Athletic Director Mr. Krawczel is pleased with the results of the school’s athletes this year. Looking back on 2023-2024, though, he was less than thrilled with game attendance. “It’s disappointing how few kids have been coming to games,” Krawczel said in an interview with The Tattler. It’s one of the things that he wants to work on for next school year. This past year was filled with many teams making deep runs into the playoffs. For those who missed the action, here is a look at this season’s notable teams, athletes, and games:
FOOTBALL
Varsity Football had a very exciting season because, despite their 5-4 record, they were able to win their first playoff game in 20 years and even make it to State Quarterfinals. “I think this season went very well. We put in a lot of work during the offseason and we got some good results,” said starting edge rusher Milki Bato. He expects to be “nothing short of State Champions [next season].” The Barons football team had many star players this season. Among them were First-Team All-County linebacker Nelson Smith and first-team all-state punter Grady Kugel.
BOYS’SOCCER
Varsity Boys Soccer did not have the best season it has ever had. They finished with a 5-5-3 record. It is only the third season since Mr. Melendez became the coach of the Barons that they have not had a winning record. The Barons had a lot of competitive and close games that did not end up going their way. One of the best games of their season came in their first playoff game against Churchill where the Barons were able to score a late goal to win 2-1. “The guys played with such conviction and such heart that they were able to win,” Melendez said.
GIRLS’ BASKETBALL
Varsity Girls Basketball team had one of the best seasons of the year. They made it all the way to the state finals and even played at the University of Maryland. Despite their 43-36 loss to Clarksburg, it was still a season to remember for the Barons. “It was special. I enjoyed every minute of it,” said Coach Ingalls. “Even though we lost, it was still something I am going to remember for the rest of my life.” A lot of their success is attributed to some of their stand-out players this season like Anna Tercyak, Elisha Robinson and Frances Doyle. “It was the across-the-board depth and talent that got us where we ended up this year,” Ingalls said.
BOYS AND GIRLS INDOOR TRACK
Both Boys and Girls Indoor Track had good seasons with multiple individuals and teams competing well in the state championships. Junior Ani Bailin finished second in the 3200m and was also a part of the relay team for the 4×800 that finished second and also consisted of junior Amelia Menefee, senior Morgan Kirsch and junior Sophie Harjes. Senior Seamus McCann also placed third in the pole vault.
BASEBALL
Varsity Boys Baseball went 15-5 in the regular season and clinched the #2 seed along with a first-round bye in the playoffs. Their terrific year came to an end with an 8-5 playoff loss to Quince Orchard in the second round. They had a lot of big wins, including 25-0 against Springbrook, and some close losses such as 5-3 in twelve-innings against three-time defending state champions Sherwood. Coach Schmidt says these close losses “made [them] a better team,” because it helps them “know what to do next time and prevent those [mistakes] from happening.” A lot of their success has come from some great seasons from their star players such as senior Pierce Tewksbury who batted .421 and threw a no-hitter and Montgomery County pitcher of the year Henry Eichner.
NEW NEXT YEAR
Girls Flag Football and Pickleball are two new sports B-CC students can compete in next year. The Baltimore Ravens and Under Armour are funding flag football in Montgomery County Public Schools in the fall. It will be a varsity sport. Pickleball will be an allied sport and will have five teams.
