Santana Jackson

May 27, 2024

We wrap up the Athlete of the Week series for the 2023-24 school year with modified baseball player Santana Jackson.  Coach Ryan McKenna says that the eighth grader has shown tremendous improvement this season.  “Santana has been put in multiple tough situations on the mound when pitching and at the plate when batting, and has risen to the occasion every time.”  Coach says that Santana consistently leads by example and pushes the team to do their best.

Congratulations, Santana! 

Veronica Chavez

May 20, 2024

Congratulations to Veronica Chavez Granillo who is our Tuxedo Tornadoes Athlete of the week for May 20! The senior just finished her final softball season with a strong showing, executing some big plays including two stolen bases and scoring a run at home. Coach Jenna Park says “Roni” is a leader both on and off the field. “She has great energy and spirit, and is consistently a positive force on the team.” Coach Park has coached Roni for the past five years in multiple sports and will miss her after she graduates. “She is a great athlete and person- she will do well in whatever she tries.”

Brooke Bower

May 13, 2024

Congratulations to Brooke Bower, who is our Tuxedo Tornadoes Athlete of the Week for the week of May 13!

Modified softball coach Jaime Eckstein says that even though playing the position of pitcher is new to Brooke, she has embraced the challenge and risen to the occasion. “Brooke’s mental toughness and willingness to improve sets a great example for the rest of the team.”

Keep up the great work, Brooke!

Deborah Paul and Brydan Fanas

May 6, 2024

This edition of Athlete of the Week is a seventh grade sweep! Congratulations to Deborah Paul and Brydan Fanas who are the Tuxedo Tornadoes Co-Athletes of the Week for the week of May 6! 

Modified softball coach Jaime Eckstein commends Deborah for her quick and assertive defensive play that put her team in a great position to score during a recent game.  “She got on base and then stole every base on consecutive pitches, allowing us to earn some needed RBI’s.” 

Modified baseball coach Ryan McKenna says that Brydan is a pleasure to coach, shows great enthusiasm, and is known to make the team smile.  As a seventh grader new to the team “he has shown great improvement in a short timeframe, especially at the plate where he has recorded multiple hits and runs scored.”

Keep up the great work Brydan and Deborah! 

Emma Keating and Casey Juance

April 22, 2024

Congratulations to Emma Keating and Casey Juance who are the Tuxedo Tornadoes Co-Athletes of the week for April 22!
Casey has been the starting pitcher for the JV Softball team for two years. Coach Jenna Park says that the junior’s talents extend beyond the mound, as demonstrated by the three hits she has had in recent games. “Casey is a leader and team player, stepping in whenever necessary - she also plays the position of catcher when needed.”
Modified Softball Coach Jamie Eckstein applauds Emma for her positive attitude and hustle that sets a great example for her teammates. As the team’s catcher, the eighth grader has caught every pitch in every inning this season. Coach Eckstein says “her commitment to improvement and supporting the pitchers as they navigate tough situations is admirable.”
Keep up the great work, Casey and Emma!

Tyler Marsh and Will Sandak

April 15, 2024

Our Tuxedo Tornado Co-Athletes of the week for April 15 have stepped up to the plate - literally and figuratively!

Modified Baseball coach Ryan McKenna says that eighth grader Tyler Marsh demonstrates strong leadership to his younger teammates, making sure everyone is on the same page and focused while still having fun. “Tyler is committed to developing his skills, and his statistics prove his success. In the team’s recent game he led the lineup in the first batting spot, collecting multiple hits, bases and RBI's.”

Sophomore Will Sandak plays the positions of pitcher and catcher for the JV Baseball team, and coach Matt Van Houten credits the player’s success to his dedication to the sport. “Will gives his all at practice every day. He has put in the time to improve his offense at the plate as well as his defense in the field.”

Way to go, Tyler and Will! 🏆🌟👏

Nassenaba Berthe and Max Mitchell

February 26, 2024

Congratulations to Nassenaba Berthe and Max Mitchell who are the Tuxedo Tornadoes Co-Athletes of the Week for the week of February 26!

Nassie has proven herself to be a great teammate, says girls modified basketball coach Jaime Eckstein.  The eighth grader demonstrates great commitment, and “her hustle and spirit are a great inspiration for the team.” 

Max is a hard worker, and has shown steady improvement over the past few games as a result. The eighth grader “motivates his teammates to try harder and strive to be better,” says boys modified basketball coach Julius Floyd.

Kudos to Nassie and Max! 

Senior Athletes

February 12, 2024

Senior athletes from the boys and girls basketball and wrestling teams are being honored as the Tuxedo Tornadoes Athletes of the week for February 12!  The junior varsity and varsity winter sports seasons wrapped up before students headed home for President’s break, and Athletic Director Marco Margotta was very happy with the teams' performances.  “I am incredibly proud of the time and commitment that these athletes displayed. The  seniors are committed to various activities and are still able devote time to athletics which is a good example for our younger athletes, and their contributions to the success of our winter sports program were significant.” Congratulations to our senior winter athletes!  (Not pictured:  Emaan Malik and Sam Kainatsky.)

Tyler Marsh

February 5, 2024

Congratulations to eighth grader Tyler Marsh who is our Tuxedo Tornadoes Athlete of the Week for the week of February 5!  The Modified Basketball player has shown tremendous improvement this season and has proven himself to be a good teammate, says Coach Juilus Floyd. “He is a presence in the middle of the defense, rebounding and helping the team be successful.”  Keep up the great work, Tyler!

Alondra Sarabia

January 29, 2024

Alondra Sarabia is our Tuxedo Tornadoes Athlete of the Week for the week of January 29, 2024! Coach Matt Van Houten commends the JV Basketball player for her tenacity and drive, saying she gives her all at every practice and always plays hard.  “Alondra is a great teammate and a pleasure to coach.”  Congratulations and keep up the great work!

Jake Sandak and Logan Saari-Poznanski

January 22, 2024

Congratulations to Jake Sandak and Logan Saari-Poznanski who are our Tuxedo Tornadoes Co-Athletes of the Week for the week of January 22, 2024!

A senior on Varsity Basketball, Jake is a hard worker and shows great dedication to the team.  Coach Matt Takeuchi says  “Jake demonstrates his commitment by always coming to practice - his team spirit and positive attitude are commendable.”

JV Basketball coach John Cernuto praises Logan’s commitment and effort. He explains that the sophomore “proved his grit and resilience during the last two JV Basketball games, scoring more points than any of his teammates.”

Way to go Jake and Logan! 

Nerla Paul

January 8, 2024

Congratulations to Nerla Paul who is our Tuxedo Tornadoes Athlete of the Week for the week of January 8! Modified basketball coach Jamie Eckstein says the eighth grader helped lead the team to a victory against James I. O’Neill High School last week with her tenacious rebounding and drives to the basket.  Nerla demonstrates great leadership on and off the court, encouraging her teammates by talking about practice and working hard to improve. “Winning our first game was a great way to kick off the season, and Nerla led the way.” Well done! 

Justin Membreno and Sam Kainatsky

January 1, 2024

Justin Membreno and Sam Kainatsky are kicking off the new year as the first Tuxedo Tornadoes Co-Athletes of the Week for 2024!  

Sam has had a strong start to his season on the JV Wrestling team, achieving two wins by pin.  Coach Bill Brunner says the senior’s hard work in practice has paid off, demonstrated by his current record of 2-0.  “Sam's background in jiu jitsu has enabled him to pick up wrestling moves quickly. I am looking forward to seeing him compete in the next match on January 19 at Chester Union High School.”

Justin has shown his JV Basketball comrades that he is a true team player.  Coach John Cernuto says the junior demonstrates tremendous hustle and effort.  “Justin did a great job of supporting his team during the recent game at S.S. Seward Institute.”

Congratulations Sam and Justin! 

Veronica Chavez Granillo and Rachel Marin

December 11, 2023

Veronica Chavez Granillo and Rachel Marin, co-captains of the JV Basketball team,  are our co-athletes of the week for the week of December 11!  

Coach Matt Van Houten says that in the most recent game against S.S. Seward Veronica scored 8 points, leading the team in scoring.  "She consistently  shows up in practice and gives 100% effort, while helping her teammates understand concepts and drills.” Congratulations, Veronica! 

Although Rachel is new to basketball, Coach Van Houten says she comes to practice every day ready to learn and improve.  “Rachel takes her role as captain seriously.  She has her teammates' backs and offers encouragement whenever she feels it is useful.”  Well done, Rachel!

Anthony Arone

December 4, 2023

Congratulations to senior Anthony Arone, our Tuxedo Tornadoes Athlete of the Week for December 4! Coach Matt Takeuchi says the Varsity Basketball player shows great energy and hustle. “In Varsity's first two games last week he displayed outstanding defense and great effort in each game.” Nice job Anthony, Keep up the hard work! 

Girls Varsity Volleyball team

November 6th, 2023

Congratulations to the Tuxedo Tornadoes Varsity Volleyball team who are the Athletes of the Week for the week of November 6! The Lady Tornadoes beat Shelter Island School in the Section XI State Regional final on November 11, and are headed to the State Final Four!

On Saturday, November 18, the team will take on Section 2 champion Lake George High School at the Cool Insuring Arena in Glens Falls, NY at 7:15 pm in the semifinal game. In the event of a win, the girls would move on to the State Championship game on Sunday, November 19 at 2pm.

Coach Hines and Coach Schweitzer are very proud of the team, saying “They have worked tremendously hard this season and deserve every title they have earned. Having well-minded, optimistic athletes makes it a joy to coach, and we love working with them every day.”

Way to go, girls!

Logan Saari-Poznanski

October 30, 2023

Congratulations to George F. Baker sophomore Logan Saari-Poznanski, our Tuxedo Tornadoes Athlete of the Week for October 30!  Logan led the Varsity Cross Country team at the recent Sectional meet with a time of 20:40. Coach Billy Brunner says Logan has shown tremendous work ethic since joining the team this year, quickly becoming the squad's fastest runner. “If he sticks with it and he continues to work hard, big things are on the horizon.”  Keep up the great work, Logan!

Devin Kearney & Brandon Marin

October 23, 2023

Congratulations to our Tuxedo Tornadoes Co-Athletes of the Week for the final week of October - Devin Kearney and Brandon Marin.  Seventh-grader Devin and eighth-grader Brandon play on the modified soccer team coached by John Cernuto, who speaks highly of their approach and team spirit.  “Devin and Brandon are always hustling.  They have a great attitude and want to do their best for the team.”  

This year marks the return of modified soccer to #TUFSD after a brief hiatus.  The season had the Tornadoes competing against neighboring Orange County schools and sister school Green Meadow.  The revival of modified soccer offers younger students the opportunity to be involved in a team sport, which research has shown to help in the development of critical thinking, communication skills and self-confidence.

Vanessa Duarte

October 16, 2023

Congratulations to Vanessa Duarte, our Tuxedo Tornadoes Athlete of the Week for October 16!

The senior led the volleyball team to three victories with 52 assists, five kills, 23 digs, 51 service points and 26 aces. A five-year varsity player, Coach Hines says “Vanessa has been a reliable competitor the entire season, and her career at Tuxedo.  I am extremely proud of her determination and dedication to the sport.”   Kudos, Vanessa!  

Emilia Kainatsky

October 9, 2023

Emilia Kainatsky is our Tuxedo Tornadoes “Athlete of the Week” for October 9!  A freshman on the Varsity Cross Country team, Emilia's hard work and dedication to the sport has not gone unnoticed by her coach, Billy Brunner. He explains, “She arrives to practice every day eager to start and ready to work on improving her times.”  Emilia has set lofty time goals that she hopes to achieve in the coming weeks at the county and section cross county meets. “I have no doubt that her work ethic will allow her to crush those times,” said Coach Brunner.

Congratulations, Emilia!

Zyaire Velez

October 2, 2023

Congratulations to Zyaire Velez, our Tuxedo Tornadoes “Athlete of the Week” for October 2!  In his first season of modified soccer, ninth grader Zyaire continues to perfect his technique and skill. Coach John Cernuto says, “Zyaire has shown a lot of hustle and great team spirit in each game so far this season.” Keep up the great work, Zyaire! 

Arianna Saari-Poznanski and Logan Mascaro

September 25, 2023

Congratulations to our Tuxedo Tornadoes Co-Athletes of the Week for the Week of 9/25 -Arianna Saari-Poznanski and Logan Mascaro!

Although this is Arianna’s first year playing volleyball, she has shown to be a positive influence on the modified team, leading the team to its first double header victory against Chester. Coach Jenna Park says that the seventh grader “encourages teammates, is dedicated and coachable.” Way to go, Arianna!

Logan Mascaro is playing modified soccer for the first time as an eighth grader, but he has already contributed greatly to the spirit of his team. Coach John Cernuto reports “You can always catch Logan hustling, cheering on his teammates and being a helping hand on and off the field.” Kudos, Logan!

Madison Marsh

September 18, 2023

Junior Madison Marsh is our Tuxedo Tornadoes Athlete of the Week for September 18!

 As Middle Hitter on Varsity Volleyball, Madison recently had a breakout game against John S. Burke Catholic High School, tallying 18 kills and 7 blocks and leading the team offensively.  Coach Michelle Hines says Madi is a presence on the floor and a hype woman for the team.  “She is consistently optimistic, encouraging both her team as well as JV. We are lucky to have someone like her in our program, as she is a great role model for the JV and modified players.”  

Congratulations, Madi!

Camila Granillo

September 11, 2023

Camila Granillo is our Athlete of the Week for the week of September 11! Camila is a sophomore on the JV Volleyball team, and has performed very well in games as a setter. Coach Hines said “Camila had a great week behind the service line, providing many aces for her team against their opponents.” Coach Schweitzer was also quick to also commend Camila on her sportsmanship “We have been very happy with Camila's leadership both on and off the floor.“ 

Congratulations, Camila! Way to go, Will!

Will Sandak

September 4, 2023

Congratulations to Will Sandak, our Athlete of the Week for the week of September 4! The sophomore hit a personal best time of 24:50 at the Warwick Valley Wave Mania Cross Country Invitational. But he isn’t going to stop there - he continues to push, and has set lofty goals for his times in future meets. Coach Brunner explains “Will's hard work has been a motivator for the rest of the team to work harder every day in practice. With the work he is putting in I believe he will easily surpass those goals.” 

 Way to go, Will!

Darya Vishnevskaya

August 28, 2023

The AOTW for the week of August 28 is Darya Vishnevskaya.  A sophomore on the Junior Varsity team, Darya played well during the scrimmage tournament in Port Jervis last week. Having no fear of diving for a ball, Coach Schweitzer complimented Darya's assertive approach on defense. 

Congratulations  Darya! 

Rachel Marin

August 21, 2023

Congrats to junior Rachel Marin,  AOTW for the week of August 21!  Although she is new to both Tuxedo and volleyball, she has taken to the sport quite well.  Previously a soccer player, “Rachel is a fabulous team player and shows a positive attitude on the floor,” said Coach Schweitzer. 

Congratulations to Hamza Imran and Sarah Cruz Granillo, our Tuxedo Tornadoes Athletes of the Week. Sarah, a freshman on the junior varsity softball team, was nominated by Coach Jenna Park for her “positive attitude” and adaptability. Normally a shortstop, Sarah played three positions, outfield ad infield, during a game late last month. Park says Cruz Granillo is a “leader” who “always shows up for her team, makes good plays and hustles down the line.”

Hamza, an eighth grader on the modified baseball team who plays right field, was called a “sponge” by modified baseball coach Ryan McKenna for his ability to learn and apply the mechanics of the game. McKenna says, “Hamza is always there to cheer the team on and keep them fired up. His efforts and participation during practice is what every player should mirror."

Congratulations to Casey Juance, our Tuxedo Tornadoes Athlete of the Week! The George F. Baker High School sophomore may be a starting pitcher on the junior varsity softball team, but Coach Jenna Park says Juance is also a go-to catcher for the team, noting she “begs” to get behind the plate. As for Casey at the bat; Park notes she had a big hit against O'Neill on Wednesday. Way to go Casey!

The Sandak brothers are the Tuxedo Tornadoes' Athletes of the Week. George F. Baker High School freshman Will is a pitcher on the Junior Varsity baseball team and older brother Jake, a junior at GFB, is the team's first baseman. Coach Matt Van Houten says Jake "has been very versatile over the last week and was able to play catcher when we needed." As for Will, Coach notes he has "pitched well and had two big hits to help drive in multiple runs last week."

Congratulations to Lilianna Sosa, our Tuxedo Tornadoes Athlete of the Week. During this week's modified softball game against Chester, the first baseman drove in four runs on two hits and scored twice. Coach Dowling notes the seventh grader's "hard work and dedication to the team has really paid off!"

It's an ‘Athlete of the Week’ battery. Junior Varsity Baseball players and junior classmates Jimi Reedy (Catcher) and Anthony Arone (Pitcher) were nominated by Coach Matt Van Houten for their performance last week against Tri-Valley. Coach Van Houten says Arone has not only pitched well in relief, but is “showing more consistent power at the plate.” As for his teammate, Reedy; he not only had a pick off at third but according to Van Houten has provided a “spark to the offense.”

Congratulations to Brooke Bower and Gabriel Ogden. Our Tuxedo Tornadoes Athletes of the Week! Brooke, a seventh grader on the Modified Softball team, was nominated by Coach Dowling for her “hard work and commitment.” Dowling singled out Bower’s performance against the Spartans, when she hit a single into left field and played “great” defense. Ogden is an eighth grader on the Modified Baseball Team. Coach McKenna says Ogden is a team leader with a positive attitude who comes up big when the team needs him.  “An example is he came in to pitch in our game against Seward and even though he was nervous, he was able to pitch the last three innings and held their team off from scoring and tying the game.”

Congratulations to Evangeleen Ortiz, the Tuxedo Tornadoes ‘Athlete of the Week.’ Ortiz, a freshman at George F. Baker High School, plays centerfield for the Girls Junior Varsity Softball Team. Coach Jenna Park calls Ortiz a “positive leader at practice” who “hustles on and off the field.” Park also noted how Ortiz takes the time out during practice to help others when learning new drills. Way to go Evangeleen!

Congratulations to JV Basketball's Jack Reilly, our "Athlete of the Week." Coach Emily Dowling says since the beginning of the season, the freshman has shown a great deal of commitment to the team. This includes spending extra time working on his skills in the gym outside of scheduled practices.

"This extra time has definitely paid off in our season, where he demonstrated an intense level of play," says Dowling. "He gives 100% effort at all times and is always eager to try anything he is challenged to do in and outside of the classroom. Throughout the season Jack made tremendous progress both offensively and defensively."

Its a Tuxedo Tornadoes Twofer! Basketball players Matthew Keech Murillo and Jimi Reedy are our “Athletes of the Week.” Reedy, a junior on the boy’s varsity team put up 20+ points in his last two games. Coach Takeuchi says he challenged Reedy during half-time in the game against Florida to score in the paint at least once. “He proceeded to score on three consecutive drives to the basket; going above and beyond what I challenged him to do.” 

Eighth grader Matthew Keech Murillo gave “110% during this week’s game” says modified boy’s coach Jenna Park. Park says Keech Murillo “hustles up and down the court on every single play with a smile on his face, and takes constructive criticism while also building up his team."

The sophomore led the Junior Varsity basketball team to their first victory on February 2; scoring 24 points against Tri-Valley High School. Coach Emily Dowling notes Bello's "extreme determination and hustle" on the court, making him worthy of this honor. Way to go Logan and go #tornadoes🌪 !

The George F. Baker High School Junior led the Tornadoes with 18 points in their game on January 6th against league rival Eldred and has been a key contributor to the basketball program on both the offensive and defensive end of the floor.  Coach Matt Takeuchi says Essoka has been a leader and a role model with nearly perfect attendance and an incredible work ethic. “Sean has also proven to be extraordinarily unselfish and committed by his play on the court and by placing personal commitments on hold for the good of the team.”