Thursday, October 23, 2025

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.”


Wednesday, October 22, 2025

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.”


Tuesday, October 21, 2025

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.


Tuesday, October 14, 2025

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.


Monday, October 13, 2025

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.


Friday, October 10, 2025

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.


Sunday, September 28, 2025

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.


Sunday, September 21, 2025

Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Brooke Mundie (Field Hockey)



For LHS junior Brooke Mundie, field hockey is about more than competition. It’s about family, leadership, and learning to believe in herself.

Mundie, who plays deep center midfielder for the Blue Devils, first picked up a stick in eighth grade after her mother — a former high school player herself — encouraged her to try the sport. 

“My mom introduced me to the sport. She used to play in high school, and I wanted to try it out,” Mundie said. “I was a backup goalie my freshman year, just like her!”

Over time, she grew into her role on the field, where she now thrives as a playmaker and motivator. 

“Field hockey is an amazing team sport,” she said. “I love being able to uplift my teammates and set them up for success in games.”

That spirit of encouragement is matched by the bond she’s built with her teammates. 

“What I like most about being part of the LHS field hockey team is the sense of family we’ve built together,” Mundie said. “It’s more than just a team — it’s a group of people who care about each other on and off the field. We are always there for one another.”

First-year head coach Catherine Brow praised Mundie for her impact on both sides of the game.

“Brooke is the kind of player every coach hopes to have,” Brow said. “As our deep center midfielder, she plays with tremendous poise and effort, always finding herself in the right spot and making the game look smooth. She consistently steps up in big moments, delivering when it matters most. Beyond her skill, Brooke is a quiet leader who leads by example, always supporting her teammates and elevating those around her. She’s not only an incredible athlete, she’s an even better teammate and person.”

Mundie credits her coaches, Kate Phillips and Brow, for helping her grow not only as an athlete but as a person. 

“My head coaches taught me to be more confident. They have always set high expectations for me, and emphasized that mistakes I make do not define me,” she explained. “Whether in practice or games, they pushed me to keep a strong mindset. Over time, that encouragement not only taught me to believe in myself as an athlete, but also a person. I am truly grateful for them.”

Her goals extend beyond her high school years. Mundie hopes to continue playing field hockey in college, whether on a varsity team or a club. She’s also beginning to map out her academic path. 

“I am planning on going to college, and getting a degree in psychology or human resource management,” she said. “There is a lot I am still figuring out.”

At Leominster High, Mundie’s involvement stretches far beyond athletics. She is a member of the mayor’s youth council, National Honor Society, and student government. She points to American Studies history with Mr. Robichaud as her favorite class, and credits Ms. Spylios as a teacher who has made a lasting difference in her life. 

“She has been a person I could always rely on, and always showed that she cared about me not just as a student, but as a person too. I would not be where I am today without her.”

Off the field, Mundie enjoys drawing, spending time with family and friends, shopping, taking her dog for walks, and even coaching her younger sister’s sports teams.

Though she lives in Fitchburg, Mundie has been part of Leominster schools since kindergarten through school choice — and now, as she continues her high school career, she is leaving her mark as a leader, teammate, and role model on and off the field.


Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Sofia Gates (Cross Country)



When Leominster High School senior Sofia Gates laces up her running shoes, she brings more than speed to the course — she brings determination, resilience, and a mindset shaped by years of inspiration from her grandfather.

Sofia didn’t always picture herself as a runner. She joined the cross country team as a junior, though she had been competing in track and field since her freshman year. The inspiration came from someone very close to her — her grandfather.

“The person who introduced me to cross country and track and field is my grampy,” Sofia said. “Growing up, I’d always watch him train every day so that he could beat his times in marathons.”

That early inspiration turned into a passion that continues to drive her. 

“What I love the most about this sport is the way that it has strengthened my want and need of becoming the best version of myself,” she explained. “This sport also strengthened my mental toughness—even outside of the sport, whether it’s at work, in school, or just overcoming any challenges.”

Sofia’s hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed by her coaches. Head coach Karen Marino praised her captain’s growth on and off the course.

“This is Sofia's 2nd year on cross country,” Marino said. “She started this year off with a three-minute improvement from her last year’s best time. She has really worked hard over the summer to become one of the team’s fastest runners. As a team captain, she is a great motivator and example to her peers. It has been very rewarding to me as a coach to watch Sofia improve and grow as an athlete. I truly believe she will take another two to three minutes off her time by the end of the season.”

At Leominster High, Sofia credits her teammates and coaches for helping her thrive. 

“I really like all of my teammates and coaches. They all are very supportive and push you past your limits to help you unlock your true potential,” she said.

Among the biggest lessons she’s taken away is a simple but powerful one: “Be comfortable with being uncomfortable.” It’s a motto reinforced by her coaches and that mindset has paid off. Sofia has seen her performance improve dramatically by focusing on positive self-talk and mental preparation.

Looking ahead, Sofia plans to keep running at the collegiate level. She has her sights set on either Worcester State or Fitchburg State, where she hopes to compete in cross country. But running is only one part of her future vision.

Outside of sports, Sofia hopes to join the North Atlantic Carpenters Union while pursuing higher education with the goal of becoming either a petroleum engineer or an architect.

Her interests stretch far beyond the track. At LHS, she participates in the ski and snowboarding club, and outside of school she enjoys snowboarding, skiing, going to the gym, pilates, carpentry, and even playing basketball for fun. Building projects — cabins, sheds, furniture, or home décor — are among her favorite hobbies.

Academically, her favorite classes have been carpentry and her junior-year courses, and she credits her shop teachers, Mr. Fontaine and Mr. Bachant, as standout mentors.

As she finishes her senior year, Sofia continues to balance athletics, academics, and her many hobbies with the same determination she brings to every race. For her, cross country is more than just a sport — it’s a way to test her limits, build resilience, and prepare for the road ahead.


Friday, September 12, 2025

Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Ava Mazzaferro (Girls' Soccer)



For senior Ava Mazzaferro, soccer has been more than just a sport—it has been a way to escape, to compete, and to grow alongside teammates who feel more like family.

“I’ve been playing soccer since I was four years old,” Ava said. “My parents put me into many sports when I was young, but soccer always stuck with me.”

That passion has only deepened over the years. Now a standout player for the Leominster High School soccer team, Ava values the game not only for its competition but for the freedom it provides.

“What I love most about soccer is how it allows me to leave everything out on the field and not think about any real-world distractions or stress I may have going on in my life,” Ava explained. “When I play, nothing else matters except the game, the moment, and the team. It allows me to feel free.”

At LHS, the team culture has also been a major highlight. “I love the team culture at LHS,” Ava said. “Practices are always fun to be a part of. We can have fun joking around but also get better as a whole.”

This season, the lessons have gone beyond the scoreboard. “(My) coach Jensen (Perez) has taught me that the hardest working team will win the game,” Ava shared. “We have to work hard, be hungry for the win, and play our game to come out on top.”

“Ava Mazzferro has been a leader on and off the field with a great attitude and the drive to work hard,” Perez explained.  

That hard work has already paid off, as Ava is committed to continue playing soccer at the Division II level for Assumption University. There, the future Blue Devil alum plans to major in Business, though the specific focus is still undecided.

Beyond the pitch, Ava stays active at LHS, participating in the Best Buddies club, the National Honor Society, and cheering on other Blue Devil teams. Academically, her favorites have included Spanish 2 with Mrs. Piragis and AP Statistics with none other than her mom, Mrs. Mazzaferro.

Life outside of school is just as full—playing club soccer for the FC Stars ECNL Regional team, working at Paisanos Pizza and Spirits, and spending time with family and friends.

Whether it’s in the classroom, on the soccer field, or in the community, Ava embodies the spirit of what it means to be a Blue Devil: hardworking, team-focused, and always ready to take on the next challenge.


Saturday, May 24, 2025

Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Jaliany Santiago (Flag Football)



Senior flag football standout Jaliany Santiago has lived in Leominster her whole life, attending Frances Drake and Sky View before coming up to Granite Street.  That all will change this fall when she heads south to attend Lindsey Wilson College where she earned a full scholarship to play flag football.

Her ascension to the college ranks is the culmination of a dream that started when she started playing flag football when she was six years old.


“I wanted to play football but I couldn’t so my mom found a flag league and I was one of the first girls to play flag in Massachusetts,” Jaliany said.


Jaliany said she has gotten so much from her time playing flag football.


“The bonds you create and friendships from around the world (are the best things about playing flag football),” Jaliany said.  


Being a part of the Blue Devil team has been a truly special experience as well.


“We’re all like sisters and we’re all talented and it’s a loving team,” Jaliany said.  


She has learned a lot from this experience as well.


“People are always gonna hate on you cause you’re great but at the end of the day you can only control yourself and not what other people say or do,” Jaliany said.


At LHS, Jaliany also played basketball and was on the cheer squad.


“My favorite class so far has to be Mr Mooney's math class my freshman year or my math class my senior year with Ms. D’Aniello.”


Outside of school, Jaliany likes coaching and refereeing flag football.  


Thursday, May 8, 2025

Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Eduarda Silva (Girls' Tennis)



Current junior Eduarda Silva tried out for the girls’ tennis team back in the spring of 2023, earning her way onto the team, and has been a valuable member of the tennis team ever since. 

It was the first time Eduarda had ever played tennis.


My mom introduced me to the sport,” Eduarda said.  “She wanted me to try something new in high school and thought tennis would be a good idea.  I wasn't too excited about it, but she convinced me it would be a great opportunity and that I would eventually fall in love with the sport. Thankfully I did.”


As a freshman, Eduarda was limited to only two matches, but her strong athleticism was something that caught LHS girls’ tennis coach Daryl Robichaud’s attention.  


Following her freshman year, Eduarda went to work building up her game.  


She dedicated many hours in the offseason working on her own as well as with a private instructor to improve her talents,” Robichaud explained.  


"During her sophomore campaign, she was able to compete in nine matches both as a singles and doubles player, which highlighted not only her athleticism but her growing skills on the court,” Robichaud said.  


That effort led her to being voted a tri-captain by her teammates for her junior season.  


"Eddie has taken on the leadership role of being a captain quite admirably,” Robichaud said.  “In the offseason, she researched different fundraising opportunities that may be available and settled on a platform that saw the program raise the largest amount of money in its history."


This year, Eduarda started out playing singles, but has quickly transitioned to an important role anchoring the first doubles slot where Eduarda and her partner won six of their first eight matches.  


"I look forward to my continued time with Eddie on the courts this season and anticipate that she will realize even greater success next year as a senior,” Robichaud said.


Educarda said she loves being a part of the LHS team.


I really like that we get to meet new people from other teams or just other folks that play tennis at Doyle Field. I also love being outside in the sun,” Eduarda said.  “Since we are only a group of thirteen, I love how we grow into a small family by the end of the season.”


She has also learned a lot from her coach.


“Roby has taught me to stay positive no matter what’s going on in my match,” Eduarda explained.  “He’s also taught me to be proud of myself no matter the outcome of a match.”


Eduarda has also recently begun thinking about her post high school plans.


“After high school I plan on going to college,” Eduarda said.  “I don’t know my major yet but I plan on doing something in the area of Architecture or Engineering.”


Here at LHS, Eduarda is a  part of Student Council, Student Government, Program Advisory Committee and G.I.V.E.


“My favorite class at LHS so far has been Honors Geometry with Ms. A,” Eduarda said.  “She always kept the class interesting and easy to understand.  I’ll have to say my favorite teacher was Mr. Robichaud because he made sure his class would be like no other.”


Outside of school, Eduarda likes to go lap swimming since she used to be a competitive swimmer before high school.  


  






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 ...