#1StudentNWI: Bittersweet kickoff to Washington Township’s school year

#1StudentNWI: Bittersweet kickoff to Washington Township’s school year

WHAT'S HAPPENED RECENTLY

For the first time in Washington Township’s history, the boys' soccer team became sectional runner-ups. Since it began competing in the LaVille division of sectionals, it has not been able to make it into the sectional finals until this year.  

The team was led by the senior captains Edgar Cavanaugh, Spencer Moore, and Marek Robinson. Moore finished this season with 35 goals, making him the record holder of Washington Township’s most goals in a season and also in a high school career.

Washington Township Boys' Soccer Team

Robinson broke the record for most assists during one season and finished the year with 26 assists. When asked how he felt about participating in the final, he expressed his excitement for the opportunity to be in the final. 

“Obviously losing the final was not ideal and hurt me deeply, but I was proud of what we managed to achieve to that point,” said Robinson. 

The boys' soccer team finished the season with a balanced record of eight wins and eight losses. The boys' team included 30 members, 12 of whom were seniors. While some members had never played soccer before, others have been playing since they were in elementary school, so the program had good examples for the upcoming players.

Washington Township defeated Oregon-Davis and Westville to advance to the finals. Ultimately, it lost to Trinity 3 - 0 in the championship game of sectionals and took the runner-up title.

WHAT'S COMING UP

Students are getting excited as the chilly months approach. The end of fall sports brings anticipation for high school basketball season, homecoming, and winter break.

As can be seen on many Friday nights, students love to support the basketball teams from the stands, wearing senator gear and cheering loudly. The smell of popcorn, the upbeat sound of the pep band, and the sight of tons of red and black are familiarities at home games.

The girls' basketball team recently began its season, currently holding a record of 6-0. The team will continue to compete through January. The boys' basketball season begins this week, with its first game away at Victory Christian Academy. 

Come support both the girls' and boys' basketball teams on December 3, with the girls' game starting at 5:30 and boys following. Students are eagerly anticipating the homecoming game and court nominations. As part of the homecoming game tradition, the homecoming court will be announced between games. 

With only three weeks left until break, students are excitedly awaiting Christmas break. With upcoming finals, students still have work to do but are motivated by the nearing break.

TEACHER SPOTLIGHT

As seen throughout the community of Washington Township, the entire school loved Mrs. Julie Moore. Moore was a teacher at Washington Township for 14 years. She provided numerous dual credit business classes, but she was most known and appreciated for her dedication to her students. 

Mrs. Julie Moore posing with DECA Award

Previously a computer programmer and accountant, Moore switched to teaching and students have benefited significantly since. Moore entered school early and allowed students to finish assignments or ask questions. She truly cared for students and her extra time with students helped them become amazing leaders and learners. 

Throughout years of classes with Moore, the students created long-lasting bonds that brought about life lessons and amazing memories. Students began taking business and typing classes with Moore in middle school and had the opportunity to continue taking advanced business classes throughout all four years of high school. 

When Moore began teaching at Washington Township in 2007, she also created a Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) chapter. DECA supported students in learning business techniques, collaboration, and helpful skills for future careers.

The entire school was devastated by her passing in September. In her honor, the Julie Moore Memorial Scholarship was created for aspiring business students.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Senior Brendan Gschwind has excelled in both academics and extracurriculars within his high school career. Gschwind managed to balance participation in multiple academic teams, band, Boy Scouts, key club, and National Honor Society. 

Washington Township Senior
Brendan Gschwind

Gschwind began participating in academic teams in middle school and advanced to strengthen the high school academic teams. In 2021, Gschwind was part of the interdisciplinary team that tied for the state championship. Throughout the duration of high school, Gschwind aided the social studies team for four years, the English team for one year, the math team for one year, and the interdisciplinary team for two years.  

As a significant member of Washington Township’s band, Gschwind performed two saxophone group I solos. Last year, he was awarded a gold medal in the state competition. Gschwind has also participated in the marching band. Through marching band, Gschwind has been able to play in the Scarecrow Festival, Popcorn Festival, and at Cedar Point in Ohio. 

Many of Gschwind’s extracurriculars benefited the community through his volunteering. Gschwind earned the highest honor within Boy Scouts, becoming a BSA Eagle Scout. Gschwind volunteered with both key club and National Honor Society at numerous events.