1. June 15th.
Sponsored by the PSAL Wingate Memorial
Fund, Snapple, Nike and Dairy Council, Inc.
Joel I. Klein Santiago Taveras Sabrina King Donald J. Douglas
44-36 Vernon Boulevard, Long Island City, New York 11101 p (718) 707-4200 f (718) 707-4224 www. PSAL.org Chancellor Deputy Chancellor Chief Executive Executive Director

2. Table of Contents
Letter from the Executive Director 3
The PSAL 4
Program 5
Fall Sports 6
Winter Sports 13
Spring Sports 19
PSAL Staff 28
Commissioners 29
History of the Outstanding Athlete Award 30
Outstanding Athlete Award 2008-2009 31
Acknowledgements 33

3. PSAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
W elcome to the 2008-09 PSAL Wingate Fund annual dinner honoring our outstanding
senior scholar athletes.
Whether it is handball, basketball, soccer, lacrosse or, our latest addition, Double Dutch, the
PSAL has been serving the sporting needs of NYC high school students since 1903. There
is a lot of history and greatness in this league and it is my sincere pleasure to add, with your
selections, another chapter to this book.
It took a lot of hard work, both in and out of the classroom, to be the recipient of this most
distinguished award. You should be hugely proud of your accomplishments. I know we are!
Let me also thank your parents, coaches, athletic directors, principals and the PSAL staff for
creating an environment that was able to showcase your skills and talents.
Wishing you all the best that the future has to offer,
Donald J. Douglas
Executive Director, Public Schools Athletic League
3

4. THE PSAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The PSAL Wingate Fund The Public Schools Athletic League would like to thank the following for their
assistance and support:
The PSAL Wingate Fund was founded in 1903 as the Public Schools Athletic League with a com-
bined purpose of financing and administering the athletic programs of the New York City Public
Schools.
PSAL Wingate Memorial Fund
When the school system assumed primary responsibility for these activities, PSAL Inc. and the Gen-
eral George Wingate Fund began to provide modest supplementary funding for the PSAL program.
In 1995, PSAL Inc, and the Wingate Memorial Foundation merged to become the PSAL Wingate Snapple
Fund which continues the tradition of honoring and supporting the PSAL athletes of New York City.
We are pleased to join with the PSAL in presenting the PSAL Wingate Award to New York City’s Beat the Streets
outstanding senior athletes.
The PSAL New York Jets
The New York City Department of Education Public Schools Athletic League (PSAL) is responsible
for organizing and administering the interscholastic sports program for all New York City senior and
alternative high schools. Competition is conducted in accordance with the regulation of the State New York Yankees
Commissioner of Education and the Regulations of the New York City Department of Education.
New York City Parks Department
Nike
American Dairy Association and Dairy Council, Inc.
Sports Foundation
United Federation of Teachers
“I most honestly believe in our league and I feel that in promoting athletics among
the school children of New York Cit y, alone with the sane and the healthy lines it United States of America Cricket Association
has followed, it is per forming a ser vice which is of utmost impor tance.”
President Theodore Roosevelt
Roosevelt,
Vice President, Public Schools Athletic League, August 19, 1905
4 33

5. PROGRAM
Welcome Daniel Harris
Master of Ceremonies
Acknowledgement Rosemarie Romero
PSAL Wingate Memorial Fund
Santiago Taveras
Deputy Chancellor, New York City Department of
Teaching and Learning
Sabrina Hope King, Ed.D.
Chief Academic, Officer Curriculum
And Professional Development
Guest Speaker Jim Sann, Assistant Coach
New Jersey Nets
Greetings Donald J. Douglas
Executive Director, Public Schools Athletic League
Athletic Awards Presentation: Fall
Winter
Spring
Special Awards Presentation Rosemarie Romero
PSAL Wingate Memorial Fund
Concluding Remarks Donald J. Douglas
5
Designed by Galina Arlov Printed in U.S.A

6. FALL SPORTS OUTSTANDING STUDENT ATHLETE
OUTSTANDING FEMALE STUDENT / ATHLETE
2008 – 2009 School Year
The Margaret Wigiser Award honors the outstanding female student-athlete from among all the
PSAL WINGATE Award winners for the 2008 – 2009 school year.
Margaret Wigiser was the Assistant Director of the Public School’s Athletic League, now retired.
Girls Bowling During her tenure, Ms. Wigiser was instrumental in developing both the program design and the
standards for Girls’ Interscholastic Athletics in the New York City Public Schools. The development
Boys Bowling of the guidelines, which later became Title IX of Federal Education Law, fostered equity for women’s’
athletics which, until that time, had not existed.
Girls Cross Country
The PSAL WINGATE MEMORIAL FUND is proud to salute Ms. Wigiser for her leadership in the
Boys Cross Country field of high school women’s’ interscholastic sports.
Boys Fencing
Boys Football OUTSTANDING MALE STUDENT / ATHLETE
2008 – 2009 School Year
Girls Golf The John Glading Memorial Award honors the outstanding male student-athlete from among all
the PSAL WINGATE award winners for the 2008 – 2009 school year.
Boys Soccer
Girls Swimming This award is given in memory of John Glading, former Assistant Director of Health and Physical
Education and Director of the Public Schools’ Athletic League.
Girls Volleyball
John Glading also directed the PSAL program during the development of Junior Varsity sports
programs, sports expansion and the development of both Sport Commissioner and Athletic Direc-
Alternative Boys Basketball tor positions in the program. He also led the development of true New York State Championships
through the creation of the NYSFSHSAA championships in a number of sports. Recognized by
leaders of athletic programs throughout the United States, John was always true to the philosophy
that the PSAL was an integral part of the overall development of all the STUDENT ATHLETES who
competed in the program.
The PSAL WINGATE MEMORIAL FUND is proud to salute our former President through this
award.
6 31

7. PSAL WINGATE AWARDS 2008-2009 FALL SPORTS - Girls Bowling
Kristina Terpo
Sheepshead Bay High School
History of the PSAL – Wingate Outstanding Athlete Award Ressa Levy, Principal
The first ‘PSAL Outstanding Athlete Award’ was presented to outstanding senior male student- Neil Griffenberg, Athletic Director
athletes representing the various PSAL sports, in 1971, at the Iron Horse Steak House. The
Paul Furmansky, Coach
restaurant owners, Horn & Hardart, sponsored the award for nine years and called it the “Iron
Horse Award”. In 1981 the Consolidated Edison Company of New York began its sponsorship Abby Kastin, Commissioner
and moved the Awards Dinner to the Heisman Room of the NYC Downtown Athletic Club. From
1981 -1983, the Award was re-named ‘the General George W. Wingate Outstanding Athlete
Award’ but the ‘Iron Horse Award’ was re-instated in 1984. In 1999, NIKE, Inc. sponsored the Bio: In her four years at Sheepshead, the ever-improving Terpo posted averages of 176, 186, 212 and 225,
Awards Dinner and retained the Iron Horse name. respectively. In addition to rolling scores of at least 200 more than 36 times in her high school career, the
team captain took AP and honors courses and even served as Editor-in-Chief of the school yearbook. In addi-
tion, Terpo did community service for New York State Assemblyman Alan Maisel and worked in the athletic of-
The Pegasus Award was first presented to outstanding PSAL senior female student-athletes in fice at Sheepshead. "Kristina is the best bowler and student-athlete that I have had in 18 years of coaching,"
1981 at the Tavern on the Green Restaurant. The Mobil Corporation was the sole sponsor of Furmansky said. "She will be greatly missed."
the Pegasus Award from its inception until 1998. In 1999, the PSAL/Wingate Memorial Fund
and the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association joined with Mobil in sponsoring the Pegasus
Awards Dinner.
FALL SPORTS - Boys Bowling
For the school year 1999-2000, the PSAL/Wingate Memorial Fund, the Sporting Goods Manu-
facturers Association, and the Sports Foundation were the sponsors for the first joint Iron Horse Antonino D'Angelo
and Pegasus Awards Dinner which was held at the New York Marriott-Brooklyn.
William C. Bryant High School
In the Fall of 2001, the Iron Horse and Pegasus Awards were consolidated and renamed the
“Heisman-PSAL-Wingate Outstanding Athlete Award” and in the Fall of 2007 the Award was Aaron M. Perez, Principal
re-named the “PSAL Wingate Outstanding Athlete Award. The Iron Horse and Pegasus Awards Guy Yacovone, Athletic Director
were the most singular athletic honor that could be bestowed on a New York City Public Schools
Athletic League high school senior student-athlete and the tradition continues. Paul Hornstein, Coach
The PSAL Wingate Awards have a long and rich history, with Awardees going on to even greater Gary Kastin, Commissioner
accomplishments on and off the field. The PSAL is proud of each and every one of our honorees
past, present and future. Bio: As D’Angelo knocked down pins, he built up his reputation as one of the best bowlers in the city. He
placed in the top 10 citywide in each of his first three years, including ranking No. 1 his junior year (222
average). He closed out his senior season with a Queens borough individual championship and ranked third
citywide. But it wasn’t all about personal gains for the captain, who helped the Owls go undefeated in league
play his freshman, sophomore and senior seasons. "Antonino has been a solid leader and a consistent
performer for all his four years," Hornstein said. "He showed a tremendous amount of leadership, especially
when he had to have a lot of the responsibility for the team's success on his shoulders."
30
7

8. FALL SPORTS - Girls Cross Country PSAL COMMISSIONERS
Shannon Browne
Curtis High School
Baseball Robert Pertsas
Aurelia Curtis, Principal
Baseball Asst. David Velkas
Eric Ritzer, Athletic Director Basketball - Boys Mel Goldstein
Joe Sicilian, Coach Basketball Asst. Artie Leitner
Basketball - Girls Shavon Glover
Dwayne Burnett, Commissioner
Bowling - Girls Abby Kastin
Bio: This student-athlete goes the distance when it comes to sports, grades and community service. Browne Bowling - Boys Gary Kastin
is a multiple-year PSAL and Staten Island champion with personal bests of 2:15 in the half-mile, 5:07 in the
one mile and 10:42 in the indoor 3000. A member of the National Honor Society (Arista) and Student Orga- Cricket Bassett Thompson
nization President, this Ivy-league candidate aims to major in liberal arts with an eye on law school. In addi- Cricket Asst. Ricky Kassoon
tion to miles, she has logged more than 200 hours of community service for a variety of causes, making her
a well-rounded person. "I could go on forever about Shannon," her coach said, "so let me say it simply. She Double Dutch Andrea Cherry
is my best athlete. More importantly, Shannon is a young woman who cares about her family, teammates and Cross Country Dwayne Burnett
coaches."
Fencing Boy & Girls Ivan Lee
Football Alan Arbuse
Football Asst. Jerry Epstein
Golf - Boys & Girls Todd Bordonaro
FALL SPORTS - Boys Cross Country Gymnastics - Girls Joanne Lucianno
Joe Brancale Gymnastics - Boys Tom Franqui
Handball - Boys George Diaz
McKee/Staten Island Tech High School
Handball - Girls Michael Trowbridge
Vincent Maniscalo, Principal Lacrosse - Boys & Girls Larry Cantor
James McCarthy, Athletic Director Soccer - Girls Will Stasiuk
Soccer - Boys Vito Rizzi
Bruce Lafeir, Coach
Softball Asimoula (Sylvia) Makresia
Dwayne Burnett, Commissioner Softball Asst. Dawn Guliaro
Bio: The Staten Island champ and city standout, Brancale's specialized in the 2.5 mile and 5K (he ran a Swimming - Boys & Girls Robert Kolonkowski
16:40.89 to win the borough title). Want more impressive numbers? He held a 99.72 average and scored Tennis - Girls Janet Miles
2070 on the SAT while taking on a workload of advanced placement courses in chemistry, physics, world
history, English Language and English history. He even found time to volunteer for the Boy Scouts of America Tennis - Boys Evan Klein
and local churches. No wonder he wastes little time while running."Joe is an incredible athlete," his coach Track, Indoor & Outdoor Dwayne Burnett
said, "but more importantly, he is a tremendous person."
Volleyball - Girls Fred Rodriguez
Volleyball - Boys Shavon Glover
Wrestling Larry Cantor
Alternative Mike Davis
Alternative Program Neil Steinberg
8 29

9. PSLA STAFF FALL SPORTS - Boys Fencing
Sean Dhanraj
New York City Department of Education Brooklyn Technical High School
Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor Randy Asher, Principal
Joel I. Klein, Chancellor
Santiago Taveras, Deputy Chancellor Armando Cataldi, Athletic Director
Sabrina Hope King, Ed. D., Chief Academic Officer Curriculum And Professional Development,
Donald J. Douglas, Executive Director PSAL Bert Yaged, Coach
Ivan Lee, Commissioner
Mike Abernethy Sports Consultant Bio: Dhanraj emerged from fencing class to become a celebrated member of the Brooklyn Technical team. A
captain for two of his three seasons, his skill and leadership ability were always on the mark. In his junior year,
Yolanda Alford Sports Scheduler Dhanraj placed first in the PSAL invitational tournament. This year, he scored victories in 12 of 16 matches to
Lorna Austin Assistant Administrator bring his wins total at BT to 31, not counting tournaments. “In more than thirty years of coaching fencing,” his
coach said, “maybe a handful of fencers have lived up to the standards that Sean has exhibited. I'm proud to
Alan Blanc Eligibility have been his coach and will miss him immensely.”
Elaine Fang Finance
Danny Harris Sports Coordinator
Lance Hermus Sports Coordinator
Diedre Hurst Finance
Maria Lenna Facilitator
Jasmine Marte Receptionist FALL SPORTS - Football
Karl Mehtaji Finance
Torian Phillips
Brenda Morgan Sports Coordinator
Victoria Mondragon Clerical Assistant Port Richmond High School
Larry Munnerlyn Finance Timothy Gannon, Principal
Tyrone Parker Sports Coordinator
Susan Rossi, Athletic Director
Maria Roman Webmaster
Ginger Spencer NCAA Compliance Officer Lou Vesce, Coach
Alan Arbuse, Commissioner
Bio: Phillips didn't start playing organized football until his sophomore year, but made up for lost time in a
hurry. He went on to become one of the best ever at Port Richmond, leading the team to its first ever football
championship. He scored a record-tying four touchdowns in the championship game on his way to Most Valu-
able Player honors. Phillips ran for 1,586 yards his senior year and scored 34 touchdowns, the third-highest
total in city history. Phillips received offers from many well-known programs before committing to Syracuse
and was named to the NYC Coaches Association All-City Football Team. “He was always there when we
needed him,” Vesce said. “The kid just makes plays.”
28 9

10. FALL SPORTS - Girls Golf SPRING SPORTS - Cricket
Alyssa Kuhn Thakur Singh
Tottenville High School John Adams H.S.
John Tuminaro, Principal Grace Zwillenberg, Principal
James Munson, Athletic Director John O’Donoghue, Athletic Director
Tom Tierney, Coach Alex Navarette, Coach
Todd Bordonaro, Commissioner Bassett Thompson, Commissioner
Bio: Alyssa has been a four year starter and team captain for the two-time defending City champion Tottenville Bio: Singh helped start the cricket program at John Adams last year and has been instrumental in the Spar-
Girls Golf team. Over Alyssa’s four years she has compiled a 37-5 match record. Alyssa is a true champion, tans winning 19 out of 24 regular season matches. The all-rounder led John Adams to the city championship
competing in four PSAL Individual Championships and competing in the City Championship final match in all match last year and has them in a running for a city title this year as well.
four years as a starter. As a two-time defending City champion, Alyssa leaves a winning legacy and tradition
that will be difficult to match.
FALL SPORTS - Boys Soccer
Malick Faye
Martin Luther King Jr. High School
SPRING SPORTS - Double Dutch
Stephen Noonan, Principal
Martin Jacobson, Coach Noelita Bowman
Vito Rizzi, Commissioner Dr. Susan S. McKinney School of the Art
Bio: Widely considered the best goalkeeper in the city, Faye lived up to his billing as such by leading the Paula, Holmes, Principal
Knights to a city championship. Long (6-foot-3) and athletic, Faye allowed only four goals in the regular sea-
son, but was at his best in the playoffs. He blanked an offensively gifted Francis Lewis squad in the semifinals Nicole Sledge, Athletic Director
before shutting down Beacon in penalty kicks to win the championship. Sure, the Knights have won 11 titles
in the last 13 years, but Faye is among the best to ever play the position at the tradition-rich school. The Sen- Zakiva, Harris, Coach
egal native was named player of the year by The Daily News and Fiveborosports.com. He earned his coach’s
praise, as well. “Having him back there makes all the difference,” Jacobson said. “He’s one of the best I’ve Andrea K. Cherry, Commissioner
ever had and without a doubt the best in the city.”
Bio: Throughout her high school tenure, Bowman has always maintained a high academic standing. As a
result, she will be the Valedictorian of her senior class and has been accepted to Hampton University, where
she will be attending in the fall. Some of Bowman's other academic and social achievements include being
a member of the National Honor Society, treasurer of Student Goverment, member of the Senior Planning
Committee, captain of the Marching Band's dance team, editor of the McKinney Living Magazine (which is a
partnership with Martha Stewart Living Magazine) and -- oh, by the way -- captain of McKinney's first Double
Dutch team. As captain, Bowman served as both a recruiter and motivator for the team. Noelita helped her
team place in top five several weeks in a row and even when the team did not make it to the Championship,
she kept a positive attitude. "She always showed encouragement to her teammates," said Coach Harris,
"and always tried to push them as well as herself to the next level. I have watched her grow tremendously as
jumper. She worked very hard at acquiring new skills each week."
10 27

11. SPRING SPORTS - Boys Tennis FALL SPORTS - Girls Swimming
Kirsten Guelly
Wei Cheng Lin
Townsend Harris High School
Benjamin Cardozo High School
Kenneth Bonamo, Principal
Gerald Martori, Principal
Wanda Nix, Athletic Director
Gary Nuszer, Athletic Director
James Jordan, Coach
Howie Arons, Coach
Robert Kolonkowski, Commissioner
Evan Klein, Commissioner
Bio: Kirsten’s resume over her four year high school career speaks volumes as to why she is being honored
for this award. A four time PSAL Open Champion in the 100 yard Butterfly, four time NYSPHSAA State
Bio: A true student-athlete with an 85+ average in a rigorous academic program, Lin went 8-0 as a senior and Qualifier , finalist in the 100 Butterfly at State Championships in 2007, current PSAL record holding 200
never lost in 17 career PSAL regular season matches. He finished second in the PSAL after a close loss to Medley Relay team, captain of her high school team, captain of the Flushing YMCA Flyers swim team, YMCA
teammate, Jon Raude, at the PSAL Individual Tennis Championships on the courts at Billie Jean King National National Championship Qualifier and Finalist, Red Cross certified Lifeguard and Professional Rescuer, Honor
Tennis Center. His performance at the National Tennis Center qualified him for the New York State Tennis Roll for all four years of High School and a Member of the Science Honor Society. Kirsten has made her
Championships. Lin will attend the University of Connecticut in the fall. “The best number two in NYC, could mark in and out of the pool and continues to be a leader to her fellow team mates and classmates. Kirsten
play number one anywhere else,” said Coach Arons. playing singles against Fanny . . . even though I have will be attending and swimming at Penn State University in the fall.
lost the last ten straight.”
FALL SPORTS - Girls Volleyball
SPRING SPORTS - Boys Volleyball
Hannah Cassius
Todd Gaugler
Fiorello H. Laguardia High School
Benjamin Cardozo High School
Kim Bruno, Principal
Gerald Martori, Principal
Tom Franqui, Athletic Director
Gary Nuszer, Athletic Director
Arthur Sterenbuch, Coach
Daniel Scarola, Coach
Fred Rodriguez, Commissioner
Shavon Glover, Commissioner
Bio: Cassius wasted no time establishing herself at LaGuardia. In her freshman year, she was recognized as
Bio: Gaugler’s academic averages are impressive: 94 overall; 98 in math, and 96 in science. His perfor- Rookie of the Year, Most Valuable Player and Scholar Athlete. But she didn't stop there, not by a long shot.
mance on the volleyball court is equally as impressive. As an outside hitter, Gaugler led Cardozo to four The super setter, who also excelled defensively, improved her game by playing in the Empire State Games,
Final Four appearances, two PSAL titles, and a runner-up finish. He plans on going to Queens College, in Big Apple Games, and other club teams during her high school career. As Cassius improved, so did the
the honors math and science research program, where he intends to major in mathematics, and hopes to do Athletics, eventually going undefeated and winning their division in her junior year. She made her mark off the
his graduate work at NYU. Off the court and out of the classroom Gaugler has done a lot of volunteer work court, too, as a member of the National Honor Society and Student Body President, among other extracur-
assisting in fixing up his church and making its programs run smoothly. “Todd is one of the hardest workers I ricular activities. "I have been at LaGuardia for over 30 years," her coach said, "and this is the first time I have
have ever had the pleasure of coaching,” said Coach Scarola. “His desire and competitive fire is what led this felt strongly enough to recommend a graduating senior for the PSAL Wingate volleyball award. Hannah has
team to three consecutive finals appearances and two championship banners. His work ethic was a great been an inspiration to her teammates both on and off the court."
example to his teammates, and led his teammates to want to be better players.”
26
11

12. FALL SPORTS - Alternative Boys Basketball SPRING SPORTS - Girls Softball
Wynn Adams Ashley Corrao
John V. Lindsay Wildcat Academy Tottenville High School
Ron Tabano, Principal John Tuminaro, Principal
Andrew Green, Coach James Munson, Athletic Director
Mike Davis, Commissioner Cathy Morano, Coach
Bio: There’s something to be said for the leading scorer on a championship team. Adams led the Wildcats to a Asimoula (Sylvia) Makresia, Commissioner
title while averaging 15 points, seven rebounds and four assists per contest. He was the go-to-guy, no doubt,
but there’s more to his game that just points. As the captain, he led by example on and off the court, making Bio: As a four-year starting catcher, Carrao has led Tottenville to three PSAL titles and a chance at a fourth.
those around him better. Adams, who plans to attend Delaware State University, was an honorable mention Her .426 batting average, 26 runs batted in and 24 runs scored during the regular season propelled the
honor roll student who found time to volunteer at Harlem’s Children Zone. “Wynn was an outstanding athlete Pirates to another championship run. Corrao, who batted .541 as a junior and was named Daily News Player
for Wildcat Academy," his coach said. “He exhibited the qualities of good sportsmanship and character as of the Year, received an athletic scholarship from Dominican College in New Jersey. “Ashley has been a four-
captain of the team.” year starter and has been a big part of the success of this team,” said Coach Morano. “She has really devel-
oped as a player and a team leader over the past four years. She has been a pleasure to coach.”
SPRING SPORTS - Girls Tennis
Julia Xu
Hunter College High School
Randy Collins, Principal
Neil Potter, Athletic Director
Sandra Miley, Coach
Janet Miles, Commissioner
Bio: Xu has won 23 of 25 tennis matches in her career. This year she was 6-0 at first singles and led Hunter
to a berth in the Final Four. Xu finished third in the PSAL Individual Tennis Championships at Billie Jean King
National Tennis Center.
12 25

13. SPRING SPORTS - Boys Outdoor Track WINTER SPORTS
Kameron George
East New York Transit Tech High School
Larry Kalvar, Principal
Paul Tropiano, Athletic Director
Sydney Mcintosh, Coach
Dwayne Burnett, Commissioner
Girls Basketball
Bio: George has a habit of finishing first. As a senior he won the 1600-meter and 3200-meter races at the
PSAL Outdoor Track & Field Championships while leading the Conductors to the PSAL title. He also cap- Boys Basketball
tured Indoor titles in those same events and won a PSAL cross country title earlier in the school year.
Girls Gymnastics
Boys Gymnastics
Girls Indoor Track
SPRING SPORTS - Girls Soccer
Boys Indoor Track
Despina Psomopoulos
Boys Swimming
Bayside High School
Boys Wrestling
Michael Athy, Principal
Joseph Capuana, Athletic Director Alternative Girls Basketball
Joe Carrado, Coach
William Stasiuk, Commissioner
Bio: GOAAAAALLL!!!!!! One of the top scorers in the PSAL, Psomopoulos found the back of the net 88
times during her four years. She guided the Commodores to a remarkable 43 wins, zero losses and four
ties in regular season matches. The National Honor Society member and Greek Club participant will attend
Albany. “Despina is a tremendous soccer talent,” said Coach Carrado. “She has speed, skill, and determina-
tion to play at a high level. Despina is great person and a wonderful teammate.”
24 13

14. WINTER SPORTS - Girls Basketball SPRING SPORTS - Boys Lacrosse
China Crosby Joseph Mavrakis
Manhattan Center High School New Dorp High School
David Jose Jimenez, Principal Deirdre DeAngelis, Principal
Charles Jackson, Athletic Director Richard Rucireto, Athletic Director
Jaywana Bradley, Coach Brian Murphy, Coach
Shavon Glover, Commissioner Larry Cantor, Commissioner
Bio: In one of the more memorable games of the year, this quick, pass-first guard play helped the Lady Rams Bio: With 37 goals during the regular season, Mavrakis truly has a nose for the net. He also knows how to
snap Murry Bergtraum's 73-league winning streak. But that's just one example of how much the Virginia- help his team win. Mavrakis led New Dorp to an undefeated season and its first PSAL lacrosse title. He
bound guard meant to her team. Crosby led the Lady Rams all the way to Madison Square Garden her junior scored four goals in the title game overtime win over Midwood. playing singles against Fanny . . . even though
season averaging 18 points and five assists per game. Although the numbers may suggest a slight drop off I have lost the last ten straight.”
her senior year (13 points and four assists per game), those who watched her play knew she was a differ-
ence-maker. Crosby was the only city female player selected this year to play in the McDonald's All-American
game. During her basketball career under coach Bradley, China has scored 1,293 points, 521 assists, 404
rebounds and 354 steals. China accomplished the following goals: All-Borough four years, All-City three
years and All-State three years. “China has made a name for herself on the national level,” Bradley said. “and
made those around her better."
SPRING SPORTS - Girls Outdoor Track
WINTER SPORTS - Girls Basketball
Kadian Dunkley
Shanee Williams
Clara Barton High School
Murry Bergtraum High School
Richard Forman, Principal
Barbara Esmilla, Principal
Matthew Meyerson, Athletic Director
Julia Taylor, Athletic Director
Hollie Denny-Bishop, Coach
Ed Grezinsky, Coach
Dwayne Burnett, Commissioner
Shavon Glover, Commissioner
Bio: Dunkley is no stranger to success on the track. At the 2009 PSAL Outdoor Track & Field Champion-
Bio: It's easy to get lost in the shuffle at Bergtraum. The Lady Blazers have won 11 of the last 13 city champi- ships she finished in the top 10 in three events: 400-meter Intermediate Hurdles (2nd), 400-meter Dash
onships and produced numerous all-city players. But Williams, a McDonald’s All-American finalist, still stands (6th), and 4x100 meter Relay (10th). In Cross Country she won the PSAL Individual title and finished second
out as a fearless defender and sharp-shooting guard. She finished her career at Bergtraum with more than at the Mayor’s Cup. As a junior she won the 2000-meter steeplechase at the 2008 PSAL Outdoor Track
1,500 career points and was named a 1st team All-City player by the Daily News (2008, 2009) and MSG & Field Championships. She’ll continue running at South Plains College in Texas where she will also study
Tri-State first-team player in 2009. Plus, Williams was known as a clutch player. She averaged 15 points and business. When not dominating the track, Dunkley enjoys volunteering with the New York Road Runners
4.5 rebounds per game this year in the regular season, only to improve her numbers in the playoffs (20 points Club and Alpha Pre-school and participating in charity events such as the Prospect Park Breast Cancer Walk.
and 6.6 rebounds). "She's the best in the city as far as I'm concerned," coach Grezinsky said. "Look at her “You are unbeatable, when you are focused,” said Coach Denny-Bishop.
numbers and when she gets them. She's a leader in more ways than one."
14 23

15. SPRING SPORTS - Boys Handball WINTER SPORTS -Boys Basketball
James Liu and Brendon Yuen Lance Stephenson
Midwood High School Abraham Lincoln High School
David Cohen, Principal Ari Hoogenboom, Principal
Mary Anne Elder, Athletic Director Renan Ebeid, Athletic Director
Jennifer Rogers, Coach Dwayne Morton, Coach
George Diaz, Commissioner Mel Goldstein, Commissioner
Bio: Liu and Yuen teamed to win more than 96 percent of their PSAL matches over the last two seasons as Bio: Just say the name Lance and sports fans around these parts know who you are talking about. Stephen-
the Hornets won consecutive city titles. The teammates won a doubles title in 2008. Liu, who will be attend- son will go down in history as one of the city’s greatest high school basketball players ever, an amazing feat
ing Hunter, and Yuen, who is going to Syracuse, excelled in the medical science program at Midwood. “Bren- considering the wealth of talent that has come out of this hoops hotbed. His list of accomplishment is long,
dan is one of the most consistent and hardworking players I have ever coached, while James has emerged as but his New York State scoring record of 2,946 points and unprecedented four straight city titles ranks right
an exemplary team leader,” said Coach Rogers. “They have both been a tremendous asset to the Midwood at the top. His skills went unmatched, but he took his game to the next level when he matured into a true on-
handball team and have played a key role in the team's overall success. James and his partner Brendan are the-court leader. The choice to select this future pro for recognition was a slam dunk. "I don't know what else
the heart and soul of Midwood's team.” he can do," Lincoln coach Tiny Morton said. "He's the best I've ever had at Lincoln."
WINTER SPORTS - Girls Gymnastics
SPRING SPORTS - Girls Lacrosse Karen Yu
Kiara VanBrackle Benjamin Cardozo High School
Beach Channel High School Gerald Martori, Principal
David Morris, Principal Gary Nuszer, Athletic Director
Laurie Harris, Athletic Director Melissa Nachman, Coach
Sam Innes, Coach Joanne Luciano, Commissioner
Larry Cantor, Commissioner Bio: A team captain and Most Valuable Player in both her junior and senior year, Yu's credentials alone are
worthy of recognition. She made huge contributions to this year's championship season and placed third
Bio: Luckily VanBrackle is good in math as it helps her tally all the goals she scores on the lacrosse field. all-around at the NYC individual championships. But when you consider that she received the Sportsmanship
She netted 25 goals during the regular season and another 11 during the playoffs, including seven against Award at State Championships, too, it's obvious Yu's character is also of championship quality. "Karen has
Cardozo. Her two most important goals helped the Dolphins win the PSAL title with a 6-5 victory over No. been a vital member of the gymnastics team her entire four years at the school," her coach said. "She will be
1 seeded Tottenville. The three-year captain and member of the 2008 Empire State Games team that repre- sincerely missed by her teammates and myself because there are few student athletes that embody her moti-
sented NYC will study math at Syracuse. “Kiara willingly takes on the toughest defensive assignments and vation, desire and contagious attitude."
delivers,” said Coach Innes. “She prides herself on defense, yet has an undeniable nose for the goal. Kiara is
a true captain and leader on and off the field.”
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16. WINTER SPORTS - Boys Gymnastics SPRING SPORTS - Boys Golf
Ben Antoine
Nicholas Homan
Long Island City High School
McKee/Staten Island Tech
William Bassell, Principal
Vincent Maniscalo, Principal
Penny Bellas, Athletic Director
James McCarthy, Athletic Director
Ken Achiron, Coach
Janice Moschetta, Coach
Tom Franqui, Commissioner
Todd Bordonaro, Commissioner
Bio: Antoine is used to being number one. His name even comes up first on his team’s alphabetical roster.
But he has worked hard for his top spot. Long Island City has won the city title the last three years, while Bio: It’s hard to think of an important golf match played in the PSAL the last three years without Nicholas Ho-
Antoine has taken home the individual honors (he collected 17 of 18 gold medals). His teammates voted him man on the course. The three-year captain led MSIT to three playoff appearances, including a runner-up fin-
most valuable each of those championship years. His desire to be the best goes beyond gymnastics. Antoine, ish this season. As a four-year player he qualified for the PSAL Individual championships four times and New
a member of Arista, has been accepted to Carnegie Mellon with a 96 average. He’s also done community York State Golf championships three times. Homan plans to attend University of Delaware. “In my twenty-five
service with senior citizens and the LIC Leadership Program. “Ben knows his abilities and works to maximize years in coaching five different high school sports, I have never been as impressed by one athlete; as I am
his potential,” Achiron said. “He is willing to put in the time to do the right things at practice. It's been a real with Nick Homan,” said Coach Moschetta. “Nick is the perfect example of what it really means to be a true
pleasure to coach him and I look forward to his continued success.” athlete and team leader. He goes well above and beyond what is expected of him and in doing so, has been
a source of great inspiration to his team for the past four years.”
WINTER SPORTS - Girls Indoor Track
Tessa West
Benjamin Cardozo High School SPRING SPORTS - Girls Handball
Gerald Martori, Principal Fanny Ruan
Gary Nuszer, Athletic Director Brooklyn Technical High School
Gail Emmanuel, Coach Randy Asher, Principal
Dwayne Burnett, Commissioner Armando Cataldi, Athletic Director
Bio: As a freshman, West took on the roll of anchor leg for the Benjamin Cardozo Millrose championship Paul Hoftyzer, Coach
4x400 relay. That was just the beginning of the road for this talented and versatile runner. She has met the
qualifying standard for every city, state and national Championship from her freshman season to the present, Michael Trowbridge, Commissioner
lettering all four seasons. With her individual accomplishments came team success. West led her team to a
three City Championship victories. She was a member of the three-time SMR National Champions at the In- Bio: Ruan is no stranger to winning handball matches as she won 31 in the regular season and another 11 in
door Nationals and led off for a championship victory in the 4x00 relay at the 2009 Indoor Nationals. West fin- the playoffs during her career. As a senior she led the Engineers to an undefeated regular season and runner-
ished her final high school campaign ranked No. 2 in the PSAL in the 600 meter run and No. 3 in the 400. In up spot in the PSAL. Her dominance on the court sparked PSAL team titles in 2007 and 2008. In outside
addition, West maintained an average of 3.6 and will be attending Temple University this fall on a full athletic tournaments Ruan has won numerous individual and doubles titles. When not winning handball matches she
scholarship. “Tessa has been an inspiration to the team from the first day she entered Benjamin Cardozo,” her works several days a week with elementary school children, teaching them mathematics and English and as-
coach said. “Her hard work, dedication and desire to achieve have enabled her to be a fine example of a good sisting them with their homework. Ruan was accepted by Stony Brook, Albany and Baruch. “She is always
student athlete. She will always be remembered as one of Cardozo's best” demonstrating good sportsmanship and discipline,” said Coach Hoftyzer. “The younger players on the team
look up to Fanny. Fanny is one of the most talented and disciplined athletes I have ever known. I still enjoy
playing singles against Fanny . . . even though I have lost the last ten straight.”
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17. SPRING SPORTS - Boys Baseball WINTER SPORTS - Boys Indoor Track
Darryl Bradshaw
Nolan Becker
Sheepshead Bay High School
Stuyvesant High School
Reesa Levy, Principal
Stanley Teitel, Principal
Neil Griffenberg, Athletic Director
Martha Singer, Athletic Director
John Padula, Coach
John Carlesi, Coach
Dwayne Burnett, Commissioner
Robert Pertsas, Commissioner
Bio: His specialty is the 55 meters (he’s never lost a PSAL race), but he's special in more ways than one.
Bio: Becker capped off a brilliant career by striking out all 18 batters he faced in a 6-inning perfect game Bradshaw is a six-time All-American and two-time PSAL MVP. Aside from dominating the 55, he was a mem-
earlier this season against Manhattan Bridges. He was dominating on the mound this year striking out 68 ber of the 4x200 team that won the city championship and placed second at states and nationals. He was
batters in just 32 innings. At the plate he hit .326 and drove in 21 runs. Becker’s overall performance helped named 2008 Daily News Athlete of the Year, but his resume as a student is equally impressive. Bradshaw
the Hitmen win the Manhattan West Division and qualify for the playoffs. In a first round 1-0 loss to Samuel achieved honors in law, sports medicine and English and is interested in majoring in pre-law or political sci-
Gompers, he struck out 11 and gave up just two hits. Becker will play baseball in the Ivy League next year at ence in college. In addition, Bradshaw has taken part in Walk for Cancer as well as toy and coat drives. Do
Yale. you see what his coach sees? "Darryl is a great leader," Padula said, "and a very hard worker."
SPRING SPORTS - Girls Fencing WINTER SPORTS - Boys Swimming
Rupinder Garcha
Michael Caputo
Townsend Harris High School
Curtis High School
Kenneth Bonamo, Principal
Aurelia Curtis, Principal
Wanda Nix, Athletic Director
Eric Ritzer, Athletic Director
Debra Michlewitz, Coach
Marie Neto, Coach
Ivan Lee, Commissioner
Robert Kolonkowski, Commissioner
Bio: During her off-season the Haverford College-bound Garcha helped coach, manage, and train the boys’
team. In her own season she won 12 of 16 regular season bouts and led the Hawks to a Final Four appear- Bio: With Scholastic All-American honors and seven city championship gold medals, you might say Caputo's
ance and a Bronze Medal. As a senior she was second at the 2009 PSAL Invitational and won the Queens high school career went swimmingly. He collected 12 Staten Island gold medals and numerous Curtis re-
Division championship. The solid ‘A’ student in all disciplines is also an active participant in Amnesty Inter- cords: The 200 Yd. medley, 200 Yd. freestyle, 200 Yd. individual medley, 100 Yd. butterfly, 500 Yd. freestyle,
national. “Rupinder embodies the best of a great captain,” said Coach Michlewitz. “She leads; she pushes 200 and 400 Yd. freestyle relay. It’s no wonder Curtis had a combined league record of 32-1 in his time at the
herself to achieve higher goals.” school. A two-time team captain and Most Valuable Swimmer, Caputo also made a difference outside of the
pool. He organized and supervised the Coach George Vinet Swim-a-Thon for Cancer, which raised $8,500.
In addition, he served as volunteer swim coach for a Staten Island grammar school swim league. A four-year
state qualifier, Caputo now has his sights set on swimming in college and majoring in mathematics.
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18. WINTER SPORTS - Wrestling SPRING SPORTS
Brian Traub
Petrides High School
Joanne Buckheit, Principal
Michael Duffy, Athletic Director
Girls Fencing
Michael Blyth, Coach
Larry Cantor, Commissioner
Boys Golf
Bio: Traub finished his high school career with a record of 147-18, best in New York City. He ended up Staten Girls Handball
Island's all-time wins leader, earning him Staten Island Advance All-Star honors. Traub took home his third
Mayor’s Cup title and his fourth PSAL individual title to close out his career in style. Plus, he went eight-for- Boys Handball
eight during the regular season and three-for-three in the playoffs, as the Panthers won their second straight
city title. “Brian was the ultimate competitor,” Blyth said, “who worked tirelessly to improve himself throughout
his career.” Girls Lacrosse
Boys Lacrosse
Girls Outdoor Track
WINTER SPORTS -Alternative Girls Basketball Boys Outdoor Track
Simaya Harding
Girls Soccer
Marcy Avenue Campus
Girls Varsity Softball
Elaine Lindsey, Principal
Kenneth Fair, Athletic Director Girls Tennis
Thomas Mobilia, Coach Boys Tennis
Mike Davis, Commissioner
Boys Volleyball
Bio: As captain of the Marcy Avenue Campus girls’ basketball team the past two years, Harding led her team
to two Alternative Girls basketball championship game appearances, including a title this season. She aver- Cricket
aged 18.5 points and led the league in assists per game and free throw percentage during the championship
run. Harding, who has interned at Catholic charities and served as a peer counselor, hopes to transfer her
success on the court to the medical field by becoming a nurse. “Simaya is a smart, hard-working student- Double Dutch
athlete who has been the leader of the Marcy Avenue Campus girls basketball team for the past two years,”
said Coach Mobilia. “In her junior and senior years she was the solo captain and one of the main reasons that
our team has been successful the past two seasons. Simaya led the team to two straight PSAL championship
games appearances - winning the championship in 2009.”
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