St. Mary freshman striker Jack Lamirande (3) makes the extra effort to get to the ball during a 2016 regular season contest. (Staff Photo)
WESTFIELD – In school sports, seniors tend to deliver leadership and experience, but one young student-athlete is proving he is wise beyond his years.
St. Mary High School freshman Jack Lamirande exuded talent, spirit, and an unmatched enthusiasm for the game of soccer this past fall. For his accomplishments, Lamirande was recently named the MIAA Student-Athlete of the Month for the month of October.
The Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association Student-Athlete of the Month award is presented on a monthly basis to one area male and female student-athlete in grades 9-12 who displays excellence in the areas of academics, athletics, and community service.
“I honestly didn’t think I was going to get much playing time until I walked out on to the field,” Lamirande said. “My team helped me get my goals, all the assists to them.”
Lamirande finished the regular season with 10 goals and five assists as the starting striker for the school’s varsity team.
“(Jack) has established himself as a player the team looks toward when they need a goal in big situations,” St. Mary Head of School Nicole Nietsche said.
JACK LAMIRANDE
The freshman striker even drew praise from his team’s most veteran players.
Said team captain Drew Collins: “Jack was one of the most outgoing and dedicated players on our team. As a freshman, playing on a varsity team, there are always obstacles to overcome. Jack was hardworking, and a leader both on and off of the field.”
Lamirande is also a high honors student who excels in the classroom.
“Jack shows great character, a passion and eagerness to learn,” said his English teacher, Jen Gomes.
Another teacher is in agreement.
Said history teacher Larry Santos: “Jack is always pleasant in class and helps to maintain order as in informal leader. He is respected by his peers in class.”
Outside of sports and the classroom, Lamirande volunteers at youth soccer practices, teaching drills and sportsmanship to budding student-athletes. Other volunteer efforts involve work at the local soup kitchen and senior center.
“He recognizes and understands the importance of not only being an athlete but placing an emphasis on his studies and responsibilities as a student,” Nietchse said of her star pupil.
While the changing of the seasons brought an end to fall sports, the winter weather is not likely to slow Lamirande’s drive. The freshman has his sights set on running up and down the court for the basketball team in the coming days before donning a baseball glove and cleats next spring.
NOTES: Monthly award winners receive a certificate of recognition, and are featured on MIAA.net. Nominations for the award may be submitted by principals, athletic directors, teachers, coaches, guidance counselors or other school administrators. A complete list of award recipients and finalists is available online at www.miaa.net. Go to “Educational Athletics” and “Leadership” to check out the most recent listings.
GOOD SPORTS: The Westfield Technical Academy High School boys’ soccer team was honored for being, well, good sports.
For the third time in team history, Westfield Tech received the Small School Carl Erickson Sportsmanship award in boys’ soccer. The Tigers were recognized for their ongoing display of sportsmanship toward opponents, fans and officials throughout the season.
Westfield Tech, an annual contender and small schools champ, did not receive any penalties or violations during play this past fall season.
RYAN SUMMERS
SUMMERS TIME: University of Louisville senior outfielder Ryan Summers, of Westfield has been selected to serve as a team captain for the 2017 baseball season.
Summers has started in 37 career college games for the Louisville Cardinals and appeared in a total of 108. He played in 42 contests, finishing with a .195 batting average after closing out the 2015 season with a batting average of .226 and 10 stolen bases through 30 starts and 56 appearances.
Lousville is scheduled to open the 2017 season Feb. 17-19 in Clearwater, Florida with a trio of games at Bright House Field. The ACC Atlantic Division defending champion Cardinals will face Alabama State, Maryland, and Ball State in consecutive days.
SHREDDING OPPONENTS TO SMITH-EREENS: Catholic University of America senior wide receiver Billy Smith, of Westfield recently wrapped up his final year of football for the school’s program. Smith, a three-sport athlete at Westfield High (2008-2012) was the Cardinals leading pass-catcher. He also played three sports and graduated from Deerfield Academy in 2013.
Smith is a Business Marketing Major and is scheduled to graduate in spring 2017.
ST. PIERRE COMMITED TO EXCELLENCE: Westfield High School junior Mason St. Pierre still might be more than a year away from graduation, but he has good reason to celebrate.
St. Pierre recently committed to play Division 1 baseball at West Point. Well before that happens, you can see him and his fellow teammates take on all of Western Massachusetts next spring when the Bombers contend for the Division 1 title. With a talented veteran-laden roster, they will likely enter the season as the favorites to win the championship.
Catholic University of America senior wide receiver Billy Smith, right, extends his arms in an attempt to catch the football. (Submitted photo)
