By Abby and Lauren Whelan ’14, Staff Writers

Nick Williams ’13, Soccer (South Orange)

Known for his speed and agility on the soccer field, the contributions of Nick Williams to this year’s varsity men’s soccer squad could hardly go unnoticed.  Nick, currently a junior, had a major impact in the success of the team this past season, helping NA Men’s Soccer to finish the season as the number eight team in Essex County. Nick started his career early, and has been playing organized soccer since he was only 4 years old. He has continued playing soccer outside of Newark Academy, and currently plays on a highly competitive team based in Princeton, New Jersey.  Nick has truly left his mark on the NA soccer program as well, with an astonishing 34 goals and 14 assists in his 3 years of varsity soccer! One of Nick’s most notable goals (and, as he humbly stated, one of his favorite moments of the past season,) may be his double over-time, game winning goal against Morris Catholic to help the team advance in the state tournament.  Although he notes that the seniors from this past year will be greatly missed both on and off the field, Nick anticipates another strong season ahead for NA Men’s Soccer. With eleven upcoming seniors in the program, he says, “I’m counting on the class of 2013 to be leaders next year and help us build on what we started this year.” Beyond NA Soccer, Nick aspires to play at the Division 1 collegiate level, and hopes to maybe even bring his talent beyond into professional soccer. With the love for the game, humility, determination, and pure talent that Nick possesses, there is no doubt that his goals can indeed be achieved!

Carissa Slzosek ’12, Cross Country (Green Brook)

Her humor and charismatic manner are just two of Carissa Slzosek’s many attributes known by the Newark Academy community. In addition to her positive nature, Carissa Slzosek’s contributions to the Newark Academy Cross Country program are truly admirable.  Carissa began her career as a runner in the 6^th grade, running both track and cross country for her middle school teams.  However, when Carissa first came to NA, she initially was not a member of either running team.  She participated in the girls soccer program in the fall her freshman and sophomore year, yet after realizing that running was her true passion, (due to an incredible track season during the spring of her sophomore year,) Carissa decided to join the cross country team. Although some may think that two years in a specific sports program is not enough time to truly make a difference, Carissa proves them wrong. As a captain this past year, Carissa added irreplaceable personality and talent to the team. When discussing this past season, Carissa states, “I was honored to be named captain of the cross country team. My co-captains were gems to work with. There’s something about the chemistry of the cross-country team that just can’t be explained.”  Another one of Carissa’s notable qualities is her true love for the sport. Running, as she explains, is her go-to activity and is something that can just bring her a pure feeling of joy and accomplishment. Carissa’s independence and confidence on and off the course is highly regarded. Recently, Carissa decided to purchase a varsity jacket, establishing herself as the only female in the school community to own one. She states that the varsity jacket is something that she feels should be important to everyone, regardless of gender. As Carissa explains, being on a varsity team is honorable, and a jacket is truly earned. Carissa’s leadership in not only the NAXC Program, but in NA athletics in general, is truly worthy of recognition!

Elizabeth Meijer ’14, Volleyball (Essex Fells)

Standing at an impressive height of 5 foot 7, Elizabeth Meijer is known for her amazing skills and control on the volleyball court. This sophomore has recently emerged and proven herself to truly be a vital contributor to NA’s varsity volleyball program! Although many may know her solely from her big (and now braceless!) smile, her  76 service aces, 132 points, 93 kills, 4 assists, and 51 digs just in this season alone make her a true threat on the court.  Some people may not be aware of the fact that soccer was Elizabeth’s main sport throughout her middle school years; however, when she was introduced to the sport of volleyball in 6^th grade, she couldn’t dismiss her love for the game. Even though her individual accomplishments are commendable, when discussing her experience as a member of the NA volleyball team, she comments, “The positive chemistry of the team made the season really enjoyable!” In addition to the NA team, Elizabeth plays on a highly competitive club volleyball team outside of school. She attends practices 3 times a week, and she participates in various tournaments throughout the United States. Among her many accolades, she most recently was voted to the first team all-conference for the 2011 volleyball season. While discussing her thoughts regarding next season’s NA team, Elizabeth says, “I think the whole team is going to miss seniors Carly, Gracie, Navya, and Jackie a lot next year. They were truly amazing, but I am also excited to welcome new players from JV next season, and I am confident it will be a good one!” Elizabeth’s positive nature and quiet confidence bode well for not only her individual success, but  for the NA volleyball program as well.

Jacey Sullivan ’15, Field Hockey (Madison)

Don’t underestimate freshman field hockey player Jacey Sullivan! With her strong field presence, she has recently wrapped up an amazing fall season. As a tough defensive competitor, she has proven to be an undeniable asset to the team. Jacey has been an avid participant in the sport of field hockey since the age of 10, and she plans on playing throughout high school. As she reflects upon this past season, Jacey comments on the closeness of the team members, saying, “We were a 19 person team, which is extremely small, considering how much running happens on the field! However, we embraced our small size and enjoyed our time together. I can’t recall a practice we didn’t laugh.” Jacey’s versatility allowed her to dominate the field as both a sweeper and a fullback. When asked about her favorite game this season, she laughed and answered, “Definitely Governor Livingston… we played really well as a unit in a pressure situation.” With regard to the future of NA field hockey, Jacey adds, “I am looking forward to playing hard and doing our best as a team!” Watch out for this field hockey phenomenon as she continues to greatly impact the NA program!