Lucas Whitely

As a freshman at Lake Forest High School, many students are shy, intimidated, and overwhelmed when they first arrive at the beginning of the school year. As a result, many freshmen join a sport as an opportunity to continue their passion and interests, as well as meet other LFHS students. 

When Lucas Whiteley went to soccer tryouts a few weeks before school started, he stood out among the group of nearly 70 players. Lucas was taken by Coach Rob Parry for the Varsity Soccer Team, the first freshman taken on varsity in nearly 10 years. Since he was taken, he has established himself as a starter and a nearly 80-minute game player. 

Coach Rob Parry praised Lucas’ talents as a soccer player. 

“He’s as talented a freshman as we’ve had in a long time. Because we had to move Theo [Jamboretz] to forward, we had an opening at left back and he’s started every game for us. He’s been exceptional and someone we will build around for the next three years,” Parry said. 

The Boys Varsity Soccer Team is made up of around 25 juniors and seniors, with Lucas being the lone freshman. Players on the team have appreciated his talents and work ethic on the field, and have also appreciated his character as a friend and teammate. 

Captain Ryan Knight spoke about Lucas’ importance to the success of the team. 

“Lucas has not only been an asset to our team on the field but also off of the field. As a freshman he has started practically every game and brings all his energy and spirit to every practice,” Knight said. 

Senior Bronson Kuever praised Lucas’ character and maturity.

“He is a really hard worker and always uplifts his teammates no matter how they perform. Even though he is a freshman, he is mature and it feels like he is our age even though he is two or three years younger than us,” Kever said. 

Lucas has shown a lot of potential in his talent and character. He is someone who will play an important role for the Scouts over the next few years.

Stella Smith

Junior Stella Smith has a positive personality as well as a bright future. You can find Stella playing on the field on Varsity field hockey, or in the library getting school work completed in time to spend time with friends and family. Her passion is to travel the world while taking as many pictures as she can.

Her dedication and determination on the field is like no other. After the COVID pandemic, Stella decided to give field hockey another try. Going on her second year playing for Varsity, she has grown in so many ways, from her quick reflexes to her cheerful team spirit. 

Her teammate Claire Borega had positive things to say about her on the field as well as her trying her best to be a leader and good influence. 

“She’s a very hard-working teammate, and she leaves it all on the field. Watching her is exciting because of her flawless movements and stellar stick skills,” said Borega.

One of her closest friends, Livia Lima, also had great things to say about her as a friend and someone whom you can always go to for advice or help.

“Stella is the type of friend that will always be there for you no matter what, she can make a light up with her bright personality,” said Lima.

Out of school and sports, you can find her traveling around the world to see as many people and places as possible. Her adventurous side will also come out when there is something new to try like food. You can also see her at concerts or festivals listening to new music or some of her favorite artists.

Jenna Nagel

Sophomore Jenna Nagel is quickly making her mark at LFHS as a key member of the Varsity Cheer Team. As one of the younger athletes, Jenna’s dedication, energy, and passion for cheer have earned her a well-deserved spot on the team. She brings enthusiasm to every practice and game, lifting her teammates’ spirits and energizing the crowd.

“Jenna is an amazing person on and off the team, and she’s always pushing herself to do her best,” said sophomore Stella Olivi.

Outside of cheer, Jenna enjoys traveling. Some of her favorite spots are the Dominican Republic, Turks and Caicos, and soaking up the sun in Cabo, she’s always ready for an adventure. 

In addition to her commitments as an athlete, Jenna is a dedicated student. She takes her academics very seriously. She is known for her determination; Jenna ensures that schoolwork remains a priority, often staying late to study or complete assignments after long cheer practices. 

Jenna’s friends describe her as loyal and caring, always there when they need her—whether to lend an ear or brighten their day with her positivity. Despite her busy schedule, she consistently makes time for her friends.

“Jenna is the kind of friend everyone wishes they had. She’s always there when you need her, whether it’s to cheer you up or just listen. Her kindness and loyalty make her such a special person, and I feel so lucky to have her in my life,” said senior Peyton Hallas.

Balancing school, cheer, and her personal life, Jenna shows how hard work and kindness can go hand in hand. With her positive attitude and dedication to both her team and her friends, Jenna Nagel is sure to continue making a lasting impact at LFHS for years to come.

Scott Covey

After being in a class with Mr. Covey, it is noticeable that he brings an unmatched amount of positivity day in and day out.  His upbeat attitude and drive to make the classroom a fun and engaging environment is what make him stand out.  Math is notorious for being a bland and boring subject, but Mr. Covey is able to reverse that idea.  His unique style of teaching with fun class activities makes Math enjoyable for all students.

“Math is usually my hardest class to get through, but Mr. Covey made it a lot more fun,” said senior Tito Ford.  “The energy he brought every day really made a difference in my overall mood for the day.”

Mr. Covey is also well known for having a specific activity to begin class each day.  These include Trivia Tuesday, Fun Block Day Activitiy, and Words of Wisdom on Friday.  Each activity takes just a few minutes, but it allows students to have a little fun before having to focus on schoolwork.  It is something that all students look forward to before beginning their work.

Senior Simon Back appreciated the few laid-back minutes before class.

“Having a fun activity to begin class was nice because it helped me relax and get focused for the rest of class.  I think it’s something that all teachers should incorporate,” Back said. 

Outside of the excitement that he brings to class, Mr. Covey is a caring and passionate teacher who will stop at nothing to help his students.  He is constantly running around the room helping students with their work. 

“Mr. Covey was always there for help during class,” said sophomore Nick Pasquesi.  “He would see multiple kids who needed help and made sure to get to all of them.  It looked tiring, but I could tell that helping student after student was something he loved to do.”

Those who know Mr. Covey recognize that he is certainly making a difference at LFHS.  

Dave Gray

In the pool and in the History classroom, Mr. Dave Gray takes time out of his day in the hall to make conversation with all students and makes them feel welcome at LFHS. He brings a unique vibrant energy to the classroom that brightens his students’ moods which makes them want to be in his class and ensures that his students not only learn but enjoy the process as well. His humorous personality makes him a well-respected and admired teacher at our school. 

Junior Emmie Brown says, “Mr. Gray is such a great teacher, role model, and person. He makes learning fun and is always so understanding of his students. I’m so grateful to have gotten to have him as a teacher my freshman year. He’s had such a positive impact on my high school experience and he’s the kind of teacher you never forget.”

Students describe him as someone who cares about their successes, both academically and athletically. His ability to connect with students regardless if they are in his History class or on the swim team has earned him a great reputation at Lake Forest High School. 

While getting to know him on the pool deck when I was at dive practice, I noticed Gray’s amazing coaching skills. He cares about the divers as well and makes sure to always talk with us when we see him before practice.

This year he also stepped in as the Girls’ Swim coach as well for the fall season where in the past, he was coaching football for the high school. In both swim and football, the athletes he has coached in the past and present all admire him. 

Having Mr. Gray as a History teacher is a highlight for the students at LFHS.

“Mr. Gray was a teacher who made me feel welcomed to the school during my freshman year and always made me laugh. He has a way to always make you laugh no matter what,” said junior Aedan Cassidy. 

Mr. Gray is a true example of how learning and sports can be both educational and enjoyable when led by someone who loves what they do.