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T-Bolts Lighting Up the Track
By Shelby Oliver
Staff Writer
After weeks of pre-season workouts, the Andrew Boys Track Team has had an amazing start to their 2026 competitions, with many individuals achieving impressive school and personal records. Since the beginning of the indoor season, here are some highlights of the team’s athletes:
Regarding the success of Andrew’s distance team, 4x800 team Caden Wolfe, Evan Misura, Gabe Govea, and Jack Radtke broke the Andrew school record by over ten seconds with a time of 7:59.24 at the 22nd Annual Downers Grove South Mustang Relays at North Central College. This sub-eight time also placed the team as #7 in the state and surpassed the qualifying time to participate in the upcoming state competition. Additionally regarding distance, upperclassmen Jack Radtke, Jameson O'Reilly, Evan Misura, and Gabe Govea brought home first place at the Burlington Central Boy’s Rocket Invite in the 4000m relay, an event that combines the 1200, 400, 800, and 1600 races.
Equally successful, senior thrower Judah Van Engen has already broken the shot put indoor school record with a distance of 54 feet 9 inches. This throw gave Judah a first place finish at the 3A Boys Olivet Nazarene Highschool Classic and the position as Illinois’s #17 in the shot put event. Continually showing success, Judah has also committed to throw following high school at the University of Memphis, which competes in the NCAA Division I American Athletic Conference.
Spotlighting the team as a whole, the entire team brought home a first place finish at the Reavis Co-Ed Invite. Additionally, on March 13th, the Bolts achieved a third place ranking at the Burlington Central Boy’s Rocket Invite.
In all, the T-Bolts cannot wait to transition into the outdoor competition season to continue achieving faster times and impressive feats. Make sure to support the team at their upcoming competitions!
Lollapalooza Lineup
By James Abraham
Editor-in-Chief
Headliners: Who I’m Looking Forward To
Headliners: Who I’m Looking Forward To
Charli xcx and Lorde headlining is incredibly exciting, being very popular and talented artists. With recently made albums under their belt, brat and Virgin namely, they have a lot of material to give to the audience. Charli in particular is an amazing performer, and her club and hyperpop music is guaranteed to bring a party wherever it’s played. I’m a big fan of Melodrama by Lorde, but a lot of songs she has are more somber rather than invigorating. I would prefer songs like “Green Light”, “Perfect Places”, and “Ribs” over “Sober” or “David.”
Neutral Headliners
Neutral Headliners
For reasons of me not knowing or caring about these artists, I am neutral about John Summit, Jennie, The Smashing Pumpkins, and The XX. I have heard many of these artists before, such as Jennie’s 2025 album Ruby, and while I’m not particularly excited, I’m happy for the fans of these musicians.
Headerliners: I Wish Someone Else Was Here
Headerliners: I Wish Someone Else Was Here
Now I don’t like to talk down on artists, but headlining is a huge honor and immense job to tackle. Picking new generation artists Tate McRae and Olivia Dean to headline is something I don’t agree with. Quality wise, they are both lacking in popular songs and discography to choose from. As a performer, Tate’s dancing background might be able to save her but Olivia is immensely boring. While she sounds good live, she’s not very showy, and instead, she’s more reserved and demure on the stage. That doesn’t sound like a good headliner to me.
Other Artists
Other Artists
As usual, there are so many performing artists besides the headliners. The best thing about this is that everyone can have a favorite here, even smaller artists are brought here. To start off my personal standouts, Lil Uzi Vert is a very popular artist and a great performer. His latest albums have all been great and no one who’s been to his concerts have had anything but a great time. Turnstile, in the same vein, outputs great quality music all the time. Their loud rock is going to require earplugs, but it’ll be super fun to experience. Geese is much more lowkey as a rock group, Their album Getting Killed is a wonder to view live. They may not seem like it, but they’re a very enthusiastic group. MUNA is the definition of basic pop, but their writing and vibrant instrumental makes them a perfect group to listen to live. The DJ Ninairachi, similar to Charli, makes club and hyperpop music. You can’t go wrong with that at a concert, especially if you’re as talented as Nina. I’ve been following Blood Orange since I heard Chamakey, and I’ve been enthralled ever since. He is an exceptional singer, songwriter, producer, and performer. My friends who’ve been to his concerts before say it was one of their favorites. Oklou’s music is amazing, but I’m worried her lo-fi electronic music won’t be as engaging as the other acts at Lollapalooza. In the same vein, Water From Your Eyes’s droll stream of consciousness might not bode well among an excited, crazed crowd.
Day Rankings
Day Rankings
Unfortunately, time and other limitations mean that you can’t experience all the artists in one day. As the artists are portioned between four days, you have to be careful about which day you choose to come as tickets are very expensive.
Friday: Charl xcx headlining can already seal this as the best day, but on top of her you have Lil Uzi Vert, Zara Larson, and Not For Radio. This is a clear frontrunner with a variety of amazing artists to choose from.
Thursday: The standouts here are Lorde and John Summit headliners, along with Sombr, Wet Leg, Blood Orange, and Audrey Hobert
Sunday: Tate McRae, Turnstile, Beabadoobee, Aespa, The Chainsmokers, Muna, and Fakemink are all great performers, and a lot of the performers on Sunday are tried and true with their quality
Saturday: This day is underwhelming. The headliners are nothing to gawk at, and some of the other artists like bbno$ and Trixie Mattel feel like jokes. Still, there’s a wide selection for a variety of people to enjoy, and performers like Geese, Clipse, and Quedeca will be exciting to see.
Athletic Director Recognition
Athletic Director Recognition
By Elena Aviles
Assistant Editor-in-Chief
Earlier this month, two T-Bolt athletes were recognized for their outstanding achievements and incredible work ethic. On March 16, cross country and soccer athlete Natalie Orbon and cross country and track athlete Caden Wolfe were awarded with the prestigious All-State recognition from the Illinois Athletic Directors Association (IADA). This recognition was given to athletes who embodied values of hard work and dedication in both athletics and in their communities. On their teams, they practice good sportsmanship and leadership. Their effort is reflected in their skill and accomplishments, as both athletes ran at cross country Sectionals, and Caden Wolfe ran a personal record of 14:51 at IHSA State senior cross country season. Their work ethic and persistence as athletes and members of the community deserves to be recognized. Let’s take a look at their excellent athletic careers!
Caden Wolfe:
How did you feel when receiving this recognition? What did it represent for you?
I was really surprised, honestly. Never would I have thought that I could get such an achievement, and I'm very honored to be receiving such a prestigious award. It really represented all of the hard work that I dedicated to my sport and also in the classroom.
Which aspect of your athletic career are you most proud of?
The aspect I’m most proud of in my athletic career would be trying to be the best role model I can for many of the younger guys on our team in order to help them be the best they can be.
What kind of work ethic and dedication was necessary to achieve this success?
The biggest thing that I applied to both my athletic and academic careers was just doing things 100%. Like if you are going to dedicate yourself to something 20+ hours a week, why not give everything to that sport or activity? Academics also correlates heavily with athletics mainly because you need to find a good balance between both so you are not overwhelmed.
Who is someone who has been inspirational to your athletic career?
Someone who has been very inspirational to my athletic career would be my coaches who have found a way to motivate and inspire me even when things get difficult, as well as my parents for teaching me to have a good work ethic from a very young age.
Are you continuing your athletic journey in college? Which school?
Yes, I am continuing my athletic and academic career at DePaul University. I’m also going to major in special education.
What are you hoping to get out of athletics in college?
I am hoping to just continue to make friends and memories through this sport. The absolute best times I’ve had in high school have been on and off the track and cross country course, so to be able to continue that for another four years is very special to me.
What message do you have for younger athletes at Andrew?
Similar to what I said earlier, if you’re going to do something, do it to the best of your ability. Because you have no idea what can happen from hard work and dedication. Also, I would say find what you enjoy and are good at. For me that was running, but for you that can be something totally different.
Congratulations to both athletes!
LEARN A NEW SKILL
LEARN A NEW SKILL
Spring is an ideal time for learning something new. Learning isn't just about picking up a new skill but letting yourself make mistakes and grow.
We have all waited for spring. Warmer weather (sometimes), longer days, blooming flowers, and a promise of a new season is upon us. Now that we are out of the house, what should we do?
Here are some low or no cost activities that will bring you out of that winter funk and having you looking toward brighter days ahead.
CATCH UP
CATCH UP
As the school year winds down, you can catch up on all the things you've missed out on. Binge that show you've been eyeing or pick up that book you've meaning to read.
ADOPT A NEW HOBBY
Spring is all about new beginnings and growth,. Use this time to take on something you've been interested in. Do you like taking pictures? Start doing some research on photography and get outside to take photos. Have you always enjoyed the night sky? Take up stargazing! It doesn't matter what you do, just make sure it is something you enjoy (and bonus points if it is outside).
FIND YOUR FITNESS
Being inside for months can take a toll on our healthy habits. Use the beginning of the season to spring into reigniting your health. Start a fitness journey by developing a new workout routine, drink lots of water, and even enlist a friend to join you.
BECOME ONE WITH NATURE
There is never a better time to get out and experience the world around you than spring. Grab a friend and find a local park, forest preserve, or walking trail to breathe in the fresh air we have missed for months. Come up with games like spotting a specific bird breed or just enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.
GET THOSE SERVICE HOURS
You will need to complete at least 25 hours for graduation. Whether you are a freshman or a senior, service hours are going to be due before you know it. Get a jump on it early this spring. Stop by the Community Service Office for information on local service opportunities.
T-Bolts Freeze to Support Illinois Special Olympics
By Shelby Oliver
Staff Writer
Photos by James Abraham
In the weeks approaching Spring Break, the VJA students and staff worked hard to support our community. Specifically this month, our VJA family raised over $35,000 for the Illinois Special Olympics. This remarkable accomplishment was achieved in multiple ways, with the most popular being students and staff plunging after school on March 11. From wearing costumes to cannonballing, the VJA community came together to freeze for a reason in 34 degree weather. Students and staff were able to plunge as individuals or join together with their club or sport to create a team of plungers. Senior, Savannah Myles, raised the most funds individually, totalling $1,100 in donations. Additionally, Andrew’s National Honors Society raised the most funds as a team, accumulating $7,623 towards supporting Illinois athletes. Overall, VJA’s 2026 Polar Plunge was a tremendous success that brought the Andrew community together for an amazing cause.
Formula 1 Circuit: March (2026)
By Erick Santiago
Staff Writer
F1 BREAKING NEWS: Following tensions in the middle east and the ongoing war in Iran, with Iran attacking its neighbors and U.S. military bases in the region, Formula One Management and the FIA have reached an agreement to not go racing in April. The decision is understandable considering the only two races lined up for April were scheduled to be in Sakhir, Bahrain, and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This comes after rumors that suggested the two grand prix's cancellation, but also tracks to replace their absences from the Formula One calendar to give fans some racing in April. Instead, there will be no racing in April, making fans wait a month for racing action to return from the 29th of March at Suzuka for the Japanese Grand Prix to the 1st-3rd of May for the Miami Grand Prix weekend. You can read more about the decision here: https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/bahrain-and-saudi-arabian-grands-prix-will-not-take-place-in-april.1hnqllVG85RSt8pbFc5Ivx. Make sure to check in regularly at formula1.com in case the decision is reversed, with substitutions being made. Unfortunately, that will be all for this month; I hope to see you all next month as F1 prepares to go racing in Miami.
SENIOR SURVEY: What are you most excited about for next year?
Being with my team and becoming independent.
-Josie
Attending the University of Illinois - Evan
The ability to build my own schedule
-Marcel
Walking around campus, the feeling of the city
-Malik
To sleep in every day and learn social studies -Grayden I'm excited to meet new people and experience new things. - Francesca
I'm excited to get licensed to do something I love (nail tech certification) and to also start college.
-Alyssa
I am excited to have more freedom in my learning and moving out. It feels like I am finally starting my life.
-Gabby
Study for my specific career
-Xander
I am so excited to meet new people and create a community for myself. I hope that college is my home away from home
-Katerina
One thing that I am excited about for next year is to gain new experiences and friendships! I'm also excited to get one step closer to my career.
-Claire
I'm excited to be independent and travel to different places for soccer. - Emily
College in the city
-Audrey
The freedom of college
-Ahmad
I'm excited for big football games and rushing for Greek life at UK!
-Emma
Starting a new chapter of my life
-Mariam
Volleyball
-Prestyn
Women’s History Month 2026
Women’s History Month 2026
By Roxanne Moraga
Staff Writer
March is Women’s History Month, a monthly celebration of the accomplishments and achievements of all women from the past and present. This year’s theme is “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future,” which focuses on the appreciation of women who work towards helping the world environmentally, economically, educationally, and through social justice movements. There were many women who shaped the world and many who continue to shape it today, but here are just a few examples for each topic:
Environment: Greta Thunberg is a Swedish teenager and an environmental activist. At 16 years old, Thunberg founded a school strike for the climate. Many students joined her locally, and then around the world. Although she did not win the Nobel Peace Prize, she was considered for a nomination.
Economics: Joan Robinson, an economist from Britain, contributed to monetary economics, economic development, and game theory. She wrote a book The Economics of Imperfect Competition, which changed thoughts about market analysis.
Education: Malala Yousafzai helped change global girls’ education for the better. She spoke out about equal education for everyone. The United Nations recognized July 12 as Malala Day in honor of her. Malala earned the Nobel Peace Prize in December 2014.
Social Justice: Susan B. Anthony fought for women’s rights such as the right to vote during the American Suffrage Movement in the 1800s-1900s. In addition to being a suffragist, she was also an abolitionist. Anthony also fought for the end of slavery, labor rights, and equal pay for women and men who work the same jobs.
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