This spring, the school community is buzzing with energy as several local students dive into exciting extracurricular activities ranging from sports to community service. Through the Park & Rec and Flex programs, a variety of events and clubs are taking shape, bringing people together and offering opportunities for everyone to get involved. Students at Old Saybrook High School have gotten involved themselves in many of these activities, and have incorporated them into Capstone events. Here is a look at some of those students and what they’ve been doing.
Baseball Camp with Vince and Reggie
Seniors Vince Bibisi and Reggie Duque are working together to run a fun and engaging baseball camp through the Park and Rec program. This camp is designed for kids of all skill levels, offering coaching and practice in a supportive environment. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, the camp provides a great opportunity to learn from experienced coaches while having fun with friends.
Pickleball Tournament with Tenzin and Kylie
Seniors Tenzin Choedar and Kylie Lake are gearing up for an exciting pickleball tournament. While they are currently operating separately, there’s always the possibility they may join forces with senior Wes Percival and junior Greyson Richards as the tournament begins, seeing as they have very similar trajectories. Either way, both are looking forward to a competitive and fun event that will challenge their skills and help grow the sport in the community. It’s a great opportunity for people of all ages to experience the growing trend of pickleball.
Wes and Greyson’s New Pickleball Club
If you’re a pickleball enthusiast, there’s more good news! Wes and Greyson are launching a new pickleball club through the Park & Rec program. Beginning this April, they will host sessions on Saturdays throughout the month, providing a space for players to practice, compete, and connect. The club is open to all skill levels, and if anyone has pickleball paddles they’re willing to donate, the club would greatly appreciate them to help provide equipment for new players. And might join up and be a part of a tournament.
Cancer Walk on May 23rd
Community members are coming together for an important cause with the upcoming Cancer Walk on May 23rd. Senior Owen Courtright, junior Whitney Bird, and junior Chloe Young are leading the charge, encouraging everyone to join in and raise awareness for cancer research. Followed by last year’s cancer walk which was a great success, this event is a great way to give back, show support, and walk together in solidarity for those affected by cancer. Mark your calendars this is a can’t-miss event.
Ping Pong Club by Nick Dutra and Finn Speed
Juniors Nick Dutra and Finn Speed are taking their passion for ping pong to the next level by starting a Ping Pong Club through the Flex program. This club is set to start around mid-March, with two meetings planned by March 31st. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual player, the Ping Pong Club will offer a relaxed yet competitive environment for all skill levels. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to have fun and improve your game!
Dance Team with Emma Elgart
Dance lovers will be thrilled to know that senior Emma Elgart is starting a new dance team through Flex. Emma, who is working closely with Mrs. Santopietro, plans to launch the team in April. This exciting new initiative will provide students with a creative outlet to showcase their talents and express themselves through movement. If you’re looking to get involved in dance, this is the perfect opportunity to join a team and learn new routines.
Peer Tutoring with Ethan Lane
In a wonderful act of community service, senior Ethan Lane is partnering with NHS to offer peer tutoring to students in need of academic support. This initiative, which aims to help students succeed in their studies, is a great example of how students can help one another. Ethan’s work will foster a spirit of collaboration and learning within the school, making it easier for students to achieve their academic goals.
Building Birdhouses for Red-Headed Woodpeckers with Mathew Makris
For those with a passion for wildlife and nature, senior Mathew Makris is leading a special project during Flex to build birdhouses specifically designed for red headed woodpeckers. This initiative not only provides a valuable learning experience in construction and nature conservation but also contributes to preserving local wildlife. Mathew’s goal is to complete the birdhouses by the end of March, and it’s a fantastic way to connect with the environment while giving back to the community wood provided by the help of Mr. Carlone.
As you can see, there’s no shortage of exciting activities and opportunities for students and community members to get involved in this spring. Whether you’re interested in sports, community service, or creative outlets, these programs are the perfect way to stay active, engaged, and make a positive impact. Keep an eye out for these upcoming events, and don’t forget to support your fellow community members as they work on these inspiring projects.
