By Stephen Levitt ‘22, Sports Writer

Fall sports have officially ended and as temperatures drop around the country, it is time to look ahead towards Newark Academy winter sports.

The Men’s Varsity Basketball team is coming off an 11-16 season last year, including 6 league wins. This year, the team will be led by senior captains Nathan Perrello, Will Mulligan, and Will Hutchinson. Players are excited to start a new season under the leadership of new head coach Deon Mingo. Co-captain Nathan Perello said, “We’re all excited and confident that we’re in the right hands this year in terms of coaching.” NA fans hope that this change in coaching will lead to a strong year for the Men’s Varsity Basketball team.

The Women’s Varsity Basketball team had a winning season last year, going 15-11 and making it to the state quarterfinals. Coaches Liz Bona-Beach, Michael Altomare, and Seraphine Hamilton plan to build on this success. The 2018-2019 captains are Sam Keller (‘19) and Ivy Bethea (‘19). The loss of the only 2017-2018 senior, Maria Armas, will present a challenge for the team, who will surely miss her three point sharp-shooting capabilities.  According to Sam Keller, “It is going to be challenging to find someone to fill that shooting position.” A strong freshman class will help the Minutemen rise to the challenge. The Women’s Varsity team will play in the same league as last season with many returning players.

Mens Varsity Fencing went 4-5 last year, and Women’s Varsity Fencing went 1-8 last year. Head Coach, Daniel Bailey-Yavonditte will attempt to lead Newark Academy fencing program to a rebound year behind captains Abby Parker (‘19), Unnathy Nellutla (‘19), Simon Gorbaty (‘19) and Zach Burd (‘19). The fencing team will welcome many new freshman this year as they prepare for a packed schedule. Co-Captain Simon Gorbaty expressed his excitement for the season, saying, “Last season was fine, and the guys had many individual successes. However, I predict this year will be even better.”

Men’s Varsity Swimming went 6-7 last year, while the Women’s Varsity Swim Team went 10-4. Coaches William Blomn and Robert Rezvani will lead both men’s and women’s swim team this year. The women’s team will look to improve on their successful season a year ago with captains Bridget Bowen (‘19) and Monique Iben (‘19), while the men’s team will attempt to rebound from a losing season behind their captains David You (‘19) and Evan McGregor (‘19).

The varsity wrestling team is coming off a 3-10 season, but 2-1 in league matchups. This team will be led by head coach John Sternlicht and captain Tommy Hales (‘19).

All Newark Academy teams deserve a loyal and loud fan base — don’t forget to come out and cheer on your team this winter!