Unsung Senior Athletes, Winter 2021

Ashley D’Ambrosia has been a member of the varsity track and field program since the eighth grade. A multi-event performer throughout her career and team captain this year, she competed in the pole vault (indoor best of 10-6), long jump (14-11.25), triple jump (31-8.75), 55 (7.86), 300 (46.86), 500 (1:39.41), and sprint relays.

“Ashley has been a staple of our winter track program,” said head girls coach Beth Kondorossy. “She’s a natural track athlete, and she has helped create a program of invested athletes. She’s the first to jump on the line if we are in need of an extra runner. She has the maturity to handle being a member of multiple event groups, and she’s able to balance the demands of each.  Ashley is a leader among her teammates and she has a calm presence about her that helps positively influence those around her.”

Also a captain, Regan Berger has competed as a sprinter in varsity track for four winter seasons. She’s recorded personal bests of 7.73 in the 55, 43.76 in the 300, and 1:29.89 in the 500 and has also run relay legs.

“Regan is competitive, and I love that about her,” Coach Kondo said.  “She pushes the intensity at practice each day. She makes her teammates better. She’s a natural athlete who approached the season to really get something out of it. Not only is it obvious she wants to improve as an athlete, she also wants what’s best for the team. Regan serves as an influential leader. Her leadership will be missed next year for sure.”

Makai Milton has competed in winter track for two years (after a season on the JV) in both sprint and middle distance events. His impact has been significant.

“Makai Milton,” said a teammate, “is one of the nicest guys I know. He provides a great atmosphere for the team.”

His lifetime bests include 8.54 in the 55, 43.92 in the 300, 1:12.92 in the 500, and 3:12.89 in the 1000.

“Makai has served as a steady and consistent leader,” said distance coach Matthew Richardson.  “Always dedicated and hard-working, he is known for his easy-going personality and encouraging words. He’s been a terrific mentor to younger athletes, striking the perfect balance between building his fitness and building lifelong friendships.”

Grace Cornell, who has balanced a commitment to athletics and Collegiate’s theater program with a challenging academic regimen, is a long-time member of the swimming team, mostly in sprint freestyle events.

“Grace is rarely seen on deck without a smile on her face,” said head coach Mike Peters. “Whether red-faced after a hard set or about to enter the cold pool, Grace approaches everything with a positive attitude. On deck at meets, Grace can be seen on the side of the pool cheering on each of her teammates.”

Likewise, Andrew Eastep managed a schedule including swimming, theater, and academics with aplomb. His athletic forte has been the butterfly, individual medley, and distance freestyle.

“Andrew is an absolute workhouse when it comes to swimming events,” Peters said. “Each week, he gladly approaches some of the most difficult races with drive and excitement.  As a sophomore, Andrew swam the 100 fly six weekends in a row to try to make the state cut.  Although he didn't make the cut until the next season, his drive to succeed was evident.”

Miriam Nimaga spent her senior winter as varsity girls basketball manager.

“She was incredible,” said Coach Rives Fleming. “As a great manager does, she ran the show for us, setting up and running the clock, spraying down the basketballs, helping us clean up, and doing anything else we as coaches asked. Miriam was always ahead of the game in figuring out ways to help and being proactive about doing them. She made our lives as coaches and players so much easier. She’s played a valuable role for this team. Just a great attitude about being the best she can be.”

As a junior Brooke Mattingly served as a manager on the varsity girls basketball team. This year, she earned a roster spot as a guard. Despite dealing with injuries that limited her participation, she provided a positive presence by encouraging her teammates in any way possible.

“What stands out about Brooke is her persistence and determination,” Fleming said. “Each day, she was on the sideline, working out and doing all that she could to stay in shape. The girls really noticed and appreciated her effort.”

Every team, says Futsal coach Page Chapman, needs a player who wreaks havoc upon the opposition.  For the Cougars, James Patterson was just that player.

“James’s speed and dribbling skills put ‘jump and go’ in our offense,” Chapman said. “When he carries the ball into the offensive end, he draws a crowd. His presence opens up scoring opportunities. He may not always score the goal or even get the assist, but he helps create the play. Last year, our opponents were so focused on him that they often left other players unmarked.  James’s talent and enthusiasm for the game help make Collegiate soccer the outstanding program that it is.”
~Weldon Bradshaw