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Volleyball team qualifies for Class L state tournament
It was quite the stretch for the Woodstock Academy volleyball team.
The Centaurs had to play East Lyme, South Windsor and Waterford, three pretty good programs, in a row with no break.
“I don’t want to say uneasy, but we were cautious coming into this week because we knew it was back-to-back-to-back. A lot of the girls are used to playing in club tournaments which are three-day events and they play for six hours or whatever so I don’t think it has the same impact as basketball or soccer but it’s a lot,” said coach Adam Bottone.
The Centaurs only lost one set, to East Lyme on Wednesday on the road, in a 3-1 win and shutout both South Windsor and Waterford on Thursday and Friday at home.
The three wins meant Woodstock now sports an 8-0 record and has qualified for the Class L state tournament.
“It’s really good,” said senior Izzy Mojica after the win over Waterford. “Last year was kind of hard because we hit a little low to start (5-3 at this time last year) so it’s nice to start out really strong.”
Bottone said it’s nice to just be able to check making the state tournament, which is always the first goal, off the list.
“To be done with that this early in the season is definitely a good thing. When you have that undefeated record, everyone is gunning for you. I love having it, but it’s just that much more work to maintain where we are and, hopefully, we can keep it going,” he said.
The Lancers also came into Friday night’s match undefeated at 6-0.
But Waterford clearly had some issues. The Lancers were missing one of their top front-line players in senior Brielle Kenney and had to adapt, going to a two-setter system.
“That definitely will affect a team when you have one of your top players out and you throw someone else into the mix. We go back to Waterford in a few weeks and I think it will be a different story. But we did a good job taking them out of system which may have impacted their ability to get (senior outside hitter Jennie Macca-Barnes) good quality swings out of good sets,” Bottone said.
The Centaurs limited Macca-Barnes presence on the front row throughout the match which was good as the senior still produced 11 kills.
But it showed in the match as the Centaurs gradually pulled away in the first set.
The two teams were tied at 10 but went on a 13-1 run courtesy of an eight-point service run by Mojica, including a pair of aces, and a four-point service run by Vivian Bibeau enroute to the 25-12 first set victory.
It was a bit more difficult in the second set, but a little bit was caused by the Centaurs themselves as they had four service errors which affected their momentum a bit but did not stop them from posting a 25-17 win.
Bottone was able to substitute in the third set and still saw his team prevail, 25-19, to win the match.
“We’re graduating seven seniors and two juniors on the court who play a lot so I have to the girls some court time when I can. They’re going into it probably with some nerves and how are they going to respond? Will they make the plays? If not, we will just switch them back out and back in at the next opportunity,” Bottone said.
Mojica led the Centaurs with 11 kills while Lily Bottone added 6. Setter Sophie Gronski was again a big part of the mix with 22 assists and Cassidy Ladd held the back line together with 15 digs.
“I’m happy with the defense which is something that I have harped on for a lot of years. They let a lot of balls drop and didn’t do a great job covering but we’ve really stepped up in that respect especially in the past few games,” Bottone said.
Bottone was a bit concerned about the team’s hitting efficiency especially around the net and that was a result of some tightening up needed when it comes to the team’s passing.
“We’re either too tight to the net or we’re right at the 10-foot line. We have to get that in about three feet inside the 10-foot line,” Bottone said.
The Centaurs dropped just the second set to East Lyme to score the win on the road.
Mojica had 14 kills while Kaylee Bundy and Mia Sorrentino added 10 each.
It’s one of the things that Bottone likes most about his club- its versatility,
Coming into the Waterford match, Mojica had 74 kills, Lily Bottone had 69, Bundy had 50, Sorrentino 42 and Vivian Bibeau 32.
The Centaurs made short work of South Windsor winning in the three-set minimum.
Mojica had eight kills in that match, Lily Bottone seven and Gronski contributed 24 assists.
“East Lyme is always a challenge for us, especially in their gym, so it’s always nice to go there and come out with a win. South Windsor in the past few years has gone to five sets and we’ve squeaked out those wins so to go 3-1 against East Lyme and 3-0 against South Windsor was nice especially back-to-back. It was good to get out fairly quickly and get some rest,” Bottone said.
Marc Allard
Director of Sports Information
The Woodstock Academy
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caption:
Senior Izzy Mojica has been one of the keys for the team. Photo by Marc Allard/Woodstock Academy
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PSA football makes history with 1st-ever victory
PUTNAM — In a landmark achievement for Putnam Science Academy, the PSA football team claimed its first-ever victory Sept. 21, defeating CT State 40-6.
The historic win marks a significant milestone for the young program, which has been steadily building towards this moment since its inception, according to Athletic Director Thomas Espinosa.
Head Coach Chris Mook, who has been guiding the team through its formative stages, said: “It feels great to come out on top this week. We really felt we let the first one slip away, and we wanted to make sure that didn’t happen this time.”
Determined to secure their first victory, the PSA Mustangs focused on perfecting the details and minimizing mistakes in their preparation. “Just staying focused on the little details and making sure we limit our mistakes,” Mook said. “We really tuned into film this week and put a great game plan together to limit unnecessary mistakes.”
The Mustangs executed that game plan to near perfection on both sides of the ball. The defense, led by standout performances from Johnny Patrick, and Faz Khal, was dominant throughout the contest. Patrick, a defensive stalwart, recorded two interceptions, while Khal contributed multiple tackles and made several key plays to stifle the CT State offense.
On the offensive side, quarterback Ben Roden showcased his talents with multiple passing touchdowns, leading a balanced attack that overwhelmed the CT State defense. The running back trio of Josiah Joyner, Nayjean Holley, and Antowwan Blue, dubbed the “three-headed monster,” were relentless, combining for a series of powerful runs that kept the chains moving and the scoreboard ticking.
Looking ahead, the Mustangs are eager to build on this historic win. Mook believes the team’s success is a sign of things to come. “We’re going to keep working hard, keep focusing on the little things, and keep striving to get better every week,” he said.
He added: “Saturday’s win is not just a victory; it’s the start of something special. With a talented roster and a committed coaching staff, the future looks bright for the Mustangs.”
By Rebecca Townes
Sports Information Director
Putnam Science Academy
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Wed. Sept. 25
Art Exhibit
PUTNAM --- “The Five Senses of Women” exhibit will run through Sept. 30 at the Corridor Gallery at the Putnam Municipal Complex. Free. It features a variety of medias and techniques from five local artists: Lisa Andrews, Kathy Guertin, Carolyn Nadeau, Laura Moorehead, and Karen Reid. 1. www.PutnamCtArtsCouncil.com for gallery hours and more information.
Art Exhibit
THOMPSON --- The Friends of the Library will hold one of its Art @ the Library series, “Landscape Journeys by Al Mathes” at the Thompson Public Library through September. In the Display Case: Constitution Week by Ida Ransom.
Candy Needed
POMFRET --- Windham-Tolland 4-H Camp teens will be hosting the Fall Extravaganza Fund-raiser, which includes trick or treating. Proceeds from this event go towards repairing the Health Office. Please consider donating a bag of candy: WINY Radio, Sunshine Shop, W-T 4-H Camp. Needed before Oct. 19.
Sat. Sept. 29
Poets at Large
POMFRET --- Poets at Large kicks off its fall season at the Vanilla Bean Café from 7 to 9 p.m. with Worcester poet Tony Brown Sept. 28, Lee Derosiers Oct. 26 and Christie Max Williams Nov. 23. $15. Poets at Large is a project of Windham Arts. This series is sponsored in part by bankHometown, Charter Oak Federal Credit Union, and Weiss, Hale & Zahansky Strategic Wealth Advisors. The Vanilla Bean is ADA compliant.
BBQ Fund-raiser
PUTNAM --- Paws Cat Shelter is hosting its 9th Annual Chicken BBQ fund-raiser from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus, 64 Providence St. Eat in or take out. $15 - can be purchased at Paws Cat Shelter, 74 School St.; Joseph Jewelers, 153 School St.; and at Knights of Columbus. 860-315-1228.
Mon. Sept. 30
Explore Harp
PUTNAM --- The Putnam Public Library will present “Exploring the Harp” for kids 6-12 at 4:30. Limit. Registration required: 860-963-6826.
Sat. Oct. 5
'Cozy Pumpkin'
POMFRET --- The Pomfret Recreation Department will host “Make Your Own Hand Knit Cozy Pumpkin at 10 a.m. at the Pomfret Community Center. Learn the basic of arm knitting and make your own cozy pumpkin(s). $45 per pumpkin. All supplies are included! Limited spots available. Sign up now on Facebook at Sovanny’s Comfort Boutique. Find the event and register!
Sun. Oct. 6
Guided Walk
POMFRET --- The Wyndham Land Trust is presenting a guided walk at 1 p.m. in the Nightingale Forest South. 860-465-7228.
Program
PUTNAM---- The Associates of the Daughters of the Holy Spirit will present Sheryl Faye as Queen Elizabeth II at 2 p.m. at St. Mary Church Hall on Providence Street. $15. 860-412-9483. Leave a message. No tickets will be sold at the door.
Wed. Oct. 16
Movie Night
PUTNAM --- The Friends of the Putnam Public Library will present Movie Night (a Disney remake of a classic haunted house PG-13 comedy) from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the library. Free. Only covered drinks allow.
Sat. Oct. 19
Great Pumpkin Fest
PUTNAM --- The Town of Putnam and the Putnam Business Association will present the Great Pumpkin Festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This community celebration of fall features The Great Pumpkin, craft and art vendors, live music, activities for the kids, more.
Rec to Treat
POMFRET --- The Pomfret Recreation Department will host Rec or Treat at 4 p.m. Trunk or Treating with PCS PTO, hayride, crafts, bonfire and movie. Food and drink available for purchase.
Fall Extravaganza
POMFRET --- The Fall Extravaganza at the Windham-Tolland 4-H Camp will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Trick or Treat Trail, $5 per trick-or-treater, ages 2 and up. S’mores and Hot Chocolate, Donut Eating Contest, and Games are free to all. Buck’s Ice Cream for sale. Benefits the Health Center Renovation.
Fri. Oct. 25
Murder Mystery
POMFRET --- Murder Mystery Dinner at Grill 37. Cocktail hour starts at 6 followed by the show and buffet dinner. Dressing up is strongly encouraged. The theme will be Death of a Gangster! www.pomfretct.gov/recreation.
Sat. Oct. 26
Trick or Treat
PUTNAM --- The town of Putnam and the Putnam Business Association will present the Downtown Trick or Treat from 2 to 3:30 p.m. on Main Street. From Riverfront Commons to Union Square, participating merchants and local groups pass out treats.
Guided Walk
POMFRET --- The Wyndham Land Trust is presenting a guided walk at 1 p.m. Pirates and Privateers. 860-465-7228.
Wed. Oct. 23
Musical Program
PUTNAM --- The Putnam Public Library and the Thompson Historical Society will present a musical program, “Ovation Guitars & the Singer/Songwriter Movement of the ‘70s” with Jim Lenn from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the library. Register: 860-963-6826.
Sat. Nov. 2
Guided Walk
The Wyndham Land Trust is presenting a guided walk at 10 a.m. on the Elmwood Hill Ranger as part of Walktober. 860-465-7228.
Thur. Nov. 21
History Program
THOMPSON ---The Thompson Historical Society and the Thompson Public Library will present “Lafayette Story and Thompson Lore About the Man of Two Countries” at 6 p.m. at the library. Free.
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M. Elizabeth ‘Betti’ (Vileno) Rollinson
POMFRET CENTER — Long term resident of Pomfret Center, Connecticut, M. Elizabeth “Betti” Rollinson (Vileno), 92, passed away peacefully on Sept. 17, 2024.
Born on Sept. 29, 1931, in Providence, Betti was the third of 11 children in a proud first-generation Italian-American family. Her devotion to home and family was a cornerstone of her life, a value she carried from her childhood into her final days.
Betti attended St. Mary’s Academy of the Visitation in Providence, where she cultivated a lifelong love of learning. This passion for knowledge led her to a fulfilling career at the Pomfret Public Library where she served as an assistant librarian for more than 38 years. Beyond her professional life, Betti was deeply involved in her community, volunteering in various capacities that enriched the lives of those around her.
A devout parishioner of the Most Holy Trinity Church in Pomfret, Betti’s faith was a significant aspect of her life, guiding her through many of life’s challenges and joys.
She was wed to Milton Rollinson on Aug. 25, 1956, and was married 56 wonderful years before his passing in 2014.
They had three children, Elizabeth (Beth), Mark and Paul. They thoroughly enjoyed life together traveling and spending time with family.
Betti was not only a dedicated librarian and community volunteer but also an avid reader and puzzles enthusiast. Her love for Jeopardy and Scrabble was well-known among her family and friends, often leading to spirited discussions and friendly competitions.
She is survived by her children, Elizabeth (Steven) Jacobs and Paul (Frances) Rollinson; daughter-in-law, Nancy Rollinson; grandchildren, Daniel (Abby) Jacobs, Emily (Nathan Whittemore) Jacobs, Martha (Rafeed Hussain) Rollinson, Emma Rollinson, John Rollinson, Rebecca (Alexander) Sirocki, and Jennifer (Jameson) Bonti; and great-grandchildren, Hope and Vincent Jacobs. Betti was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Milton Rollinson, and son, Mark Rollinson.
A service to celebrate Betti’s life will be held at 10 a.m. Sept. 28, at Most Holy Trinity Church, 568 Pomfret St, Pomfret, CT 06258.
Donations: Pomfret Public Library, PO Box 91, 449 Pomfret St., Pomfret CT 06258; or the Quinnipiac Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine Anatomical Gift Program, furthering her commitment to education and community service.
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Wendorf earns honors at Westview
DAYVILLE — Ashley Wendorf is celebrated as the Westview Employee of the Month for August 2024.
She is in her 17th year with the Westview family. She began her time at the Dayville, CT skilled nursing facility in 2007 as a receptionist and then became a full-time Human Resources assistant in April 2022. Her responsibilities include being accountable for aiding and assisting the crew at Westview Health Care Center, Country Living at Westview Commons, and the newly minted Westview Child Care Center.
She devotes her time helping the Human Resources director in any way possible; supporting facility needs by all means possible. These callings range from directives such as updating employee provisional materials like policy books and identification badges to being an integral part of events like the recently-held Employee Appreciation Week at Westview.
She graduated from the Academy of the Holy Family in Baltic for her high school education. She then studied journalism at UConn before beginning her tenure at Westview Health Care Center. Ashley grew up in Dayville and lives in Brooklyn with her wife Megan. They are the proud owners of two dogs, Braylee and Brextyn—and two cats, Bear and Chunky. Ashley is close with her family. She loves to do home renovation projects is happy to root for the New England Patriots.
Westview Executive Vice President David T. Panteleakos said: “Throughout her time at Westview I have known Ashley to be as professional as she is pleasant. Whether she is interacting with patients, residents, families, or colleagues, she always presents her efficient and enjoyable personality,” Mr. Panteleakos said. “She ensures satisfaction across all of her roles at Westview and I am happy to see her progression to her current position in our Human Resources Department.”
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