Captain's Corner: Winter Sports Season Review

The 2025-2026 winter season showcased the dedication, growth, and spirit of CEC athletics across every program. From program-building milestones to big rivalry wins, our Eagles have already made this winter one to remember. Each team brought energy, leadership, and perseverance, making this winter season filled with moments that will leave a lasting impact on our Eagles.

Swimming

(While CEC’s swim team did not compete in PCL events this year, the athletes have competed individually and laid a strong foundation for full team participation next season.)

Captain Orla Jacoby ’27, Melody Garcia ’27, and Chase Christiansen ’29 are leading the charge for a historic season as CEC launches its first-ever swim team.

“Just having a team and being able to build the first CEC swim program has been the highlight,” Jacoby shared. With an emphasis on growth and establishing a strong foundation, the team’s goal is to continue expanding and making a name for itself in the coming years.

Jacoby motivates her teammates by cheering them on during races and staying positive throughout meets. As the program’s first season unfolds, the team continues to focus on learning, improving, and enjoying the experience.

First year, Head Coach Brandon Rapone reflected on the season stating, ““Team, Unity, Focus. Fifteen swimmers came together this year and formed one amazing team! The Conwell Egan swim team kicked off their first year, establishing multiple goals both in and out of the water, as well as a strong determination to positively represent their school.  Even though they came from different backgrounds/levels in swimming, they created a positive team culture, built on hard work, driven by heart and sportsmanship, and growing continuously stronger together, no matter what place they may have finished! After placing 7th overall at both PCLs and Districts, the future is bright for this emerging team!” 

Girls’ Basketball

(3-18 Overall)

Captains EllenMarie Buck ’26, Ariella Parks ’26, Venice Dennis ’27, and Jayla Butler ’27 have guided the girls basketball team through a season centered on unity, growth, and resilience.

Early wins, including a standout victory over Friends’ Central, highlighted the team’s potential. “We’re more of a family this year,” Dennis shared. “I try to calm the nerves, hype everyone up, and make sure we’re ready before we even step on the court.” Her leadership has helped build confidence and shift the team’s mindset before games even begin.

Buck emphasized the importance of staying positive after mistakes, while Parks pointed to accountability and communication as key factors in overcoming challenges. With goals of strengthening team chemistry and continuing to build momentum, the Eagles remain focused on supporting one another and competing with confidence.

Head Coach Korell Velez reflected on the season stating, “This season was all about rebuilding. The strongest buildings are built brick by brick. The ground work is there as evidenced by our Senior Night Victory versus a tough West Catholic team. Looking forward to the future!”

Boys’ Basketball

(8-11 Overall)

The boys basketball team, led by captains Justin Bobb ’26, Matthew Tollerson-Irby ’27, and Dominic Dorsey ’27, made a strong statement this season. One of the biggest highlights was beating teams that many believed they wouldn’t be able to defeat — wins that boosted the team’s confidence and showcased their competitiveness.

“We faced a lot of media adversity, but we proved people wrong by beating teams they said we wouldn’t beat,” Bobb shared. The team embraced that outside doubt and used it as motivation throughout the season.

With a deeper and more talented roster than in past years, the Eagles showed noticeable growth on the court. Communication in the huddle and strong leadership helped keep everyone focused during tough moments. Looking ahead, the goal remains simple: continue building momentum and win more games.

Head Coach Sean Tait reflected on the season stating, “The year started out with playing a strong non-league schedule and getting a win over a very talented Springside-Chestnut Hill at home. Over Christmas the team took a trip to Richmond, VA  to play in the prestigious Benedictine Classic where we competed against some of the top teams in the DMV area going 1-2. In PCL play the team caught some tough breaks losing 3 overtime games to St. Joseph's Prep, Devon, and eventual league runner-up Neumann-Goretti. Although the team fell short of making the playoffs, the future is bright with the team returning most of the roster that is mostly Juniors, sophomores, and freshmen. We wish to congratulate Justin Bobb for his commitment to the CEC basketball program and wish him the very best on his college career as he is being recruited by many schools and whoever lands him will be very lucky to have him.”

Girls’ Bowling

(10-22 Overall)

In her first year as captain, Laila Kilgore ’27 has helped foster a welcoming and supportive environment for the girls bowling team.

“The highlight has been meeting new people and becoming a team,” Kilgore shared. “We’re more like a family this year.” That sense of unity has played a major role in the team’s continued success as they focus on keeping up the good work and continuing to win.

Kilgore motivates her teammates by encouraging them to always try their best and stay positive. Before each match, the team gathers for a prayer — a meaningful tradition that reflects the bond and support they share.

Head Coach Patrick Donlen reflected on the team’s successful season: “The girls' bowling team exceeded all expectations this season. With only one returning bowler from last year, we had to start fresh. Therefore, we needed to recruit new bowlers. We added freshman Emma Russell, and sophomores Tiffany Pinkham, Autumn Jackson, and Isabella Velez. Captain Laila Kilgore brought on juniors Sammi Griepp, Jaelyn Stintsman, and sophomore, Anabel Fife. The girls finished third in the PCL and lost to powerhouse Bonner-Prendie in the semi-finals. Emma was named to Second-Team All-Catholic, while Tiffany and Isabella narrowly missed the selection by only two spots. The future looks promising for the girls' bowling team, and we are excited to return to the championship level.

Boys’ Bowling

(34-2 Overall)

Two-year captain Luke Phinn ’26 led the boys bowling team through a competitive and energized season that concluded with the Eagles earning back-to-back PCL Championships.

“Our win against Father Judge meant everything,” Phinn shared. “As our rival, that match set the tone for the rest of our season.” The victory provided momentum and confidence that carried the team forward throughout the year.

With one of the largest team turnouts in recent seasons, the Eagles focused on maintaining consistency and building toward regionals. Phinn keeps his teammates level-headed when games don’t go their way, reminding them to focus on the next frame and stay positive. Loud pre-match breakdowns continue to set the energy and mindset that have defined this championship season.

Coach Wendi Wiley states, “The boys bowling team had high expectations for this season as reigning Catholic League Champions.  The team lived up to these expectations as they repeated as PCL champions by beating one of their fiercest rivals. All five starters were recognized as All-Catholic athletes. The honors are as follows, Luke Phinn- Third Team, Garrett Phillips- Second Team, Ben Blaskopf and Dalton Johnson- First Team and Brian Baill was one of two MVPs of the boys division this year with an average of 220.” 

Wrestling

(6-0 Head-to-Head, 4-0 PCL)

Captains Julia Horger ’26, Colin Walther ’27, Thomas Boyce ’27, Lukas Grodzki ’26, and MJ Gorell ’28 are leading a wrestling program marked by growth, resilience, and determination.

For Horger, a historic season includes being invited to Beast of the East and earning key wins, while also sharing the experience with another female teammate for the first time. “It’s special, especially being my last year, to finally have another girl to go to tournaments with,” she said.

Walther highlighted a major win over La Salle as a season-defining moment. Both captains emphasized pushing each other in practice, learning from losses, and staying healthy as the team works toward postseason goals. Team warmups, music before matches, and post-match meals continue to strengthen their bond.

Girls’ Indoor Track

Led by Lisa Quirmoule ’27, the girls indoor track team had an impressive winter season highlighted by a strong performance at the PCL Championships. Several athletes earned All-Catholic honors and achieved big personal records, reflecting the team’s hard work and dedication throughout the season.

This year’s team stands out for its young talent. With many underclassmen stepping up and making an impact, the future of the program looks promising. Lisa continues to motivate her teammates by reminding them that consistent effort in practice leads to success on race day.

While the team placed seventh and narrowly missed a medal in the 4x200 relay, they have used that experience as motivation. By focusing on improving their handoffs and sharpening their technique, the team is determined to build on their progress and carry that momentum into a strong outdoor season filled with even more personal records.

Boys’ Indoor Track 

Antonio Carmona ’26 has helped represent the boys indoor track team this season through his leadership and dedication. One of the biggest highlights of the winter has been winning medals at meets, a reflection of the hard work and determination shown by the team throughout the season.

With a smaller roster compared to previous years, the team has focused on steady improvement and making the most of every opportunity to compete. Their goal has remained consistent; continue to grow stronger and improve with each meet.

By leading warmups and pushing himself to improve alongside his teammates, Antonio has helped set the standard for effort and accountability. The team’s commitment to progress and perseverance has defined their season and positioned them well for continued success.

Coach Wendi Wiley states, “The boys bowling team had high expectations for this season as reigning Catholic League Champions.  The team lived up to these expectations as they repeated as PCL champions by beating one of their fiercest rivals. All five starters were recognized as All-Catholic athletes. The honors are as follows, Luke Phinn- Third Team, Garrett Phillips- Second Team, Ben Blaskopf and Dalton Johnson- First Team and Brian Baill was one of two MVPs of the boys division this year with an average of 220.”

Ice Hockey 

(14-4 Overall)

Representing the ice hockey team, Matthew Sheirdan ’26 reflected on a season defined by determination and teamwork. “Scoring against Roman in the semifinal brought us closer and sharpened our focus, we always aim to give 100% every time we step on the ice,” he shared, highlighting a pivotal moment that strengthened the team’s unity and resolve.

Liam Schickling ’26 also pointed to the postseason as a defining stretch, especially beating teams in the playoffs that had defeated them earlier in the season. The team’s ultimate goal has been to work together like a family and push as far as possible, fueling their competitiveness and resilience.

With a roster that isn’t very large, the team has faced challenges with fatigue and injuries. To overcome them, they rely on constant pressure, short high-energy shifts, and supporting one another on every play. Leadership has come through accountability and encouragement, reminding teammates to focus less on mistakes and more on improving on the next shift.

The talent and work ethic throughout the roster have made this year’s team especially strong, with players consistently motivating each other to elevate their performance. And when the Eagles secure a win, the celebration is always the same, “Wagon Wheel” by Darius Rucker plays as the team enjoys the moment together.

Coach Michael Delfin states, “The ice hockey team is in its 3rd season since its rebirth! This season we are again combined with Archbishop Ryan and have had an extremely successful season in the ICSHL (Inter-County Scholastic Hockey League), Commonwealth Division. The team finished the regular season in 3rd place with an impressive 14-4-0 record, with playoffs starting tonight. Our CEC players include Logan Perate, Jaxson St. John, Matthew Sheridan, Gavin Barnes, Gavin Miller, Danny Snyder, Joey Magee, & Liam Schickling. Logan was the top scorer on the team with 17 goals and 16 assists totalling 33 points. Liam Schickling was rock solid in goal all season long with 7 wins and only 2 losses, while facing over 275 shots and giving up just 33 goals!!!  

The program continues to gain momentum and is seeing tremendous success here early on. With only two graduating Seniors (Matthew & Liam) the future looks very bright.”

CEC beat Roman Catholic in the semi-finals 3-1 which advances them to the Intercounty Scholastic Hockey League Championship on Monday, March 2 against the Pope John Patriots at Iceline in West Chester at 8:00 p.m.

The winter season showcased leadership, perseverance, and Eagle pride across all programs. From building new teams to chasing postseason success, our captains continue to set the tone both on and off the court, mat, and lanes.

Stay tuned for the next edition of Captain’s Corner as the spring season unfolds.

Captain's Corner: Winter Sports Season Review

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