,” her works several days a week with elementary school children, teaching them mathematics and English and as- coach said. “Her hard work, dedication and desire to achieve have enabled her to be a fine example of a good sisting them with their homework. Ruan was accepted by Stony Brook, Albany and Baruch. “She is always student athlete. She will always be remembered as one of Cardozo's best” demonstrating good sportsmanship and discipline,” said Coach Hoftyzer. “The younger players on the team look up to Fanny. Fanny is one of the most talented and disciplined athletes I have ever known. I still enjoy playing singles against Fanny . . . even though I have lost the last ten straight.” 21 16
- 17. SPRING SPORTS - Boys Baseball WINTER SPORTS - Boys Indoor Track Darryl Bradshaw Nolan Becker Sheepshead Bay High School Stuyvesant High School Reesa Levy, Principal Stanley Teitel, Principal Neil Griffenberg, Athletic Director Martha Singer, Athletic Director John Padula, Coach John Carlesi, Coach Dwayne Burnett, Commissioner Robert Pertsas, Commissioner Bio: His specialty is the 55 meters (he’s never lost a PSAL race), but he's special in more ways than one. Bio: Becker capped off a brilliant career by striking out all 18 batters he faced in a 6-inning perfect game Bradshaw is a six-time All-American and two-time PSAL MVP. Aside from dominating the 55, he was a mem- earlier this season against Manhattan Bridges. He was dominating on the mound this year striking out 68 ber of the 4x200 team that won the city championship and placed second at states and nationals. He was batters in just 32 innings. At the plate he hit .326 and drove in 21 runs. Becker’s overall performance helped named 2008 Daily News Athlete of the Year, but his resume as a student is equally impressive. Bradshaw the Hitmen win the Manhattan West Division and qualify for the playoffs. In a first round 1-0 loss to Samuel achieved honors in law, sports medicine and English and is interested in majoring in pre-law or political sci- Gompers, he struck out 11 and gave up just two hits. Becker will play baseball in the Ivy League next year at ence in college. In addition, Bradshaw has taken part in Walk for Cancer as well as toy and coat drives. Do Yale. you see what his coach sees? "Darryl is a great leader," Padula said, "and a very hard worker." SPRING SPORTS - Girls Fencing WINTER SPORTS - Boys Swimming Rupinder Garcha Michael Caputo Townsend Harris High School Curtis High School Kenneth Bonamo, Principal Aurelia Curtis, Principal Wanda Nix, Athletic Director Eric Ritzer, Athletic Director Debra Michlewitz, Coach Marie Neto, Coach Ivan Lee, Commissioner Robert Kolonkowski, Commissioner Bio: During her off-season the Haverford College-bound Garcha helped coach, manage, and train the boys’ team. In her own season she won 12 of 16 regular season bouts and led the Hawks to a Final Four appear- Bio: With Scholastic All-American honors and seven city championship gold medals, you might say Caputo's ance and a Bronze Medal. As a senior she was second at the 2009 PSAL Invitational and won the Queens high school career went swimmingly. He collected 12 Staten Island gold medals and numerous Curtis re- Division championship. The solid ‘A’ student in all disciplines is also an active participant in Amnesty Inter- cords: The 200 Yd. medley, 200 Yd. freestyle, 200 Yd. individual medley, 100 Yd. butterfly, 500 Yd. freestyle, national. “Rupinder embodies the best of a great captain,” said Coach Michlewitz. “She leads; she pushes 200 and 400 Yd. freestyle relay. It’s no wonder Curtis had a combined league record of 32-1 in his time at the herself to achieve higher goals.” school. A two-time team captain and Most Valuable Swimmer, Caputo also made a difference outside of the pool. He organized and supervised the Coach George Vinet Swim-a-Thon for Cancer, which raised $8,500. In addition, he served as volunteer swim coach for a Staten Island grammar school swim league. A four-year state qualifier, Caputo now has his sights set on swimming in college and majoring in mathematics. 20 17
- 18. WINTER SPORTS - Wrestling SPRING SPORTS Brian Traub Petrides High School Joanne Buckheit, Principal Michael Duffy, Athletic Director Girls Fencing Michael Blyth, Coach Larry Cantor, Commissioner Boys Golf Bio: Traub finished his high school career with a record of 147-18, best in New York City. He ended up Staten Girls Handball Island's all-time wins leader, earning him Staten Island Advance All-Star honors. Traub took home his third Mayor’s Cup title and his fourth PSAL individual title to close out his career in style. Plus, he went eight-for- Boys Handball eight during the regular season and three-for-three in the playoffs, as the Panthers won their second straight city title. “Brian was the ultimate competitor,” Blyth said, “who worked tirelessly to improve himself throughout his career.” Girls Lacrosse Boys Lacrosse Girls Outdoor Track WINTER SPORTS -Alternative Girls Basketball Boys Outdoor Track Simaya Harding Girls Soccer Marcy Avenue Campus Girls Varsity Softball Elaine Lindsey, Principal Kenneth Fair, Athletic Director Girls Tennis Thomas Mobilia, Coach Boys Tennis Mike Davis, Commissioner Boys Volleyball Bio: As captain of the Marcy Avenue Campus girls’ basketball team the past two years, Harding led her team to two Alternative Girls basketball championship game appearances, including a title this season. She aver- Cricket aged 18.5 points and led the league in assists per game and free throw percentage during the championship run. Harding, who has interned at Catholic charities and served as a peer counselor, hopes to transfer her success on the court to the medical field by becoming a nurse. “Simaya is a smart, hard-working student- Double Dutch athlete who has been the leader of the Marcy Avenue Campus girls basketball team for the past two years,” said Coach Mobilia. “In her junior and senior years she was the solo captain and one of the main reasons that our team has been successful the past two seasons. Simaya led the team to two straight PSAL championship games appearances - winning the championship in 2009.” 18 19