WINTER season '23-'24 REVIEW

Welcome to the Athletic Department's winter edition of our newsletter!

As we bid farewell to the winter season, it is with immense pride and joy that we reflect on the remarkable achievements of our student-athletes across all sports teams. The Ken-Ton spirit has shone brightly on courts, mats, pools, tracks, and rinks, with our teams showcasing exceptional talent, dedication, and sportsmanship throughout the season.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the student-athletes who have poured their hearts into their respective sports. Your hard work and determination have truly paid off, setting new benchmarks of excellence for the entire community. A special round of applause goes to those teams who clinched the prestigious Niagara Frontier League Championships and Sectional titles!

Behind every successful team stands a pillar of support, and we're immensely grateful to the parents, coaches, supervisors, and staff members who have dedicated their time, energy, and expertise to nurture our athletes' talents. Your guidance, encouragement, and sacrifices have been instrumental in shaping our student-athletes into the champions they are today.

As we celebrate these achievements, let's also remember the invaluable lessons learned on the journey – the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and resilience. These qualities not only define our athletic programs but also prepare our students for success beyond the playing field.

Once again, congratulations to all our winter sports teams! Your triumphs have brought immense pride to the Ken-Ton community, and we look forward to cheering you on as you continue to soar to new heights in the seasons ahead.

Lindsay Bergman, Director of Health, Physical Education, & Athletics

What's New in Athletics

WELCOME NEW COACHES

This spring, the Athletic Department is excited to introduce a number of coaches in new positions at Kenmore East and Kenmore West. These individuals add former playing and coaching experience to our programs. Good luck this season!

CHAMPIONSHIPS

Congratulations to our Ken-Ton Athletes that competed in and won championships this season:

KENMORE BOYS SWIMMING

In a remarkable display of talent, the Kenmore Boys Swim Team clinched multiple first-place finishes at the Niagara Frontier League Championships. Brady Garcia showcased his abilities in the pool by securing first place in both the 500 Freestyle and the 200 Freestyle events, while Alex Schuler dominated the competition in the 100 Backstroke, earning another first-place victory.

Adding to the team's success, the 200 Medley Relay team, consisting of Alex Schuler, Brady Garcia, Rowan Riley, and Dominik Engel, swam their way to victory, claiming the top spot. Similarly, the 400 Freestyle Relay team, comprising of the same four swimmers, Schuler, Riley, Engel, and Garcia, delivered a stellar performance, securing yet another first-place finish for Kenmore.

The triumphs continued at the Section VI meet as Brady Garcia stood atop the podium once again. Garcia's exceptional performance in the 500 Freestyle event earned him another first-place finish, further solidifying his status as a standout swimmer.

Alex Schuler and Brady Garcia both earned the honor of representing Kenmore at the state level. Schuler's outstanding skills in the 100 Backstroke secured him a spot as a state qualifier, while Garcia's impressive performances in both the 200 and 500 Freestyle events earned him the opportunity to compete at the state level as well.

KENMORE BOYS BOWLING

In a season filled with excitement and hard-fought battles, the Kenmore Boys Bowling team emerged as a dominant force, securing league & Section titles and earning a coveted spot in the NYSPHSAA State Championships.

The team's journey to success was nothing short of remarkable. With a record of 12-2, they swept through the competition to claim the Niagara Frontier League title, showcasing their skill and determination on the lanes. Their triumphs didn't end there, as they went on to conquer the Section VI Class A and Division 1 title in a nail-biting finale. In a display of sheer resilience, the team rallied from a 50-pin deficit in the last game to clinch victory by the same margin.

With their sights set on the state championships, the Kenmore Combined Boys Bowling traveled to Liverpool, NY. Competing on March 10th, the team gave it their all and produced strong games. Saban Coric was recognized as the sportsmanship recipient for Kenmore.

KENGI-PORT GIRLS ICE HOCKEY

The KenGI-Port Girls Varsity Ice Hockey team had an unforgettable journey this season, clinching the Section VI Championship for the third consecutive year. Their remarkable run saw them progress through the Far West Regional and State Semifinals, showcasing their talents on the ice. Although the ultimate victory eluded them in the Finals against the formidable Adirondack United, their determination and skill was left out on the ice.

With a stellar 19-4 record, the team's dominance was evident throughout the season. Their impressive performance included a 10-game winning streak, demonstrating their resilience and commitment to excellence.

Leading the charge in scoring were GI junior Bella Jayme and KW junior Izzy Bourgeault, whose offensive skillset kept the opponents on their toes throughout the season. Their skillful play and relentless determination propelled the team forward in crucial moments. The team also boasted exceptional talent in the net. KW senior Sam Horne delivered standout performances throughout the season, showcasing her goalkeeping skills with an impressive six shutouts. Her stellar performance undoubtedly played a pivotal role in the team's success, earning her recognition as one of the league's best goaltenders.

While the season may have ended with a tough loss in the Finals, the KenGI-Port Girls Ice Hockey team's achievements stand as a testament to their dedication, teamwork, and unwavering spirit. As they reflect on their journey, they can take pride in their accomplishments and look forward to even greater success in the seasons to come.

KENMORE EAST BOYS ICE HOCKEY

The Kenmore East Boys Varsity Ice Hockey team secured the Section VI Division II Championship on Friday, February 23rd. Under the adept leadership of head coach Kyle Pray and the entire staff, the team showcased outstanding abilities throughout the season, culminating in a well-deserved victory.

Despite entering the WNY Varsity Ice Hockey Federation playoffs as the No. 7 seed, the team defied expectations with a remarkable 15-5 record. Their journey to the championship was nothing short of spectacular, marked by impressive victories over formidable opponents. They triumphed over the No. 10 seed Lewiston-Porter with a commanding 6-2 win on February 16th, followed by a decisive 5-1 victory against the No. 2 seed Williamsville East on February 18th. The momentum continued as they claimed a hard-fought 3-1 win against the No. 1 seed Starpoint on February 21st. Finally, on February 23rd, they delivered a performance to remember, defeating the No. 5 seed West Seneca West with a resounding 6-1 score line to clinch the championship title.

The team's journey did not end there, as they then set their sights on the NYS quarterfinal, scheduled for Saturday, March 2nd at the Rochester Institute of Technology. The Bulldogs faced the Section V combined team Batavia-Notre Dame United. As the game was forced into overtime, Kenmore East fell short of advancing to the state semifinals.

KENMORE WEST GIRLS BASKETBALL

In a thrilling showdown at the Niagara Frontier League Girls Basketball Championship, the Kenmore West Lady Blue Devils emerged victorious against Lewiston-Porter, securing their title with a final score of 48-42. The game was a nail-biter from start to finish, keeping fans on the edge of their seats with every play.

Sophia Balsano showcased her prowess on the court, contributing to her team's victory with an impressive performance, tallying 15 points and 14 rebounds. Addy Van Dewater delivered a crucial play in the game's final moments, sinking a remarkable 3-pointer with just 26 seconds remaining, and finishing the game with 14 points to her name. Meanwhile, Sami Padilla demonstrated her skills, notching up 12 points for the team. Sarah Seyfang's seven points and ten rebounds were invaluable to the Blue Devils' victory. Additionally, Maddy Rice and Rachel Kelting exhibited exceptional defensive efforts throughout the game, contributing to their team's resilience and ultimately securing the win.

With a league-best record of 11-1, the Blue Devils have proven themselves as contenders in the Niagara Frontier League. Their dedication, hard work, and unwavering determination propelled them to this championship victory. The entire team deserves recognition for their outstanding season, as they've demonstrated what can be achieved through teamwork and commitment to excellence.

KENMORE WEST INDOOR TRACK

Kenmore West High School's Aniyah Mungo made waves during the indoor track scene, securing victories and breaking records along the way. The 12th Grade Blue Devil has not only dominated her events but has also etched her name in school history with her remarkable performances.

Mungo's most recent triumph came at the Section 6 State Qualifier Meet held at Houghton College on February 17th. Competing in the fiercely contested 300 meters, Mungo showcased her exceptional talent by clinching 1st place. What's more impressive is that she did so with flair, shaving nearly two seconds off the existing school record.

Buoyed by her stellar performance, Mungo continued her journey to represent Section 6 at the prestigious NYSPHSAA State Championships. The event, held at the renowned Ocean Breeze Track and Field in Staten Island, brought together the finest high school athletes from across the state. Amidst fierce competition, Mungo demonstrated her speed once again on the track, earning recognition as one of the standout performers of the championships.

KENMORE WEST UNIFIED BOWLING

The Kenmore West Unified Bowling Team wrapped up an exceptional season, filled with triumphs, teamwork, and a whole lot of strikes! With dedication and passion, this group of a dozen bowlers, consisting of six athletes and six partners, showcased remarkable skill and sportsmanship throughout the season. The pinnacle of their achievements came at the Section VI Unified Bowling Championships match held at Airport Lanes in Cheektowaga, where the team emerged victorious, claiming the coveted first-place title.

NIAGARA FRONTIER LEAGUE SPORTSMANSHIP AWARDS

Each season coaches and athletes from the nine schools that make up the Niagara Frontier League (NFL) are asked to identify their opponents who, in their mind, exemplified the highest degree of sportsmanship during the season. We are proud of our Ken-Ton teams that earned such high praise. In addition, the following students were chosen for their commitment to the virtues of fair play.

ADPRO SPORTS/SECTION VI SCHOLAR-ATHLETE ALL WNY TEAM

Section VI and ADPRO Sports team together each season to present student athletes with All-WNY Scholar Athlete and Honorable Mention recognition. The criteria for nomination includes: a senior athlete who is a starter or important reserve and an average of 90 or higher for the last 6 (fall/winter) or 7 (spring) semesters. Congratulations to all our Ken-Ton scholar-athletes!

NYSPHSAA SCHOLAR ATHLETE TEAMS

At the close of each sport season, the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) recognizes teams that finish with an average GPA for 75% of the roster greater than or equal to 90.00. We are proud to report that many teams earned that distinction this season Congratulations to our students, families and coaches for keeping academic achievement at the forefront.

ATHLETIC HONORS

The following athletes were selected All-Division or All-League in their respective sport:

OTHER RECOGNITION

KENMORE WEST GIRLS BASKETBALL STAFF APPRECIATION NIGHT

On February 1st, the Kenmore West Varsity Girls Basketball team honored staff members before the game. A sincere thank you to all those staff members that have had a positive impact on our student-athletes!

KENMORE EAST BOYS BASKETBALL VISITS EDISON & FRANKLIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Before the end of their season, the Kenmore East Varsity Boys Basketball team visited both Edison and Franklin Elementary Schools. The team spent time running drills and practicing skills with students in their Physical Education classes.

KENMORE EAST CHEERLEADING - NATIONAL GIRLS AND WOMEN IN SPORTS DAY

To commemorate National Women in Sports Day, the Kenmore East varsity cheer team paid a visit to Hoover Elementary. They dedicated their morning to assisting 3rd graders with their biography reports on renowned female athletes. What a fantastic initiative to champion women in sports!

NIAGARA PAL AWARDS

On Sunday, March 10th, the Niagara Police Athletic League held its annual sports awards banquet. As members of the Niagara Frontier League, both Kenmore East and Kenmore West student-athletes were recognized for their outstanding achievements and commitment to athletics. Congratulations to our student-athletes who were nominated by coaches and selected as the Kenmore East and Kenmore West Athletes of the Year.

upcoming events & important dates

Spring Sports Start Date: Monday, March 11th

The Westies: Monday, June 10th

The Easties: Tuesday, June 18th

KEN-TON ATHLETICS WEBSITE

final forms - sports registration

The Athletics Department uses FinalForms forms for all sports signups. To complete the registration process, both a parent/guardian and student athlete must complete the required forms. Click on the button below to get started:

ATHLETICS SCHEDULES

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