Announcements
Breaking Barriers: Lucas Pillemer Joins Athletics Council as First-Ever Middle School Representative
Interview by Aquinnah McGrathThis year, the Avenues Athletics Council made history by welcoming its first middle school member: Lucas Pillemer, an enthusiastic and thoughtful student with a vision to elevate middle school athletics.When asked how it feels to step into this pioneering role, Lucas didn’t hesitate: “It feels exciting to be a part of the team! I don't have as much stress as I thought I would, probably because you guys seem like a very comforting group of people!” His energy and optimism set the tone for what’s sure to be a meaningful year on the council.Lucas’s journey began with initiative. Noticing a gap in visibility for middle school athletes, he took action. “I chose to write that email because I noticed how talented the Middle School athletes are, and I think it'd be cool to spotlight them more!” That single message led to a breakthrough opportunity—not just for Lucas, but for every middle school athlete now and in the future.In addition to his le
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Game On: Sriram Srinivasan Brings the Student-Faculty Showdown to Life
For most students, the Student vs. Faculty Basketball Game is a chance to cheer, compete, and maybe—just maybe—witness the end of the faculty’s undefeated streak. But for Sriram Srinivasan, it’s also about legacy, leadership, and building community through tradition.While Sriram was the one who took charge this year, he’s quick to give credit where it’s due. “While I am responsible for planning the event, I want to give credit to Ms. Ramos, who organized similar student-faculty games when the Class of 2026 was in eighth grade,” he shared. “These events were always fun and great for building community, so once I was elected to the Student Council in high school, I made it a priority to organize similar events.”Planning began back in February, just as the basketball season wrapped. “I first spoke with Mr. Pepelanov to confirm the feasibility, and then I emailed Ms. Sabala, Ms. Inniss Eastmond and Ms. Wilson to reserve the gym and ensure that all the necessa
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ACIS and NYSAIS Playoff Information
Some exciting games on Monday! Congrats for moving onto the semifinals! Please see the results from yesterday and information on the next round! Good luck to all teams! NYSAIS Update - Varsity Squash (see updated bracket attached)Quarter Finals Varsity Squash won versus DaltonSemi-Finals on Wednesday @ Hackley 5pm ACIS PLAYOFF Update (see acisnyc.com for updates) QUARTER FINAL ROUND Boys' Junior Varsity#1 Avenues defeated #8 Leman, 61-42#2 Berkeley defeated #7 St. Ann's, 43-32#3 Packer defeated #6 Friends Seminary, 48-20#4 SIA defeated #5 Dwight, 60-30 Boys' Varsity#1 Friends Seminary defeated #8 Leman, 69-51#2 Packer defeated #7 St. Ann's, 61-35#3 Avenues defeated #6 SIA, 62-59#5 Berkeley Carroll defeated #4 Dwight, 71-57 SEMI FINAL ROUND Wednesday, February 12, 2025 Girls' Varsity#1 SIA hosts #4 Berkeley Carroll at 4:00#2 Avenues hosts #3 Friends Seminary at 3:30 Boys' Junior Varsity#1 Avenues hosts #4 S
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🎉 Exciting News for Aviator Athletics Fans! 🎉
We are thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new website! **What's New:**🌐 Modern and User-Friendly Interface🔍 Improved Navigation for Easy Access📅 Brand New Calendar Layout📸 Stunning Visuals and GalleriesClick this link to learn more about the site.
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Athlete Spotlight: Kieran Coffey
Mixed Varsity Ultimate FrisbeeFrisbee, Focus, and Leadership: A Student’s Playbook for Building a Team Interview by Darren Robbins When it comes to student leadership, few names carry as much weight as Kieran Coffey. Whether he’s rallying teammates, organizing tournaments, or hauling gear across Chelsea Park, Kieran is the heartbeat of the ultimate frisbee program—a role he’s proudly shaped from the ground up. Now entering his third year as co-captain of the high school ultimate frisbee team, he wears many hats—organizer, motivator, and mentor. From coordinating year-round practices and equipment to rallying schoolwide interest through creative events, he’s become the heartbeat of a growing program. We sat down with him to talk about his journey, the evolution of the frisbee team, and the lessons he brings from the court to the field."I am now entering my third year as the co-captain of the HS frisbee team. I also lead the HS/MS frisbee club, which we have year-round," Kieran shared. "For our club, I
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COACH SPOTLIGHT: Coach Beard
Boys Junior Varsity BasketballBeyond the Scoreboard: Coach Beard’s Legacy of Leadership and TeamworkIf you’ve ever watched a game from the sidelines and heard a calm but commanding voice calling out, “Job’s not finished,” chances are you were listening to Coach Beard—a coach who doesn’t just build teams, but builds people.Currently serving as the head coach of the Boys JV Basketball team, Coach Beard has led the squad to back-to-back league championships, a testament to both his strategic mind and his unwavering belief in team culture. Beyond basketball, he’s shaping young athletes across the board—as the Middle School Baseball coach, former MS Cross Country coach, and a dedicated Small World teacher. His impact reaches students of all ages, abilities, and ambitions.Coach Beard lives by a powerful motto: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” It’s more than a quote—it’s the heartbeat of his coaching philosophy. For him, wins are just one piece
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Team Spotlight - Varsity Baseball Team
All Varsity BaseballTeam Spotlight - Varsity Baseball Team - April 2025Written by Sarah ChenThis spring, the Avenues Varsity Baseball team has its eyes on one thing: finishing strong. After a season of ups and downs, the team is focused on showing up to every game with energy, grit, and a mindset to compete at their highest level.Since the beginning of the season, the team has made noticeable progress—not just in execution, but in how they play together. Trust has grown, communication has sharpened, and the dugout vibe reflects a group of players who genuinely enjoy taking the field side by side. There’s a lightness to the way they carry themselves, even under pressure, that speaks to their connection as teammates.Ethan Rivera, a senior and longtime contributor to the program, reflected on how meaningful it’s been to get back on the field this year. With several seasons under his belt and a strong presence on the team, Ethan brings both experience and talent to the lineup. For him, every inning is a remin
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A New Era of Ultimate: Middle Grades Frisbee Becomes an Official Team
Mixed Middle School Ultimate FrisbeeInterview by Lucas PillemerAfter eight years of operating as a club, the Middle Grades Ultimate Frisbee program has officially become a recognized team—and it’s a milestone moment for both students and coaches who have helped build the program from the ground up.We sat down with Coach Profe Punzalan, the heart and soul behind the club since its inception, to reflect on this long-anticipated shift and what it means for the future."I think just the fact that the club has been around for 8 years, it felt like the next natural step for the team and group of kids," Profe shared. The foundation was laid when the varsity team was officially recognized three years ago. "They couldn't have two teams coming in at once, so now that we are a team after three years is very meaningful!"Despite already playing other schools as a club, the official recognition brings more visibility and structure to the team. "We’ve always been used to competing against other schools, even in our days as a c
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GAME DAY RECAP: Breaking Records and Barriers: Inside Gavin Wynn’s Championship Mindset
All Varsity Indoor TrackContributor: Sarah ChenThe New York State Federation Track and Field Championships bring together top athletes from various associations, including public, private, and independent schools, to compete for state titles. This event serves as a culmination of the season, highlighting the best performances across the state. Avenues has had 3 athletes qualify for Indoor Federation, Gavin being the 4th in Avenues history!Gavin Wynn, a standout athlete from Avenues, has demonstrated exceptional talent in middle-distance events. Notably, he set school records in the 3,200 meters with a time of 9:41.23 and in the 800 meters with 1:59.38. His dedication and performance have earned him multiple appearances at the Federation Championships. Click here to see the race!Now, let's hear it from Gavin. Reflecting on the Federation Championships, what aspects of your performance are you most proud of, and what challenges did you encounter during the competition? I’m super proud of m
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Team Spotlight: Building Bonds and Breaking Limits with Girls Varsity Lacrosse
Girls Varsity LacrosseContributors: Aquinnah McGrath and Wavey ColeAs the spring season kicks off, the Girls Varsity Lacrosse team is buzzing with new energy, fresh faces, and fierce determination. With over 30 girls trying out this year, the team is growing not just in size but in heart. This week’s Team Spotlight highlights voices from the field—players and coaches alike—offering a glimpse into what makes this team so special. Wavey and Aquinnah talk to some members and the Coach for some insight!11th Grade Kate SS, New To Lacrosse, Big on HeartFor Kate, joining the lacrosse team was about stepping outside her comfort zone—and into community.A big part of what motivated me to try out for lacrosse this year was my friends encouraging me... After basketball season ended, I knew I wanted to continue with a team sport, and lacrosse seemed like the perfect next step.Though it’s her first time picking up a lacrosse stick, she’s embraced the learning curve. The biggest challenge for me has been learning the
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Varsity Indoor Track and Field Team Competes at NYSAIS
All Varsity Indoor TrackLast Friday, the Indoor Track and Field team toed the line at the New York Independent School State Championships (NYSAIS). The team had a record-breaking day, including countless PRs and new school records in the 600m and 1600m. The point-scoring charge was led by Gavin W., who finished 2nd in the men's mile. His time of 4:18.97 further lowers his school record, and his finishing place of 2nd qualifies him to represent Avenues at the New York State Championship this Saturday March 8th. He goes into the competition ranked 7th. Wish him luck on his quest to bring home Avenues' first State medal! Alex T. furthered the point tally, finishing 4th in the men's 600m. In a time of 1:24.99, he drives his school record further out of reach. His performance concludes a season of serious growth as he dropped 4 seconds from the indoor opener in December. Watch out as he looks to shatter the outdoor 400m record this spring. Insa A. held up the women's dist
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Varsity Squash Nationals Recap
Boys Varsity SquashContributor, Jesminder VegaThe Varsity Squash team headed to Philadelphia and competed in 2025 U.S. High School Squash Nationals! The team put on an incredible performance, and Coach Geovanny Mejia couldn’t be more proud of their effort. He described the team’s performance as “extraordinary,” emphasizing their energy and focus. “Since the first game until the last one, the energy the team brought to all of the games was felt, and it was amazing,” Coach Mejia said.One of the standout moments came when Penelope, who was down 2-0 in her match, made an incredible comeback. She won three games in a row, and Coach Mejia was particularly impressed with her mindset. “her mentality helped her overcome these challenges, and this led her to win,” he shared. “Penelope’s mindset is a great example of how the team was mentally prepared to go into the nationals, to be competitive, have fun, and fight to the end, giving your all”Coach Mejia also highlighted how well the team handled the pre
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Farewell, Coach Bunbury
Boys Middle School Grey BasketballFarewell, Coach Bunbury: A Legacy of Growth, Character, and TeamworkContributor, Khairat TchakalaAs we close out the winter season we want to recognize a basketball coach that has been in our program for many years! After years of dedication, leadership, and mentorship, Coach Bunbury is moving on, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond wins and losses. His impact on student-athletes has been rooted in a philosophy that goes beyond the game—one that has shaped young athletes not just as competitors, but as individuals.Coaching Beyond the GameReflecting on his time at Avenues, Coach Bunbury shares the core philosophy that has guided him: the development of the whole person."I focus not just on improving athletic performance but also on nurturing character, teamwork, and resilience," he explains. "At Avenues, I aimed to foster an environment where student-athletes grow both on and off the court."This approach has been evident in every practice, every game, and every hud
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Athlete Spotlight: Kyla Guimaraes
Girls Varsity BasketballBalancing It All: Kyla’s Approach to Juggling Varsity Sports and BandFor many students, balancing one varsity sport and academics can feel like a full plate. For Kyla, a senior at Avenues and a tri-season varsity athlete, the challenge extends far beyond that. Not only does she compete in basketball, lacrosse, and ultimate frisbee, but she’s also a Second Dan black belt in Taekwondo and a dedicated member of the Advanced Band, where she plays the alto saxophone.A Packed ScheduleKyla’s days are jam-packed, and her roles speak to her leadership and dedication. She co-captains the Girls Varsity Basketball team, plays defense in lacrosse, and is an active member of the ultimate frisbee team. In Taekwondo, a year-round commitment, Kyla competes in fall tournaments. Meanwhile, she’s also been a cornerstone of the Advanced Band since freshman year, having switched to the saxophone after years of playing piano and clarinet.When asked how she manages this demanding schedule, Kyla explained her
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Coach Spotlight: Yehia Ellis, MS Fencing
All Middle School FencingFrom World Cups to Middle School: Coach Yehia Ellis Shapes Future FencersContributor Jesminder VegaThis season, the Middle School Fencing team has grown in both skill and confidence with guidance from Coach Yehia Ellis. From their first match to their most recent practice, "The entire team has grown more comfortable and confident with their fencing styles," Coach Yehia shared. "They have also significantly improved their ability to focus and perform under pressure."As a professional athlete himself, Coach Yehia brings extensive experience to his role. He currently competes on the senior international level for Morocco as a member of their national team, participating in World Cup tournaments that showcase the top 12 fencers from each participating country. His dedication to the sport is evident in his rigorous training schedule – five to six sessions weekly with his coach, complemented by additional conditioning work. Recently, he achieved a personal best, placing 69th out of 345 compe
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Avenues Fencing Shines at ISFL Individual Championships
All Varsity FencingContributor, Aquinnah McGrathThe Avenues fencing team made an impressive showing at this year’s ISFL Individual Championships, showcasing both skill and resilience. The competition was particularly challenging, especially for the team’s incoming freshmen, many of whom only began fencing in November. Despite the tough field, the team performed admirably, with several fencers coming tantalizingly close to medal placements.Avenues entered 11 fencers into the ISFL Individual Championships, achieving outstanding results in a highly competitive environment. Caleb Bahk won the Bronze Medal in Boys’ Saber, while Noe Mathew placed 5th in Women's Épée. Additionally, four fencers—Lucas Harder (Men's Foil), Theo Kuehn (Men's Épée), Doris Shan (Women's Épée), and Javier Mendez (Men's Foil)—all had incredibly close matches, each losing 14-15 in the Direct Elimination Rounds. A single point separated them from advancing further and potentially earning medals.“We were very impressed with how our team
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Team Spotlight: Varsity Squash
Boys Varsity SquashTeam Spotlight Varsity SquashContributor Jesminder VegaThis month, we’re highlighting the Avenues Squash team, a group that’s been making impressive progress both on and off the court. Coach Sat Seshadri shared some thoughts on the team’s progress, emphasizing their hard work and strong bond.“The team is relatively new compared to other school programs,” Coach Sat said, “but in the past three years, they’ve significantly improved their rankings.” That kind of progress doesn’t happen by accident, it’s a testament to their dedication and commitment.But it’s not just about rankings. More than anything, this team has built a real sense of community. “They’re a very close-knit group,” Coach Sat said. “They organize team meetings and dinners regularly,” which helps strengthen their connection beyond just playing together.But what does Coach Sat love most about coaching them? “The wide variety of ages that make up this team and their motivation to get better each week,” he shar
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Coach Spotlight: Coach Whatley
All Varsity Indoor TrackCoach Whatley: Building Resilient Athletes On and Off the TrackContributor, Wavey ColeCoach Whatley is more than just a coach—he is a mentor, motivator, and advocate for both the physical and mental well-being of his athletes. His coaching philosophy extends beyond winning, focusing on effort, learning, and continuous improvement. His dedication to fostering both athletic skill and a positive mindset has shaped a culture of resilience within his team.Balancing Athletic Development with Mental Strength“For me, it’s not just about winning or perfection,” says Coach Whatley. “I emphasize effort, learning, and progress, both in skill development and mindset. This approach helps athletes stay motivated and resilient in the face of setbacks.”By reinforcing the value of improvement over results, he ensures that his athletes develop confidence and perseverance, setting them up for long-term success both in their sport and beyond.Injury Prevention and Recovery: The Importance of RestOne of
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Athlete Spotlight: Alex Tsitiridis
All Varsity Indoor TrackBreaking Records and Inspiring Futures: The Stories of Insa A. and Alex T. This week, Avenues celebrates not one but two extraordinary athletes who have etched their names in school history. Insa A. broke two school records in the 600M and 1500M events, showcasing incredible resilience after overcoming injuries last year. Her hard work, discipline, and ability to balance intense training with academic responsibilities have inspired us all. Meanwhile, senior Alex T. shattered the school record in the 600M event, a testament to his unwavering commitment to self-improvement. From grueling workouts to focusing on recovery and learning from setbacks, Alex’s journey highlights the power of perseverance and preparation. Both athletes exemplify what it means to push boundaries and achieve greatness. Let’s hear from Insa and Alex as they share their reflections on these remarkable milestones and what lies ahead. Dive into their interviews to hear firsthand about their journeys, t
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Athlete Spotlight: Insa Akcoglu
All Varsity Indoor TrackRacing Into History: Insa A.'s Record-Breaking ComebackContributor, Jesminder Vega, Chair of Communications This week celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our community, and this week is no exception! Meet Insa A., whose grit and determination have rewritten the record books. Insa has not just broken one but two school track records, leaving her mark in the 600M and 1500M events. From overcoming setbacks to finding joy in her comeback, Insa’s journey is a powerful reminder that resilience and hard work pay off. Let’s dive into her story and hear from Insa about what this milestone means to her, how she balances academics and athletics, and what’s next on her horizon.Avenues Athletics celebrates an incredible achievement by Insa A., who broke not one but two school track records! Insa’a outstanding performance in the 600M event set a new record, and she followed it up with another record-breaking run in the 1500M event. When asked about her accomplishment, Insa sh
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TEAM SPOTLIGHT: On the Rise: A Glimpse into a Championship Season: Boys JV Basketball
Boys Junior Varsity BasketballThe Boys JV basketball team is on an incredible journey guided by Head Coach Shirod and Assistant Coach Brodnax, and led by captains Shaw McGrath and Luke Lawrence. With a blend of veteran leadership, fresh talent, and unwavering determination, the team has grown leaps and bounds from last season. From memorable victories that showcase their improvement to a focus on confidence, teamwork, and preparation, this season is shaping up to be one for the books.Shaw has stepped into his leadership role with grace, fostering connections and inspiring his teammates through hard work and dedication. Meanwhile, Coach Shirod’s emphasis on energy, discipline, and consistent effort has set the foundation for their success. With eyes on an undefeated season and a championship title, the team is not just playing to win—they’re playing to grow.Read two interviews to dive deeper into the highlights, strategies, and lessons that are shaping this standout season.Interview: Coach Shirod, Boys JV Head Coach
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Rising to the Challenge: Coach Bunbury Reflects on the Boys MS Greys Thrilling Match Against Heschel
Boys Middle School Grey BasketballContributor, Wavey Cole, Student Body LiasionWe’re excited to bring you an exclusive interview with Coach Adrianne Bunbury following the Boys MS Basketball Greys electrifying matchup against Heschel. The game went into overtime and was an incredible matchup! This game wasn’t just another contest; it was a showcase of resilience, teamwork, and the power of believing in one another.In this interview, Coach Bunbury shares his reflections on the team’s performance, from the intense final moments to the standout plays that shifted momentum. He also offers insights into the team’s growth this season, the challenges they faced, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. Click here for a video on the last couple minutes of the game!This is a glimpse into what happens on and off the court—how the game builds not just skills, but character, focus, and trust.So, let’s dive in and hear from Coach Bunbury as he highlights the incredible effort of our athletes and the memorable moments
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Team Spotlight: Girls Varsity Volleyball (A) (1/8/25)
All Varsity A VolleyballA Peek into the Volleyball Team’s OffseasonContributor: Sarah Chen, AAC Chair of Athletic EventsVarsity volleyball at Avenues is much more than just a fall sport–it's a year-round passion for many of the team’s players, fueled by their participation in competitive club volleyball. Team A’s Coach Wilson, who also runs NYC Juniors volleyball club, shares how this helps her players grow.“Club volleyball is a completely different experience,” she explains. With the longer season, age-specific teams, and high-level competition, players can focus on building their individual skills and compete against the best athletes in the area. The season runs from November through May, with top-tier teams traveling across the country, showcasing their skills to college coaches. This extensive training pays off during the school season, where players bring sharpened skills and better strategies into the Avenues gym.While the school season is short–just 8 to 10 weeks–it’s packed with games and team-o
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Coach Spotlight - Coach Len Battifarano (1/8/25)
All Varsity FencingInterview by - Jesminder Vega, Chair of Communications Avenues’ fencing program isn’t just about individual skill. It’s about building a strong, cohesive team. This year, fencing coach Len Battifarano implemented a mentorship program focused on making a difference. After tryouts revealed a mix of experienced and brand-new fencers, Coach Len drew inspiration from his own experience mentoring at Columbia University’s Graduate School. Coach explained, “I just had the idea of mentorship in my head,” and decided to pair upperclassmen with freshmen and sophomores. The program’s goals are threefold: To foster team unityTo improve the skills of younger fencers, and To enhance the awareness of older fencers. As Coach Len said,“If I’m trying to teach you foil fencing…and I’ve been doing it a long time, I’ve got some bad habits.” By mentoring, the older fencers refine their own techniques while providing invaluable guidance to their younger teammates.
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