Masas Vineyard High School Celebrates Five Collegiate Athletes
masas Vineyard High School honored five student-athletes who committed to collegiate athletic programs during a ceremony Thursday afternoon in the high school gymnasium. Camille Brands, Felicity Lepin, elina Kakioti, Kaua de Assis, and Lily Haynes were recognized for their achievements in track and field, field hockey, swimming, and lacrosse, respectively.
Camille Brands: Jumping to New Heights at Tufts University
camille Brands, a track and field standout, will be joining the Tufts University athletics program in Medford, Massachusetts.In just three years,Brands broke both indoor and outdoor school records,achieving a high jump of 5 feet 4 inches (approximately 163cm). Brands’ accomplishments include competing in the national tournament for the 2024 season and becoming the indoor track champion.
Did You Know?
The high jump is a track and field event in which athletes jump over a horizontal bar placed at measured heights without the aid of any devices.It requires a combination of speed, agility, and power.
Reflecting on her journey, Brands stated, Junior season spring was the best season for my life. I got a tremendous driving force and decided to continue this. [헌신했을 때] I really felt relieved.
Brands credited Joe Schreader, a long-term coach, and her parents for encouraging her to pursue high jumping.
Brands emphasized the dedication required, saying, Joe Schroeder told me to play high, thank you. I worked really hard in a short time. I practiced for 5-6 days a week,and it can be said to be all of my life,but I really like this.
Felicity Lepin: Taking Field Hockey to Nazareth University
Felicity Lepin,captain of the Vineyard field Hockey team,has committed to Nazareth University in Rochester,New York. Lepin found inspiration in her former field hockey player and coach, Christine Lepin.
Pro Tip: College Recruitment
Attending recruitment events and playing on club teams can significantly increase your visibility to college coaches. Be proactive in showcasing your skills and dedication.
Expressing her enthusiasm, lepin said, Are you really excited. I realized I really liked when I started field hockey in my first grade.
Her confidence grew through club field hockey and recruitment events.I started playing on two other clubs and participated in several scout events. I felt that I started getting attention for the first time, and I thought I wanted to continue this.
Lepin said.
Elina Kakioti: Continuing Field Hockey at Allegheny College
Elina Kakioti, also a captain of the island field hockey team, will be playing at Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania. Initially hesitant about sports, Kakioti discovered her passion as a freshman on the island’s high school team and later joined a club team for additional practice time.
Kakioti highlighted the camaraderie, stating, Free season is always fun. My friendship with my friends is the driving force that keeps me back. I was always able to meet my friends.
She also noted a notable achievement in Virginia.
Reflecting on her decision, Kakioti said, I decided to go to college and I felt confident. I didn’t think I could play in college at first.
She added, When Pelicity and I were appointed as the captain of the field hockey team, I have a lot of confidence. The coach thought we had the ability to lead the team, and began to consider college.
Kakioti’s mother, Michelle Kakioti, shared her pride: I’m really proud. It’s far away, but it’s okay at all … I’m just proud. I belong to the team and I think it’s better to have such a structure.
Other Commitments: De Assis and Haynes
Kaua de assis,captain of the Irish swimming team,has committed to Bridgewater State University. Lily Haynes of the Women’s Lacrosse program will be competing at Simmons University in Boston. While they could not attend the celebration, their achievements were recognized.
