The Dryden Red and Black

Dryden High School is proud to announce that Varsity Boys Basketball Coach John DelCampo earned his 300th career victory on December 1 with a 67–51 win over Memphis High School. The milestone marks another chapter in a remarkable career that has shaped the lives of student-athletes for more than four decades.

DelCampo began teaching at Dryden High School in 1979 and first took the helm of the varsity basketball program in 1982, leading the Cardinals during the 1982–84 and 1992–1997 seasons before moving on to pursue other opportunities. In 2014, he returned to the Dryden sidelines for a deeply personal reason: the opportunity to coach his son, John Patrick. That experience, he says, became one of the greatest joys of his life and the highlight of his coaching career.

Throughout his tenure, DelCampo has guided Dryden to multiple district and league championships, but he often emphasizes that his most meaningful victories are not recorded on the scoreboard. DelCampo often reflects that the most meaningful memories come from the relationships built with players and families—connections that last far beyond high school. He hopes his athletes remember that their time in the program made them not only better basketball players, but better people.

DelCampo credits the many coaches he observed over the years, noting that he learned by watching the strengths and weaknesses of a wide variety of coaching styles rather than looking to a single mentor. That broad perspective helped shape the steady, principled approach he brings to the court today.

Although he is humble by nature and quick to deflect attention, DelCampo has acknowledged how special this milestone feels. He shared that in the final minute of the game, the significance of the moment caught up with him. Looking around the gym, he saw a community filled with love and support, and the emotion of the presentation nearly overwhelmed him. In a message to supporters, he wrote, “I truly do not have the words to express to everyone how much I appreciate that you were a part of the journey to 300. From athletes, to friends, to parents, to family—I am lucky to have you in my life. With much love, thank you again.” He added, “I’ve never been a big ‘me’ person, but having so many people be a part of this is just overwhelming. I am one very fortunate man.”

DelCampo credits his family—especially his wife, Maureen, and his son, John Patrick—for their unwavering support, emphasizing that every accomplishment has been possible because of them. Dryden Athletic Director Brian Tresnak praised DelCampo’s impact on the school and community. “Coach DelCampo represents everything we value in high school athletics,” Tresnak said. “He builds strong players, strong teammates, and strong young men. His 300th win is a reflection of decades of commitment, integrity, and love for the game.”

Tresnak added, “We’re incredibly fortunate to have him leading our program. This milestone is well-deserved, and our entire community celebrates with him.” Dryden High School congratulates Coach DelCampo on this extraordinary achievement and looks forward to many more seasons of leadership, mentorship, and Cardinal pride under his guidance.

Dryden High School staff members recently voted to recognize students from each grade as November Students of the Month. In conjunction with the Positivity Project, a schoolwide initiative to build positive character habits in its fourth year, the November theme was Bravery. The Students of the Month received a letter from Dryden High School Principal Mary Finnigan (a copy of which is attached), a "front-of-the-line" cafeteria pass, and a Dryden High School Student of the Month keychain, as well as sincere congratulations and appreciation.

We’re Hiring!

Dryden Community Schools is looking for dedicated individuals to join our team!

We have openings for:

• Special Education Paraprofessional
• Part-Time Cook
• Crossing Guard

If you’re passionate about supporting students and making a difference in our schools, we’d love to hear from you!

Call (810) 796-2201, (810)796-2266, or apply online below.

🎉 Support Project Graduation and enter to win delicious prizes in our Meat Raffle sponsored by The Country Market! 🥩🍗🥓

For just $5 per ticket, you could win:
🥇 1st Prize ($475 Value): A huge variety of steaks, chicken, pork, and more to fill your freezer!
🥈 2nd Prize ($200 Value): Ground chuck, sirloins, sausage, whole chickens, ribs & more.
🥉 3rd Prize ($85 Value): Ground chuck, hotdogs, pork steaks, bacon, and more.

📅 Tickets will be drawn on December 19th – just in time for the holidays!

Every ticket purchased helps support our graduating seniors.
👉 To purchase tickets or for more info, contact Ashley at agammon@drydenschools.org.

Thank you for supporting Project Graduation and our students’ futures! ❤️

Calling all future Cardinals!

Do you love basketball? Want to play with your friends and improve your game?

Join Dryden Elementary Boys’ Basketball — Grades 3–6!

Space is limited — register today!

Email: coachdelcampo@aol.com

by Madilyn Thorman

Speaker Zack Ballinger grew up in a small town in Tennessee, but currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia. His parents originally planned to terminate the pregnancy, but decided not to. They attempted to raise him for the first few months, but eventually relinquished custody of him as his parents were both too young and unfit to care for a child. This led to him growing up in a studio apartment with his grandmother. Ballinger attended a small school and planned to attend a large college after graduation. However, he was told many times that he could never make it in a big school. He came from a rural town, and there was no way that he could ever make it in a big setting. Later on, Ballinger proved them wrong. He ultimately graduated from the University of Tennessee at the top of his class.

After he graduated, he went into pharmaceutical sales. It took him a few years, but he ended up landing a job with a large company. Several years later, working in that field, Ballinger earned an achievement two or three years in a row for being a top seller. However, shortly after, he developed Meniere's disease, which affects your hearing and left him deaf in one ear. He eventually got hearing aids and worked in sales for a little while longer before leaving the profession. Ballinger started out by publishing a few books, and then later on, went on to become a motivational speaker. Ballinger has traveled all over the United States speaking about his experience and helping other people.

Ballinger’s story was moving. He came from a small school similar to Dryden, and while he was told he would never make it, he did. He accomplished a lot, became successful twice in both his careers. It was also comforting to see that you can be in a profession for years and still be able to change what you want to do.

Stay updated on our progress with funds from the bond passed in May 2023 by using this checklist! We appreciate your continued support of our students, our schools, and our community.

Dryden Athletic Booster Meetings

December 17

<---- Winter Concessions Sign Up

Introducing Tri-County Voltage Volleyball — Launching 2026!

Get ready to feel the energy… because a brand-new volleyball club is coming to the Tri-County area, and we’re turning up the power in 2026!

We are thrilled to announce the official launch of Tri-County Voltage Volleyball, a fresh, dynamic club built to inspire athletes, develop strong fundamentals, and create a high-energy volleyball community right here at home.

What to Expect in Our First Year:

• Exciting skill-building camps & clinics

• Beginner-friendly programs for new players

• Competitive training sessions for developing athletes

• Specialty camps to level up serving, passing, hitting & more

• A positive, supportive environment with a passion for growth

Whether you’re stepping on the court for the first time or leveling up your game, Voltage Volleyball is here to spark confidence, connection, and FUN. Our first round of camps launches in 2026 — details dropping soon! Be ready… spots will go FAST once registration opens.

Join our email list! - https://lclhhpcx.formester.com/f/GMmFihYov

Let’s build something amazing together!

by Claire Wright

What did one snowman say to the other who was stressing?

Don’t worry, you’ll melt under pressure.

Attention #proudcardinal Class of 2026 Parents:
If you're looking for a great way to honor your 2026 graduate, consider purchasing a Recognition Ad in this year's yearbook. A 1/4 page ad costs $80. There are several formats from which to choose. Here are some examples from last year's yearbook. A limited number of ads are available and are sold on a "first come - first served" basis. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Mrs. Palmerini at bpalmerini@drydenschools.org.

Last week's riddle:

I have two legs, but they only touch the ground while I'm at rest.

What am I? A wheelbarrow!

Congratulations, Meenah Mohler! You were the first with the correct answer.

This week's riddle:

A dog crosses the river without getting wet, and without using a bridge or boat. How?

Submit your answer below for a shoutout next week!

Coach Kyrie Howell

Luxy Abraham

Aliah Delmotte

Willow DuBois

Ophelia Golden

Laynie Handley

Charlotte Mayer

Hayley Radatz

Cheyenne Sabo

Hailee Soule

Angelina Urick

Hailey Yacheson

Coach Kevin Shute

Nick Abromaitis

Dylan Lasher

Trent Myers

Brenden Peter

Logan Romain

Liam Schultz

Ian Tresnak

Bishop Wilson

Caleb Wilson

Kayla Baughman

Chloe DeLoy

Brooke Dombrowski

Kaeleigh Gourieux

Amy Gucciardi

Lilyana Lasher

Penelope Spencer

Coach John Delcampo

Nick Abromaitis

Hayden Blair

Gianni Coscione

Joseph DiVita

Rowan Handley

Jax Morley

Tyler Roberts

Brady Schneider

Jayden Stankevich

Luke Taylor

Coach Sam Peyerk

Joshua Adams

Andersen Blair

Aiden Dunny

Kai Grabowski

Jaxen Hearold

Devon Juopperi

Jason Kaiser

Josiah Matson

TJ Mersino

Kieran Schultz

Jeffrey Taylor

Maverick Watson

Max Webb

Evan Weier

Coach Marcus Leija

Anabelle Abraham

Demarie Cohoon

Aliah Delmotte

Addison Kedzierski

Charlotte Lowran

Addelyn Mersino

Andrea Olvera

Elise Roth

Holly Willson

Coach Lola Abromaitis

Sullivan Brown

Jaxon Buffo

Kaden Bullock

Jacob Cooper

Nate Flores

Joshua Marsh

Spencer McLemore

Mason Osborne

Ryan Peter

Joshua Rampe

Aiden Tyrkus

Coach Josh Koroleski

Jayson Adams

Lucas Bridgewater

Jace Donnelly

Zane Grabowski

Colton Macumber

Chase Morley

Chase Osborne

Jaxon Stankevich

Oliver Wallace

Josiah Whitson

Keith Wilkey

On Monday, December 1, 2025, Dryden hosted Memphis for the first game of the season. In the opening quarter, Dryden pulled ahead 11–7. By the second, Dryden extended the lead with 21 points to Memphis’s 15. In the third quarter, Dryden added another 20 while Memphis stayed close with 15. In the fourth, Dryden sealed the win with 15 points as Memphis followed with 14.

Ultimately, Dryden secured a 67–51 victory over Memphis. “We played very unselfish offensive basketball. We distributed the ball well,” said Coach John DelCampo, who celebrated a milestone as he reached 300 career wins. “It was a special night. It was great to have so many people here that have been a part of the journey.”

For Dryden, Luke Taylor scored 18 points; Jax Morley contributed 12; Nick Abromaitis added 11; Brady Schneider tallied 9; Tyler Roberts put up 8; Hayden Blair scored 7; and Jayden Stankevich finished with 2.

The Cardinals finished the week with a loss to Almont, 50-34, on December 5. "Give them credit. They played better than us in all phases of the game. It was a very disappointing game for us," reflected Coach DelCampo.

Dryden was led by Luke Taylor with 12 points. Brady Schneider followed with 10, while Nick Abromaitis and Gianni Coscione each put up five. Tyler Roberts added two in the losing cause.

On Monday, December 1, 2025, the Dryden JV Boys Basketball team competed against Memphis for their first matchup. Dryden controlled the game and finished with 40 points, while Memphis totaled 34, giving Dryden a season record of 1–0.

For Dryden, Kieran Schultz scored 13 points; Kai Grabowski added 8; Andersen Blair contributed 7; TJ Mersino earned 5; Josh Adams recorded 4; and Evan Weier finished with 3.

At Dryden, we’re proud to offer a wide range of athletic opportunities, and we recognize that some student-athletes have the talent and drive to participate in two sports during the same season. Dual-sport participation can be beneficial when carefully managed—it encourages versatility, teamwork, and school spirit. However, it also requires a high level of responsibility and communication to ensure that both programs, and the student’s academic commitments, remain supported. To help guide these situations, we have a clear dual-sport policy focused on transparency, fairness, and the overall well-being of the student-athlete.

When a student wishes to participate in two sports, both head coaches and the Athletic Director must agree that it is in the best interest of the athlete and both teams. A meeting with the student, parent/guardian, coaches, and AD is required before the season begins to set expectations and designate a “primary sport,” which only comes into play when two competitions directly conflict. Competitions always take priority over practices, and athletes must communicate conflicts well in advance so coaches can plan accordingly. Ultimately, dual-sport participation is a privilege, and maintaining strong academics, good citizenship, and reliable communication is essential. If issues arise, the arrangement may be adjusted or revoked to protect the student’s success and the integrity of both programs.

• 2:30 PM–3:30 PM – Boys FCA Meeting (Library)

• 6:00 PM–8:00 PM – JH Girls Basketball vs Peck

• 7:00 PM–8:00 PM – School Board Meeting (Library)

• 7:10 AM - 7:25 AM - Weekly Encouragement (Library)

• 2:30 PM–3:30 PM – Girls FCA Meetings (Library)

• 7:00 PM–8:00 PM – JH/HS Band Concert (MPR)

• All Day: Wear it Wednesday (HS) - Winter/Holiday Theme Day

• 10:00 AM–12:00 PM – SRO Meeting (Room 225)

• 3:30 PM–6:00 PM – Varsity Bowling vs Lakers (4550 Howland Rd, Almont, MI 48003)

• 6:00 PM–8:00 PM – JH Girls Basketball at Marlette (Bus departs 4:30 PM)

• 2:30 PM–3:30 PM – The Theater Kids Club (Band Room)

• 3:30 PM–6:30 PM – Varsity Bowling vs Bad Axe (4550 Howland Rd, Almont, MI 48003)

• 6:00 PM–8:00 PM – JV/V Boys Basketball Paul Grondin Tournament (Games at 6 PM & 7:30 PM)

• 6:30 PM–7:30 PM – Weight Room Training/Workouts

• 6:00 PM–8:00 PM – JV/V Boys Basketball Paul Grondin Tournament (Games at 6 PM & 7:30 PM)

December 8

January 12

All meetings begin at 7:00 p.m., will be held in the Dryden High School Library, and are open to the public.

Faculty Advisors:

Ms. Sheryl Czerwinski & Mrs. Breanne Palmerini

Editors:

Caila Fitchett & Cara Prusakiewicz

Reporters:

Logan Romain & Claire Wright

Email: Cardinal@drydenschools.org
Website: https://www.drydenschools.org/
Location: Dryden High School, Rochester Road, Dryden, MI, USA
Phone: (810) 796-2266
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drydencommunityschools

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