Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Arianna Pastor (Cheer)

For Leominster High School senior Arianna Pastor, cheerleading has been more than a sport — it’s been a journey of growth, trust, and quiet leadership. Though she didn’t start cheering until her freshman year, Arianna’s background in gymnastics and her deep connection to the program helped her find her footing quickly.

“I actually got into cheer because of my mom,” Arianna said. “She introduced me to it.”

That family connection runs deep. Head coach Tracey Hartman has known Arianna since she was born — she even coached Arianna’s mom years ago in both gymnastics and cheer. 

“The trust needed in a coach-athlete relationship was already set when Ari joined our program,” Hartman said. “Having a parent that understood my coaching philosophy and the standard of what it means to be a student-athlete definitely prepared Ari to be ready to be coached.”

Over the past four years, Arianna has become a model of consistency and effort. 

“She’s eager to learn and patient with herself and teammates,” Hartman said. “Her temperament is predictable — we get the same athlete to coach each day, and she always gives her best effort. To say that is special is an understatement.”

Arianna has been an integral part of LHS Cheer’s success in the Game Day Division, where her flying skills, tumbling, and showmanship have helped the team finish in the top three in the state multiple times, including earning one state championship.

When asked what she loves most about the sport, Arianna’s answer is simple: “Football games.” But beyond the excitement under the Friday night lights, it’s the bonds she’s built with her teammates that mean the most to her. “We’ve created really strong connections,” she said.

Arianna hopes to continue cheering or dancing in college, and she’s already proven she has the drive to do so. At LHS, her favorite class has been Health Assisting with Mrs. Poulin, which reflects her caring and determined nature — qualities that shine both on the sidelines and off.

Coach Hartman summed up her senior’s impact perfectly: “Arianna has grown from novice to veteran in her time with us. She’s steady, coachable, and kind — everything a teammate and coach could hope for.”

Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Brenna Carlin (Field Hockey)

Leominster High School junior Brenna Carlin has quickly become one of the most dependable players on the field for the Blue Devils’ field hockey team. Though she only picked up the sport as a freshman, encouraged by a few friends who had played in middle school, Brenna’s commitment and growth have made her an essential piece of the LHS defense.

“I like the team aspect of the sport and working together,” Brenna said. “I also enjoy learning new skills at practice and being able to incorporate them into the game.”

Her coaches say that team-centered mindset is what makes Brenna stand out. 

“Brenna has really come into her own this season,” said head coach Catherine Brow. “It’s been awesome to watch her develop into such a reliable defender who confidently holds down the fort at center back. She plays with poise and composure and has become a player that we simply can’t take off the field.”

Off the field, Brenna is just as dedicated to her teammates and her school community. 

“My favorite part of our team is the family we’ve created,” she said. “We all support each other and pick each other up when things get hard.”

Beyond athletics, Brenna is an involved student and leader at LHS. She’s a member of the National Honor Society, serves as a student representative for her class, and also competes on the lacrosse team. Academically, she’s drawn to psychology and plans to study child and adolescent development in college, where she hopes to join a club field hockey team.

When she’s not in class or competing, Brenna gives back to her community by volunteering at her church, where she helps lead retreats and works with younger children.

Coach Brow summed up Brenna’s impact best: “Her growth — as a player, a person, and a leader — has been so fun to see. I can’t wait to see what her senior year will bring next fall.”

Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Daniel Orozco Cifuentes (Boys' Soccer)

For Leominster High School senior Daniel Orozco Cifuentes, soccer isn’t just a game—it’s a lifelong passion fueled by family, hard work, and heart. Daniel began playing the sport at just nine years old after being introduced to it by his father. Since then, the game has been a constant source of joy, competition, and purpose in his life.

Daniel has been a four-year varsity starter for the Blue Devils, a player whose versatility and team-first mentality have made him invaluable to the program. Head coach Steve McCaughey praised Daniel’s unselfishness and commitment.

“Daniel has been a four-year varsity starter for me and played an integral role in the success we have had in the last few years,” McCaughey said. “Daniel does whatever is necessary to win. He has switched positions multiple times without complaint to fit the needs of the team.”

Last season, Daniel led as the team’s top striker, but this year, when Coach McCaughey asked him to switch to center back, he didn’t hesitate. His response—“Whatever it takes to win, Coach”—perfectly sums up his character and leadership. 

McCaughey added, “Daniel moved to Texas at the end of his junior season, but his whole family just moved back to Leominster so that he could play his senior season here. He is every coach’s dream come true—extremely talented and willing to run through a wall for you.”

For Daniel, what he enjoys most about being part of the LHS team is the great times shared with his teammates, both on and off the field. The friendships and bonds built through competition mean as much to him as the wins themselves.

He’s also learned valuable lessons from his coaches—especially that success doesn’t come easy. 

“The glory doesn’t come so easy, and to make it easier I have to work harder and get better,” he said, reflecting the same drive that has made him such a dependable leader.

After high school, Daniel plans to continue his soccer journey—hopefully joining Atlético Madrid when he moves to Spain. If that opportunity doesn’t pan out, he’s considering playing for a professional team in Guatemala, who expressed interest in him last year. Beyond soccer, Daniel has ambitions of starting his own company and plans to work hard to make that dream a reality.

When he’s not on the field, Daniel enjoys playing soccer with friends or spending time with his family. He also has his eye on joining the volleyball team this year, eager to keep competing and learning.

His favorite class at LHS has been gym, where he could keep active and connect with his love of sports. As for teachers, Daniel says he’s liked all of them for different reasons, showing the same appreciation and humility that make him such a respected teammate.

As Daniel’s senior season continues, his legacy as a player who gives his all—for his teammates, his coaches, and his school—is already cemented. Leominster is lucky to have him back on the field, where his dedication and passion continue to shine.

Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Annika Hjelm (Field Hockey)

In just a few short years, Annika Hjelm has become a key player for the Leominster High School Blue Devils field hockey team. Now a junior, Hjelm has proven herself as a talented athlete with a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a commitment to her teammates.

“Annika has developed into a strong and reliable player for our team,” said coach Catherine Brow. “She consistently demonstrates confidence and focus on the field, and she is always willing to put in the work to improve. Her positive attitude and team-first mindset make her a valued member of our program.”

Hjelm first picked up field hockey as a freshman, inspired by friends who played. 

“A couple of my friends played, and I wanted to play a fall sport,” she said. 

Over the years, she has grown to love the team aspect of the sport and the way it allows her to develop her skills with each practice and game.

For Hjelm, being part of the LHS team goes beyond competition. 

“I have made so many new friendships that will last a lifetime,” she said. “Our team is like a family, and we support each other both on and off the field.”

Coach Brow praised Hjelm’s development and confidence. 

“Annika has learned to be more confident in herself and her skills, especially in her position on the left side,” Brow said. “She is a dedicated athlete who strives to improve and consistently uplifts her teammates.”

Looking ahead, Hjelm is considering continuing her field hockey career at the club level in college, while also planning to pursue her goal of becoming an elementary school teacher.

Beyond field hockey, Hjelm is active in indoor track and lacrosse and serves as a student representative for the Class of 2027. Academically, her favorite class has been Spanish 3 with Mrs. Piragis, whom she credits for helping her master the language.

Outside of school, Hjelm enjoys spending time with family and friends and giving back to the community. 

“I love to volunteer, whether it is with church, Challenger baseball and basketball, or anything else around the city,” she said. “Being involved with others inspires me to be my best every day.”

For Annika Hjelm, field hockey is more than just a sport — it’s a way to grow as an athlete, build lifelong friendships, and contribute positively to her school and community.

Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Ben Marchetti (Football)

Whether he’s making a tackle on defense or pushing through a long, intense practice, Leominster High School/CTEi junior Ben Marchetti approaches everything with focus, effort, and quiet leadership — the kind of player every coach wants on their team.

“Ben is such a valued member of our football program,” said head coach Devin Gates. “He is extremely coachable and rarely makes the same mistake twice. He’s the leader of the defense and a great weapon on offense. Ben leads by example, on the field and in the classroom. He’s an excellent student and just does everything the right way. He never cuts corners.”

Marchetti first started playing football in second grade, continued through fifth, and returned to the game as a freshman at LHS — a decision that has clearly paid off. 

“I got introduced to the sport (by) watching it on TV and gaining an interest in playing it,” Ben said. “What I like most about football are the friendships and bonds that come out of it.”

Those friendships are what make the team experience at Leominster so meaningful to him. 

“What I enjoy most about being a part of the team at LHS is the friendships and team activities we all do together,” Marchetti said. “It’s always a great time whenever we are all together.”

From his coaches, Ben has learned that success takes both trust and teamwork. 

“I’ve learned that every coach, including our head coach, cares very much about everyone on the team,” he said. “In order to succeed, you have to work together and not get down on one another.”

Coach Gates praised that mindset and the example Ben sets. 

“He has a great motor and flies around the field on defense,” Gates said. “On top of all that, he’s a stellar person with A+ character. Ben’s future is very bright.”

Off the field, Ben keeps just as busy. He’s a member of Best Buddies and the National Honor Society, and he also plays lacrosse for LHS. In the classroom, his favorite course so far has been freshman year history with Mr. Barnaby. 

“I had a bunch of friends in that class, and it was just a great time all year,” he said. “There was no fooling around — we all worked together on classwork and projects and had fun.”

Outside of school, Ben enjoys spending time outdoors and with family. 

“My main hobby throughout the fall season is hunting,” he said. “I’ve grown up hunting with my family and have enjoyed every last minute of it.” 

He also loves dirt biking, fishing, mowing lawns, and hanging out with friends — anything that keeps him active.

Looking ahead, Ben plans to attend college and hopes to continue playing football if the opportunity arises. Academically, he’s focused on pursuing a career in electrical work, a field he’s already studying in the LHS electrical shop program as a CTEi student.  

With his strong work ethic, leadership, and character, Ben Marchetti represents the very best of Leominster High School/CTEi — a student-athlete who excels on the field, in the classroom, and in the community.

Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Lilly Mundie (Girls' Volleyball)

Less than two months after picking up volleyball as a freshman, Lilly Mundie was already swinging her way toward varsity. Now a junior at Leominster High School, Mundie has grown into a standout player whose talent, poise, and leadership have made her an integral part of the Blue Devils’ girls’ volleyball team.

“Lilly Mundie has shown so much potential since day one of her volleyball career,” said head coach Samantha Comeau. “She has made a great name for herself both on our team and throughout the Mid-Wach league because of her strength, high volleyball IQ, and her ability to adjust to any type of play. Lilly remains calm in the most intense situations, and is extremely reliable. We can always count on her to make a smart play, and she always keeps our opponents on their toes.”

For Mundie, volleyball has always been about teamwork and connection. 

“The thing I like most about volleyball is the amount of teamwork it requires,” she said. “This sport is all about trust in yourself and your team. I think that volleyball is one of the sports that relies most on team chemistry and cooperation. I love my teammates and love developing a greater connection with them every time we play, at practice or a game.”

Mundie also values the community she has found within the LHS team. 

“What I like most about being part of the team at LHS is having a distraction from school and things going on outside of it,” she said. “I love being a part of a competitive team that helps me grow as a person and a player. My team at LHS is an incredible group of girls that have made my experience here so much better, and I know we will continue to be friends even after we graduate.”

Her growth as a player is a direct result of her coach’s guidance. 

“I’ve learned many things from Coach Comeau over the three seasons I’ve played,” Mundie said. “She taught me everything about volleyball and made me the player I am today. She also taught me how to have confidence in myself. Every practice my sophomore year she would say, ‘Lilly hit the ball!’ She kept making me hit until I was able to do it on my own. This translated to my life outside of school as well, and I’m so grateful for that.”

Comeau emphasizes not only Mundie’s skill but also her character. 

“Most importantly, Lilly is an incredible teammate and athlete. She is kind, compassionate, and humble. She consistently strives to better herself and those around her, and always celebrates her teammates’ victories over her own. She is a key factor in our team and our program’s success, and we are so lucky to have her.”

Looking ahead, Mundie plans to continue playing volleyball through college club teams while pursuing a career in physical therapy with a major in biology. Beyond sports, she is active in the Mayor’s Youth Council, student government, National Honor Society, and plays lacrosse in the spring. She also enjoys coaching younger athletes, particularly helping her little sister with her middle school basketball and softball teams.

Academics are also a priority for Mundie. 

“My favorite class at LHS so far has been biology freshman year,” she said. “One of my favorite subjects is science and I love to learn about the human body and anatomy. My biology teacher, Mr. Larson, also did many hands-on activities which I enjoy and that help me learn the best. My favorite teacher so far has been Ms. Spylios. She has always been there for me and has helped me finish many tough classes, through academic and social advice. I’m extremely grateful for her, and my experience at LHS would not be nearly as good without her!”

For Lilly Mundie, volleyball is more than just a game. It’s a way to grow as a player, a teammate, and a person — and it’s clear her dedication is leaving a lasting mark on Leominster High School’s volleyball program.

Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Sawyer Corbin (Golf)

Four years ago, Sawyer Corbin picked up a golf club for the first time. Now a senior at Leominster High School, Corbin has become a steady presence on the Blue Devils’ golf team, not only sharpening his own game but guiding a roster full of young players.

Corbin, who was introduced to the sport by his brother, said golf quickly became a way to relax and connect. 

“I like to go golfing and be (calm) with my friends,” he said. 

While his favorite memories include bus rides with teammates, his progress on the course is what has defined his time at LHS.

Head coach Daryl Robichaud praised Corbin’s growth and leadership. 

“Sawyer is in his third year with the team and was elected a co-captain for the 2025 season,” Robichaud said. “Sawyer has shown consistent improvement during his time in the program. He averaged a 51.48 his freshman year while playing in eight matches. He took his sophomore year off to focus on his baseball career. He returned with a vengeance during his junior year where he shaved an amazing 11.26 strokes off of his scoring average.”

That improvement led to a postseason breakthrough. 

“At the end of his junior year, Sawyer qualified to compete in the Division II Western Massachusetts Sectional Championship at Taconic Country Club in Williamstown,” Robichaud said. “His strong showing in that tournament allowed him to move on to the State Championship at Berkshire Hills Country Club in Pittsfield.”

This fall, with six rookies on the team — including four freshmen — Corbin has embraced a new role. 

“With six rookies on this year’s team, Sawyer has really stepped up and into a leadership role on the team and has been very helpful to these new players as they navigate the rigors of tournament golf at the high school level,” Robichaud said.

Corbin himself credits his coach for helping refine his game. 

“I’ve learned many parts of my game from (Coach Robichaid),” he said. “Mostly the short game, putting and chipping.”

Though he doesn’t plan to pursue golf after high school, Corbin has ambitious goals for his future. He is weighing two paths: attending Norwich University or joining the Army.

Away from golf, Corbin is also a member of the Leominster varsity baseball team. He points to sophomore year chemistry as his favorite class and names Mr. Robichaud as his favorite teacher. Outside of school, he enjoys playing both baseball and golf recreationally, as well as spending time with friends.

As he closes out his senior season, Corbin leaves behind a legacy of dedication, improvement, and leadership — qualities that have set an example for Leominster’s next generation of golfers.