This Week in Athletics
April 26, 2024
From the diamond to the court, from the track to the pool, Cate School’s athletes have been showcasing their spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence. In a series of thrilling competitions, the Rams have left a trail of victories, shattered records, and triumphant moments. Whether it’s baseball, volleyball, tennis, lacrosse, track and field, or swimming, each team has demonstrated resilience, talent, and unwavering determination. Join us on the mesa as we dive into the captivating journey of Cate’s athletes, where every victory is a testament to their dedication and unity.
Rams Roar into Playoffs: Cate Baseball’s Epic Journey to Victory!
Peter Lehman ’25 -Image by Katie
The Cate baseball team has been on fire lately, battling through rain and tough opponents to secure some impressive wins! They kicked things off with a sensational 15-1 victory on the road against the Cardinals, showing their grit and determination. Led by standout players like Quinn Pullen ’25, who’s been crushing it at the plate with two doubles and two RBIs, and Peter Lehman ’25, whose dominant performance on the mound has been a game-changer, the Rams have been unstoppable. Their league play started with a bang as they stormed to a 6-2 win against Santa Clara, with Pullen leading the charge with two hits and two walks. They didn’t stop there, following it up with an electrifying 11-1 win over Santa Clara in the rematch, where Ethan Gibson ’25 and Josh Butler ’26 showcased their hitting prowess with clutch RBIs. And let’s not forget their phenomenal 12-2 triumph against Villanova Prep, where Pullen’s stellar pitching and Lehman’s incredible hitting led the team to victory. Despite a tough loss against Foothill Tech, the Rams finished the regular season with an impressive 11-5 record, clinching a spot in the post-season for the first time since 2019! Coach couldn’t be prouder of the team’s hard work and dedication, and they’re ready to bring the heat in the playoffs!
4 Seniors: Ben Richmond, Oliver Lee, Clyde Kye, Dilan Lee
Cate Boys Varsity Volleyball: Weeks of Triumphs, Unity, and Unstoppable Spirit!
In an action-packed week, the Cate Boys Varsity Volleyball team showcased their unstoppable spirit on the court! They kicked off with an electrifying victory over Carpinteria High, dominating three sets with explosive plays led by the dynamic duo of Ben Richmond ’24 and Max DeVore ’25, who left their mark with killer kills and stellar digs. Their momentum surged into the Calabasas tournament, where they battled fiercely, proving their mettle against tough opponents. Despite a setback against St. Bonaventura, the team rallied behind the leadership of Lucian Tann ’26 and Oliver Lee ’24, whose defensive prowess and strategic plays kept the game alive. With a determination that knows no bounds, they bounced back in a thrilling tiebreak match, fueled by the unstoppable energy of Ben Richmond ’24, whose towering blocks and powerful kills led the team to a triumphant victory. Their journey reached a crescendo on Senior Night, where seasoned players like Clyde Kye ’24 and Dilan Lee ’24 were honored for their unwavering commitment and stellar performances, igniting the court with their passion and skill. The excitement continued as they swept Beacon Hill in a dazzling CIF Wildcard match, with setter Zadin Stephens ’25 orchestrating the offense flawlessly and Henry Bouma ’25 delivering thunderous kills from every angle. With each player bringing their A-game and the team’s unity shining bright, they march forward with unwavering determination, ready to conquer the next challenge in the upcoming CIF playoff round against Malibu High!
Kakeru Hirofuji ’27 wins Tri-Valley League Individual Finals
Rallying Triumphs: Cate Boys Tennis Seizes Victory in League Showdowns and Championship Glory
In a rollercoaster of matches, Cate Boys Tennis showcased their determination and prowess on the court. Despite a tough loss to Foothill Tech, the Rams bounced back with a commanding 13-5 victory against Laguna Blanca, demonstrating adaptability in adverse weather conditions and the absence of key players. Led by stellar performances from Kakeru Hirofuji ’27, Ethan Bloom ’24, and the doubles duo of Nate Newlove ’25 and Harry Su ’25, Cate secured notable wins against Villanova and swept the Tri-Valley League individuals in both singles and doubles. With their recent triumphs, including Hirofuji’s impressive run in the singles division and Newlove and Su’s consecutive doubles championship, the team gears up for their final league match against Dunn school.
8 seniors: Tyler Martinez, Julian Lee, Kyle Park, Crosby Rosenthal, Ari Seal, Burak Yanar, Elliott Murray Osborn, Kristian Scurtis.
Rams Roar to Redemption: A Lacrosse Tale of Triumph
In a rollercoaster of lacrosse showdowns throughout April, Cate’s journey epitomized resilience and determination. Despite stumbling against Dos Pueblos, the Rams rallied with unmatched ferocity on April 11th, overpowering the Royals with a stellar performance led by Tyler Martinez ’24, Tres Davidson ’26, and Johnny Foster ’25. Their spirits undeterred, Cate faced another formidable challenge on April 16th, but Quincy Thorne ’26 and Elliott Murray Osborn’s ’24 grit couldn’t seal the win against Dos Pueblos. However, redemption came in a misty battle against Santa Barbara on April 22nd, where Johnny Foster’s six-goal rampage led the Rams to a glorious victory. Yet, the pinnacle of their triumph arrived on Wednesday night against archrivals Thacher Toads, which was also Senior Day celebrating eight seniors dedication to Cate School. With Johnny Foster’s mesmerizing display, Cate soared to victory, showcasing the indomitable spirit of champions.
Victory Beckons: Cate’s Girls Lacrosse Playoff Bound
6 seniors celebrated on Senior Day: Mel Davidson, Sophie Alijani, Riley Pan, Shannon Murray, Frances Davis, Eleni Bhatia
From the exhilarating start against Dos Pueblos to the thrilling victory over Thacher, Cate’s girls lacrosse team showcased resilience and determination. The journey began with a dominant display against Dos Pueblos, led by Maia Holmes’s ’26 stellar performance and Jeeyou Jung’s ’25 impressive saves, setting the tone for a season of relentless pursuit. Despite the heartbreak of a triple overtime loss to San Marcos, Cate’s unwavering spirit shone through, epitomized by players like Maia Holmes ’26, Riley Pan ’24, and Lauren Hubbs ’26. Even in defeat against Sequoia, the team’s fighting spirit remained undimmed, with promising performances from rising stars like Carmen Lack ’26 and Lorelei Roof ’26. The season’s crescendo came with a resounding victory over Nordoff, fueled by the determination of every player, including standout performances from Riley Pan ’24, Harper Halbardier ’26, and the emerging talent of Francis Davis ’24. The culmination of their journey, a triumphant win against Thacher, underscored the team’s remarkable growth and cohesion, setting the stage for a thrilling CIF playoff run. As they embark on the postseason, Cate’s girls lacrosse team stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and teamwork, ready to seize their moment on the grandest stage.
Cate Track and Field: Breaking Records and Taking Gold
Everest ’24 has been presented the coveted Nick Carter Trophy for boys varsity 1600m. Image by Katie.
In a whirlwind of events, Cate’s track and field athletes showcased their prowess in the Santa Barbara County Championships and beyond. From Sophie Blank’s ’27 stunning double gold in the 1600m and 800m to Francesca Sutch’s ’25 silver medal sweep, the Rams left their mark on the track. Not to be outdone, Everest Schipper’s ’24 blazing finish secured him the coveted Nick Carter Trophy for the boys varsity 1600m, adding another chapter to Cate’s legacy. With impressive PRs and podium finishes abound, including Jordan Ryan ’26, Jackson Muller ’27, and Samuel Young’s ’26 breakthrough performances, the team’s resilience and dedication were on full display. As they gear up for the TCAA Championship, Cate’s track and field squad stands poised to conquer new heights, fueled by their relentless pursuit of excellence and the unwavering support of their coaches, parents, and school community.
Champion Surge: Cate Swim Team Shatters Records and Expectations
Phin ’25 recently set a new school record in the 100 breaststroke. Image by Katie.
In an electrifying series of swim meets, the Cate Swim Team showcased their talent, determination, and depth, leaving a trail of victories and shattered records in their wake. Against Carpinteria, Cate’s varsity boys set the tone early, securing wins in the medley relay and individual events, fueled by standout performances from Zach White ’24, Joba Samson ’25, and Devon Liang ’27. The girls’ team mirrored their success, with Jen Won’s ’26 remarkable triple win in the 200 IM, 100 fly, and relay events leading the charge. Not to be outdone, the JV squads displayed their prowess, with Seb Brine ’26 and Chloe Chen ’26 clinching victories and setting personal bests.
Jen ’26 sets new school record in 200 IM. Image by Katie
Venturing into Ventura, Cate faced a daunting challenge with depleted rosters but emerged triumphant, dominating the competition with stunning victories and a new school record in the 200 IM by Jenevive Won ’26. Stellar performances from Phin Stephenson ’25, Stella Rogers ’24, and Josiah Hansen ’27 propelled Cate to victory, while every athlete secured a spot in the championship or consolation finals, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown. With eyes set on CIF championships, Cate’s swimmers demonstrated resilience, speed, and sheer determination, proving that their unbeaten season was no fluke. As they gear up for the championship season, Cate’s Swim Team stands poised to make waves and etch their names in the records of swimming history.
As the regular season draws to a close and championship season looms on the horizon, the Rams of Cate School stand poised for greatness. From the diamond to the pool, their journey has been one of triumphs, unity, and unwavering spirit. With each athlete giving their all, breaking records, and seizing victory, they have proven that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible. As they gear up for the challenges that lie ahead, one thing is certain: the Rams will continue to roar into playoffs, leaving an indelible mark on the fields, courts, and tracks they grace.