Black and Gold
May 5, 2023
EVAN ERICKSON
Boys Volleyball
There is nothing that gives Evan Erickson (12) more joy in a volleyball game than yelling for his teammates. Since joining the program as a freshman, he’s found his niche as a starting middle, leader, team beacon of spirit, and number-one source of rallying cries.
“Coming together after every play is really important,” Erickson said. “It’s about seeing what we did well, did wrong, and reflecting.”
As a middle, Erickson is the first line of defense against hits coming in from the opposing team. He denies them spikes and sends the ball barrelling back into their court, always accompanied by a shout of victory.
“If we need a clutch hit to stay in the game, or we need to turn the tide and gain momentum, that’s when we set [Erickson], because we know he’ll get us that point,” [position] Michael Braun (12) said. “He’s crazy, charismatic and energetic.”
The rest of the team shares this admiration. Erickson is the team’s glue.
“I only need one word to describe [Erickson],” head coach Mike Amonette said. “Unbelievable.”
Macy Ratermann
Track and Field
A background of playing soccer for 10 years has propelled Macy Ratermann (10) to become a high-achieving sprinter in track and field this year, her first season ever competing in the sport. Despite her personal record of 12.74 in the 100-meter dash, April 5, Ratermann said her most memorable achievement this season so far was attending the Jaguar Invitational morning session, April 15, at Valley Center. There, she came 2nd in the 200-meter dash’s top heat and achieved a PR of 25.80.
Nia Thompson (10) said that Ratermann has quickly learned the ins and outs of the sport and is now an asset to the team.
“She’s a well-rounded runner,” Thompson said. “She comes to as many practices as she can and she’s really hard-working and determined.”
Ethan Ferreira
Swim and Dive
In his first year on the dive team, Ethan Ferreira (9) has inspired his teammates with his growth over a short period of time.
“His diving is amazing,” Ethan Madrideo (11) said. “[When he started,] he [would] come to practice and learn two or three new dives every time.”
Ferreira was one of the only Westview competitors at the Fallbrook meet, April 1, because only he and dive captain Chloe Kaelin can perform 11 dives. At usual meets, they only require divers to know six dives.
“[Ferreira] had to start like everyone else but has by far learned the most,” Kaelin said. “In his first year of dive, he’s already learning the front-double, which I didn’t get until my second year. It’s [been] amazing to see him improve because when he’s [at practice], he puts all of his effort into it.”
Bryce Carter
Boys Lacrosse
Bryce Carter (12) started playing lacrosse in second grade. Throughout middle school and four years on the Westview lacrosse team, Carter has remained with the sport, making the varsity team in his sophomore year and being selected as captain for this season. His role on the team enables him to help manage others on the field.
“I play crease defense,” Carter said. “As a captain, I often help people out with where they need to be and when they need to slide. I can see every position from the middle.”
Teammate Bubba Blazer (12) met Carter through lacrosse when they were both in elementary school.
“He’s a great guy, super respectable, and on the field, he’s a great player,” Blazer said. “He’s good at being a leader, raising his voice, and getting things done. He just makes things happen on the field.”
Chloe Nguyen
Girls Lacrosse
Defensive midfielder Chloe Nguyen’s (12) six years of experience in the sport has allowed her to develop defensive skills that she implements during games and practices.
Once she gets on the field, she immediately tunes into the game in order to bring her full effort and show up for her team. Her dedication to the sport is heavily valued by her teammates.
“[Nguyen] is a joy to be around on and off the field,” attacker Emma Alexander (12) said. “She is always there to defend the goal and isn’t afraid to stop the ball.”
Nguyen is also a very motivated and skilled leader who knows how to help her teammates.
“She is very positive and supportive,” defender Avery Deigan (11) said. “[Nguyen is] always willing to help someone and accept any challenges that she faces.”