Falcons Nest - February 14

O'Neal Athletics
State Playoff and Championship Time!
Varsity Swimming:  
The Lady Falcons displayed incredible grit, determination, and a positive mindset, earning the state runner-up title at the NCISAA State Swim Meet. Nearly every swimmer achieved a personal best, showcasing their dedication and hard work. Michaela Stone, Victoria York, Jordin Reed, Bethany Risseeuw, Morgan Lewis, Malia Stone, and Abigail Schupp were named All-State for their outstanding performances.  
 
The men’s team also had a strong showing, finishing 9th overall at the state meet. Carson Pusser recorded two personal bests in the 50 and 100 free, while Sam Schmitz earned All-State honors in both the 200 Free and 500 Free. It was a remarkable effort by all the swimmers. The coaching staff expressed immense pride in these Falcon athletes and all they have accomplished. 

Varsity Girls Basketball:  
O’Neal vs Faith Christian FINAL: 48-21, W 
The Lady Falcons hosted the Faith Christian Patriots on Thursday, February 13, in the second round of the NCISAA state playoffs, and while the first half was a battle, O’Neal took complete control in the second. 
 
Holding a narrow 16-12 lead at halftime, the Falcons wasted no time making a statement in the third quarter. Just 90 seconds in, they extended the lead to 23-12, forcing a Patriots timeout. From there, O’Neal never looked back, locking in defensively and holding Faith Christian to just nine total points in the second half. 
 
Judah Silbey led the charge with 15 points, while Kennedi Hamner added 10 to help power the Falcons to a decisive 48-21 victory. With this win, O’Neal advances to the quarterfinals, where they will face Rocky Mount Academy on Saturday at 1 p.m. 

Varsity Boys Basketball:  
O’Neal vs. Gaston Day FINAL: 25-79, L 
The Falcons were on the road for a long trip to Gaston Day for the first round of the NCISAA state playoffs. The Falcons came out in the first quarter with their heads up and ready to play against a solid Gaston Day team. The Falcons played tight and tried to hold on to the Spartans as long as possible. In the Second quarter, Gaston Day picked up their pace and started to fight back. The Falcons tried to hold on in the second half, but could not bounce back against Gaston Day. The Falcons are a young team and are continuing to build. We are proud of our falcons. 7th grader Ford Kuester led all scorers with 15 points. Adding to Kuester were Jacob Lindsey (5 points), Jack Manning (3 points), and Max Pashley (2 points). 

All School Cheer:  
The O'Neal All-School Cheer Squad finished the season by cheering at the Round 2 Varsity Girls Basketball State Playoff game. It was an exciting matchup, and the girls' basketball team delivered an outstanding performance. With an impressive victory, the team now advances to Round 3. 
 
The cheer squad had an incredible season, and the coaching staff is extremely proud of their progress and dedication. Throughout the year, the squad embodied the true spirit of O’Neal, bringing energy and enthusiasm back to campus. They have developed strong cheerleading fundamentals, mastering stunts and cheers along the way. 
 
Special recognition goes to captain Hannah Wilcox and co-captain Harper Kate Harless for their leadership. Their commitment kept the team focused and prepared throughout the season and during each game. 
 
For those interested in joining the squad next year, an interest meeting will be held on March 4th at 3:30 PM in the Library. All rising 4th-12th graders are welcome to attend. 
 
Falcon Athletics Looking Ahead - 2/15/25 - 2/21/25:  

Photos by Wendy Hodges

Swimming Runner Up Photo

State Playoffs are wins to proceed. Details will be updated via the school’s website and socials  
 
DAY 
DATE 
OPPONENT 
SPORT 
H/A 
EVENT TIME 
SAT 
2/15/2025 
NCISAA 3rd Round vs Rocky Mount Academy 
VGBKB 
AWAY 
1:00 PM 
TUE 
2/18/2025 
NCISAA Quarter Finals 
VGBKB 
TBD 
TBD 
TUE 
2/18/2025 
Spring Sports Tryouts Begin 
All Spring Sports 
HOME 
Varying  
THU 
2/20/2025 
NCISAA Semi Finals 
VGBKB 
TBD 
TBD 
FRI 
2/21/2025 
NCISAA State Finals Providence Day 
VGBKB 
AWAY 
5:30 PM 
 
 
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