Congratulations to 12 Minisink Valley seniors on the recent signing of their Division III NCAA National Letters of Intent:
Anastasia Albornoz, diving, Ithaca College
“Ana was a two-year captain of the team, qualified for the state championship in 2022 and placed sixth in the section this past 2023 season,” said Coach Bill Mirenda.
Amelia Bohr, swimming, SUNY Potsdam
“Amelia has been a four-year starter on the team and has been used as a utility swimmer across almost every single event during that time,” said Coach Megan Sontag. “She is always willing to be used in any event when we need her and gives a respectable performance regardless of her experience with that race and was named captain this past year.”
Amelia is a high school and OU BOCES CTE Honor Roll student, a National Honor Society member, National Technical Honor Society member, OU BOCES Educators Rising vice president and has been the music and assistant director for the Intermediate School musicals.
Madison Jellema, soccer, Kings College
“Madison was named varsity captain for soccer and for flag football, making it to Section finals two years in a row for soccer, shutting out the number one team in our section in the Section semi-finals for soccer, and receiving an offer to play soccer in college,” said Coach Theresa Uhelsky.
Kaitlyn Jankowski, swimming, Alfred State
“Kaitlyn was a four-year member of the varsity team who progressively improved to one of the top starters for sprinting events,” said Coach Megan Sontag. “She was also a two season Section qualifier.”
Emily Ketcham, softball, SUNY Orange
“Emily is a three-year member of the varsity softball team, starting at shortstop her senior year,” said Coach Bruce Guyette. “Emily was one of our team captains and was very well respected by her peers. To quote the teammate that nominated her; ‘I think she embodies what makes a team captain. She is positive, vocal, and has helped me be better without me asking.’ Batting second in the lineup, Emily hit .296 and did an excellent job of moving batters into scoring position, leading the team with five sacrifice bunts.”
Emily was on the Honor Roll in the CTE Law Enforcement Program as a junior and made High Honor Roll as a senior. She has assisted the Mt. Hope Police at DWI checkpoints and has also volunteered as security at numerous CTE events.
Taras Kosciolek, soccer, SUNY Delhi
“Taras is a talented soccer player who has an incredible work ethic,” said Coach Kevin Burns. “In addition to playing for Minisink, he has played club ball at a high level. He has the ability to contribute immediately at the next level. He has set an example for our younger players and we wish him all of the best as he moves on.”
Taras is a member of the school’s Honor Roll and Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). He is a member of the Ukrainian-American Youth Association where he volunteers his time working with children.
Emma McCaffrey, basketball, SUNY Cortland
“Some academic accomplishments include, High Honor Roll all four years of high school and soon- to-be receiving an advanced regents diploma,” said Coach Jim Golden.
Victoria Melton, cheerleading, Misericordia University
“Vicky has shown a lot of growth in the years she has been on the MVHS Cheer Team,” said Coach Patti Archiere. “Her remarkable drive to achieve her personal goals and the team’s goals has been a motivating factor for the team’s success. She’s an exceptional back spot, base and leader.”
Vicky is a NYSPHAA Scholar Athlete for both the Game Day and Winter Competitive Cheer Seasons for all of her high school years. She’s also spent many hours volunteering for local groups through MVHS Cheerleading, FBLA, NHS and Key Club.
Hannah Moulton, softball, SUNY Orange
“Hannah has been a member of the varsity softball team for the past three seasons,” said Coach Bruce Guyette. “She was selected a captain in her senior year and has proven to be a great leader, both on and off the field. Hannah had a terrific senior season, batting .348 while leading the team in both runs batted in with 21 and runs scored with 24. Whether it was a big hit, a much-needed walk, or a great defensive play Hannah always seemed to be in the middle of the action. In recognition of her accomplishments, Hannah was voted to the Class AA Section IX All Star team.”
Hannah has been on the High Honor Roll all four years of her high school career. She has also volunteered at Camp Cooperation for the past three years, where her responsibilities included welcoming incoming middle school students to their new school building.
Matthew Nixon, baseball, SUNY Orange
“Matt has been a tremendous asset to our baseball program for the past six years,” said Coach Dave Benedetto. “As a varsity player, he was a major contributor to our success. Matt’s leadership kept our team together and his love for the game shines through. He has great character on and off the field. We wish Matt much luck as his journey continues.”
Paige Paffenroth, swimming, Marywood University
“Paige has risen to become one of the top distance swimmers on the team this past year, and qualified for sections in three events,” said Coach Megan Sontag.
While in CTE, she was inducted into the National Technical Honor Society and is taking her certification exam to be a medical assistant.
Derek Vlietstra, baseball, Alfred University
“Derek is a story of perseverance,” said Coach Dave Benedetto. “He never gave up and stayed focused on his goals. This was his first season making a roster spot and he made the most of it becoming the ace of our staff. Derek’s hard work paid off and we wish him luck as he takes his game to the next level.”