Cheer

The team truly brought the pillar of Spirit to life this season. Led by Co-captains Seniors Lexi Robbins and Hannah Erio, the team showed energy, dedication, and unity throughout their sideline season. Over the summer, the team attended Ultimate Xperience Cheer camp to learn new skills, which they later used in pep rally and halftime performances. They also ran two successful kiddie camps, sharing their love for cheer with younger athletes and building connections within the Naz community. Even when facing challenges and injuries, the team stayed positive and motivated one another through encouragement and laughter. As Senior Hannah Ereio said, “As cheerleaders, we not only cheer on other sports teams, but we cheer each other on as well.”

Boys Cross Country

The 2025 season marked a historic year for the team who captured their first-ever IHSA Regional Championship and qualified for the IHSA State Finals for the first time. Head Coach Michael Sliwinski said he “could not be prouder of our overall performance this season.” Every runner recorded personal or season bests, reflecting months of dedication and growth.

Senior Daniel Lewis led the team, earning his third consecutive State Finals appearance. Senior Anthony Lopez cut more than a minute off his personal best, while freshmen Thomas Gerros and John O’Reilly made immediate contributions to the varsity lineup. Silwinski said his favorite moment came when, “the joy, enthusiasm, and excitement from the team was electric as they realized they had qualified for State.”

Girls Cross Country

The team continued to build on its strong tradition this season, securing another IHSA Regional Championship under Head Coach Joe Wejman. Led by standout performances from Sophomore Kathleen Hardy and Juniors Claire Sigmund Allie O’Halloran, the Roadrunners were consistent all season. Hardy and Sigmund earned All-Conference honors, while Hardy and O’Halloran medaled at Regionals to help secure the title. Wejman said the team’s success came from a balance of veteran leadership and promising newcomers. “The freshmen really impressed us with their development,” he said. “The upperclassmen led by example every step of the way.”

Football

The team once again proved why theirs is one of the top programs in the state. The Roadrunners finished the regular season 8–1, showing growth and consistency throughout the fall. They headed to State after winning the Quarter Final Play Off’s against Lake Zurich. Head Coach Tim Racki said he was, “very impressed with how this team improved week to week” and credited their “consistency and focus in practice” for their success. The season featured standout wins over Joliet Catholic, St. Rita and St. Francis, along with a last-second field goal win over IC Catholic Prep that became an instant highlight of the year. “Homecoming week was tremendous,” Racki said. “The game, the dance, and the spirit across campus were alive with Naz pride.”

Boys Golf

The Boys Golf team ended one of the most successful seasons in Nazareth history under Head Coach David Reed. The Roadrunners went 8–2 in dual meets, won two major invitationals, and set a new ESCC team scoring record with a 296 at the Wedgewood Golf Course invite. Reed said his senior class: Hugh Ascher, Brendan Belden, Tucker Gianares, Connor McKay, Gray Musker, and Sam Wilda was “one of the most successful in Nazareth history.” The team had several record-breaking rounds, including a 291 at the St. Laurence Invite and a 295 at the Nazareth Invite. Wilda tied the all-time school record with a round of 68, Musker added a 70, and Sophomore Axel Perez placed tied for 36th at the IHSA State Finals. Reed said his favorite part of the year was “seeing the improvement across the roster,” noting that nine players lowered their averages by multiple strokes.

Girls Golf

Following last year’s State Finals appearance, the Girls Golf team continued to perform at a high level this season as they moved up to 2A with Head Coach Nicole Jeray leading them. “It was a terrific season! Every girl had a personal best score this year,” Jeray said. Another accomplishment was three girls made ESCC All-Conference: Senior Claire Krema, and Junior Liz Salerno and Sophomore Gabi Giangrande. Krema said, “Golf has given me a second family and a way to find passion for something.”  

Poms and Dance

The team had a strong and spirited fall season, under Head Coach Kristen Yarka and Assistant Coach Kristi Pryzbylski, cheering on the sidelines and performing during halftime at Nazareth football games. “I would describe our team’s performance this season as outstanding,” Yarka said. She said that one of the most rewarding parts of the year was seeing the team grow closer and support one another. Senior Team Captain Gabriella Imbarrato said, “Whether it’s cheering each other on to get a new skill, uplifting each other when we feel defeated, you can feel the support between all of the girls and that we truly want the best for each other…Every single girl is so valued and made a huge difference this season.” Imbarrato said she is proud of what the program has become, the dedication from the girls, and the unwavering support the team has for not only each other, but the Nazareth community. 

Boys Soccer

Under Head Coach Roberto Cianci, the Boys Soccer Team continued to grow and compete at a high level this season. Senior Timothy Lopez expressed how proud he was of the team for making it past the second round of playoffs. He said that no matter what, the team always motivated him with supporting words. Lopez recognizes Senior Team Captains Brendan Boyd and Jacob Chrzanowski as big role models on the team. “During practice, they helped to create a fun, yet challenging environment,” he said.

Girls Tennis

The team, led by Head Coach Jane Veldman, had a great season full of fun and growth. The Varsity Team finished third in their conference, showing steady improvement throughout the year. Veldman said, “We had a good year. Our team had a ton of fun together.” Co-captains Seniors Ava Berner and Meghan Flanagan helped lead the way by organizing team events and keeping everyone connected. Parents also supported the team by hosting get-togethers and team parties. A big highlight of the season was when Junior Elaine McNamara qualified for state and was named to the IHSA All-State Class A Second Team in singles. 

Girls Volleyball

In his first season as Head Coach, Esai Velez led the Girls Volleyball program through a year of rebuilding and energy as they won the 3A Playoffs, Regional, Sectional, and Super Sectionals which qualified them a spot for State. They placed 2nd in the IHSA State Championship.

“Our Seniors showed great leadership and our Juniors brought enthusiasm and drive every day,” said Velez. “Every player made a meaningful impact at some point this season.” Velez said his favorite part of the year was simply coaching the group. “They were hardworking, competitive, and genuinely kind,” he said. “It was a joy to be around them every day.”