Taft Sports News

Big Mike

Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Michael McCabe '07 has made it through rookie camp with the Green Bay Packers and begins Organized Training Activities (OTAs) on May 22. The three-day camp included eight draft picks, 14 undrafted free agents and 29 tryout players, concluded with a late-morning workout in the Don Hutson Center.

McCabe, 23, was a first-team All-Patriot League selection and a first-team All-New England choice in 2011, the third straight season he earned all-conference honors and the second straight he was named all-region. He started all 11 games at left tackle as a senior, helping the Crusaders average 400.9 yards of offense per game. McCabe played in 47 career games with 36 starts along the offensive line, including a streak of 34 straight to end his college career. He signed a three-year free-agent contract with the Packers in April.

Mike McCarthy, seven-year Packers head coach, calls this one of the best rookie camps and says it could offer immediate help for a team trying to get back to the Super Bowl. “The way our program is designed tells you how we feel about young players,” McCarthy said. “We’ve been a draft-and-develop program going on year seven now. It’s a young man’s league, in my opinion. I think that’s a trend that potentially is only going to pick up, so it would not surprise me if you continue to see those numbers.”

“Today was our best practice. The tempo was the best we had of the three. I really felt the practice environment for the team as a whole got better through the weekend. That’s a credit to the players and a credit to our coaches. We actually finished a little ahead of schedule coming off the practice field today. I don’t think that’s ever happened for a rookie orientation camp. They were flying around today,” McCarthy said.

http://www.packers.com/team/players.html

Skating for Team USA

Sat, 12 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Former Rhino hockey superstars Max Pacioretty ‘07, now playing for the Montreal Canadiens, and John Curry ‘03, goalie for the Hamburg Freezers (Germany), are wearing the red-white-and-blue jerseys of Team USA this month as they compete in the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Championship in Helsinki, Finland. The sixteen competing teams carry rosters of 22 skaters and 3 goalies, and Pacioretty has already garnered tournament honors. His team voted him best player of Game 1 in recognition of the goal and two assists that contributed to the USA’s 7-2 victory over France. As of May 12, the Americans had skated their way to third place in the preliminary standings, just behind top-ranked Canada, whom they beat 5-4 in overtime, and host country Finland, whom they play tomorrow, May 13, at 09:15 EST.

The IIHF World Championship is the 2012 hockey season’s premier international men’s tournament and the largest annual winter sport event worldwide. This year’s tournament has a new format: two seeded groups of eight compete in preliminary rounds in Helsinki and Stockholm, Sweden. The top four teams from each group then advance to the quarterfinals. The medal games will be played in Helsinki on May 20.

The IIHF, founded on May 15, 1908 in Paris, France, is the governing body of international ice hockey and inline hockey. The IIHF features 70 member associations, each of which is the national governing body of the sport in its nation. Besides controlling the international rulebook, processing international player transfers, and dictating officiating guidelines, the IIHF runs numerous development programs designed to bring hockey to a broader population. The IIHF also presides over ice hockey in the Olympic Games, and over the IIHF World Championships at all levels, men, women, juniors under-20, juniors under-18 and women under-18. Each season, the IIHF, in collaboration with its local organizing committees, runs close to 25 different World Championships in the five different categories.

Run for a Cause

Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Eric Metcalf and Charlie Garcia are Taft seniors who, in their own words, have spent the past three years running "side by side" in both cross-country and track. Todd '92 and Amanda McGovern '93 are Taft alumni who, for more than 5 years, have run a non-profit -- side by side. On alumni weekend, all four will join forces to benefit the McGovern's nonprofit while deepening their imprint on the Taft community.

On July 18, 2004, Todd McGovern was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The 30 year-old newleywed was told he had less than two years to live. According to the nonprofit's website, "Todd faced the ultimate decision: die a little each day, or live a little each day. He chose to Seas It."

Seas It is a nonprofit organization that promotes cancer recovery through recreation. Following his cancer diagnosis, Todd faced the difficult road by committing to those things that had always brought him comfort and a sense of well-being. A two-sport college athlete, staying active topped the list of commitments: being active both lifted Todd's spirits and improved his health. That personal commitment became the foundation of Seas It, which provides cancer patients and their families with the means to participate in recreational activities through individualized programs and services. Seas It also works to educate the public about the importance of a healthy and active lifestyle in both fighting and preventing cancer.

"When we heard about Todd and Amanda McGovern’s nonprofit organization, we saw a rewarding opportunity to give back to the school we love so much," explained Eric.

Adds Charlie, "Using Taft’s motto as an undercurrent for our work, we are excited to present our project to the Taft community and to the Watertown community."

Eric and Charlie have planned two separate events to benefit Seas It; both feature 5k and 1 mile run/walk options. On Saturday, May 19 Taft alumni are invited to run for the cause; event registration is limited to alumni on this day. The following day, Taft students, faculty and community members are invited to participate in “Sweat for Sweets.” Day two division winners will be awarded baked goods made by faculty member and Taft parents. There are over forty divisions, including all Taft sports teams (Varsity, JV and Thirds), a fastest Thesbian division (for Tafties involved in theater) and a Clydesdale division (for the fastest runner over 200 pounds).

Registration for the alumni-only event on May 19 is free; t-shirts may be purchased for $20. Registration for the community race on May 20 is $15 for race only, or $25 for race registration and tee. Race organizers Eric and Charlie are also looking for baked good donations and race-day volunteers. Email cgarcia@taftschool.org to help.

For more information about SeasIt, visit http://seasit.org/

ALUMNI REGISTRATION

http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=dtlxm8cab&oeidk=a07e5os1h17d88eae89

STUDENT AND COMMUNITY REGISTRATION

http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=dtlxm8cab&oeidk=a07e5urpxb36741c5b8

Andover Champ

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Middler Matt Schimenti won the individual championship at the Andover Invitational Golf Tournament at Newport Country Club on Saturday with an outstanding 1-over par 73. His round included 3 birdies and a number of scrambling pars, and he bested his nearest competitor by 6 strokes, which tells just how dominating Matt's performance was.

"Matt's play in these difficult conditions is one of the most outstanding individual performances by a Taft athlete in recent memory," said Coach Jack Kenerson '82, "and he should be congratulated."

Playing in true "British Open weather," the Boys' Varsity Golf team competed in winds that were blowing at 20+ miles per hours and gusting better than 30 miles per hour at times off the Atlantic Ocean, making playing conditions very difficult. The team finished second behind a strong Deerfield team with a total of 334 strokes.

The Psychology of Sport

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Renowned sports psychologist, author and golfing guru Dr. Bob Rotella spent Monday in Watertown, and it wasn’t to play a round of golf. Rotella spent the day at Taft, dining with the golf team, inspiring students and coaches and even sharing tips and insights on the links at the Watertown Golf Club.

“I loved walking down the fairway at Watertown Golf club with him engaged in conversation,” said assistant director of athletics and girls’ golf team coach Ginger O’Shea. “Most people who saw us may have thought we were talking about approach shots to the green, but we talked about life. Bob's message to "be your own best cheerleader," and "be your own best friend" not only applies when you are out on the golf course, but it applies to your everyday attitude about life.”

Widely recognized as one of the world’s top sports psychologists, Rotella has worked as a personnel consultant for the NBA, NFL, Major League Baseball, NASCAR, PGA Tour, LPGA Tour, Senior Tour, U.S. Olympic Ski Team and the U.S. Olympic Equestrian Team, as well as the New York Yankees, San Francisco 49ers, New Jersey Nets, and Texas Rangers. And now—thanks to Kristine and Tom Gordon, parents of Heather Gordon ’14—Taft School.

During a presentation Monday night in the Black Box theater, Rotella spoke of visualization, self-confidence and the power of mental preparation. And a part of that preparation, Rotella says, is developing a meaningful routine.

“I was never a player that was big on routine, and I never thought that it could be such an important part of the game,” explained boys' golf team co-captain Brandon Sousa ’12. “But Dr. Rotella has such knowledge and constantly placed emphasis on the importance of a meaningful and consistent routine. I will definitely implement that as part of my game strategy from now on.”

Boys' co-captain Henry Wesson ’13 agrees:

“The day with Dr. Bob Rotella was eye-opening and definitely changed my mental approach to golf. After listening to him talk on the putting green I was able to go out on the course and try the things he talked about, which helped a lot. He also talked about things we need to do off the course to give ourselves the best chance to be successful golfers. He talked about many of the sacrifices that are necessary to be successful, and entertained us with stories from his own life and things he has learned.”

In the end, however, the most powerful message was not about stroke mechanics, chip shots, or where the ball lies, but about what lies within.

“The idea that resonated most with me was about not being fearful and having confidence,” said girls' golf team co-captain Ali Eleey ’12. “From now when I’m on the course I am going to trust myself and know that I have worked hard and practiced my game a lot, so there is no reason to be scared. Another idea that stuck with me was the importance of being resilient after tough days on the course. That is much more difficult than simply feeling bad and making excuses for yourself. I learned a lot from what Mr. Rotella said and it motivated me to continue working on my game.”

“It was a very memorable day,” concludes O’Shea. “We were very lucky to have had this opportunity; it was a really big day for anyone who loves sports and an especially big day for anyone who is interested in the mental aspect of sports.”

Big Hitter

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Mike Mastrocola '08 (Southbury, Conn.), now playing for Colby College, went over 100 career hits and had 22 RBI during the Mules' spring break trip to Florida. D3baseball.com recognized his superior performance by naming him to its National Team of the Week on March 29.

Mastrocola, a senior third baseman, helped the Mules to a 7-5 record on the trip and stands at 102 career hits. He batted .488, scored 15 runs, had four doubles, two triples, one home run, six walks, a .744 slugging percentage, and a .551 on-base percentage. Mastrocola already has surpassed last year's RBI total.

In the current New England Small College Athletic Conference statistics, Mastrocola is first in the conference in RBI, tied for second in triples, tied for second in runs scored (15), and is third in total bases (32).

Mastrocola's best hit of his 21 came on a grand slam home run in a victory over Plymouth State.

Colby ranks third in the NESCAC in team batting average at .344.

Florida Bound

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

While the Red Sox are warming up in Fort Myers and the Yankees are in Tampa, you can catch some Big Red action in the Sunshine State this month as well.

Varsity Baseball

Wednesday, March 21 vs. Montclair Kimberley (NJ) at 8:15pm

Thursday, March 22 vs. Milton (MA) at 6pm

Saturday, March 24 vs. St. Margaret's at 3pm

Sunday, March 25 vs. Chestnut Hill (PA) at 9am

Scrimmages will be played at Lawnwood Athletic Complex, 1302 Virginia Ave., Fort Pierce, Florida

For more information contact coach Chris Torino.

Boys' Varsity Lacrosse

Sunday, March 18 vs. Gilman (MD) at 8pm

Monday, March 19 vs. Middlesex (MA) at 8pm

Wednesday, March 21 vs. St. Paul's (NH) at 8pm

Thursday, March 22 vs. Pomfret (CT) at 8pm

Scrimmages will be played at WCL @ Austin-Tindale Park, 4100 Boggy Creek Rd, Kissimmee FL 34744

For more information contact coach Casey D'Annolfo.

Girls' Varsity Lacrosse
Tuesday, March 20: Scrimmage vs Sacred Heart (TBD) at Lakewood Soccer Complex, 6 pm
Wednesday, March 21: Scrimmage vs Hackley Girls at Azalea Middle School, 6 pm
Thursday, March 22: Scrimmage vs New Hampton at Lakewood Soccer Complex, 6 pm

For more information contact coach Sarah Sanborn

Girls' Varsity Golf

Saturday, March 10: Royal Palm Golf Club-Boca Raton, time TBD
Sunday, March 11: Boca Hotel Golf Resort-Boca Raton, time TBD
Monday, March 12: Old Trail Course-Jupiter, 1 p.m.
Tuesday, March 13: Trump International Golf Club-West Palm Beach, afternoon

For more information contact coach Ginger O'Shea

Or follow the teams on Twitter, too:

@taftlax

@TaftVBaseball

And, as always, check out all the spring season sports action at www.taftsports.com!

Scotty Cup

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This year, 28 players took the ice for the annual Taft Alumni Hockey Game, now known as the Scotty Cup. Alumni reunited in Odden Arena on Saturday, February 11, for an evenly matched game! Final score was 5-3, with Team White edging out Team Red.

"This has become a great tradition," says Headmaster Willy MacMullen (team white). "We have a lot of fun and laughs, and we honor Scott Richardson, who so loved playing every year. This year was the best ever. Plenty of skaters shared that they build their calendar around the event. Best of all, we all managed to get through the game with no pulled muscles!"

The Scotty Cup

The Taft Alumni Hockey Game is now played in honor of Scott Richardson '82, a loyal alum who almost never missed an alumni game up until his death in 2007. In 2009, Taft introduced the Scotty Cup, which is dedicated annually on the occasion of the alumni hockey game to recognize Scotty's dedication to Taft, his love of the game and his ongoing years of camaraderie. Each new player that comes out for the alumni game has his or her name engraved on the beautiful silver trophy, resembling the Stanley Cup.

Dave Richardson, Scott's father, was in attendance to present the trophy and to watch the game that his son had loved so much. Jerry Smith, a close friend of Scott’s and the chairman of the Scott W. Richardson Memorial Fund, was there as well.

WHITE TEAM

John Wyman '10

Thad Reycraft '10

Jerome Wallace '06

Garry Rogers '83

Courtney Wemyss '78

Willy MacMullen '78

Wilkie Bushby '76

Luke Coppedge '98

Tucker Cavanaugh '86

Jeremy Dwyer '07

Alex Kremer '06

Paul Stancs '79

Drew Gallagher

RED TEAM

Chris Watson '91

Drew Stone '79

Ryan Sochacki '00

James Better '79

Rocky Shepard III '69

Alec Genung '91

Chris Taccetta '83

Timothy Cooney '90

Sean Carty '06

Conor McEvoy '10

Chris Snow '97

Chris Laughlin '90

Jordy Davis '91

James Duval (faculty)

Matt Mason (faculty)

Squash Trains With World's No. 6

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Every year Taft hosts a professional squash player to train with its teams, and this season it was Mohamed El Shorbagy, currently ranked sixth in the world. During a four-hour clinic, Shorbagy challenged the undefeated Boys’ and Girls’ Varsity Squash Teams to improve their footwork and their positioning even as he drilled them at full-tilt. He finished with exhibition matches against the top-two players from both the boys’ and the girls’ teams, drawing a crowd to stands that are typically empty during a regular practice.

Shorbagy, in the Northeast to play in New York City’s Tournament of Champions, traveled to Taft at the request of number one Taft Boys’ player Zeyad Elshorfy '12. Both natives of Alexandria, Egypt, Shorbagy and Elshorfy hail from the same home club and often traveled together to play in Cairo, the squash mecca of Egypt. When not on the road, Shorbagy attends business school at Muirfield in Bristol, England.

“I never thought I could learn so much in one afternoon,” said Jake Lord ’14, who plays number seven for the Boys’ team. “It was awesome,” he added enthusiastically. Characteristically serious, Elshorfy was not surprised by the pro’s impact on the team. “I have played with him many times,” he said. “He takes it easy on me.”

Last year the Taft Varsity boys were the New England Champions and finished second at the National Championship. Taft has always occupied a place amongst the squash elite. Founders League competition began in 1985, and since that time Taft has been crowned Founders League Champion 19 times.

Yong '14 Wins Squash Title

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

While most Tafties were celebrating the end of exams and the start of the holiday break, Sue Ann Yong ’14 was gearing up for yet another test: the largest individual junior squash tournament in the world. From December 17-20, Sue Ann competed in the 2011 US Junior Open Squash Championships, in Cambridge, MA. Sue Ann came away the winner of the Girls Under 17 division (GU17).

“It was a week of exciting squash,” Sue Ann said. “ It was a great experience and a wonderful feeling.”

A record field of over 750 players from more than 20 countries competed at this year’s Open; 128 of those players were in Sue Ann’s division.

“It was my first year playing the US Open,” Sue Ann explained, “and I had not had much practice time because of exams.”

After a strong opening, Sue Ann moved to the round of 16 with a 3-0 win, where she earned a spot in the quarterfinals with another decisive 3-0 victory. Sue Ann upset #4 seed Egypt’s Laila Omar to advance to the semi-finals where she faced #1 seed Olivia Fletcher.

“I knew it would be difficut as she has beaten me many times,” Sue Ann said.
Sue Ann defeated Fletcher, and went on to win the tournament in an exciting, 5-game match over #2 seed Katie Tutrone.

“I played without any expectations and I upset the top seed in the semi finals, and eventually won the finals against the second seed. I was very surprised, but exhausted and happy at the same time.”