Bowling Team Wins STATE! Kristin Tran
After countless hours of practice and hard work, they did it! The Ballard Bowling team competed in the state championship on February 7th and won the tournament! Congratulations to the bowling team, Ballard could not be more proud.
As state champions, the bowling team got recognized at the basketball game on February 21st during half time. The whole team showed that night to represent and receive the recognition that they deserved.
This year’s team is the first of the bowling program’s teams to win a state championship, leaving a mark on the history of Ballard’s Bowling team. Senior Jack Kaelin has been a part of the team since he was a freshman and being able to win the championship for his last year was “an unreal experience.” Going into the tournament, Kaelin was “nervous and excited,” knowing “[they] were going to have a tough bracket and [they] were all going to have to play big roles.” It was clear to everyone, in Kaelin’s words, that “[his] guys came through in the end,” seeing that they came home with the championship trophy.
After further questions, Kaelin added that he just “wanted to win the for [his] team and [his] coaches.” He is very hopeful for the future of the team, for next year, they will “be loaded with talent.” He believes that they will even be strong enough to win again next year.
Best of luck to the team next year and years to come, and congratulations again to the whole team for a spectacular win.
As state champions, the bowling team got recognized at the basketball game on February 21st during half time. The whole team showed that night to represent and receive the recognition that they deserved.
This year’s team is the first of the bowling program’s teams to win a state championship, leaving a mark on the history of Ballard’s Bowling team. Senior Jack Kaelin has been a part of the team since he was a freshman and being able to win the championship for his last year was “an unreal experience.” Going into the tournament, Kaelin was “nervous and excited,” knowing “[they] were going to have a tough bracket and [they] were all going to have to play big roles.” It was clear to everyone, in Kaelin’s words, that “[his] guys came through in the end,” seeing that they came home with the championship trophy.
After further questions, Kaelin added that he just “wanted to win the for [his] team and [his] coaches.” He is very hopeful for the future of the team, for next year, they will “be loaded with talent.” He believes that they will even be strong enough to win again next year.
Best of luck to the team next year and years to come, and congratulations again to the whole team for a spectacular win.
Ballard Bowling Team on a Roll Kristin Tran
If you can, spare some time to go and support the Ballard Bowling Team! The bowling team at Ballard consists of students from all grade levels who have spent several months practicing to get to state. Recently, the team has been busy with baker games, singles tournaments, and team matches against schools in the Jefferson County district.
Recently, on January 21st and 22nd, sophomore Victoria Hines and 4 boys from Ballard’s bowling team competed in the regional singles tournaments. Ballard sent seniors Brandon Greenwald and Jack Kaelin as well as sophomore Ryan Schmitt and freshman Nick Kaelin to participate. According to the team, senior Jack Kaelin is their star bowler this year, and he definitely showed it. During the boys’ singles tournament, Ballard’s boys sent 3 of our 4 bowlers to the finals. Kaelin showed out that night and placed 4th out of 8 beating out 4 other players in the region. As well as Kaelin, the only girl on the team Victoria Hines is a star player, too. Hines competed in the girls’ singles tournament and won the tournament, placing 1st in the region!
The team is fairly young this year, consisting of a majority of sophomores, and only 3 seniors. Regardless of their young average age, the team is still doing a great job this season. On January 25th the team bowled against 9 teams and beat 8 other teams to become runner up in the region. This being said, the team is now going to state to compete for the championship! Friday February 7th is the date for the competition. If you can make it out, the tournament will be held at Strike and Spare Executive on Phillips Lane here in Louisville, starting at 2pm. Try and make it out right after school if you can, it’ll be a good one to watch!
Recently, on January 21st and 22nd, sophomore Victoria Hines and 4 boys from Ballard’s bowling team competed in the regional singles tournaments. Ballard sent seniors Brandon Greenwald and Jack Kaelin as well as sophomore Ryan Schmitt and freshman Nick Kaelin to participate. According to the team, senior Jack Kaelin is their star bowler this year, and he definitely showed it. During the boys’ singles tournament, Ballard’s boys sent 3 of our 4 bowlers to the finals. Kaelin showed out that night and placed 4th out of 8 beating out 4 other players in the region. As well as Kaelin, the only girl on the team Victoria Hines is a star player, too. Hines competed in the girls’ singles tournament and won the tournament, placing 1st in the region!
The team is fairly young this year, consisting of a majority of sophomores, and only 3 seniors. Regardless of their young average age, the team is still doing a great job this season. On January 25th the team bowled against 9 teams and beat 8 other teams to become runner up in the region. This being said, the team is now going to state to compete for the championship! Friday February 7th is the date for the competition. If you can make it out, the tournament will be held at Strike and Spare Executive on Phillips Lane here in Louisville, starting at 2pm. Try and make it out right after school if you can, it’ll be a good one to watch!
Road to Tokyo: The United States Women’s Soccer Team is Headed to the 2020 Olympics Katie Moore
America’s domination of the CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying Tournament has set the Women’s National Soccer Team on the path to the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.
The qualifying tournament began for the United States with a 4-0 win against Haiti. The scoring was initiated in the second minute with a touch from Christen Press, off of a cross sent by Lynn Williams. The other three goals came in the 67th, 73rd, and 93rd minute from Lynn Williams, Lindsey Horan, and Carli Lloyd, respectively.
The next match against Panama produced an even larger yield, with an 8-0 match in America’s favor. The game brought 25 year-old Lindsey Horan’s first international hat trick, along with goals from Lynn Wiliams, Rose Lavelle, Christen Press, Jessica McDonald, and Tobin Heath.
These results set up the semi finals, which decided the teams that earned entrance into the larger competition. February 3rd consisted of matches between Haiti and Panama, as well as the two undefeated teams in Group A, Costa Rica and the USA.
The matches ended with wins from both Haiti and the United States. This secured a mixing of Groups A and B with a matchup between Mexico, the semi-final loser from Group B, and the USA on February 7th.
The game provided starting appearances from Megan Rapinoe and Tobin Heath for the first time of the tournament. A final score of 4-0 in favor of America over Mexico secured their spot in the 2020 Olympics.
The final match between Canada and the United States, fought on February 9th, assured America the top spot in the competition and was the fifth consecutive time that America has won the CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying Tournament.
Along with the overall win, the team also brought home the Fair Play Trophy and American offensive star, Christen Press, won the Golden Ball Award as Player of the Tournament.
The qualifying tournament began for the United States with a 4-0 win against Haiti. The scoring was initiated in the second minute with a touch from Christen Press, off of a cross sent by Lynn Williams. The other three goals came in the 67th, 73rd, and 93rd minute from Lynn Williams, Lindsey Horan, and Carli Lloyd, respectively.
The next match against Panama produced an even larger yield, with an 8-0 match in America’s favor. The game brought 25 year-old Lindsey Horan’s first international hat trick, along with goals from Lynn Wiliams, Rose Lavelle, Christen Press, Jessica McDonald, and Tobin Heath.
These results set up the semi finals, which decided the teams that earned entrance into the larger competition. February 3rd consisted of matches between Haiti and Panama, as well as the two undefeated teams in Group A, Costa Rica and the USA.
The matches ended with wins from both Haiti and the United States. This secured a mixing of Groups A and B with a matchup between Mexico, the semi-final loser from Group B, and the USA on February 7th.
The game provided starting appearances from Megan Rapinoe and Tobin Heath for the first time of the tournament. A final score of 4-0 in favor of America over Mexico secured their spot in the 2020 Olympics.
The final match between Canada and the United States, fought on February 9th, assured America the top spot in the competition and was the fifth consecutive time that America has won the CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying Tournament.
Along with the overall win, the team also brought home the Fair Play Trophy and American offensive star, Christen Press, won the Golden Ball Award as Player of the Tournament.
Lamar Jackson Has Dissapointing End to Great Season Emily Richardson
23 year old Lamar Jackson began his college football career at the University of Louisville in 2015. During his sophomore season, Jackson became the youngest player to ever win the Heisman Trophy. While at the University of Louisville, Jackson also won awards such as the Davey O’Brien award for the nation’s top quarterback and the Maxwell award for the nation’s top football player. Jackson surpassed many records while at Louisville, such as being the first offensive player to be named a finalist for the Lombardi award. His rushing yards broke Louisville’s single season rushing mark and set AAC records for most rushing yards by a quarterback (1,571), as well as rushing touchdowns by a quarterback (21).
During Jackson’s third year of playing for Louisville, he was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens as the 32nd pick of the first round. The Baltimore Ravens’ historic 2019-20 season came to an end after suffering a devastating loss to the Tennessee Titans. This loss was Baltimore’s first since September of 2019, after being ranked number one throughout the entire season. It seemed as though this game would be an easy win for Baltimore, but with Tennessee taking an early 14-0 lead, it seemed pretty obvious that this game may not go as planned. Quarterback Lamar Jackson threw two interceptions, had three turnovers, and fumbled once. With Jackson being the front-runner for the NFL’s most valuable player award, this was a very uncharacteristic performance for him. When asked about the loss, Jackson said “we just beat ourselves”. Jackson finished the Tennessee game with only one touchdown and two interceptions. He reminisced on his performance, saying, “I had a lot of mistakes on my behalf. Three turnovers shouldn’t happen. But [Tennessee] came out to play.”
This loss isn’t completely on Jackson’s shoulders though. Overall, the team as a whole did not perform well. Running back Mark Ingram had a strained calf, causing him to finish the game with his worst record all season of 22 yards and 6 carries. Ravens’ wide receivers and tight ends dropped 5 passes. Jackson said, “We are a young team, especially on offense. We can only get better. It’s only up from here.” Tennessee forced Lamar Jackson to move latterly, helping them jump to an early 14-0 lead, with both of their touchdowns coming from turnovers from the Ravens. Tennessee forced the Ravens out of their comfort zoneJackson finished the Tennessee game with only one touchdown and two interceptions.
Losing to the 6th seeded Titans knocked the Ravens out of the front-running for the 2020 Super Bowl. This was heartbreaking to players and fans worldwide. The critics didn’t have much of a problem with the Ravens losing though, because this gave them something to write about.Going into this game, Jackson was one of the nation’s favorite players. Once Jackson lost this game, many critics began to call him “overrated” and question if he even deserved any of the praise he received in the first place. Refuting these claims, Jackson said he does not “really worry about what people say.” Is Jackson really overrated though? This season, he led the NFL with 36 touchdown passes, breaking Michael Vick’s single season rushing mark for a quarterback. It has been twenty years since a player won the NFL MVP award and the Super Bowl in the same year, but critics think that since Jackson didn’t make it to the Super Bowl, he is no longer deserving of the MVP award. The Manning brothers lost their first five play-off games, but they still remain praised.
With Jackson being only 23, nerves are sure to get the best of him. He had a 20-day break which more than likely contributed to suspense and anxiety leading up to the game. Jackson had 8 turnovers during his entire 2019 season, and three of these turnovers were during this matchup against Tennessee. After facing an enormous amount of criticism, Jackson is still extremely humble and does not give up or let the critics get to him. This was his first season as an NFL starter, and he put up numbers that have been unseen within the NFL. He became the first player to throw for 3,000 yards and have 1,000 rushing yards.
It seems to be a tendency for the Ravens to make it to the playoffs and then lose. Cornerback Marlon Humphrey said, “I think you have to look at yourself in the mirror, and I think this team’s identity right now is to get in the playoffs and choke. It is what it is. This is just the hard truth.” This is Jackson’s second year in the NFL, and he has not won any games post-season. Jackson responded to critics who noted that he was win-less post season, saying “I don’t really care about what they say. This is my second year in the league. Most people [aren’t] able to bring it to the playoffs.” Jackson said that the team’s plans in response to this game are “to keep going [and] get ready for next year”. The Ravens’ coach talked about Jackson’s grit and integrity, stating, “He is going to respond by being extremely motivated and determined to improve as a football player.” Lamar Jackson was named the offensive MVP at the pro bowl this past weekend, so it seems as though he is not as “overrated” as people think. Jackson has grit and passion that is unmatched by most current NFL quarterbacks.
During Jackson’s third year of playing for Louisville, he was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens as the 32nd pick of the first round. The Baltimore Ravens’ historic 2019-20 season came to an end after suffering a devastating loss to the Tennessee Titans. This loss was Baltimore’s first since September of 2019, after being ranked number one throughout the entire season. It seemed as though this game would be an easy win for Baltimore, but with Tennessee taking an early 14-0 lead, it seemed pretty obvious that this game may not go as planned. Quarterback Lamar Jackson threw two interceptions, had three turnovers, and fumbled once. With Jackson being the front-runner for the NFL’s most valuable player award, this was a very uncharacteristic performance for him. When asked about the loss, Jackson said “we just beat ourselves”. Jackson finished the Tennessee game with only one touchdown and two interceptions. He reminisced on his performance, saying, “I had a lot of mistakes on my behalf. Three turnovers shouldn’t happen. But [Tennessee] came out to play.”
This loss isn’t completely on Jackson’s shoulders though. Overall, the team as a whole did not perform well. Running back Mark Ingram had a strained calf, causing him to finish the game with his worst record all season of 22 yards and 6 carries. Ravens’ wide receivers and tight ends dropped 5 passes. Jackson said, “We are a young team, especially on offense. We can only get better. It’s only up from here.” Tennessee forced Lamar Jackson to move latterly, helping them jump to an early 14-0 lead, with both of their touchdowns coming from turnovers from the Ravens. Tennessee forced the Ravens out of their comfort zoneJackson finished the Tennessee game with only one touchdown and two interceptions.
Losing to the 6th seeded Titans knocked the Ravens out of the front-running for the 2020 Super Bowl. This was heartbreaking to players and fans worldwide. The critics didn’t have much of a problem with the Ravens losing though, because this gave them something to write about.Going into this game, Jackson was one of the nation’s favorite players. Once Jackson lost this game, many critics began to call him “overrated” and question if he even deserved any of the praise he received in the first place. Refuting these claims, Jackson said he does not “really worry about what people say.” Is Jackson really overrated though? This season, he led the NFL with 36 touchdown passes, breaking Michael Vick’s single season rushing mark for a quarterback. It has been twenty years since a player won the NFL MVP award and the Super Bowl in the same year, but critics think that since Jackson didn’t make it to the Super Bowl, he is no longer deserving of the MVP award. The Manning brothers lost their first five play-off games, but they still remain praised.
With Jackson being only 23, nerves are sure to get the best of him. He had a 20-day break which more than likely contributed to suspense and anxiety leading up to the game. Jackson had 8 turnovers during his entire 2019 season, and three of these turnovers were during this matchup against Tennessee. After facing an enormous amount of criticism, Jackson is still extremely humble and does not give up or let the critics get to him. This was his first season as an NFL starter, and he put up numbers that have been unseen within the NFL. He became the first player to throw for 3,000 yards and have 1,000 rushing yards.
It seems to be a tendency for the Ravens to make it to the playoffs and then lose. Cornerback Marlon Humphrey said, “I think you have to look at yourself in the mirror, and I think this team’s identity right now is to get in the playoffs and choke. It is what it is. This is just the hard truth.” This is Jackson’s second year in the NFL, and he has not won any games post-season. Jackson responded to critics who noted that he was win-less post season, saying “I don’t really care about what they say. This is my second year in the league. Most people [aren’t] able to bring it to the playoffs.” Jackson said that the team’s plans in response to this game are “to keep going [and] get ready for next year”. The Ravens’ coach talked about Jackson’s grit and integrity, stating, “He is going to respond by being extremely motivated and determined to improve as a football player.” Lamar Jackson was named the offensive MVP at the pro bowl this past weekend, so it seems as though he is not as “overrated” as people think. Jackson has grit and passion that is unmatched by most current NFL quarterbacks.
Ballard Produces Several D-1 Athletes
Kristin Tran
Ballard is well known for producing some incredible athletes. Some national athletes from Ballard include Jeff Lamp, Allan Houston, Jordan Adell. But Ballard athletes are not just basketball and baseball players. In fact, there are many Ballard athletes who have already committed to Division 1 NCAA colleges.
Last year as a junior, Allie Skaggs, now a senior, committed to Arizona State University (ASU) for softball. Skaggs played softball for Ballard for four years before going to finish her high school career in Arizona. Since she was a young child, Skaggs has always had her eye on ASU. As a commit, she moved to Arizona to finish her high school career and get comfortable with the Arizona atmosphere. Allie verbally committed to ASU as a junior at Ballard and officially signed as a senior in Arizona.
Senior Emma Hixenbaugh has committed to Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) as a D1 swimmer. While she chose FGCU, they were not the only college trying to recruit her. According to Hixenbaugh, “[she] also got offers from Liberty University and University of Miami.” Although she got multiple offers, she chose FGCU because she “loved the campus and they had the best offer financially.” She also stated that she “loved the team, and the teammates made her feel welcome.” Hixenbaugh started swimming at the age of 5 years old and has loved it since then. She’s participated in numerous swim meets and swim camps to get to where she is now.
Last but surely not least, senior Josh Minkins has also committed to college for a sport. As a football player, Minkins was sought out during the season, and received an impressive number of 22 recruitment offers from different colleges, ultimately accepting the offer of one college: University of Louisville. Minkins chose UofL because “it’s his hometown, [his] dad played there, and the campus, facilities, and staff are great!” Carrying on the family legacy, he is following along in his father’s footsteps, who played as a defensive back from 1999-2003. Minkins started playing football at the age of 4 alongside ”practices for the team [his] dad had coached at Highview.” He participated in multiple camps, including the Nike Opening camp, where he won MVP for his position as a defensive back. He has also participated in UofL’s football camp to help better himself and prepare for what he will experience in college.
Although not all were mentioned, Ballard is very proud of all the students committed to college for their remarkable athletic achievements. Signing ceremonies are packed with loving friends, classmates, family, and even staff members & faculty. Congratulations to all students who have been recruited by a college/university, and good luck to those athletes hoping to get recruited and signed to a college!
Last year as a junior, Allie Skaggs, now a senior, committed to Arizona State University (ASU) for softball. Skaggs played softball for Ballard for four years before going to finish her high school career in Arizona. Since she was a young child, Skaggs has always had her eye on ASU. As a commit, she moved to Arizona to finish her high school career and get comfortable with the Arizona atmosphere. Allie verbally committed to ASU as a junior at Ballard and officially signed as a senior in Arizona.
Senior Emma Hixenbaugh has committed to Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) as a D1 swimmer. While she chose FGCU, they were not the only college trying to recruit her. According to Hixenbaugh, “[she] also got offers from Liberty University and University of Miami.” Although she got multiple offers, she chose FGCU because she “loved the campus and they had the best offer financially.” She also stated that she “loved the team, and the teammates made her feel welcome.” Hixenbaugh started swimming at the age of 5 years old and has loved it since then. She’s participated in numerous swim meets and swim camps to get to where she is now.
Last but surely not least, senior Josh Minkins has also committed to college for a sport. As a football player, Minkins was sought out during the season, and received an impressive number of 22 recruitment offers from different colleges, ultimately accepting the offer of one college: University of Louisville. Minkins chose UofL because “it’s his hometown, [his] dad played there, and the campus, facilities, and staff are great!” Carrying on the family legacy, he is following along in his father’s footsteps, who played as a defensive back from 1999-2003. Minkins started playing football at the age of 4 alongside ”practices for the team [his] dad had coached at Highview.” He participated in multiple camps, including the Nike Opening camp, where he won MVP for his position as a defensive back. He has also participated in UofL’s football camp to help better himself and prepare for what he will experience in college.
Although not all were mentioned, Ballard is very proud of all the students committed to college for their remarkable athletic achievements. Signing ceremonies are packed with loving friends, classmates, family, and even staff members & faculty. Congratulations to all students who have been recruited by a college/university, and good luck to those athletes hoping to get recruited and signed to a college!
Daeschner Stepping Down as Head Field
Hockey Coach Fardowsa Hassan
Shelby Deashchner is a science teacher here at Ballard that teaches Honors and AP Biology. She graduated from Ballard herself and was an outstanding field hockey player in her own right when she was a student. Recently, Daeschner announced that she would be stepping down after six seasons.
She became interested in being a hockey coach when she was still in grad school and has continued the legacy of success for the Ballard field hockey program. Over her tenure, the team has taken down some of the state powerhouses like Sacred Heart and Assumption, and has made deep runs into the State tournament.
Daeschner is now pursuing her doctorate and will no longer have the time to coach the hockey team and won't be able to invest in the next season. She hopes that in stepping down she does not affect the team nor her teaching career because "I hope that the team continues the way the way it is going and that it grows the girls into strong women's. I hope that it doesn't impact my teaching career because it is my first career and it may impact my relationship with the girls in the hockey team. But I had so many memories and the best one was when we won the freshman tournament."
Now that she isn't a hockey coach she wants to focus on the next phase of her career, leaving behind a legacy of success and lots of great memories.
She became interested in being a hockey coach when she was still in grad school and has continued the legacy of success for the Ballard field hockey program. Over her tenure, the team has taken down some of the state powerhouses like Sacred Heart and Assumption, and has made deep runs into the State tournament.
Daeschner is now pursuing her doctorate and will no longer have the time to coach the hockey team and won't be able to invest in the next season. She hopes that in stepping down she does not affect the team nor her teaching career because "I hope that the team continues the way the way it is going and that it grows the girls into strong women's. I hope that it doesn't impact my teaching career because it is my first career and it may impact my relationship with the girls in the hockey team. But I had so many memories and the best one was when we won the freshman tournament."
Now that she isn't a hockey coach she wants to focus on the next phase of her career, leaving behind a legacy of success and lots of great memories.
Ballard Boys Basketball Kiki Chandler
The Ballard’s boys basketball team currently has won nine out of the eleven games they have played. Coach Renner says that the team is “We have had a nice start to the year,” said Coach Renner and that they currently have all the pieces in place to have a great season. Senior basketball player, Terrence McDaniels, added, “At the end of the season we will be playing in the state championship, and hopefully getting a ring.”
McDaniels agreed that the team has all the pieces needed to succeed; “The freshmen guards, Gabe Sisk and Jack Edelen, and we have Lewis, who has a lot of experience, he is like a leader on our team.” Ballard’s team is solid this year, each player contributes to the overall skill of the team.
Although the team is “dealing with some injuries and waiting on a ruling for Maker Bar to be ruled eligible,” according to Coach Renner, both the players and the coach have high hopes for the rest of the season. McDaniels mentioned the recovery of Rashad Bishop from his broken wrist. Whenever a kid transfers to a school in Kentucky they have to be cleared for eligibility, so the KHSAA has to do a report to make sure everything was done properly,” explained Renner. Maker, a 6’10 sophomore who immigrated from South Sudan, is one of the integral pieces of the team.
Coach Renner concluded by saying, “We have a lot of things we do well, we have a very good shooting team. We also have size, which allows us to rebound and do some other stuff. We have a nice blend of talented younger players and solid upper classmen.” Renner has a good vision for the team and sees the potential this season and beyond.
McDaniels agreed that the team has all the pieces needed to succeed; “The freshmen guards, Gabe Sisk and Jack Edelen, and we have Lewis, who has a lot of experience, he is like a leader on our team.” Ballard’s team is solid this year, each player contributes to the overall skill of the team.
Although the team is “dealing with some injuries and waiting on a ruling for Maker Bar to be ruled eligible,” according to Coach Renner, both the players and the coach have high hopes for the rest of the season. McDaniels mentioned the recovery of Rashad Bishop from his broken wrist. Whenever a kid transfers to a school in Kentucky they have to be cleared for eligibility, so the KHSAA has to do a report to make sure everything was done properly,” explained Renner. Maker, a 6’10 sophomore who immigrated from South Sudan, is one of the integral pieces of the team.
Coach Renner concluded by saying, “We have a lot of things we do well, we have a very good shooting team. We also have size, which allows us to rebound and do some other stuff. We have a nice blend of talented younger players and solid upper classmen.” Renner has a good vision for the team and sees the potential this season and beyond.
Women's National Soccer Team Members Fight for Equal Pay Katie Moore
With the passing of the Women’s World Cup, and the closing of the Victory Tour, it may be expected for most to flip the channel when it comes to women’s soccer, but the outspoken members of the back-to-back World Cup winning U.S. Women’s National Team are keeping all eyes on them while off the pitch.
The attention garnered by the World Cup drew many people’s thoughts back to the lawsuit that was filed by the USWNT in March. The lawsuit includes charges of gender discrimination against US Soccer Federation, but some are still confused at the grounds of the accusation, as well as proposed solutions addressing the problem. The lawsuit was filed as a result of the large gap in compensation between the Men’s National team and the USWNT. The disparities between the the Men’s and Women’s teams involve not only pay, but travel, training, and promotion as well.
An article by CBS Sports explains that the women had to play 21% of their matches on artificial turf. Turf, being harder, increases the risk of injuries as well as an unnatural bounce of the ball, which heavily impacts gameplay. In contrast, the US Men’s National Team only played 2% of their matches on artificial fields. Additionally, the USSF chartered 17 of the men’s flights, but chartered none of the women’s.
The USWNT also made claims about a "USSF-manufactured revenue depression.” This is based off of the lower promotion of matches for the women’s team as well as lesser ticket pricing for these games, decreasing the amount of total income the USWNT brings in.
Some still use this revenue depression to argue the unequal payment of the women, but it is completely out of the team’s control, and is instead in the hands of the United States Soccer Foundation.
In reality, from the point of its creation, the United States Women’s National Team has won four World Cup titles. The Men’s team, on the other hand, has never won a World Cup or even made it to the semifinals of the tournament, held once every four years.
The men were also paid $5.375 million in bonuses despite being eliminated in round 16 of the tournament. Meanwhile, the women were paid only $1.725 million after winning the whole thing in 2015.
The success rate of the USWNT is also being matched by intense viewership. The 2019 World Cup final against the Netherlands took the spot for the most watched soccer event on an English speaking channel. The match displaced the USWNT’s previous World Cup win against Japan in 2015, which formerly held the title.
The lawsuit claims that these inequalities violate both the Equal Pay Act and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. These both deal with the prohibition of unequal pay, treatment, or compensation based on gender. In response, the team is asking for pay that is equal to that which the men receive. In an interview with the TODAY Show, Christen Press, a forward for the USWNT, explained, "What we need is an actual pay structure moving forward where we're being compensated equally." Press is not the only one with demands. In fact, 28 members of the team are listed as plaintiffs in the case.
The national team’s popularity did not just stop with their performance for the country. The interest in these players and the game itself has leaked into the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The viewership for the league has increased exponentially in the past few years with many records breaking for attendance.
The attention garnered by the World Cup drew many people’s thoughts back to the lawsuit that was filed by the USWNT in March. The lawsuit includes charges of gender discrimination against US Soccer Federation, but some are still confused at the grounds of the accusation, as well as proposed solutions addressing the problem. The lawsuit was filed as a result of the large gap in compensation between the Men’s National team and the USWNT. The disparities between the the Men’s and Women’s teams involve not only pay, but travel, training, and promotion as well.
An article by CBS Sports explains that the women had to play 21% of their matches on artificial turf. Turf, being harder, increases the risk of injuries as well as an unnatural bounce of the ball, which heavily impacts gameplay. In contrast, the US Men’s National Team only played 2% of their matches on artificial fields. Additionally, the USSF chartered 17 of the men’s flights, but chartered none of the women’s.
The USWNT also made claims about a "USSF-manufactured revenue depression.” This is based off of the lower promotion of matches for the women’s team as well as lesser ticket pricing for these games, decreasing the amount of total income the USWNT brings in.
Some still use this revenue depression to argue the unequal payment of the women, but it is completely out of the team’s control, and is instead in the hands of the United States Soccer Foundation.
In reality, from the point of its creation, the United States Women’s National Team has won four World Cup titles. The Men’s team, on the other hand, has never won a World Cup or even made it to the semifinals of the tournament, held once every four years.
The men were also paid $5.375 million in bonuses despite being eliminated in round 16 of the tournament. Meanwhile, the women were paid only $1.725 million after winning the whole thing in 2015.
The success rate of the USWNT is also being matched by intense viewership. The 2019 World Cup final against the Netherlands took the spot for the most watched soccer event on an English speaking channel. The match displaced the USWNT’s previous World Cup win against Japan in 2015, which formerly held the title.
The lawsuit claims that these inequalities violate both the Equal Pay Act and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. These both deal with the prohibition of unequal pay, treatment, or compensation based on gender. In response, the team is asking for pay that is equal to that which the men receive. In an interview with the TODAY Show, Christen Press, a forward for the USWNT, explained, "What we need is an actual pay structure moving forward where we're being compensated equally." Press is not the only one with demands. In fact, 28 members of the team are listed as plaintiffs in the case.
The national team’s popularity did not just stop with their performance for the country. The interest in these players and the game itself has leaked into the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The viewership for the league has increased exponentially in the past few years with many records breaking for attendance.
Volleyball Team Wraps Exciting Season Emily Richardson
The Ballard Volleyball team recently wrapped up a very good season, making it all the way to regionals. The team eventually fell to Assumption, the second ranked team in the nation, who went on to win the state tournament. Our volleyball team had many accomplishments throughout the season, such as beating Christian Academy of Louisville (CAL) not just once, but twice, after losing to them last season. According to Katy Floyd, the team went 15-15 and played some really tough competition including North Oldham, a state tournament semifinalists, and Ryle County who is also ranked. Although the team lost, Floyd reflected on the final match, stating, “It was a great fight and there were some really crazy rallies.”
Floyd was also selected to be a part of the Seventh Region All Tournament Volleyball Team. Still only a junior, this is a big accomplishment. Katy has been a part of the varsity volleyball team since she was just a freshman, and her skills have only increased since then. “My favorite part of the award selection was that I was selected along some of the best players in the state of Kentucky.” Katy said she was really thankful for “How much my teammates helped,” and went on to say, “We all worked really really hard to get out of districts and into region play this year.” Katy plans to continue playing volleyball in college, both sand and indoor.
The team also benefited from its senior leadership this season. Senior Kylie Stephens said, “This season was definitely different because I had to step up and be a leader it put a lot of stress on me but also made it more fun and challenging. Another thing about being a senior volleyball player is worrying about college recruits,” said Stephens, who plans to continue playing volleyball in college for Spalding University. Other Ballard alumni have continued their volleyball careers through college as well, such as 2018 graduate Julia Oswald who now plays beach volleyball for the University of Tampa.
The team made some great accomplishments this year. Floyd stated, “Our biggest accomplishment this year was being able to compete with some of the best teams in the state. We played a ton of really tough competition this year and we played with a fairly young lineup and i was proud of us for being able to step up and compete.”
As the team recuperates from the long season and begins to prepare for next year, the future looks bright for the Ballard Volleyball Bruins.
Floyd was also selected to be a part of the Seventh Region All Tournament Volleyball Team. Still only a junior, this is a big accomplishment. Katy has been a part of the varsity volleyball team since she was just a freshman, and her skills have only increased since then. “My favorite part of the award selection was that I was selected along some of the best players in the state of Kentucky.” Katy said she was really thankful for “How much my teammates helped,” and went on to say, “We all worked really really hard to get out of districts and into region play this year.” Katy plans to continue playing volleyball in college, both sand and indoor.
The team also benefited from its senior leadership this season. Senior Kylie Stephens said, “This season was definitely different because I had to step up and be a leader it put a lot of stress on me but also made it more fun and challenging. Another thing about being a senior volleyball player is worrying about college recruits,” said Stephens, who plans to continue playing volleyball in college for Spalding University. Other Ballard alumni have continued their volleyball careers through college as well, such as 2018 graduate Julia Oswald who now plays beach volleyball for the University of Tampa.
The team made some great accomplishments this year. Floyd stated, “Our biggest accomplishment this year was being able to compete with some of the best teams in the state. We played a ton of really tough competition this year and we played with a fairly young lineup and i was proud of us for being able to step up and compete.”
As the team recuperates from the long season and begins to prepare for next year, the future looks bright for the Ballard Volleyball Bruins.
Ballard Golf: Getting into the Swing
Wesley Holt
Writer & Golfer G.K. Chesterton once said, “Golf is an expensive way of playing marbles.” But the truth is Golf is a difficult sport that requires skill & focus. Golf is also an important part of the Ballard community, even though it is a sport that is often overlooked.
Ballard Golf is still a very small team with only 13 players: 1 Junior, 3 Seniors, 3 Sophomores, and 5 Freshman. The future is bright for the golf team, and the coaches here want to make sure that you know what you are doing when you get out there on the course.
Ballard Golf Coach Chris Huff says Parker Smith is currently leading the way with an average around 72. Parker has been in the top 10 in several of Ballard’s tournaments. Jack Thomas has been averaging around a 76 and has been improving and has a high ceiling. Tony Welton is in his first year as a golfer and is averaging around 84 but is improving daily.
Ballard’s golf team has a very difficult region with Saint. X and Trinity leading the way. Their region tournament is on October 22 at Oxmoor CC and they are looking forward to the challenge of fighting for the big crown.
Ballard Golf is still a very small team with only 13 players: 1 Junior, 3 Seniors, 3 Sophomores, and 5 Freshman. The future is bright for the golf team, and the coaches here want to make sure that you know what you are doing when you get out there on the course.
Ballard Golf Coach Chris Huff says Parker Smith is currently leading the way with an average around 72. Parker has been in the top 10 in several of Ballard’s tournaments. Jack Thomas has been averaging around a 76 and has been improving and has a high ceiling. Tony Welton is in his first year as a golfer and is averaging around 84 but is improving daily.
Ballard’s golf team has a very difficult region with Saint. X and Trinity leading the way. Their region tournament is on October 22 at Oxmoor CC and they are looking forward to the challenge of fighting for the big crown.