VYPE Concordia Lutheran July 2022

C O N C O R D I A L U T H E R A N H I G H S C H O O L

C L H S - T X . O R G

2021-22 EDITION

C O N C O R D I A L U T H E R A N C O N T I N U E S T O B U I L D B R A N D ; C U LT U R E VOLLEYBALL, BASKETBALL, BASEBALL LEAD WAY IN 2021-22 + THE AMENDOLA-ERA BEGINS

Leading Orthopedic Care to KEEP YOU MOVING

Our sports medicine specialists in Northwest Houston can help keep your body in motion. At Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, we know every movement matters. Our board-certified sports medicine specialists offer: • The latest imaging and technology • Advanced nonsurgical treatments • Minimally invasive procedures • State-of-the-art physical and occupational therapy Whether you’re suffering from simple aches and pains or dealing with a complex injury, we can get you back on your feet — and keep you moving. Your health and safety are our priority. We are taking every necessary precaution to keep you safe.

Spring

Willowbrook

45

59

Towne Lake

8

610

Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Houston Methodist Orthopedic Injury Clinic — offering same-day care

20 convenient locations across Greater Houston

Same-day appointments for injuries.

Schedule an appointment: houstonmethodist.org/sportsmed 281.737.0999

SPIRITUAL LIFE

SPIRITUAL LIFE

At Concordia, it’s all about Jesus!

What sets CLHS apart from many schools is that we can process ALL OF LIFE through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. The staff at CLHS work hard to create a safe environment for everyone. Students who believe are able to deepen their love for Jesus and love those who don’t believe, while students who are still asking questions about faith are able to explore Jesus in theology class and respect their peers as they practice their faith each day. All students take a theology class during each of their years at Concordia. Chapel+ takes place each week and is led by the Worships Arts class students and teacher.

Global Embrace

Our Global Embrace also extends to Costa Rica. CLHS has been building homes there since 2012 and 24 students went on a trip in March 2020 before the COVID-19 pandemic. The next trip is planned for Spring 2023 where a home will be built with the funds that have been raised through Concordia’s Homecoming fundraising efforts. Over the last few years, over $20,000 has been raised by the students to help build houses for families in need.

Concordia’s Global Embrace starts right here in Tomball and the greater Houston area with our Christian Social Action class. Over 250 former and current students have served in the community, where they volunteer at several different service sites in the Tomball area. Every year, some of these students continue to partner with the service organizations after the class ends.

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 1

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

PREGAME

FRIENDS OF CONCORDIA In 2021-2022, Concordia’s strong academics continued, so did our many talented extracurricular activities: FINE ARTS • Choir won the TAPPS 6A Vocal Music State Championship in the Spring; our 8th State Title in the last 13 years

S O C I A L

@vypehouston /vypetexas

@vypetexas @vype.houston

VYPE STAFF PUBLISHER VYPE MEDIA, LLC CEO Shane Hildreth

CHIEF CONTENT OFFICER Matt Malatesta CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER Derek Dusek

• Band won the TAPPS 6A Instrumental Music State Championship in the Spring • Art finished 3rd at the TAPPS 6A State Competition for the 6th consecutive year • Swept TAPPS 6A Fine Arts of the Year Awards for 3rd consecutive year for top Fine Arts Teacher, Female Student, and Male Student AG PROGRAM • State Fair of Texas Grand Champion and Rodeo Houston Reserve Grand Champion Genesis Bow in Archery • Reserve State Champion Female Sporting Clays Team at 2022 FFA Ag Clays State • Tournament • 3rd place Overall Female American Trap as well as Mixed Sporting Clays teams at 2022 FFA Ag Clays State Tournament • Texas High School Bass Fishing Regional Qualifier ATHLETICS • The Cheer team finished as State Runner-Up in the Spirit Division of the TAPPS State Competition • Boys Basketball finished as State Runner-Up at the TAPPS 6A State Tournament • The Volleyball and Baseball teams reached the State Tournament for the 8th consecutive year in both sports • Girls Cross Country claimed 4th Place at the State Cross Country Meet None of this would be possible without your partnership and generous support of Concordia and the continued blessings God has poured out for us. Please continue to keep us in your prayers as we grow to serve more students and live out our mission of Building Lives of Excellence upon the Foundation of Christ. Partners in Christ, Joel R. Bode Head of School

MANAGING EDITOR Joshua Koch CREATIVE DIRECTOR Daniel Tiller CLHS PUBLICATION & VYPE LOGO DESIGNER Carrie Friess - Meadowlark Creative PHOTO EDITOR Bradley Collier CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Lily Cox INTERNS Kasey Dixon, Kennedi Cooper, Rebel Malatesta

CONTACT INFORMATION MAILING ADDRESS: VYPE Media, LLC 1334 Brittmoore Road, Suite 2901 Houston, TX 77043 EMAIL: info@vypemedia.com

PHONE: 713-969-7105 WEBSITE: vype.com

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.

SPECIAL THANKS CONCORDIA ATHLETIC AND ADVANCEMENT OFFICES

C O N C O R D I A L U T H E R A N H I G H S C H O O L

C L H S - T X . O R G

2021-22 EDITION

S O C I A L CLHS

ON THE COVER Photo by BRADLEY COLLIER

@clhstxathletics /ConcordiaTomball

@clhstxathletics SaderNation TV

Congratulations to Presley Mondick , Drew Wendler, Kylie Bray, Alex Petrovic, Jacob Hudson and Katelyn Denley for gracing the cover of the 2021-22 Concordia Lutheran year in review.

C O N C O R D I A L U T H E R A N C O N T I N U E S T O B U I L D B R A N D ; C U LT U R E VOLLEYBALL, BASKETBALL, BASEBALL LEAD WAY IN 2021-22 + THE AMENDOLA-ERA BEGINS

2 \\

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ J U LY 2022 \\ v y p e . c om

PREGAME

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED Dear Crusader Fans, It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 2021-2022 Concordia VYPE Media Magazine. This is a magazine solely dedicated to the success of the Concordia Athletic and Fine Art Departments over the past year. As you read through this magazine, it is my hope that you will be able to not only see the tremendous success of Concordia Athletics, but also be able understand the great amount of commitment and personal investment our coaches and athletes put into the process to make all of these successes happen. Here at Concordia, we are proud members of the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) and compete at the highest level of TAPPS in the 6A division. In total, the Concordia Athletic Department fields 20 different athletic programs throughout the school year. However, it is through athletics at Concordia, we truly strive attain three main goals. Our first and foremost goal is to always make sure we are striving to be the best representation of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, on and off the playing surfaces. We want our coaches and players to live and show their faith through their actions in competition, in the locker room and in the community. Secondly, we strive to be an extension of integrity and character to our opponent by displaying modestly in victory and being gracious in defeat. In accomplishing this, we expect our coaches and athletes to have integrity and character that shines to others as we compete. Finally, we will commit ourselves to being a major competitive force throughout TAPPS, and the entire state of Texas, in both the private and public schools. In striving to accomplish this goal, we expect our coaches to train and hold our athletes to the highest possible standards and expectations, in both skill and mental development as athletes. In all, for all three of these goals to be met, we have to be fully committed to make it possible. That is why at Concordia, we are constantly looking at all ways we can improve ourselves on and off the playing surfaces and will do all that we need to do to make our student-athletes the very best they each can be. In the end, please enjoy this glimpse into the Concordia Athletics and Fine Arts Departments, and know that we would truly love for you to come and experience our Concordia Family in person. Thank You and Go Crusaders! Mat t Neidigk Athletic Director Concordia Lutheran High School, ‘92

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 3

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

feature

THE

\\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a

Head of School Joel Bode, Head Coach Willie Amendola and Athletic Director Matt Neidigk

4 \\

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ J U LY 2022 \\ v y p e . c om

CONCORDIA LUTHERAN GOT THEIR MAN. One of the names most synonymous in Houston high school football came out of retirement in the winter to take over 'Sader Nation... Willie Amendola. Amendola won a Class 5A DII UIL State Title in 2011 with the upstart Dekaney Wildcats. Dekaney went 14-2 and defeated Cibolo Steele 34-14 in the championship game. Soon after, he took on a new role overseeing athletics on a macro level as Spring ISD’s Athletic Director. He also ran point for the construction of Planet Ford Stadium in Spring – a state-of-the-art facility on the north side of Houston. But his passion for coaching never diminished, especially after retiring from Spring ISD a few years back. Amendola Brings Energy, Experience, Success to ‘Sader Nation

“Concordia Lutheran is a great fit because their administration supports extra-curricular activities to the fullest,” Amendola said. “The systems are in place; the kids want to work hard and there is tremendous community support.” Amendola hit the ground running this offseason with his signature positive energy and vast experience in program building.

“

The systems are in place; the kids want to work hard and there is tremendous community support.

”

“We came in with the purpose of instilling the team covenant – Common Purpose, Mutual Dependency and Shared Honor – and we preached it every day during the offseason,” Amendola said. “The kids saw how it translated to be successful.” Amendola laid out four phases of his roll-out that included character education, weights, skill-training and spring training. “There has been great energy and the players are buying in,” he said. “It showed all offseason, leading up to our Spring Game. It carried over into summer workouts. They have been crushing it in the weight room and their hard work will pay off this season.” The long-time head coach had two points of emphasis heading into the spring that needed to be addressed. “We wanted to improve the strength and physicality of our offensive line and our ability to run to the ball and be explosive on impact on defense,” the veteran coach said. “I think we accomplished both of those.” He was also tasked to put together a coaching staff. Jacob Vasquez will stay on to be his offensive coordinator, while Ed Ramirez comes in to be the defensive coordinator. Former Cypress Ridge head coach Gary Thiebaud will coach the defensive line, while John McWilliams will coach the offensive line. “We have some great experience on this staff who have seen it all,” he said. “They are great men. Look, we are all excited to be here with one goal – coaching these kids the right way and getting them to believe that they can be successful.”

FALL

PHOTO feature

Gianluca Decillo

Ian Coates

Dana Schippanoski

Haley Manjack

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 7

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

FALL

PHOTO feature

Ryan Escalante

Faith Wilkins

Maci Hollier

2021-22 CLHS CHEERLEADERS

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 9

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

FALL

PHOTO feature

Drew Wendler

Presley Mondick

Emma Wolf

Addy Polk

Kylie Bray

Andrew Shrewsbury

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 11

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

FALLWRAP

feature

2021 CLHS FOOTBALL

FOOTBALL

Crusaders Finish Third in District; Elder Shines

\\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a

blue and will lace up the spikes for the track team this spring. Defensive lineman Peyton Smith earned a second-team, all-state selection along with linebacker Mark Shrewsbury. Hudson Yezak (Kicker) and Luke Allred (DL) were all-state honorable mentions. Coach Bobby Lindquist retired after the season and Willie Amendola takes over the reigns of the program. Amendola won a UIL Class 5A State Title in 2012 as the head coach of the Dekaney Wildcats.

THE CONCORDIA LUTHERAN CRUSADERS FINISHED THIRD IN DISTRICT 2-DI, GOING 4-3 IN CONFERENCE PLAY WITH WINS OVER ANTONIAN PREP, ST. PIUS X, SAN ANTONIO CHRISTIAN AND ST. JOHN XXIII. The Crusaders fell to Bishop Lynch 30-7 in the opening round of the playoffs. Concordia Lutheran was led by senior Tate Elder. The Iron Man was named to the all-state, first-team for his play at defensive back and earned a second-team, all-state nod as a running back. Elder had a decorated career in the silver and

12 \\

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ J U LY 2022 \\ v y p e . c om

THE CONCORDIA LUTHERAN GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY TEAM FOLLOWED UP A HISTORY-MAKING, SECOND-PLACE FINISH AT THE 2020 TAPPS STATE MEET WITH A SOLID FOURTH-PLACE FINISH IN 2021. Led by coaches Michelle Lueveno and Jennifer Schranz , the Crusaders are building into a consistent private school state power. Senior Ava Zindler paced Concordia Lutheran, finishing 13th overall with a time of 12:54.2. She has left a tremendous legacy and played a huge role in rebuilding the Crusader cross country program. The future is in good hands. Four State qualifiers will return in 2022. Freshman Cara Shirley finished 19th at State, followed by sophomore Megan Groeschel (20th). Junior Jessica McGavern came in 32nd at State, while freshman Gretchen Kastenschmidt (48th) rounded out the Top 5. She is the younger sister of Lauryn Kastenschmidt , who finished fourth overall in 2020. The ‘Saders are here to stay. … On the boys’ side, it was senior William Karim who carried the torch for Concordia Lutheran at State. Karim finished 14th overall with a time of 17:24 in the 5K. He signed with Savannah College to run at the next level. Following Karim was junior Matthew Kangas (37th), sophomore John Hadrick (61st), junior Gary Coates (68th), senior Ben Guidry, sophomore Joseph Lyons and freshman George Stucker. The ‘Sader boys can build off their State experience as they try and improve their times in 2022. Girls Continue to Build into Power Program; Boys have Bright Future CROSS COUNTRY UNDER THE DIRECTION OF FIRST-YEAR HEAD COACH BRANDON SMELTZER, CONCORDIA LUTHERANWENT 36-10, FINISHED SECOND-PLACE IN DISTRICT TO EVENTUAL STATE CHAMPION ST. AGNES AND FELL TO THE TIGERS IN THE STATE SEMIS IN FOUR GAMES. Sophie Keene earned her second first-team, all-state selection as she wraps up her career at Concordia Lutheran. She will play her college ball at Baylor after leaving a tremendous legacy. Also joining Keene with all-state honors were second-teamers Sydney Whitfield and Haley Manjack, and Adelyn Polk was an honorable mention. All four all-state selections were seniors. Back in the fold will be Faith Wilkins and Kylie Bray, who were second-team, all-district selections. VOLLEYBALL Crusaders Advance to State Semis; Says Goodbye to Keene \\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a \\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a

2021 CLHS GIRLS XC

2021 CLHS BOYS XC

2021 CLHS VOLLEYBALL

FOR MORE PHOTOS, VISIT US ON INSTAGRAM: @clhstxathletics

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 13

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

FALL

feature

L EAV I NG

\\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a

Tate Elder FOOTBALL TRACK & FIELD

The four-year starter dominated the TAPPS volleyball landscape since her freshman season. Keene helped lead the Crusaders to the State Final Four four times in her career. She will bring instant offense to the Baylor Bears. VOLLEYBALL BAYLOR SIGNEE Sophia Keene The Concordia Lutheran Crusaders finished fourth overall in the 2021 TAPPS Cross Country State Meet. Leading the way was Ava Zindler, who took on more of a leadership role this season. Zindler finished her career with a pair of Top 15 finishes. She signed with Southern Arkansas. CROSS-COUNTRY TRACK & FIELD Ava Zindler

Will Karim has been the face of the Crusader Cross Country and Track & Field teams over the past few years. The senior earned the Junior Crusader Award a year ago for his accomplishments in athletics and in the classroom. Most recently, he finished 14th overall with a time of 17:24 in the 5K at the TAPPS Cross Country State Meet in the fall. He will run at Savannah College. CROSS-COUNTRY TRACK & FIELD Tate Elder was Mr. Versatility for the Crusaders. The senior was a first team, all-state selection as a defensive back and a second-teamer at running back. He also returned kicks for Concordia Lutheran. On the oval, he helped lead his relay team to TAPPS State a year ago. His leadership in both sports was also his calling card. Will Karim

14 \\

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ J U LY 2022 \\ v y p e . c om

Arujun Umashankar

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 15

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

WINTER

PHOTO feature

Kayley Brennan

Alayna Lanier

Jacob Hudson

Kate Ostermiller

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 17

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

WINTER

PHOTO feature

Elijah Brown

Adele Neuhaus

David Gibbons

Carly Winkler

Braeden Pratt

Kennedy Barrett

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 19

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

WINTER

PHOTO feature

Colin Otten

Eric Brooks

Emerson Swanner

Grace Bourque

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 21

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

WINTERWRAP

feature

BASKETBALL

2021-22 CLHS BOYS BASKETBALL

Hardcourt Heroics

\\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a

THE CONCORDIA LUTHERAN BOYS WERE UP TO THEIR WINNING WAYS ON THE HARDWOOD IN 2021-22. THE ‘SADERS RAN THROUGH DISTRICT 4-6A WITH A 10-0 RECORD AND WENT 27-9 OVERALL. Concordia reached the TAPPS 6A State Title game with playoff wins over Antonian and Central Catholic before falling to John Paul II in the Finals. Coach Bill Honeck leaned on his senior floor general Trey Miller, who was a first-team, all-state selection, averaging over 17 points, 6 assists and 3 steals per game. Move-ins Jacob Hudson (Klein Oak), Jesse Fuller (Tomball) and David Gibbons Jr. (Tomball) made huge contributions along with Nick Savona this season. Hudson was a first team, all-state selection, Fuller was a second teamer and Savona was an honorable-mention pick. Gibbons was a first-team, all-district choice, while Patrick Jannes, Grant Saxton and Michael Peltier Jr. were second teamers. For the girls, the Crusaders finished fourth in district play, going 18-14 overall; 4-4 in district . Coach Matt Neidigk’s squad fell in a heartbreaker to Incarnate Word 38-35 in the Area Round. Leading the way was senior Maddie Mueller, a first-team, all-state selection, who averaged over 16 points per game. Mueller has run the point since her freshman season and will play her college ball at Trinity University. Others receiving postseason honors were Adele Neuhaus (first-team, all-district), Jaclyn Weyer (second-team), Kayley Brennan (second-team), Olivia Smith (second-team) and Carly Winkler (honorable mention). Neahaus, Brennan and Winkler will be back in 2022-23.

2021-22 CLHS GIRLS BASKETBALL

Rylie Weyer

Olivia Smith

Jesse Fuller

22 \\

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ J U LY 2022 \\ v y p e . c om

CONCORDIA LUTHERAN HAD A SOLID PERFORMANCE IN THE POOL THIS WINTER – THE GIRLS FINISHED SEVENTH IN THE TAPPS EASTERN REGION AND THE BOYS FINISHED THIRD. At the State Meet , however, sophomore Grace Bourque won bronze in the 200 yard freestyle to lead all Crusaders. Elijah Brown finished fourth in the 100 yard breaststroke. But back to the Regionals, the girls won silver in the 400-yard freestyle relay. Bourque led the way in Regionals too, winning gold in the 200-yard freestyle and silver in the 500-yard freestyle. Emerson Swanner missed the podium finishing fourth in the 100-yard freestyle but earned bronze in the 100-yard backstroke. On the boy’s side, Brown won silver in the 100-yard breaststroke and Benjamin Witt earned a third-place finish in the 100-yard freestyle. The ‘Saders boys won silver in the 400 yard freestyle. The future is bright at Concordia Lutheran as their top swimmers were all underclassmen. Youngsters Perform Well in the Pool SWIMMING \\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a

2022 CLHS SWIMMING

Audrey Eaves

Timothy Witt

2022 CLHS BOYS SOCCER 2022 CLHS GIRLS SOCCER

SOCCER

For the boys, Colin Otten was an all-state and first-team, all-district selection on defense, while Evan Kastenschmidt was a first-team, all-district offensive standout . Kastenschmidt will return for his senior year in 2022-23.

THE BOYS' AND GIRLS' SOCCER TEAMS AT CONCORDIA LUTHERAN REACHED THE POSTSEASON BUT FELL IN THE FIRST ROUND OF THE TAPPS PLAYOFFS. The girls were led by a senior-laden squad. Kate Ostermiller earned a first team nomination on defense, while Sarah McWilliams and Katelyn Denley were second-teamers on offense. Julia Wiley and Jaden Bosworth were honorable mentions.

Fútbol Squads Reach Postseason; Bounced in First Round

FOR MORE PHOTOS, VISIT US ON INSTAGRAM: @clhstxathletics

\\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 23

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

WINTER

feature

L EAV I NG

\\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a

Trey Miller BASKETBALL

Madeline Mueller Kate Ostermiller

BASKETBALL

SOCCER TRACK & FIELD

Running the point guard position as a freshman is a tall order. That was four years ago. Time goes by so fast. Mueller earned another all-state selection for her play this season and has recently signed with Trinity University, where she will play college basketball. Another big milestone for Mueller was scoring 2,000 points as a Crusader.

When the Concordia Lutheran girls soccer team needed a defensive stop, they looked to first-team, all-district defender Kate Ostermiller. This season was extra special as Kate was able to play with her sister Sara, who is a freshman. Ostermiller did about everything on the track as well. She ran the three relays, the open 200 meters, did the triple jump and threw the shot put.

What a career Trey Miller had for the Concordia Lutheran Crusader basketball team. The all-state point guard averaged over 19 points per game, five rebounds, five assists and over four steals during his senior season. He led the ‘Saders to the TAPPS State Finals. He was the District MVP and was named to the all-state tournament team. He signed with Incarnate Word.

feature

Carter Leads Concordia Lutheran Basketball in Paying It Forward OF THE SEASON BESTASSIST \\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a THE

School last year, in one of the nation’s toughest neighborhoods – Sunnyside. The Concordia Lutheran community collected everything from ties, coats, jeans, dresses and basketball shoes to donate to the Rams’ program. “I want to thank our student-athletes and their parents for what they did,” he said. “They just don’t know what it means to me and that Kashmere community.”

involved with something like this. She was also my inspiration.” Carter ’s mission hit close to home. “I grew up in that sort of neighborhood,” he said. “I lived on hand-me-down clothes. To see the smiles on the faces of the kids when we arrived was really special. It was a great turn out and I will continue to grow what we’ve started.” Carter and the Crusaders’ first kindness trip was to Worthing High

THE CONCORDIA LUTHERAN JUNIOR VARSITY BOYS BASKETBALL AND GIRLS VARSITY TEAMS PAID IT FORWARD TO HOUSTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT’S (HISD) KASHMERE HIGH SCHOOL THIS WINTER THROUGH THEIR ASSISTANT COACH JUSTIN CARTER AND THE RANDOM ACT OF KINDNESS FOUNDATION. “I was really inspired by the struggle everyone was going through two years ago with COVID,” he said. “It was instilled by my Grandmother to give back. To be kind. I just had to get

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 25

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

academics ACADEMICS

student life

Concordia’s students are involved...

63% participate in athletics

42% participate in the agriculture program

33% participate in fine arts

With 15 Advanced Placement courses and 11 Dual Credit courses through Lone Star College, Concordia’s upper-level curriculum provides plentiful opportunities to learn at an advanced level and get a head start on college credits while still in high school.

Dual Credit Classes Offered (through Lone Star College)

Advanced Placement Courses Offered

Calculus BC Statistics Biology Physics I

College Algebra Pre-Calculus Elements of Calculus

Calculus Statistics Trigonometry Finite Mathematics Chemistry II (two semesters) English III Language and Composition (two semesters)

English III Language and Composition English IV Language and Composition U.S. History World History Geography Government

Spanish IV Spanish V Art Drawing

Art 2D and Design Art 3D and Design

26 \\

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ J U LY 2022 \\ v y p e . c om

academics ACADEMICS

our faculty & staff

Concordia’s faculty and staff are highly trained and well qualified in order to equip students to make a great impact in the world. Continuing education is a priority, with over 57% of Concordia’s faculty holding advanced degrees. In fact, the school committed over $600,000 to continuing education and professional development in the 2021-22 school year.

Years in Education

The faculty, staff, and administration of Concordia are committed to the mission and ministry of the school and bring with them a variety of experience and a desire to connect with students in a personal, meaningful way.

0-5 6-10

15%

37%

11-15 16-20 21+

18%

13% 16%

Student Faith Life

Concordia students’ faith lives are diverse and represent membership in a variety of affiliations.

7% 1%

6%

36%

Lutheran Catholic Non-Denominational Methodist Baptist

12%

12%

17%

Other None

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 27

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

AGRICULTURE

Agriculture

Concordia’s Agriculture program strives to grow, teach, and transform their members into stewards of their community with a mission of promoting leadership, personal growth, and successful career choices. Concordia Lutheran 4-H/FFA participates in various projects related to agriculture. These projects showcase the members’ talents through community service, stewardship, and competitions. The Agriculture program at Concordia began in 2015 and now boasts over 200 students participating each year. In 2021-2022, Concordia enjoyed having three full-time ag advisors to help support their many activities. During the 2021-2022 School Year, over 200 students participated in the Agriculture program and 75 students participated in FFA/4-H.

Competition results: • State Fair of Texas Grand Champion and Rodeo Houston Reserve Grand Champion Genesis Bow in Archery • Reserve State Champion Female Sporting Clays Team at 2022 FFA Ag Clays State Tournament • 3rd place Overall Female American Trap as well as Mixed Sporting Clays teams at 2022 FFA Ag Clays State Tournament • 4-H Archery Indoor State Genesis Bow Champions • 4-H Archery Outdoor 3D 2nd Place Female • Regional Qualifier for Texas High School Bass Fishing • San Antonio Stock Show Open Trap Lewis Class 2 Champion • Numerous Top 5 Placings for the Vet Med Team at Invitational Contests • $25,000+ in earned Scholarships for livestock and shooting sports

28 \\

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ J U LY 2022 \\ v y p e . c om

Tate Elder

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 29

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

SPRING

PHOTO feature

Sean Fitzpatrick

Savanna Clary

Meryl Eaves

Nolan Traeger

Anders Kleyn

Paxton Huempfner

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 31

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

SPRING

PHOTO feature

Karalyn Rich

Abby Plagens

Oliver Burnette

Sofia Micklas

Alex Petrovic

Jessica McGavern

Hudson Yezak

Joshua Henson

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 33

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

SPRING

PHOTO feature

Caleb Blackburn

Jayden Schoppe

Alessandra Dewenter

Kate Ostermiller

Jax Traeger

Yaotong Liu

Jake Cook

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 35

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

SPRINGWRAP

feature

TRACK & FIELD

\\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a

THE CONCORDIA LUTHERAN TRACK TEAMS ADVANCED TO THE STATE MEET. The boys finished 11th overall as a team, led by Ryley Klefstad, who finished with a silver medal in the pole vault with a jump of 15-feet . Michael Peltier (23.17) took bronze in the 200 meters. Oliver Burnette finished fourth in the 400 meters with a time of 51.54, while William Karim had a fifth-place finish in the 800 meters with a time of 2:00.14. The 4x200-meter relay team of Peltier, Tate Elder, Paxton Huempfner and Isaac Parikh placed sixth with a time of 1:32.14. Pole vaulter Abby Groeschel finished seventh overall with a vault of 8’06’ to lead the girls.

TOP PHOTO: Ryley Klefstad, William Karim, Paxton Huempfner, Tate Elder and Oliver Burnette

BOTTOM PHOTO: Anna Talley, Adele Neuhaus, Kate Ostermiller, Shelby Hadrick and Jessica McGavern

TENNIS

\\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a

THE TENNIS TEAMS AT CONCORDIA LUTHERAN WERE BOTH REPRESENTED AT THE STATE TOURNAMENT. The doubles team of Yaotong Liu and Gavin Borne carried the banner for Concordia Lutheran in tennis. The Crusader pair reached the TAPPS Class 6A State Semis, falling to eventual State Champs David Boylan and Blake Muschalek of Trinity Christian Academy. On the girls side, Ellie Waltman and Ashley Ells also advanced to State but fell to the eventual State Champs from Ursuline Academy. LACROSSE

Above: Gavin Borne, Chase Cook, Joshua Henson, Anders Kleyn and Jack Sherman Below: Ryan Bell and Yaotong Liu

Sofia Micklas, Alessandra Dewenter, Ellie Waltman and Cecilia Dailey

The 2022 CLHS Lacrosse Team

\\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a

CLHS FINISHED 4TH IN THE TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL LACROSSE LEAGUE (THSLL) CLASS D SOUTH DISTRICT IN THE REGULAR SEASON AND LOST IN THE SEMIFINALS OF THE CITY PLAYOFFS TO EVENTUAL CHAMPION AND TOP SEED, WESTSIDE HIGH SCHOOL. The Crusaders were led on offense by Carter Segura, Christian Johnson and Jadon Finn, who earned all-state selections. Finn leaves the program as the leader in career points (59), career goals (43) and career assists (16). Defensively, Andrew Blades led the way and was named to the all-state team. Caleb Symons and Ryan Hubenak received all-district nods. Matthew Brady, Philip Semple, Evan Wilson, Alec English, Brandon Stanley, Jake Cook and Hudson Huempfner were honorable mentions.

36 \\

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ J U LY 2022 \\ v y p e . c om

The 2022 CLHS Baseball Team

Anna Hancock, Savanna Clary, Abby Plagens, Makayla Pereira, Olivia Wilhelm and Avery Csernik

BASEBALL

\\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a

THE CRUSADER BASEBALL TEAM HAD ANOTHER MAGICAL SEASON, GOING 24-5 OVERALL AND 10-2 TO WIN TAPPS DISTRICT 4-DI. They were just getting started as Concordia Lutheran knocked off San Antonio Christian to reach the State Tournament at the University of Texas-Arlington. Leading the way were first-team, all-state selections Sean Fitzpatrick (Arkansas), Alex Petrovic (Auburn-commit) and Nolan Traeger (TCU-commit). Zachary Daigre was an all state, honorable mention. All four were first-team, all-district selections. Douglas Pieri, Jax Traeger (TCU), Michael Herndon and Christian Kurtz were named second teamers.

Matty Marsh, Caleb Blackburn, Hudson Yezak, Caden Hansen and Carson Huwyler GOLF

\\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a

THE CRUSADERS HAD A SOLID YEAR ON THE LINKS. Concordia Lutheran girls team played well in the Regional Tournament but fell short by three shots to advance to State as a team. Junior Abby Plagens and sophomore Avery Csernik did advance to the State Tournament and both will return next season with hopes as leading their entire team to the end of the year event . Plagens finished 16th at State. On the boys side, the Crusaders reached the Regionals but didn’ t have any member reach the State event .

Courtney Mosemann, Karalyn Rich, Meryl Eaves, Blythe Brooks, Jayden Schoppe, Lauren Martin, Caly Hardy and Georgia Marlow

SOFTBALL

\\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a

BATTER UP. The Concordia Lutheran softball team reached the postseason after going 9-13-2 on the season. The ‘Saders fell to Incarnate Word of San Antonio in the first round. The postseason awards came pouring in. Courtney Mosemann and Meryl Eaves earned first-team and academic all-state honors. Freshman Faith Keiper made all-district , second-team, while Georgia Marlow, Caly Hardy, Kaitlyn Battista and Reece Ivanovsky were honorable mentions.

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 37

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

SPRING

feature

L EAV I NG

\\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a

Jadon Finn

Sean Fitzpatrick

Courtney Mosemann

LACROSSE

BASEBALL

SOFTBALL

Sean Fitzpatrick could be the next big thing to come out of Concordia Lutheran, who has four alumni currently in the Majors. The lean lefty has been one of the most coveted prospects in the state of Texas the last few years. He is headed to play his college ball at the University of Arkansas.

Courtney Mosemann has been the diamond darling for the Crusader softball team the past few seasons. She has been leaned on to play multiple positions on the field and is a major leader inside the locker room. She’s a star in the classroom as well. Mosemann ended up with a first-team, all-district selection this year along with an academic all-state selection.

The face of the young Concordia Lutheran lacrosse program has been Jadon Finn, who earned an all-state nod this season. Finn leaves the program as the leader in career points (59), career goals (43) and career assists (16). Finn is the Mt. Rushmore of ‘Sader lacrosse as it continues to grow in stature.

feature

THE BAR

SETTING

RYLEY KLEFSTAD TAKES IT OLD SCHOOL. When asked what his walk-up song would be as he prepared for a big jump? You guessed it, “Jump” by Van Halen circa 1983. 1983? His answer is apropos seeing his life is “90-percent pole vaulting”. “I really got into the sport in the seventh grade,” he said. “My neighbor jumped for Sam Houston State and she really introduced me to the club side of the sport. I fell in love with it.” He was sort of built for it having been a competitive gymnast up until the sixth grade, giving him a great foundation of speed, strength, body control and explosion. Klefstad continued working on his craft going into high school and won the TAPPS 6A State Championship as a sophomore in 2021. He finished with silver in 2022, tying Owen Williamson of Bishop Lynch at 15-feet. Williamson cleared the height in fewer vaults to earn gold. The junior will be back in 2023 to try and get his title back. “Another State Title would be nice,” he said. “It’s just more motivation. I like to think I thrive under pressure, not crack under it.” For now, Klefstad hits the summer circuit with high expectations. “My PR is 16-6 and my goal is to go 17-6,” he said. If he hits anywhere near that mark, he will be a super-recruit. “That’s the goal,” he said. “With all the time I’ve put into this, being able to do this at the college level is my current goal. As long as that happens, I’ll be happy.” Klefstad Continues Success as Elite Pole Vaulter \\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a

Ryley Klefstad

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ 39

v y p e . c om \\ J U LY 2022 \\

fine arts Fin ts

40 \\

C O N C O R D I A L UTH E R A N H I G H S C H O O L \\ J U LY 2022 \\ v y p e . c om

FINE ARTS Fine arts

Concordia provides a rich variety of opportunities for students to express themselves creatively through the arts. The fine arts department is continuously striving to build a program that is recognized as one of the best in Texas. God blessed human beings with a unique ability – TO CREATE.

2021-2022 Fine Arts Highlights

TAPPS Honors • Mr. Russel Reeder, multimedia teacher, was named the TAPPS 6A Fine Arts Teacher of the Year. • Eliza Schumacher, senior, was named the TAPPS 6A Fine Arts Female Student of the Year. • Caleb Tiesman, senior, was name the TAPPS 6A Fine Arts Male Student of the Year for the second year in a row. Instrumental Music • Instrumental Band claimed their 3rd TAPPS 6A State Championship in the last 7 years • Drumline finished 3rd and Field Band finished 5th in the TAPPS Fall State Competition • Spring Break Tour to Southern California • Performed at Fall, Christmas, Spring Chorale, and POPS concerts • Top Trombone Player in TPSMEA All-State Band Vocal Music • Choir repeated as the 2022 TAPPS 6A Vocal Music State Championship; their 6th title in 10 years • Over 70 students involved in choir program • Performed at Fall, Christmas, Spring Chorale, and POPS concerts • 11 students were selected into the TPSMEA All-State Choir • 14 students were selected for the TPSMEA Region 3 Mixed Choir and Treble Choir

Art Team • Several students received awards in the Scholastic Art &Writing contest and TAPPS Fall Photography Contest • Placed 3rd in the TAPPS 6A State Art Competition for the 6th consecutive year Theatre • Competed in the Fall One Act Play Competition with the play, Stages • Presented Dreamworks Shrek The Musical as the 2022 winter musical • Earned a Tommy Tune Award Nomination for Best Supporting Actress Academic, Speech, and Debate Team • Over 20 students participated in Academic, Speech, & Debate helping the Crusaders claim 5th place in the TAPPS 6A State Competition

Scan here to learn more about Fine Arts at Concordia:

In 2021-2022, Concordia was the highest scoring TAPPS (Texas Association of Private & Parochial Schools) Fine Arts school in the Houston Metro across all 6 divisions with 36 points for the Henderson Cup. Points were awarded for state competition results in Academics, Art, Band, Cheer, Choir, Dance, One Act Play, and Orchestra. 21 out of the 46 TAPPS schools in Houston failed to register any Fine Arts points in 2021-2022. Concordia’s 36 Fine Arts points totaled more than Cypress Christian, The Woodlands Christian, Northland Christian, Frassati Catholic, Legacy Prep, and Providence Christian’s combined total of 29 points.

M I S S I O N S T A T E M E N T BUILDING LIVES OF EXCELLENCE UPON THE FOUNDATION OF CHRIST

Opened Doors 1984

Students continue on to Higher Education 98%

Total Enrollment 545

Member of the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) Competes in TAPPS 6A (Largest Division)

Average Class Size 19

Student/Teacher Ratio 13:1

of Faculty with Advanced Degrees 57%

College Credits Offered 60+

63%

33% 42%

TAPPS Henderson Cup 2018-2019 Champions 2017-2018 Runner-Up 2016-2017 Champions

of students participate in athletics

of students participate in fine arts

Total Athletic Teams 37

Varsity Level Sports 20

of students participate in agriculture

Highest ranked comprehensive fine arts program in Houston metro 5-consecutive years

Weekly Chapel and Daily Theology Courses

Caring, Christian environment in which students explore their God-given talents

Accredited by:

V I S I O N S T A T E M E N T

Concordia Lutheran High School is the school of choice for students and families in the Greater Houston Area.

www.clhs-tx.org www.sadernationtx.com

700 E. Main Street Tomball, TX 77375

281-351-2547