Category Archives: Athletics

MSM hosts annual Athletics Banquet

Nearly 300 guests gathered at the DoubleTree Hotel in downtown Little Rock on Wednesday, May 4, to honor and celebrate Mount St. Mary Academy’s sports teams, student-athletes and coaching staff during the school’s annual Athletic Banquet.

 

Coaches introduced their respective teams during the event and presented the traditional awards for each player based on her years of participation. First-year players received a certificate, second-year players were given a MSM letter and symbol of the sports in which they played, third-year players received the coveted white sweatshirt with their name and sports monogrammed on the sleeves, and fourth-year players were gifted a wooden memento box engraved with their athletic accomplishments.

 

The recipients of a handful of special awards, which are selected by MSM athletic staff, were also announced during the banquet. This year’s winners include the following:

 

Msgr. Keany Award: Izzy Todd ’22

Donnie Bridges Award: Kate Raborn ’22

Sr. Phillipa Athletic Award: Sydney England ’22

Sr. Mary Phillipa Parent Award: Melanie Grace

Sr. Phillipa Manning Memorial Scholarship: Mia Aquino ’22

Mary Drake Award: Elizabeth Kehner ’23

Purple Heart Award: Savanna Hindman ’22 and Millie Ketcher ’23

Tri Belle Award: Kate Raborn ’22

Vassar-West Scholarship: Abigail Britt ’24

Clem Papineau Legacy Award: Elea Blakely ’22 and Katherine Meeks ’22

Marilyn Lenggenhager Passionate Athlete Award: Emery Horras ’23 and Josie Landrum ’22

Sara Fritz Outstanding Student Athletic Training Award: Autumn Moss ’23 and Abbie Thompson ’22

Manager of the Year: Mackenzie Edwards ’23 and Brooke Lee ’23

Most Valuable Freshman Award: Anna Kate Suffridge ’25

Most Valuable Belle: Millie Allgood ’22

 

Twenty-four student-athletes were recognized as Four-Year Scholars, having participated in athletics for all four years of high school and graduating with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher. Millie Allgood and Eleanor Lewis were awarded the Top Scholar Athlete Award for maintaining the highest academic average while also participating in the athletic program at Mount.

 

MSM Athletic Director Lane West honored the coaching staff at the event, as well, and paid special tribute to Beth Pursley who is retiring at the end of the school year. Mrs. Pursley coached soccer and cross country during a large part of her 22 total years at MSM.

 

Congratulations to all of this year’s hard-working and dedicated student-athletes and their coaches.

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Three student-athletes honored at All Arkansas Preps Banquet

Three Mount St. Mary Academy student-athletes were honored during the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette’s 2020-2021 All Arkansas Preps Banquet on Saturday, June 19, at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock. Swimming Belle Olivia Chambers ’21 received the CHI St. Vincent Health Award. Additionally, Golf Belle Isabel Chaidez ’22 and Soccer Belle Abbey Moore ’21 were named to their respective sports’ All Arkansas Preps teams.

 

The CHI St. Vincent Health Award was one of only two “Inspiration Awards” presented during the event. It honors an Arkansas high school student-athlete who has overcome a health challenge and did so with grace and humility while inspiring his/her team and community on the journey.

 

“I nominated Olivia because she has remained upbeat and happy regardless of her prognosis,” said MSM Head Swim Coach Quincey Johnson. “She is positive and determined and always in good spirits. Olivia has been battling for her vision for nearly two years now, and she is still smiling and pressing on and achieving her goals.”

 

Olivia, who placed 2nd in the 100 backstroke and 4th in the 200 IM at this year’s 6A State Swim Meet in February, will be attending the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls where she has already committed to joining the women’s swim and dive team. She is the first Belle to sign at a Division I school since 2017. Olivia’s story of courage and perseverance through an unexpected health challenge that left her legally blind was featured in this Arkansas Catholic article in May.

 

In addition to Olivia’s recognition, Isabel and Abbey were honored for their achievements in golf and soccer, respectively, this past year. Isabel was announced as one of just 10 members of the 2021-2021 All Arkansas Preps Girls Golf Team. With a personal best one-under par total score, she finished second in this year’s 6A Girls Golf State Tournament and qualified for the Arkansas State Golf Association High School Overall Championship. She was named All-Conference for the third year in a row and All-State for the second straight year.

 

Abbey was selected to this year’s All Arkansas Preps Girls Soccer Second Team. She received All-State honors this year and was one of only 16 players across the 6A classification named to the 2021 All-Tournament Team. Next year Abbey will continue her soccer career with the Division II women’s soccer program at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Ark.

 

Congratulations to Olivia, Isabel and Abbey! Go Belles!

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Mount St. Mary honors sports teams, student-athletes and coaching staff

More than 200 guests gathered at the DoubleTree Hotel in downtown Little Rock on Monday, May 10, to honor and celebrate Mount St. Mary Academy’s sports teams, student-athletes and coaching staff during the school’s annual Athletic Banquet.

 

Coaches introduced their respective teams during the event and presented the traditional awards for each player based on her years of participation. First-year players received a certificate, second-year players were given a MSM letter and symbol of the sports in which they played, third-year players received the coveted white sweatshirt with their name and sports monogrammed on the sleeves, and fourth-year players were gifted a wooden memento box engraved with their athletic accomplishments.

 

The recipients of a handful of special awards, which are selected by MSM athletic staff, were also announced during the banquet. This year’s winners include the following:

 

  • Msgr. Keany Award: Millie Allgood ’22
  • Donnie Bridges Award: Hannah Denery ’21
  • Sr. Phillipa Athletic Award: Abbey Moore ’21
  • Sr. Mary Phillipa Parent Award: Meredith Snape
  • Sr. Phillipa Manning Memorial Scholarship: Libby Franks ’21
  • Mary Drake Award: Isabelle Todd ’22
  • Purple Heart Award: Olivia Chambers ’21 and Katie Wilcox ’21
  • Vassar-West Scholarship: Isabel Chaidez ’22
  • Marilyn Lenggenhager Passionate Athlete Award: Haley Draeger ’22
  • Manager of the Year: Mia Aquino ’22 and Becca Besier ’22
  • Most Valuable Freshman Award: Madeline McNeill ’24
  • Most Valuable Belle: Chloe Gourde ’21

 

Thirty-one student-athletes were recognized as Four-Year Scholars, having participated in athletics for all four years of high school and graduating with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher. Chloe Gourde was awarded the Top Scholar Athlete Award for maintaining the highest academic average while also participating in the athletic program at Mount.

 

MSM Athletic Director Lane West honored the coaching staff at the event, as well, and paid special tribute to two members who are retiring from their coaching duties this year: Stephanie Boccarossa Pierce ’06 and Ashley Boccarossa McNatt ’03, who have dedicated 14 years and 4 years, respectively, to coaching soccer at their alma mater.

 

Congratulations to all of this year’s hard-working and dedicated student-athletes and their coaches.

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Cross Country Belles’ season comes to a close

The Cross Country Belles wrapped up their season on Friday, November 6, finishing 13th at the 6A State Championship Meet at Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs. The schedule was shortened this year due to COVID-19, but the team was able to compete in four meets across the state in addition to conference and state competitions. They finished 5th in the 6A Central Conference.

 

“Despite the unique challenges presented by this season, the MSM Cross Country team had a very successful year,” Coach Rachel McLemore said. “We had excellent senior leadership from Fran Edwards and Chloe Gourde that helped us make the best of the changes to our practice space and meet protocols.”

 

Coach McLemore also praised the team’s hard work and progress over the course of the abbreviated season. “We were a young team this year, with six freshmen and two new upperclassmen runners in addition to our seven returning runners. Almost every runner achieved a personal best time at some point thanks to their hard work. Everyone on the team made great progress this year and we have a lot to look forward to next season!”

 

Well done, Cross Country Belles and Coach McLemore!

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Volley Belles’ season includes state tourney play once again

Despite the challenges surrounding this year’s season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Volley Belles enjoyed success and advanced to the 6A State Tournament once again. The team entered the tournament as the 5th seed out of the Central Conference and ended up losing three hard-fought sets to Bentonville, the 4th seed out of the West Conference, in the first round on October 27. With an overall record of 9-8 – and 9-6 in conference play – the Volley Belles finished the 2020 season 4th in the 6A Central Conference, improving two spots from 2019.

 

A handful of players were recognized for their accomplishments on the court this year. Catalina Williams ’21 earned both All-State and All-Conference honors. Millie Allgood ’22, Shailey Jackson ’21, Katie Kaelin ’21, Riley Ray ’21 and Lily Williamson ’21 were all awarded All-Conference honors, as well. Additionally, at least three seniors will be playing at the college level next fall. Shailey and Catalina have plans to join the Warriors at Hendrix College in Conway, and Lily will play for the Panthers at Birmingham-Southern College in Alabama. Both schools are members of NCAA Division III and the Southern Athletic Association.

 

This was the second season for Head Coach Jorge Martinez and the first for Varsity Assistant Coach Reyes Cordero. “Though the season ended sooner than we hoped with a tough loss in the state tournament to 2019 Champion Bentonville, there were many accomplished goals to celebrate,” Coach Martinez said. “Coach Cordero and I both feel like the program is on the right path and that there’s been nothing but progress in every aspect of the game. The future is bright, and we can’t wait for the next season!”

 

The Mounties also had a successful season. Led by Head Coach Jessica Crow and Assistant Coach Amber Pruss, the freshman team finished 2nd overall in the conference with a 7-2 record in conference play. Their season ended with a loss to North Little Rock in the quarterfinals of the conference tournament.

 

Congrats to the Volley Belles and Mounties, and their coaches, for great seasons!

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Tennis Belles successfully defend conference title

For the second straight year, the Tennis Belles are Conference Champions after successfully defending their title in the 6A Central Conference Championship at Rebsamen Tennis Center in Little Rock on October 6 and 7. The team advanced to the State Tournament on October 12 and 13 at the same location and ended up finishing fourth overall in the state in Arkansas’ highest classification.

 

Both doubles teams advanced to the championship game in the Conference Tournament. Libby Franks ’21 and Tasha Moreland ’22 defeated teammates Anna Grace ’22 and Libby Raffaelli ’22 to win the title of 6A Central Conference Girls Doubles Champions. Additionally, both teams finished among the top four pairs in the State Tournament. Their performance in both tournaments earned these four players All-State and All-Conference honors.

 

Caroline Lasley ’24 and Abby Whittaker ’24 also received All-Conference recognition. Caroline had advanced to the singles championship game in the Conference Tournament, where she earned runner-up.

 

“The whole team practiced and competed at the highest level all season. They are one of the best squads I have had over the past 37 years,” Coach Tim Glancy said. “They all should be proud of themselves for the way they have handled all the situations that have occurred over the past year.”

 

Congratulations on another successful season, Tennis Belles and Coach Glancy!

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Young Golf Belles finish strong

The Mount St. Mary Academy golf team, coached by MSM science teacher Marty Perry, finished in 7th place in the 6A Girls Golf State Tournament in Bryant on September 30. After beginning play in early August prior to the start of the school year, this event concluded the 2020 season for the relatively young Golf Belles.

 

The competition began the previous day. The team placed 7th out of 15 teams to earn one of eight spots in the final round. With a personal best one-under par total score, Isabel Chaidez ’22 finished as this year’s 6A State runner-up. She persevered through the round after a shaky start and finished an eagle-birdie-par on the last three holes to secure 2nd place by one stroke. Her performance in the two-day tournament earned her All-Conference for the third year in a row and All-State for the second straight year. Additionally, she qualified for one of just 18 spots in the Arkansas State Golf Association High School Overall Championship, which will take place on October 15 at Pleasant Valley Country Club in Little Rock.

 

Bella Finley ’22 and Savvy Straessle ’24 also shot personal bests during the 6A State Tournament. Other team members competing in the event were Audrey Darragh ’23 and Kennedy Griffin’24. Chloe Bartlett ’24 and Olivia Bulloch ’23 and were members of this year’s Golf Belles, as well.

 

Congrats on a great season, Golf Belles and Coach Perry! And good luck, Isabel!

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Senior Basketball Belle’s volunteerism recognized by All Arkansas Preps, two other student-athletes also honored

Mount St. Mary Academy’s athletic program will be well represented in the upcoming Arkansas Democrat-Gazette All Arkansas Preps awards ceremony. Three student-athletes from the Class of 2020 are set to be honored during the event, which will take place virtually this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Basketball Belle Catherine Althoff has been chosen as the recipient of the Hussman Community Award. Additionally, Golf Belle Lauren Loeb and Tennis Belle Presley Southerland have been named to their respective sports’ All Arkansas Preps teams.

 

The Hussman Community Award, named in honor of Arkansas Democrat-Gazette publisher Walter E. Hussman Jr., is one of only three All Arkansas Preps “Inspiration Awards” that will be presented during the ceremony. It honors one Arkansas high school student-athlete who has worked to better his or her community through volunteerism, and who has demonstrated strong leadership skills while setting a positive example for others.

 

“Between a demanding course load and the responsibilities associated with athletics and being a student athletic trainer, Catherine’s plate was already incredibly full. Yet she always made time to volunteer, and she served her community in many ways throughout high school,” said MSM Athletic Director Marilyn Lenggenhager, who nominated Catherine for the award. “Her demonstrated commitment to academics, athletics and service deserved to be recognized. It’s truly phenomenal all Catherine has been able to accomplish within such a busy schedule.”

 

Lauren Lawrence, head basketball coach at MSM, shared similar sentiments upon learning that this year’s co-captain had been selected for the Hussman Community Award. “Catherine is the epitome of a high achiever. She consistently strives to be the greatest version of herself and certainly doesn’t fall short when it comes to volunteering. She always puts her best foot forward with a smile on her face as she is helping others and our community,” she said.

 

Catherine will be recognized as this year’s Hussman Community Award recipient during the 2019-2020 All Arkansas Preps virtual awards ceremony on Thursday, June 18. It will be streamed live on Facebook at www.facebook.com/allarkansaspreps beginning at 6:30 p.m.

 

In addition to Catherine’s recognition, Lauren and Presley will be honored for their achievements in golf and tennis, respectively, when they’re announced as one of just 12 members of their sports’ All Arkansas Preps teams. Lauren finished second in this year’s 6A Girls Golf State Tournament and third in the Arkansas State Golf Association High School Overall Championship. Presley was this year’s 6A State Singles Champion and finished as runner-up in the Overall State Tennis Tournament. Both Belles received All-Conference and All-State honors this year, as well.

 

Perhaps even more exciting is the fact that all three seniors have plans to continue playing sports at the college level next year: Catherine at Rhodes College in Memphis, Lauren at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, and Presley at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.

 

Congrats to Catherine, Lauren and Presley! Go Belles!

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Mount St. Mary honors sports teams, student-athletes virtually

This year’s annual Athletic Banquet was canceled due to COVID-19, but that didn’t stop Mount St. Mary Academy from celebrating its sports teams, student-athletes and coaching staff. The school held a virtual Athletic Awards Celebration on Monday, May 11, during which Principal Sara Jones and Athletic Director Marilyn Lenggenhager recognized the accomplishments of the 2019-2020 teams and announced the recipients of this year’s special awards.

 

The winners of this year’s special awards, which are selected by MSM athletic staff, include the following:

 

  • Fr. Keaney Award: Kaitlin Tarini ’20
  • Donnie Bridges Award: Cami Kita ’20
  • Sara Fritz Outstanding Student Athletic Trainer Award: Catherine Althoff ’20
  • Sr. Phillipa Athletic Award: Lauren Loeb ’20 and Lily Wewers ’20
  • Sr. Phillipa Parent Award: Kim Markland and Kate Franks
  • Sr. Phillipa Memorial Scholarship: Sarah Johnson ’20 and Catherine Althoff ’20
  • Mary Drake Award: Millie Allgood ’22
  • Purple Heart Award: Presley Southerland ’20
  • Vassar-West Scholarship: Mia Aquino ’22
  • Marilyn Lenggenhager Passionate Athlete Award: Cami Kita ’20 and Fran Edwards ’21
  • Manager of the Year: Sarah Kate McConnell ’22
  • Most Valuable Freshman Award: Alexia Coca ’23 and Blair Barnett ’23
  • Most Valuable Belle: Kaitlin Tarini ’20

 

Thirteen student-athletes were recognized as Four-Year Scholar Athletes, having participated in athletics for all four years of high school and graduating with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher. Lily Wewers was awarded the Top Scholar Athlete award for maintaining the highest GPA while also participating in the athletic program at Mount.

 

The virtual event also honored the coaching staff and paid special tribute to three coaches who are retiring from their coaching duties this year: Bubba Klugh (golf), Brian Loeb (golf) and Chuck Toomer (cross country).

 

View the virtual Athletic Awards Celebration online at https://youtu.be/oN5xGjD-wFw.

 

Congratulations to all of this year’s hard-working and dedicated student-athletes and their coaches. We are proud of you and all you do for Mount St. Mary and its athletic program.

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Basketball Belles’ season includes state tournament appearance

For the first time in three years, the Basketball Belles enjoyed postseason play. The team’s impressive 16-point win over the Central Tigers in their final regular season game of the year on February 28 earned them sixth place in the 6A Central conference and a trip to the State Basketball Tournament in Bryant.

 

The no. 6 seed Belles were matched against no. 3 seed Har-Ber in the first round of the tournament on March 4. Though the game remained close up until its final minute, the team ultimately lost 43-37 to the Lady Wildcats, thus ending the Basketball Belles’ nearly four-month long season.

 

“I couldn’t be more proud of this team,” MSM theology teacher and head coach Lauren Lawrence said. “Their attitudes and effort have been such a huge part of this year’s success.”

 

Coach Lawrence also praised the leadership of team captains Catherine Althoff ’20 and Kaitlin Tarini ’20. “We’ve also had two of the best senior leaders that helped shape this team into what it was and made this program better by being a part of it,” she said.

 

In addition to their appearance in this year’s 6A State Basketball Tournament, a highlight of the season was winning the consolation bracket of the Spa City Shootout in Hot Springs in December.

 

Congratulations Basketball Belles!

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

2020 Basketball Skills Academy for 4th-8th Graders

UPDATE: The 2020 Basketball Skills Academy, originally scheduled for April 5 through May 3, has been canceled due to the COVID-19 outbreak.  Please contact Coach Lauren Lawrence at llawrence@mtstmary.edu if you have any questions.

 

Mount St. Mary Academy is once again hosting its popular Basketball Skills Academy for girls in grades 4-8. Held each spring, the program’s goal is to help young players build a basketball skills foundation and love of the game. Instructors focus on fundamental basketball skills including dribbling, shooting, passing, and defense principles. The program also includes team and individual competition.

 

The 2020 Basketball Skills Academy is scheduled for April 5 through May 3. Sessions will take place from 5:30-7:00 p.m. on select Sundays and Mondays in the McAuley Center Gym at Mount St. Mary Academy. The cost per participant for the seven-session program is $125. Space is limited. For more information, contact Coach Lauren Lawrence at (501) 664-8006 or llawrence@mtstmary.edu, or download the flyer and registration form.

Bowling Belles finish season fifth in state

The Bowling Belles recently completed their season, which once again included postseason action. The team finished 5-1 in their regular season matches, came in fourth at this year’s Baker Competition in late January, and finished in third place at the 6A Central Conference Tournament in Conway on February 5. The top-three finish earned them one of 10 spots in the 6A State Tournament in Fort Smith on February 13, where the team came in fifth overall – up two places from last year’s finish. The Bowling Belles are coached by MSM science teacher Lauren Naeyaert and volunteer assistant Justin Draeger.

 

“We are super proud of the Bowling Belles this season,” Coach Naeyaert said. “We improved since last season, and we expect to improve even more over the off season. These ladies are amazing!”

 

In addition to the team’s success, Haley Draeger ’22 earned All-State honors with her ninth place overall finish at the State Tournament.

 

Congrats to the Bowling Belles and their coaches for another successful season!

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Senior Golf Belle signs with Division II Reddies

A group of family, teammates, friends and coaches joined together in the McAuley Center on Thursday, Jan. 23, to celebrate a member of the Golf Belles for committing to play at the collegiate level. Senior Lauren Loeb signed her letter of intent with Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, becoming this year’s first student-athlete from the Mount St. Mary Class of 2020 with plans to continue playing her sport in college next fall.

 

Lauren began playing golf with a set of plastic clubs in her backyard when she was just four years old. By age seven, she was playing competitively in tournaments. “I have played in so many tournaments since then, I’ve lost count,” she said. “I love this sport and would not trade it for anything.”

 

The second place finisher in the 2019 6A State Golf Tournament, Lauren has enjoyed a successful career as a Belle. She earned All-Conference and All-State honors all four years of high school in addition to being named to the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette’s All Arkansas Preps girls golf team for the 2018-19 and 2019-20 seasons. Lauren’s performance at this year’s state tournament also qualified her for the Arkansas State Golf Association’s High School Overall Championship on October 17, where she shot a 79 and finished third among the best high school golfers in the state.

 

“The past four years at Mount have been absolutely amazing,” Lauren said. “Team bonding is a very important quality to have on any team, no matter the sport. I have had so much fun being a part of the Golf Belles, and I have made friends with girls I will never forget.”

 

Lauren also credits her time at Mount with preparing her for college. “MSM has taught me how to balance my academics with my sport and, thus, be successful in both,” she said. “It has also given me the opportunity to enhance my work ethic and responsibilities on and off the course.”

 

According to Lauren, several factors went into her college decision process. “It has been a dream of mine since I was little to play college golf,” she said. “I wanted to go to a college that offered a great education, was relatively close to home, offered the majors I was interested in and had an excellent golf program.” Lauren, who is interested in majoring in marketing or hospitality/event planning, said Henderson State filled all these needs.

 

“I am blessed to have the opportunity to play college golf at Henderson State,” Lauren said. “I am very excited about my future team and what can be accomplished on and off the course there.”

 

Lauren’s older sister, Taylor Loeb ’16, is currently completing her final season on the Reddies women’s golf team at Henderson State. This 2017 article in Arkansas Catholic details the sisters’ background and success in the sport.

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Cross Country Belles run season’s final race

The Cross Country team finished their season on Saturday, November 9, at the 6A State Championship Meet at Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs. Eight Belles participated in final 5000 meter run of the year.

 

“We had five new runners on the team this year, so the girls learned a lot about themselves and how far they could push,” Coach Rachel McLemore said of the young team’s progress over the course of the two-month-long season. “Everyone was able to set personal goals, and they worked really hard to meet them. We saw almost everyone on the team hit a PR on several occasions this year.”

 

According to Coach McLemore, Fran Edwards ’21 entered the season with the goal of making All-Conference. Fran ended up finishing sixth overall out of more than 100 runners at the 6A Central Conference Cross Country Meet in Fort Smith on October 26. Her 23:22.28 time earned her All-Conference honors.

 

“She came to every practice to work hard and really led by example,” Coach McLemore said.

 

Congrats on a great season, Cross Country Belles and Coach McLemore!

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Season marked with success for Volley Belles, first year coaches

After three months of hard work and dedication, and competing in more than 20 games, the Volley Belles ended their season with a tough three-set loss to Fayetteville at the 6A State Tournament in Cabot on October 29. The team finished sixth in the 6A Central Conference with an overall record of 14-11-1. They were 6-8 in conference play.

 

This was the first year for Head Coach Jorge Martinez and Freshman Head Coach and Varsity Assistant Jessica Crow. Despite the season ending sooner than they’d hoped, the Volley Belles had a lot to celebrate.

 

“We made the Gold Bracket at every tournament we competed in, including Spikefest, the Lady Cat Tournament in Conway and the Fort Smith Invitational,” Coach Martinez said. “We also had signature wins over North Little Rock and Bentonville West this year.”

 

Individually, several players were recognized for their play. Millie Allgood ’22, Lauren Marendt ’20 and Maddie Walters ’20 were awarded All-Conference honors. Millie was also named an All-Star at the State Tournament. Additionally, Coach Martinez was selected to serve as the conference’s All-Star Coach next summer.

 

“Coach Crow and I both feel like solid groundwork for future success was laid this season,” Coach Martinez said. “We can’t wait for next season to begin.”

 

Congrats to the Volley Belles and their coaches for an exciting season!

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Tennis Belles celebrate a championship season

This year’s Tennis Belles ended their successful season on a high note, winning the 6A Central Conference Championship at Rebsamen Tennis Center on October 7 and 8. The team advanced to the State Tournament in Springdale, held on October 14 and 15, and ended up finishing as the third place team in the state in Arkansas’ highest classification.

 

Additionally, senior Presley Southerland won the 6A State Singles Championship with a commanding 6-2, 6-1 victory over her opponent in the finals. She won the 6A Conference title, as well. Presley will compete in the State Overall Tournament at Burns Park Tennis Center on October 21 and 22.

 

Presley’s performance in the conference and state tournaments earned her All-State and All-Conference honors. Libby Franks ’21, Anna Grace ’22, Tasha Moreland ’22, Libby Raffaelli ’22 and Hagan Smith ’21 also received All-Conference recognition.

 

“I’m very proud of our girls,” coach Tim Glancy said. “They handled themselves with sportsmanship and honor throughout the season, and they all played a part in our conference championship and third place finish in State.”

 

Congratulations to Coach Glancy and the Tennis Belles! And good luck, Presley!

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Golf Belles finish strong season

The Mount St. Mary Academy Golf team, coached by volunteer coach Brian Loeb, recently completed their season, which kicked off at the beginning of August prior to the start of the school year.

 

Holly Byrne ’20, Isabel Chaidez ’22, Lauren Loeb ’20 and Lily Wewers ’20 competed in the 6A Girls Golf State Tournament in Fayetteville on October 1 and 2 where they finished in fifth place as a team. Lauren finished 2nd overall and Isabel finished 8th, which earned both Golf Belles All-Conference and All-State honors. Lauren also qualified for one of just 18 spots in the Arkansas State Golf Association High School Overall Championship, which will take place on October 17 at Pleasant Valley Country Club in Little Rock.

 

Congrats on a great season, Golf Belles and Coach Loeb! And good luck, Lauren!

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Mount St. Mary Honors Student-Athletes and Coaching Staff

More than 350 guests gathered at the DoubleTree Hotel in downtown Little Rock on Monday, May 13, to honor and celebrate Mount St. Mary Academy’s 196 student-athletes during the school’s annual Athletic Banquet.

 

Coaches introduced their respective teams during the event and presented the traditional awards for each player based on her years of participation. First-year players received a certificate and keepsake with their graduation year, second-year players were given a MSM letter and symbol of the sports in which they played, third-year players received the coveted white sweatshirt with their name and sports monogrammed on the sleeves, and fourth-year players were gifted a wooden memento box engraved with their athletic accomplishments.

 

A handful of special awards were presented during the banquet, as well:

 

  • Sr. Phillipa Athletic Award: Ava Fischer ’19
  • Sr. Phillipa Parent Award: Michelle Kaelin
  • Sr. Phillipa Memorial Scholarship: Karina Brockwell ’19 and Yesica Reyes Vasquez ’19
  • Mary Drake Award: Ashley Suffridge ’19
  • Purple Heart Award: Anya Ranaraja ’19
  • Manager of the Year: Caroline Martine ’19 and Alicia Sustaita ’19
  • Passionate Athlete Award in Honor of Marilyn Lenggenhager: Catherine Althoff ’20 and Catalina Williams ’21
  • Vassar-West Scholarship: Katie Kaelin ’21
  • Most Valuable Freshman Award: Millie Allgood ’22
  • Most Valuable Belle: Anya Ranaraja ’19

 

Twenty-seven student-athletes were recognized as Four-Year Scholars, having participated in athletics for all four years of high school and graduating with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher. Annie Quo, Madi Perreault and Ashley Suffridge were awarded the Top Scholar Athlete Award for maintaining the highest academic average while also participating in the athletic program at Mount.

 

MSM Athletic Director Marilyn Lenggenhager honored the coaching staff at the event, as well, and paid special tribute to five coaches who are retiring from their coaching duties this year: Marissa Blair, Brendan Britt, Lindann Blair Day, Jennifer Herzog and Lane West.

 

Congratulations to all of this year’s hard-working and dedicated student-athletes and their coaches. We are proud of you and all you do for Mount St. Mary and its athletic program.

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Soccer Belles’ Successful Season Leads Team to State Semifinals

The Soccer Belles’ exciting season came to a bittersweet end on Saturday, May 11, as the team lost to the no. 1 seed Conway Wampus Cats in the semifinals of the 6A State Soccer Tournament in Conway. Entering the state tournament as the no. 3 seed from the 6A Central Conference, the Belles defeated Bentonville West 3-1 and Rogers 2-1 to advance to the semifinals. The team ended up losing 1-0 to the conference champion Wampus Cats in an extremely hard-fought game. The girls gave their all through rain and cold temperatures, preventing Conway from scoring until the final six minutes of the game. Mount St. Mary last won the girl’s state soccer title in 2008.

 

Despite the heart-breaking loss, the Soccer Belles have a lot to celebrate. The team went 12-5-1 overall and 10-4 in conference play to finish third in the 6A Central Conference and sixth in the state. Senior Anya Ranaraja and junior Cami Kita were awarded All State honors, and seniors Riley Hanan, Gracie May, Kaydee Price and Ashley Suffridge received All Conference honors. Additionally, two seniors committed to continue playing the sport in college this fall. Anya signed with the Lynx at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee, and Mallory Howard plans to join the Lady Mustangs at Central Baptist College in Conway.

 

The JV soccer team enjoyed a successful season, as well, remaining undefeated throughout their entire schedule.

 

Congrats to the Soccer Belles, including head coach Stephanie Boccarossa and assistant coaches Donnie Bridges and Ashley McNatt, on a very successful and exciting season. We are so proud of you!

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Softball Belles’ Season Marked With Several Exciting Moments

The Softball Belles recently completed their 10-week season and have a lot to celebrate despite finishing eighth in the 6A Central Conference. The team went 4-0 in the Little Rock Invitational at J.A. Fair at the start of the season, ultimately winning the tournament after defeating Pine Bluff 9-4 in the championship game. Two additional victories followed to result in an impressive six-game win streak for the Softball Belles before heading into conference play in early March.

 

The team enjoyed another exciting moment later in their season when freshman Olivia Coppens hit a grand slam in the bottom of the sixth inning during their game against Russellville on April 11, propelling the Belles to a thrilling 15-14 come-from-behind victory. Additionally, Olivia and her teammate, senior Hannah Day, both received All Conference honors for their performance during the season.

 

We are proud of the Softball Belles, including head coach Lauren Naeyaert and assistant coaches Rick Marendt and Lane West, on their accomplishments this season.

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Season Comes to an End for Track and Field Belles

The Mount St. Mary Academy Track and Field team completed their season on Friday, April 26, at the 6A Central Conference Championship at Scott Field in Little Rock. The team competed in seven events. The 4×100, 4×400 and 4×800 relay teams all qualified for the state championship in Hot Springs on May 3, though they did not participate due to sickness and the Closing Prayer Service occurring on the same day.

 

The team competed in a handful of track meets across Central Arkansas during their season, which began in March. A highlight included sophomore Staley Tatum winning the 800-meter race at the Wampus Cat Relays hosted by Conway High School on April 16 with a time of 2:33.18.

 

Congratulations to Coach Cody Henry and the Track and Field Belles on a great season!

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Senior Soccer Player Commits to Nearby CBC

Family, teammates, friends and coaches filled the McAuley Center gym stage once again on Friday, April 12, to celebrate another member of the Soccer Belles for committing to play at the collegiate level. Mallory Howard ’19 made official her intent to join the Lady Mustangs at Central Baptist College (CBC) in Conway this fall.

 

Mallory began playing soccer when she was just 4 years old. She has competed at the club level since then – most recently with Arkansas United, formerly Little Rock Futbol Club (LRFC) – and played high school soccer for the Belles during all four years at Mount.  She earned All Conference honors her junior year and was also the recipient of the Passionate Athlete Award for her dedication to the sport and her teammates.

 

“I have loved playing at Mount,” Mallory, whose favorite memory is winning the first game in the state tournament last year, said. “It has allowed me to come together with all the different girls I’ve played with and against throughout the years. Mount sports have definitely provided me with life-long friends and family.”

 

The 5-foot-3-inch midfielder also credits her involvement in the sport with giving her the perseverance to overcome challenges both on and off the field. “Soccer has taught me to push through whatever life throws at me,” Mallory said. “Being told I’m ‘too small’ for sports really motivated me to work as hard as I can in every aspect of the game as well as in my life. Throughout many injuries, I have worked hard to come back stronger than before, which I’ve learned to do any time life throws me a curveball.”

 

Those around her are quick to recognize Mallory’s determination, as well. “Mallory is a huge asset to our team. She’s feisty, extremely talented and always gives 110%,” MSM Soccer Coach Stephanie Boccarossa said. “What makes her unique is that she has as much heart as she does talent. She will fight as hard as she can, even if it’s against a girl twice her size.”

 

Chris Murphy, director of soccer operations and head women’s soccer coach at CBC, agreed. “When I coached Mallory as a youth player, I noticed immediately that she possessed a grit and tenacity that far exceeded most her peers, and a maturity as well as a thoughtful nature that I always felt far exceed her years,” he said. “When I took over as the women’s head coach at CBC, hers was one of the first names that came to mind because of those qualities, which I could tell were still very much intact after scouting some of her games. We can’t wait to see what Mallory will do as a Mustang!”

 

Mallory, who also played basketball for the Belles and was selected by her peers as Basketball Homecoming Queen earlier this year, is looking forward to attending school nearby at CBC. She feels academically prepared for college thanks to her time at Mount and is considering majoring in biology or kinesiology in order to pursue a career in physical therapy.

 

“I’m super excited about getting to be a part of the CBC family,” Mallory said. “Academically, CBC is a great school that will provide me with what I need for the future. As far as soccer goes, I can’t wait for the next four years. Coach Murphy was my first coach at LRFC when I was 11, and he has always been one of my favorite coaches.”

 

Mallory is the MSM soccer program’s second senior to sign this year. Team Captain Anya Ranaraja ’19 committed with Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee, in February.

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Annual Spirit Banquet Honors MSM Cheerleaders and Rockettes

Mount St. Mary Academy hosted a special evening for its spirit squads on Sunday, March 3. Held at the Country Club of Little Rock, the Spirit Banquet celebrated the groups’ accomplishments over the past year and honored several young women with individual awards.

 

The cheerleading squads and Rockettes dance team entertain crowds and promote school spirit year-round at MSM and CHS athletics events, and the Spirit Banquet provides the opportunity to recognize the talented groups for their hard work and dedication.

 

“What most people do not realize until they’ve lived it is that Cheer and Rockettes are a year-round sport,” explained Marly Gammill, MSM French teacher and Freshman Cheer sponsor. “These girls never give anything less than their all. They are the hardest workers and have hearts as big as Mount St. Mary. The Spirit Banquet is a great time to thank everyone who makes the spirit year possible.”

 

Dee James, MSM office administrator and Rockettes coach, echoed similar sentiments after the fun celebration. “Last night’s Spirit Banquet was remarkable. The girls looked fabulous, as always, and my heart is full of love from the spirit squads’ members, parents and coaches. I am so blessed to be a part of such an amazing group.”

 

Seniors Elizabeth Cline and Chloe Lay were honored with the evening’s top awards, chosen by the spirit squad coaches. Elizabeth received the Mary Ellen Pate Memorial Award, given to the spirit squad member who best embodies strength of character, discipline, hard work, dedication talent, grace and a little sass. The Carolyn Chalmers Spirit Award was given to Chloe for promoting school spirit at MSM by living the Mercy values of untiring service, hospitality and response to need. Recipients of the evening’s additional awards are listed below.

 

Varsity Cheer Awards:

Team Player: Gracie Connell ’21

Above and Beyond: Beatrice Zargari ’20

Most Passionate: Kennedy Phillips ’19

Transformation: Megan Jennings ’19

Squad Choice / Best All Around: Kennedy Phillips ’19

Coaches’ Choice / Top of the Pyramid: Elizabeth Cline ’19

 

Freshman Cheer Awards:

Squad Choice: Anna Falcon ’22

Most Improved: Carson Sanders ’22

Coach’s Award / Leadership: Mimi Baldwin ’22

 

Rockettes Awards:

Best Dancer: Addie Grace Coleman ’20

Best Kicks: Elizabeth James ’21 and Anna Jewel Schluterman ’21

Purple Pom: Ashley Henry ’19 and Chloe Lay ’19

Rockette of the Year: Addie Grace Coleman ’20

Silver Pom: Ashley Henry ’19

 

View photos of the event, courtesy of Karen Tlapek, at https://flic.kr/s/aHsmBB1f3d.

 

Congratulations to our 2018-2019 Cheerleaders and Rockettes on a wonderful season, and thank you to their fabulous coaches — Kilee Fogleman, Marly Gammill, Dee James, and Allison Caldarera — for their tireless devotion to the spirit program!

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

MSM Hosts Basketball Skills Academy for 4th-8th Graders

Mount St. Mary Academy is once again hosting its popular Basketball Skills Academy for young girls in grades 4-8. Held over the course of six weeks each spring, the program’s goal is to help young players build a basketball skills foundation and love of the game. Instructors focus on fundamental basketball skills including dribbling, shooting, passing, and defense principles. It also includes team and individual competition.

 

The 2019 Basketball Skills Academy runs from April 8 through May 19. Sessions will take place from 5:30-7:00 p.m. on select Sundays and Mondays in the McAuley Center Gym at Mount St. Mary Academy. The cost per participant for the six-week, seven-session program is $125. Space is limited. For more information, contact Coach Lauren Lawrence at (501) 664-8006 or llawrence@mtstmary.edu, or download the flyer and registration form.

Swimming Belles Finish in Top 10 at State Championship

The Swimming Belles ended their season on a high note, finishing 10th overall in the 6A State Swimming Championship held in Bentonville February 22-23. A total of six swimmers from the Belles swim team competed in individual and/or relay events at the meet.

 

Kate Goldtrap ’21 medaled in the 100 Yard Breaststroke, finishing sixth in the state with a time of 1:10. She also finished eighth in the 500 Yard Freestyle. Teammates Victoria Chan ’21 and Mia Patella ’22 competed in individual events, as well. Victoria finished 14th in the 200 Yard Individual Medley, and Mia finished ninth in the 100 Yard Butterfly and 12th in the 50 Yard Freestyle.

 

The Swimming Belles also competed in all three of the state tournament’s relay events. Kate G., Victoria, Mia and Kate Moellers ’20 finished 11th in the 200 Yard Medley Relay and eighth in the 400 Yard Freestyle Relay. Kate M., Victoria, Cecelia Rech ’20 and Katelynn Parker ’22 finished 11th in the 200 Yard Freestyle.

 

Prior to competing in the state championship, the team also had a strong showing at the 6A Central Conference Championship in Conway on Thursday, February 7. The Belles finished sixth overall, and Kate G. placed third in the 500 Yard Freestyle.

 

The team’s coaches acknowledged the girls’ hard work and progress over the course of the season. “I’m so proud of everyone on the team this year,” coach Marissa Blair said. “There were swimmers of various skill levels who pushed themselves to achieve and surpass their goals. Many of them accomplished things they never thought possible.”

 

“We have had a lot of fun this year,” coach Lindann Blair Day added. “I’ve enjoyed watching these girls flourish, and was thrilled to bring 6 swimmers to the state meet for competition. We will miss everyone!”

 

This season represents the last one for Coaches Blair and Day. The two, who both attended Mount St. Mary and swam for the Belles, have served as volunteer coaches for the program for the past 12 seasons. Until she retired a few years ago, their mother had also been helping coach the swim team since 2001, and their oldest sister swam with the Belles, too. “We calculated it the other day, and I am pretty sure a Blair has been involved in MSM Swimming for 25 seasons, and coaching for 18 seasons,” Coach Day said.

 

Congrats to the Belles, and a big thanks to the Blair family for their years of participation in, and service to, Mount St. Mary Academy’s swimming program.

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

MSM Honors Senior Basketball Belles at Season’s End

On Friday, Feb. 22, the Basketball Belles honored their senior members before the team’s final game of the season. Though the Belles ended up losing to the Central Tigers, the effort the girls displayed during the game – and all season long – is worth celebrating.

 

“Basketball is an extremely long season, and these girls did a great job of working hard for the duration of the season,” head coach Lauren Lawrence said. “Each year we are trying to improve on the previous one in order to build up our basketball program, and these girls did just that. Our seniors played a huge role in our progress through their leadership and dedication.”

 

The Belles finished seventh in the 6A Central conference after nearly four months of play. A highlight of the season was a hard-fought conference win against Cabot in early February. “Our defense did a great job of containing [Cabot’s] better players and not giving up a lot of offensive rebounds,” Coach Lawrence said.

 

Congratulations to Coaches Lawrence, Henry and Brumley, and the Basketball Belles!

Left photo credit: Lizzy Yates Photography

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Mount St. Mary Celebrates Bowling Belles’ Season

Mount St. Mary is proud of its Bowling Belles on their successful season, which included postseason action! Coached by MSM science teacher Lauren Naeyeart, the team competed in nine matches during the regular season and finished fourth at the 6A Central Conference Tournament in Cabot on Wednesday, Feb. 6. The top-four finish earned them a spot in the 6A State Tournament in Jonesboro on Friday, Feb. 15, where the team finished seventh overall.

 

Congrats to Coach Naeyeart and this year’s Bowling Belles!

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

MSM Senior Signs with Rhodes Soccer

Finding a college that is a great academic fit and provides the opportunity to continue playing the sport you love at the next level isn’t always an easy task for high school student-athletes. Fortunately for Anya Ranaraja, she found her perfect match. On Thursday, Feb. 21, the senior soccer player, and one of this year’s team captains, was cheered on by family, teammates, friends and coaches as she officially committed to joining the Rhodes College Lynx in Memphis, Tenn., this fall.

 

According to Anya, who is also a member of the Belles basketball team, she starting kicking a ball as soon as she was able to walk and joined her first team, the Purple Dragons, at age 4. “We were the only all-girls team at the time, but that didn’t stop us from being undefeated the majority of our seasons,” she joked.

 

Anya has since competed at the club level with Arkansas United, formerly Little Rock Futbol Club, for the past 10 years, and began playing for the Soccer Belles her freshmen year. Her hard work leading up to high school earned her a spot on the varsity team that year as well as All Conference Team honors. As a sophomore, she was named to the All State Team after helping the Belles finish in second place in their conference. Though an injury prevented Anya from playing in 2018, she remained a dedicated and supportive teammate. This commitment earned her the Mary Drake Award, which honors a Mount St. Mary student-athlete each year for her perseverance in being a leader, an unselfish team player, encouraging and optimistic.

 

The fact that Anya was recruited by colleges comes as no surprise to MSM soccer coach Stephanie Boccarossa. “Anya is an absolute pleasure to watch and to coach,” she said “From the moment she steps on the field, she sets the pace of the game through her attitude, skill and speed of play. Beyond her incredible athletic ability, her passion, work ethic and love of the game are unmatched. She is a one-of-a-kind athlete.”

 

Anya, who admits to wanting to be a doctor for as long as she’s been playing soccer, plans on majoring in biology and attending medical school after college. She said Rhodes met all the requirements she was seeking, including a strong pre-med program, wonderful internship and study abroad opportunities, and a successful soccer program that fit her style of play. “In my college search, I had to make sure that the college I chose was the perfect fit academically as well as for soccer, and Rhodes does both,” she said. “I am so excited about the opportunities I am going to have and the experiences to come. I have seen the relationships and team unity of the Rhodes soccer team, and I can wait to be a part of that!”

 

As for the ways Mount St. Mary has prepared her for success after graduation, Anya credits the excellent academic opportunities and her involvement with Belles athletics. “MSM has taught me how to think analytically through the AP courses I have taken,” she said. “Mount has also taught me how to manage my time between sports and classes, as well as given me leadership skills and experience working with others as a team. I feel beyond prepared for my years at Rhodes.”

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

From Belle to Lady Buc, MSM Senior Signs with CBU Volleyball

A group of family, teammates, friends and coaches joined together in the McAuley Center on Tuesday, Dec. 11, to celebrate another member of the Volley Belles for committing to play at the collegiate level. Brooke H. ’19 signed her letter of intent with Christian Brothers University in Memphis, Tenn., becoming the MSM volleyball program’s second senior this year with plans to continue playing the sport in college next fall. Her teammate, Madeline S. ’19, signed with Judson University in Elgin, Ill., in October.

 

Brooke started playing volleyball in the fourth grade as a member of St. Edward Catholic School’s fifth-grade team. Shortly after that, she joined the Little Rock Juniors volleyball club and has competed on one of its teams for the past seven years. Brooke has also been active in the volleyball program at Mount for four years, playing for the Freshman Mounties her first year at the school and then for the Varsity Belles her remaining three years.

 

According to Brooke, she’s played volleyball at least three times a week since the fourth grade. However, participation in the sport has been worth the demanding schedule. “Volleyball has given me drive and motivates me to perform at my best at all times,” the MSM libero and defensive specialist said. “It has taught me that giving less than 100 percent in anything I do doesn’t feel good inside.”

 

That drive and motivation did not go unnoticed by those around her. “Brooke is one of the most dedicated athletes I have coached,” MSM volleyball coach Lane West said. “She works hard on the court as well as off the court, and she is very focused and determined to succeed.”

 

After years of hard work and training, Brooke is excited to join the Lady Bucs team at CBU next fall. “Competing at the next level has been my goal ever since I started playing,” she said. “I have been looking at options and working on preparing for recruiting since around the seventh grade. I knew it was something I wanted to pursue, and I am so happy I get to play at the Division II level.”

 

In addition to looking forward to playing with her new teammates and coaches, and getting her first taste of “adulting” away from home, Brooke is eager to begin coursework in a unique and relatively new interdisciplinary degree program at CBU. “I am excited about being one of the first students at CBU to major in cybersecurity and digital forensics,” she said. “My future plan is to get a job with the government in this field.”

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Cross Country Belles Celebrate Season’s Good Run, Sophomore’s Conference Championship

The Mount St. Mary Academy Cross Country team completed their season this past Friday, Nov. 2, running a great race at the 6A State Championship Meet at Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs. Staley T. ’21 finished seventh overall out of 130 runners, which earned her All State honors and qualified her for the Arkansas vs. Oklahoma All Star Meet on Saturday, Nov. 10, in Rogers.

 

The team ended their regular season by finishing fourth in the 6A-Central Conference Meet on Oct. 22 at Bishop Park in Bryant. Staley finished first place in the 5000 meter run with a time of 19:24.85, making her this year’s conference champion.

 

Coach Rachel McLemore praised the team’s hard work and progress over the course of the season. “Everyone on the team improved their times from the start of the season and made great strides in their competitive running,” she said. “Thanks to the leadership of our captain, Karina B. ’19, everyone approached every practice with a positive attitude and I think you can see the results in the team’s improvements, especially in the two races leading up to a cold and rainy state meet.”

 

Congrats to Coach McLemore and the Cross Country Belles, and good luck to Staley at this weekend’s All Star Meet. (Read more about Staley and her passion for running in this feature story recently published in Arkansas Catholic.)

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Mount St. Mary Volley Belles Serve up a Strong Season, Bid Farewell to Outgoing Coaches

The Volley Belles recently ended their season, finishing fifth in the 6A-Central Conference. Coached by Lane West and Brendan Britt, a highlight of the year was winning the Silver Division Championship in the Lady Cat Tournament in Conway earlier this month. The team traveled to Bentonville to compete in the Class 6A state volleyball tournament, but experienced a hard-fought loss to Van Buren in four sets. Senior Belles Ava F. and Brooke H. were awarded All Conference honors. Additionally, two seniors have already committed to play in college next fall. Brooke H. plans to join the Lady Bucs at Christian Brothers University in Memphis, Tenn., and Madeline S. has signed with the Eagles of Judson University in Elgin, Ill.

 

This season also represented the last one for Coaches West and Britt. Coach West, who started teaching at MSM in 1995, has helped coach her alma mater for nearly 25 years. Coach Britt has assisted with the Volley Belles since joining Mount’s staff 11 years ago in 2008. Though they’re hanging up their whistles, both will continue teaching at MSM.

 

Congrats to the Belles, and a big thanks to Coaches West and Britt for their years of service to Mount St. Mary Academy’s volleyball program.

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Hard Work Pays off as Mount St. Mary Senior Signs with Judson University

Although Madeline S. ’19 jokes that it was the school’s “sushi Fridays” that sealed the deal for her, it was really the opportunity to continue playing volleyball while obtaining a degree from a noteworthy architecture program that persuaded her to attend Judson University in Elgin, Ill., next fall. On October 29, Madeline officially shared her commitment to join the Eagles in front of a gathering of family, friends and coaches.

 

Madeline began playing volleyball in the fifth grade and immediately fell in love with the sport. She played for MSM as a freshman, but didn’t make the team the following year. However, Madeline continued working hard through her involvement in club volleyball, challenging herself by playing on a 17 National team before turning 16 years old. Previously a hitter, she also started training as a setter and quickly became very skilled in this new position. Her dedication and perseverance paid off. Madeline earned her spot back with the Volley Belles her senior year, will soon begin her third season with 501 Volley (formerly Fatchmo Volley), and looks forward to playing at the collegiate level at Judson next year.

 

“Volleyball has taught me to work hard for everything, have confidence even when others doubt me, and just strive for everything in life to be at its greatest,” Madeline said. “It taught me that if you work hard enough and want it hard enough, anything is literally possible.”

 

MSM volleyball coach Lane West praised Madeline’s work ethic and acknowledged the contributions she made this season. “You could really tell she had been working hard and improving her skills over the past two years as she made a difference for our team this year. Her attitude and her willingness to do anything asked of her were positive for the Belles.”

 

Julia Fahy, head women’s volleyball coach at Judson, also noted Madeline’s work ethic as well as her energy, volleyball IQ and athleticism as qualities that will make her a great addition to the Eagles program. “We are excited to welcome Madeline into our volleyball family here. She has a bright future, and we can’t wait to see what the Lord has in store for her at Judson.”

 

In addition to her excitement over unlimited sushi on Fridays, Madeline plans to enjoy being close to a large city like Chicago, which has a vibrant beach volleyball scene – a sport in which her passion has grown over the past three years. She’s already been accepted into Judson’s innovative architecture program and looks forward to continuing her academic studies in an environment surrounded by smart, successful peers similar to the one she’s experienced at Mount.

 

“I am so very thankful that I discovered Judson University, in which I can continue working hard in volleyball while obtaining a very good degree in architecture,” Madeline said. “Judson is also a Christian school, and I am excited to be able to grow in my faith, as well.”

 

Mount St. Mary Academy, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, develops young women with a moral and intellectual foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Mercy-minded and college-prepared, our students meet the future with wisdom, compassion and integrity.

Cross Country Runner Signs with Hendrix College

Surrounded by family, coaches and friends, Mount St. Mary senior Rachel McGhee made official her commitment to continue her academic career at Hendrix College and run cross country for the Warriors next year. At the signing event MSM Cross Country Coach Chuck Toomer commented that Rachel’s commitment reflects her Personal Record or highest achievement, as all cross country runners strive for and push toward their own personal bests.

 

Although an injury slowed down Rachel’s senior year records, her hopes for college are to get faster and meet people willing to run a marathon with her. While she doesn’t expect to be the fastest runner on the team, she explains that her greatest strengths lie in the long distance runs.

 

“My favorite distance is the 10K,” Rachel said, preferring it to the shorter 5K and track events. She added, “It’s easier for me to know how hard to push myself because my biggest problem with running is that I always have excess energy at the end.”

 

Part of balancing the energy and workload for Rachel next year will be finding the sweet spot in managing her time between her athletic and academic life. She plans to study law at Hendrix College and says that she is equally excited about all of the academic opportunities the college affords, especially the Study Abroad Programs.

 

“I’m really excited to be able to go to a classroom that’s similar to Mount because they’re small and the professors really care about you,” said Rachel. She admitted that when deciding between Notre Dame and Hendrix, the choice ultimately came down to the level of personal attention she received from the staff, coach and ambassadors at Hendrix, and even the President of the College, who greeted her by name during a tour of the campus.

 

Rachel laughs about her initial hesitation to run cross country in college, adding that the sport she loves is one that is used as a punishment in many other sports, though she came around in the end.

 

“I realized that I really do enjoy cross country and the program,” Rachel said. “Being able to continue running competitively and making new friendships through it was an offer I couldn’t refuse.”

 

 

 


 

 

 

Six-Week Basketball Skills Academy for 4th-8th Graders

Spring Basketball Academy at Mount St. Mary Academy gives players in 4th through 8th grades the opportunity to build a basketball skill foundation and love of the game. Instructors will focus on fundamental basketball skills including dribbling, shooting, passing, defense principles, team and individual competition.

 

Sundays & Mondays, April 9 – May 20
MSM McAuley Center Gym, 5:30-7:00 p.m.

 

Monday, April 9
Sunday, April 15
Monday, April 23
Monday, April 30
Sunday, May 6
Monday, May 14
Sunday, May 20

 

Cost: $125 (6-week session)

 

Download a registration form here.

 

For more information, contact Coach Lauren Ramsey at lramsey@mtstmary.edu.

 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

Belles Swim Team Has Strong Showing at State

Competing against some of Arkansas’ best high school swimmers, the Belles finished 11th overall at the 7A/6A Swimming State Championship on Saturday, February 24.

 

Four swimmers from the Belles swim team qualified as a group to compete in the state tournament in the Girls 200 Yard Freestyle Relay and the Girls 400 Yard Freestyle Relay. Evelyn Nick ’18, Kate Goldtrap ’21, Olivia Chambers ’21 and Victoria Chan ’21 finished 10th in the 400 free relay with a time of time of 4:11 and 12th in the 200 free relay with a time of time of 1:54.

 

Freshman Kate Goldtrap finished sixth in the state in the 200 Yard Individual Medley with a time of 2:21. Olivia, Kate and Victoria qualified to swim in individual events in the Girls 200 Yard Freestyle, 500 Yard Freestyle, 100 Yard Breaststroke and the 200 Yard Individual Medley.

 

Congratulations to our Belles!

 


 

 

 

2018 Homecoming and Founders Week Celebrations

Mount St. Mary Academy celebrated Founders Week during the first week of February. The week marks 167 years since the school’s founding Sisters of Mercy opened the school on February 5, 1851, at the request of Arkansas’ first Catholic Bishop.

 

Leading up to Founders Week, the school’s Homecoming basketball game took place at the Catholic High School gymnasium, where the Belles played the Central High School Tigers. MSM basketball team member Lona Ceccherini was crowned 2018 Homecoming Queen as the Mount St. Mary Homecoming Court was announced before the game began.

 

On Tuesday, February 6, the student body gathered in the McAuley Center for the Mount St. Mary Academy Founders Day and Sophomore Pin Mass. As students entered the gymnasium, the Angelus Bell rang out 167 times in honor of the school’s 167-year history. The bell was given to the Sisters by Bishop Andrew Byrne at the school’s first location in downtown Little Rock. As part of the Founders Day Mass, the 10th graders in the Class of 2020 received their Mercy pins, which serve as reminders to the sophomores to live the Mercy values in their everyday lives.

 

Founders Week 2018 ended with a new celebration for parents, alumnae and friends of the school. The first-ever Belles Birthday Bingo was held Friday, February 9, in the McAuley Center gymnasium. Parent volunteers served up grilled hot dogs, a chili bar and birthday cake before the bingo games began. Two fifty/fifty “split the pot” games rewarded two lucky winners, alumnae Debbie Wright Harris ’75 and Marilyn Lenggenhager ’73, and proceeds from the event benefited the Belles Booster Club, which supports student programs and activities at Mount St. Mary.

 

Fore more photos from these events, click the Flickr albums below.

 

Belles Birthday Bingo 2018Founders Day 2018MSM Homecoming 2018

 


 

 

 

Belles seniors share lessons of teamwork

Members of the Belles varsity basketball team recently shared with Arkansas Catholic the highlights and challenges they have experienced as a team and the friendships they have formed after growing up as rivals in the parochial basketball league.

 

 

 

 

This column was first published in the Jan. 20 edition of Arkansas Catholic.

 

 

No ‘I’ in team: Mount seniors’ bond endures adversity

 

Four years ago, Payton Grice, Anne Moellers, Abby Bing­enheimer and Sarah Sagar walked into the Mount St. Mary gym for their first basketball practice.

 

It was summer before freshman year and, with the exception of Bingenheimer and Sagar who grew up in Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in North Little Rock (Marche), none of them wanted anything to do with the other.

 

It’s amazing what off-season workouts can accomplish. Run enough lines, lift enough weights, withstand enough of Coach Lauren Ramsey’s blistering sermons and it changes you. And in the case of this foursome, that bond has been unshakable.

 

For the full article, click here.

 

 

 


 

 

 

MSM student dances in IDO world competition

Christmas came early this year for Mount St. Mary junior Sydney Kellam (center), the Rockettes team manager and former MSM dance team member who was one of 19 dancers picked to be on the first-ever Team USA for a competition known as “the Olympics of dance.”

 

In early December, Sydney traveled with her coach and teammates from the Rock City Dance Center and other states across the country to the International Dance Organization’s World Jazz & Modern Championships in Warsaw, Poland. There they competed against more than 4,000 dancers from 32 nations and 4 continents.

 

Sydney received fifth place for Team USA for her group’s Adult Jazz Dance Formation and Adult Modern Dance Formation routines and sixth in the Adult Division for Small Group Modern.

 

“I loved it. It was a lot of hard work and hours,” Sydney said, explaining that the team practiced six days a week leading up to the competition. She said it was well worth the extra time to hear their country announced as placing fifth and to know they were the first ones in modern and jazz to compete in their division at the IDO World Championship.

 

Sydney described the experience as one she will never forget. “The different styles of dance from all of the countries were so amazing. It was definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

 


 

 

 

Belles’ first D-1 softball recruit signs with Omaha

On November 9, members of the Mount St. Mary softball program joined senior third baseman Susan R. and her family and friends as she completed her commitment to sign a letter of intent to play softball for the “Mavericks” at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. She is committed to Omaha on a Division 1 scholarship under the leadership of head coach DJ Sanchez and assistant coaches Wondrasek and Camilla Carrera. Susan is the first Belles softball player to go to the Division I level.

 

Susan has been a starter for the Mount St. Mary Academy varsity softball program for the past four years. As a junior, the MSM third baseman batted .400 (16-40) with four home runs and drove in 24 runs. She led her high school team in homeruns, RBIs, slugging percentage, as well as on-base percentage, and received 7A All-Conference awards for all of her years of play.

 

Susan has played softball for the past 14 years and has played on several select travel teams. She currently plays for Kim and Martin Poole with Vision Fastpitch, a nationally competitive fastpitch softball team; their 18u Gold team was ranked in the nation’s top 30. Throughout Susan’s career she has won several world series championships, numerous state tournaments, and placed in Triple Crown Sports in Boulder, Colorado, Lake Tahoe, and Florida. She has also competed for the past several years at the PGF in Huntington Beach, California and as well as the JO Cup in California.

 

Susan’s decision to pursue her education and softball career at Omaha followed an unofficial visit to the college last year, where she says she fell in love with everything the school had to offer. She said, “I knew it would be the perfect fit. I appreciate all that Coach Sanchez and Wondrasek have given me and I cannot wait to represent them next year.” Susan plans to major in pre-med and push herself in the classroom as well as on the field.

 

Although the future looks bright for Susan on the college level, she is looking forward to her final season with the Belles and says she hopes to make it to the state tournament this year.

 

“MSM softball has been a big part of my life for the past four years, and I am not looking forward to it ending,” Susan shared. “I have grown so close to my teammates here and have created amazing friendships.”

 

She went on to thank all of her coaches, her trainer, and family and friends for always pushing her and encouraging her to be her best and said her hopes for her last year here are “to have fun and make every game count.”

 

Photos from the Fall Signing at https://flic.kr/s/aHsm5SJqww

 


 

 

 

Opening Pep Rally Kicks Off Fall Sports

Mount St. Mary Academy held the Opening Pep Rally on August 30th to kick off fall sports — cross country, volleyball, tennis and golf — and start off the school year with a show of school spirit. Costumes, chants and a class theme for each grade level and a performance by the seniors united the student body as classes competed for the spirit stick at one the biggest pep rally of the year.

 

Freedom Freshmen, Superhero Sophomores, Holly Jolly Juniors, Slam Dunk Seniors, MSM spirit squads, athletic teams and Student Council kept the energy going and started the school year with a “Slam Dunk!”

 

Athletic Team Schedules may be viewed on the MSM School Calendar.

 

More photos at https://flic.kr/s/aHsm3JiQM7

 

 


 

Summer Camps Elevating Expectations at the Mount

Learning at Mount St. Mary Academy doesn’t stop just because it’s summer time! This week at Volleyball Camp our campers learned and developed volleyball skills with our MSM Belles as their guides. Parents, we hope we see you back this fall for one of the Belles volleyball games, where kids with a camp t-shirt or their team’s uniform will get in free!

 

 

 

College Signing: Belle to play basketball for OBU

Another Belle has signed to play basketball at the collegiate level. Kara R. will be playing for the Ouachita Baptist Tigers in the fall. Kara played four years as point guard for the Mounties and Belles. She was a two-year varsity starter and played in the Central Arkansas Showcase game.

 

Kara is the third Mount St. Mary basketball player this spring to commit to continuing her athletic career at the college level. Mary R. signed to continue her academic career and play basketball for Hendrix College on April 18 and Lizzie A. signed with Lyon College on April 25.

 

For photos from all spring signings, please visit  https://flic.kr/s/aHskV5YBxt

 

Congratulations, Kara!

 

 

June Volleyball Camp for 4th through 9th Graders

Girls entering 4th through 9th grades are invited to attend the Mount St. Mary Belles Volleyball Camp. This day camp will provide instruction to develop individual  basic fundamental volleyball skills.

 

WHEN

June 5-7 ,  2017

 

9:00-11:00am → girls entering 4th-6th grades for Fall 2017

1:00-3:00pm → girls entering 7th-9th grades for Fall 2017

 

WHERE

MSM McAuley Center – 3224 Kavanugh Blvd, Little Rock, AR

 

COST

$65.00 includes camp t-shirt*  (*If registered by due date of June 1)

 

WHAT TO BRING/WEAR

You will need to wear a t-shirt,  shorts, knee pads and tennis shoes.  Refreshments will be sold.

 

INSURANCE

Each camper must be covered by a family’s insurance policy.

 

Space is limited! To register for camp, download the registration form and return by June 1 with cash or check made out to MSM.

 

Belles Basketball Team Competes at State Tournament

Congratulations to our Mount St. Mary Basketball Belles for an awesome season. The Belles won four conference games this season and competed at the State Tournament in Van Buren this week. This season marks the first conference win for the Belles since 2012-2013. We are proud of all these young women, Coach Ramsey, and Athletic Trainer Mr. Stotts. #GoBelles

MSM Basketball Academy for grades 4-8

Spring Basketball Academy at Mount St. Mary Academy gives players in 4th through 8th grades the opportunity to build a basketball skill foundation and love of the game. Instructors will focus on fundamental basketball skills including dribbling, shooting, passing, defense principles, team and individual competition.

 

Sunday & Wednesday, March 29 – May 17*
MSM McAuley Center Gym

 

Grades 4, 5 & 6:   5:30-7:00 p.m.

Grades 7 & 8:   7:00-8:30 p.m.

*will not meet on Sunday, April 16 (Easter) or Wednesday, May 10

 

Cost: $250 (8 week session)

Each player will receive a t-shirt and individual instruction.

 

Download a registration form here.

 

For more information, contact Coach Lauren Ramsey at lramsey@mtstmary.edu.

 

 

 

 

 

SPIRIT BELLES CAMP for girls in grades K-6

Come learn a routine and perform at a Mount St. Mary Varsity Basketball Game!  At Mount St. Mary Academy’s Spirit Belles Camp, girls in kindergarten through 6th grades gain experience in school spirit from the Belles spirit squads.

 

 

Monday, February 20

3:00 – 5:00 p.m., MSM McAuley Center (Gym)
Performances:
K – 2nd, Tues., Feb. 21, MSM Gym, 5:15 p.m. (between JV and Varsity games)
3rd – 6th, Tues., Feb. 21, MSM Gym, 6:00 p.m. (halftime of Varsity game)

 

Cost: $20.00

*T-shirts will not be given out this year. MSM merchandise will be on sale at the camp and performance game.

 

 

Deadline to Register: Friday, February 17th

Download the Kid Camp 2017 Registration Form here.

 

Questions? Email Carrie Burkhead at cburkhead@mtstmary.edu

 

Basketball Skills Academy

Grades 3, 4 & 5

 

Build confidence, skills and love of the game at this Fall Basketball Skills Academy for 3rd, 4th & 5th graders. Instructors will focus on fundamental skills including dribbling, passing, shooting, defense principles and team and individual competition.

 

Fall Basketball Skills Academy is held in the McAuley Center Gymnasium.

November 13, 3:30-5:00 p.m.

*November 20, 1:30-3:30 p.m. (time change for holiday break)

December 4, 3:30-5:00 p.m.

December 11, 3:30-5:00 p.m.

December 18, 3:30-5:00 p.m.

 

$40/participant (includes t-shirt and free admission to MSM home basketball games when t-shirt is worn)

Space is limited. Download the registration form and return to Mount St. Mary Academy. 
(3224 Kavanaugh Blvd., Little Rock, Arkansas 72205)

 

For more information, contact Coach Lauren Ramsey

(501-664-8006 or lramsey@mtstmary.edu)

 

 

 

Pink Out game brings important win for VolleyBelles

The Belles delivered a mighty victory against Fort Smith Northside at the Pink Out volleyball game on October 4. In front of a crowd of parents, classmates and friends decked out in pink to support breast cancer awareness, the varsity team battled it out to a fifth-set win that upset Northside’s four-way tie for first in the 7A Conference. Fort Smith Southside lost on Tuesday as well, so the Belles are set to play the two remaining contenders, North Little Rock and Conway, on October 6 and October 13 at home.