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Thorpe programs embrace challenge of new season

Jim Thorpe will rely on a blend of proven performers and developing talent this fall, as the Olympians continue to lay the groundwork for success in multiple sports.

VOLLEYBALL

Head coach: Rachel Oliver (1st year)

League: Colonial

Key losses: The Olympians graduated Brianna Snisky, Brooke Mitzen, and Mara Levins from last year’s 19-win team, which finished second in the league and qualified for districts.

Key returnees: Senior setter Maura Malaska, a four-year starter, has totaled 739 career assists and 63 service aces. Oliver said they’re leaning on her to lead both on and off the court. Seniors Abigail Kuhn and Avery Balliet are expected to contribute more at the varsity level, while juniors Remy Gorski and Kimora Seales-Griffith will also both play key roles. Oliver noted that Gorski is becoming a serious two-way threat, and called Seales-Griffith a powerhouse in the middle who is explosive, smart and hungry to improve.

Top newcomers: Sophomore outside hitter Lilly Outwater has impressed in offseason work.

Season outlook: Oliver, who was part of Marian’s 2003 state championship team, is still learning her roster but believes the program — now with a middle school feeder system — will be competitive in every match.

Quotable: “We know we’ve got work to do, but this group is coachable, committed, and ready to compete. We’re focused on laying the foundation for a strong future at Jim Thorpe, and we’re excited to see what we can accomplish this season.” — Jim Thorpe head coach Rachel Oliver

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Head coach: Marie Rosahac

League: Colonial

Key losses: Kate Newsted, Madison Freeby.

Key returnees: Junior Stacy Bos, a state qualifier, leads the team. Rosahac said she is very competitive, focused, and a strong finisher. Junior Sophie Durange also returns as a consistent top-five runner.

Top newcomers: Freshmen Kayleigh Halenar, Olivia Holland, and Cheyenne Louk will all contribute after dedicated summer workouts. Rosahac said they are talented, competitive, and push each other.

Season outlook: The Olympians look to improve on a 6-21-1 record. Building depth remains a challenge, but competitiveness is expected.

Quotable: “Our progress will mainly be determined by how well our freshmen are able to make the adjustment to the 5K high school race compared to the middle school course’s track that was about a mile shorter.” — Jim Thorpe head coach Marie Rosahac

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

Head coach: Marie Rosahac

League: Colonial

Key losses: Bowden Chicarelli, Evan Rosenbrook.

Key returnees: Senior Gabe Wirth aims to improve his district performance, while senior James Circhinelli has steadily developed since seventh grade. Rosahac said he is very committed to the training program.

Top newcomers: Freshmen Ethan Shaffer, who will also play soccer, and Jacob Sheckler, a former middle school track runner, are expected to contribute.

Season outlook: With just six runners, the Olympians are seeking more depth but hope to improve on last year’s 13-15 mark.

Quotable: “Our main goal at this point is to focus on keeping everyone healthy so we can have a chance to win some meets.” — Jim Thorpe head coach Marie Rosahac

GIRLS SOCCER

Head coach: Christian Bartulovich

League: Colonial

Key losses: Haylee Fischi, Ella Cook, Brinn Harwood.

Key returnees: Senior midfielder Makayla Eberly will lead a young squad. Bartulovich called her a leader by example who is motivated to help the team improve on last year’s one-win season. He added that she is fearless, a strong dribbler, and brings a physical style of play. Sophomore Isabella Roman adds confidence and a long shot, while classmate Ciara Lees is a playmaker with vision and a quick release.

Top newcomers: Freshman Payton Hassler plays fast with relentless drive. Sophomore goalie Giada Wise-Macchioni brings field hockey goaltending experience to the soccer pitch. Bartulovich said she is a goalie by nature, understands angles, and has the mindset to stay focused even after mistakes.

Season outlook: The Olympians aren’t measuring success in wins and losses, but in effort and progress. Bartulovich said they will play with energy from start to finish, stressing outworking opponents while focusing on morale, improvement and having fun.

Quotable: “Failure offers opportunity and once we trust in each other, progress will be the outcome.” — Jim Thorpe head coach Christian Bartulovich

BOYS SOCCER

Head coach: Michael Dudak

League: Colonial

Key losses: The Olympians graduated their top three goal scorers in Ehren Hassler, Noah Geiser, and Henry Snyder, along with defensive anchor Jack Sanwirja.

Key returnees: Captain Devon Frantz anchors the defense with Ian Walck, while captain Hayden Meckes is expected to be a leading scorer. Junior Kayden Spence and midfielders Conor Holland, Zac Grosse, and Connor Koch add offensive punch. Goalie Liam Off returns for his third season, while sophomores Colin Warren and Blaze Flyzik provide depth.

Top newcomers: Freshmen Ethan Schaffer, Maddox Day, and Steve Marotto are all competing for varsity minutes.

Season outlook: Jim Thorpe looks to build on last season’s 14 wins and defend its District 11 championship. The Olympians are aiming for a second straight state berth after earning their first-ever state win last year.

Quotable: “We have cleats to fill from last year, but this group has talent and enough experience to give us a chance at another great season.” — Jim Thorpe head coach Michael Dudak

GIRLS TENNIS

Head coach: Emilio Mercado

League: Colonial

Key losses: Chloe Tantala, Diamond Alvear.

Key returnees: Senior Keira Reese returns at No. 1 singles. Mercado called her a star on the court who hits with power and continues to improve. Junior Noelanie Sepulveda (No. 2 singles) hustles for every shot, while junior Anjali Chiulli (No. 3) is sharpening her backhand. Senior Lila DeJessa and junior Amanda Marttell form a doubles team, with De Jessa showing confidence at the net and Marttell bringing relentless energy and a strong mental game.

Top newcomers: Sophomore Hanna Wirth and freshman Ella Ramey bring powerful shots and strong net play.

Season outlook: The Olympians look to improve on a 6-10 record. Reese is aiming for districts in singles, while the team hopes to qualify collectively. Mercado said the group has put in the work over the summer and is ready to show improvement.

Quotable: “We know the Colonial League brings strong competition, but I’ve seen how hard our girls have been working, I’m confident they’ll put up a great fight.” — Jim Thorpe head coach Emilio Mercado

Conor Holland, Jim Thorpe Boys Soccer
Maura Malaska, Jim Thorpe Volleyball
Ian Walck, Jim Thorpe Boys Soccer
Stacy Bos, Jim Thorpe Cross Country
Keira Reese, Jim Thorpe Girls Tennis