This Week in Athletics
January 19, 2024
Welcome to another edition of This Week in Athletics where we breakdown what is happening on the Mesa with our winter sports. It is hard to believe the winter regular season game schedule is already more than halfway over. Here are the updates to what has been happening on the field, pool, and court with our Rams.
Boys Varsity Basketball: A Dynamic Start to 2024, Embracing Challenges and Victories on the Court
The new year has kicked off with a thrilling series of games for the Cate Rams Boys Varsity Basketball team, boasting an impressive record of 8-3. In a nail-biting encounter against St Bonaventure, the Rams showcased unparalleled determination, despite being severely undersized. Marcus Scudder ‘25 led the charge with 23 points, but St Bonaventure’s Dylan Benner, an Army commit, put up a tough fight with 26 points. The Battle of the 192 against Carpinteria was nothing short of a heart-stopping spectacle, culminating in a triumphant 37-34 victory for Cate. Julian Lee ‘24 and Chase Meyer ‘26 played heroically, overcoming foul troubles to secure the win with phenomenal defense in the second half. As the Rams faced Dunn in a tough Tri-Valley League matchup, the excitement continued. Although the game ended in a 61-79 loss, the team showcased resilience and glimpses of brilliance, with Jacob Gabbay ‘25 and Marcus Scudder leading the charge. With a record of 8-3, the Cate Rams are gearing up for more thrilling matchups and are determined to make every moment on the court count, aiming to play a full 32 minutes of intense and smart basketball. The journey continues with anticipation building for the upcoming clash against Santa Clara to conclude the first round of Tri-Valley League. Get ready for an exhilarating ride as the Rams navigate the challenges and victories that the new year brings to their basketball court.
Girls Varsity Basketball Triumphs: Resilience Shines in Thrilling Victory Over Santa Clara
In a riveting season marked by resilience, the Cate Girls Varsity Basketball team, with a commendable 7-5 record, recently triumphed over Santa Clara in a crucial matchup. Overcoming two challenging league losses, the Rams showcased their tenacity in a spirited clash characterized by aggressive full-court defense and composed, unselfish play. A halftime tie at 12-12 escalated into an exciting second half, where a surprise full-court trapping defense and stellar offensive contributions, particularly from Sophia Ospina ‘25, propelled the Rams to a 31-29 victory. Riley Pan ’24 relentless defensive pressure, transitioning from a press to a box-and-one, played a pivotal role in stifling Santa Clara’s top scorer. Despite some free-throw challenges in the final minutes, the Rams held off the Saints, securing an exhilarating win and further solidifying their status as a formidable force in an electrifying basketball season.
Girls Water Polo Dominates League Matches: Historic 2-0 Start Sparks Excitement for the Season Ahead
The Cate Girls Water Polo team showcased remarkable resilience and teamwork in two league matches. In the first game against Foothill Tech High School, the team took an early lead, displaying effective ball movement and unselfish play. Despite Foothill’s spirited comeback, an overtime penalty shot goal by Kate McCoy ’25 secured an 11-10 victory. Goal scorers included Ani Van Lynde ’25, Kate McCoy, Lucy Guilbert-Neal ’25, and Violet Monda ’27, with Daisy Gemberling ’25 making crucial saves in the goal. Defensive standouts were Claire Clark ’24, Tallulah Bates ’25, and Betsy Peters ’27. In the second match against Villanova Prep, the team dominated with a 6-1 halftime lead and ultimately secured an 8-4 win. Offensive contributors included Kate McCoy, Tallulah Bates, Ani Van Lynde, and Lucy Guilbert-Neal, while Daisy Gemberling, Karla Camacho ’24, and Betsy Peters stood out defensively. The team’s focus, execution, and defensive improvements contributed to a historic 2-0 league start and a 3-1 season record, marking the best start in years. The Rams look forward to building on this success in upcoming league games.
Girls Soccer: Triumphs, Trials, and Resilience on the Pitch, Facing Setback Against Rival Thacher School
The Cate girls soccer team experienced a rollercoaster of emotions in their recent games. On Friday, January 12th, they secured a 4-2 victory against Bishop Diego HS, highlighted by Josie Frazer ’24 impressive hat trick, including a remarkable penalty kick. Fiona Pan ’27 corner kick set up a beautiful goal by Nika Iverson ’26 and Precious Adjei ’27. The team showcased a strong possession game, with Claire Bianchi ’26 excellent midfield play. However, the joy was short-lived as they faced a tight 0-1 defeat against St. Bonaventure on Saturday, January 13th. Despite a valiant effort, they couldn’t convert numerous chances. The triangular passing game and notable performances, especially from Jeeyou Jung ’25 and Zoë Flint ’25, were commendable. The following Tuesday, January 15th, saw a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Foothill Tech. Jeeyou Jung’s crucial saves and Zoë Flint’s stellar defensive play stood out. The team displayed a strong passing game, with Fiona’s midfield prowess evident. Despite the challenges, the girls are geared up for upcoming matches, appreciating the support from dedicated fans.
Adding to the narrative, the girls faced a recent setback in a disappointing 2-5 loss to Thacher School, their rival. This defeat marked a tough moment for the team, emphasizing the need for regrouping and refining strategies. Despite the setback, the girls remain determined, appreciating the support from dedicated fans as they prepare for upcoming matches
Undefeated Excellence: Boys Varsity Soccer Continues Dominant Streak in New Year
The Cate Rams Boys Varsity Soccer team continued their unbeaten streak with a series of impressive performances in the new year. In the first match against Grace Lancers, George Marin’s hat trick and solid contributions from Uriel Beltran-Campuzano ’25 and others led to a 7-0 home win. Despite key losses due to injuries, the team returned after a break, displaying eagerness and readiness to win. They secured a 2-0 victory against Foothill Tech, with goals from Kiy Barry ’26 and TJ Weir ’25. The Rams continued their winning streak against Bishop Diego with a 6-1 victory, featuring a hat trick from George Marin ’26. The team showcased consistency and teamwork, with only two goals conceded in six matches. In a much-anticipated matchup against Dunn Earwigs, both teams displayed aggression, resulting in a 0-0 draw at the half. Despite numerous scoring chances and a coordinated attack in overtime, the Rams settled for a 0-0 tie. Despite the draw, the team demonstrated unity, grit, and a fast-paced brand of soccer. With an undefeated record of 8-0-1, the Rams look forward to their next challenge against Foothill Tech.
In the heart of the Mesa, our Cate Rams athletes have unfolded a captivating narrative across fields, courts, and pools. From the tenacious battles on the basketball court, where the Boys Varsity team showcases dynamic prowess and resilient determination, to the thrilling triumphs of the Girls Varsity Basketball team, overcoming adversities to secure a commendable record. The pool echoes with the dominance of the Girls’ Water Polo team, marking a historic 2-0 league start and igniting excitement for the season ahead. On the soccer pitch, the Girls’ team experiences triumphs, trials, and an unwavering spirit, facing a setback but remaining resilient in the face of challenges. Meanwhile, the Boys Varsity Soccer team continues its unbeaten streak, displaying consistency, teamwork, and a fast-paced brand of soccer that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. As the winter season unfolds, the Rams embody determination, unity, and the spirit of true student-athletes, leaving fans eager for more thrilling moments on the Mesa.