Goose Creek CISD September 2023

GOOSE CREEK CISD

GCCISD.NET

2023 FALL EDITION

GOOSE CREEK CISD ATHLETES THRIVING ON FIELDS OF PLAY BEST ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ BAYTOWN’S

®

Fuel your passion. It’s Game Day.

Scan me!

# 1 SCAN THE QR CODE # 2 DOWNLOAD THE APP

FREDDY’S LOCATIONS

3 GET FREE FREDDY’S

FBISD.08/2023

2023-2024 INSTRUCTIONAL CALENDAR

MISSION: Developing The Whole Child

December S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 5-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .State Testing Day 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . District Early Release Day 22-29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . WINTER BREAK March S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 30 31 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Early Release/PLC 11-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .SPRING BREAK 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . .HOLIDAY/Bad Weather Day 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HOLIDAY 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PLC/Student Holiday JuNE S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 101112131415 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 18-21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . State Testing Day ] ] [ September S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

october S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1011121314 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Early Release/PLC 16-17 . . . . . . . . . .Exchange Day/Student Holiday 18-20. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Student/Staff Holiday January S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10 11 12 13 14 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . WINTER BREAK 4 . . . . . . . Teacher Workday/Student Holiday 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PLC/Student Holiday 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . First Day of Instruction 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .HOLIDAY/Bad Weather Day 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 101112131415 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 25-27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . New Teacher Orientation [ ] [ April S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 101112 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PLC/Student Holiday 9-11, 15-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . State Testing Day July S M T W T F S 1

November S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PLC/Student Holiday 20-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HOLIDAY August S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 101112 13 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 3, 7-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Staff Development Day 4, 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Teacher Workday 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Convocation 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . First Day of Instruction [ February S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PLC/Student Holiday 8-9 . . . . . . . . . .Exchange Day/Student Holiday May S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .State Testing Day 23 . . .Last Day of Instruction/Early Release 24 . . . .Teacher Workday/Student Holiday 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Student/Staff Holiday ]

FIRST SEMESTER August 14-October 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 days October 23-December 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 days First Semester Total .................................81 days SECOND SEMESTER January 8-March 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 days March 18-May 23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 days Second Semester Total.............................88 days Goose Creek Memorial . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-421-4400 IMPACT Early College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4802 RobertE.Lee .....................281-420-4535 Peter E . Hyland Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4555 POINT Alternative Center . . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4630 RossS.Sterling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .281-420-4500 Stuart Career Tech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4550 ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS Alamo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4595 Stephen F. Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4620 Dr. Antonio Bañuelos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .281-420-1230 James Bowie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4605 George W. Carver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4600 Dr. Johnny T. Clark Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .281-420-7450 David Crockett . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4645 Lorenzo De Zavala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4920 Harlem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .281-420-4910 Highlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4900 Bonnie P. Hopper Primary . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4685 Jessie Lee Pumphrey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-421-4460 Mirabeau B . Lamar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4625 Liles Early Learning Academy . . . . . . . .281-421-4422 San Jacinto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4670 Ashbel Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .281-420-4615 William B. Travis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4660 Victoria Walker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .281-421-1800 JUNIOR SCHOOLS Baytown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .281-420-4560 Cedar Bayou . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4570 E.F.Green.........................281-421-4450 George H. Gentry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4590 Highlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .281-420-4695 Horace Mann . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-420-4585 HIGH SCHOOLS Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .281-420-4800

www.gccisd.net facebook.com/gccisd twitter.com/gccisd instagram.com/gccisd

Calendar Legend First Day of Instruction

New Teacher Orientation

State Testing Day

Designated Bad Weather Day

Exchange Day/ Student Holiday

Professional Learning Day (PLC)/Student Holiday

District Early Release Day

Early Release/Half Teacher Workday

Teacher Workday/Student Holiday

Student/Staff Holiday

Staff Development Day

Early Release/PLC

[ Beginning of Report Period k ----- Ending of Report Period ]

Revised 6/2/23

pregame

VYPE social Twitter: @vypehouston Facebook: facebook.com/vypetexas Instagram: @vype_goosecreekCISD

Snapchat: @vype.houston TikTok: @vype_texas001

STAFF PUBLISHER VYPE MEDIA, LLC

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Shane Hildreth CHIEF CONTENT OFFICER Matt Malatesta CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER Derek Dusek VP OF OPERATIONS & FINANCE Justin Bull CREATIVE DIRECTOR Daniel Tiller

DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY Bradley Collier CAMPUS COORDINATOR Jackson DiPasquale STAFF WRITER Matthew Ogle CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER Carrie Follis CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jamey Wright, Bradley Collier, Doug Brown, Lorin Cook

GCCISD Continues to Strive for Greatness

CONTACT INFORMATION VYPE Media, LLC 1334 Brittmoore Road, Suite 2901 Houston, TX 77043 EMAIL: info@vypemedia.com PHONE: 713-969-7105 WEBSITE: vype.com

Goose Creek CISD is the best district in the great State of Texas! We believe that, as we continue to Grow Giants. We are excited to continue to grow and prove that our student athletes can and will compete with anybody in the state as proven through our countless successes. VYPE magazine has been a valuable asset for Goose Creek Athletics. It enables us to promote our athletic programs, not only throughout the Greater Houston Area, but our community as well. We are thankful to continue our partnership with this Fall edition. The Fall starts off quickly as Lee, GCM and Sterling’s football programs are all looking for major improvements after competing with young teams a year ago. Coach Finn, Coach Ragsdale and Coach Toomer are all back to make a push into the playoffs as they compete in the tough District 8-5A. Last season, Lee High School claimed the “Baytown Cup” by defeating GCM in Week 9 and Sterling in Week 10, in one of the most historic rivalries in the state. Volleyball is also primed for a strong playoff push with Sterling leading the pack led by Candace Southall-Burkhalter. The Rangers made their way through District 17-5A play as the runner-up and found themselves advancing to the second round for the first time in a handful of years. Goose Creek Memorial, led by Alicia Nava, will attempt to claim a playoff spot, bringing in a class loaded with talent. The Ganders, under the direction of new head coach Canji Rhodes, have every intention of showing Baytown that they belong in the

same category as the heavy-hitters. Coming off a State qualifier in cross country (Brock Glasscock), the Rangers plan to continue to thrive at a state level, hoping to send multiple athletes past the Regional Meet. Both GCM and Lee have sent several of their athletes to the Regional Meet in recent years and both programs will be back in the hunt. campuses, led by an Area Round qualifier and District Champion Sterling team. GCM also made their way into the team tennis playoffs, with Lee finishing just behind them in the standings. Coach Funderburg at Lee has taken it very personally and has been pushing his kids all summer in hopes of claiming one of those playoff spots for 2023. We are very proud of all the accomplishments our student athletes have made inside GCCISD. They are among the state’s very best both in competition and in the classroom. It’s worth mentioning that the Sterling volleyball program is also among the nation’s best academically as it was awarded the USMC/AVCA Team Academic Award for the 31st consecutive year, which ties the national record. We are very proud of this group as well as the other numerous all-state, all-region and all-district academic standouts. We will continue to Grow Giants and continue to prove why we are the best district in the State! Lee Martinez Director of Athletics Finally, Baytown tennis has been continuously improving at all three

VYPE is published by Vype Media, LLC. Reproductions in whole or in part without permission are prohibited. VYPE is not responsible for the return of unsolicited artwork, photography or manuscripts and will not be responsible for holding fees or similar charges. All digital submissions and correspondence will become property of VYPE. EDITORIAL DISCLAIMER All rights reserved. For editorial matters, please contact the editor. The views of contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the policies of VYPE nor that of the publishers. VYPE has a clear commitment to inviting and publishing corrections of fact and clarifying errors of context. Corrections of errors and mistakes are a necessity in obtaining credibility in the magazine. VYPE supports and encourages our staff and contributing writers and photographers to make any potential error known to our editor. ADVERTISING DISCLAIMER All rights reserved. The views and opinions of VYPE advertisers does not reflect that of VYPE High School Sports Magazine. In accordance with the NCAA Bylaws, VYPE and its advertisers have complied in all advertisements present in VYPE.

GOOSE CREEK CISD

GCCISD.NET

2023 FALL EDITION

GOOSE CREEK CISD ATHLETES THRIVING ON FIELDS OF PLAY BEST ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ BAYTOWN’S

on the cover

Photo by Bradley C. Collier

BAYTOWN’S BEST: Goose Creek Memorial’s Aracely Nunez, Lee’s LeVay Duncan Jr., Lee’s Lesly DeJesus, Sterling’s Katy Barger, Lee’s Joshua Marquez, Sterling’s Malachi Godfrey and Lee’s Joshua Huerta grace the 2023 GCCISD/VYPE Fall Preview.

2 \\ GOOSE CREEK CISD \\ SEPT 2023 \\ gccisd.net

Win, Lose, or Draw We Do it Together

Welcome back Goose Creek CISD sports fans! I am so excited, fully engaged and truly energized for the 2023-2024 school year and look forward to what it will bring. Our Athletic department and so many of our student athletes have worked tirelessly throughout the summer, working to perfect their craft, so that they can “bring the heat” to our thousands of fans and supporters this coming season. Athletic Director Lee Martinez and Assistant Athletic Director Greg Smith and their team of more than a hundred talented coaches pour every ounce of themselves into our students. They serve as mentors, surrogate parents and extended family to the more than a thousand students that participate in sports throughout our district this school year. You will find them on campus before the sun rises and long after the sun sets because that’s how much they love our athletes. They also work closely with our teachers to ensure every student is on top of their studies and eligible to participate while exuding leadership in the classroom as well. First and foremost, on the minds of every staff member in the district is our call to action to stress the importance of academics for each of the 24,000-plus students we educate, as we all know that education is the

key to a brighter future! It is evident that academics plays an important role in the lives of our student athletes, as many of them continue to excel on the field and in the classroom. Our scholar athletes were well represented in the top 25% of our Class of 2023 and that speaks volumes to the dedication of our educators here in Goose Creek CISD, but even more so of the support they receive from their families at home. As we prepare for the 2023-2024 athletic season, I want to encourage our Baytown, Highlands and West Chambers communities to continue to show their support for EACH and EVERY athletic endeavor they can make it to. From football to volleyball, soccer to swimming, basketball, baseball, softball, tennis, track, and more-we have it all and then some in Goose Creek CISD. Our students deserve our support and whether we win, lose, or draw, we will continue to be their GIANT fans. Let’s have another fantastic year in the Goose and I can’t wait to see you in the stands! Best Regards, Randal O’Brien, Ed.D Superintendent of Schools

goose creek cIsd Board Members

Howard Sampson District 1 – Vice President

Mercedes Renteria III District 2 – Board Member

James “Jim” Campisi District 3 – Assistant Secretary

Richard Clem District 4 – Board Member

Hellen Berrott-Tims District 5 – Secretary

Tiffany Guy District 6 – President

Jessie Martinez District 7 – Board Member

gccisd.net // SEPT 2023 // GOOSE CREEK CISD // 3

Vaping: What Families Need to Know To Help BY: AMANDA KENNINGTON, HEALTHY COMMUNITY SCHOOL COORDINATOR

According to the 2022 National Youth Tobacco Survey, more than 1 in 4 youth vape or use e-cigarettes daily. Vaping is inhaling and exhaling vapor from a vape device or e-cigarette. Vape products usually contain nicotine (extracted from tobacco), a liquid and several other chemicals that are heated by the device so they can be breathed in. Nicotine is the primary agent in regular cigarettes and e-cigarettes, and it is highly addictive. It causes the user to crave a smoke and suffer withdrawal symptoms if the craving is ignored. Nicotine is a toxic substance. It raises blood pressure and spikes adrenaline, which increases heart rate and the likelihood of having a heart attack. E-cigarettes do not create a harmless “water vapor” - they create an aerosol that can contain harmful chemicals. Secondhand vapor isn’t safe either because the vapor emitted when someone exhales contain a variety of dangerous substances. There are many unknowns about vaping, including what chemicals make up the vapor and how they affect physical health over the long term. By now, it seems clear that using e-cigarettes, or vaping, is bad for your lungs. But research about exactly how vaping affects the lungs is in the initial stages. What we do know right now is that several lung diseases such as EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping use-Association Lung Injury), lipoid pneumonia, and collapsed lung are associated with vaping. Other risks of vaping include: • addiction • mental health issues • sleep issues • lung damage • breathing in chemicals that cause cancer. For students, there are additional impacts that can affect them over time: • social changes with family and friends • academic issues which include difficulty focusing • difficulty with impulse control • physical activity concerns that impact ability to participate in sports. No matter how many of their friends and family members have tried vaping, the bottom line is that it is not safe.

and caregivers about the risks of vaping, district-wide tobacco-free policies, and connects students who vape with cessation programs. GCCISD utilizes the ASPIRE (A Smoking Prevention Interactive Experience) program to deliver tobacco prevention education to teens and adolescents at a self-directed pace. ASPIRE is a free online prevention education resource from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Parents can talk to their children about vaping and answer questions they might have. When talking with your child about vaping: • focus on their health and safety. • ask open-ended questions. • focus on listening to your child. • introduce and practice refusal skills, or ways that your students can say no to vaping. Common things to look for if you suspect your child is vaping are: • USB or flash drives that are vape devices. • pods or cartridges that contain the vape liquid and flavoring scents. Vaping impacts behavior, your child may become more anxious or irritable, their appetite may decrease, or their mood or behavior may be different. In addition, physical symptoms of vaping may include cough or sore throat, headaches, or breathing issues. Parents know their child best, and the goal is to convince them to quit and that there are resources available to help. The Truth Initiative offers This is Quitting to Texas young people ages 13-24. Youth can text VAPEFREETX to 88709 to receive free, anonymous, 24/7 support through this program. Parents of young vapers can text QUIT to 202-899-7550 to receive messages designed specifically for them, including tips and advice for helping support their young person quit.

In December 2019, the United States raised the minimum age to purchase tobacco and e-cigarette products to 21 and many states across the country are working to comply with federal law. Vaping companies are targeting kids by using tools like social media to influence them to try their products. Companies are also taking everyday products that kids and teens use and turning them into devices that can be used to vape. These devices that are now available to help students hide vaping at school and at home include: • Pens • backpacks • hoodies • smart watches • phone cases Vape devices are small, easy to hide, and they run on batteries making the devices difficult to spot. It is up to each community to hold the industry accountable and support regulations to help keep students and families safe. Vaping is a topic of ongoing concern for the GCCISD’s School Health Advisory Council, a group appointed by the school district who provides recommendations to create healthy school environments for all students. The committee plays an important role in strengthening the connection between health and learning by helping parents and community stakeholders reinforce the knowledge and skills children need to stay healthy for a lifetime. “Education and communication are paramount in getting a handle on the vaping epidemic, Patricia Pena, GCCISD Health Services Coordinator & SHAC Executive Committee member said.”If we can get parents to understand (the dangers) then they can help us with the students.” GCCISD provides preventative measures such as education for students, parents,

memorial

Avery La Montagne

STAND UP! PATRIOTS, GOOSE CREEK MEMORIAL ATHLETES BLEED RED AND BLACK

memorial

FLIPPING THE SCRIPT

RAGSDALE LOOKS TO VETERANS TO REESTABLISH COMPETITIVE STREAK

Isaiah Green

Jalen Green

PLAYERS TO WATCH Jalen Green (RB) Adrian Arellano (OL) Gabrian Valencia (LB) Brendon Kennon (DB)

Gabrian Valencia

Brendon Kennon

I THINK HEADING INTO OUR SECOND YEAR – MYSELF AND MY STAFF – WE’VE HAD AN OFFSEASON UNDER OUR BELTS, THAT INVOLVED HARD WORK AND WE UNDERSTAND WHAT WE WANT TO BUILD HERE. THE CULTURE WE’RE BUILDING REQUIRES THE SENIORS TO LEAD THE WAY, AND I THINK THAT’S DEFINITELY POINTING US IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION TOWARDS A SUCCESSFUL SEASON. IT’S A CULMINATION OF TAKING THE WORK DURING THE OFFSEASON AND SUMMER AND TRANSITIONING IT ONTO THE FIELD IN THE FALL. DANIEL RAGSDALE - GOOSE CREEK MEMORIAL FOOTBALL

Adrian Arellano

Royton Williams

memorial

ON THE CUSP STARS OF GCM VOLLEYBALL WILL PROPEL THE PROGRAM TOWARDS SUCCESS

Jayda Henderson

I’slyn Edwards

LAST YEAR SAW THE PATRIOTS NARROWLY MISS OUT ON THE POSTSEASON, FINISHING FIFTH IN THE DISTRICT WITH A RECORD OF 7-8. HOWEVER, THAT ISN’T INDICATIVE OF JUST HOW GOOD THIS TEAM CAN BE. DESPITE THE TOUGH COMPETITION THEY FACE IN THEIR DIVISION – NAMELY BARBERS HILL, STERLING AND CROSBY – GCM COULD SURPRISE EVERYONE THIS UPCOMING SEASON. WITH SEVERAL KEY PIECES, PARTICULARLY LSU-COMMIT SANAA DONAIE (JR. MB) AND ARACELY NUNEZ (SR. OH) RETURNING TO THE FOLD, COACH ALICIA NAVA MIGHT JUST HAVE THE STARP-POWER NEEDED TO BRING MEMORIAL BACK TO THE POSTSEASON FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 2020.

8 \\ GOOSE CREEK CISD \\ SEPT 2023 \\ gccisd.net

SHE’S BACK! NUNEZ’S JOURNEY FROM SIDELINE TO STAR AT GCM \\ Matthew Ogle

over a year due to an injury she suffered in her sophomore season. “I tore my ACL during a match a couple of years ago,” Nunez said. “So, I was completely out of the game for the whole season and it was painful. “I’d never really been injured before, so it was a pretty traumatic experience. When I came back, I was a more well-rounded player and have never stopped trying to get better.” While it may have been odd for her to be on the bench rather than on the court in that timespan, Nunez’s experience during her recovery didn’t make her complacent in the slightest. “My observation skills got much better,” she said. “Whenever I was out, I would be helping out with stats on the bench. I also saw how players would

AMONG THE TALENTED INDIVIDUALS ON GOOSE CREEK MEMORIAL’S VOLLEYBALL TEAM, SENIOR OH ARACELY NUNEZ HAS ESTABLISHED HERSELF AS ONE THE TEAM’S KEY FIGURES. Considering the impressive explosiveness and awareness she’s shown on the court, it’s no wonder Nunez has become an offensive weapon from the outside spot for both GCM and her club team (Xcel). Now that she enters her senior season, it goes without saying that she’ll be the alpha of the group. “I think I have pretty good leadership skills,” said Nunez. “When I’m with my team, I feel like I’m naturally friendly and try to lead by example, which I feel like they pick up on when it’s game-time.” It’s not difficult to see why Nunez has such a rapport with her teammates. Her likable personality makes it easy for her volleyball peers to interact with her. However, it might be surprising to hear that she also plays golf in her free time. Though the two sports may seem unrelated, Nunez has gained a valuable trait through it. “Patience,” she said. “I’m continually learning how to be patient in both sports, especially with the short game in golf. It can be really difficult, since I just started playing but it’s so fun and has helped me to focus when I’m trying to accomplish something.” Nunez certainly has experience in being patient, after she was sidelined for

She expects the same from her team this Fall. “We missed out on the playoffs a year ago,” she said. “This season, I really see our potential. Our main goal is the postseason, and I know we’ll be willing to do whatever it takes to achieve it.”

“I think about it a little bit,” said Nunez. “I try to not play with fear because doing that would cause me to play down. I have a brace to help support it, so I will just go all-in from now on.” After returning to volleyball in her junior year, Nunez has done nothing but improve.

react and how they moved on the court. That helped me a lot, seeing the game from a different perspective.” Given the severity of an ACL tear, one can imagine that Nunez might have been worried about reinjuring her knee when she stepped back onto the court.

gccisd.net // SEPT 2023 // GOOSE CREEK CISD // 9

memorial

SERVING SUCCESS SENIOR-LADEN CLASS COULD BE THE DIFFERENCE FOR GCM

Megan Zamudio

Swayam Gupta

10 \\ GOOSE CREEK CISD \\ SEPT 2023 \\ gccisd.net

PLAYERS TO WATCH Bianca Hernandez

Jadah Menard Nathan Perez Megan Zamudio

Mariam Malhi

Nathan Perez

Bryce Tompkins

Jadah Menard

COACH ISMAEL DUTCHOVER IS BACK TO DIRECT THE PATRIOTS, WHO ARE COMING OFF A YEAR OF NUMEROUS SUCCESSES ON THE COURT. WHILE THERE WILL BE CHALLENGES TO FACE AMONG THE CROWDED DISTRICT, DUTCHOVER CAN LOOK TO THE EXCEPTIONAL NUMBER OF UPPERCLASSMEN TO RISE TO THE OCCASION. LOOK FOR SENIORS BRYCE TOMPKINS, MICHAEL ANDRADE, SWAYAM GUPTA AND MARIAM MALHI TO HAVE BIG YEARS TO CAP OFF THEIR HIGH SCHOOL CAREERS.

gccisd.net // SEPT 2023 // GOOSE CREEK CISD // 11

memorial

Abraham Lopez

Alex Rodriguez

Pamela Toledo

PUSHING THE LIMIT YOUNG GCM STANDOUTS BUILDING A FOUNDATION

12 \\ GOOSE CREEK CISD \\ SEPT 2023 \\ gccisd.net

GOOSE CREEK MEMORIAL CROSS COUNTRY IS LOADED WITH YOUNG TALENT THAT HAVE ALREADY BEGUN TO MAKE A NAME FOR THEMSELVES. THE PATRIOTS WERE EXEMPLARY IN THE 2022 DISTRICT MEET. SO MUCH SO THAT THEY HAD OVER A DOZEN ATHLETES QUALIFY FOR THE REGION-III CHAMPIONSHIP. COACHES WILLIAM FREEMAN AND ROMAN HUIZAR WILL BE WORKING THE BOYS AND GIRLS TO TAKE THAT A STEP FURTHER. JUNIOR ALEX RODRIGUEZ AND JOHN ABARCA (SO.) WILL LOOK TO BE THE FRONTRUNNERS ONCE AGAIN, WHILE SENIOR LUNA LERMA COMPETES FOR A TOP SPOT ON THE GIRLS’ SIDE.

John Abarca

Patricia Torres

gccisd.net // SEPT 2023 // GOOSE CREEK CISD // 13

memorial

THE INFANTRY HIGHLANDS, GREEN JUNIOR HIGHS READY TO JOIN THE CAUSE

EF Green’s Juan DelaCruz, Valeria Tovar and Isaiah Santana

EF Green’s Diego Toledo, Oswald Jacquet, Amonte Phipps and Kaidon Gladney

Highlands Cross Country

EF Green’s Annecia Driver, A’meyai Wilridge and Gabriella Martinez

Highlands Football

EF Green’s Sophia Estrada, Jacob Clabon, Sage Rodriguez, Shaun Pethers and Alena Lopez

Highlands Volleyball

Kayleigh Strubhart, Highlands Tennis

14 \\ GOOSE CREEK CISD \\ SEPT 2023 \\ gccisd.net

GCCISD Launches New Communication Platform to Encourage Stronger School-Home Connection SPECIAL TO THE NEWS – PARENTSQUARE

The district is launching Q Communication Powered by ParentSquare—a simple and unified school-to-home communication platform—to reach and engage every parent, helping ensure all parents can actively participate in their children’s education, at the beginning of the 2023 2024 school year. The software will be available for staff and parents to use on their computers or mobile devices. By unifying multiple tools into one communications app and service, Q Communication Powered by ParentSquare provides a seamless experience for parents and staff. Parents will be able to keep track of news, activities, and events from all their children’s schools in one place. GCCISD hopes that Q Communication Powered by ParentSquare’s intuitive, two-way platform will foster greater communication and family involvement. With Q Communication Powered by ParentSquare, parents can enjoy photos posted by teachers, fill out forms and permission slips, sign up for parent

and help empower everyone within the school community to stay connected and informed. For more information on ParentSquare, please visit www. parentsquare.com. ABOUT PARENTSQUARE™ ParentSquare is relied upon by millions of educators and families in over 44 states for unified, effective school communications. ParentSquare provides parent engagement tools that work from the district office to the individual classroom, supported by powerful metrics and reporting. ParentSquare’s technology platform features extensive integrations with student information and other critical administrative systems, translation to more than 100 languages, and app, email, text, voice, and web portal access for equitable communication. ParentSquare (http:// www.parentsquare.com), founded in 2011, is based in Santa Barbara, CA.

teacher conferences, check grades and attendance, and much more. School staff and parents can engage in both one-to-one and group messaging with real-time language translation. “Effective school-to-home

communication has never been more important, which is why Goose Creek CISD adopted the Q Communication Powered by

ParentSquare communication platform,” Superintendent Dr. Randal O’Brien said. “We’re looking forward to reaching 100% of our families no matter where they are, unifying all our communications tools, and adopting an eco-friendlier approach by reducing the amount of paper used to send important communications.” The district’s partnership with Q Communication Powered by ParentSquare will enable stronger engagement between school and home,

Download the ParentSquare app today! Stay involved with your student's learning and activities at school. From anywhere.

Baytown Lee

Josiah Joseph

FLOCK the LEE GANDERS READY TO FLY TOGETHER AS ONE

NEXT IN LINE CAN DUNCAN LIVE UP TO HISTORIC LINEAGE OF LEE’S QB1? \\ Matt Malatesta

SOME CONSIDER BAYTOWN LEE HIGH SCHOOL THE BIRTHPLACE OF THE PASSING GAME IN THE STATE OF TEXAS. Former Gander coach Dick Olin founded the concept of a State 7-on-7 Tournament decades ago, with the goal of getting his signal-callers some reps. The lineage of QBs at Lee is historic starting with Jermaine Alfred (Baylor), which led to the likes of Clint Stoerner (Arkansas), Ell Roberson III (Kansas State), Olin’s stepson Drew Tate (Iowa) and Brian Johnson (Utah). How about this for full circle? Brian Johnson is now the offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, where he coaches star QB Jalen Hurts. Who has just been hired to be the offensive coordinator at Baytown Lee? Averion Hurts Jr., the older brother of Jalen Hurts. So, let’s say that senior QB Levay Duncan Jr. is in good hands. Could he be in line to be the next great Gander QB? Duncan is coming off of a junior season when he threw for over 1,500 yards and 16 TDs. The dual-threat QB rushed for more than 300 yards and another six scores. “Coach Hurts has helped me improve my mechanics so much,” he said. “I’m more prepared to play the position and understand the schemes a lot better.” Heavy is the head that wears the crown, however, which means that much is expected of the QB1. “It’s feels great to be the leader of this team, but a little weird also,” he laughed. “I feel that everyone is looking up to me to do everything right. That is making me a better player and person. Having people cheering for you and supporting you in this position is a blessing and gives me hope. “My goal is to throw for 300 yards a game and lead us to the playoffs,” he said. “I believe in this team.” Let’s see where this new high-flying offense can take the Ganders. Can they repeat history?

gccisd.net // SEPT 2023 // GOOSE CREEK CISD // 17

Baytown Lee

CITY CHAMPS LEE WANTS MORE IN 2023

Denzel Taylor

PLAYERS TO WATCH Josiah Joseph, WR LeVay Duncan Jr., QB Joshua Huerta, LB Joshua Marquez, LB

Nickolas Rodriguez

WE ARE VERY EXPERIENCED IN SOME KEY POSITIONS THIS YEAR AND WE ARE THE CITY CHAMPS THREE YEARS RUNNING. WE WANT A PLAYOFF SPOT THIS YEAR AND TO NOT STOP THERE. THESE KIDS HAVE BOUGHT IN AND WORK SO HARD. THEY DON’T CARE WHO THEY PLAY, THEY ARE FEARLESS.

TIM FINN - BAYTOWN LEE FOOTBALL

Joshua Marquez

Olwen Cuevas

Baytown Lee

BIGGER, FASTER, STRONGER LEE VOLLEYBALL BRINGING NEW ENERGY WITH NEW COACH

PLAYERS TO WATCH Reyna Hernandez, Libero Rmyni Smith, Hitter Jordan Jn-Marie, Setter Andrea Lopez, Hitter

Rmyni Smith

20 \\ GOOSE CREEK CISD \\ SEPT 2023 \\ gccisd.net

Andrea Lopez

Jordan Jn-Marie

I HAVE HIGH EXPECTATIONS THIS SEASON AND I FEEL LIKE IF WE PUT IT ALL TOGETHER, WE CAN BE A CONTENDER. I LIKE OUR KILLER INSTINCT. THESE GIRLS LOVE THE GAME, THEY LOVE THE SPORT, AND THEY LOVE THE GYM. I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING THAT PASSION ON THE COURT. I’M COMING BACK TO COACHING AFTER BEING AWAY FROM THE SPORT FOR SEVEN YEARS AND I’M CHANGING A FEW THINGS. WE ARE GOING TO BE BIGGER, FASTER AND STRONGER, AND I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING HOW THEY ARE GOING TO ADAPT TO THE NEW SYSTEM. CANJI RHODES - BAYTOWN LEE VOLLEYBALL

Reyna Hernandez

Baytown Lee

CLOSING THE GAP LEE TENNIS IS FOR EVERYONE

PLAYERS TO WATCH

BOYS Judah Romero Evan Graham Phillip Young

PLAYERS TO WATCH GIRLS Ibeth Lopez-Torres Gia Graham Kassandra Matamoros Lopez

Clarissa Tong

Evan Graham

Kasandra Matamoros Lopez

WE TRY AND MAKE IT FUN FOR THE KIDS HERE. WE ARE A ‘NO-CUT’ PROGRAM AND ENCOURAGE STUDENTS TO COME OUT WHETHER THEY HAVE EXPERIENCE IN TENNIS OR NOT. LEE TENNIS IS AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE EVERYONE CAN FIND A PLACE. THIS YEAR, WE ARE IN A REBUILDING MODE AFTER GRADUATING SEVEN SENIORS FROM LAST SEASON. WE ARE GOING TO EQUAL LAST YEAR’S RECORD OF 10-7 AS WE WILL BUILD FOR THE FUTURE. BRANDON FUNDERBURG - BAYTOWN LEE TENNIS

Khloe Cardin

Phillip Young

Baytown Lee

I WAS A COLLEGIATE CROSS-COUNTRY RUNNER AND THIS IS MY FIRST YEAR COACHING CROSS. I’M EXCITED TO SHARE MY EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE WITH OUR TEAM AND I HOPE WE IMPROVE FROM IT. IT TAKES A LOT OF GRIT AND HEART TO COMPETE IN THIS SPORT. I LOVE THE CAMARADERIE ON THIS TEAM AND HOW THEY MOTIVE EACH OTHER.

KIERSTIN DUTTON - LEE BOYS XC COACH

PLAYERS TO WATCH BOYS Alejandro Saenz Ricardo Lima Hernandez

PLAYERS TO WATCH

GIRLS Lesly DeJesus Heavan Faith Alexa Gonzalez

Coaches Kierston Dutton and Crystal Aguero

Ricardo Lima Hernandez

HITTING THE TRAIL LEE CROSS COUNTRY SETTING OWN PACE

24 \\ GOOSE CREEK CISD \\ SEPT 2023 \\ gccisd.net

WE ARE PRETTY LOADED AT THE TOP OF OUR LINEUP AND

ARE LED BY LESLY (DEJESUS). SHE NEARLY MADE THE

REGIONAL MEET A YEAR AGO AND SHE IS LEADING BY

EXAMPLE FOR THE REST OF OUR TEAM. WE WILL BE VERY

COMPETITIVE IN DISTRICT THIS YEAR.

CRYSTAL AGUERO - LEE BOYS XC COACH

Alexa Gonzalez

Isaiah Mireles

Heaven Perkins

Baytown Lee

THE 411 DEJESUS PREPARES TO GO THE DISTANCE FOR LEE CROSS \\ Matthew Ogle

it ever since.” VYPE: Has that passion gotten stronger as you’ve improved? DEJESUS: “Yes. I really have to give credit to my coaches. They support every decision we make and have pushed us to our limits, which is something that is necessary in this sport.” VYPE: What are your goals for this year? missed out on the Regionals by one spot a year ago. That was mostly because I lacked confidence, but now I trust in the training I’ve been put through and I know what I’m capable of.” VYPE: Take me through a day in your training life. DEJESUS: “I really only train on the weekends. That consists of my long runs. So, I will wake up at 5 am and get ready to run. I mostly choose treadmills nowadays because of the heat, but after that, I make sure to rehydrate and refuel.” VYPE: What do you want to do in the future? DEJESUS: “Right now, my goals are to become a teacher and coach track and cross country.” VYPE: What do you like to do outside of the sport? What’s something people might not know about you? DEJESUS: “Well, I really like to bake during some of my free time. It’s fun to try new recipes and see what I can create.” DEJESUS: “My goal is to advance to Regionals. I

VYPE: What made you get into cross country? DEJESUS: “Well, I first got into cross country starting in elementary school. Other people might have hated the Pacer Test, but it really unlocked my passion for running and I’ve kept up with

in which she advanced to the UIL Area Meet, Dejesus intends to step up her game this Fall with a reinvigorated confidence to surpass her goals. This is the 411, where we get a more in-depth look at Lee senior Lesly Dejesus.

WHEN IT COMES TO LONG DISTANCE RUNNING, AN

INDIVIDUAL SUCCEEDS OUT OF SHEER WILL AND ENDURANCE. Fortunately for Baytown Lee, one of their premier cross country runners – senior Lesly Dejesus – has endurance to spare. Coming off a 2022 season

26 \\ GOOSE CREEK CISD \\ SEPT 2023 \\ gccisd.net

THE NEXTGEN BAYTOWN AND HORACE MANN JUNIOR HIGHS BUSTING AT SEAMS WITH TALENT

Horace Mann’s Jaelyn Hatcher, Gabryl Rivas and Ava Austin

Baytown Junior’s Annlee Dixon and Mario Salinas

Horace Mann’s Claude Eugene, Ivan Torres, Gabryl Rivas and Colten Pack

Baytown Junior’s Demetris Marin, Jayden Clark, Hunter Arnold and Chris Brown

Horace Mann’s Noah Coghlan, Lida Castillo, Jordan Gonzalez and Ava Austin

Baytown Junior’s Julian Ortega, Sherilyn Jaimes and Angel Vasquez

Baytown Junior’s Zariya Ramirez and Marisa Perez

Horace Mann’s Khloe Ramirez, Justyce Powell and Jaelyn Hatcher

gccisd.net // SEPT 2023 // GOOSE CREEK CISD // 27

Wait No More: District Debuts Transportation App During Summer Session

BY: KRISTYN HUNT CATHEY, APR – DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS As the population continues to increase in the Baytown and Highlands areas, the district expects to see an increase in the student population, which currently sits at 24,000-plus students. Over half of the current student population are bus riders and the district expects that number to increase over the next 3-5 years. This means more cars and buses on our already over-crowded roads and highways. The Transportation department, led by Rick Walterscheid, and his route supervisors, spend several months during the summer creating and revising the bus routes for the new school year and though they factor in potential traffic issues (such as an increase in car riders), their goal is to always pick up and return students as close to the posted route times as possible. Applications such as Life360 are popular amongst parents that want to stay on top of their child’s location, including on the school bus. The department recognized the need for a system that provides parents with real-time notifications on their child’s location while they are on the district’s school buses. Enter StopFinder. This application will allow parents and guardians to accurately track their child’s school bus in real time. The easy-to-use app is secure; only authorized users will have access to school bus information. Stopfinder, created by the district’s routing software company, Transfinder, is free to parents and guardians and allows users to customize when they receive alerts about their children’s bus location. The app is also powerful communication tool, providing parents with an easy way to stay informed and receive notifications instantly. Because Stopfinder works seamlessly with the district’s routing system, Routefinder Plus, district transportation leaders can target communications to specific regions that may only be relevant for that area. For example, if a road is closed and a bus will be late, only parents/guardians of students affected by that road closure will be contacted. Walterscheid and his team are excited to share this good news with district families. “This tool will help the Transportation office become even more efficient and responsive, because Stopfinder will answer that most important question parents have: ‘Where is my child’s school bus?’ he said. “The ability to conduct targeted communication will strengthen the ties we have with our community.” In addition to real time GeoAlert notifications showing the location of the bus and the ability to better communicate, Stopfinder also provides school bus stop and schedule information, which is very important to parents. As the 2023 school year progresses,

additional features will be introduced into the Stopfinder app. Features including “student ID ridership” and “ETA to bus stop information” will provide parents more information than ever before. The district did a soft launch of the app this summer, to much success, with students enrolled in the additional school days program. The full roll out of the application will occur in fall 2023. “Stopfinder was created with a lot of care by parents for parents,” said Transfinder President and CEO Antonio Civitella. “Just like with everything else having to do with student transportation, we had to get this right. The expectations parents have are understandably high. We believe Stopfinder will give parents and guardians the peace of mind they crave – knowing that their children are where they are supposed to be.” To learn more about Stopfinder, visit Stopfinder.com. Stopfinder is the all-in-one parent engagement app designed by parents for parents to keep parents – in real-time – where your child’s bus is and when your student arrives at school. With Stopfinder, you no longer have to wait: ; For the bus ; To find the bus ; For bus stop and schedule information ; For a text from your child that he or she arrived at school or home ; On the phone

Baytown Sterling

Briana Galvan

SADDLE up THE ROSS STERLING RANGERS ARE READY TO RIDE

Baytown Sterling

PERFECTING THE ROUX TOOMER HAS KEY INGREDIENTS FOR BUILDING A COMPETITIVE PROGRAM

Jerimiah Reed

Gage Woodard

PLAYERS TO WATCH Brennon Allen, WR/DB Malachi Godfrey, OL Enijah Russell-Evans, RB/LB John Smith, QB

John Smith

Gerrell Reed

ROUX IS A LOUISIANA TERM, WHICH IS THE MAIN INGREDIENT IN MOST CAJUN-STYLE FOODS, SO I KIND OF TURNED THAT INTO OUR SAYING. WHAT WE’RE TRYING TO BUILD IS THE PERFECT ROUX. EACH YEAR WE GET CLOSER, BUT OUR ROUX IS LIKE OUR FOUNDATION – OUR KIDS UNDERSTAND WHAT WE’RE TRYING TO DO. IT’S ABOUT DOING THINGS THE RIGHT WAY AND UNDERSTANDING WHAT EACH KID BRINGS TO THE TABLE. ROBERT TOOMER - STERLING FOOTBALL

Brennon Allen

Enijah Russell-Evans

Baytown Sterling

FAMILY MAN GODFREY’S RAPPORT WITH TEAMMATES MAKE STERLING FOOTBALL A VIBE \\ Matthew Ogle

from his family, who keeps him goal-oriented in football. “I started playing when I was really young, probably when I was five,” he said. “I stopped around the second grade, but then I got back into it because my Mom and family encouraged me to. This is my thing, I love it.” Another potential motivation for Godfrey comes from his extended family. Cousin Charles Godfrey, who went from playing at Baytown Lee to the University of Iowa, played in the NFL from 2008 to 2015 (Carolina Panthers, Atlanta Falcons). “I would say he (Charles) is my biggest inspiration,” Godfrey said. “He’s shown me that if someone from my family can do it, I know I can do it too. I just want to do what I can to succeed and be the best version of myself.” Family certainly means a great deal to Godfrey. In addition, the chemistry between him and his teammates is palpable, which is why he sees them as a home away from home. “The best memories are my time here, especially with the other linemen,” he said. “We like to go to Cici’s Pizza and pig out – going a few rounds just for fun. There’s been a couple of times where we had a few barfs, but it’s all fun. We’re all a family, we hang out off the field and do everything as a team. It’s just what we do.” Win or lose, it’s about building a foundation of family and friends as he pursues his ultimate goals at Sterling and beyond.

and guard spot. Despite facing the prospect of potentially playing college ball, Godfrey still keeps his mind close to home. “My mentality for this year will be how it’s always been… just keep working,” said Godfrey. “We [Sterling] still want to win and go after a State Championship. So, right now, recruiting isn’t my biggest concern. The team’s success is what I’m focused on.” His selfless mindset is likely something he learned

“I think what makes me unique is that I’m a good spirit,” said Godfrey. “I feel like I have a good work ethic, especially alongside the other linemen. We have great chemistry, and we like to put the work in. This is what we do, and I feel like that will help us down the road.” As he enters his junior year, Sterling’s big-man already holds offers from various college recruiters – most notably Colorado State – for the production he’s shown from both the tackle

IT IS NOT UNCOMMON FOR FOOTBALL PROGRAMS TO FEATURE A PLAYER WHO DEFINES THE ROLE OF THE “HARDWORKING BIG-MAN”. Malachi Godfrey embodies that role and then some for Sterling High. Weighing in at just over 300 pounds and towering over his teammates with a 6-foot-5 frame, Godfrey is truly a force to be reckoned with in the trenches. Physicality aside, Godfrey brings much more to the table.

32 \\ GOOSE CREEK CISD \\ SEPT 2023 \\ gccisd.net

THE ENTERTAINER STERLING’S BARGER AIMS TO PUT ON SHOW FOR SENIOR YEAR \\ Matthew Ogle

EVERY SO OFTEN, A TEAM WILL BE GRACED WITH AN ATHLETE WHO’S THE LIFE OF THE PARTY. Sterling volleyball’s Katy Barger takes on that role with ease. The senior Ranger has been a major contributor for the program since donning their blue jersey. Most recently, Barger led Sterling to an appearance in the UIL Area Round, which earned herself District 17-5A Offensive MVP honors. However, her volleyball journey began early into her adolescence. “When I was younger, my babysitter played volleyball and she was able to go play in college,” Barger said. “Ever since then, that was my main goal, getting to better myself in order to play at a higher level.” Mission accomplished it would seem, considering she will be playing for Houston Christian University a year from now. “The feeling of finally committing was something else,” said Barger. “I chose HCU because they’re very close to home. I went on a few visits that were pretty far away and I knew I didn’t want to be too far from my family. I love my parents and I depend on them a lot. Plus, I love the area it’s in and the program really spoke to me.” Given that she also excels for her club team, TAV Houston, it makes sense that Barger would be getting attention from college recruiters. However, it also means that she doesn’t have too much free time.

Katy “The Entertainer” will be suiting up alongside her Sterling teammates one last time this Fall. After reaching Round No. 2 last year, she will have her sights set on adding to that standard. “I think the heart of this team can help us go further,” Barger said. “All the seniors in this group have been playing together since we were in eighth grade. We’ve grown together and this is the last time playing volleyball for some. So, we aren’t going to go down easily.”

she said. “If we’re in the locker rooms before games, we’re listening to music, we’re dancing. There has to be someone to initiate that atmosphere, and I feel like that’s always been me. “Even if we’re on the court, I like to crack jokes in stressful situations to try to reduce the tension, and make sure everyone is having fun. I think that’s the best thing about working with teammates, especially those who share that same passion.”

“For some people, I know it can be difficult to commit yourself so much,” said Barger. “There’s really no break in between school and club volleyball, so you’re in it all year. With all the work that goes into the sport, getting worn out or tired of it can be a challenge. But I love the sport, so it’s what I have to do.” Aside from her six-foot frame and athleticism, what makes Barger have such an impact on the court? “I just like to have fun,”

gccisd.net // SEPT 2023 // GOOSE CREEK CISD // 33

Baytown Sterling

WE’RE HERE BARGER, HEBERT HEADLINE HIGH-POWERED RANGERS OFFENSE

Karmyn Hebert

Valerie Rosas

34 \\ GOOSE CREEK CISD \\ SEPT 2023 \\ gccisd.net

Bailee Payne

Kadince Grothe

THE RANGERS ARE COMING OFF A STELLAR YEAR ON THE COURT, IN WHICH THEY TOOK SILVER (11-3) AMONG A LOADED DISTRICT, PRIOR TO MAKING AN APPEARANCE IN THE UIL-5A AREA ROUND. UNDER THE DIRECTION OF COACH CANDACE SOUTHALL-BURKHALTER, STERLING WILL ONCE AGAIN BATTLE WITH RIVAL BARBERS HILL FOR THE TOP SPOT. HCU-COMMIT KATY BARGER (SR. OH) RETURNS TO POWER THE OFFENSE AFTER RACKING UP OVER 400 KILLS TO EARN DISTRICT 17-5A OFFENSIVE MVP HONORS A YEAR AGO. SHE’LL BE LINKING UP WITH THE LIKES OF KARMYN HEBERT (SR. DS) AND BAILEE PAYNE (SR. OH) AS THEY HOPE TO PUSH FURTHER INTO THE PLAYOFFS COME NOVEMBER.

gccisd.net // SEPT 2023 // GOOSE CREEK CISD // 35

Baytown Sterling

PLAYERS TO WATCH Natalie De La Cruz

Roland Mendez Kailynn Orosco Braydon Webb

Roland Mendez

Natalie De LA Cruz

ON PATROL STERLING PRIMED TO BUILD ON IMPRESSIVE 2022 CAMPAIGN

36 \\ GOOSE CREEK CISD \\ SEPT 2023 \\ gccisd.net

Edward Villareal

Kailynn Orosco

I PLAYED HERE FOR FOUR YEARS PRIOR TO MY COACHING CAREER. I THINK USING THAT EXPERIENCE OF BEING A PLAYER, UNDERSTANDING THE PROGRAM FROM THAT SIDE OF IT, AND THE IMPORTANCE OF GETTING THE KIDS TO BUY IN FROM AN EARLY AGE HAS BEEN A BUILDING BLOCK TO WHERE WE ARE NOW – WINNING A DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP AND ADVANCING TO THE REGIONAL QUARTERFINALS LAST YEAR. JOHN TREMMEL - STERLING TENNIS

Brayden Webb

Raul Torres