2024 September – The Mirror

The Prep Premier League Returns

September 24, 2024 by Jace Donawa

Husky soccer players huddle before a match in 2022 (Photo provided).

The prep premier league is back! Last year, Jon Moodey, Head Coach of the soccer program at Northwood, decided to join some of the other prep soccer team coaches in the east region to create a league equivalent to the New England NEPSAC leagues. The league has eight teams who play each other in a round-robin style before the playoffs towards the end of the fall semester.

Despite most teams in the league having a U17 as well as a U19 team, the league is only for the U19 teams. This allows for highly competitive games, and it gives juniors and seniors the chance for recruitment while playing against great opposition.

The league was created to allow these prep teams to be coached year-round by the same coaches, which is not allowed in the NEPSAC. Machai Davis ’25 said, “I really appreciate the league’s creation because whilst we are given the opportunity to win silverware for Northwood, we don’t have to change coaches midway through the year, which allows our whole team to grow steadily in confidence.” This is a crucial component for athletes’ success.

This year’s teams are Hoosac School, Woodstock Academy, Western Reserve Academy, Andrew Osborn Academy, Kiski School, Spire, High Mowing School, and Northwood School. This year, Andrew Osborn Academy and Spire are new additions, replacements for the fallen IHC and Phelps schools. This makes the league interesting as they are two new challenges that Northwood soccer is not sure what to expect from. Last year, Northwood did quite well in the league but unfortunately came up just short in the finals against Woodstock Academy, which has built some tension and rivalry between the two programs.

As the Prep Premier League season schedule has just been released, the Northwood boys are looking forward to hopefully having a good league campaign and going one step further than last year. “I really look forward to being able to play home games, as I enjoy playing in front of our peers, and I hope they can come out and support the boys,” Lokoah Paye ’25 said. Unfortunately, the soccer teams do not play as many home games as they would like, so they all relish the opportunity of playing in front of the home crowd.

Be sure to come out and support as the team would really appreciate it.

Filed Under: Sports

Get to know Samuel Andoh ‘28

September 24, 2024 by Gavin Kruger

Samuel Andoh ’28. Photo provided.

Samuel Andoh ’28 is a ninth grader from Ghana who came to Northwood to pursue his dream of playing professional soccer. His peers and teammates recognize him as a hardworking and humble student-athlete.

So far, he is settling into Northwood well. “I’m getting comfortable, but it is stressful. There is a lot of stuff going on.” Andoh also shared the differences between school here versus school back home. “In Ghana, we write in books, we don’t use any laptops; that is too expensive. So, I’m now getting used to using a laptop for schoolwork. I also find the teaching different. Back home, the teachers are less… patient. I find here, I can ask as many questions as I need; in Ghana, it’s not the same.”

Andoh explained to me that back home, his family doesn’t have much. “My family is passing through a lot of difficult times, and sometimes we don’t have food to eat or the resources we need. I left my family at the age of 12 to find a good education and to continue my career [in soccer].”

Samuel Andoh ’28 in the black kit. Photo provided.

I asked Samuel what soccer is like in Ghana compared to here. “It’s very different. We don’t play on turf back home. The ground is rough. When you fall, you get hurt; it’s not like here, where we get to use nice turf.”

He also shared his future aspirations: “My dream is to work hard so one day I can change my family’s lives and the community I’m from.”

He also took some time to share with me his faith in God. “The journey that I’m on is thanks to God. God held my hand from the beginning to today. I believe that with God all things are possible; he will make a way for me.”

Filed Under: Northwood Life, People

Adventure Sports Program Has Big Plans for the Fall

September 24, 2024 by Sophia DeAnzeris

Photo by Sophia Sherman ’25.

The Northwood Outing Club (NOC) has been a part of Northwood for many years. After four years under the leadership of Mr. Bobby O’Conner, NOC has been rebranded Northwood Adventure Sports Program. This change means a fun year ahead for its members.

NAS has already completed some of its fall itinerary, but there are exciting adventures ahead. “I’m pretty excited about the trips we have on the itinerary right now,” O’Connor said. “We not only have local trips in the Adirondacks, but we are also heading to Rumney, New Hampshire, for a weekend of rock climbing. The following weekend we are going to Bar Harbor, Maine, for a sea kayaking symposium called Chasing Water. Some of the best sea kayaking coaches in the country will be there.” O’Connor is elated that the students will get firsthand training from amazing coaches while paddling in a wonderful place.

O’Connor is also excited for the annual Red Rocks Nevada trip, which takes place over Thanksgiving break. “This trip is a great chance to expose students to some of the best climbing in North America. We have a large crew going this year, over ten students. It is exciting.”

Photo by Sophia Sherman ’25.

Red Rocks is a fan-favorite among many of the outdoor people at Northwood. Sophia Sherman ‘25 is a senior who has spent the last three years alongside O’Connor exploring the local Adirondack Park and traveling the world while embarking upon Adventure sports. “I am really excited for the Japan [LEAP] trip during February Break. I also cannot wait for Red Rocks; I have been to Red Rocks every year and it is always my favorite trip!”

Many returners are excited for the eventful fall ahead and new experiences. “I’m excited to go to Rumney. I have never been there. All the sport climbing protection is bolted into the rock, so we will lead climb, which is my favorite,” Colton Cushman ’25, said. Cushman also expressed his love for the annual trip out west. “This will be my third time going to Red Rocks. It’s so different from climbing back home. It’s all sandstone. Climbing every day at a new place is such an amazing experience.”

O’Connor has planned a busy yet memorable next few months for these students. They will get to experience activities and make memories that they will cherish for a lifetime.

Filed Under: Northwood Life, Sports

Preseason Training Kicks Off for Northwood Freestyle Ski Team

September 24, 2024 by Griffin Beam

As the leaves start to change colors and winter approaches, the Northwood freestyle ski team is preparing for an exciting season ahead. Today, I got some firsthand insight into their preseason training, and I had the chance to catch up with freestyle coach Jackson Deeney and Northwood freestyle athletes Clay Fuller ‘25, Aston Ferrillo ‘26, and Ivan Favreau ‘25. Their enthusiasm for the upcoming season was very strong as they shared insights into their training routines.

Aston Ferrillo ’26 showing off a tail grab 360 on the water ramps. Photo provided.

The Advantages of Water Ramps

Central to the team’s training routine is the water ramps at Lake Placid’s Olympic Jumping Complex, which the athletes all agree are important for their progression and development. Aston Ferrillo, a former ski racer who transitioned to freestyle skiing this season, expressed a particular liking of the water ramps. “What I love about them is that they mimic the snow so closely. You can keep your skis on while you jump, which really helps build muscle memory,” Ferrillo explained. This unique feature allows athletes to practice their tricks in a way that feels familiar, making the transition back to snow much smoother.

Ivan Favreau ’25 demonstrating a front flip off of the water ramps. Photo provided.

Ferrillo highlighted how this similarity to snow conditions not only boosts his confidence but also helps him perfect his technique. “When you can jump off the ramp and feel that same sensation as when you’re on the snow, it makes a world of difference,” he added, sharing how important these ramps are for dialing his jump tricks.

The Role of Trampolines

While water ramps are a standout training tool, the Olympic trampolines at the complex also have an important role in the athletes’ preseason preparations. Clay Fuller, a 4-year senior and a key figure in the revival of Northwood’s freestyle program, shared the importance of trampolining for perfecting body control and air awareness. “The trampolines allow us to focus on our flips and body positioning without the complications of skiing. It’s about getting our movements dialed in before we hit the snow,” Fuller said.

Clayton Fuller ‘25 performing a double backflip off the water ramps. Photo provided,

Fuller’s leadership has been especially important in reviving the freestyle program, which had been inactive for a couple of years before 2023. His commitment, combined with the enthusiasm of his teammates and coaches, has created a friendly and supportive environment for both seasoned athletes and newcomers.

Building Team Camaraderie

As preseason training continues, the camaraderie among the team is strong. The athletes encourage one another, celebrating improvements both big and small. This supportive atmosphere not only gives a sense of belonging but also motivates everyone to push their limits. For Ivan Favreau, who is new to freestyle skiing, it is reassuring to have experienced teammates guiding him through the learning process.

Reflecting on his progress, Ivan mentioned, “The water ramps have really helped me perfect my front flip. I never thought I’d feel this comfortable taking it to the snow so soon.” His fast development shows the effectiveness of their training facilities.

Looking Ahead

With preseason training in full swing, the Northwood freestyle team is set for an exciting season ahead. They are laying a solid foundation through innovative training methods and a strong team dynamic. With their sights set on mastering skills and pushing boundaries, these athletes are ready to transition from the water ramps to the snow, aiming for new heights in the world of freestyle skiing.

As they continue to prepare, one thing is clear: the Northwood freestyle team is not just preparing for winter; they are setting the stage for an important season of growth, camaraderie, and overall success on the slopes. The 24-25 ski season is sure to be a good one for Northwood Freestyle.

Filed Under: Northwood Life, Sports

NFL Recap: Week 2

September 22, 2024 by Gus Garvey

Week 2 is in the books. There’s a lot that happened this week. Let’s get into it.

Bills 31, Dolphins 10

I don’t know how to describe this game other than a complete annihilation of all of the Dolphins’ hopes and dreams. Miami was favored, they were coming off an incredible comeback win, they had everything in their favor! Yet they still found a way to make Josh Allen look like their daddy once again. The much-hyped defense couldn’t make a stop when it mattered, allowing James Cook to run hogwild all over them. As for the offense? Tua Turndaballova decided to make yet another appearance. 3 awful interceptions, one of them a pick-six, to give Buffalo 17 free points. And then he got injured. The good news for Miami is that despite how scary the injury looked, Tua still isn’t retiring. The bad news is that it’s his 5th concussion in as many years. I don’t know how he does it- or if he does it at all.

49ers 17, Vikings 23

All of us who doubted Sam Darnold last week and were made to eat crow had the convenient excuse of the Giants’ defense. Today, Mono Man had to face a real team- and did the exact same thing. Darnold was outstanding once again, but the show’s real star was the Vikings defense. They were suffocating and relentless, making Brock Purdy’s life a living hell and taking advantage of the absence of several key players. Niners, you may have lost in embarrassing fashion, but I’m not done yet. McCaffrey was placed on IR before the game. George Kittle went down. Nick Bosa had ankle issues. It might be a long 4-6 week stretch coming up for you guys.

Seahawks 23, Patriots 20 (OT)

Two teams entering uncharted territory: The Seahawks in their first road game without Carroll, and the Patriots in their first home game without Belichick in over 20 years. Safe to say that this game was just as entertaining as I hoped it would be. Even for their flaws, New England had the lead late with an opportunity to seal it with a field goal… and then Joey Slye channeled Chad Ryland last year by pushing the kick wide and to the left. The Seahawks are the kind of team that will make you pay for such errors. They don’t flip the game but do enough to tie the game and send it to overtime- and then the offense did the rest as they won on a walk-off field goal. Patriots, you may have lost but take pride in the fact that nobody thought you would look good this year. Despite Backup Brisket and the passing attack needing some work, their ground game is legit. Keep it up.

Giants 18, Commanders 21

In what might be a preview for a Super Tank Bowl in about 2 months’ time, the Giants and Commies meet in the house that pain and failure built for an uninspiring game of football. If there’s any solace to this matchup, at least we get to see the rookies instead of last year where there was no talent on either side. Jaden Daniels looks good so far. Despite Washington’s inability to convert in the red zone (yet again), they did enough to set up new kicker Austin Seibert for 7 clutch field goals. Giants, you may have scored touchdowns this week, but the W’s still elude you. Like I said last week, time to sharpen that guillotine.

Chargers 26, Panthers 3

Things are looking dire in Charlotte. After last week’s alleyway mugging at the hands of New Orleans, the Panthers return for their home opener to a crowd of… mostly Charger fans. This is the first time in about 8 years that Charger fans have outnumbered those of the opposition, home or away. I don’t know what does if that doesn’t tell you how apathetic Carolina has gotten. As for the game itself, predictable events played out. LA had their way with that trash defense all game, but the Panthers’ main concern should be Bryce Young. He has looked horrible. He’s skittish in the pocket, he’s making insanely questionable choices with the ball, and his presence is so tiny on the field you’d confuse him with Tyrion Lannister. They’re 0-17. Watch now; it’s that bad. Chargers, enjoy your free win to 2-0. Send Ryan Poles a fruit basket while you’re at it.

Saints 44, Cowboys 19

HOW ‘BOUT THEM COWBOYS!!!!!! It’s one thing when the Saints hang 40+ on Carolina, but when they do it to Dem Boys? It turns a lot of heads. Dallas was completely dominated in their home opener on all sides of the ball. Their offense was passable until Dak started getting desperate in the 2nd half, forcing it into triple coverage. As for the defense? Would you seriously call whatever they did on Sunday “defending”? They just stood there for the most part and let the Saints’ wideouts run right by them, apart from a fluke interception in garbage time. They didn’t keep them off the board until the 4th quarter. They were annihilated today by Derek Carr, of all quarterbacks, slinging it like he’s back in his 2016 prime. Saints, we thank you for this glorious bounty of getting to laugh at the Cowboys. To them, it’s just a side effect of a legit statement win.

Colts 10, Packers 16

Anthony Richardson is a man of many talents. Consistency is apparently not one of them. Last week showcased his tremendous upside; Sunday exposed his flaws. A-Rich was god awful. Green Bay didn’t even do anything special; they had one good drive in the 1st quarter and then sat back and played conservatively for the rest of the game. Despite a late comeback effort, it wasn’t enough. Green Bay wins and avoids the 0-2 death pit that the Colts now find themselves in.

Browns 18, Jaguars 13

The Whack-a-Dirtbag Challenge is back! Let’s see what glorious bounty the Jags defense gave us today! Dirtbag entered Sunday’s game with 17 whacks and 2 turnovers. The Jags didn’t get him as hard as Dallas did last week, but they still sacked him twice and hit him 6 more times, despite forcing no turnovers. This brings Dirtbag’s season tally to 25 whacks and 2 turnovers. Surely with this defensive effort, the Jags must have won, right? Surely in the grand opening of TrEverBank Field, the namesake would have done something, right? He didn’t? The Jags offense sucks even more than Dirtbag? Oh, joy. Don’t worry, though, Jacksonville, because you get the Bills next week. Enjoy getting massacred in primetime in front of the Mafia.

Jets 24, Titans 17

It’s time for everyone’s favorite game: Who the hell wants to win? It certainly isn’t these two poverty franchises whose wasted potential is only matched by their incompetence. In the Jets’ case, it’s a heinous instance of playing down to their competition. As for the Titans, they’re just a bad team. Example A was Will Levis, who committed his Boneheaded Turnover of the Week in the form of a desperate lateral to his checkdown option. On 3rd and short in the red zone. In the 2nd quarter. When they were up by 7. This is the kind of incompetence you don’t even see in Pop Warner, yet Levis is out here playing like his hands are lathered in mayonnaise. It’s enough to do the unthinkable: Give the Jets hope. Despite a slow start, the offense woke up in the 2nd half to do just enough to hold off Tennessee. They’ve looked incredibly fraudulent so far, but a win is a win, I guess… right?

Buccaneers 20, Lions 16

This game was a defensive struggle. It came down to which team made the fewest mistakes. And today, that team was Tampa Bay. Despite Aiden Hutchinson having a career day, the Bucs were able to capitalize on Detroit’s miscues in the red zone to take the lead late and hang on. Tampa Bay looks legit, but is it sustainable? That’s a question for down the road. Detroit looks good so far, but this is a reminder that they’re not invincible.

Raiders 26, Ravens 23

The Ravens lost by a toe last week at Kansas City. They will be out for blood in their home opener. Luckily, the pipsqueak entering their arena is just the remedy: a Raiders team that can’t score points to save their lives. Despite seemingly everything being in their favor, the Ravens played down to their competition… at least for three quarters. They managed to pull away in the 4th, taking a 10-point lead. This is when Baltimore decided to exhibit their most dire trait of all… the choke. The Ravens proceeded to blow said 10-point lead. Gardner Minshew and the ground game working them as Baltimore gave up yards ad nauseum to give the Raiders both the lead and, eventually, the win. Glad to see their choking gene hasn’t gotten out of the system yet. Enjoy being 0-2.

Rams 10, Cardinals 41

Rams, allow me to introduce you to Marvin Harrison Jr. He will carve up your defense like a frog on a dissection tray as Midget Man throws dimes to him all game. Even your offense stopped producing to gape in awe at his performance. The Cardinals look good, but is this sustainable? That question will be answered soon. LA, you looked horrible, and the injuries don’t help you either. Figure it out.

Bengals 25, Chiefs 26

Look at this, the Bungles are bucking their early-season stereotype and have a late lead against the Kansas City Chiefs. Pat Pick Mablowmes made yet another appearance today, throwing 2 interceptions and furthering his case for the most overrated quarterback in the league. Down by 2, the Chiefs are down to a 4th and 16 from their own 45-yard line. This is where the Chiefs’ MVP over the past few years comes back to help them: zebras. Despite the pass landing incomplete, the refs called a pass interference penalty on Cincinnati. Here’s my take on that call: game-changing penalties like that one on a 4th and 16 shouldn’t be called unless they are clear, egregious penalties. This one was borderline at best, and they shouldn’t have called it in that situation. They were both going for the ball; the contact was incidental and didn’t restrict either receiver’s arms. In addition, the ref that called it waited for the pass to fall incomplete before he even reached for his flag! That flag put the Chiefs into field goal range for Harrison Butker to end the game. Cincinnati gets royally screwed over on their way to their 3rd 0-2 start in as many years. Stuff like this is why some people believe the league is rigged. Embarrassing.

For further analysis, we go to a smug bandwagon Chiefs fan: Henry Kress ‘26.

“I love the refs. Pat Mahomes is the GOAT.” – Henry Kress ‘25

Steelers 13, Broncos 6

We need a special guest to break it down for such a special game. We go now to a corresponding Yinzer and 2024 Northwood graduate: Sam Rudy.

“What a boring game. Steelers vs. Steelers, refs and Broncos. I thought the Steelers played a decent first half. They had a lights-out defense, were moving the ball offensively, and finally had a few plays that showed some sparks. I think they fell asleep in the second half, along with the Broncos finally starting to step up. Bo Nix is not the Broncos’ solution. He turns the ball over too much, although he does show some speed and playmaking ability. All in all, the Steelers got the job done, but this game should have been at least 28-6.” -Sam Rudy ‘24

Bears 13, Texans 19

Two young quarterbacks each making their first career appearances on Sunday Night Football. The stage was set for a spectacle. We did indeed get a spectacle- from the defenses. Despite Stroud and Williams playing very good football for stretches throughout the game, the defenses stole the show on numerous occasions by stuffing everything in sight. In the end, the Texans did just enough on offense to win, while the Bears couldn’t get anything going until the 2nd half. Houston, you’ve looked incredibly sloppy so far, but you’re 2-0 and seem to be in control of your division. Keep it going.

Falcons 22, Eagles 21

Kirk Cousins in primetime: it’s a narrative like no other. Despite Cousins doing typical Cousins things early in the game, the Eagles played heinously down to their competition, keeping Atlanta in the game for way too long. The Falcons even had a lead deep into the 2nd half due to the Eagles’ defense forgetting how to tackle yet again. It’s fine, though: Philadelphia was able to tush push their way into the end zone to take a 3-point lead. Better yet, they stuffed the Falcons on 4th down and are driving into the red zone and can knee the ball out to end the game with another first down. They are down to a 3rd and 3- and then Saquon drops a routine screen pass. Cue the field goal to increase the lead to 6. Kirk Cousins has a history of sucking in primetime, particularly on Monday Night Football. Philly is even a team over .500, so double the curse on Cousins. This kind of situation for him is usually filled with pain and misery for the fans whatever team he is on. You would be correct, that drive did lead to pain and misery- for Eagles fans. Perc Thuggins methodically picks their defense apart as Drake London has his first signature game with several key catches. The Falcons take a 1-point lead, followed by a Hurts interception to close it out. Eagles, you had the division in the palm of your hands, and you let it slip away. Remember this one if you end up as a wildcard in January.

Laughingstock of the Week

And now, esteemed ladies and gentlemen, it is time for the Laughingstock-of-the-week. This week didn’t feature much in the NFL, but definitely did in the college ranks. This week’s Laughingstock is Northwestern State, for their travesty of a game against Southern Alabama. They got blown out of the water 87-10. It got so bad that both coaches met after the 3rd quarter and agreed to play a 6 minute 4th in order to end the game quicker. That’s the closest thing to a mercy rule you can get in College Football, and it just happened to these guys. Contract the program.

Filed Under: Sports Tagged With: GusOnNFL

Travel to Uganda and Japan Highlight New LEAP Offerings

September 18, 2024 by Gavin Kruger

The new school year is upon us. Our unique lifestyle at school undergoes constant changes throughout the year, but Northwood doesn’t just look to change things; the community also looks to make additions. Some notable additions this year are the LEAP program’s two newest offerings.

LEAP is a one-of-a-kind program in which students get to experience going somewhere in the world or learning a new skill. LEAP offerings stay mostly the same, with many courses being around for years. There are, however, usually one or two unique course offerings that change every year. This year, those two new options are a skiing and cultural trip to Japan, designed by senior Gus Garvey ‘25; and a trip to Uganda where students will walk with gorillas.

The first of the two new courses is a trip to Japan, where students will get to ski while experiencing Japanese culture. What makes this LEAP so interesting is that it was designed by a student—senior Gus Garvey. Last year, Gus decided to create this course as his PEAK Pathway. PEAK Pathways is a year-long project where students learn about topics they are passionate about, then build a project around those interests. Gus had a passion for creating this trip as he is of Japanese descent and loves skiing. He shared, “This LEAP will be half skiing, half cultural. Students will get to experience Japanese culture from a variety of different perspectives—from the slopes of rural Nagano to the bustling melting pot of Tokyo.” He also shared his excitement to educate his fellow students as part of the trip: “In addition to having an excuse to go to one of my favorite places on earth, I also hope to provide valuable insight and guidance to the rest of the group due to my experience there.”

The second new LEAP is a trip to Uganda. This is possible because of an alumni connection with Lawrence (’93) and Ndhego Zikusoka ‘24. Lawrence Zikusoka’s wife, Gladys, is a world-renowned health and research expert in Uganda. Northwood decided to use this connection and transform it into an opportunity. This LEAP will be led by Ms. Fagan and Mr. Spear.

“We’re going to fly to Entebbe, a city in Uganda. And then, we are going to drive halfway across the country to spend a night in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where we will go on a game drive and meet employees of Dr Gladys’s non-profit health organization,” Fagan said. This trip will focus on discovering the relationship between humans and apes; specifically, how viruses can be transmitted from humans to apes and vice versa. “We will also have a day where we trek in the jungle and follow a troop of gorillas. This is something that you need a permit for, so it’s a really cool and unique opportunity,” said Ms. Fagan.

Students will begin signing up for LEAP courses in the coming weeks.

Filed Under: Northwood Life, Top Story

Soccer Teams Poised for a Strong Season

September 17, 2024 by Griffin Beam

As the new soccer season kicks off at Northwood, both the U17 and U19 sides are setting the stage for an exciting year. With a mix of fresh talent and seasoned coaching, there is a ton of anticipation around the program’s prospects.

Transition and Strategy

Coach Kelvin Martinez, who has moved over from working with the older U19 squad to lead the younger U17 team, shared some insight on this transition. “The U17s have been adapting well to the standards we set,” he explained. “The program serves as a strong feeder system, preparing these players for the U19 level and beyond. It is about building a solid foundation for their future in college or professional soccer.”

U17 Coach Kelvin Martinez. Photo: Mr. MIchael Aldridge.

U19 Coach Jose Coss. Photo: Mr. MIchael Aldridge.

On the other side of the program, Coach Jose Coss has moved from the U17s to the U19s, a move which was influenced by his recent experience with the USL2 team. USL2 is the top pre-professional league in the UNited States. “Coaching the L2 team last summer gave me valuable insight into working with older players. Many of them are now part of the U19 squad, so it makes sense to continue working with players I already know,” Coss explained.

Season Outlook

Both coaches are optimistic about the upcoming season. Martinez highlighted the U17s’ progress, saying, “We have seen a great start. Our core is very experienced, and this year’s freshman class is the biggest in our program’s history. They are technically strong and hardworking. For example, our recent game against Taft was tied 0-0 for an hour, showing promising signs for the season ahead.”

Coss shared this great feeling for the U19s, stating the importance of team culture. “Early in the season, our focus is on developing healthy and professional habits. We are working on teamwork and balancing academics with behavior. There is a lot of talent, and we are aiming to build chemistry among new and returning players. Finding the right positions and dynamics for each player is key.”

Upcoming Highlights

Northwood students have a couple of exciting dates to mark on their calendars. For the U17s, major local games and tournaments are upcoming, with a special focus on facing high-level prep schools. These matches are designed to challenge the players and prepare them for the U19 level.

The U19s will be spotlighted on October 5th during Family Weekend. They will face off against Woodstock, a finalist in the prep league, in what will be a thrilling league game. “This match is a significant event for us,” said Coss. “We’re looking forward to strong support from the Northwood community.”

With a season full of potential and key games ahead, both the U17 and U19 teams at Northwood are geared up for an exciting and productive year. Keep an eye on these teams as they make their mark on the field.

Filed Under: Northwood Life, Sports

Phone Use Now Prohibited in Dining Room

September 17, 2024 by Sophia DeAnzeris

As technology develops and phones negatively impact young students worldwide, Northwood has adopted a new policy to help reverse this trend. At the start of 2024-2025, the Northwood Administrative Team implemented a new rule: no phones in the dining hall during mealtimes. The main reason behind this was to get kids to interact with each other more instead of being glued to their phones at important times of the day.

Students on their phones in the living room in the spring of 2024. Photo: Mr. John Spear.

Trevor Gilligan, 03’, who is on the Administration Team as well as the Athletic Director and Head Girls Hockey Coach, believes that this change will turn into a habit and not just a rule amongst students and faculty around campus. “I hope this will be more of a communal time eating together, seeing how everyone’s day is going, getting to know people as opposed to being locked into a device.” He hopes students will begin to get excited about mealtimes as it turns into a place where more communication takes place.

Students are talking about this new development at Northwood, and there has been an adjustment to the environment in the dining hall. Drew Donatello ‘25, is a fifth-year student who has witnessed many changes in the school over the past five years. Playing on the boy’s hockey team means spending most of his mealtime surrounded by his teammates. He says this policy has positively impacted the culture around the tables.

When asked how this has changed the culture compared to his previous four years at Northwood, he said, “I feel no phones in the dining hall has brought a higher level of face-to-face. We’re so attached to our phones these days that it gives you a sigh of relief once you walk into the dining hall to eat a meal knowing everyone is going to be listening, everyone is going to be talking since there is no other choice than to just sit there in silence. Many people just choose to talk and converse now more than ever.”

This new rule initially surprised the community but has proven successful within the first week of school. The new student population also feels strongly about this topic. “It’s been good to take in the new environment and live in the moment. It’s a privilege to be here, enjoy it,” said new senior and hockey player Rylie Griffiths, ‘25.

It seems that the administration team has put in place the best plans to make the school environment better for all students.

Filed Under: Northwood Life, Top Story

A Night to Remember: First Formal Dinner of the Year

September 17, 2024 by Li Feng

Just over a week into the new school year, Northwood has celebrated one of its cherished traditions: the first formal dinner night. This event marked the start of the year with elegance, camaraderie, and a sense of unity that brought the entire school community together in a uniquely memorable way.

Formal dinner night is more than just a meal—it is an experience. Students upgraded their usual school dress code to formal attire, stepping into an atmosphere that combined the luxurious feel of fine dining with the warm familiarity of school life. Students dressed up for the special occasion and had the chance to socialize with peers and staff members they might not normally interact with.

Photos by Ms. Ingrid Van Slyke.

As students entered the beautifully arranged dining hall, its transformation was plain to see. The tables were elegantly set, and excitement was palpable as students anticipated the evening ahead. The dinner menu was a delightful change from the usual meal offerings, featuring a variety of dishes: from fresh seafood to perfectly served steaks, along with rich desserts. It was a refreshing break from routine, offering the community a chance to savor something special.

But the night was not just about dressing up and enjoying delicious food—it was about celebration and bonding as a community. After dinner, the evening took on a new and lively twist for a friendly yet highly competitive dodgeball tournament between dorms. This surprise addition to the night sparked laughter, friendly rivalries, and plenty of team spirit as students battled it out for dorm pride. The energy from the tournament brought everyone together in a playful, spirited way, adding an element of fun and excitement to the formality of the dinner.

This first formal dinner set a positive tone for the year ahead, reminding the school of the importance of gathering, the joy of shared experiences, and the thrill of friendly competition. There will be many more formal dinners, but this one, the first of the year, has already set the standard for what is to come. The evening was a celebration of Northwood’s community: one that values tradition, connection, and a delicious meal shared among friends.

Filed Under: Northwood Life

Prep Hockey Team: Season Preview

September 17, 2024 by Michael Peluso

The Northwood Prep hockey team officially kicks off their season in Rochester on September 13^th. They have three games of tournament play and a championship game on Sunday if all goes well.

The annual blue vs white intrasquad scrimmages were a success this year, with lots of new players emerging as potential stars for the team. The prep team had only six returning athletes who played the full season with the team last year and four players have moved up from the varsity team. This opens lots of space for the new recruits to come in and make an impact right away.

The Prep team takes the ice during a 2022 game at the Olympic Center (Photo: Mr. Michael Aldridge).

The team has pulled in recruits from many successful programs around the country. Three kids are from the L.A. Jr Kings 16U team which made the national championship last year. One comes from Long Island Gulls 16U which won the national championship. Also, players from South Kent Selects, Pittsburgh Pens Elite, Minnesota High School and many other notable programs have made the jump to Northwood this year.

When veteran Will Schneid was asked to name a specific newcomer who may have a breakout this year, he said, “All the new guys look really good right now. Any one of them can step up and have a big year.” Schneid also mentioned, “The new guys are great kids; the team has clicked really well early, which is a good sign.”

I also asked Coach Mallaro and Will Schneid about their goals for the year, and they had one common goal: win the Prep Hockey Conference. Last year, Northwood was first seed in their division and narrowly lost in the championship, 2-1 to Shattuck St. Mary’s. Schneid said, “That game left a sour taste in our mouths and makes us returners want to win the PHC that much more.”

Last year, Northwood attracted attention from Division One colleges and junior teams nationwide. The prep team had three Division One commits last year and has started the year with one this season, Peter Morris (2007). The Lake Superior State commit is a strong power forward from New Jersey.

The team hopes to have even more Division One commitments than the previous year. “Last year, we did a good job moving kids on to different places, and I think we can do a better job moving kids on this year,” Coach Mallaro said when asked about any other goals for the year.

The Prep team has high standards to live up to and it will not be easy to replicate the season they had last year. However, the team leaders seem confident that they can have another great season with the new group of guys. The Huskies are going to strive to hit 40 wins again, which is a goal on their way to a PHC championship.