Freshman Focus: Who do you think is going to win at the Grammys?
“I think KATSEYE will win because they got unnecessary hate for their last song, and it’ll be cool to see them win.” – Elianny Acosta 
“I think ‘luther’ by Kendrick Lamar & SZA will win because I love that song.” – Jordan Whitehurst 
“I want Tate McRae to win because it’ll be her first GRAMMY, and she deserves it.” – Danica Pekarsky 
“I think Tate McRae will win because I love her vibe.” – Kayla Sparacino 
“I think ‘F1 the Album’ will win for best soundtrack because it made the movie feel more engaging.” – Joseph Adams 
“I think Tate McRae and KATSEYE will win because I love Tate, and KATSEYE had an amazing year” – Adriana Cinolauro 
“I think Billie Eilish will win because she’s one of the most talented and highly accomplished artists of our time.” – Maggie Brusca 
“I think Lady Gaga will win because I love her music.” – Derek Kraese 
“I think KATSEYE will win because they are quickly becoming a girl group that everyone is talking about these days and I love their performance quality so much.” – Juliet Lowery 
“I think Bad Bunny will win because I love Bad Bunny, and he’s performing at the Super Bowl.” – Mikayla Harris
Never “board” at Game “Night”
On December 19, the Black Student Union and the People First Club collaborated to hold Game “Night” in the main building cafeteria to provide funds for Jamacia and Sudan.
Freshman Focus: What keeps you motivated in the winter?
“Playing softball and seeing my friends” – Skyeler Pellowski 
“Playing hockey and looking forward to lacrosse season” – Alexander Mondano 
“Being with my friends who are always with me and music” – Korla Amporful 
“Knowing that at the end of the school day I get to go home and eat” – Cece Boyle 
“Hanging out with my friends” – Gia Malik 
“Being with friends” – Syna Pandya 
“Watching snow fall inside” – Derek Kraese 
“Winter track!” – Natalia Lewczuk 
“Listening to music while I work and limiting my screen time” – Sophia Garrihy
4th annual Rice Festival
On December 10, the Asian American Club held their fourth annual Rice Festival in the main building cafeteria. The club showcased the culture through food, games, and dance.
Girls team takes down wins
The girls wrestling team has built a 6-1 record through dominant dual and tournament performances, a stretch that later earned the program No. 6 ranking in New Jersey.
Boys wrestling top 20 in NJ
The boys wrestling team has continued to uphold excellence with numerous achievements this season an overall record of 11-3 and a 4-1 record in the county.
Girl swimmers make a splash
In a season of improvement for the girls on the swim team, they hold a 2-3 record, their best in three years, with outstanding finishes throughout their roster.
Who is going to win the Super Bowl?
“I think the Seahawks are going to make it to the Superbowl because my family supports them.” – Kaylyn Arhakos 
“I think the Rams are going to be in the Superbowl because they are being consistent.” – Jayden Camacho 
“The Patriots because they are a really good team.” – Sitaara Patel 
“The Seahawks because I bet fifty dollars on them.” – Krish Patel 
“The Bills because Josh Allan deserves to win the Superbowl.” – Harold Denney (Disclaimer: The question was asked before the Bills were eliminated.) 
“The Bears because they can clutch up in the last quarter and they are superior.” – Eva Bhatt (Disclaimer: The question was asked before the Bears were eliminated.) 
“The Bears because Damon likes the Bears.” – Justin Olsen (Disclaimer: The question was asked before the Bears were eliminated.) 
“The Patriots because they are the only team I remember.” – Salome Khorava 
“The Chiefs because Taylor Swift.” – Emilio Reynoso (Disclaimer: The question was asked well after the Chiefs were eliminated.) 
“The Bills because I love the Bills.” – Amy Valazza (Disclaimer: The question was asked before the Bills were eliminated.) 
“The Bills because they make me want to go crazy.” – Arian Lazoja (Disclaimer: The question was asked before the Bills were eliminated.) 
“The Seahawks because they have the best defense.” – Cole Spiro 
“I think the Seahawks because Josh Immanuel likes them.” – Liam Chung
Driven to win
After a rough start in the season, the girls basketball team is back on track, recording multiple wins in recent games. At halfway point of the season, they have acquired a 6-7 record.
Ice hockey records and rivalries
With a 6-2 record in the county, the ice hockey team shows a promising season. On their senior night, the Knights won 11-1 against J.P. Stevens.
Sharing Christmas traditions
Italian Honor Society and Club hosted Buon Natale, a Christmas event, on December 22. Students celebrated by learning about Italian culture and playing games.
A concert to remember
The annual instrumental winter concert took place December 17. An audience gathered in the auditorium to enjoy the nostalgic Christmas feeling everyone craves during the holidays.
Racing to the win
The girls track season set off to a strong start with multiple wins. The team placed high in both the GMC Relays and the Demarest Invitational.
Jazz squad dances to first place
On January 4, the Knights Dance Team’s jazz routine secured first place at the annual Ramapo College Dance Team Invitational.
What did you do over winter break?
“I slept a lot and went out with friends.” – Katie FitzPatrick 
“I went to Old Bridge Public Library and did a puzzle.” – Ethan De Coteau 
“My sister was home from college, so I hung out with her.” – Caitlin Parker 
“I did my nails.” – Victoria Porowski 
“I had a Christmas party with my friends.” – Alexander Oh 
“I watched the finale of Stranger Things, and I hung out with my friends.” – Isabella Soto 
“I went to the Poconos in Pennsylvania.” – Isabella Caizaguano 
“I played Fortnite.” – Nicolas Lugo 
“I watched a lot of movies.” – Marin Pollock 
“I spent quality time with my family and my dogs.” – Alexandra Popyk 
“I went to the gym and hung out with my friends.” – Matthew Bentley 
“I went on vacation to the Bahamas and got really tan.” – Maya Mystkowski
Students receive College Board awards
On November 28, for the first time ever, College Board hosted a recognition ceremony for notable OBHS students.
Who is your favorite teacher this year?
“Ms. Kennedy because she makes her classes really fun” – Faith Green 
“Ms. Mading. She’s a good teacher. She sits down with everyone if they need help.” – Anthony Lepore 
“Ms. Mason is my favorite teacher because she always brings the vibes to the room. She’s always in a mood to get you happy. When you’re sad, she will always bring it up, and she’s just so relatable.” – Angelina Molina 
“Mr. Weiner. He’s just a really nice teacher overall. He’s really chill, and he’s someone you can relate to even though he’s older then me.” – Ibtihaaj Aminu 
“Ms. Pavlonnis because she gives me no homework” – Mark Chin 
“Mrs. Bonfante because she moves at a good pace, and I love her. She’s so sweet to me.” – Fereda Abdelrehim 
“Mr. Torok because he is my gym teacher, and I think he’s cool” – Mark Figueiredo 
“My favorite teacher is Ms. Godfrey. She’s a Chemistry teacher. She’s super sweet and a great teacher.” – Jenna Malik 
“Ms. Mading; she’s so sweet, and when I try to work on math, she makes math easier for me.” – Ashley Lopez Mendoza 
“Ms. Kennedy because she’s really sweet, and she gives me candy” – Safula Kallon
Sweet treats, sweeter competition
The annual Gingerbread house contest, hosted by the Student Senate on December 10 in the main cafeteria, spread holiday cheer through friendly competition and festive, edible decorations.
Holiday charities spread joy
Every Holiday season, Old Bridge high school supports holiday charities like Toys for Tots, the Giving Tree, and a home food drive.
A cheerful holiday concert
On December 10, the OBHS Choir donned their holiday attire and formal wear for their annual Winter Concert. Family and friends celebrated this holiday season together by listening to some jolly performances.
Stranger Things turns OBHS upside down
On November 26, Volume 1 of the last season of Stranger Things dropped on Netflix.
Winter Sports Preview: Boys Wrestling
The boys wrestling team finished second in the GMC Red Division and reached the NJSIAA CJGV Finals, and some individuals made it to the NJSIAA Sectionals.
Freshman Focus: What is your favorite activity to do in the winter?
“Lie inside with a fire and watch TV shows or movies with my family” – Jason Kelly 
“Watch Christmas movies in my Christmas PJs” – Regina Kwan 
“I like playing in the snow with my friends.” – Benjamin Blatt 
“Go ice skating with my friends” – Olivia Bonilla 
“Wrestling” – Yunus Morataya 
“Play in the snow” -Emaan Tareen 
“I love to go snowboarding in the winter with family and friends.” -Paige Green 
“Play Roblox” – Haseen Stevens 
“Make gingerbread houses” -Jasmin Nunez 
“My favorite thing to do in the winter is go to New York City.” -Gabrielle Aaron 
“I like to watch Christmas movies and drink hot cocoa.” -Naina Chhabra
Winter Sports Preview: Girls Basketball
Following an 11-15 season, a quarterfinal loss in the GMC Tournament, and the loss of several seniors, the girls basketball team returns for the upcoming season.
Winter Sports Preview: Boys Basketball
With multiple players graduating or moving on, the boys basketball team enters the new season with opportunities for fresh talent to step into key roles.
Dumplings done right
On November 12, the National Chinese Honor Society hosted Dumpling Day after school in the main cafeteria.
Winter Sports Preview: Track
The winter track team has a big season ahead. For the many seniors returning to the team this year, this season’s races will conclude their high school running career.
Winter Sports Preview: Girls Wrestling
After making it to the quarterfinals of the State tournament last year, the team plans to come back even better with the addition of new team members.
Freshman Focus: What is your favorite Thanksgiving tradition?
“The leftovers in the morning because they taste even better.” – Mikayla Harris 
“Going to my Nana’s and having a big dinner” – Nathaniel Fescoe 
“Meeting with all my family and close friends” – Naisha Agrawal 
“I love eating, cooking, and spending time with my family.” – Vedika Shah 
“Breaking the wishbone since it’s always about luck.” – Pola Mousa 
“I just really love to eat.” – Olivia Templo 
“I like playing left, right, center with my family after dinner; it is a big tradition in my family.” – Kayla Sparacino 
“Eating the food. I love to eat.” – Derek Kraese 
“I like going on a walk with my whole family right after dinner. We walk around and listen to music; it’s sweet.” – Korla Amporful 
“My favorite Thanksgiving tradition is to help my family cook the food so I can eat it all later.” – Gabrielle Aaron 
“The leftovers because I be hungry the next morning too.” – Jordan Whitehurst 
“I like coming together with all my family. I don’t get to see them often, and it’s nice to see them.” – Amyah Gonzalez 
“I love eating and my family coming to visit.” – Natalie Quevedo 
“Eating food with my family at my grandma’s house.” – Caleb Mesina
Winter Sports Preview: Swimming
After the swim teams’ challenging seasons last year, they go into this season optimistic.
Marching Champions
On November 8, the MarchingKnights won the US Bands Group I Open National Championship and earned wins for Best Music, Best Visual, and Best Percussion.
Knights charge to State Finals
The football team powered to the NJSIAA Central Jersey Group IV Tournament Finals. with steady defense, explosive scoring, and relentless determination.
Harvest for the community
The Community Care Club hosted Harvest for Care, their first event of the year, on November 19. Around 75 attendees and club members fundraised for the Old Bridge Food Bank, listened to the guest speaker, played games, and more.
Winter Sports Preview: Bowling
After tough seasons last year, the bowling teams plan to rebuild. This year, the bowlers set a high standard and started working towards a better season.
Winter Sports Preview: Ice Hockey
The hockey team comes off their second winning season in a row, ready to succeed once again. This year, they expect to defend their Community Cup title and take home more victories.
Volleyball wins State Championship
The 32-1 girls volleyball team won the NJSIAA Group IV Tournament for the first time in school history. The Knights beat Westfield 3-2 in the tournament finals.
Welcome, Superintendent Sasso!
On December 1, Dr. Vincent Sasso will become the superintendent of Old Bridge Township Public Schools after serving as principal of OBHS since 2013.
Soccer streaks to success
The boys soccer season ended with a 14-6-2 record, including a 12-game undefeated streak lasting over a month. The boys made it to the NJSIAA CJ Group IV Semifinal game with many impressive wins along the way.
Crossing the finish
The boys cross-country team competed at NJSIAA Sectionals where Daniel McFarland and Ronald Ciaccia qualified for the Group IV State Championship. The boys and girls raced well in the GMCs, with the boys placing seventh and the girls placing fifth.
Over the Moon for Mooncakes
The National Chinese Honors Society led the Mid-Autumn Festival celebration on October 6 during both lunch periods.
Have you heard the “Rumors”?
The drama department will premiere the annual fall comedy, “Rumors,” on November 20. The cast and crew have worked extensively to produce an outstanding show.
OBHS hosts college fair
On September 30, Old Bridge High held a college fair organized by Grace Patella of the Guidance Department. The college fair allowed students to learn about schools and ask questions about various programs.
Champion volleyball team blocks to the top
The 32-1 girls volleyball team secured a win in the NJSIAA CJG4 Finals to set up a rematch with Williamstown, the team that knocked them out of the NJSIAA Tournament last year.
Freshman Focus: How does ninth grade compare to the middle school?
“So far high school is so much harder than middle school. Mainly because grades actually matter for high schools.” – Peyton Kugel 
“I feel free in high school, but it is a lot harder than middle school.” – Caleb Mesina 
“There’s a lot more responsibilities, and the work is definitely harder.” – Maggie Attaya 
“We have more freedom and classes, and it can be a lot more fun. ” – Jamie Kopitskie 
“Middle school felt too hard on us, and high school feels so much freer.” – Logan Rosenvinge 
“There are so many new people. I get to meet and many more opportunities and clubs!” – Maheen Jibran 
“High school is better than middle school.” – Fabian England 
“There are more people, and it’s harder, but I have the opportunity to meet more people and get exposed to new things.” – Mira Trivedi 
“Ninth grade is hard compared to middle school. The work is harder, and we need to manage our time carefully.” – Jayden Yu 
“High school is a lot more relaxed and easy going.” – Savannah O’Brien 
“Ninth grade is different than middle school because the work we get is way harder than the work we did in middle school.” – Maurizio Coco 
“I feel ninth grade gives us the ability to become responsible. It lets us be more independent. It also helps us prepare for the future.” – Elizabeth Barsoum 
“It’s a lot harder. The workload is a lot and since there is so much work, it’s hard to get sleep.” – Jason Kelly
Tennis serves wins in Red Division
After moving up to the GMC Red Division this year, the girls tennis team earned a record of 10-8.
What is your favorite thing about the fall?
“Picking out cute fall outfits” – Karolina Parashchuk 
“Going apple picking” -Mark Figueiredo 
“Taking part in community service for ROTC” – Dania Sanchez 
“Drinking pumpkin spice lattes” – Chris Ugorji 
“I like going pumpkin picking.” – Ciara Alves-Guintela 
“I like to do fall makeup on my cousin.” – Giselle Mejia 
“Going pumpkin picking” – Ryan Jaico 
“I enjoy making leaf collages as a fall activity.” – Ibtihaaj Aminu 
“Baking fall themed cookies” – Eric Tanner 
“I like painting pumpkins.” – Leena Awad
Field hockey hits milestones
The field hockey team has rolled to a 17-4 record and many other accomplishments, including making it to the GMC Tournament Finals, finishing first in the Red Division, and setting school records.
Girls soccer wins GMCs
On Friday, October 31, the girls soccer team won the GMC tournament for the first time in school history. After two overtimes, the team secured the win with a shoot-out.
What is your favorite movie to watch this time of the year?
“The Michael Myers movies because he pops up out of nowhere, and it scares me.” – Marcial Rodriguez 
“The Conjuring because it’s scary.” – Madeline Szakielo 
“Lights Out because it’s genuinely scary, and there is a lot of of jump scares. It also includes funny moments.” – Justin Burch 
“Scream because I love the series and the plot.” – Jolie Pardo 
“The Conjuring because there are a lot of jump scares. It’s a really old and good movie.” – Chingiz Saydiloev 
“It because it’s scary.” – Michael Nasr 
“Hell Fest because it’s scary and a lot of people die.” – Jasmine Elsherbini 
“Scream because it’s like a mystery.” – Jeremy Gloria 
“I like the Paw Patrol movie because it’s cute.” – Jordan Hernandez 
“Ghost Face. It tends to have me on edge, and it’s funny.” – Felix Montero-Ruggiero
Success in GMCs leads to Sectionals
The gymnastics team placed third overall in the GMC Championship with a total score of 102.175. The season resulted in a multitude of personal highlights and a 4-4-1 record.
What is your favorite Halloween candy?
“Smarties, because they’re fun and very colorful and tasty.” – Isabella Monaco 
“Lollipops and Skittles, because they come in many flavors and they are sweet.” – Raphael Capangpangan 
“Twix, because the chocolate and caramel mix well together.” – Olivia Ruperto 
“M&M’s because you can put a bunch in your hand and throw them into your mouth.” – Justin Weiner 
“Candy corn, because it is nice and sweet.” – Kamaiya Penson 
“Reese’s, because they are yummy.” – Noah Rivera 
“Skittles, because I like the different flavors.” – Esther Bedell 
“Skittles, because they’re colorful and rainbow.” – Nicholas Velasco 
“Snickers, because they are just good.” – Ileany Encarnacion Castellanos 
“Snickers, because they taste good.” – Sashin Karki 
“Kit-Kats, because of the wafers, and the milk chocolate taste.” – Juliana Vittitoe
Marching to 1st Place
The Marching Band has carried a wave of momentum through their fall season, taking first place at multiple competitions while earning top honors in music, visual performance, and overall effect.
What are you doing for Halloween?
“I’m going to my friend’s house to watch Halloween movies and bake.” – Morgan Sanogo 
“I’m going to knock on doors and ask for candy.” – Rachel Nagy 
“I’m going trick-or-treating at my friend’s house and wearing matching onesies with them.” – Eva Bhatt 
“I’m going to my friend Kate’s party dressed as Chica.” – Tatum Jones 
“I’m either going trick-or-treating or watching scary movies.” – Yasmine Dahou 
“I’m going to an ROTC Halloween party.” – Angelina Molina 
“I’m going to go trick-or-treating with my friends and family.” – Sitaara Patel 
“Having a sleepover with my friends.” – Maria Kennedy 
“I’m doing a scary movie night with my family.” – Alex Oh 
“Having my friends over at my house.” – Ishaan Patel 
“I’m going out with three different costumes: Barney, a sailor, and Rita from Dexter.” – Katie FitzPatrick 
“I’m going to Spirit Halloween and I’m gonna buy something that looks cool.” – Liam Chung
Return of late buses
Last school year, the Board of Education removed all late buses for after-school activities due to budget issues. Starting in October, the 4pm late bus will run every Wednesday.
Bingo brings the buzz
On October 7, underclassmen gathered in the cafeteria to have a great night with friends and take their shot at winning various prizes.
What was the song of the summer?
“I think the song of the summer was ‘Callaita’ by Bad Bunny becasue it makes me feel like I am at the beach.” – Mariah Mack 
“I personally think the song of the summer was ‘3005’ by Childish Gambino has a very summery vibe to it. You’ll always hear this song playing in fairs, amusement parks and more.” – Evelisse Frias 
“I think the song of the summer was ‘Just Keep Watching’ by Tate McRae because it’s just so good and such a vibe.” – Bella Velez 
“I think the song of summer was the ‘Manchild’ by Sabrina Carpenter because for like a good solid month or two it was the only song you would see people dancing to.” – Luke Tenebruso 
“The song of the summer was ‘TBH’ by PARTYNEXTDOOR because it has a nice vibe to it and reminds me of going to the amusement park or the beach.” – Delilah Innocent 
“I think the song of the summer was ‘Club paradise’ by Drake because it reminds me of a night at the beach on vacation or a late-night drive to dinner.” – Miley Vargas 
“The song of the summer is ‘Mystical Magical’ because it fills me up with lots of emotions, and it’s such a good song.” – Daniel Levenhar 
“I think the song of the summer was ‘Midnight Sun’ by Zara Larson because the instrumental and the dance to the song gives off summer song of the year.” – Tashpia Uddin 
“I’d say the song of the summer is ‘Beaches’ by Beabadoobee because it’s a perfect fit for summer and one of my favorites.” – Alexa Ross 
“The song of the summer is ‘Ocean Drive’ by Duke Dumont because it just reminds me of driving in the sunsets.” – Laila Shahin
Knights Fall for Homecoming
Seniors and juniors danced the night away at Homecoming on October 9. The event had the main cafeteria filled with students celebrating their return to school through music, dance, and their best attire.
All out for Pink Out
On October 3, students and staff came together to attend the biggest event of the season, Pink Out. Various clubs and classes held fundraisers to help support the cause and the scholarship fund.
Girls soccer beats biggest rivals
The girls soccer team has a strong record of 12-2-1and 6-0-1 in the Red Division. They have found success against two of their toughest opponents, East Brunswick and Monroe.
What is your favorite pop culture moment?
“Rachel Berry saying ‘Pleak’ in her NYADA audition on Glee” – Isabella Lugo 
“Pete Davidson and Timothy Chalamet singing Skeet Yurt on SNL” – Sandro Quinones 
“Lady Gaga’s VMA performance in 2009” – Krysten Cotango 
“The announcement of Taylor Swift’s new album” – Juliana Vittitoe 
“Lady Gaga’s meat dress” – Evan Van Name 
“Little Timmy Tim” – Raphael Capangpangan 
“When Jennifer Lawrence was drunk at the Oscars” – Ahrabella Pagano 
“Fergie doing the one-handed cartwheels on Good Morning America” – Camille Johnson 
“Debby Ryan’s red carpet moments” – Riley Cleary 
“‘I love your confidence’ from Jennifer Aniston” – Michelle Lam
Knights run up the score
Knights football started the season 4-1 while outscoring their opponents 163 to 48. The players already have some huge wins under their belt, such as Cedar Creek and South Brunswick.
All aboard, seniors!
On September 15, 440 seniors dressed to the highest degree made their way to the Dinner Cruise. The cruise allowed seniors to take in the sights of the New York City skyline while enjoying the luxuries of the ship.
Girls tennis starts strong in Red Division
With three straight wins to start the season, girls tennis team quickly proved themselves in the GMC Red Division after moving up from the White Division.
What are you looking forward to this year?
“Meeting new people.” – Neo Mohapeloa 
“I’m looking forward to doing hair!” – Jacob Rosa 
“Prom!” – Abby Mahmoud 
“Graduating” – Sophia Egan 
“The last day of school” – Alexander Oh 
“Senior events.” – Alyssa Bumbico 
“Finishing college applications” – Victoria Porowski 
“Knights Out.” – Sandro Quinones 
“I’m most looking forward to running Metropolitan club and all the senior activities this year!” – Scarlett O’Brien 
“The senior events!” – Esha Mehta
Field hockey off to undefeated start
The field hockey team currently holds a record of 6-0, dominating the Red Division as well as out-of-division opponents.
Sun, sand, and so many feelings
Over the summer, teens tuned in every Wednesday to watch the new episode of The Summer I Turned Pretty based on the novels by Jenny Han.
Undefeated volleyball team set for success
The girls volleyball team has started the season undefeated in their first five games without even losing a single set.
What advice do seniors have for freshmen?
“Nothing is as serious as you might think and go to every event.” – Michelle Sienkiewicz 
“I would give the advice of don’t be afraid to go for it. Whether it be a sport, or a show, etc. The rejection can hurt, but you won’t know unless you try!” – Lila Feldman 
“Always try your best.” – Amelia McNulty 
“Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.” – Jessica Orloff 
“Take your classes seriously and don’t take everything for granted.” – Harold Denney 
“Participate and try everything.” – Alana Phillips 
“Be kind to others and put yourself out there as who you are.” – Landon Moscariello 
“Pass your classes and don’t get into any unnecessary drama.” – Jolie Vasfailo 
“You only live once; don’t be afraid to be who you are!” – Zoe Chin 
“Be involved and never change for others. Be yourself in and out!” – Jordan Rosenthal 
“Participate in everything you can and have fun!” – Sophia Torre
Knight Life 