Yani Porter

Freshman Yani Porter is the newest member of the Varsity Gymnastics team. Porter started gymnastics at the age of ten however decided to take a break when she joined the Varsity cheer team. She decided to start the sport again after realizing how fun it was to be on a team, “I love the team so much, everyone is so nice and helpful” says Porter. She maintains her superb tumbling skills by practicing three times a week as well as perfecting her moves at home; “she is an excellent new addition to our team,” said junior teammate Katie Altman. Porter looks forward to being on the Langley team and continuing with the sport.

Garrett Walsh

As the Langley Saxons Swim and Dive team approach the first couple meets in the season, there is no better player to be mentioned other than sophomore standout Garrett Walsh.

Erin Riley

Sophomore swimmer Erin Reilly claims that “Garrett is not only a great player in the water but he is also a team leader when not swimming. If he is waiting for his event or even just getting some water, Garrett always has a positive look on his face and a passionate attitude towards his team and teammates.”  According to Coach Ryan Jackson, “Garret’s natural talents and abilities in multiple strokes and distances allow us to enter him in a number of events to best support his team.”

Morgan Kuligowski

When freshman standout Morgan Kuligowski steps onto the track, her mind is focused on a single goal: reaching the finish line. “My aunt ran marathons and my uncle ran in competitions, so I was inspired at a young age,” said Kuligowski. She currently runs alongside some of the top upperclassmen in long distance track events. “Morgan is so self-determined, and always gives 100% every day,” said fellow freshman teammate Gabby Peker. Varsity Track and Field Head Coach Joshua Culver added, “She’s on track to going to states as a freshman, which is really impressive.”

Lindsay Van Houten

Lindsay Van Houten has been playing basketball since second grade, when she was introduced to the sport by her father, her dedication paid off with a spot on the girls varsity squad as a freshman. “Being on the teams been a lot of fun for me, the seniors have been really nice. But it does take some adjusting; it’s definitely a different tempo than what I’m used to,” claims Van Houten. Although it may be a challenge to play at the level of her more experienced teammates, Van Houten never gives up. “No matter how much I yell at her, she’ll bounce right back up. She’s mentally strong for sure,” said Varsity Head Coach Amanda Bates. Van Houten plans to continue her basketball career throughout high school and perhaps college.

Paige Galiani

From the time when she was a little girl playing “Around the World” with her dad and brother, freshman Paige Galiani was always passionate about basketball, this year she has taken her ability a step further by making Langley’s varsity squad. “I love the competitive nature, and the motivation of the crowds,” said Galiani. “Besides her talent and ability, Paige brings a lot of winning experience. She’s always had a winning mindset,” said Varsity Head Coach Amanda Bates.

Brian Reilly

4:43 on the mile, and 2:05 on an 800-meter relay, these records belong to sophomore Brian Reilly. Although Reilly has only been involved in running-related sports since freshman year, he runs at the varsity level on the winter track team. Senior Josh Hulett claims that “Brian has determination and heart” and “He knows what he has to do to be successful.” Varsity track and field Head Coach Josuha Culver states that “Brian is our best distance runner, no doubt about it. He gives 100% effort during practice, and it shows because his times drop with each meet”. Culver also claimed that “He will definitely qualify for Districts, and honestly, I believe Brian will go far in his running career, and I expect big things for him.”

Andrew Haymans

The only thing better than Andrew Haymans’ basketball skills is his sense of humor.  Teammate from last year’s JV squad, sophomore Christian Gaibler proclaims, “He’s the funniest kid I know, and always makes basketball more fun. He always seems to light up everyone’s mood.” Being an underclassman doesn’t stop Haymans as he is considered to be the Langley Varsity team’s “sixth man.” As sixth man, Haymans is usually the first player subbed on the court. Senior teammate Justin Galiani claimed that Hayman is “the vocal leader of the team, and is always a huge socializer in the locker room.”

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Photos by Harris LaTeef, Cathy Kiess, and LifeTouch