TheWWolverineolverineTh e Walker SchoolTh e Walker School

NewsNews StudentsStudents RoboticsRobotics SportsSports

— MarchMarch 20132013 —Volume XIV Issue 5Volume XIV Issue 5

WALKER RELEASES NEWWALKER RELEASES NEW

EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN ON PAGE 2ON PAGE 2

SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY A SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY A POTENTIAL AT WALKERPOTENTIAL AT WALKER

ON PAGE 4ON PAGE 4

WALKER HOSTS VEXWALKER HOSTS VEXROBOTICS COMPETITIONROBOTICS COMPETITION

ON PAGE 7ON PAGE 7

ATLANTA BRAVES ADDATLANTA BRAVES ADD

YOUNG TALENT TO ROSTERYOUNG TALENT TO ROSTER

ON PAGE 9ON PAGE 9

2

The Wolverine, founded in 1999, is the newspaper of The Walker School, 700 Cobb Parkway North, Marietta, Georgia 30062. Tele-phone: (770) 427 - 2689. E-mail: wolverine@thewalkerschool.org The Wolverine is published sev-en times during the school year by the members of the student body. Guest articles and letters to the editor may be submitted. Submis-sions must include the writer’s name and be hand-delivered or emailed. The meaning of any submission will not be altered, but The Wolverine reserves the right to edit for coherence. Rights are also reserved to postpone or with-old publication any letter, article, or advertisement submitted. Fi-nal decision on publication rests with the Editor-In-Chief in con-sultation with the entire Editorial Board and the Journalism Adviser. Guest articles and letters to the editor do not necessarily represent the opinions of the Walker School, its administration, or employees. Copyright authority to the material (articles, graphics, etc.) contained in this publication is strictly held under reserve by the Editorial Board. Any reproduc-tion or alteration without writ-ten consent is strictly prohibited. The staff of The Wolverine is comprised of members of the Upper School Journalism Class. The Wolverine serves as a voice for the Walker Community.

(wolverine@thewalkerschool.org)

Visit us online at TWSWolverine.com

The Wolverine

Journalism Adviser:Kaitlyn Ranney

2012-2013 Staff

Editor-In-Chief: Coleman Hedden. ‘14

Managing Editor:Travis King, ‘14

Assistant Editors:Mary Grace Walsh, ‘14Meredith Wright, ‘13

Reporters:Alex Brack, ‘15Victoria Hudson, ‘14Stephen Oweida, ‘14

TheWolverineWalker Releases New

Emergency Operations PlanBY Travis King

On Friday, February 22, every building across Walker’s campus underwent a hard lockdown drill. This drill served as the one of the fi rst tests of the school’s newly-created Emergency Operations Plan (EOP). This new plan, a joint effort between the Facilities, Security, and Communications departments, has been in development since last spring, and consists of both a 45-page detailed response guide as well as a quick-reference guide distributed to all faculty and staff. The quick-reference guide contains checklists and instructions for almost every kind of school emergency, including a severe allergic reaction, a fi re, severe weather, a chemical spill, an armed intruder, a bomb threat, and even an earthquake. The February 22 drill was treated as a “hard lockdown,” which would mean that an armed intruder is inside a building somewhere on campus. In a hard lockdown, faculty, staff, and students are to enter the nearest classroom or offi ce, lock the doors, cover the windows, and turn off the lights. Teachers are responsible for taking attendance and noting any missing students. The guide also lists what to do when there is an active shooter in the vicinity: fi rst, try to evacuate. If there is no easy or safe escape route, hide in an area out of the shooter’s view and attempt to block entry into the hiding place. Though the recent events at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown, Conn. were not responsible for the creation of this guide, they served as a wake-up call and forced the administration to take a closer look at the new procedures. Director of Facilities Jackie Porubiansky said, “We have been working on this emergency plan for a while, and it’s been at the top of our list. In response to Sandy Hook, we have sought out some security specialists, including the Marietta SWAT team, the Georgia State Patrol, and the Southern Poly Security Chief. We’re just trying to seek out additional information to

make sure we’re doing the best that we can.” Since the shooting took place in an elementary school, it truly struck close to home for both the Preschool as well as the Lower School. Preschool Principal Gail Doss said, “As the school continues to examine safety, we were given an opportunity to test the current emergency system. I’m pleased to report that all went well…our little ones were great…our teachers were terrifi c…not one child seemed afraid!” In response to the incident, the Preschool has revamped its visitor sign-in procedures (all visitors must check in and receive a name tag, much like in the main building), a new lock has been installed on the playground gate, and carpool is being monitored more closely. Lower School Principal Megan Howard said, “First, our Lower

School students’ safety is our fi rst priority. So, after the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School, we reaffi rmed this priority by supporting our children, faculty, and families in unique and specifi c ways and also by reassessing our building’s security – both the

strengths as well as the weaknesses.I met with concerned parents andalso heard from parents who weregrateful for all that we already had in place at Walker. More specifi cally,we have made some changes thatwe have communicated or will communicate to parents aboutexterior doors, check-in and check-out policies, and safety drills. As awhole school, additional securitymeasures have been put in placethat makes our campus even moresecure.” The majority of the new securitymeasures deal with policies andprocedures, but there will beseveral visible changes throughoutthe school as well. The main doors, which have previously remained unlocked during the day, will belocked and an intercom installed to verify visitors. All visitors must sign in with the front desk, and facultyand staff have been instructed to send anyone not wearing a badge to the front desk to check in. Additionally, phones and speakersare being installed throughout allbuildings, allowing for everyone in every building to hear any importantannouncements. Though physical securityupgrades are crucial, they proveuseless without the support ofthe Walker community. Howard said, “The most effective piece of any security plan is careful andthoughtful people. The responseof the teachers and administratorsat Sandy Hook was tremendousunder unimaginable pressure.Having procedures in place – andconsistently re-evaluating thosemethods – is important, but it’snot as important as making sureeveryone in the building is aware ofthose procedures and confi dent toact in case of an emergency.”

Online Extra: Visit TWSWolverine.com to view a complete list of the latest security upgrades, as well asthe most recent communications to the Walker community regardingthe new security procedures.

Three Lower School students comfortably walk arm-in-arm knowing

the campus is safe.

Photo Courtesy of Jason Jones

March 2013 3

Five Words for WalkerBY Stephen Oweida Most Walker students can agree that our school is different from any other school. To fi nd out how unique it truly is, a school-wide survey was administered so that the students could choose what fi ve traits make Walker such a wondrous place. On the survey sheet were a multitude of words that could possibly defi ne Walker, and students were were told to circle fi ve. After the votes were counted, the fi ve words that were unanimously chosen are respect, community, leadership, honor, and dedication. Respect, not only to faculty and staff members, but to one another as students, is a key trait that Walker students posses. By simply walking down the hallway, one can

see that the lockers have no locks on them, and students can leave their backpack wherever they want without fear of anything being stolen. This shows that Walker students have respect for each other’s personal belongings. When students respect each other, they create a community that fl ourishes and thrives. Referring to Walker’s diverse community, junior Jeff Wallace said, “with so many different clubs to join, its hard not to be an active member of the Walker family.” As for leadership, most on campus, including freshman Luke Hathaway, see the seniors as leaders not only in grade ranking but among the student body. Hathaway said, “The seniors lead the way for our

school, and when they get excited for school events, they get the whole school pumped up as well.” Another key word chosen to describe Walker is honor. Walker high school students act honorable both in and out of the classroom which helps support our school. We even have an Honor Code which stipulates that all Walker students must act honorably. We honor our school by following the rules and trying to be the best students that we can be. The fi nal word the represents Walker is the most important. What good are any of these traits if we do not possess dedication? The dedication to these traits ensures that these traits can be found in

our student body for as long asWalker is around. Walker alumni from the Class of 2010 John Langmack said, “I was dedicated tomy responsibilities as a student… and to honoring my community. This not only improved my high school life, but it also prepared mefor how I should act in college. Walker’s unique environmentcreates opportunities for students to be active members in a communitywhich will benefi t them in the future.” When the entire schoolcan agree on the traits respect, community, leadership, honor, anddedication, it shows the Wonder ofWalker, and that we are more than an average private school.

New Classes for 2013-2014

4 TheWolverine

Social Media Policy a Potential at Walker

BY Mary Grace Walsh

With recent talk concerning social networking at school, students and faculty are questioning whether Walker should enforce a policy over the online profi les of students. Other ideas have included the concept of student-led groups for discussion about social media etiquette. With online conversation affecting the way students feel in the Walker community, does the faculty have the responsibility to keep track of what is said online? Dean of Students Newton McCurdy discussed his views on how social networking is used. He believes the administration has the right to interfere if bullying or harassment is occurring between Walker students. McCurdy said, “That’s what a policy is for, not so much of what you can and cannot post. It’s more of when it infringes upon other students. It’s less content and more harassment and bullying.” McCurdy also pointed out that some posts can refl ect negatively on the school. “There have been instances where someone posted something on Twitter and mentioned or ‘hash-tagged’ ‘The Walker School.’ So therefore, if someone is looking at ‘The Walker School’ then they would see that. We would talk to the person and tell them why that’s inappropriate.” Upper School English Teacher Matt Eisenman agrees that Walker should have an established standard for social networking, because students on and off campus use Twitter and Facebook. “I think we need a reasonable standard established by students, faculty, and administration. Similar to the Honor Code, where enforcing a policy isn’t the issue, but it’s about setting an acceptable community standard,” Eisenman said, “With technology, the difference between off campus and on campus is non-existent. Unlike alcohol, for instance, where you’re underage and on campus there are other consequences; it’s a tangible thing. Twitter and

Facebook can be on and off campus, and things said at home will impact the way people feel in the community during the school day.” Communications Associate Meghan Stauts believes that student-led groups will be the most effi cient way of teaching students to use social networking sites wisely. “I think that’s a more constructive way to reach people. I fi nd that people react better when they’re not being talked at; they’re being talked with,” said Stauts. “I would hope that it would be more of a collaborative effort if students were talking to other students. If I put myself in the shoes of a high school student, I would prefer student-led groups as oppose to a faculty member coming in and saying ‘don’t use this and don’t do this.’”Stauts believes social networking sites can be used positively, and small groups would allow students to discuss the way they use these sites and how they can be used to their advantage. “I think we’re capable of making social networking a more positive thing in our community,” said Stauts. “I think social media is a great tool, and I will say that it can be used in excellent ways for students. I don’t think you shouldn’t use it, because when they’re used correctly, they can be a great tool for research or networking with people.” She emphasizes that as students enter the job world or go to college, social media becomes less about ‘sub-tweeting’ and more about making connections with others. “I think once we can move away from

having that image of social media, we can move more towards using it as a tool in 2013 to accomplish things. I think that would be a huge change,” said Stauts. Some students believe that administration and teachers spend time looking through their online profi les, but that isn’t necessarily true. “We care about the student,” McCurdy said. “I do not have a thousand hours in my day. I have Facebook and Twitter but I don’t sit there and police students’ profi les. When it comes to our attention, then we investigate and see to what level we need to be involved.” According to Walker’s administration, situations have been and will be handled on a case-by-case basis.Students aren’t always on board with the idea of a policy. Junior Riley Kole said, “It’s not their place because we have freedom of speech. I understand if it’s about school or a teacher, but other than that, we should be able to do what we want.” Junior Abisola Ologunja agreed and said, “It’s our personal

lives, and I don’t think the schoolhas the right to look at the stuff wepost, even though we’re sharing itwith our friends. It’s some thingswe may not want to share with ourteachers.” The issue of appropriate socialnetworking has been a topicdiscussed throughout differentfacets of the school for a while.Stauts said, “It’s been consideredin the past. I have been here fora year and it was something thatwas brought up. In my time here,there have been some instanceswhen we had to take action. It’scertainly something that parentsare more interested in.” Eisenmansaid, “It’s been something that’sbeen a longer process. Sometimeswe expect students to know thingsthat we haven’t said very clearly. Ithink part of this is not necessarilyto set new rules, but to articulatemore clearly the things that alreadyexist in the community standardsand be specifi c with the varioustechnologies that are out there.”

March 2013 5

Day in the Life of a Lower Schooler

BY Meredith Wright

The Walker Lower School is a colorful and fun-fi lled building. There is artwork displayed all along the walls, and many Lower School students can typically be found huffi ng and puffi ng around the track in the gym. Throughout the course of a school day, the students’ minds are challenged and they are constantly learning new things. “Learning experiences embedded within the school day for our fi rst through fi fth grade students are quite impressive,” said Lower School Principal Megan Howard. The subjects that each grade studies differ based on

diffi culty, and the curriculum offers many opportunities to explore outside of what is traditionally taught. The students also get to take mental breaks and move around with activities like P.E. and recess. Fifth grader Gabrielle Todd said recess is the favorite part of her day. “I get to hang out with all my friends,” she said. In the fi fth grade, it’s important to prepare students for their next step to middle school. Jonathan Poteet, also a fi fth grader, looks forward to things like having more freedom and getting to be clubs when he is in Middle School. The Lower School tries to maintain

connections between the other divisions (Middle School and Upper School) through many different activities. A variety of sports teams, like Middle School Football, include Lower School students as a part of their roster. Many of the older students in the Lower School participate as reading buddies to the younger students, and a dance after school allowed all grades to boogie down and get to know each other. Most recently, the second graders were involved in a part of Keep Cobb Beautiful, learning about the structure of a tree while also planting one of their own to give back. The Lower School has also increased the use of technology in the classroom. The technology classes that are taught can build connections and bridge gaps for other subjects. Lower School Assistant Principal Liz Meadows explained, “By accessing

art, performances and eventsthrough the Internet, technologyprovides students virtual aesthetic encounters which means students have more opportunities to extendlessons and express themselves.”Lower School Principal MeganHoward is a new face to the Walker School this year. Before Howardbecame principal, Meadows workedas principal to carry the LowerSchool forward. Between two newprincipals, new programs and ideashave also arrived. For example,last year, Meadows created “aschool schedule that increased deep learning for students,” saidHoward. Not only did this kind ofschedule benefi t the students, italso increased the benefi ts for theteachers. Now anywhere insidethe school, the enthusiasm can beseen from both the students andthe teachers. “The teachers are allreally nice,” said fi fth grader Jake Tasman. Regardless of the grade, everystudent has an exciting and creative day full of learning. Every scheduleis different. “It totally depends on the day,” said Howard. “I can sayone thing: it’s full of a lot of action, a lot of learning, and the opportunityto have some fun along the way, too!”

Second Graders look on as their tree is planted in the garden to help Keep Cobb Beautiful

Photo Courtesy of Meredith Wright

l e t s r

l c t . d r t , s s s n s s s I y e y s s

6 TheWolverine

Man on the StreetMan on the StreetWhat is your ideal Prom venue?What is your ideal Prom venue?

“Dubai, United Arab Emirates.”

- Mitchell Boylan, ‘13

“Disney World.”

- Nissa Johnson, ‘14

“The beach.”

- Nicolette Paglioni, ‘15

“Room 312. Kennerson’s Room.”

- Blake Whiting, ‘16

March 2013 7

Dear Daisy...Dear Daisy, I am not sure who to ask to prom. Is it ok for an upperclassman to ask an underclassman? Will seniors be upset? I don’t want to set my date up to be harassed all night, but I think I would have fun if I asked them! What should I do?!

Sincerely, Cautious

It’s your prom, not theirs! You shouldn’t hesitate to ask someone you know you’ll have fun with. I don’t think people will harass your date just because they’re an underclassman. Freshmen and sophomores can go to prom if an upperclassman asks them. Do what makes you happy! If that means asking someone who isn’t in your grade, than who cares what other people say?

Dear Daisy, Is it okay for a girl to ask a boy to prom? I am tired of waiting and I just want to get a date!

Sincerely, Taking My Dog To Prom

Of course! It’s always fun for girls to be asked by a boy, but boys can also be super shy. There’s also the expectation that boys will ask girls, but that doesn’t mean it’s a rule. If there’s a special someone that you’re sick of waiting around for, ask them! That kind of confi dence is something you should be proud of. I mean, how could they say no?

Dear Daisy, Is a hand written thank you note a thing of the past, and is it acceptable to use email?

Sincerely, Old school

I don’t think handwritten notes are a thing of the past at all. Call me old-fashioned, but th ank you notes are important. By taking time out of your day and away from your phone or computer, you’re showing the person that you really appreciate what they did for you. I personally write thank you notes for all gifts I receive from friends and family. Although the idea has grown old, being grateful for the things you receive will never grow old.

BY Travis King

On Saturday, February 24, Walker’s Robotics Club hosted the school’s fi rst robotics tournament: the fi nal VEX Robotics World Championship Qualifi er. The club has participated in many of these Qualifi ers, but this was the fi rst ever Robotics match of this magnitude

that Walker has exhibited. Walker had four teams participate: 4495A (made up of Seniors Alex LaDue, Decker Onken, Eric Flint, and Brielle Bowerman), 4495B (Sophomores Alex Reichenbach, Joseph Zuckerman, and Courtney Lewis), 44/95C, and 4495D

(consisting of Middle School Robotics Club members), all of which were led by Upper School Technology Department Chair Thomas Cooper. Cooper, who was instrumental in starting Walker’s Robotics program, was in charge of the entire event, which consisted of 30 teams from 12 different schools from all over the state. The mix of public and private school teams began arriving at 7:30 a.m. for what would prove to be a long and tiring, but also exciting and rewarding day. The tournament took place from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and every minute was fi lled with competition. In the morning, all of the 30 teams competed in eight total qualifying matches. These qualifying matches were played with alliances from different schools, meaning that all Walker teams ended up playing together and against each other for at least one round. Team 4495B was in fi rst place until the last qualifi er where they dropped to second after they experienced trouble with their robot, and Team 4495A held steady in second place until the fi nal qualifi er where they dropped to fi fth. At 2:30 p.m., each team was able to choose two other teams to form an alliance with for the semifi nal and fi nal matches. Walker teams 4495A, 4495B, and 4495C formed an alliance with each other, but ended up losing in the semifi nals to Dunwoody. Overall, the teams from Brookwood High School in Snellville and the Gwinnett School of Math, Science, and Technology in Lawrenceville won, and Woodward Academy’s team took home the Excellence Award, an award given to the team with the best robot,

best engineering journal, and bestperformance. Many attendees were impressedwith Walker’s facilities. Coopersaid, “People said it was a reallynice space. We used the Activity Center, so the kids appreciatedbeing able to work on their robots in a separate area rather then in thesame room. All the adults said ourvolunteers were very nice and veryhelpful.” Though Cooper certainly appreciated the praise, he was verythankful for all the assistance fromthe tournament’s volunteers. Coopersaid, “I was really impressed thatVinnie [Paglioni] came back andhelped run the tournament software.Mr. Doug Flint, Eric’s [Flint] dadwas the Head Referee and he did anexcellent job. Also, Kirsten LaDuedid a great job of organizing thevolunteers. And the Field Crewwho reset the sacks [the objects therobots performed with] all day long were Middle School students, so that was very nice.” Senior Decker Onken, who was unable to attendthe match, was ecstatic when hefound out the results. Onken said,“My favorite moment was when Igot the call from Alex after sayingthat he had done really well driving– he really stepped up, and I thinkhe’ll do really well at Nationals.” From here, Team 4495A will beattending the National tournamentin Omaha, Neb. on March 7-9. Theywill also be attending the VEXRobotics World Championships, held from April 17-20 in Anaheim,Calif.

Online Extra: Visit TWSWolverine.com to view more photos fromthe match as well as to fi nd outmore information about Walker’s Robotics Club.

Walker Hosts School’s First VEX Robotics Competition

8 TheWolverine

involved in multiple productions for many years.. Senior Kyle Rehl, has been a part of the Drama Program at Walker for a while. In addition to this, he is a determined football player and student. For the production of “You Can’t Take it with You,” Rehl played the character Paul Sycamore – a married man who spends his time

making fi reworks and playing with erector sets. The show ran for two weeks, opening on February 27 and closing on March 9. Rehl began his career as a drama student his sophomore year when he was a member of the crew for the musical “The Drowsy Chaperone” which sparked Rehl’s interest in drama. He began to audition for short ten minute plays offered at Walker. By junior year, Rehl

had achieved the lead role in the play “All My Sons.” “I enjoy acting because I fi nd it to be a very enlightening experience,” said Rehl. Like many of the members of the Walker Drama department, Rehl has benefi ted tremendously from acting. For Rehl, acting is a

Artist of the Month: Kyle RehlBY Alex Brack

Every year, the Walker Drama Department leaves audiences amazed with their superior acting abilities as well as the stunning visual effects. Throughout the school year, Fine Arts Department Chairman Katie Arjona and her crew, as well as the actors, work diligently and constantly in order to present the school community

with their wonderful plays. Their hard work pays off tremendously as a majority of their shows end with standing ovations. “I look forward to when the plays open, as they are always entertaining,” said sophomore Steven Liang. He stands for many of the students and faculty of the Walker community. For the 2013 Spring play, the Drama Department performed the comedy play, “You Can’t Take it with You.” The cast features many veteran actors who have been a part of the drama department and

“I enjoy acting because I fi nd it to be a very enlightening experience.”

Senior Kyle Rehl as Paul Sycamore in“You Can’t Take it With You.”

Photo Courtesy of Coleman Hedden

The senior cast members in“You Can’t Take it With You”.

Kyle Rehl (Back row, right)

Photo Courtesy of Coleman Hedden

fun learning experience. As Rehl was introduced to the character he will be portraying, he began the process of becoming his character.

“When you are castas a certain characteryou must breakdown the characters motivations, pastexperiences, andnervous habits,” saidRehl and, “During this creative process, you begin to understandyour character; why he behaves and thinks the way he does,why he feels the wayhe does, even why he might committerrible acts that you would never evencontemplate.” Acting also provides an excellent lifelearning experience. Rehl believes thatlearning how to live like the manycharacters he portraysgives him a betterunderstanding and

view of humanity. It is this attitude that Rehl believes will help him become a better person and have alarger impact on those around him.

March 2013 9

Atlanta Braves Add Young Talent to Roster

BY Victoria Hudson

In 2013, the Braves are poised to make a competitive run and have a legitimate shot at a World Series title. This offseason, the Braves acquired two new outfi elders – B.J. and Justin Upton – in what is possibly the most exciting offseason in recent Braves’ history. According to a Nov. 29 press release by the Braves, older brother B.J. signed a fi ve year, $75.25 million contract in November, while the Braves obtained younger brother Justin from the Arizona Diamondbacks in a seven player deal on January 24. In a recent article by Mark Bowman of MLB.com, Braves starting pitcher Tim

Hudson said, “It has been an exciting offseason. We brought in a lot of talent. We felt like we had a really good team last year, and I feel like we’ve improved in a number of areas. I’m excited.” The Uptons combine with right fi elder Jason Heyward to complete what could be the best outfi eld in Major League Baseball. All three of these outfi elders are gold glove caliber defenders and are capable of producing 30 home runs and 30 stolen bases. In an article published on Feb. 7 by MLB.com, beloved former third baseman Chipper Jones said, “If those guys can motivate each other to take it to the

next level, the sky is the limit.” Jones retired at the end of the 2012 season. A loss to the St. Louis Cardinals in the fi rst ever Wild Card Game on Friday, Oct. 5 marked the end of Jones’ career. Replacing Jones is an impossible task, but the pickup of the Upton brothers will defi nitely help boost an offense that already boasts Freddie Freeman, Dan Uggla, and Brian McCann. The Braves’ new offensive look combines power and speed. Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez hopes that combination will propel the club into October. “We have an exciting lineup, but this is a 162 game season. We have to take things one day at a time.” Missing from that electric offense will be former left fi elder Martin Prado. Prado was sent to the Arizona Diamondbacks in the deal that acquired Justin Upton. Prado was an invaluable utility man that had played every position except pitcher since he joined the Braves

Atlanta’s new outfi eld (left to right): Justin Upton, Jason Heyward, and BJ Upton at Spring Training in Kissimmee, Florida.

Photo Courtesy of Kevin McAlpin

roster. Jones fears that thenew powerheavy offense will strugglewith strike outs. In the Feb. 7 article, Jones said, “I think they’re going to miss MartinPrado, to behonest with you….Martin was a guy who went out andthrew up reallygood at-batstime after timeafter time.” Walker alumnus DavidHale, class of2006, hopes to make the clubfor Opening

Day. Hale played four years ofvarsity baseball for Walker. Hecontinually posted impressivenumbers, especially his juniorand senior years, in which he wasnamed to 1st team All County. He then attended Princeton Universitywhere he played three years ofvarsity baseball and graduated with a degree in Operations FinancialEngineering. He was chosen in thethird round of the 2009 MLB Draft,87th overall and the second pick ofthe Atlanta Braves. Unfortunately, Brian McCann willnot be available for Opening Day. He suffered an offseason shoulderinjury that required surgery, buthopes to be back to open the Braves’ two game series against the KansasCity Royals on April 16. The Braves will hold their seasonopener against the PhiladelphiaPhillies home at Turner Field on Monday, April 1 at 7:10 p.m. Singlegame tickets are currently available on the Braves’ website.

Head of School Jack Hall with Walker alumnus David Hale (‘06) atthe Atlanta Braves’ Spring Trainng in Kissimmee, Florida

Photo Courtesy of Jack Hall

10 TheWolverineGirls’ Lacrosse Joins Spring

Sports LineupBY Victoria Hudson

For the fi rst time in The Walker School’s 55-year history, girls’ lacrosse will be offered as a spring sport. After years of interest from many students and the addition of a boys lacrosse team in the 2012 season, girls will have the opportunity to join the team. Head coach John East joined the Walker family this year and also serves as the Head Coach of the Varsity Football team, who went 11-1 in the 2012 season. This is East’s fi rst time coaching girls’ lacrosse, and he expressed excitement for the new challenge. “I have never coached girls lacrosse before, so it will be new for me. I know a lot of the girls are new to the sport, and I’m new to coaching it; we’re in this together.” East’s enthusiasm makes for a fun atmosphere this season, which has attracted many girls to come out for the team, a majority of whom have

never played lacrosse before. Lacrosse newcomer Sarah Syrop is a senior who will likely be the goalkeeper for the team this season. Though Syrop has no goalkeeping experience, she does have many years of experience playing elite-level softball. Her position is

catcher. Syrop said, “Catching has defi nitely helped me with goalkeeping. It’s basically the same idea: trying to catch the ball, or in

the worst case scenario, block it.” Since most of the team consists of newcomers, the squad will rely on the players’ previous athletic endeavors and their natural athletic ability. Since this is the fi rst year there will be a girls team, they are

required by GHSA regulations to be a Junior Varsity team. Despite their offi cial JV standing, the girls’ team boasts a schedule that consists of all 4-A and 5-A schools. The team will look to the more experienced players to help give

them an edge while playing such large schools. Junior Gracie Yarborough was one the forces who helped bring girls’ lacrosse to Walker. When

BY Alex Brack

With spring just around the corner, many members of the Walker community grow eager for the coming of the soccer season. The soccer program at Walker is one of our oldest and strongest athletic programs. Since the fall of 1980, the Walker soccer program has witnessed immense changes. Specifi cally, as time has progressed, competition has also grown substantially. However, Walker soccer has compensated through rigorous amounts of both mental and physical practice. After school, you may see the boys and girls soccer teams either preparing at the stadium or scrambling to get rides to practice at indoor locations. Practice has remained this way for many years. Every weekday, whether it is rain or shine, players meet for practice. For both soccer programs, the coaches effectively plan practices

in order to improve the team’s weak points. Sometimes, the boys team will assist the girls team in order to mutually improve.

The 2013 boys’ Walker soccer season will be coached by Athletics Director Gary Blohm, Kennesaw State University Coach John

Montgomery, and Middle School faculty member Jamie Rubens. For the boys program, there will be both a Varsity team as well as a Junior Varsity team. The girls team, however, will be coached by Director of Admissions and Spanish teacher Brad Brown and will only have a Varsity team. Blohm is the head coach for the boys Varsity Soccer team. Blohm has been involved with the Walker soccer program for 31 years. Even prior to coming to Walker, Blohm was involved with soccer. Blohm said, “I have been playing soccer since the age of 10. I played for four years in high school and four years in college at North Georgia College. I coached for two years at NGC while I was completing my Master’s Degree.”

Continued on Page 11

she moved from St. Louis in 2011,Walker did not offer lacrosse, andYarborough commuted to Canton,Ga. to participate in lacrosse. Sheand her father Upper School historyteacher David Yarborough, whoalso works at Walker, made it apoint to integrate girls’ lacrosse intoWalker’s athletic program. GracieYarborough is currently injured,but should be joining the teamin preseason workouts soon. Shesaid, “I’m really excited for us tostart playing games. The new girlsare catching on really quickly, andwe’re having a lot of fun!” The Walker girls’ fi rst lacrossegame will be on Wednesday,March 20 at Kell High School.The remainder of their game timesand locations can be found on theWalker School website on the JVGirls’ Lacrosse page.

Junior Luke Lammert competing in a Varsity soccer match.

Photo Courtesy of Mike Mackey

“Despite their offi cial JV standing, the girls’ team boasts a schedule that consists of all 4-A and 5-A schools.

Walker Soccer Ready for Success

March 2013 11

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Athlete of the Month:Ian Cossentino

BY Meredith Wright

Is there anything Senior Ian Cossentino can’t do? Recently featured in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution as Walker’s STAR student achieving, Cossentino excels both in the classroom and on the track. According to the Marietta Daily Journal, a STAR student is selected “for having the highest SAT score on the three-part test in one sitting, along with being in the Top 10 or top 10 percent of his or her g r a d u a t i n g class.” He joined the cross country team in sixth grade, and his choice in running came with a range of reasons. “I looked at something that was actually useful and fun,” Cossentino said. “It’s a combination of a bunch of things, and after a while you couldn’t really stop, so I just stuck with it.” Cossentino continued running through middle and high school and is now entering his fi nal track season as both a captain of the team and one of the best long-distance runners. For

those unfamiliar to track, there are multiple races based on distance. Upper School English teacher and Cross Country and Track coach Chris Golden has a lot of experience running with Ian. “Ian motivates himself and doesn’t need prodding from the coaching staff,” said

Golden. “He sets a high standard for himself and understands that he is the one who has the greatest stake in achieving his potential.” This drive can be found anywhere that Cossentino is involved. He puts all his effort and commitment into whatever he is working towards. For example, when he is not running, Cossentino competes with the academic team and attends

many practices to prepare for their weekend competitions. Cossentino can also be found playing the trombone in the Walker band. Outside of school, he participates in the jazz band at Kennesaw State University. Then typically on Sundays, Cossentino tutors

Vi e t n a m e s e kids with Seniors Mitch Van De Eynde and Ceci Dang. When it comes to being so involved with a variety of activities, it can be hard to balance a c a d e m i c s with your commitments outside of school. Like many other Upper School students who

are so involved, Cossentino credits minimal sleep and trying not to procrastinate as qualities that help him keep everything under control. “I mean, you get through it, everyone gets through it,” Cossentino said. He has spent so many years running and kept the motivation to return to the track team each year. For Cossentino, “the feeling you get afterwards, an irresistible drive

to go back because of the adrenaline and accomplishment all at the same time,” that keeps him coming back each year striving for more. Next year, Cossentino will be attending Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island where the motivation he has carried all through high school will continue.

Varsity Soccer

Ready for Success

Senior Ian Cossentino (fi fth from left) runs in a track meet at Walton High School.

Photo Courtesy of Mike Mackey

Continued from Page 10

Blohm has dedicated much of hiscareer to soccer. His attitude towardsthe game of soccer is positive evenif the odds are not in Walker’s favor, and Blohm expects a lot from his players as he expressed. “I expectto see improvement every time westep on the fi eld…for all the youngmen to work hard for a commongoal,” Said Blohm. Despite therebeing the usual problems, such asthe fact that Walker has such a smallpool of players, Blohm believes thatthe 2013 soccer season will be asuccess. Brown, who is the coach of thegirls Varsity Soccer team for the 2013 season, seems to have the sameexpectations as Blohm. Following his career as a student and soccerplayer at Furman University, Brownwas eager to coach soccer. In 2000, Brown began coaching at Walker. Although the girls only haveenough players for a Varsity team,Brown is striving for success as henoticed the positive attitude of allhis players. Brown said, “I am trulylooking forward to a good year. We have a balanced team with strong leadership and some dynamicnewcomers.” While their ultimategoal is to win, Brown hopes thatthe girls team will still benefi t from every training session and game. The players, both boys and girls,share the same up-beat spirit as thecoaches. Sophomore and varsityplayer Parker Smith said, “I amlooking forward to a great season. I believe that both the Boys’ andGirls’ program will do very well.” Smith stands for all of the playersand coaches. Their enthusiasm anddedication will show this season, in turn giving way to success. For the remainder of the season, both the boys and girls teams are facingtough games against rivals such asMount Paran and Holy Innocence.

March 2013 12

Thespians Spend President’s Day in New York City

BY Coleman Hedden

On February 14, 2013, nine students and three faculty members fl ew to New York City for Winter Break to take part in the Broadway Student Summit alongside many other drama students from across the country. The students were given the unique opportunity to learn from Broadway professionals such as Steven Malone, the assistant musical director for “Newsies” who taught a vocal class, and Holly Ann Ruggiero, a Broadway casting director, who taught a class on the Broadway audition process. Outside of the classroom, the group ventured into the city, watched a vow renewal ceremony on Times Square for Valentine’s Day, were interviewed by CNN about subway safety, and even participated in the student-fi lmed Harlem Shake video for New York University. Upper School Fine Arts Chair Katie Arjona attended the Broadway Teacher Summit this past summer through which she learned about the Student Summit. Arjona was accompanied by Upper School Chorus teacher Samantha Walker, Upper School French teacher Jennifer May, and nine student thespians. The trip was Walker and Senior Aly Iachino’s fi rst times visiting the city and both thoroughly enjoyed their experience. Iachino said, “It was awesome. It was really fast-paced and I had never been there before so there was defi nitely a learning curve.” Walker said, “It’s kind of the mecca of what I do. The Metropolitan Art museum and opera is located there. It’s just a wealth of the arts. I felt like I was in a movie the entire time I was there. Or in a Seinfeld episode.” Arjona hoped to expose the students to professionals in the fi eld who could validate what they learn in the classroom and in after school productions. Arjona said, “I wanted to give the students an opportunity to see how much more they need to learn and what the business is really going to be like, because it’s not an easy career to make for yourself. This was certainly a great way to expose them

to that aspect.” Students also had an option of performing a monologue and/or song in front of a Broadway casting director to receive feedback. Of course, some classes gave the students memories they will never forget. Jess LeProtto, a dancer in the cast of Broadway’s “Newsies” and a “So You Think You Can Dance” alum, taught an intense, yet very popular dance class. Junior Jenny Hawk said, “I was starstruck. It was just a fantastic opportunity to learn from such a talented dancer.” Holly Ann Ruggiero, the Assistant Director for the Broadway musical “Jersey Boys”, taught a class on how to give yourself the best opportunity to make a lasting impression on the casting directors in an audition. Senior Alex Catlin volunteered to perform her prepared song, “I Resolve” from the musical

“She Loves Me,” in front of the entire class and receive assistance from Ruggiero. Catlin said, “I defi nitely felt more confi dent afterwards and it was so great to work with [Ruggiero] because she was so reassuring and made me feel more comfortable to open up. The way she taught was very relatable and down-to-earth.” Walker said, “Watching Alex Catlin walk up and sing her solo in front of the casting director and her working with Alex,

helping give her more dimensions to her song, and watching Alex sing it again defi nitely was an emotional e x p e r i e n c e for me. That was defi nitely a very m e m o r a b l e moment for me that I’ll never forget.” On Friday, February 15, the students took a Method A c t i n g class from Yvette Mercedes, a professional actress and teacher at the Strasberg Institute. Arjona and Mercedes met when Arjona was the director of the Young Actors Program at the Strasberg Institute from November of 2000 to July of 2003. Arjona said, “[Patrons of the Arts] was gracious enough to fund the money to pay her the fee to teach the private class and also to rent the studio space where she taught the class so we’re really grateful for that opportunity from them.” Catlin said, “Yvette’s class was very transformative, and I tapped into a different side of myself that I don’t usually bring out.” The purpose of the method is to allow actors to experience honest and natural emotions during a performance. Arjona said, “I watched all of the students reach some sort of clarity about having no fear about expressing themselves onstage, so I got a little emotional and overwhelmed.” Over the course of the weekend, the group was able to see three shows performed on Broadway: two musicals, “Once” and “Newsies”, and a straight play, “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.” The Broadway Student Summit provided tickets for all the students and teachers to see Disney’s “Newsies” and it received

praise from the whole group. Junior Erin Leagan said, “‘Newsies’ wasdefi nitely my favorite show because I enjoyed the excitement of the setand the dancing was absolutelyphenomenal.” “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof”, starring Scarlett Johansson (as Maggie) and Benjamin Walker (as Brick), left the group speechlesswith the power of the actorsonstage. After the production, thegroup waited outside the stagedoorand received autographs from someof the actors including Debra Monk (as Big Mama) and Ciarán Hinds (asBig Daddy). Yet, the most popularshow the group saw was “Once.” Catlin said, “‘Once’ was my favorite show. The music was justso great and so well performed.” Senior Rachel Novak said, “It wasan incredibly inspriring, reallymoving show. I was just so focused throughout the entire show.” Over the course of the trip,Arjona emphasized the importance of seizing every opportunity. Catlin said, “Mrs. Arjona taughtme that you can’t be afraid to putyourself out there. No holding back.” Arjona returned to Atlantaextremely pleased with the trip andsaid, “I learned that the experience is important for the students andwe will make it an every other yearthing for juniors and seniors.”

Upper School Fine Arts Chair Katie Arjona is interviewed about

subway safety by CNN.

Photo Courtesy of Coleman Hedden

Walker thespians (left to right) Alex Catlin, Georgie Wilkins, Erin Leagan, Aly Iachino, Sam Lowry, Jenny Hawk,

Eleni Demestihas, Rachel Novak, and Samantha Walker gather outside Joe’s Shanghai for a lunch in Chinatown.

Photo Courtesy of Coleman Hedden