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Cold Pizza

The SMS Athletics Newsletter

Cold PizzaThe SMS Athletics Newsletter

Week of 9/30/24:

This week's edition includes:

  • Intramural Information
  • Winter Sports Registrations
  • Standout Athlete Recognition
  • 8th Grade Football & Cheer Day of Giving Back
  • Undefeated Volleyball
  • Middle School Basketball Open Gyms- TBA
  • Sports Schedules
  • Rec Basketball Sign-Ups
  • Spectator/Fan Behavior
  • Sports Photos
  • Coach Spotlight
  • Levy Facts
  • Eligibility
  • Athletic Opportunities at SMS
  • Online Team Shop
  • Athletic Boosters
  • Win a Car AND Support Athletics
  • Ticket Price Increase
  • Online Ticketing Information
  • Strongsville Rec Department Program Offerings
  • Click/Tap HERE for previous editions of Cold Pizza

INTRAMURAL INFORMATION INTRAMURAL INFORMATION

WINTER SPORTS REGISTRATIONS ARE NOW OPEN WINTER SPORTS REGISTRATIONS ARE NOW OPEN

If your child is looking to wrestle or play basketball for SMS this winter please know that process begins by logging into Final Forms. Access that site HERE. More details below about registration are below.


  • DO NOT PAY the Pay to Participate fee until after tryouts.
  • PARTICIPANTS IN OPEN GYMS MUST BE REGISTERED ON FINAL FORMS AND HAVE A PHYSICAL ON FILE.
  • Detailed Registration Instructions
  • Having an active physical on file with the athletic office is a requirement. You can access the physical form HERE.
  • Pay-to-Participate Info
  • All Pay-to-Participate and prior year school fees must be paid in order for students to be eligible to participate.
  • SMS students must have passed at least 4 classes in their previous quarter to be eligible. If their GPA is below a 2.0 they will have to submit weekly progress reports.

STANDOUT ATHLETES STANDOUT ATHLETES

The athletic department is excited to announce a new initiative to recognize students who demonstrate exemplary behavior, whether consistently or in a standout moment on the field, court, bus, classroom, halls, or in interactions with others. These students will receive public recognition for their positive contributions, and those who exhibit the best behavior will have the chance to win free team gear! We believe that highlighting these behaviors will inspire all athletes to strive for excellence both on and off the field.

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Madelyn Corrigan

Throughout the season, Maddie's teammates could always count on her to go the extra mile, whether it was cleaning up after practice or helping to set up for games. She was the first to step up whenever the coach needed an extra hand, never hesitating to take on new tasks or responsibilities.

Maddie's selfless attitude and willingness to help extended beyond just the court. Her coach praised her for always being the first to offer a helping hand, even if it meant staying late to tidy up after others may have left a mess. This dedication to keeping the team's shared spaces clean and organized demonstrated Maddie's commitment to creating a positive and productive environment for her teammates.


It was Maddie's quiet, behind-the-scenes contributions, combined with her eagerness to assist whenever needed, that earned her this well-deserved recognition. Her coach and fellow players are grateful for Maddie's unwavering support and the positive impact she had on the team throughout the season.

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Louie Henry

A member of the 8th grade football team, was recently recognized by his ELA teacher, Mrs. Duplaga, for his exceptional support and assistance in her class.

Throughout the school year, Mrs. Duplaga has been consistently impressed by Louie's willingness to help his fellow classmates, even when they weren't members of the football team. Louie could always be counted on to lend a helping hand to those who were struggling with the coursework or needed an extra set of notes.

It was Louie's unwavering commitment to uplifting his classmates that earned him this well-deserved recognition from Mrs. Duplaga. His ELA teacher was grateful for the positive influence he had on the entire class, both in and out of the academic setting.

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Ella Hunley

Throughout the season, Ella's teammates could always count on her to be a source of comfort and encouragement. But one particular instance stood out - when one of Ella's close friends was facing a challenging week, Ella made it her mission to lift her spirits and ensure she felt cared for.

Ella's coach praised her for embodying the true essence of teamwork and camaraderie. Her ability to prioritize the needs of others, even when it meant going out of her way, inspired her teammates and demonstrated the power of empathy and kindness.


It was Ella's unwavering compassion and commitment to supporting her friends and teammates that earned her this well-deserved recognition. Her coach and fellow cheerleaders are grateful for the positive influence Ella has had on the squad both on and off the mat.

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Jadyn Dombek

Throughout the season, Jadyn's cheerleading squad could always count on her to be a source of support and encouragement. But one moment in particular stood out - when one of Jadyn's close friends was having an especially difficult week, Jadyn went out of her way to be there for her.

Jadyn's coach praised her for embodying the true spirit of teamwork and camaraderie. Her ability to prioritize the needs of others, even when it meant going out of her way, inspired her teammates and demonstrated the power of empathy and kindness.

It was Jadyn's unwavering compassion and commitment to supporting her friends and teammates that earned her this well-deserved recognition. Her coach and fellow cheerleaders are grateful for the positive influence Jadyn has had on the squad both on and off the mat.

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James Watson

As the football season came to a close, James Watson, an 8th grade standout on the team, was honored for his exceptional dedication and commitment during the team's annual "Day of Giving Back" community service project.

Throughout the day, James demonstrated an unwavering focus on his assigned task - drying the cars that had been washed as part of the fundraiser. While his teammates took on various roles, from sorting donations to cleaning up a local park, James remained steadfast in his responsibility, ensuring every car was meticulously dried and ready for the next round.

James's coach praised his ability to stay dedicated to his role, no matter how mundane the task may have seemed. His teammates were in awe of James's work ethic, as he refused to take breaks or let his attention waver, even as the day wore on.

It was James's commitment to seeing his job through, without the need for recognition or praise, that earned him this well-deserved honor. His coach and teammates were grateful for the positive example James set, demonstrating the importance of reliability and attention to detail, even in the most routine of tasks.

While James's contributions may have seemed small in comparison to the larger community service efforts, his dedication and willingness to fully commit to his assigned role made a meaningful impact on the overall success of the team's project.

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Aubrie Connolly

Throughout the season, Aubrie was always the first to say "good job" or check in on someone who was having a bad day. She consistently lifted up her teammates, making sure everyone felt valued and encouraged, even on their most challenging days.

Aubrie's flexibility and willingness to adapt were also praised by her coach and teammates. Whether she was asked to try a new position or take on an unfamiliar drill, Aubrie embraced the opportunity without hesitation. Her adaptability and team-first mentality set a shining example for the entire squad.


It was Aubrie's consistent positivity, selflessness, and commitment to her teammates that earned her this well-deserved recognition. Her coach and fellow players are grateful for her invaluable contributions both on and off the field.

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Alex Wilson

Throughout the season, Alex's teammates could always count on her to go above and beyond for the good of the team. One standout moment was when the coach had the other team run sprints during practice. Rather than leaving her colleagues to run alone, Alex made the thoughtful decision to run alongside the other players, offering encouragement and camaraderie every step of the way.

Alex's coach praised her for this gesture, noting that it not only lifted the spirits of her teammates but also demonstrated her unwavering team-first mentality. Whether it was on the court or during grueling conditioning drills, Alex was always there to lend a helping hand and ensure no one felt alone.


It was Alex's genuine care for her teammates, combined with her willingness to put their needs before her own, that earned her this well-deserved recognition. Her coach and fellow players are grateful for the positive energy and sense of unity that Alex brought to the team throughout the season.

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Calette Hicks

Throughout the season, Calette's teammates could always count on her to lift their spirits and offer encouragement. One memorable moment stood out - when a teammate was having a particularly difficult day, Calette stepped in without hesitation to provide a listening ear and words of comfort. Her compassion and ability to empathize with others made a lasting impact on the entire team.

Calette's supportive nature extended beyond just emotional support. She was also quick to offer constructive feedback and help her teammates improve their skills on the court. Her coach praised Calette's willingness to take on new roles or responsibilities, always putting the team's needs first.


It was Calette's genuine care for her teammates, combined with her flexible and selfless attitude, that earned her this well-deserved recognition. Her coach and fellow players are grateful for the positive energy and team-first mentality that Calette brought to the court every single day.

SPORTS HEADLINES SPORTS HEADLINES

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WINTER BASKETBALL OPEN GYMS AND TRYOUTS WINTER BASKETBALL OPEN GYMS AND TRYOUTS

Keep an eye on your inboxes! More details about the upcoming winter basketball season will be sent out early next week.

Open gyms will likely begin in mid-October. Girls' tryouts may be as early as October 25th, while boys' tryouts could start as soon as November 1st.


Before participating, please note that the following requirements must be met:


  • Students must be registered in Final Form at finalforms.com
  • All parent and student forms must be signed
  • An active physical (within the past 13 months) must be uploaded to final forms in order to tryout and participate in open gyms
  • DO NOT pay the pay to particiapte fees until after the tryouts are compelted and rosters have been announced

2024-2025 SMS FALL ATHLETICS SCHEDULES 2024-2025 SMS FALL ATHLETICS SCHEDULES

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GET THE LATEST TEAM UPDATES:

  • We post game/event results on :"X" HERE
  • Follow game/event results on Facebook HERE


FOOTBALL/CHEER:

  • FB Game Schedule


VOLLEYBALL:

  • VB Match Schedule


CROSS COUNTRY:

  • CC Meet Schedule



INTRAMURALS:

  • Flag football, girls volleyball and running club info coming really soon!

Rec Basketball Sign-Ups Rec Basketball Sign-Ups

ATHLETIC SPECTATOR EXPECTATIONS ATHLETIC SPECTATOR EXPECTATIONS

Sports Fan Etiquette

Strongsville City Schools, its students, its staff, and its services are all part of a first class community. The roots of our first class nature are derived from the actions of the great families that comprise Strongsville. With that said, being first class doesn't mean being perfect in all actions. In part, it means having the desire, open-mindedness and skillset to get better when needed. Last year some of our students, perhaps unknowingly, engaged in some unsportsmanlike conduct from the bleachers at some recent athletic contests. Most of us know that being good neighbors to our opponents, their fans and the officials is a part of being first class. It might not be known to many middle school aged students who are starting to experience their first sense of freedom.


I am strongly encouraging all families to have the following conversation with your middle school aged child. Please inform them that the only acceptable behavior at sporting event is being positive. Any negative behavior/speech is strictly prohibited. Below is a brief explanation as it relates to acceptable and unacceptable fan behavior. Thank you for your cooperation!

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Great Fans

  • Wild, crazy
  • Loud , energetic
  • Passionate
  • Above all- POSITIVE!
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Bad Fans

  • Mocking, sarcastic
  • NEGATIVE
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Bad Fans

  • Thumbs down
  • Booing
  • Yelling NEGATIVE things

SMS Athletics Photos SMS Athletics Photos

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COACH SPOTLIGHT COACH SPOTLIGHT

Coach Duplaga, Cheerleading

Tell everyone a little about yourself?

  • This is my 9th year teaching in Strongsville, and my 5th year coaching cheerleading in Strongsville, my 13th year coaching cheerleading in general, but my first coaching Middle School. I love cheer and have been doing it since I was in 5th grade. I cheered all the way through high school and even into college, cheering at Cleveland State for their DI men and womens basketball teams.

    Besides being a coach and teacher, I am also very blessed to have the best family. My husband, Steve, is also an 8th grade teacher and we have spunky 3 year old twins, Greyson and Kennedy. You will probably see them trying to join the games or cheering on the sidelines along with me!


What team(s) do you currently coach (in and out of SCS)?

  • Middle School Football and Basketball Cheerleading and I also assist with the high school teams, specifically the competition team.


Why did you get into coaching?

  • I got into coaching originally to try and instill my love of cheerleading into other athletes. However, that quickly shifted. I love coaching now because of the impact and relationship that I am able to build with athletes. I feel that a coach can play such a pivotal role in an adolescent's life that sometimes a classroom teacher can not.


What was your favorite coaching moment?

  • My favorite coaching moment was when I took my competitive high school team from Avon to the conference competition and they placed first in a very competitive conference. They forever will be the reigning WSC conference cheerleading champions.


Outside of the Mustangs, who is your favorite sports team?

  • I am a Cleveland sports fan through and through. However, my favorite team of all time in the Cleveland Browns... I can thank my dad for that.

ATHLETE ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION ATHLETE ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

Player Eligibility

Player eligibility is determined by SCS and OHSAA policies. Some of the eligibility criteria is listed below.



  • Students must maintain at least a 2.0 G.P.A. Should their G.P.A. fall below a 2.0 they will be put on a weekly progress reports to assure assignments and effort are up to snuff. If not the players will be required to sit until improvement is made.
  • Students must have passed at least 4 classes in the previous quarter (5 credits if at SHS). Should this criteria not be met a student will not be eligible for the forthcoming athletic season.
  • Pay to Participate and previous year academic fees must be paid in order to partake in athletic games/contests. Students will be withheld from all contests until fees are paid.
  • OHSAA Eligibility Resource Center

    • https://ohsaa.org/Eligibility

SMS ATHLETIC OPPORTUNITIES SMS ATHLETIC OPPORTUNITIES

SPIRIT WEAR SPIRIT WEAR

Spirit Wear

If you're looking for some spirit wear to help support the Mustangs please know that spirit wear can be purchased through the Strongsville Mustangs Spirit Stpre linked below. Christmas is just around the corner, don't miss out on some great gift ideas! A couple of examples of the 100's of items found in our online spirit shop are pictured below.


SPIRIT STORE LINK

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STRONGSVILLE ATHLETIC BOOSTERS STRONGSVILLE ATHLETIC BOOSTERS

Strongsville Athletic Boosters

The Strongsville Athletic Boosters is comprised of parent volunteers that raise funds and provide support to all of the Strongsville High School and Middle School athletic programs and student-athletes. Every dollar raised by the booster club is invested back into the student-athlete experience. We purchase uniforms, warm-ups, training equipment and other items to help our student-athletes perform to the best of their ability in representing Strongsville City Schools. Our ultimate success depends on the commitment of parents! Click HERE to join the Athletic Boosters for the 2024-2025 school year. Becoming a member not only helps your student's success but it also gets you some free SWAG. Details in the graphic below.

Win This Car!

Help the athletic teams and potentially win a Chevy Trax! Click HERE to buy raffle tickets!
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Sports Programs at the Strongsville Recreation Department

Click/tap HERE for what sports programs are upcoming for the Strongsville Recreation Department.
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SMS Athletics

Email: jkeppler@scsmustangs.org
Website: strongsvilleathletics.org
Location: 13200 Pearl Road, Strongsville, OH, USA
Phone: 4405727090
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Strongsville-Athletics/100057494767336/
Twitter: @scsmustangs

Jason Keppler
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