Athletics & Activities Newsletter
September 2–12 | 2025
A Spark that Changed the Atmosphere
Providence Hall High School experienced a historic and electrifying moment at the season’s opening football game — the debut of the school’s first-ever pep band. What unfolded was more than just music at a game; it was a culture shift that redefined school spirit.
Our band director, Ms. Leach, introduced the pep band with the vision of giving students new opportunities to shine while building a bridge between athletics and the performing arts. Despite learning their music in just two class periods, the students delivered with passion and energy.
Teachers immediately noticed the difference. Mr. Grundhauser described the atmosphere as the most energetic he’s ever experienced at a PHHS football game, noting how the pep band sustained excitement even when the team faced challenges. Ms. Smith called the pep band the “missing piece” that transformed the stadium into a place where students and fans were fully engaged. Ms. Rominger highlighted how the upbeat music kept the crowd involved throughout the night, while Ms. Aguilar emphasized its inclusivity — giving musically inclined students the same visibility as cheer and dance, and encouraging wider participation from both students and staff.
Together, their reflections underscore just how powerful the addition of live music was in uniting the Providence Hall community.
The Providence Hall Girls Soccer team has been building momentum this season, with plenty of highlights, memorable moments, and signs of growth both on and off the field.
One of the biggest season highlights came with the team’s first win against South Sevier. “It was such a fun game to play with the girls,” said Aybree Blue. “We had great plays and it was just so fun to celebrate our first win!” The team has also leaned on standout performances, especially from goalkeeper Charley Peterson, who has been a wall in front of the net. “The amount of shots that are being taken on her is crazy, but she is truly so good in goal,” Aybree added.
Team progress has been undeniable. Despite a tough start to the season and the challenge of blending in new players, the Patriots have built strong chemistry. “The amount of progress that I personally have seen in this team is genuinely amazing,” Aybree reflected. “We’ve adapted and welcomed people in so well. The girls have worked hard to get here and I am so proud of the team that we are becoming.”
For HJ Brown, a personal highlight came when she scored with her left foot in front of her club team and coach. “It was really great to have them there to cheer me on,” she said. She also spotlighted teammates Miley Buttars and Reagan Peterman for their effort and growth. “Miley never ever gives up, no matter what the score is! And Reagan has grown so much as a player and is always working hard to get even better.”
The girls aren’t just building bonds on the field—they’ve also made time for team bonding nights, complete with charcuterie boards, board games, laughter, and plenty of memories. “It’s so fun seeing everyone’s friendships grow,” said Aybree. HJ added that the team also wants to support other Providence teams to build school spirit across sports.
For Emmi Chiarenza, the most memorable moment came during the first home game on the brand-new field against Cyprus. “Not only were the individual performances amazing, but as a team, the intensity, energy, and fight in that game was unforgettable,” she said.
With so many new players, some brand new to soccer, the Patriots have been learning and improving with every game. “Each game we play we get closer and play more like a team,” said HJ. “It makes me super happy!”
From thrilling saves to first goals, from bonding nights to the joy of playing on their new home field, this season has been a testament to the strategic decision making, collaboration, and resilience of Providence Hall Girls Soccer. And the best part? The team says they’re just getting started.
Soccer has always been at the heart of Coach Holly Stejskal’s life. From her early days growing up on the soccer field to her years as a player, parent, and coach, the game has been a constant thread for her and her family. Whether cheering on her children or supporting her husband in his own coaching journey, soccer has been—and continues to be—a family passion.
Coach Stejskal joined Providence Hall in 2019 and quickly embraced the close-knit community of the Patriots. Over the years, she has served in a variety of roles: Girls High School Assistant Coach, Junior High Boys Coach, and Junior High Girls Coach—leading the junior high girls to two consecutive State Championships. Her goal has always been to inspire student-athletes to embrace what it means to be a Patriot, from sixth grade through their senior year.
At the end of last year, Providence Hall made changes to the soccer coaching staff. While we hired a new coach who shared the same vision as administration, the timing ultimately didn’t work out. Through this transition, Coach Stejskal provided the consistency the team needed—keeping the girls on track all summer long. We are beyond grateful that she chose to apply for the Head Coach position, stepping into the role with confidence and dedication. Her leadership, along with the guidance of the team’s older players, has helped the girls navigate change and make the most of every challenge.
Outside of soccer, Coach Stejskal enjoys gardening and spending time outdoors with her family and their dogs. Known as the “crazy plant lady,” she takes special joy in rescuing plants from clearance racks and bringing them back to life. She’s also an avid listener of True Crime and History podcasts—always curious and always learning.
We also want to give a special shoutout to recent PHHS graduate Kate Stejskal, who has stepped up to assist the team this season. We are excited to see the additional support and coaching she brings to the program.
The Patriots are lucky to have Coach Holly at the helm. Her passion, steady leadership, and commitment to her players continue to strengthen Providence Hall Soccer and inspire the next generation of student-athletes.
