Purple And White Show Their Might

By Elaina Schnurr

The F.E. Madill Secondary School hockey teams opened their season with grit and commitment, with the girls’ record of 1-3-1 and the boys' record of 1-3-0.

The F.E Madill girls' teams recently faced a tough game against St.Anne’s Catholic Secondary School, losing 4-0 in a hard-fought matchup. Despite the score, goaltenders Emma Carter and Maddi Lucas delivered exceptional performances in net, making key saves to keep the team within reach. After two tough periods, the team picked up their energy in the 3rd, stepping up their offensive energy.

Earlier this season, the girls celebrated a sweeping success during the F.E Madill Invitational Tournament, where they came out victorious against challenging opponents from Clinton, Hanover, and Walkerton. The tournament demonstrated the team's desire and determination for glory.

The F.E Madill boys’ team has also made a stomping impression. They competed in a Tournament in Listowel earlier this season, finishing fifth out of twelve teams. Their highlight from this tournament was defeating their rival, St.Mikes. The boys proved their skills and teamwork through their well-deserved victories.

As the season comes to an end, both teams continue to push themselves and improve their skills as individuals and as a whole. The players and coaches have plenty to be optimistic about for play offs. Roll Stangs!

Senior Girls Volleyball Battles Through Challenging Season

The girls’ volleyball season has begun, with the seniors already facing some challenging matches. They hit the court in St. Marys on January 13, competing against the Salukis and the South Huron Panthers. Unfortunately the Mustangs were unable to secure a win.  

The girls played back‑to‑back matchups at home the week before against teams from Stratford and Goderich. Stratford proved to be a challenging opponent, with the Mustangs dropping all three sets. They bounced back with a stronger showing against GDCI, winning their final set by four points and finishing the day on a high note.

The girls’ season began with the seniors participating in a tournament in Strathroy on Tuesday, December 9. They faced major competition from teams coming from London and Stratford. These schools have robust volleyball programs and players who also play competitively with the Ontario Volleyball Association. Although the Mustangs had a rocky start, they won 2 of their sets.  

Kailyn Armstrong and Amelia Foreman were strong servers, while Larissa Van Niekerk consistently blocked and tipped at the net. Merisa Man set the ball with accuracy, and Ella Wells showed tenacity by chasing every loose ball. Emma Carter and Regan Grubb delivered powerful hits, and Abi McLaren stood out for her communication and teamwork. Zayden Heffer brought grit and determination, and although injured, Norah Jupp attended every practice and game to support her team.

Coach Ben Price noted that the team is learning and improving each game, and as a young group they’re excited for continued growth. Staff advisor Mrs. Payne added that the team’s developing skills and strong teamwork have been clear throughout the season.

Students Spread Festive Cheer to Local Seniors 

Students from the school’s craft club, along with another volunteer student, spent part of the festive season creating handmade cards and jars of “friendship tea” for seniors living in Huron Perth County nursing homes. 

The students prepared about a dozen jars of the special tea blend, packaging it in upcycled baby food jars. Each jar was decorated with a cloth lid covering and ribbon, and included printed instructions and a warm, personal note.

The initiative aimed to bring comfort and connection to seniors during a time of year that can feel especially lonely.