Photos by Malachi Conrad.
Red Devils fall to New Albany in Saturday’s sectional
Category: Sports
Red Devils face sectional challenge on Saturday
Volleyball team places New Albany for chance to play for sectional title
by Austin Bainbridge
The Jeff girls’ volleyball team has a chance to win the sectional championship by just winning two games today. They will play a 8-23 New Albany squad, which has been 2-14 since Sept. 22. Then, if Jeff wins they will take on the winner of a Seymour (10-18) and Floyd Central (26-5) contest.
“Only being two wins away (from the championship) is really exciting, and I think we have a good shot to go all the way,” said coach Wes Briscoe.
Players like junior outside hitter Jayli Burris feel the excitement around this team for an opportunity like this after finishing the regular season 10-20.
“We’re all feeling really hyped right now and we’re really excited about being able to get out there against New Albany and giving them a good game,” said Burris.
Burris boasts the second most kills for the Red Devils with 136 on the year, and she’s ready to keep the momentum going in this weekend’s playoffs.
“I know personally and as a team, we’ve been swinging harder than we have all season, and we’re going to hit well against New Albany,” said Burris.
Jeff has had a week to prepare and watch film on their opponents on Saturday and are ready to use that knowledge.
“We’ve been watching film all week, and I think we’re really prepared — we know their defense, Floyd also I’m feeling pretty good and prepared,” said sophomore Jordyn Miller.
Briscoe hopes that with the extra preparation the term “prepared” will be understatement for this team.
“The greatest coach of all time, John Wooden, said he wants his team to be so prepared he could be a spectator while they play and not have to coach. I’m hoping we can have something like that on Saturday,” Briscoe said.
Red Devil fans can listen to the game on 98.5 Jeff FM this Saturday at 11 a.m. and then 6 p.m. if Jeff advances.
Cheers!
Junior Reese Dobson displays leadership on the mat and in the classroom
by Eliza Wooden
As cheerleader and junior Reese Dobson steps onto the mat, she yells out to her teammates, “You’ve got this! Let’s go, Jeff,” and steps into position.
The music begins, and Dobson is prepared. She is tight, supportive, and ready to do whatever it takes to end this routine on a high note.
“I make sure I come to practice with a good attitude and a good work ethic, and make sure that I am here to be positive, happy, help others, and work as hard as I can,” said Dobson.
Dobson is a leader and a strong representative for JHS, often friendly, extroverted, and compassionate, especially toward underclassmen.
Freshman Jamie Hatton said, “Reese is very kind, outgoing, smart, and positive. I have known Reese for about one year, and she has helped me be more confident in myself.”
Dobson is not just involved in cheerleading; she is also a student ambassador. That’s where she gets most of her leadership experience.
Senior Averi Burdette said, “Reese improves the cheer team by always having an outstanding attitude and being a great team leader. She encourages everyone and helps keep the team motivated, even when things get stressful or difficult.”
Dobson cares a lot about her school work, which is why she works to balance her student ambassador work, classes, and cheerleading with her roles as Junior Class president and Student Council.
Dobson said, “The most important thing is remembering to take a break sometimes and relax. Something that I struggle with is doing too many things at a time and letting it affect how I do those things and letting it get in my head.”
Adding to her busy schedule, Dobson takes Advanced Placement classes, which can be very hard for a student-athlete.
“My AP classes require a lot of studying, and I make sure to set off time aside each night to go over what I learned or what I need to prepare for a test,” she said.
That discipline shows up everywhere. Whether she’s in class, at a student ambassador event, or leading a Student Council meeting, teachers and teammates say Dobson brings the same energy she brings to the mat.
While some athletes focus only on the routine, Dobson checks in on teammates and runs through the cheer again with anyone who might have missed a count.
That mindset has made her a role model and leader. For underclassmen, she isn’t just the upperclassman who can hit a stunt; she’s the person who will help with homework or hype them up before their next varsity game.
Dobson said, “Something that I do is take a second and remember that everything is going to work out and that it’s okay if things get stressful or hard. I always want to do everything with my best intent, so sometimes the best thing for you to do is to take breaks and come back to it.”
When the music stops and Dobson steps off the mat, her job as a leader isn’t over. She immediately high-fives her teammates and tells them how well they did. Tight, ready, and positive, just like she started.
Freshman Cora Holt brings positive work ethic to cheerleading
by Evelyn Speedy
Freshman cheerleader Cora Holt walks in to practice, adjusts her backpack on her shoulder, and then sits down to warm up, preparing herself for a successful, productive practice.
On first thought, you might think that she is just there to cheer on the football and basketball players.
However, what some people don’t know is that she is much more than that.
Not only does Holt cheer on the sidelines, but she also competes with her team and puts in the work to get better everyday, all while being on four separate teams at JHS.
“Cheerleading is not just a club; it’s way harder than it looks,” said Holt.
Even when Holt was a little kid joining Jeff High’s cheer kiddie clinic, she has seen herself being a cheerleader in the future.
“High school cheer is something I’ve looked forward to for years, and now I finally get to be a part of it,” she said.
Even though this is Holt’s first time cheering for JHS, she still feels like she is where she should be and that she belongs both in and out of the gym.
“I enjoy being a cheerleader because it feels like my environment, it’s what I’m good at, and I truly feel like I belong there and it’s what I’m meant to do.”
Not only do her coaches feel as if she is a good teammate and cheerleader, but so do her teammates.
“She is a very good athlete with an amazing work ethic. She is always trying to get help from people and do what she can for her team,” said freshman cheerleader Adeline Bainbridge. “She brings a positive attitude everyday, even on hard practices she is always there and trying to uplift everyone.”
However, Holt did not get to where she is without putting in a massive amount of effort.
“Cora gives 110% effort in everything she does. She always makes sure she is doing her best, giving it her all, and she is always the first person to be willing to try something new,” said freshman cheerleader Jamie Hatton.
The work that she puts into her sport does not go unnoticed.
“I have seen her become a much stronger athlete this season and a lot more confident in herself and her skills,” said Bainbridge.
Holt also has many qualities and features that help her in the sport she loves.
“I feel as if my very loud and deep voice helps me cheer because we have to be very sharp with our voices and I think that it is something I have naturally, so it helps me be the best cheerleader I can be.”
She provided an “inside look” at the unique cheerleading experience.
“You can describe what cheer is, but you can’t describe what it feels like. That’s something you have to experience for yourself.”
At A Glance
Birthday: Feb. 11, 2012
Hometown: Jeffersonville, Indiana
Favorite Food: Caesar salad
Favorite Color: Baby blue
Favorite Movie: “Tangled“
Cheerleading provides opportunity and friendships to freshman Chloe Wyatt
by Gabriella Linares
Freshman Chloe Wyatt has just started her first year as a JHS cheerleader, but she has already begun to make an impact on all the people around her.
She may seem like just an ordinary girl who wants to cheer for the players of the school. However, there is more to her cheerleading story than it seems.
Most people wouldn’t think that she has been cheering almost all her life.
“When I was little, my mom put me into the kiddie clinic at JHS in 2018, and ever since then I fell in love with it,” stated Wyatt.
Cheer has been different for her almost everywhere she goes, but so far at JHS, it has treated her well.
“It has been fun and has helped me get to know the people and the school.”
JHS cheer has helped her in so many ways other than just getting out of her comfort zone. She has learned a lot about herself during the time she has been a cheerleader.
“Cheer helps me be myself and express my feelings and emotions. It has helped me become a better person and it’s also taught me about myself.”
Wyatt has a dream after she leaves high school, and this dream of hers still involves cheerleading.
“My dream after high school is to be a cheerleader at the University of Kentucky, be a pediatrician, and or to be on a Worlds cheerleading team.”
Outside of cheer, she is a role model to others and in general a genuine person. She strives to be understanding and helpful for others, even if she isn’t in that situation.
“I try to always be there for my friends and understand what they’re going through.”
Wyatt’s friends have learned a lot from her, like learning to be better people. They say she brings out the best in the people she is around and makes whatever room she walks in brighter.
“Chloe has taught me to just be myself no matter what others think. She brings out a different side of me. Being around Chloe makes me feel happy and safe. Every time I’m with her, I feel like I can be myself,” freshman Lailah Miller stated.
She brings a passionate smile to everyone she is around, in and out of cheer. She is filled with a bright and bubbly personality, according to her friends.
“She is a very passionate person in anything she believes. She carries a smile through everything and is confident in what she does. When I’m around her, it is constant laughter and smiles,” said freshman Willow Williams.
Cheer is always seen as an extracurricular activity, but to Wyatt, it has given her lifelong friends and mentors.
“My coaches and teammates are always there for me and show up when I need them.”
At A Glance
Birthday: Feb. 9, 2012
Favorite Color: Pink
Dream College: IU
Favorite Drink: Cotton Candy Alani
Favorite Subject: Math
Deep Dive
Junior Clara Theriault uses discipline to balance swimming and academics
by Lorelei Bingham
With each stroke, junior Clara Theriault makes her way across the pool.
Students might see Theriault in the hallway and assume she’s just like any other student. However, that’s not quite the full picture.
“Being a student-athlete is more challenging mentally than physically. You have to balance everything. You have to have time to swim and time to work. If you can’t find the time, you have to make it,” said Theriault
Despite the challenges of being a student-athlete, Theriault continues to stay motivated.
“Just knowing how hard the practice is on paper, I know I’m going to get something out of it. We can always laugh about it later,” she shared. “The girls on the swim team also help me stay motivated. The environment the team has is just so positive.”
Beyond her dedication to swimming, Theriault is also known for her personality.
Theriault’s former teammate and 2026 graduate Adelaide Bingham describes her as “encouraging, cheerful, inclusive, and always looking out for others.”
Her kindness also has a positive impact on those around her.
“Clara makes me feel like I don’t have to worry about anything. She also taught me to look out for others,” stated freshman Bristol Cain.
Outside of the pool, Theriault faces another important responsibility being a student ambassador.
“I’m a student ambassador because I believe every school should have representation. Having students who are considered some of the best at Jeff shows that we aren’t just a fight school. Yes, there are fights, but having a group of leaders to really show what JHS stands for is important.”
Theriault uses her leadership skills in and out of school. She positively impacts all of her teammates’ lives.
Bingham stated, “Clara has taught me to look out for others and show empathy. She also taught me to be selfless and help others when they are in need. When you are kind to Clara, she never fails to pass it on to another person. She’s like a bubble of joy.”
Theriault’s dedication to her team reflects the life lessons she has learned through swimming, which extend far beyond the pool.
“Swimming has taught me lots of discipline,” said Theriault. “No matter how hard something looks, you can always beat the challenge. It’s just a mental game and stepping out of your comfort zone.”
Through swimming, leadership, and her relationship with others, Theriault is someone who strives to make a positive difference both in and out of the pool.
Persistence and personality helps freshman swimmer Lily Eaves adjust to high school
by Evangeline Hertweck
As the buzzer goes off, freshman Lily Eaves dives into the pool confidently.
“I love swimming because of how weightless I feel in the water,” Eaves said.
Eaves is ready to jump from the diving board. She looks persistent. She looks excited. She looks ready. She is used to this; however, there are new swimmers at the pool.
“Start slow and practice a lot. You need practice to perfect your moves,” she advised.
Eaves swims through the water effortlessly, making it look easy to beginners. Everyone cheers, but the swimmer’s mother’s voice cuts through the crowd.
“My mom is my biggest supporter because I can talk to her about anything, and she cheers me on the most,” Eaves stated.
Even though Eaves isn’t new to swimming, she is definitely new to JHS. Freshmen must get used to a drastically new schedule, making new friends, and showing up to class on time. For Eaves, this is a change.
“There is definitely a difference in maturity, as people connect in unique ways at different life stages. Maturity influences how we communicate and support one another, affecting the quality of our relationships,” she said.
As the school days go by, Eaves starts to see that JHS isn’t all that different from Parkview Middle School. The familiar dynamics of friendships and social groups make her feel more at ease as she adjusts to this new environment.
“High school made me realize that no one really cares what you do. Be your own person; a good one,” she said.
Eaves enjoys high school, especially social studies. The subject’s focus on history and cultures makes learning exciting and fun.
“I love social studies because if you have a good teacher, they make learning more interesting and more fun.”
Freshman Carlee Solomon is one of Eaves’ closest and best friends.
“Lily has always been an amazing friend to me; we’ve been close since we met in first grade,” Solomon said, looking back on their long friendship.
Even on her tough days, Eaves has a special way of making everyone smile. Her cheerful laugh and friendly personality brighten the mood in any room, making people feel welcome.
“Lily is a really good person and a sweet friend. She knows how to make me happy, especially when I’m feeling sad,” Solomon said.
The two friends have shared many laughs and great times together, both at school and outside of it.
“I remember one night I went to her house. We baked a big batch of cookies, and afterward, we danced and sang our favorite songs in her kitchen. It was such a fun night, and it’s a memory I’ll always hold dear,” Solomon recalled.
Eaves has plenty of friends, in and outside of school. She participates in several different activities like Girl Scouts, swimming, and just being outside in general, helping her connect with others who share the same interests, including with freshman Lorelei Bingham.
“I know Lily from school and swim. I don’t have any classes with her, but I would still consider her a good friend,” said Bingham.
Reflecting on Eaves’ influence, Bingham said she has the ability to uplift everyone around her. It’s like she carries a little sunshine with her wherever she goes.
“Lily brings positivity. She will always make you feel better if you’re sad. She will always be your little cheerleader.”
Rivalry Win
Red Devils defeat New Albany 41-22 in fall break football victory
All photos by Mason Ridge.
Red Devils defeat Salem 5-1 last night
Photos by Shelby Keesee.
JHS defeats Silver Creek 2-0 during Monday’s Senior Night
Photos by Isaiah Stewart and Parker McCloskey.
Floyd Central defeats JHS soccer 9-0 last night
Photos by Malachi Conrad.
New Pace
Cross country team adjusts to recent coaching change
by Isaiah Gatton and Elijah Lahrman
The foundation of the cross country team was established as a strong program, but the team has had to adjust to recent coaching changes.
The team is now under the guidance of Coach Carlis Phillips, who has a background in sprinting and hurdles, bringing a new perspective to the program and enhancing it with the experience he has accumulated throughout the six years he has worked at Jeff High.
“I’ve been coaching for some time. I have been at Jeff for the last six years, working as the sprint coach for 4-5 years. I have a sprint background, hurdle background; I’m up for the challenge to try and build our little distance and cross country team to be as competitive as our sprinters,” he said.
His goal for the rest of the season is to get the cross country team in a competitive mindset, having the hunger to push past limits and barriers.
Phillips has also introduced new expectations for the team, including recommending runners purchase watches to track their mileage and implementing mile warm-ups and cool-downs. He views the season as an educational journey as he continues to guide the team.
“It is an educational thing, what a high performing cross country team looks like,” he said. “Just recently I recommended that they should invest in a running watch. Tracking is a big part of running. There are some foundation pieces that I’m implementing as well. Giving them information and knowledge about what a successful cross country runner looks like. I’m going to coach everyone in here like a champion. I do want them to be challenged, feel the tug and pull of what a successful runner looks like.”
With the change in coaching has come a change in training. Compared to previous seasons, runners have noticed more intervals, sprinting, and strength-focused workouts.
“We do a lot more intervals instead of just long-distance runs,” sophomore varsity runner Micah Nef said. “A lot of it is just focusing on speed work instead of distance.”
For some runners, the new training has been challenging but has provided an opportunity to develop different skills. Senior varsity runner Nathan Scovanner said he likes the balance between speed and endurance.
“I like that part, because we do need to build up some speed,” Scovanner said. “If we mix in both speed and endurance, we’ll become better runners overall, because we’ll have that speed and still be able to keep our speed going through our races.”
Junior Marcus Baker has also started to enjoy the new sprint-focused workouts. Having previously run sprints in middle school, Baker said the new practices have brought back something he enjoyed.
“I feel like every day when we’re on that track, he pushes us,” Baker said. “It feels good running sprints.”
However, not every runner has found the transition easy. Some athletes said they preferred aspects of former Coach Sam Mull’s approach, particularly his emphasis on endurance and the mental side of running. They are adjusting, though.
“I think it’s weird having a different coach, but it’s good to learn different things from multiple people,” Nef said.
Nef said her times felt faster when the team focused more on endurance training, although she acknowledged the new training has been more challenging.
Senior runner Lizeth Gonzalez said she sees value in both coaching styles.
“I like both of them,” Gonzalez said. “Whenever you do compete in a 5k, you do need the strength to push yourself. But at the same time, when you do long mileage, the three miles start becoming easier in a way.”
For Gonzalez, one of the biggest differences between Mull and Phillips is how they approach athletes mentally.
“Coach Mull taught us in more of a mental type of way, but also physical, and Coach Phillips is more of a physical type of coach,” Gonzalez said.
She said she would like to see the strengths of both coaches combined.
“I would enjoy having, of course, Coach Mull back, and have both of them as coaches,” Gonzalez said. “I know both of them could allow us to become better athletes because they both can focus on our weaknesses and strengths.”
The coaching change has also affected some of the traditions and activities that helped bring the team together. Nef said Mull was known for organizing additional activities that were not necessarily required but helped create connections among teammates.
“He was really good at getting things done and doing extra things that weren’t necessary,” Nef said, referring to activities such as a 24-hour relay that has been recently canceled.
Despite the changes, Nef said the team has remained close, with the team captain helping maintain that connection.
“We still have a good team captain, so we’re still close,” Nef said.
Other runners are looking toward what Phillips’s experience could bring to the program. Phillips’ background in track has given him experience working with athletes who specialize in speed, something that some runners believe could help the cross-country team develop.
“I do think so,” Scovanner said when asked if Phillips’s reputation would help the program. “I think it will bring some more people to the team, possibly. He also does have some experience, but cross country is a new thing to him, I’m sure that’s not going to affect him.”
Gonzalez also believes Phillips’s experience could bring more recognition to the program.
“I believe we are going to get more support,” Gonzalez said. “I feel like Coach Phillips has a good history with training athletes, sending them to state, and being able to train them. And I believe it will allow us to get a little bit more recognition as a team.”
For Scovanner, the transition has been a process. As a senior running cross-country for his second year, he said he initially had concerns about what the coaching change would mean for the team.
“At first, I was a little skeptical,” Scovanner said. “I didn’t know how everything was going to play out. I had a lot of doubts in my mind.”
As the season has progressed, however, Scovanner said he has become more comfortable with Phillips’s approach.
“I had faith, and so far, everything’s turned out really well,” Scovanner said. “I really like everything that’s been going on.”
While athletes have different opinions about the new direction, the team is continuing to adjust as the season progresses. Phillips’s emphasis on speed, strength, and competitiveness has created a different training environment, while runners continue to carry lessons from previous seasons.
Volleyball team faces Floyd Central tonight
Red Devils play Providence on Thursday in week of formidable opponents
by Austin Bainbridge
The JHS girls’ volleyball team snapped an eight-game losing streak against Madison and now faces Floyd Central today.
The Highlanders have not lost a game in over two weeks — to the same team JHS plays Thursday: Providence.
“I do feel a little underprepared, but I’m hoping we can get a win in at least one win of these two games. If we do that I’d call it a success,” said sophomore outside hitter Audrey Cheshire.
On Thursday’s sweep of Madison, the sole senior on the team, Mattie Barker, had her own student section and was thrilled about it.
“I loved my Senior Night. It was so cool seeing everybody show up just for me. It felt really special and amazing,” said Barker.
Barker, one of the most trusted backrow players on the team, is going to have to handle spikes from Floyd’s Georgia Tech commit Macy Sorg.
“That’s going to be a hard one. I just have to do my best reading her and hope for a little help for some tips or blocks up front,” said Barker.
The team expects outside hitter Jayli Burris to continue the tear she’s been on, including a 10-kill performance against New Albany.
“I think I’m going to keep it going. I don’t know why it took so long to get going, but I’m going to keep it going,” said Burris.
Even principal Pam Hall has her attention on the program this week and what a win could do for the team.
“Well, to be the best you have to play the best, and I really hope we can get one this week. That would be really big for these girls and I’d love to see it,” said Hall.
Both Floyd Central and Providence are formidable opponents, and coach Wes Briscoe is aware.
“They’re both such strong teams. Floyd is one of the best teams in the region, and they’ve really only lost to Providence around here, so this is going to be a tough one this week.”
Jeff plays Floyd Central at 7:30 p.m. at Jeffersonville.
Two Teams. One Big Matchup.
Red Devils face Floyd Central Tuesday in Hoosier Hills Conference showdown
by Layney Derricott
The Red Devils soccer team enters an important Hoosier Hills Conference match with Floyd Central tonight at 4-5-1 (1-3-1 in the HHC). Both teams look to add another win to their resumes, making this an exciting matchup.
Coach Rachel Foster shared that challenges are something the team will have to face and overcome while battling the Highlanders, currently 9-5-1 and 5-0 in the HHC.
“We will need to keep up our speed of play. Floyd is a fast team, and they move quickly. We will need to move just as quickly as them, beat them to the ball, and be ready when they’re attacking,” Foster stated.
Floyd Central is a high-speed team. JHS will not only have to keep up with their speed, but their attitudes as well. Senior and team captain Abi Lemon said tomorrow’s game will be a mental challenge.
“Our team will have to overcome the stigma. Have the ability to deal with people commenting on the differences between the two teams, not letting negative words knock us down. Holding our heads up high with good morale,” Lemon said.
Foster said preparation for a team in an intense rivalry game is important.
“We’ve been getting the formation down, being sure to move the ball quickly. Move just as fast as Floyd will. Every year we have a new team, new people to work with, and get accustomed to.”
As the Red Devils prepare for the pace of the game, staying focused, and counting on each other, their focus now shifts to executing that preparation.
Sophomore Haylee Alvarenga said once the game starts this focus must include “making sure to stay on defense for the first half. Along with keeping up a positive attitude, to not get discouraged early on. Keeping a defensive team.”
This defensive mentality affects the team as a whole, but leadership from individual players can make just as much of an impact.
Sophomore Jacqueline Escobar mentioned one person who can be trusted to hold everybody accountable while displaying a positive attitude.
“Abi Lemon knows how to work well with everyone. She’s always available when needed, gives good advice, and knows how to bring you back down when things get intense,” Escobar stated.
Senior and team captain Laela Rudicel said the Red Devils are prepared mentally and physically for the challenging game with the Highlanders.
Being mentally and physically ready is only one part of the challenge; the team will mainly rely on its communication throughout the game, according to senior defender Alianna Brown.
“Communicating, along with being there for each other,”said Brown. “Being able to call on anyone; specifically sophomore Sonnie Darku, to switch positions with me. Letting others know when there’s someone approaching or coming for the ball.”
Red Devils soccer takes on the Highlanders tonight at 7 p.m at the JHS soccer field.
Wrestling coach trains Red Devils athletes to be physically,mentally stronger
by Isabella Stewart and May Smith
For Coach Daniel Struck, coaching is about more than sports. Struck has said, ¨It is about helping students become stronger, more confident, and better versions of themselves.”
Struck has spent many years working with athletes and coaching different sports. He spent 28 years as a teacher and 30 years as a coach. During his time as a coach, he has worked with wrestling and football. His experience has allowed him to work with many students and help them reach their goals.
Sophomore sports performance athlete Braylen Martin said, “Coach has helped me reach my goals in track and field, allowing me to become such a stronger version of myself, and I thank him for taking that time with me.¨
One of the main reasons Struck coaches is that he wants to see kids become stronger and healthier. He said that training can help athletes both physically and mentally. His goal is not simply to make students better at their sport, but to teach them lessons they can use outside of athletics as well.
Junior wrestler John Steele said, “Struck is serious but very caring and is determined to help. Struck has helped redirect me when I’ve needed it and always reminds me to focus on myself.¨
Student athletes who have worked with Struck describe him as someone who cares about the people around him. Martin, for example, sees him as someone who is encouraging.
¨Struck’s humor helps make training more enjoyable and motivates me to be more active. His willingness to help students learn their rhythm shows that he focuses on individual athletes instead of treating everyone the same,” he said.
Other athletes have noticed the same qualities. Sophomore swimmer Charlie Frakes described the coach as someone who cares about his students. He added that working with him through sports has helped him become stronger and overcome challenges.
Sophomore sports performance athlete Rylan Humphreys described Struck as welcoming, understanding, and supportive. According to Humphreys, “Struck’s guidance has helped me become faster and stronger while also showing me I can accomplish difficult things when I put my mind to them.”
For Struck, the relationships he builds with his athletes appear to be just as important as the training itself. His years of coaching have given him the opportunity to influence athletes and help them develop confidence, discipline, and perseverance.
