The Rambler - Cathedral Prep

VOLUME XCII
ISSUE 1
THE
IPAD
ARRIVES
AT PREP
EXCLUSIVE:
What’s in store for the
new iPad version of
The Rambler
FALL SPORTS:
THE NEW
SEASONS
BEGINS
Read about football,
soccer, water polo,
and golf
NEW FACES
AT PREP

NEWS & FEATURES
iPads debut at Prep
By Dan Makowski and Luke Merski, staff writers
All Cathedral Prep students and faculty began the 2012-13 school year with new Apple iPads. Like any new technology, the iPad presents
Prep with plenty of great opportunities and challenges
This year the administration decided to make the switch from the
traditional tablet PC to Apple’s new iPad. The switch was made on
the idea that the iPads are slicker, quicker, and easier than the tablet
PCs. When talking to Cathedral Prep principal Mr. Murnock
about the switch, he stated that iPads actually make it easier to
make things such as PowerPoint presentations (using Apple’s Keynote)
and projects.
Therefore, this allows the students to focus more on the content or
their projects rather than actually putting the project together. Mr
Fasenmyer, on the other hand, said that the apps are the main reason
the switch was made. Unlike the PCs, the iPads have class specific
apps. Apps such as recording apps for music classes and
script writing apps in video classes are making classes much easier
on the students. The extended battery life is also another reason
2

for the switch. With the iPads the battery lasts all day unlike the
PCs which would sometimes barely make it four hours.
Many students also believe that Prep made the switch because Mercyhurst
Prep announced that they were getting iPads. When Mr.
Murnock was asked about this he shot down the idea right away. As
it turns out Prep had been researching an alternative system for a
solid year before anyone heard of Mercyhurst getting iPads. During
that year Prep tested seven different tablet devices and three different
operating systems (windows based, android based, and OS
based). After much testing and research, Prep chose the iPads and
had the switch set in place before Mercyhurst even made their announcement.
Like most things at Mercyhurst, their iPads don't even compare to
what we have here at Prep. Sources at Mercyhurst (who chose to remain
anonymous) tell us that some rooms in their school don't
even have Internet access. They don't even have a room dedicated
to a tech center. All of their tech operations are run out of the library.
So the answer is no, Mercyhurst had no influence on Prep’s
decision to switch to iPads.
Throughout the first few weeks of school the students’ response has
been mainly negative. Many of the programs that allow teachers
and students to access books via the iPad experienced many technical
difficulties. Although the tech center has fixed many of the original
glitches, there still appears to be a negative feeling towards the
new system from the students.
The teachers seem to have mixed feelings about the iPads. Mr. Burger,
however, is definitely on the iPad team. He understands that in
the beginning there were definitely some hiccups, but he believes it
should only get better. He especially likes how much easier it is because
everything is right there. You don't even have to carry around
books anymore. He also jokingly stated how much easier it is to
play games, always a plus for Prep students. He put it best when he
said, "Two weeks ago I preferred the computers, but now that everything
is flowing smoothly I am on team iPad all the way."
The main synopsis
about the iPads in the
teachers eyes is simple:
they have a lot of
potential, but they just
have to get used to the
new system. The main
concerns that most
teachers have in common
is writing papers
and the books in content
locker. Most
teachers believe that
the touch screen keyboard
is going to make
Students at work using the iPad’s touch
screen keyboard.
it harder when writing large papers. Most students, however, are
used to the touch screen keyboard, so in fact the tech center does
not see a problem with this.
Some teachers also believe that the online books are going to make
it harder for the students to study. Some students prefer studying
using a paper book, and the teachers think they cannot hand out
paper books. However, through The Rambler’s investigation we
found out that teachers can hand out paper books, but it is at their
discretion. Another minor problem with the content locker was
when switching from the content locker to another app it signed
students out of the content locker. This makes you sign in each
time when going back to the content locker. Thankfully, the tech
center has found a solution to this issue.
3

So how do the students feel about the iPads so far? The reaction to
the iPads has been mostly negative. The main argument against the
iPads so far is that they are harder to take notes and write papers
on. Most of the seniors who still have their tablet PCs are still writing
papers at home on their laptops. Most of the students also miss
the wide variety of wonderful games that they could play on their
laptops.
However, there are some students that like the iPads more than the
laptops. These students mainly like the fact that we no longer have
to carry around books. Certainly, the travel from the science wing
to the fourth floor is a lot easier with all of the books on the iPad
and not packed in bookbags. Many students who are on team iPad
also enjoy the gaming. There are plenty of free games to play on the
iPads when students havefree time. But the question still stands,
will these games ever be as good as the laptop games? We may
never know.
In all, the iPads are just something that Prep students are going to
have to get used to. Many students hate them and continue to use
their laptops for papers, but many students also enjoy the iPads
more than the laptops. Once all the bugs are fixed and everyone
gets used to the iPads, then we will finally be able to use the iPads
to their complete potential.
The list of apps being used by students in school ranges
from Apple’s iWork suite of Pages, Keynote, and Numbers
to notetaking apps like Notability and Evernote as
well as the file management and content sharing app
eBackpack.
4

NEWS & FEATURES
iPad books vs. standard textbooks
By Russell Babarsky, contributing writer
This year at Prep has been very different compared to any other
year. Students received new iPads which have all of our textbooks
on it. This is a huge advancement from years past in which students
have had only a select few books on their electronic devices.
This has some huge benefits but also some major downsides.
Almost everyone remembers the days in which students had so
much homework they could barely fit all their books into their
backpacks. With the new electronic textbooks, that is no longer a
problem.
The iPad is quite slim and only weighs a few pounds. This makes it
easy fitting everything students need into their backpack! Even a
bigger benefit would be the fact that as long as students remember
to take home their iPad every day, they will remember all of their
books.
Sometimes that hardest part about homework is not actually doing
the homework, but remembering the necessary tools to do the
work. With the electronic books, homework is much easier!
The electronic textbooks have some major flaws along with the
benefits. The biggest problem with the electronic version in the
first days of school had to be Content Locker. Originally, this app
looked like a great way to access our books. In reality, this app
caused more than a few nightmares. Every time students tried to
access a note-taking app to take some notes on their reading, they
were getting signed out of Content Locker.
The first few times doing this is not bad, but after awhile, this becomes
an annoyance. The good news is that the tech center has reportedly
fixed this issue and rumor has it that Content Locker is
going to push out an update which fixes this.
Surely all students are hoping this rumor is true. Otherwise taking
notes will become next to impossible. Another problem comes
with the quality of the books. Some of the pages in the books are
cut off. This becomes a problem when it is cutting out important
information in the text.
Overall, the electronic versions of student textbooks are not bad.
They just have some flaws that need to be fixed. Once everything
gets smoothed out, I think this advancement will be for the better.
Our technology is advancing every day. It is important that we
keep up with it so that when we enter out into the world, we are
technologically prepared.
5

and edited for The Rambler from 2001-2003 said, “We’re hoping
the new iPad version is going to pleasantly surprise people and
make the school publication matter again. I am hoping it will become
extremely popular.”
The staff has a strict publication schedule, so students can expect
to have access to a new issue every two to three weeks, giving the
student body something extra to look forward to on Fridays this
year.
7

in the theatre program. This year there is something for everyone
to see and for everyone to be part of. Whether onstage as an actor,
offstage as crew, or in a seat as an audience member, take the opportunity
this year to be involved with Prep-Villa theatre.
11

NEWS & FEATURES
Mr. Markley and Mr. Biebel face
the challenge of filling Mr.
Clancey’s shoes
By Kyle Volkman, contributing writer
Cathedral Prep is known for its greatness, athletically and academically.
These next few years will be important years for our school
because some of the school’s renowned teacher’s careers will be
coming to an end. The teachers may leave us, but their Prep spirit
lives on. This year Prep lost one of its best teachers and the backbone
of the science department. Mr. Clancey’s great times at Prep
had come to an end.
Unfortunately, I never got the chance to have Mr. Clancey as my
teacher. I’ve heard nothing but good things about him. As fellow
senior Alec Slomski put it, “Mr. Clancey was an especially great
teacher because he had real world experience. He really drove the
concepts home.”
Another student, Christian “C.O.” Oliver, called Mr. Clancey “an
inspirational teacher.” His engineering background made teaching
natural.
As Mr. Clancey left Prep, two big holes needed filled in the science
department. Prep stayed in the school, giving AP chemistry to
proven teacher Mr. Markley and AP physics to Mr. Biebel.
12
I caught up with both teachers to hear how they felt about the opportunity
to teach an AP course at Prep.
Mr. Markley knew that the day would come when his friend Mr.
Clancey would stop teaching. “I knew it would be challenging and
require a lot of preparation. I had mixed feelings of excitement
and apprehension. I have some pretty big shoes to fill.”
Mr. Biebel acknowledged the big opportunity to teach AP physics,
calling it “a dream come true.”
Both teachers have kept close contact with Mr. Clancey and spent
a ton of hours in the summer preparing for the AP courses. Mr. Biebel
said he spent all summer preparing slides and notes for his AP
class. Mr. Markley spent all summer doing homework problems
and studying up.
The teachers had a few words to say on their relationship with Mr.
Clancey and the future of AP science.

NEWS & FEATURES
Meet Mr. Brooks, Mr. Pituch: two
of the new teachers at Prep
By Joe Hampy, staff writer
This school year at Cathedral Prep there are many new faces
around the school. Some of the new faces include Mr. Brooks who
teaches health on the 1st floor.
Another new face is Mr. Pituch who teaches U.S. government on
the second floor and helps out with debate.
Mr. Brooks comes to us from Harbor Creek, and Mr. Pituch comes
to us from Mercyhurst University.
Both teachers were kind enough to answer some questions for The
Rambler.
Q: Mr. Brooks, how has your transition been from Harbor Creek to
Prep?
A: It was pretty easy. The biggest difference is just making sure
that I'm prepared everyday in the classroom and on the football
field.
A: It's been great.
It’s a great place
to coach, teach,
and it appears to
be a great place to
go to school
Q: What was your
reaction upon being
hired at Prep?
A: I was very excited
and really
appreciate the opportunity.
Q: What separates Prep from all the other schools in the area?
A: Prep definitely has the feeling of a much more tight-knit family
atmosphere, and I really enjoy the relationship between the students,
players, and coaches. It makes for a unique experience.
Mr. Brooks
Q: How has your experience been so far at Prep?
14

NEWS & FEATURES
Homecoming dates still available
Homecoming is right around the corner and I know there are
many people that are still looking for dates. Here's a look at a few
bachelors still available for homecoming.
Conor Colpoys
Conor Colpoys is one of the biggest names around
the city of Erie. It is a surprise that he still doesn't
have a date yet to homecoming. He enjoys playing
basketball and rapping in his free time. You may
know him by his alternative names of CC, Turtleneck,
pancake face (or you could take his best
friend, the masked man). He spends most weekends
!
looking for fights at The Field. Don't be surprised if
he asks to take you on a dinner and a movie date after homecoming.
He is a hot commodity, so don't wait because it will be too
late.
!
By Calvin Reed, staff writer
Dan Blazek
Dan Blazek is the man around the city of Haborcreek.
Multiple women have been blowing up his
phone for a date, but he's just waiting for the one.
Don't be alarmed if he goes to homecoming wearing
a headband. It's only to ensure that he doesn't suffer
another concussion on the dance floor. He isn't
great at math, but he can always solve for A square.
Pick up the phone and give this man a call.
Neil Szoszorek
Neil is lankiest man possibly in the world. He has
been mistaken multiple times as Slender Man, but
don't worry ladies he's harmless. People call him Unreal
Neil,and if you take him to homecoming you will
soon find out why. A word of advise if you go to dinner
before homecoming: don't let him get any water.
Trust me.
Matthew Hess
I think everyone knew that Hess was going to be
dateless for homecoming. He is in desperate need
of a date, and is willing to pay for any girl to go with
him. That is a lie. Hess already has a someone in
mind to ask, so if you were going to ask don't
bother, because you will be rejected. Sorry for getting
your hopes up but he is practically taken.
!
Anthony Siggia
You can find Siggia at any of your local Wegmans.
He is best known for his lack of skill on the CYO
court. The only thing unreal about Siggia is his dad.
He has just recently went back on the market and is
looking for a lucky lady to tag-along with him to
homecoming. Word of advice, he still is emotionally
distraught after his last relationship.
!
!
16

NEWS & FEATURES
Prep switches to four-minute class
changes for new school year
By Delton Williams, staff writer
Prep has four-minute class changes for the first time ever this
year. How does this help?
Theology teacher Mrs. Slaby said she hasn't had any problems
from students coming in late or having problems getting to class
on time from the science area. She says it's a little hard to get used
to because she is still thinking about the three minute changes we
had over the last couple of years. But it goes to show it’s a big
help,and she likes it.
Plus there are less distractions during class with fewer people having
to go to the bathroom because they have an extra minute to
take care of that before or after class.
Also, a couple of seniors said they are really thankful for the
change as it makes walking in the hallway easier knowing they
don't have to rush to class. So this change is helpful to all students
and appreciated by everyone in the school.
The hallways at Prep are empty more often than not when
the bell rings these days as students have more time to
travel to and from classes.
17

THE RAMBLER VOLUME CXII ISSUE 1
Sports
Full coverage of Cathedral Prep athletics plus insights into college and pro sports.
18

SPORTS
Football wins opener 56-6
By Lewis Greco, staff writer
Friday night, August 31, marked the beginning
of a new football season for the Cathedral
Prep Ramblers. After last season's disappointing
end, in which Prep lost to Grove
City, the Ramblers were pumped up and
ready to start the season off on a good foot
against Pittsburgh's Perry High School.
Prep did not disappoint this time winning
by a considerable margin of 50 points when
the game ended with the Ramblers on top
56-6. Prep's starting defense kept Perry
scoreless into the 4th quarter when they
were finally able to put a drive together and
avoid a season opening shutout.
Contributing to Cathedral Prep's victory
were a number of returning seniors, including
1st Team All-State kicker John Chereson
who went 7 for 8 in extra points, senior
wide receiver Brendan Klemensic who
scored on an 84-yard touchdown reception in his starting debut,
and of course senior team captains 1st Team All-State running
back/defensive Back Delton Williams and quarterback Damion
Terry. On the defensive side, senior Eli Martinez made an impressive
show by almost returning an interception for a touchdown, falling
a few yards short after being pulled down by a horse collar
tackle.
Prep Quarterback Damion Terry runs in for the
score against Perry
19
Alongside Prep's stellar senior squad
were a few noticeable juniors who
made key defensive plays to keep
Perry High School out of the end
zone. Returning junior starter Felix
Manus had 2 interceptions in the first
half alone, and fellow junior Michael
Parker made an impressive grab off
of a fumble in the air to regain possession
for Prep before returning the
catch another 15 yards.
In the end the Ramblers came out victorious
showing that they've still got
what it takes to dominate on the field.
Being that this is the first season in
many years where Prep has not
started out against top rival McDowell,
everyone is wondering just how
good this team will be with a few
good games under their belt before preparing to take down the Trojans.
Hopefully this schedule change will fair well for Prep and make
them more readily prepared for a difficult season on their way to
making the playoffs.

SPORTS
College football weekend preview
By Matt Hess, staff writer
The college football season upon us. Here are my previews of this
week's top college football games.
#2. USC vs #21. Stanford
USC will travel to Palo Alto to take on Stanford at 7:30 tomorrow
night. This is USC's first big test of the year and Matt Barkley's
first big chance to make a claim as the Heisman front runner.
USC's kicker, Andre Heidari, is doubtful for the game, which could
force USC coach Lane Kiffin to go for it on fourth down, which
could turnout to be pivotal. Stanford will have to rely on newly appointed
quarterback Josh Nunes to attack USC's biggest question
mark, pass defense.
MY PICK: USC has too much speed and athleticism in the skill positions
for Stanford's defense to contain them the whole game.
Nunes won't be able to have the success he needs to get Stanford
the win.
USC 45 Stanford 27
#1. Alabama vs Arkansas
Arkansas will be trying to recover from the devastating loss against
UL Monroe at home last week in overtime. Arkansas quarterback
and Heisman candidate Tyler Wilson was believed to have suffered
a broken collarbone but has since been diagnosed with a concussion.
Wilson is doubtful to play against Alabama, and if he does
not play, it could get ugly. Alabama finally has an offense under
quarterback A.J. McCarron to go along with one of the top defenses
in the country.
MY PICK: Alabama is simply too good for the reeling Razorbacks.
McCarron could have a huge game and put this game away early
just like the Michigan game in week one. Arkansas will pull a
Strong Vincent and score in the 2nd half to make the score more
respectable.
Alabama 38 Arkansas 23
#10. Michigan State vs #20. Notre Dame
Notre Dame's head coach Brian Kelly benched his starting sophomore
quarterback Everett Golson with 2:05 left in the game last
week against Purdue for last year's starter Tommy Rees. Michigan
State has looked very solid this year and always play very well
against Notre Dame.
MY PICK: Brian Kelly's lack of confidence in any one quarterback
will cost them this game. I believe that Kelly will pull Golson at
some point during this game, and Notre Dame will be worse for it.
Michigan State will pull away at the end, but it should be a great
game to watch.
Michigan State 35 Notre Dame 27
20

#18. Florida vs #23 Tennessee
ESPN College Gameday will be heading to Knoxville to see the Volunteers
take on the Gators. It is the first time in four years that Tennessee
has been ranked. Tennessee quarterback Tyler Bray has had
a monster start to the season and is going to have to play big to
beat the Gators and remain in the top 25. Florida quarterback Jeff
Driskell, who just beat out Jacoby Brissett two weeks ago for the
job, has been managing the game well. He is going to have to do
more than manage the game to beat Tennessee.
MY PICK: Tennessee will be pumped up playing its first home
game with College Gameday there since 2004 when they lost to
Auburn. Tyler Bray has the ability to put up points, and I'm not
sure that the Gators can score enough to beat Tennessee.
Florida 24 Tennessee 33
21

SPORTS
Water polo begins promising
season
By Steve Bretz, staff writer
The Cathedral Prep water polo team started their 2012 season over
Labor Day Weekend at the McDowell Cup.
The team came into the tournament with a chip on their shoulder
due to the fact that they were playing the Thomas Worthington
Cardinals. At last years McDowell Cup, the Ramblers lost to the
Cardinals by one goal and they set out this year seeking revenge.
With three new starters (Daniel Bauman, Zach Miller, and Joseph
Marin) and a new goaltender (Lucas Buseck), the Ramblers were
determined to go undefeated over the weekend.
Their first game was early Saturday morning against their new
out-of-state rivals, Thomas Worthington. The game itself was a
thriller, going back and forth all the way to the last seconds in the
fourth quarter. With about three seconds to go in the game Prep
was up by one goal, but Thomas Worthington had the ball. With
one last possession the Cardinals gave the ball to their best player
who scored a game tying goal as time expired to send the game
into overtime.
In overtime, Prep came out strong scoring an early goal and after
that never giving up the lead. The final score was 12-11.
The next game was against the Kilbourne Wolverines. Although
they gave McDowell a run for their money, they were no match for
the Ramblers. The starting squad quickly ran up the score in a
showcase of Prep dominance and were taken out after the first
quarter. The remainder of the game was played by bench players
who normally aren't fortunate enough to see time in the pool. The
game ended with a 12-5 Prep victory.
Although the team was very eager to celebrate the two victories,
they still had one more game to play and it was a rematch with the
Thomas Worthington Cardinals.
Early in the game Prep showed too much confidence and underestimated
the Cardinals skill, which cost them greatly. Thomas Worthington
came out with an early lead and truly showed the Ramblers
the meaning of payback. Prep put up plenty of shots, but
none of them made it in the net, and this lead to a 9-3 loss, Prep's
first loss of the season.
The water polo team left the tournament with a 2-1 season record
and the leading scorers were as follows: Mike Squeglia with 9
goals, Daniel Bauman with 4 goals, and tied for third were Joseph
Marin and Luke Merski with 3 goals.
22

After the tournament I was able to score an interview with the leading
scorer and better of the two senior captains, Michael (The Big
One) Squeglia.
Q: How does the new team compare to last year's team?
A: The team has about the same amount of talent compared to the
team last year.
Q: How do you think the team is going to do this year?
A: Pretty good. Just as long as I keep scoring goals, we'll keep winning
games.
Q: What are your expectations for the McDowell game?
A: To completely pulverize them and beat their mother trucking
hinneys.
Q: People are comparing you to Garret Brotherson, how do you
take that?
A: When it comes to water polo I take it well, but when it comes to
looks I am insulted.
Q: How does the Freshman class look?
A: Tall, and they look like the most promising freshman class I've
seen in all my years. Tommy Messina (Moose) leads the class with
high expectations.
Senior water polo player Michael Squeglia
23

SPORTS
Previewing Prep soccer’s 2012
season
By Mark Lyons, contributing writer
The 2012 Cathedral Prep Soccer team faces steep expectations after
the success of the previous team, last year's District 10 champions
and State quarterfinalists. Despite losing a significant number
of senior players and starters, the team is positive they will succeed
this year.
Senior Team Captain Jack McQuown showed an optimistic attitude
towards the season. "We just beat General McLane 2-1 at
their field, and I think we really showed that we can move the ball
around and play well as a team. The scoreline doesn't say we dominated,
but there were definitely positive things we can take away
that I already mentioned, and we have a lot of time to improve further."
This is McQuown's fourth season as a member of Prep's soccer
team and this year he leads the defensive effort at the back for
the varsity team.
Sophomore Oliver Wiesner told the Rambler: "I'm excited to play
varsity this year to help the team progress as far as they did last
year."
Prep soccer will play their cross-town rivals, McDowell, several
times this year with the first game scheduled for October 4 at the
Cathedral Prep Events Center. The team can expect a decent
crowd for what will be an exciting game for all spectators.
Last year, Prep's soccer team beat McDowell 4-2 at Veteran’s Stadium
to win the District 10 title and move on to the state playoffs.
This year’s team hopes to replicate their success against McDowell
and the rest of their opponents this year with an all new team.
This year's team features a group of returning varsity players but
also a variety of new players. Prep soccer has a history of giving
the younger players a chance, and thats what you'll see on the field
this season.
24

SPORTS
Armstrong stripped of seven Tour
titles, faces lifetime cycling ban
By Lucas Buseck, staff writer
On August 24 seven time Tour de France champion, cancer survivor,
and LiveStrong founder Lance Armstrong publicly announced
that he would no longer fight the charges that have been pressed
against him by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA).
These charges, claiming Armstrong used performance enhancing
substances banned by the cycling's international governing body
(UCI) since 1996, have plagued Armstrong since his first Tour victory
in 1999.
To prove his innocence Armstrong has pointed out the hundreds
of drug tests he has taken and passed throughout his whole career.
The USADA however, sees his giving up as an indirect admission
of guilt, as Armstrong could go through an arbitration process to
get the charges dropped. Armstrong however, says he will not go
through the arbitration process as he feels the outcome of the
charges is predetermined and the investigation is an "unfair witch
hunt."
Now that Armstrong has given up the fight, these charges will first
and foremost take away his seven Tour de France titles, a number
of titles no one else has matched, and leave him with a lifetime ban
from all cycling related events. The charges could also strip him of
prize money as well as his bronze medal from the 2000 Olympic
Games.
The question that then remains is what will happen to Lance Armstrong's
legacy, a legacy Armstrong spent years building.
As a child Armstrong never had a father; before he was born his father
left his mom and never came back. Armstrong was born to
his mother when she was only 17 years old.
When he was at the peak of his career he was diagnosed with stage
III testicular cancer. Doctors gave him less than a 50 percent
chance of surviving, but he miraculously pulled through with
round after round of chemo treatments.
After he was cleared, he found the courage to get back on his bike.
Armstrong trained harder than anyone else, subjecting himself to
days riding through pouring rain and churning up mountains,
climbing more vertical feet in a day than most of us will in a lifetime.
The training paid off as he blew his competition away in the
Alps and Pyrenees on his way to an unprecedented seven Tour victories.
25

Lance Armstrong was only the second American to win a Tour de
France title, the most prestigious title in all of cycling. The first
was Greg Lemond back in 1986. After winning the Tour in 1999,
Armstrong became a sports hero and he brought back a sport to the
attention of America that had nearly been forgotten.
Armstrong transcended the life of just a sports hero, though. His
cycling garnered him much fame, and even still more attention was
brought to him from the tabloid stories of his romances with the
likes of Sheryl Crowe and Kate Hudson.
Unlike most sports stars of today, Lance Armstrong didn't let the
fame he had acquired get to him. He used his fame to spread
awareness for his foundation, LiveStrong, that he launched after he
began recovering from his treatments. Since its founding in 1997,
LiveStrong has raised over 400 million dollars to provide programming
primarily aimed towards helping those living with the disease.
So why would Armstrong just walk away? Many were shocked
when he, a fighter by all means, announced he was done trying to
prove his innocence.
Simply put, "The toll this has taken on my family and my work for
our foundation and on me leads me to where I am today - finished
with this nonsense," states Armstrong.
It seems as if Armstrong does indeed feel a weight lifted off his
shoulders.
According to his Facebook page he spent his first weekend post allegations
in a mountain bike race as well as a marathon. He spoke at
a cancer conference in Montreal and while he was there invited the
public to join him on a training run.
Regardless of whether Armstrong doped, and there is evidence out
there that he did - teammates willing to testify and, according to
the USADA, blood tests that indicate blood doping - Lance's legacy
should remain.
More important than his cycling career, Armstrong has brought
much needed attention to the cancer community. He has raised so
much awareness for the disease that needs a cure, the disease that
is in fact the leading cause of death in this world.
Everyone has been or most likely will be affected by cancer. Lance
Armstrong has given so many people inspiration to keep fighting.
Upon hearing they or someone they know has cancer, many people's
first reaction is to go out and buy the iconic yellow LiveStrong
bracelet. Yellow has become a universal color that, when worn,
shows you do support those living with cancer and are aware that a
cure needs to be found.
Around school students can be seen with LiveStrong backpacks.
On dress down days many kids can be seen in LiveStrong shoes or
LiveStrong t-shirts and shorts. In particular, on any given day
countless students can be seen wearing the yellow bracelet.
Lance Armstrong has created a legacy that goes beyond the sports
community. His no-quit attitude is something we can all draw inspiration
from, and even if he did dope to help his cycling career,
nothing can take away all the good he has done for the cancer community,
all the lives he has touched, and all the people he has given
hope.
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SPORTS
Athlete spotlight: golfer Marco
Montefiori
By Conor Colpoys, contributing writer
Cathedral Prep Golf has been a dynasty for many years. The Rambler
wanted to see what made these boys tick, so we caught up
with senior golfer Marco Montefiori by surprising him on the first
tee box at Whispering Woods. After playing a casual nine, we got
down to the nitty gritty of the interviewing process.
Q: Where does the golf team practice?
A: We practice at Whispering Woods the toughest course in the
area. We are fortunate enough that Andrew Britton’s (a junior
golfer to watch) father owns the course.
Q: What is the golf team’s record?
A: So far we are undefeated in all team region matches.
Q: When do you square off on the links with rival McDowell?
A: Well, they compete against us in all of the regional matches, but
the McDowell Invitational kicks off on September 20.
Q: Who are some golfers to watch on the team?
A: Junior Andrew Britton and sophomore Ryan Podufal are both
playing extremely well this year and are only getting better.
Q: If you had to compare yourself to someone on tour, who would
it be?
A: I would say Webb Simpson because he came from nowhere and
made a name for himself and that is what I am trying to do in the
district. Also he hits a draw similar to mine and the chicks dig him
Q: Okay, the final question. I’m not sure if you know this, but the
new assistant principal Mr. Swanson was the golf coach at Central.
Do you think you could take him? What’s your assessment of how
he developed the Falcons in his time there?
A: Well I feel I could give him at least a stroke a hole and still
cruise to victory. And to address the second part of the question;
Central has a golf team?
Q: What are the team’s expectations this year?
A: We want to continue to improve both individually and as a team
as the year goes on. Hopefully by the time that the playoffs come
around we can be poised to make a state run.
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SPORTS
Rambler student section alive and
well
By Matt Hess, staff writer
Rambler Mania has been out in full swing this football season. Due
to the McDowell game being played in week 5 this year, the senior
class felt as though it was best to get a head start on the cheering
section before week 5.
Thus far, this year's section seems to be more themed than any
year in recent memory at Prep. The students had a toga section for
the week 1 demolition of Perry. The section created a tunnel for
the players, and the players loved it. Senior captain Delton Williams
said of the tunnel, "It made me pumped. I knew going out
that all my classmates were there cheering the team on. I wish we
could have it every home game. I would love to have one for the
McDowell game."
The next home game is the homecoming game against Youngstown
Ursuline at the CPEC on September 28. The dress is what
you would expect from the homecoming game: a shirt, a tie, and if
you're looking to go really hard, a suit.
So far there have been some great cheers this year. Some of the
best cheers of the year include Jeff Stablein's popular call-andresponse
cheers. Another great cheer thus far was Conor Colpoys'
chant of "we don't play, we don't play, T-O-G-A."
For the Strong Vincent game the section pulled off a great Hawaiian
themed cheering section (except for Alex Geanous who
thought we said Alaskan themed section, common mistake I
guess). Standout senior receiver Brendan Klemensic said of the student
sections, "The toga theme was a classic! It was funny and almost
everyone wore one."
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THE RAMBLER VOLUME CXII ISSUE 1
Opinion & Editorials
Prep students have always had opinions on matters large and small. Now they have a space to share
them with the brand new opinion and editorials page.
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OPINION & EDITORIALS
Share your opinions with The
Rambler
By Op/Ed staff
We want to here from you. Write us commenting about one of our
articles. Ask us a question. Share your opinion on an important issue,
school related or otherwise.
Every month we will publish some of the best ones in the opinion
and editorials section of The Rambler. If warranted, your submission
may even get a personal response from one of our editors.
All you have to do is send an email to therambler@prep-villa.com.
It really is that simple. So go ahead, be a part of the new movement
and help make the voice of the students heard.
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OPINION & EDITORIALS
Cathedral Prep or the Sahara
Desert?
By Austin Kanonczyk, contributing writer
The brothers of Cathedral Prep have kept with hundreds of traditions
since the school was founded in the year 1921. As we continue
to grow into men of Prep we all can relate to one common aspect
of school; the temperature trapped within the halls of Prep is
similar to McDowell when it annually catches on fire. This is one
tradition that must come to an end. As you step foot in the first
floor hallway in Prep you immediately feel the unbearable heat
trapped within our building. Add hundreds of students and faculty
and staff and you reach a heat climax only simulated in the Sahara
Desert.
Scientific studies have shown that excessive heat leads to aggressive
behavior. I believe this is why our prisons are kept cool. I am
not sure that our aggression is measurable at Prep, but I am sure
that the student body as a whole is extremely uncomfortable. As
you walk from class to class throughout the day you cannot seem
to ignore the fact that the water fountain line extends through the
entire hall. It is as if the water fountain is dispensing Cherry Kool
Aid.
Prep Students attempt many tactics to stay cool under the extreme
heat conditions. A few of my personal favorites are wearing no undershirt,
taking off your shirt in general, taking off your tie, and
lastly shaving your head.
There is one question that has yet to be answered, why does Cathedral
Prep not have air conditioning throughout the school?
There are two theories that could possibly answer this question. It
would be my guess that Father Scott Jabo’s or his twin Benjamin
Jefferys’ (Class of 2012) answer to this question would be that not
having air conditioning in the building has been a tradition at Prep
since its founding and that it builds men in "Spirit, Mind and
Body.”
Mr. Murnock may suggest that along with our new massive fourminute
time slot to get to class that the presence of air conditioning
would show weakness in character. There could only be one
reason why Prep does not have air conditioning, this being that
Mercyhurst Prep and McDowell High Schools both have indoor air
onditioning.
Considering that these two schools are inferior and soft, Cathedral
Prep didn’t want to be placed into the same ballpark. But, one can
still picture a day when a student can walk into class, sit down and
score a goal in Dream League or get a homerun in Nine Innings
Baseball in a chilly, comfortable classroom.
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OPINION & EDITORIALS
Student advice for fantasy football
success
By Conor Colpoys, contributing writer
As September sets in the students are dismayed that classes have
resumed and summer has ended. However, fall does bring a hobby
that has been sweeping the halls of Prep for the past five years.
This event tests a man’s masculinity by pushing his mental toughness
to the brink.
Yes, how a man of Prep does in his Fantasy Football League can
make or break how the rest of his year will shape out. In a recent
study it was found that a Prep student who comes in first place in
his fantasy pool is 85 percent more likely to succeed academically,
socially, and athletically until next season than is the last place student.
As John Madden would say, “Fantasy football is ninety percent
half mental.” Wise words from a genius football mind considering
how much mental stress fantasy football brings.
Fantasy football starts with the all important draft. As a veteran of
fantasy football my advice to rookies is never waste a good pick on
a player coming back from a season ending injury (ex: Peyton Manning)
and never draft or start a Bill or a Brown.
After you assemble your team comes perhaps the most important
part of the process, naming your squad. All players should take advantage
of every opportunity they have, including a creative name
which can really fluster opponents. My personal favorite is “Suh
Girls One Cup.”
The final part of the fantasy process involves the decisions. These
decisions really determine how good of a fantasy football player
you are. Homework is cast aside as many Prep students spend late
night hours going insane dissecting their team’s matchups to make
the torturous decisions who to keep on the bench and who to start.
There is no worse feeling in the game then leaving points on the
bench after a loss. The only rule in this realm of fantasy is to go
with your gut and never under any circumstances follow Matthew
Berry’s advice.
With all that being said, all of you Ramblers who are man enough
to embark on the journey of manhood that is fantasy football….
good luck and remember fantasy football isn’t a one season decision
it is a forty season decision.
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THE RAMBLER VOLUME CXII ISSUE 1
The Rambler Staff
Prep’s finest when it comes to all things journalism.
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