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The Ritan

Volume Eighty-One. Number One. Tuesday, December 22, 2009

A Student Publication of
Saint Rita of Casica High School
7740 South Western Avenue
PREP BOWL
CHAMPS!
Chicago, Illinois 60620

In This Issue
Page 2
Annual Food Drive helps many in need.

Photo by Mr. Josh Blaszak

Page 3
A in-depth look at new Rita faculty.

Page 4
Fans flock to purchase Call of Duty.

Page 5
Twenty-seven named State Scholars.

Page 6
Sophomore Football wins CCL title.

Page 7
Basketball season off to a solid start.

Photo by Mr. Josh Blaszak


THE VARSITY MUSTANG Football team celebrates their 34-20 victory over Simeon at Soldier Field in the 76th Annual Chicago Prep Bowl.
This was the second time in three years the Mustangs captured the Prep Bowl Championship. Their overall record this season was 11-3.

Rita’s Varsity Mustang Football team de-


feated Chicago’s Public League Champion
win over Mt. Carmel 54-16.
“I am extremely proud of all of our play-
SPECIAL 2009 AWARDS
Simeon 34-20 on Friday, November 27th to ers and coaches who were a part of this Tim Wojtecki Award
Photo courtesy Institutional Advancement win the city’s 76th Annual Prep Bowl. This year’s successes,” said Kuska.
Tommy Hitz & Joe Maes
is the sixth Prep Bowl Championship the “The unity of the team and their desire
Mustangs have captured in Rita history. to play for St. Rita is what ultimately made Wayne Tomas Award
Junior running back Jahwon Akui was this season successful. As always it was a Jahwon Akui
named the Prep Bowl MVP following his lot of dedication and hard work by all of Cronin Award
four touchdowns. This included an 85-yard those involved that allowed us to compete
Merry Christmas opening kickoff return. Akui had a total of at the high level in which we did and to be
Jahwon Akui
148 rushing yards on 29 carries. able to win a championship,” he said. Ray Reiche Award
and “We’re really blessed as a team to have Kuska himself reached a milestone of his Kevin Yerkes
been able to win a championship like this,” own during this, his 12th season as Head Fr. William Thomas Award
A Happy New Year said Akui. Coach. The Mustangs’ 35-14 victory over
Tim Ladd & Jake O’Dea
Senior quarterback Rob Gallik was also local Chicago Catholic League rival Br.
a key player in the Prep Bowl victory going Rice on September 11th gave Kuska’s his Offensive Most Valuable Player
10-of-14 passing, 119 yards, and scoring a 100th win. He was also named the “2009 Rob Gallik
The Ritan Newspaper Staff touchdown. Tom Lemming Coach of the Year.” Defensive Most Valuable Player
wishes everyone a very “I think winning the Prep Bowl was a It is evident that the Mustangs’ recent
Bruce Gaston
Merry Christmas and a great statement about the character and Prep Bowl victory only added to the pride
Most Improved Player
pride that this team has in St. Rita,” said Kuska has in being the Head Coach of the
Happy New Year. We hope Head Coach Todd Kuska ’90. players at Rita as he said, “Watching the Dan Connolly
the students, faculty, and “Having the opportunity to practice on team sing the fight song to the fans at Sol- Kevin Kehoe Award
Thanksgiving and play a championship dier Field was one of the best moments for
staff at Rita have a relaxing, game in week 14 is something that only a me as a coach this year. To see the team
Joe Campagna
safe, and healthy break. select few teams at St. Rita have ever done, care so much about celebrating their Cham- Ed Duffy Award
and it will always be in the thoughts of all pionship with the families and fans of St. Ron McNamara
of the members of this year’s team. They Rita really makes me realize how important Andy Smialek Award
Let us also remember that were given the chance to walk off the field the community of St. Rita is to all of our
Chris Simms & Kyle Jachim
Jesus is the reason for the winning their last football game of the year players.”
and for some of them the last football game
season as we spend time of their career, and they were able to get it
with our loved ones. done,” he said.
Rita’s Prep Bowl Championship wrapped
up a successful season of football for the
Complete 2009 Football Coverage
Get ready for a great 2010! Mustangs. Overall the team’s record was
11-3 for the season, including a historic Located on Back Page
Page 2 December 22, 2009
NEWS
Student Government setting tone for year
By Dan Collins
the most successful in recent years.
Senior Writer
In the week leading up to Thanksgiving
Rita’s Student Government Officers Day, collections taken from the student
for the 2009-2010 academic year started body, faculty, and staff of Rita brought in
things off right with a spirit filled fantastic 7,983 non-perishable items. This more
Homecoming Week. than doubled the amount of food collected
“This year’s officers came into the year last year at Rita.
wanting to set the bar high for school spirit. AFTER SORTING AND packing the
The group’s attitude and leadership has re- donations, the Senior Class Officers were
ally helped to do that,” said Junior Class commissioned at the all-school Thanksgiv-
Moderator Mr. Josh Blaszak. ing Mass to go out and deliver the items
The theme for this Homecoming Week collected by the St. Rita Family. The food
2009 was “Veni, Vidi, Vici,” which was items were delivered to the St. Basil/Visi-
taken from Julius Cesar meaning “I came, tation, St. Clare of Montefalco, and St. Rita
I saw, I conquered.” of Cascia Food Pantries. Angel’s Touch,
Homecoming Week was once again fun- another non-profit organization that is run
filled will many events to get as many stu- Photo by Mr. Zach Blaszak by Rita staff member Pat Mitchell also
dents involved as possible. SENIOR CLASS STUDENT Government Officers set out to deliver the 7,983 food benefited from the donations.
THE FRESHMAN CLASS kicked the items that were collected by the St. Rita Family during the Annual Thanksgiving Food The Student Government currently looks
week off with the Annual Homecoming Drive. From left to right: Marty Kordas Tim Ladd, Student Government Vice Presi- to continue many traditions in the Spring
Decoration Contest. They covered the ath- dent Joe Campagna, Student Government President Mike Basic, Tom Murphy, Tom Kel- while adding several new activities.
letic wing from top to bottom with all kinds ly, and Bro. Gary Hresil, O.S.A. ’86, Director of Activities and Senior Class Moderator. The Government is gearing up for the
of decorations cheering on everything Rita. Annual Blood Drive and Junior and Se-
The repeat winner of this year’s contest Senior Tom Murphy, captain of the stu- the Mustang Olympic went very well,” nior Proms, while the Freshmen are getting
was no surprise to some, Biology teacher dent team, said, “The refs [seniors Brendan said Student Government President senior ready to host their Hawaiian Pool Night.
Mrs. Maureen Pangrazio and her class. Garrett and Luke Turner] blew the game on Mike Basic. All levels are looking into the creating
The first school-wide event held was new purpose. We should have won that game.” The week concluded with a win for the some additional class events to build great-
this year; a students vs. faculty volleyball A returning favorite was the Annual Mustang Football team over Fenwick and er unity amongst their members.
game. Members of the Varsity Mustang Dodgeball Tournament consisting of teams the Homecoming Dance. Queen of Peace The Freshman Student Government of-
Volleyball team dominated at they took from all levels and the faculty. With balls senior and Rita Cheerleader Missy Smi- ficers are especially excited to get started
on various members of the faculty who flying everywhere, striking victims on and alek was crowned Rita’s 2009 Homecom- as they were only recently inducted.
couldn’t keep up with the reigning Chicago off the court, victory came yet again for the ing Queen. “Missy more than deserved the “Our freshman class seems really moti-
Catholic League Champions. seniors. “It was a fun tournament to offici- honor of Homecoming Queen,” said Basic, vated as they are already so involved in dif-
Next up was the Annual Students vs. ate,” said senior Dan Connolly. who was also Missy’s escort. ferent areas of our school. I’m really ex-
Faculty Flag Football Game. This was a SENIORS CONTINUED TO triumph While Homecoming Week was huge for cited to see them bring their enthusiasm to
game that will go down in Homecoming during the Mustang Olympics. With stands the Student Government during the first Student Government and collaborate with
Week history, as an alleged blown class by filled with a sea of red shirts, each class semester, that was not all they were busy the upperclassmen to work on behalf of the
the referees left the faculty celebrating a gave it their all, however, they didn’t have with. The Annual Thanksgiving Food entire student body,” said Freshman Class
thrilling win. what it took to beat the seniors. “I think Drive was held and turned out to be one of Moderator Mrs. Vicki Blaszak.

Rita setting for research Rita band presents


By David Schrader
Senior Editor
a catholic education influence a
teen’s education.
State University, as he teaches
education and writing classes.
Sounds of the Season
Mr. Burke is going to corner The research Mr. Burke is com- By Al Smith II
The soon-to-be Dr. Kevin this very niche market. piling at Rita takes place Tuesday Senior Writer
Burke is the 29 year old student Mr. Burke grew up on the through Thursday. On Mondays,
that has been roaming Rita’s halls Southside with many siblings and he supervises student teachers Rita’s band spread holiday cheer on the evening of December
for the past few months. attended Marist High School. from Michigan State who are 9th as they presented their Annual Christmas Concert “Sounds of
Other than being a new target AFTER HIGH SCHOOL Mr. undergoing their practicum in the Season”. A great crowd was entertained by performances from
for the good-natured raillery of Burke attended Boston College the Chicago Public Schools. On the Saxophone Quartet, Jazz Band, Symphonic Band, and the Rita-
the students, his main goal for be- where he graduated with a degree Fridays, Mr. Burke teaches a nettes. Parents, students, and the general public showed their sup-
ing in the classrooms is gathering in English. For a couple years he Master’s degree course to those port of the music program with loud cheers and applause throughout
information for his dissertation then taught high school English student teachers. the evening.
toward a PhD in Education. and Theology before going to the Looking towards the future, THE JAZZ BAND which treated attendees at the December St.
Very little research has been University of Notre Dame to re- Mr. Burke is already applying for Rita Novena Mass on December 3rd to a Concert preview, follow-
done on Catholic education, par- ceive a Master’s degree in Edu- positions that start in September. ing in the evening with some upbeat interpretations of classic holi-
ticularly in secondary schools cation. He is looking toward becom- day songs, including “Frosty the Snowman” and “Rockin’ Around
and those that are single gender Mr. Burke completed yet an- ing an education professor at a the Christmas Tree.”
schools. other Master’s degree back at university. Such universities he The Jazz Band has a full bill for the second semester, as they are
More specifically, there has Boston College, while teaching is looking into include: Butler slated to perform at the Annual Valentine Dinner Dance, a major St.
been little research found on how some courses in writing. University, Providence College, Rita fundraiser, the Mothers’ Club Fashion Show, and at local gram-
the masculinity of an all-boys Now Mr. Burke is working to Roosevelt University, the Uni- mar schools during “Catholic Schools Week.”
academy and the spirituality of receive his PhD from Michigan versity of Illinois – Chicago, and
William and Mary Col-
lege.
WHILE HE IS a man
that simply wished to
teach for the rest of his
life, Mr. Burke isn’t all
academia though. Just
a couple months ago he
ran the Chicago Mara-
thon, his fourteenth,
while raising money to
benefit The Chicago Po-
lice Memorial Fund.
Mr. Burke understands
that it isn’t normal for a
man to sit-in on classes
while following a stu-
dent around, and he is Photo by Mr. Josh Blaszak
thankful everyone has RITA’s JAZZ BAND entertains the crowd at their “Sounds of the
Photo by Mr. Josh Blaszak Season” Christmas Concert on December 9th. Left to right: junior
included him in the St.
MR. KEVIN BURKE (right) interacts with senior Ryan Gallagher. Mr. Burke is Timothy Doran, junior Maxx Akel, junior Ronald Bigeck, senior Pat
spending time at Rita this year collecting research for his doctoral study. Rita Family.
Leonard, junior Coty Perreira, and sophomore Kevin Zawaski.
December 22, 2009 Page 3
FACULTY PROFILES
A closer look at new faculty at Rita
By Brad Dorng, Austin Kingsley, and
Jake LePretre aerobics class at LA Fitness. She became a cer- In addition to joining the Rita faculty, Fr. Ms. Albarran is curious to see how far her and
Sophomore and Freshmen Writers tified instructor about 8 months ago. Rich also now lives with Augustinian Friars in her students can go while studying Spanish.
Mrs. Curran feels as if everyone at Rita is her the St. Rita Monastery as he discerns joining the Mrs. Kathy Byrne
This past semester the Rita faculty and staff was extended family. She likes and respects her col- Augustinian order. Mrs. Kathy Byrne is Rita’s new Biology and
joined by many new faces. Here is a closer look leagues, and she enjoys attending athletic events Fr. Rich has one brother who is a Chicago Earth Science teacher. Originally from Queen
at some of those new Rita Family members. and running into students and past graduates in Police officer and his parents live happily in of Martyrs Parish,
Mrs. Mary Misiora the community. Oak Lawn. Mrs. Byrne was a
Many current Rita students may have alumni This year, she looks forward to preparing the Fr. Rich loves spending time with his two part-time teacher
fathers, brothers, or other relatives that were juniors for the ACT as she has been teaching nieces and nephew, along with traveling. Other at Mother McAu-
taught by Mr. Jim prep courses at night for several years now. hobbies of his include singing, playing the gui- ley High School for
Misiora. Mr. Mi- Ms. Kathleen O’Neill tar, and music in general. In fact, Fr. Rich is twenty-seven years
siora was a history Ms. Kathleen O’Neill is a new addition to currently in the process of forming a choir at prior to teaching at
teacher and varsity The Center for Campus Ministry at Rita who Rita. Rita.
hockey coach for has been an energet- In the past few weeks, Fr. Rich has been Mrs. Byrne is a
many years until ic addition to Rita. meeting with many students to create Rita’s graduate of Mother
he died suddenly in Ms. O’Neill grew choir that will enhance the singing at school McAuley. She then attended St. Teresa’s in
December of 2001. up as an only child liturgies. Winona, Minnesota.
Now, Rita stu- outside of New Fr. Rich says what he likes most about Rita Following college Mrs. Byrne married Tom,
dents are encoun- York City, in Larch- so far is the great community and how everyone a 1977 Rita graduate, and later had five boys.
tering another Misiora in the classroom. Mr. mont, NY, where acts as they are, without putting up an fronts. Some of her boys have already graduated from
Misiora’s wife, Mary, is currently teaching The- she attended both “Students take care of each other, and even Rita, while one is here now and another one will
ology I and History of Cinema at Rita. Mrs. middle school and when there are disagreements, they don’t hold be attending Rita in the future.
Misiora is also the new moderator of the school high school at Ur- grudges; as a community, we forgive and for- When asked why she wanted to teach at Rita
yearbook, The Cascian. suline School. get,” he said. Mrs. Byrne replied, “It was my calling, after so
Mrs. Misiora taught elementary school chil- She went on to attend Villanova University Ms. Stephanie Saul many years of dedication to St. Rita, I knew I
dren for 13 years and then became a principal in Pennsylvania, which like Rita is an Augustin- Ms. Stephanie Saul from Naperville is Rita’s had to come and teach here.”
in Lyons for 10 years. She went on to become ian educational institution. At Villanova, Ms. French Teacher. Ms. Saul graduated from Na- Mrs. Byrne so far has loved her time at Rita,
principal at Most Holy Redeemer where she re- O’Neill studied and majored in both psychol- perville North High and when asked about the atmosphere she said,
mained for five years. ogy and theology and minored in business. School where she “All of the people here are so welcoming, and
After retiring from Most Holy Redeemer and Ms. O’Neill was active in Liturgical Ministry was involved in the are willing to give a helping hand.”
taking a year off, Mrs. Misiora’s heart led her to at Villanova. She served as a Eucharistic Min- French Club and “The students are so much fun to teach and
Rita. This is actually her third year at Rita, for ister for two years, and then became a part of Cross Country. I am so happy I am able to be in the classroom
the past two years, she has been filling in as a the Liturgical Council. Ms. O’Neill also went After high school and a part of this big loving family,” she said.
long-term substitute. on various service trips throughout college to Ms. Saul went on Mr. Thomas Conlon
Mrs. Misiora is the oldest of four children Louisiana, Florida, and Guatemala. to attend Bowling Students who are in or pass by room 109 first
and loves her cat. She enjoys being able to She was also part of Villanova’s Scholastic Green State Uni- period are familiar with another new face at
teach where her husband taught, and likes be- Bowl team. Ms. O’Neill was a research assis- versity in Ohio, but Rita. That face is Mr. Thomas Conlon.
ing about to teach all boys and work with the tant for the psychology department and helped she wanted to learn more about the French lan- Mr. Thomas Conlon is a part-time Theology
Rita faculty. conduct experiments on aggression and on per- guage and culture, so she then studied in Paris III teacher at Rita this year.
When not teaching, she enjoys scrapbooking, sonality theory. and Tours, France. Mrs. Maureen McWilliams
making cards, cooking, and reading by the wa- Her heavy involvement in campus ministry Prior to teaching at Rita, Ms. Saul taught Mrs. Maureen McWilliams is also a new face
ter at her second home in Indiana. in both high school and college is part of the French in the U.S. and English in France. that has been seen around Rita since this sum-
Mr. Kieran Kellam reason Ms. O’Neill is with the Rita community When asked why she wanted to teach French mer. Mrs. McWilliams is the Administrative
Mr. Kieran Kellam, a new English I and U.S. this year. Ms. Saul replied “When I was fourteen, I told Assistant to the Chief Financial Officer. She
History teacher, is a 1998 graduate of Rita. Ms. O’Neill is an Augustinian Volunteer my parents that I wanted to be a French teacher.” handles student tuition.
He has been rec- who is committing to serving in the Chicago Her parents sent her to France with her French Mr. Tom Ramsden
ognizable to most area for one year. Like her many predecessors, teacher and continued to support her goal until Mr. Tom Ramsden recently joined the Rita
students since last Ms. O’Neill found the numerous opportunities she achieved this dream. staff as the Director of Institutional Advance-
Spring when he re- available for her to serve others while working Outside of the classroom Ms. Saul enjoys ment.
turned to Rita as a at Rita to be the perfect fit for her year. practicing yoga, reading, the arts and traveling. As the new Director of Institutional Advance-
student teacher. While in The Campus Ministry Center, Ms. About her time at Rita Ms. Saul said, “I am ment, Mr. Ramsden oversees all operations that
Besides teaching, O’Neill assists with the Knights of Augustine, elated to be here. The students and faculty are take place within the Office of Institutional
Mr. Kellam was the the R.O.S.E. Hours Service Program, Kairos all second to none.” Advancement, including alumni and public re-
coach of the fresh- Retreats, Rita liturgies, and is a mentor to the Ms. Saul looks forward to what this year has lations, Rita’s Annual Appeal, and graphic and
man soccer team. freshman class amongst other responsibilities. in store for her. Ms. Saul hopes to plan a trip to media design.
So far he likes working with the students and Outside of school Ms. O’Neill likes to spend France so her students can experience what they In his role, Mr. Ramsden plays a vital role in
faculty. He said, “I like the fact that we are very time drawing, painting, and cooking. are studying. continuing the success and operation of Rita for
focused on God, St. Rita, and St. Augustine. Ms. O’Neill said of her time at Rita thus far, Ms. Marisa Albrarran many years to come.
That is a benefit that most people don’t have and “I love the sense of Augustinian community that Ms. Marisa Albarran is one of Rita’s Spanish Mr. Ramsden is father of three and comes to
that we capitalize on.” exists at St. Rita. I truly feel at home here.” teachers. Growing up on the Southside of Chi- us having spent time working most recently at
Married for the past three year, Mr. Kellam Fr. Rich Young cago, Ms. Albarran was a member of the Span- St. Ignatius College Prep.
also has many interests outside of Rita. He en- “Being here at Rita every day is always a new ish club, French Club, and Student Council dur- Mr. Ernie Mrozek
joys soccer, fishing, golf, and researching his experience. I am hoping to get guys excited ing her time at Curie Mr. Ernie Mrozek, a 1971 Rita graduate, has
family history. about their faith.” High School. been named Rita’s new Vice President. Mr.
Mrs. Katie Curran These words come She attended Mrozek, who has been a member of Rita’s
Mrs. Katie Curran returned to the Mathemat- from Rita’s Theol- Trinity Christian Board of Directors for the past three years, also
ics faculty at Rita earlier this year to teach ju- ogy I and II teacher, College, where she took over as the Chairman of the Board on July
niors Algebra II. Fr. Rich Young. majored in Spanish 1st.
Mrs. Curran is Preferably known Education. Upon graduating from Rita, Mr. Mrozek
originally from St. as Fr. Rich, he is a When not in the went on to attend the University of Illinois at
Mary Star of the 1982 graduate of classroom Ms. Al- Urbana-Champaign where he received a BS in
Sea Parish and re- Rita. Following his barran enjoys going Accounting in 1976.
ceived her degree time as a Rita stu- bowling with friends, seeing movies, attending For 12 years Mr. Mrozek worked at Arthur
from Northern Il- dent, Fr. Rich went on to attend Quincy Univer- concerts, and practicing Jujitsu. Andersen before he moved on to The Service-
linois University sity, where he graduated after only three years. Although this is her first teaching position, Master Company, a Fortune 500 company with
in Education and After college Fr. Rich furthered his education Ms. Albarran feels a strong connection with the annual revenues of over $3 billion.
Mathematics. by receiving his Master of Divinity degree from pride and tradition given off by all the students Mr. Mrozek remained at ServiceMaster for
She began teaching third graders, but real- St. Thomas Theological Seminary in Denver, and faculty at Rita. over 20 years and was the President and Chief
ized she would like to teach older students and Colorado. When asked what teaching Spanish meant to Operating Officer prior to his retirement over a
Mathematics exclusively, so she joined the Rita Fr. Rich worked with people with disabilities her she replied, “It is such an important language year ago.
faculty in 2001. in various work settings, in jail ministry, and and subject to study, and although the rules of Mr. Mrozek has been married for 35 years to
In 2005 Mrs. Curran left Rita to start a fam- with the Native American and Hispanic com- the language are important it is vital to know his wife Diane and has two children, Maggie 26
ily. She now has three children: Taylor who is munities in Arizona and New Mexico. He has how to speak and understand the language.” and Matt 17.
4, Brendan who is 3, and Kristen who is 1. also worked at DePaul University, teaching in Ms. Albarran loves teaching at Rita, and the Mr. Mrozek is offering his services Pro Bono
She has now returned to teach part-time. “It the Religious Studies Department. everyday small things like the freshmen saying and will oversee long-term planning, school
feels like I never left,” she said. Before joining Rita’s faculty, Fr. Rich was “swoosh” and all the school reciting the prayer. finances, the Office of Institutional Advance-
Outside of Rita, Mrs. Curran spends most of a diocesan priest working at St. Ita Parish, a “It really makes me feel like I am teaching in ment, and the Admissions Office. He will also
her time with her family, but also teaches some multi-cultural parish, for about 5 years. the right place,” she said. be a mentor to the students.
Page 4 December 22, 2009
STUDENT VIEWS
Editorial Them Crooked Vultures group
Rock Band killing
the Music Industry
represents the rebirth of rock
The influx of music games recently has been both- By David Schrader three together brought all of their musical talents and com-
ering me. As I sit there, pounding away on plastic Senior Editor bined it into an unforgettable experience. Each musician
pads as colorful “notes” sprawled towards me, I had to brought along with him his own style of music.
wonder something. Do these games, Rock Band and Them Crooked Vultures is a super group comprised of However, since Homme is the lead singer and guitarist,
Guitar Hero, help give you the initial push to actually Josh Homme as the guitarist/vocalist from Queens of the Them Crooked Vultures resembles Queens of the Stone
pick up a real instrument and start playing? Or do they Stone Age, Dave Grohl as drummer from Nirvana and Foo Age the most. His sphere of influence has been pushed
detract, making you believe the plastic toy you have is Fighters, and John Paul Jones as the bassist from Led Zep- to the foreground, which is by no means a bad thing. It
a good enough substitute for a real instrument? pelin. Now, most bands comprised of this much talent are sounds like a new CD for Queen of the Stone Age instead
The reason I thought about this is because of the gui- usually utter trash. of an entirely new band. So if you were looking for a re-
tar. Currently, five buttons comprise of all the range Take note of the Travelling Wilburys. This band com- vitalization of Zeppelin, you are out of luck.
of notes in a song. The standard guitar has six strings prised of George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, Jeff The group’s album also titled Them Crooked Vultures
and twenty-two frets. That’s 132 notes, or 127 more Lynne, and Roy Orbison. The band consisted of great mu- has a very slow, methodical theme to it. Only two songs
notes than can be played on a guitar hero guitar (if my sicians, but can anyone think of a song created by them. (Mind Eraser (No Chaser) and Dead End Friends) have a
basic arithmetic is correct). FOR THAT REASON, excitement for any band con- fast tempo to them.
WHAT DOES THAT have to do with the price of sisting of three musicians from, arguably, three of the THE REST ARE slowed up and have a very blues feel
tea in China, other than the fact that all this plastic greatest bands to them. The song, or battleship as the band likes to refer
garbage is created there? Nothing. However, it does in our time, to the long ones as, Warsaw or the First Breath You Take
mean that there is little skill in mastering a music game and Nirvana, After You Give Up does not even try to sound like a rock
guitar. That was the point, as people were supposed to tends to dwin- song. It’s a deliberate attempt to mimic what Miles Davis
be able to feel like they were playing a real instrument dle. The egos would sound like if he had an electric guitar instead of a
while never actually accomplishing a single thing. in these bands trumpet.
Is this a bad thing? Yes, yes it is. For the children usually clash That is about all that can be said about this group. The
who only know this game, a real guitar appears to be as their mem- average song is about four minutes long, with three of them
an unholy mess that’s about as easy to play as Connect bers can’t being near seven minutes. There are thirteen of them, and
4 when somebody has cut off your hands. handle shar- each one of is great.
My little cousin got a guitar for his birthday. After ing the spot- For those who do not want to purchase or listen to the
many sessions with his band The No No No’s (for light. entire album, at least download two songs, New Fang and
which I created the name and was guest drummer), he Thankfully, Mind Eraser (No Chaser). You would be doing yourself
thought he was ready and was excited to delve into the that is not the a disservice not to. I give Them Crooked Vultures, per-
experience that only music can give someone. case. The formed by Them Crooked Vultures, 5 out of 5.
AFTER TWO MONTHS of going to weekly les-

Fans flock to buy long awaited


sons, practicing, and probably playing Stairway to
Heaven ad nauseam, my cousin quit and went back to
Guitar Hero: World Tour. He then kick-started a US
tour and never looked back.
What I’m driving at is this, without music games,
he wouldn’t have wanted to play a guitar so much.
However, it’s because of the game that he quit without
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2
so much as a second thought. Joseph Heller couldn’t
have thought of a better example of a Catch-22. By Michael Lorimer
The plastic toy guitar offers you nothing to prepare Freshman Writer
for a real instrument. The drums, on the other hand,
are a different story. While hitting one sounds like hit-
ting an empty milk jug with a stick (I like to think the Millions of people across the world
sounds it makes is tawk), the basics of the drums are eagerly anticipated the long awaited
there. You still get the timing down for the foot pedal release of Call of Duty: Modern War-
and you still develop rhythm. So, again, you learn the fare 2 outside the thousands of stores
very basics of drumming. that had the game in stock and ready
Music games are the only time where I can actually to sell.
feel the time I have been wasting. I asked a friend of The game, Call of Duty: Modern
mine who is a musician if people who become profi- warfare 2, or sometimes called CoD6
cient at music games are really no-talent hacks. He (kaHd six) for short, was first an-
said yes. That about sums up my feelings too. nounced on February 11, 2009 as a
sequel for the very popular 2008 title,
Please note, the editorial is a written view of one St. Rita Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, and
High School student. It does not necessarily reflect the is the sixth release in the Call of Duty
views of others at St. Rita or the school as an institution. series (after Call of Duty: World at
War.)
CoD6 has many features such as satisfied with how the game turned fun playing this game with our fellow
The Ritan is a publication of the students of St. Rita breathtaking High-Definition graph- out. Since its releases, after school Ritamen and can’t wait to see what
of Cascia High School, 7740 S. Western Ave., Chicago ics, an engaging storyline, and many on Wednesdays, the video game club will happen in the future of gaming.”
IL 60620. Phone: 773-925-6600 ext. 6668. Letters new multiplayer maps and weapons gets together and engages in battles Mrs. Marilyn Shannon, the Video
to the editors can be dropped off at the Mel Schreier that weren’t available in past Call of against each other in CoD6’s multi- Game Club’s moderator, said with a
Ritan Office located in the academic wing on the Duty games. player. smile on her face, “It’s a great addi-
northwest end of the second floor, submitted via email THE VIDEO GAME Club at Rita Juniors Matt Hiatt and Mike Brac- tion to our current game library here
to jblaszak@stritahs.com or given to Mr. Josh Blaszak recently added this game to their cur- kee, both members of the Video Game at St. Rita.”
in the Office of Institutional Advancement. rent library and couldn’t be more Club, said, “We really do have a lot of SHE WENT ON to say, “It’s both
amazing and hilarious how engrossed
Senior Editor: David Schrader within the game the students become.
Technology has come a far way and it
Staff Writers: Dan Collins, Brad Dorng, Sean Gerich, boggles my mind as to what will come
Cesar Guzman, Jake LePretre, Austin Kingsley, Charlie out next!”
Murphy, Sean Nolan, Bobby Raehl, Craig Sabath, Al Kevin Goosherst, a Rita freshman
Smith II, and Alex Summerfelt student who pre-ordered his copy and
now owns the game said, “The game
Layout: Matthew Dunson, Jake LePretre, Austin brings awesomeness to life with great
Kingsley, Ed Rowland, and David Schrader campaign levels, a new multiplayer
system, and Special Ops, which is a
Photographers: Herbie Johnson and Oscar Moscaro great new game mode. I love it.”
Sales of the game are expected to
Artists: Matt Gooseherst reamin steady, if not increase as de-
mand gets higher, until the release of
Moderator: Mr. Josh Blaszak the next game in the series.
December 22, 2009 Page 5
NEWS
Twenty-seven named Illinois State Scholars
By Al Smith II
Senior Writer

The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) announced


its recognition of 19,345 high school students as “2010 Illinois State
Scholars.” The students hail from 752 schools from all across the
State of Illinois.
Rita’s Class of 2010 has 27 Illinois State Scholars out of a total
of 168 senior students. Therefore, 16% of the students in the senior
class are Illinois State Scholars.
Illinois State Scholar winners rank in the top ten percent of high
school seniors. Selection is based on SAT, ACT and/or Prairie State
Achievement Exam scores, and/or class rank at the end of the junior
year.
“EXCELLENT HIGH SCHOOL grades are tremendously im-
portant for laying the groundwork for future college success,” said
ISAC Executive Director Andrew Davis. “Illinois State Scholars are
the best and the brightest in our state’s high schools, and we salute
them, their families and their teachers on this achievement.”
The following students of Rita’s Class of 2010 were honored
with this special recognition: Austin Bilotto, Terrence Brennan, Jo-
seph Cairo, Daniel Dillon, Robert Gallik, Ronald Garcia, Matthew
Goosherst, Roberto Hernadez, John Howard, Joseph Jasas, Thomas
Kelly, Joseph Loconte, Mike Lopez, Matthew McGowan, William
McGrenera, Zachary Moore, Matthew Murawski, Bryan Przepiora,
David Schrader, John Sheedy, Kyle Sheehan, Christopher Simms, Photo by Mr. Josh Blaszak
John Starcevich, Kyle Stearns, Thomas Sujack, Benjamin Velazquez, RITA’S CLASS OF 2010 has 27 Illinois State Scholars, 16% of the class. Illinois State Scholar winners rank in the
top ten percent of high school seniors. This year’s honorees stand with Principal Mrs. Sally Deenihan.
and Kevin Yerkes.

Cultural Exchange established with Spain


By Cesar Guzman It was a culture-filled three weeks, as will be in the first weeks in June as the eta student Alvaro Izquierdo, who stayed
Freshman Writer the Spanish students and their hosts took Rita students will travel to Spain and stay with Pat Boline and his family. “We had
many excursions around the city and in- with the families of those students that had a great time learning English.”
Rita continued a recently formed tra- volved them in their day-to-day activities were hosted in Chicago. This opportunity The Rita administration and Mrs. Jodi
dition this year by welcoming seven stu- as Rita students. will allow for Rita’s young men to learn McLawhorn, Director of the International
dents and a faculty member from Colegio The students were introduced to the first hand about the culture that is present Exchange Program, are working hard for
Urdaneta located in Bilbao, a city in the American culture as they went to the Fed- in Spain. further participation with countries all over
Basque Country of Spain to Chicago and eral Reserve and learned about politics and “WE LIVED AN unforgettable experi- the world in order to bring many cultures
into the St. Rita Family. the government at City Hall. ence that we will never forget,” said Urdan- in the Rita community.
The visitors were part of Rita’s third On another occasion
installment of the International Exchange they traveled to the Willis
Program, which previously conducted ex- Towner (formally known
changes with Germany and Australia. as the Sears Tower),
COLEGIO URDANETA LIKE Rita is Navy Pier, the Chicago
also an all-boy Augustinian school. They History Museum, and to
first heard about Rita’s International Ex- Millennium Park, giving
change Program through last year’s ex- them a taste of the Chi-
change school St. Augustine’s College cago lifestyle.
located in Sydney, Australia. Once con- The Spanish students
tact was made between Rita and Urdaneta also spent several days
plans were underway. in class at Rita, attended
In September seven Rita men, including Rita’s 2009 Homecom-
sophomores Albert Alfano, Kal Nastek, ing Week game, dance,
Billy Pink, junior Dan Foley, and seniors and other festivities, and Photo by Mr. Josh Blaszak
Pat Boline, Christian Chavez, and Kevin also took part in addi- Left to right: Colegio Urdaneta students Alvaro Izquierdo, Santi Marquiegui Azuara, Jamie Garcia, Manu
Suarez, Diego Bilbao, Ignacio Herera, and Pablo Ibanez. They spent two weeks immersed in the American
Yerkes, each hosted an exchange student tional events with their culture and are joined by Rita students sophomore Albert Alfano, senior Christian Chavez, junior Dan Foley,
inviting them to stay at their homes with host families. sophomores Kal Nastek, Billy Pink, senior Pat Boline, and Kevin Yerkes along with Principal Mrs. Sally Deeni-
their families for two weeks. The return exchange han, President Fr. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A. ’83, and Colegio Urdaneta faculty member Mr. Aitor Eguino.

Special
dedication
ceremony
held for
Petkus Labs Photo by Mr. Josh Blaszak
RITA’S ADMINISTRATION IS joined by Mr. Don Petkus ’51 and Mrs. Nancy Petkus and students during the recent dedica-
tion of the Petkus Laboratories. Back row left to right: St. Rita Vice President Mr. Ernie Mrozek ’71, Physics teacher Mr.
Don Krystof, Mrs. Nancy Petkus, Principal Mrs. Sally Deenihan, Mr. Don Petkus ’58, Chemistry teacher Mrs. Susan Krystof,
and President Fr. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A. ’83. Front row left to right: junior Ryan McGowan, seniors Kevin Yerkes, Jaime
Viramontes, Kevin Handler, Dan Dillon, and junior Bob Gallagher.
Page 6 December 22, 2009
FALL SPORTS RECAP
Sophomore Football wins sixth consecutive CCL title
By Bobby Raehl
the CCL title, giving Head Coach Brian
Sophomore Writer
O’Sullivan his sixth consecutive title with
SOPHOMORE FOOTBALL the sophomores.
On a cold October afternoon last year, “Despite numerous personal losses from
Rita’s then freshmen teamed walked away last year’s freshman team, they came to-
with their perfect season and Chicago gether and formed a very good team,” said
Catholic League title, ruined, losing 27-6 Defensive Coordinator Coach Brendan
to Br. Rice. Coughlin. “Our number one goal is to pre-
This year things changed for the Soph- pare our players for the varsity level.”
omore Mustang Football team. A strong Key players included: quarterback Chris
running game and an unstoppable defense Stoeberl, running back Russell Williams
led to an amazing undefeated Champion- and Sean Esposito, receivers T.J. Verdun
ship year for the sophomores. and Kenneth Golladay, fullback Chris
Led by captains Nick Dachota, Brendan Ward, and a strong offensive line Mario
Duffy, Charles Elmore, and Mario LoV- LoVerde, Kyle Kavalauskas, Jake Gold-
erde, the Mustangs started out hot and ing, Ricky Valadez, and Nick Dachota.
never cooled off. The defense was led by linebackers
The season began in Portage, IN. Rita Charles Elmore and Julio Ibarra, while
scored quick and never looked back in a Shakir Spells, Matt Marciano, and Trace
28-6 win. The next week was would be Shoup anchored the defensive line.
their toughest game. With four seconds Former tight end converted into a line-
left against Morris, Stan Sojka kicked a backer, Pat O’Connor, was a key contribu-
beautiful field goal from 30 yards and the tor to the defense. Performances made by
sophomores won 3-0. kicker Stan Sojka were also crucial for
Rita then began its CCL play taking on Rita this year.
Br. Rice. Seeking revenge, Rita scored As the season concluded many already
early as running back Russell Williams earned their shot to move up to Varsity ear-
found holes. Rita ended up trouncing the ly, while the others anticipate being a part
Crusaders 17-6. of what will hopefully be another cham-
Homecoming Week for Rita followed, pionship year for them and the Mustang
and the Mustangs dominated Fenwick in a Football Program.
34-0 blowout. The next game proved to
be no challenge for the sophomores as they FRESHMAN FOOTBALL Photo courtesy of Institutional Advancement
easily put away Bishop McNamara 27-6. The 2009 Mustang Freshman Football SOPHOMORE SEAN ESPOSITO runs the ball during Rita’s game vs. Providence. The
Mt. Carmel week soon followed and a season was a roller coaster. Learning sophomore Mustangs had an undefeated season, winning a sixth consecutive championship.
strong defense led to a 27-7 win over the something new was not easy, but the fresh-
Caravan. men took what they learned and turned it
As the sophomores took on local Augus- positive. 13. The freshmen quickly rebounded again The defense was led by Connor McLain,
tinian school rival Providence they game As was the case for all level of football with a rout of Bishop McNamara 40-0. Tim Lombard, and Bobby Doherty, while
was close, but a fumble return touchdown at Rita, the season started out in Portage, The roller coaster ride continued for the the offense was led by quarterback John
by Julio Ibarra gave the Mustangs the win IN. Portage was no match for the Mus- freshmen as their next pairing against Mt. Kelly, running back Guerby “Preacher”
25-16. tangs as they put them away 46-6. Carmel once again proved difficult. The Ministre, and Aris Irizarry.
The sophomores went on to crush the The next week, however, proved more Mustangs could not take over and fell to “We started out thinking we were great
Wolfpack of St. Ignatius with a 54-0 and difficult as the freshmen fell to Morris Mt. Carmel 24-14. after the Portage game,” said fellow fresh-
finished their season undefeated by taking 12-6. That did not keep the Mustangs In another tough game the following man football player Zach Pickering. “Af-
down the Ramblers of Loyola Academy down though, as they came back in their week, the Mustangs took on Providence. ter our other games we came together as a
28-23. next game that was a thriller, as Rita edged Rita went on to upset the Celtics 14-7. team and did better.”
The outstanding performance made by out the Crusaders of Br. Rice 26-25. They also were able to close out their The freshmen Mustangs have a lot of
all the players and coaching staff of this The next game brought too many mis- season defeating the Ramblers of Loyola talent, and the future looks bright as they
year’s team rightfully earned the Mustangs takes, as Fenwick handed Rita a loss 14- Academy. prepare to move to the sophomore level.

Successful Cross Country season Rita sends first


complete with new personal records golfer to State
By Austin Kingsley “Everyone loves setting personal records and the practices
Freshman Writer are even fun,” said Alfano. By Alex Summerfelt
He went on, “The hills, rain, mud, dirt, grime, and other
Junior Writer
Rita’s Mustang Cross Country team completed another forces of nature make running a path again feel like you nev-
great season this Fall. er ran it before. Running Cross Country give you experience
Lead by captains senior Kevin Favela, junior Connor LeP- that you could never get in any other sport.” Rita’s golfers have raised the bar for all future
retre, and sophomore Albert Alfano the Cross Country team Although some had decent feelings about their running Mustang golfers. The team achieved many great
competed successfully in the Chicago Catholic League and times at Sectionals, a few of them were somewhat disap- successes this year, under the leadership of new
made it past IHSA Regional and into the IHSA Sectional. pointed. Head Coach Pete Godfrey.
The team was guided by the leadership of Head Coach “THE COURSE WAS the most grueling and muddiest At the beginning of the year, Coach Godfrey
Rory Haran and assistant coaches Chuck Knibbs and Tony course I have ever raced at,” said Favela after racing the fast- asked of his team the vague question, “What goal
Sosnowski. est time among the Rita runners at Sectionals. are we going to set for ourselves? Whatever you
This was team’s first year under the leadership of Coach Despite their efforts, the racers did not make it to the IHSA choose, we’re going to work until we get there.”
Haran. He is a 1995 Rita graduate who was on the Cross State, however one must also take into account that the IHSA THE TEAM MUTUALLY decided they want-
Country and Track teams. He went on to the University of Sectional is made up of some of the best high school runners ed to send someone down to the state competition
Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, where he earned a bachelor’s in the country. for the first time in Rita history.
degree in Kinesiology (exercise physiology, biomechanics, The team suggest that next year anyone who is interested The Mustangs went on to reach that goal when
and coaching strategies). This year he will also be an assis- should give the Cross Country team a try. senior Henry Capouch became the first-ever Rita
tant coach for Rita’s Track team. “Nobody warms the bench,” said LePretre. student to have the honor of competing in the
ALMOST ALL OF the season included improvements Rita’s team sees many stars in the future, in fact, almost the IHSA State competition.
from runners, which is easily seen by looking at the statistics. entire team. The golf team also sent four of its members
However, there were a few set backs for the team including Haran said, “Throughout these halls of St. Rita, there is a to IHSA sectionals. They were seniors Capouch,
a few injuries. State Champion in any sport, they just need to come out, try Jack McDonnell, Tanner Panozzo, and junior
“You must be careful with injuries, especially with the the sport and work on it. It may not be visible right away, Quinn Sweeney.
freshmen,” said Coach Haran. but they are there. You don’t need to go anywhere fancy to Panozzo won the IHSA regional competition
“You have to think long-term and be careful not to run them gather world class athletes, they are probably right here in shooting an unbelievable 67.
too many miles. But there is great improvement among the front of your eyes.” While Capouch did not have the finish he would
freshmen,” he said. The Mustangs are young and only has three senior leaving have liked in the state competition, his achieve-
This season personal records were set constantly, such as the team: Favela, Isaiah Brown, and Steve Scheide. Next ment in getting there made this a successful sea-
with junior Gavriel Wilkins who set five new personal re- year Rita looks forward to another success season from the son for the Mustang Golf Team.
cords through the season. Cross Country team.
December 22, 2009 Page 7
MUSTANG SPORTS
Hockey rarely disappoints in quest for 3-peat
By Sean Gerich
The game was against the host team Na-
Senior Writer
perville Central. The Mustangs came hard
and skated to a 7-1 win. For the champi-
It is that time of year again, the time onship, it came down to a revenge pairing
when everyone piles into Southwest Ice with York. York fought hard to overtake
Arena to watch and cheer on the Skating Rita in their second go around, but the
Mustangs. The Mustangs have been in the Mustangs pulled off a 2-1 OT win.
midst of action since the beginning of Sep- The OT goal was scored by junior Mike
tember, and rarely disappoint. Tisoncik. Following his goal, he was
The team has only lost four players from named the MVP of the game.
last season due to graduation. Last year’s THE MUSTANGS WENT on to open
back-to-back Kennedy Cup Champion their play in the Chicago Catholic Hockey
team was young last year but this year they League with two big wins. A 10-2 win
are more mature and experienced. over Br. Rice and a 6-0 win over St. Igna-
With experienced leadership from se- tius College Prep.
nior captains Jack McDonnell and Henry The Skating Mustangs also recently bat-
Capouch and upperclassmen the team is tled for the Wolves Cup at the Prairie Ridge
heading in the right direction. Everyday Invitational, led by the great goaltending of
at practice the team has been focused on seniors Sean Gerich and Bill McGrenera.
working hard to become better. Head Var- In five games the two goaltenders let
Photo courtesy of Institutional Advancement
sity Hockey Coach Craig Ferguson has up 11 goals. The team finished 3-0-2 in WITH THE EXPERIENCED leadership of senior captains Jack McDonnell (pictured) and
been instrumental in pushing the team to the tournament. The biggest win came in Henry Capouch and upperclassmen the Varsity Skating Mustangs are heading in the right
do their very best. the championship game against Hamilton direction. The Mustangs are on a quest to win their third consecutive Kennedy Cup.
HE IS NOW in his sixth year at Rita; South East, with a final of 4-3 in OT.
Coach Ferguson is determined to lead the The game winning goal was scored by Over the Thanksgiving weekend Rita Due to their high scoring in the semi-
Mustangs to their third consecutive Ken- freshman Chris Foley. Three of the Mus- took part in the Loyola Ramblers Thanks- finals, Rita was able to claim third place
nedy Cup Championship. tangs were named to all-tournament team, giving Tournament. Being invited to this overall in the tournament.
The Mustangs’ tournament opener for forwards junior Mike Ferguson and fresh- tournament was an honor as only 16 teams IN THE PAST weeks, the Skating Mus-
the year was the Great 8 Invitational that man Keith Burchett and goalie Sean Ger- are invited and they are top teams from Il- tangs have taken on five teams, St. Viator,
took place at Naperville Central. Rita ich. linois, California, and Canada. Br. Rice, Notre Dame, Fenwick, and Provi-
proved victorious finishing champs for the The team has been rolling since their In the Mustangs bracket was Sandburg, dence, all within the CCHL. A tie against
second year in a row. victory at Prairie Ridge with many great which Rita defeated with a 6-1 victory and St. Viator, 2-2, and wins against each of
The season opener at the tournament was victories including those against Provi- Naperville Central, which was another vic- the other four opponents helped move the
against Prairie Ridge. The team came out dence 3-0 and Br. Rice 7-1. A loss came tory 4-2. Mustangs into a better position toward
with a 4-2 win. The game was tied at 2 for the team, however, against new CCHL Rita’s fate in the tournament came down achieving 1st place in the CCHL.
until 1:54 was left in the third period when rival Fenwick 3-2. to the third game in which they were paired The Mustangs had another big win
senior Blake Nevin put in the rebound. An RITA CAME BACK though and played matched up with the 2-0 St. Paul team from against Br. Rice 9-1, and one goal victo-
EN capped the game off. a hard defensively sound game against Winnapeg. In a game that was played like ries over Notre Dame, Fenwick, and Provi-
The second game was against Naperville Glenbrook North tying 1-1. No scoring a sea-saw, Rita ended up with a 2-1 win dence each.
North. The team ran the table and won went on until the third period when the and the Mustangs advanced to the semi- With every game Rita has taken steps
7-2. The third and most important game Mustangs went down 1-0, after a power finals. forward and it appears this will be a yet
was against York. York came out hard and play goal with 9:42 left in the game. In the semi-finals Rita took on host another great year for the hockey team and
wanting to beat Rita. However, that did The tie-up came when sophomore Stan Loyola, and after a rough first period be- Coach Ferguson.
not happen. Rita pulled out a 1-0 win, to Sojka had a silky smooth backhand from ing down 3-0, the Mustangs fell short los- Rita’s current record at time of print is
advance to the semi-final game. the goal line with 5:19. ing 5-4. 28-4-7 overall and 10-2-3 in the CCHL.

McGovern kicks off basketball season Running Mustangs


By Sean Nolan The Running Mustangs finished 2-2, with wins
Junior Writer over Ace Tech 72-46 and La Lumiere 78-51; but
tough losses to Uplift Academy 55-48 and tournament receive locker room
Under the leadership of new Head Coach Gary De- winners Morgan Park 86-66, led by tournament MVP Rita recently unveiled a new state-of-the-art basketball locker
Cesare, the Varisty Mustang Basketball team has been Wayne Blackshear. room. This locker room facility is just one of many recent ef-
doing a tremendous job ever since the season began. The Running Mustangs were led by senior shoot- forts made by new Head Coach Gary DeCesare to enhance the
The season began for the Mustangs with participa- ing guard Lane Barlow, who opened the season with basketball program and student experience at Rita.
tion in the Annual McGovern Classic Tournament. a 23 point game against Ace Tech. Junior Luke Barry The locker room features individual lockers for every mem-
The McGovern Classic was held at Rita between No- and sophomore Tony Hicks also played major roles in ber of the Varsity Mustang Basketball team, a video viewing
vember 23-28. the tournament. area complete with theater seating, and areas for players to
The teams that participated in the tournament were HICKS SHOWS AMAZING talent and a lot of work on their academic studies and socialize with one another.
Rita, St. Ignatius, Morgan Park, Lincoln Park, Ace potential under Coach DeCesare. “We should have Pictures of past teams are also hung in the locker room to pay
Tech, Uplift Academy, Ellison, and La Lumiere (In- won the tournament, we are a young team though tribute to those who have been a part of the Mustang Basketball
diana). and we are looking to work hard and win the Catholic tradition.
League,” said junior point “IN BUILDING UP the program, I wanted to start with hav-
guard David Murphy. ing something for the past, present, and future St. Rita Bas-
Even though the Mustangs ketball players to call their home. This new facility will truly
did not win the McGovern allow our program to grow and build great team unity,” said
Classic, the tournament had Coach DeCesare.
one of the biggest turnouts in This basketball locker loom project was made possible
recent years. through the generosity of friends of Coach DeCesare. It is lo-
Coach DeCesare appears cated on Rita’s lower level in what used to be a storage room.
to be guiding the Running
Mustangs in the right direc-
tion and he is helping to give
the team a great chance of
winning the Chicago Catho-
lic League.
“Coach is very experi-
enced and we all have faith
in his coaching,” said Barry.
The Mustangs are now 4-4
but they are on the verge of
being the next big thing in
the Catholic League. A win
over Hales Franciscan on
Photo courtesy by Herbie Johnson Friday night will guide them
JUNIOR LANE BARLOW attemps a shot as the Mustangs take on St. Ignatius. on their way to becoming
The Mustangs are off to a great start under new Head Coach Gary DeCesare. Catholic League champions.
Page 8 December 22, 2009
MUSTANG FOOTBALL
Successful season leads to Prep Bowl victory
By Craig Sabath
Sophomore Writer The following week, Rita stayed up to face
Fenwick for the Mustangs’ Homecoming
After enduring triples in the sweltering Game. Rita cruised past Fenwick 35-13.
summer heat, the Mustangs opened the Akui powered the Mustangs past the Friars
season at Portage Indiana to represent with 308 yards on 37 carries.
the Chicago Catholic League against the ‘‘I felt comfortable in the first half,’’
Portage Indians. said Akui. ‘‘The offensive line was open-
Rita entered the “Warpath” and scored ing some big holes.’’
on their first possession with junior run- FENWICK GOT ON the board in the
ning back Jahwon Akui capping it off with second quarter on a 53 yard run by their
a run of 34 yards. That drive went easy quarterback, and again in the third quarter,
enough, but the next three were not. however that wasn’t enough to close the
The Portage defense seemed to get gap. Senior Bruce Gaston, considered the
stronger after each punt it forced. Portage best defensive linemen in the Midwest, led
scored in the second quarter with a 42 the team with 7 tackles. He and junior Joe
yard pass. However, Rita responded with Maes both had a sack.
a drive that ended with Akui going 5 yards In a battle between CCL unbeatens,
for a touchdown with 2:26 left in the half. Akui again led Rita to another victory,
In the second half, Akui exploded with albeit a tough one, over Bishop McNamara.
three more touchdowns. Rita won their Bishop McNamara scored first, however,
first game of the season 35-20. “I felt we Rita responded in the second quarter with
were the better team, but we just didn’t a 5 yard run by Akui to tie the game. Rita
execute in the first half,” Akui said. “We scored again, capping a 98 yard drive with Photo courtesy of Institutional Advancement
had a slow start because it was our first a 16 yard touchdown pass from Gallik to RITA’S VARSITY MUSTANGS opened their season with a victory against Portage, IN 35-20.
game.” Akui finished the game with 305 junior Tim Gorski with 0:16 left in the
yards total. first half. “The pressure was on us. They scored to The Mustangs opened up their playoff
THE MUSTANGS TRAVELED again In the second half, Bishop McNamara cut the lead to eight, and we knew we had run at home, and dominated the visiting
in Week 2 to face Morris Community High wouldn’t let up, scoring two more touch- to go back and make plays,” said Akui. Plainfield North Tigers 40-14. Travis
School. Rita walked away with an easy downs in the second half. Rita wouldn’t Junior Travis Starks returned the ensu- Starks ran for 250 yards and four touch-
42-7 win with Akui tearing up the field either. Akui went loose for a 50 yard ing kickoff 85 yards for a touchdown to downs, and McNamara recorded two
again with 219 yards on 22 carries and touchdown in the third quarter. He scored make it 33-18. On the next Caravan pos- sacks.
four touchdowns. two more in the fourth to seal a 34-19 vic- session, they fumbled it again, this time it In the second round, Rita traveled to
Rita defenders seniors Mike Parker, tory, allowing Rita to begin preparations was recovered by senior Ron McNamara. Marian Catholic and again dominated.
Javier Green, Pat Walsh, juniors Richard for their game against Mt. Carmel. On the following drive, Akui scored his Akui returned to play and rushed for 69
Garcia and Jake Pikowski each intercepted Thousands packed the stands at Gately fifth touchdown on a 24 yard run to give yards, providing an emotional lift. Starks
a pass. Green returned his for a 75 yard Stadium to watch the 87th meeting between the Mustangs a 40-16 lead. Starks went received the most carries, though, and
score and Garcia returned his 55 yards for Rita and Mt. Carmel. Rita came ready and on to score two more touchdowns of his rushed for 149 yards. The Mustangs took
a touchdown. Morris scored its only touch- Mt. Carmel didn’t stand a chance, as Rita own. down Marian Catholic with a 34-14 vic-
down late in the fourth quarter. put 54 points in one of Rita’s most lop- THE NEXT WEEK the Mustangs tory.
Rita returned to play their home opener sided wins against Mt. Carmel. returned home to face the Providence In the IHSA State quarterfinals the
against CCL rival Br. Rice. Big plays by IT TOOK RITA only six plays to get Celtics. Akui left the game in the second Mustangs faced the Wheaton Warrenville
Rita determined the outcome as Rita won on the board, with Akui going 55 yards for quarter with a strained Achilles tendon South Tigers. The first quarter went score-
35-14. a touchdown. The Caravan turned the ball and didn’t return. Starks took his place. less. In the second quarter WWS scored
Senior Rob Gallik threw a 40 yard over with a fumble on their first posses- The game was battle of defenses as neither on a 1 yard run. Rita responded with a 13
touchdown pass to senior Kyle Jachim. sion, which was recovered by senior Dan team scored in the first half. yard touchdown run by Akui.
Rita was up 7 at halftime, but Br. Rice Connolly. However, a short punt in the third quar- With not even two minutes left to play,
began a potentially game tying drive. On fourth and goal, Akui went 2 yards ter gave the Celtics the ball deep in Rita WWS’s punt went 60 yards and rolled
However, senior linebacker Joe Campagna for his second touchdown. In the second territory and they escaped with a field sideways and out of bounds, pinning the
recovered a fumble on Rita’s 30. The next quarter, Akui broke free again scoring his goal. They scored again. The Mustangs Mustangs behind the 5 yard line. The
play Gallik connected with junior Mitch third touchdown on a 70 yard run to put fought hard, but couldn’t come back and offense couldn’t move the ball and were
Saffold for a 70 yard touchdown. Rita up 19-0. Mt. Carmel responded with lost a heartbreaker 10-0 in what was a forced to punt.
Br. Rice kept coming close until Akui a 37 yard run to make it 19-7. showdown to two huge CCL Blue pow- WWS THEN KICKED a 47 yard field
went three yards for a touchdown with 6 However, the Mustangs still had time in erhouses. goal with little over 35 seconds left in the
minutes left in the game and Rita up by the half. Gallik bombed one to Gorski for The Mustangs faced the St. Ignatius half to put themselves up 9-7. In the sec-
14. Gallik completed 11 passes for 176 45 yards. On the next play, Akui finished Wolfpack next. Starks started in place ond half, WWS scored first again on a 3
yards, and Akui picked up 108 yards on 25 the drive with an 8 yard touchdown run, of the injured Akui and ran for 90 yards yard run. In the third, Akui went into the
attempts. Senior linebacker Chris Simms his fourth. on 20 carries. Gallik sliced through the end zone again to make the score 16-14.
led the team with 13 tackles. The Caravan wasn’t done yet, however, St. Ignatius defense for 232 yards on 14 The stalemate returned until in the
The Br. Rice game also held special they scored a field goal to close the half completions. He also completed a 60 yard fourth quarter Rita fumbled a punt that
significance, as it marked Coach Todd and marched down the field on the first touchdown pass to Jachim and another to was recovered by WWS. WWS capital-
Kuska’s 100th victory as Head Coach for drive of the second half to cut the deficit Starks. ized and tossed the ball 3 yards for the
the Mustangs. to make 26-18. Sophomore safety Charles Elmore had a final score of the game. Rita couldn’t
great game, as he intercepted two passes, come back and walked off the field in a
one of which he returned for a touchdown, heartbreaking defeat of 23-14.
and one sack. However, the season wasn’t over yet,
Coach Brendan Coughlan commented as the Mustangs were given the chance to
on Elmore’s success, “He played Ignatius.” upset Br. Rice once again, this time for the
Rita emerged victorious, winning 27-10 CCL Prep Bowl Championship.
and began preparing for the regular season Br. Rice ran 70 plays from the line of
finale at Loyola. scrimmage to Rita’s 39. That did not
Rita scored on the first snap of the matter though because Rita still emerged
Loyola game as Gallik bombed a 90 yard victorious 21-0.
touchdown pass to Jachim. However, Rita It was a game fueled by big plays.
would not score again. Starks made a perfect read and returned an
“That’s the best defense we had faced interception 99 yards. Gallik in the second
all year — and we knew it coming into the quarter tossed a fade to Jachim who went
game” said Coach Kuska. “After our first 88 yards for the Mustangs second score.
score, I didn’t expect not to score again. Elmore sealed the victory, returning an
Our defense played well, too, but their interception 23 yards for a score.
blitzes and schemes prevented us from The Mustangs second defeat of Br.
doing what we wanted to do.” Rice in one season led Rita to their sec-
Loyola scored 10 points in the second ond Prep Bowl appearance in three years.
quarter and sealed their win with a touch- Rita reigned victorious as Prep Bowl
down in the fourth quarter. Fortunately Champions yet again as they beat Simeon
for the Mustangs, nothing significant was a 34-20 at Soldier Field.
stake for Rita in regards to the IHSA State See the front page for more Prep
Photo courtesy of Institutional Advancement playoffs. Bowl and season ending coverage.
JUNIOR JAHWON AKUI powers the Mustangs past Fenwick with 308 yards on 37 carries.

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