spring season '24 REVIEW
Welcome to the Athletic Department's spring edition of our newsletter!
As we conclude another vibrant spring season, it's time to reflect on the incredible successes and milestones achieved by our school community. From thrilling Unified Basketball games to commendable performances in contests and selecting our newest Hall of Fame inductees, this season has been nothing short of spectacular.
This spring, our Unified Basketball teams showcased their skills and sportsmanship in two exciting school day games. The energy was palpable as students, staff, and community members gathered to support and cheer for our athletes. These games were more than just a display of talent; they were a testament to the spirit of inclusivity and camaraderie that our schools foster. The athletes' dedication and teamwork left a lasting impression on everyone present, highlighting the importance of unity and cooperation in sports.
Our athletes also made their mark in various regular season and sectional contests, demonstrating excellence and determination. Their hard work and commitment throughout the season have been inspiring, bringing pride to our schools and setting new benchmarks for future seasons.
One of the most meaningful highlights of this spring was the selection of new members into our Kenmore East Athletic Hall of Fame. These individuals have made significant contributions to our school's athletic programs and have set exemplary standards both on and off the field. Their legacies serve as an inspiration to current and future students, reminding us all of the values of perseverance, integrity, and excellence. We are proud to honor their achievements and celebrate their lasting impact on our school community.
As we celebrate these accomplishments, we look forward to building on this success in the coming seasons. The spring of 2024 has set a high bar, but with the same spirit of dedication and community, we are confident that our future endeavors will continue to shine brightly.
Thank you to all the athletes, coaches, staff, and supporters who made this season unforgettable. Your passion and commitment are the heart of our schools' successes.
Lindsay Bergman, Director of Health, Physical Education, & Athletics
What's New in Athletics
STUDENT-ATHLETE PRE-SEASON MEETINGS
We're excited to share the highlights from our Spring Pre-Season meetings, held on March 18th (Kenmore East) and 19th (Kenmore West). These gatherings brought together our talented student-athletes to discuss topics essential for their success both on and off the playing surfaces.
At the heart of these meetings was a focus on education-based athletics, reinforcing our commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. Discussions centered around academic eligibility requirements, emphasizing the importance of balancing academic excellence with athletic pursuits. Additionally, our sessions delved into communication, awards nights, and the Standards of Behavior, outlining the expectations and responsibilities of student-athletes representing Ken-Ton. From sportsmanship to teamwork, these standards serve as guiding principles for our student-athletes, fostering a culture of respect and integrity.
KENMORE WEST HOSTS UNIFIED BASKETBALL SCHOOL DAY GAME
The Unified Basketball program is a testament to the power of inclusion and acceptance. It brings together students of all abilities, creating an environment where everyone is celebrated for their unique talents and contributions. As we watched the Kenmore East and Kenmore West athletes and partners dribble down the court, you couldn't help but be inspired by their determination and resilience.
What struck many of us most was the genuine camaraderie between the athletes and their partners. Whether they were scoring a basket or offering a high-five after a good play, there was an undeniable sense of friendship that transcended any differences. It was a reminder that in the game of basketball, and in life, we are stronger together.
But beyond the scoreboards and buzzer beaters, it was the moments of pure joy and celebration that we remember. The smiles on the faces of the athletes lit up the gymnasium, spreading contagious happiness to everyone in attendance. In those moments, it didn't matter who won or lost; what mattered was the shared experience of coming together as a community.
So here's to the athletes, partners, coaches, and supporters who make Unified Basketball more than just a game. Thank you for showing us the power of inclusion, teamwork, and the unbreakable bonds of friendship. Until next time, let's continue to celebrate the beauty of diversity both on and off the court.
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.
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.
ATHLETIC HONORS
The following athletes were selected All-Division or All-League in their respective sport:
OTHER recognition
NFHS AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Award of Excellence for Sportsmanship, Ethics, and Integrity honors student-athletes who have demonstrated exceptional sportsmanship and character. To receive the award, recipients must exemplify the highest standards of sportsmanship, ethical conduct, and moral character, and be endorsed by their respective state high school associations. The NFHS Coaches Association Awards Committee selects recipients, and the NFHS Board of Directors approves them. Congratulations to both Kenmore East and Kenmore West student-athletes and coaches for this high honor.
KENMORE EAST AND KENMORE WEST SIGNING DAYS
Congratulations to our Bulldogs and Blue Devils. We wish you the best of luck competing at the next level!
Kenmore East
Gianna Core - Softball, Buffalo State University
Tyler Dzikowski - Football, Buffalo State University
Ethan Goodband - Baseball, SUNY Erie
Vondin Henderson - Tennis, Daemen University
Zachery Isbrandt - Baseball, SUNY Erie
MyQuan Jackson - Football, Buffalo State University
David Lang - Track, SUNY Geneseo
Jorja Smith - Cross Country & Track and Field, SUNY Brockport
Kenmore West:
Sophia Balsano - Basketball, SUNY Niagara
Aidan Bieron - Cross Country & Track and Field, Alfred University
Shona Boehmer - Track and Field, SUNY Fredonia
Landon Calvert - Golf, SUNY Delhi
Julia Fabiano - Soccer, Hilbert College
Jonathan Hodges - Cross Country & Track and Field, Alfred University
Samantha Horne -Softball, SUNY Potsdam
Emma Jones - Swimming, SUNY Geneseo
Reed Lesmeister - Baseball, Hilbert College
Hezekiah Mercado - Football, East Coast Prep
Tyler Mrozik - Bowling, SUNY Erie
Samantah Padilla - Volleyball, SUNY Erie
Shine Wunna - Lacrosse, Hilbert College
ATHLETIC AWARDS NIGHTS
Both Kenmore East and Kenmore West High Schools honored hundreds of student-athletes, coaches, and key contributors at the annual awards nights. Some of the highlights included:
267 Ken-Ton Scholar-Athletes
119 All-Western NY Scholar-Athletes
94 Character Counts Sportsmanship Award recipients
Senior athletes who earned multiple varsity letters throughout their careers
36 Athletes who lettered in three or more varsity sports as seniors, thereby earning ‘Triple Threat’ and Multi-Sport Superstar recognition
In addition, a total of 36 varsity programs between the two schools were recognized by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association as Scholar-Athlete Teams. Teams are eligible for this honor when at least 75% of their roster carries grade-point-averages of 90% or higher.
THE EASTIES
Geoff Brunger Awards for Perseverance
Jacob Kozerski
Brooke Kramer
James Dunnigan Athletic Awards
Owen McKinney
Barbara Field Scholarships
Celia Crawford
Tyler Dzikowski
The Lou Reuter Award
Emily Malek
Bryce Thomas
Marv Matteson Award of Excellence
Michael Bly
Elizabeth McGloin
Brett Banker Award
Gabriella Phifer
Charles Rogers Athlete of the Year Awards
David Lang
Jorja Smith
Hall of Fame Scholarships
Michael Bly
Janasia Diaz
David Lang
Dylan McDonald
THE WESTIES
Charles Kristich Awards for Accomplishments in Academics & Athletics
Emma Jones
Samantha Padilla
Nicholas V. Silvestri Awards for Perseverance & Courage
Sophia Balsano
Madeline Rice
Colleen Fatta Memorial Awards
Sophia McGuigan
Owen Van Dewater
Susan Falsone Scholarship Award
Shona Boehmer
Leroy "Bud" Pitkin Award
Nick Argenio
Brett Banker Award
Alex Grohman
Alan MacGamwell Athlete of the Year Awards
Aidan Bieron
Samantha Horne
Ken-Ton Athletic Hall of Fame Scholarships
Aidan Bieron
Samantha Horne
Reed Lesmeister
Samantha Padilla
NIAGARA FRONTIER LEAGUE AWARDS
On June 11th, the Niagara Frontier League recognized the Coach of the Year and Cornerstone Award recipients at its annual banquet. Our honorees were all very deserving of this recognition. Congratulations and special thanks to: Kenmore East Coach Leslie Simon and Kenmore West Coach Bob Howard. This year's Cornerstone Awards for Kenmore East and Kenmore West were presented to the district's Buildings and Grounds Department for their hard work and efforts to make our facilities great!
Athletic hall of fame
The HOF was created in 1994 to recognize the tremendous accomplishments of our athletes, coaches, teams and contributors. Ken-Ton has a long and storied history in athletics and this process gives us the opportunity to highlight the best of the best. The induction ceremonies are one of the highlights of the year.
KENMORE EAST ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME - CLASS OF '24
The Kenmore East Athletic Hall of Fame Selection Committee has announced its class of 2024 Inductees.
upcoming events - summer '24
Fall Registration opens on July 29th
Fall Sports Start Dates:
JV & Varsity Football - Monday, August 19th
Modified Football - Wednesday, August 21st
All Other Fall Sports - Monday, August 26th or later
All Athletic Placement Process (APP) information and paperwork can be found on the Athletics portion of the district website.