Athletics

This year our Sr. Lions were in a great position heading into the final week of YRAA play with a great opportunity to win the title with a 2nd overall ranking through the first three weeks of the season. Unfortunately, the boys were unable to win their final matches in order to secure the title and would end up finishing the season with a 3rd place overall finish. Despite some tough injuries, the boys would show the depth and resilience of the STL Rugby program with many players filling in key roles down the stretch in order to give us a chance to win. We would like to thank all graduating players for their tremendous achievements and dedication over the past four years to our rugby family and STL community. You have set the bar very high for the next generation and will be greatly missed.

Over the course of the season, there was a drastic improvement in the Senior Girls’ Rugby Team. The team moved up from Tier 2 to Tier 1, ultimately finishing 4th in Tier 1 ( total of 28 teams league). This is due to the commitment and hard work of all the players. The entire team consists of grade 12 students, so all are graduating. I would like to thank them, and I wish them all the best in their post-secondary years.

The Senior Boys' Volleyball Team had an excellent season, showing a lot of growth throughout their time together. The boys came together as a family and played excellent volleyball down the stretch. They were semifinalists in the Father Michael McGivney Tournament, consolation champions in the very competitive Mississauga SS tournament, and YRAA quarter finalists. More importantly, the boys demonstrated unbelievable respect and sportsmanship, that was noted by many opposing coaches and referees. One of the off-court season highlights was purchasing supplies and cooking Thanksgiving dinner for homeless youth in York Region at 360 Kids. It was a pleasure to coach such a dedicated and passionate group of young men. The coaches are extremely proud of all members for their incredible season on and off the court!

STL Senior Lions had a great 2019 Season. The team consisting of 22 players went undefeated in the YRAA regular season with a record of 7 wins and 1 tie. Following that, we had to persevere through a tricky Quarter Final match against Cardinal Carter and a character building Semi Final encounter against a strong rival from Emily Carr. Wins in both matches ensured we earned our spot in the YRAA Championship game, the one everyone wants to play. Unfortunately that day did not go according to plan and we suffered our first defeat of the season against St. Brother Andre. It was a game of two halves. STL dominated the first half, yet that advantage did not materialise in goals. Brother Andre played better in the second half and scored twice. It may be difficult to notice the positives because we did not achieve the main objective, but getting to the YRAA Final is a huge achievement for this group. The character and integrity shown by all players throughout the season and in a face of huge disappointment needs to be admired; they conducted themselves with class. This group will be well remembered because not only did they play some great soccer throughout the season, but they also made STL proud with the way they represented the school on and off the pitch.

The Junior Girls' Basketball Team had a tremendous overall season. Through each game they were able to showcase their tenacious defense and hard work. Their all-around offensive attack was led by top scorers: Amarachi Achioso, Alicia Vaccarella, and Captain Mia DiPanfilo. Season highlights include a 19-point upset victory in the playoffs against St. Jean de Brebeuf with a 22 point performance by Amarachi. The girls' season came to an abrupt end after suffering a heartbreaking defeat to the #1 seeded Sir William Mulock in the YRAA quarterfinals. Coaches Mr. Zapanta and Ms. Cammalleri are extremely proud of what the girls have accomplished this season. Great job, Lady Lions!