This Week in Athletics
April 5, 2024
Exciting Times on the Mesa: A Look at Cate Athletics
Over the past few weeks, the Mesa has been buzzing with excitement as Cate Athletics showcases a mix of triumphs and challenges across various sports. From the diamond to the pool, volleyball court, tennis courts, lacrosse fields, and track, the Rams have been leaving their mark with stellar performances and unwavering determination.
Rams Baseball: A Tale of Triumphs and Challenges on the Diamond
Quinn Pullen ’25 – Image by Katie
Over the past two weeks, the Cate Baseball team has seen a mix of highs and lows. Beginning with an impressive 19-0 victory over the Villanova Wildcats, the Rams demonstrated their offensive prowess and solid teamwork. However, their winning streak came to a halt with an 8-0 loss against Valley Christian Academy, where they struggled to find their rhythm at the plate. Despite this setback, the Rams bounced back with a resilient 19-9 victory against Newbury Park Adventist, showcasing their offensive firepower once again. While pitching proved to be a challenge in the latest game, Coach Soto commended on the team’s defensive efforts and positive strides. With one more non-league game on the horizon before league play begins, the Rams are focused on fine-tuning their skills and working towards their goals for the remainder of the season. Their next match against Bishop Diego promises to be an exciting showdown as they aim to continue their upward trajectory.
Cate Boys Volleyball: Triumphs and Trials in Action-Packed Matches
Henry Bouma ’25 – Image by Katie
In a series of intense matches, Cate Boys Varsity Volleyball showcased remarkable teamwork and resilience, securing victories despite facing tough opposition. Against Foothill, a stellar performance from setter Zadin Stephens ’25, supported by impactful contributions from players like Dilan Lee ’24 and Max DeVore ’24, propelled the team to a commanding three-set sweep, marked by key plays and a sense of cohesion. The following matches against Dunn and St. Bonaventure saw the team overcoming initial challenges through strategic adjustments and collective effort, exemplified by standout performances from Ben Richmond ’24 and Lucian Tann ’26. However, despite their determined play, a disappointing loss to Laguna Blanca underscored the team’s need for continued improvement. Nevertheless, they bounced back with resilience in subsequent matches, with notable performances from players like Richmond, DeVore ’25, and Oliver Lee ’24, showcasing their depth and determination. Though facing setbacks, the team’s unwavering spirit and commitment to each other promise an exciting continuation of their season.
Cate Boys Tennis: Defying Odds, Achieving Triumph Through Grit
Ethan Bloom ’24 – Image by Katie
In a series of gripping matches, Cate Boys Tennis showcased their resilience and determination against formidable opponents. On March 26th, they secured a remarkable 11-7 victory against Camarillo High School, despite the latter’s impressive record. Notably, Hirofuji ’27’s tenacity and Blanco’s ’24 comeback win stood out, clinching crucial points for Cate. Two days later, on March 28, Cate continued their winning streak with a dominant 14-4 victory over Thacher, displaying exceptional performance in singles and doubles play. However, on April 2nd, the team faced a tough loss against San Marcos, yet demonstrated admirable effort against a strong opponent. Despite the setback, Cate remains undeterred, showing continuous improvement and determination as they progress through the season. Their next match against Carpinteria High School promises another exciting showdown at home.
Cate Girls Lacrosse Reigns Supreme with Dominant Home Victories
Lucy Guillbert-Neal ’25 – Image by Katie
In a spectacular display of skill and teamwork, the Cate girls’ varsity lacrosse team showcased their dominance in back-to-back home games against Nordoff and Valencia. Against Nordoff, Cate asserted control early and maintained it throughout the game, securing a commanding 12-3 victory. Stellar performances from players like Perry James ’25 and Sam Jimenez ’25 in the midfield, alongside Maia Holmes’s ’26 (also recipient to Santa Barbara’s Athlete of the Week in Santa Barbara) dominant presence in the attack, propelled Cate to success. The momentum carried into their match against Valencia, where Cate secured an exhilarating upset with a hard-fought 7-6 win. Led by Lucy Guilbert-Neal ’25’s strategic play and Maia Holmes’s scoring prowess, the team’s relentless determination shone brightly as they outplayed their opponents. Their triumphant week culminated in another impressive 12-6 victory against Thacher, marked by strong defensive plays from Lauren Hubbs ’26 and Sophie Alijani ’24, showcasing the team’s depth and resilience. As they continue to build confidence and cohesion, Cate’s outstanding performances promise an exciting season ahead.
Boys Lacrosse: Triumph in Ojai Against Thacher
Coach Charlie Feid and Oliver Charvel ’26 – Image by Katie
With only one game since the previous CommuniCATE Article, the Boys Lacrosse team seized victory in a hard-fought battle against Thacher, emerging triumphant with a 7-4 win. Despite facing a determined opponent and initial challenges in finding offensive rhythm, Cate’s resilience and strategic adjustments propelled them forward. Standout performances from players like Cody Mast ’25 and Burak Yanar ’24 showcased exceptional leadership and skill, with Mast’s three goals and two assists instrumental in securing the win. Supported by stellar defensive efforts from younger players like Grant Mitchell ’25 and Riley Valente ’26, the team demonstrated composure and intensity throughout the game. As they regroup and prepare for future challenges, Cate’s victory serves as a testament to their dedication and determination on the field.
Record-Breaking Performances Light Up Carpinteria HS Track & Field Meet: Running Rams Dominate with Personal Bests and Season Records
Oyin Opawumi ’26 -Image by Katie
Carpinteria High School’s track and field event was ablaze with remarkable achievements as the Running Rams showcased their prowess against Carp, Foothill Tech, Thacher, and Villanova. Among the standout performances were Josie Frazier ’24’s sensational triple jump PR and Sophie Blank ’27’s triple threat of personal records. On the boys’ side, George Gordon ’24 and Miles Thompson ’27 led the charge with their stellar wins and personal bests. With eyes set on the upcoming Russell Cup, the running Rams invite all to witness their electrifying athleticism on April 13.
In conclusion, the past two weeks in Cate Athletics have been nothing short of thrilling, with each team showcasing resilience, determination, and remarkable skill in their respective sports. As the season progresses, the Mesa remains abuzz with anticipation for the upcoming matchups and further displays of athletic excellence from Cate’s talented athletes.
For more photos and details to our game recaps each week please visit our website at Cate.org/news, our NEW Cate Athletics Instagram, and NEW Cate Athletics Facebook page.