Matthew Asbell is a Varsity player for the Marco Island Academy boys lacrosse team. He has been playing his sport for a total of three years, ever since he started high school. Matthew loves the thrill of playing lacrosse with his friends and how intense it can really be. He enjoys playing for a team, especially, and everything that comes with it.

Matthew Asbell has had years of memories related to the team, however, only one stands out to him. His favorite memory was when the team went to go get food after a hard earned win. It was tacos at Gavin Pascale’s house, in which they talked and built a much stronger bond that, in turn, helped the team. He also enjoyed riding up to the games with his friends as well, as they always made sure they had a great time.

Matthew Asbell is a very traditional player, as he likes to keep his pregame rituals and traditions simple. Matthew enjoys having a good meal and listening to some music to get him ready to play at his full capabilities. Matthew would like to thank his mom for getting him into the sport, not only with lacrosse, but other sports as well. For the past three years Coach Doug has really helped sharpen his abilities. Matthew would also like to thank him for pushing him to new heights he never thought he would reach.

After high school Matthew plans to take his studies to the Florida Gulf Coast University. Lastly Matthew would like to leave the team with words of encouragement, “Make sure you put in the time and the effort, not just for the team, but for yourself as well.” He especially sends this message to the younger guys as they have many years to improve and make the program better.

Ava Ball has been a vital member of the girls’ lacrosse team since her sophomore year. She emerged as a key player, residing in the attack position, helping the team run the ball down the field. Trying out with her best friends, Ball easily found herself to fit into the team with open arms and make more friends as the season progressed. 

Within the sport, Ball learned a handful of skills to better her playing and stamina but above all, she is grateful to have learned the rules of lacrosse and how to really get into it and put your mind into the game and learn better hand-eye coordination. 

Ball has collected a full book of fun memories within the season, constantly playing alongside her friends and carpooling with the people she loves most; however, there are some memories that stick out and it was difficult to choose a favorite, but she decided that “…getting food after the games was definitely my favorite part of lacrosse.” 

Turning to the sport itself, Ball expresses joy when she explains that her favorite game memory is when they won their first game, which was against Immokalee High School, as the team had just been starting up by then and there was immense joy radiating through all the ladies. 

Ball wants to give a special thanks to Coach Ginther, explaining that “I am grateful that he started the team.” 

As she sets her stick down for good, Ball wants to leave a mark on any future players, by giving a quote that will definitely help them as they start on the field: “Be where the ball is going.” 

Since sophomore year, Cora has been bringing energy, leadership and plenty of fun on the field as an attack and midfield player. She started playing because a bunch of her friends kept asking her to join and since she had always wanted to try lacrosse, she finally said yes and clearly that worked out pretty well and clearly, that worked out pretty well. One of her favorite memories was scoring her very first goal, but she’ll never forget that first season when nobody really knew what they were doing and everyone was just out there having the best time. Core is most proud of being a captain and leader on the field, while also helping build the lacrosse team from the ground up as one of the people who helped create the program, which is seriously such a cool legacy to leave behind. Over the years, lacrosse has helped her grow by teaching her more and more about the game while also helping build strong relationships with her teammates more than anything. This sport has taught her leadership and discipline, while still giving her so many fun memories along the way. Core would like to thank her parents, coaches and teammates for always supporting her throughout the years. From helping start the program to leading it with heart, Core has truly left her mark and her team is definitely going to miss her.

John Brueckner has been a proud member of the Manta Ray baseball team for the past three years. Known by his nickname “JB” or “Johnny”. Johnny has brought a fun and lighthearted energy to the team while creating lasting friendships along the way. During his time playing for Marco Island Academy, he has embraced every moment on the field, making the most of his experience as a student-athlete.

This season was especially memorable for Johnny, as he celebrated getting his first hit—an exciting milestone in his baseball career. While he enjoys the game, Johnny is also known for his humor and unique perspective. His personal quote, “Don’t hit the ball, it’s overrated,” reflects his ability to keep things fun and not take the game too seriously.

Being part of school spirit has been a highlight for Johnny. He describes being a Manta Ray as an unforgettable experience, saying it feels like he is “swimming around the bases” every time he steps onto the field in his uniform. His enthusiasm and pride in representing his school have made his time on the team even more special.

When asked about his favorite memory, Johnny shared that spending time in the dugout with his teammates Aidan and Akiel stands out the most. These moments of camaraderie and laughter are what he will remember long after his final season.

Johnny draws inspiration from professional shortstop Wander Franco, who he considers the best at his position. Looking ahead, he offers some unconventional advice to future players: “Lift small, swing and miss on the ball.” While humorous, it highlights his belief in enjoying the game and staying relaxed.

As Johnny finishes his final year at Marco Island Academy, he leaves behind a legacy of positivity, humor, and strong team spirit. His time as a Manta Ray may be coming to an end, but the memories and friendships he’s made will last well beyond the field.

Meghan “Meggy” Donaldson has made a lasting impact during her time at MIA, both on and off the field. Known for her positive attitude and dedication to her team, Meggy has been an important part of the girls’ lacrosse program since it first began. 

She has been playing lacrosse for three years, starting during her sophomore year when the school launched the program. From the very beginning, she helped build the foundation of the team and even scored the first goal in the history of MIA girls’ lacrosse, a moment that will always be part of the program’s story. 

 Some of Meggy’s favorite memories from high school come from the time spent with her teammates. She especially enjoys the car rides to and from games, where everyone laughs, talks, and bonds as a team. After games, the team often celebrates by stopping for Swig drinks or Menchie’s frozen yogurt, creating small traditions that make the season even more special. 

She also remembers the very first year of the program, when the team was still learning the rules and figuring everything out together. Even though they didn’t know much about the sport at the time, they focused on having fun and supporting each other, which made the experience unforgettable. 

Meggy’s biggest motivation comes from the people around. Her teammates and coaches inspire her to give her best effort every time she steps onto the field. Their encouragement pushes her to work hard and play not only for herself but for the entire team. 

Her advice to younger students and athletes is simple but meaningful. Always try your best and find a way to have fun even when things get difficult. Hard work and dedication may not always be easy, but they will pay off in the end. Meggy’s commitment, teamwork, and positive spirit have helped shape the MIA girls’ lacrosse program and will leave a lasting legacy for future player 

Ava Elizabeth Fabian is a first-year lacrosse player at MIA. Fabian is a midfielder and an essential player for the team, with 4 years of experience under her belt, averaging 3-4 goals per game.

Although this is her only year playing, Fabian has made some of her best memories with the team. With one standout memory being car rides to games with teammates, Gracie Johnson, Grace Elliott, and Meghan Donaldson. And her other favorite memory being every win they bring home.

Fabian would like to thank her coaches, Coach Ginther and “Mama” Wendy, for being her biggest inspirations on the field and working her to her fullest potential.

A quote that Fabian would like to leave her teammates and upcoming players with is, “Always work your hardest even when you don’t want to, it will always pay off.” A great piece of advice that could motivate anybody.

In one year of running track, Luca Garcia-Perfecto aka the flash has made memories and built connections that will stay with him long after high school ends. Competing in discus, shot put, and the 3200 meter, Luca has taken on every challenge with determination, heart and a mindset forced not only on himself but on his team as well. Luca originally joined track because his friends convinced him to, but something to try. It became a place where he found friendship, competition and unforgettable moments. His favorite memory was going to his meets and getting pizza after. One accomplishment Luca is especially proud of getting 1st place. That achievement reflects the hard work, effort and dedication he brought to the team. When asked what the biggest lesson track has taught him, Luca said how to run fast but track has clearly taught him discipline, teamwork, and how meaningful it is to push yourself towards your goals. Luca would like to thank Mr. Miller and his parents for supporting him throughout his journey. His advice to younger athletes is simple but powerful “ stay focused and try your hardest to achieve your goals”.

Being a part of school spirit is especially meaningful when the right people surround you. That is exactly what has shaped Medney’s high school experience. Medney has been playing beach volleyball for two years, and beach volleyball has become more than just a sport. It has become a place where friendships have been made and memories created. 

One of her favorite memories from beach volleyball is when the team traveled to Miami to play Westminster Christian. While the games might not have gone as they wanted, it was still a fun experience to play in Miami and see parrots and feed baby ducks. Moments like this made this trip unforgettable. Moments like this show how sports can bring people together. 

Looking back, her biggest advice is “have fun while it lasts.” Volleyball season goes by fast, and making the most out of everything is what matters. Medney is inspired by her supportive parents, who encourage her to be the best version of herself. 

After high school, Medney plans on attending Life University to play volleyball in college. Medney leaves behind a lasting legacy on and off the sand.

Aidan Thomas Herzog, also known as “Jerzog” or “Herzy,” has been a big part of MIA baseball for the past three years. Whether he’s on the mound or up to bat, he’s someone the team can count on to get the job done.

Over his time playing, Herzog has put up some really solid stats. He has a .426 batting average and a .726 slugging percentage, along with a 1.3 ERA as a pitcher. His mindset going into games is simple: “Put a K on it.” It’s something that shows how competitive he is and how locked in he stays during games.ch

But for Herzog, baseball isn’t just about stats. “I love being a Manta Ray,” he said. “The jerseys are also pretty cool, especially the dark blue one.” It’s obvious he enjoys being part of the team and representing the school.

One of his favorite memories was getting the chance to pitch at the Miami Marlins Stadium as a freshman, which is something most players don’t get to experience due to MIA having ties to a school in the vicinity of where the Marlins play. It’s not only an opportunity of a lifetime for most players, but also a moment he’ll probably remember for a long time.

Looking back on his time at MIA, Herzog says the biggest thing he’s learned is to appreciate the game. “Don’t take it for granted, the seasons go by fast,” he said. It’s simple advice, but it’s real and something a lot of younger players can learn from.

He also gives a lot of credit to his dad, who has been a big inspiration to him. “He helped me my whole life with baseball and always pushed me to be better.”

Aidan leaves MIA baseball as a strong player and a great teammate.

To Rylee, being a part of school spirit is being in one big family. This is what has helped shape Rylee’s high school experience. Rylee has been playing beach volleyball for two years, and it has been more than just a sport to her. It has been a place where she has grown, made memories, and created lifelong friendships. 

Rylee’s favorite memory was the bus ride to Westminster Christian. Knowing it was her last time traveling with this team to an away game, it meant so much more to her. Even though they might not have won the game, the memories they made along the way meant so much more to her. 

A piece of advice from Rylee is to “learn to love everyone around you.” At the end of the day, everyone is there for the same reason, and that makes your connection even stronger. She has been inspired every step of the way by her mom, as she also played volleyball. Rylee leaves a lasting impact on the MIA Beach Volleyball program on and off the court.

Gracie Johnson has been a dedicated athlete throughout her high school career. She has played soccer for over 10 years, including four years on the school team, where she served as captain for two seasons. As a captain, Gracie helped lead her team by setting a strong example through hard work, determination, and a positive attitude both on and off the field. 

Along with soccer, Gracie also played lacrosse for three years and was selected as team captain, being a leader on two different teams showed her commitment to her sports and teammates. She always worked to push herself and support those around her, helping create a strong and lively team environment. 

One of Gracie’s favorite memories from her time playing sports comes from the moments she spent with her teammates off the field. She especially remembers the car rides to and from soccer games with Meghan and Brinley, and the rides to lacrosse games with Meghan, Ava, and Grace. These moments helped build strong friendships and made the experience even more special. 

Gracie’s advice to younger athletes is simple: have fun and give your full effort. She believes that if you are going to play a sport, you should always give it your best. If you are not willing to put in the effort, then it may not be right for you. For Gracie, working hard while enjoying the experience is what makes being part of a team so rewarding.

Gracie’s dedication, leadership, and love for her sports have made a lasting impact on her team, her time playing soccer and lacrosse has helped shape many great memories and friendships that she will carry with her beyond high school. Gracie’s years of playing sports helped her grow as a teammate and leader, while also teaching her the value of teamwork and commitment.

Jonathan Juels has been a proud member of the Manta Ray track and field team for three years of his high school career. Jon started track and field in his freshman year, continued his journey through his junior and senior years, and has loved the sport. Over the years of playing as a manta ray, Jon has made so many memories and friendships along the way. Every day at practice or on the track is unique. Jon’s favorite thing about doing track and field is the meets themselves. Jon stated, “I enjoy watching others perform their events and having my teammates cheer me on when I do mine.” Additionally, Jon loves going out for team meals at his favorite restaurants after meets, such as Chick-fil-A and Culver’s. As for nicknames, Jon goes by “JJ” on the field.

For the team, Jon throws the discus and runs the 400 for Marco Island Academy. When asked about his favorite memory from doing track and field. Jon said, “I loved beating Logan in almost every event during junior year, and junior year, when the glorious Jakey Watt jumped long jump and went to districts.”

As for pre-game traditions, before each track meet, Jon makes sure to eat Dunkin’ Donuts before each event to keep his energy and sugar levels high for each event. Additionally, Jon stated, “I also listen to Bruno Mars as a pregame ritual while imagining how slow the others are.”

After three years of doing track and field for Marco Island Academy, Jon would like to thank Mr. Miller for always helping and encouraging him to be his best self, and helping him when someone misplaced their shoes.

Now, with less than a year left of school, Jon will have to turn in his final uniform and put on his armour, as he will become a knight when he attends the University of Central Florida to pursue his dream of majoring in Biomedical Neuroscience. His advice for the future and upcoming track and field athletes is “Just keep running. Eventually, it has to get fun.”

Landen Keim, better known as “Thunder,” has been doing track since his junior year and has been continuing it in his senior year. Landen is known to be a very fast runner on the team.

For Landen, school spirit is very important, and he wants to share that “It feels amazing to be a part of such a lively school spirit. Some may even say I AM the school spirit.” Landen would also like to share a duo quote alongside his teammate Mekyle Nazarko, AKA “Lightning”, “…and make it double!”

Landen’s favorite memory of track was when Logan Terreri wanted a free cheeseburger and had to eat it in one bite. Lastly, Landen wants to share some words of wisdom to current and future track players: “Be aware,” and that Mr.Miller will “make you run at track practice.”

Sean McGowan has been playing MIA baseball for the past two years, and even volunteered to join last year when the team didn’t have enough players, which says a lot about his dedication to the sport. He’s definitely made an impact during that time. He’s not really the type to overhype himself, he just goes out there and does his thing.

Stat-wise, he’s had a solid run. He’s batting .500 with an .855 OPS, and when he’s pitched, he’s thrown 8 innings and only given up 1 hit with 0 runs. Basically, when he’s in, he’s doing something right, whether that’s at the plate or on the mound.

Sean also has a pretty honest mindset about the game. “Nobody is always a winner, and anybody who says he is is either lying or doesn’t play poker,” he said. Which is genius, because it kind of sums up how he sees baseball. You’re not always going to win, and that’s just part of it.

Even though he says it can be tough sometimes, especially since not a lot of people come out to the games, he still sticks with it. He shows up, plays hard, and does what he can for the team.

One of his favorite moments was hitting a go-ahead double in a rain game, which ended up winning it. It’s one of those moments that just sticks with you, especially as a baseball player.

If he had to give advice, he’d keep it simple: “It won’t matter in 5 years, just do it.” It’s basically about not overthinking stuff and just going for it.

Sean also said John Brueckner was someone who inspired him, and honestly, anyone who’s been around MIA baseball knows how much of an impact he has. Overall, Sean leaves the program as someone who just stayed real and did his thing.

Mekyle Nazarko, also known as “Lighting”, “How is he so fast”, and “Speed” among his teammates and those who have witnessed his running, has been running track for his past 4 years at MIA. Nazarko runs in the 100-meter and 400-meter, with his time for the 100 being 12.3 and 56 for the 400.

Narazrko recalls his best memory of track was his junior year when a fellow teammate, Logan Terreri, was really hungry and said he would eat a teammate’s burger in one bite if he could get it for free, so they watched him shove the whole thing in his mouth and explode.

Being a part of MIA’s school spirit “feels great”, says Nazarko, “I like being around my spectacular friends on the track team while I, the team captain, lead them into greatness.”

Nazarko wants to thank his biggest inspiration, fellow teammate Landen Keim, who also motivated him even when he didn’t feel like practicing. Saying Landen’s strength and speed on the track are what motivate and push him to the next level.

Nazarko’s advice for any upcoming runners is “beware, Mr. Miller doesn’t understand what senioritis is and that it forces me to skip practices.”

Lastly, Mekyle would like to end with two quotes, first, “Every lap taught me that progress isn’t always fast, but quitting guarantees you never finish,” and second, a due quo with Landen Keim, “Prepare for trouble…”

Veleon Nazarko is a Varsity player for the Marco Island Academy boys lacrosse team. He has been playing his sport for a total of four years, ever since he started high school. Veleon loves the thrill of playing lacrosse with his friends and how intense it can really be. He enjoys playing for a team, especially, and everything that comes with it.

Veleon Nazarko has had years of memories related to the team, however, only one stands out to him. His favorite memory was when the team went to go get food after a hard earned win. His favorite part of the dinner was being able to talk to his teammates and connect with them on a deeper level to build chemistry. He also enjoyed riding up to the games with his friends as well, as they always made sure they had a great time.

Veleon Nazarko is a very traditional player, as he likes to keep his pregame rituals and traditions simple. Veleon enjoys having a good meal and listening to some music to get him ready to play at his full capabilities. Veleon would like to thank his parents for getting him into the sport, not only with lacrosse, but many other sports as well. For the past three years Coach Doug has really helped sharpen his abilities. Veleon would also like to thank him for pushing him to new heights he never thought he would reach.

After high school, Veleon plans to take his studies to Florida State University. Lastly, Veleon would like to leave the team with words of encouragement, “Keep practicing and putting in that work, you never know what you can achieve when you really put your mind to it”. He especially sends this message to the younger guys as they have many years to improve and make the program better.

Nathan is a first-year player on the baseball team at Marco Island Academy. He was once the team manager, but when the team did not have enough players for a game, Nathan stepped up to the plate and became a player for the team. Nathan goes by a few nicknames, such as Nate, Big N, and Batman. For Nathan, it is very fun to be part of MIA’s school spirit. And even though the team does not have a home field, they still make the best out of it.

Nathan’s favorite memory of being part of the team was when the team was up against Everglades and did not have enough players, and he ended up playing his first baseball game. Nathan likes to sum up his mentality with a quote, “I’m Batman.”

Nathan has said that he takes a lot of inspiration from his brother because he is a Division 1 athlete, and Mr.Wood because he convinced him to start playing baseball. To current and future athletes, Nathan would like to share, “Don’t take everything so seriously, just have fun.”

Jordan Rodden has been a proud member of the Manta Ray baseball team since his freshman year. Ever since he started playing in kindergarten, he has loved the sport. Over the years of playing as a manta ray, Jordan has made so many friendships and memories with his teammates that he will never forget. Every day on the field was a whole other adventure.  Jordan’s favorite thing about playing baseball is batting at the pitch and hitting his famous dingers on every pitch. On the field, Jordan goes by the name  “J-Rod”,a name given to him by his fellow teammates.

When asked about his favorite memory of playing baseball for the school, Jordan said, “My favorite memory was when I hit a walk-off double to win us the game against the number 2 school from Chicago.”

In order to warm up their reflexes before each game, you can find Jordan and his friends doing their pregame tradition of playing hacky sack together. After playing baseball for ten years, Jordan developed this tradition in his senior year, when his best friend pulled out a hacky sack, and they have continued this for their final season together.

For senior lacrosse player Noah Smith, the game has always been more than competition, but a source of passion and incredible memories that have defined much of his high school experience.

 After four years of playing a sport for MIA, Noah has definitely made a place for himself both on and off the team, scoring three goals and breaking 11 sticks. 

Before a big game, Noah likes to, as he puts it, “Listen to music and fill myself with immense amounts of whimsy,” keeping it light and relaxed. Then, when he’s on the field, that relaxation transforms into something much more powerful. Noah describes feeling an almost euphoric, warm, and cozy feeling of school spirit that just wraps around him, indescribable, but undeniably impactful.

Furthermore, one of his favorite memories on the team comes from when former teammate Gavin Pascale had a team gathering at his house after a strong season of lacrosse. The team spent time chatting, reflecting, eating tacos, and enjoying each other’s company. Although simple, these moments are what Noah loves about playing on a team and show the camaraderie and connection that hold the team together.

His advice to up-and-coming players is, “play as hard as possible while finding ways to enjoy what they do, ensuring the experience remains meaningful and far from dull.” Both this advice and his own inspiration stem directly from his own love for the game. Additionally, he would like to thank his coaches who helped mold him into the dedicated and capable athlete that he is today.

Jenna Snover has brought energy, determination, and school spirit to Marco Island Academy. Over the past three years, she has been a dedicated lacrosse player. 

Jenna is inspired by the quote “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”- Tim Notke, and Jenna has proven that this is her mindset every step of the way. Whether she is pushing through a hard practice, leading her team through big games, or bringing energy to the sidelines while cheering, Jenna consistently gives it her all. 

Jenna believes that being a part of school spirit is one of the best parts of high school, saying it makes her feel excited, connected, and proud to represent MIA.

 Jenna didn’t hesitate to say her favorite memory was her first lacrosse win during her sophomore year. She says it wasn’t just about the scoreboard, but the growth the team had made, and getting to see the team’s hard work pay off. This memory captures exactly what high school sports are about.  

Jenna’s advice for future athletes is simple but powerful: “Always try your hardest and have fun.” She believes that attitude makes all the difference. Whether she’s on the court, field, or the sidelines, Jenna Snover has been a leader, motivator, and a great example of a student athlete. 

She will be remembered not only for her accomplishments but for the positivity and fun spirit she brought to all her teams.

Logan Sullivan-Terreri has only been running track since last year but to his teammates, “Big L” has been on the track team since his freshman year. Though he’s newer to the team, he was welcomed with open arms by his teammates and has created a close bond with some of them. He started running track because some of his friends were on the team and, as he explains, “..I wanted to incorporate some physical activity into my years of high school.” 

Terreri often expresses that he wished he joined track earlier, finding out how fun it was in his later years of high school. Joining track has taught Terreri a multitude of skills but to him, he specifically “…learned how to move with tremendous speed and throw with tremendous strength.” 

Terreri explains that his pre-game ritual is getting Dunkin’ before important meets, alongside his friends and teammates Mekyle Nazarko and Landen Keim. You can often find them all carpooling together, whether it’s just to Dunkin’ or to the meets. Aside from the sport itself, Terreri looks at the team with adoration when he says that his favorite part about track was the family that came out of it. 

Among all the memories created over the seasons, Terreri explains that his favorite memory is his teammate, Mekyle Nazarko, promising the team that we would run a “sub 12” and instead, ran a “sub 13.2.” 

Now, as he runs for the last time, he wants to let future students know that “…track is the best sport, if you aren’t doing anything second semester, consider joining.” Alongside that inspirational quote, he has an add-on quote to his teammates, Mekyle Nazarko and Landen Keim, “sike, make it triple!” 

Leah Tschida, also known as Leelee, decided to join the Marco Island Academy’s varsity girls lacrosse team for the first time this school year and has had no regrets. Being a part of this team has taught Leah that playing a sport is not only fun but has also helped her become a part of a united community. With her great defense skills, she has become a great addition to the team. 

One of her favorite memories from lacrosse is getting to spend time with her friends during practices and even more during away games, where she got to carpool people. Of course, she couldn’t forget to mention the pre-game food stops at the closest fast food restaurant in order to get ready for a game. She built lasting friendships and shared many laughs with her teammates. She makes sure to specify that her favorite part of being on a team is the support and comfort her teammates provide for her and one another. 

She has left some advice for upcoming students interested in lacrosse. Although it is simple, it holds great meaning: “Try your hardest and encourage your teammates.” She believes that a truly strong team would not be possible without a positive connection between teammates. Leah points out that none of this would have been possible without the positivity of her coaches and teammates, who she considers her inspiration. 

Although it has been her first and only spring season playing lacrosse, she wishes to go back in time and have done it all four years of high school. After graduation, Leah will have turned in her jersey one last time. She plans to attend the University of South Florida, but she will leave behind a legacy of positivity, dedication, and school spirit that will continue inspiring MIA student athletes.