Photo Credit: Thomas Kiely
It’s no secret that LCHS is home to several top-tier athletic programs – girls’ volleyball, girls’ water polo, and boys’ swim & dive have each soared to the top of their divisions. They couldn’t have gone so far without the help of some truly incredible athletes. On Wednesday, November 13, three seniors officially took the next steps and made the transition from Varsity to Division I athletics. Emily Weirick (12), Tess Fundter (12), and Danny Syrkin (12) committed to play volleyball at Fordham University, water polo at UC Davis, and swim/dive at USC, respectively.
Standing at 6’0”, Emily Weirick’s presence on the volleyball court is not easily overlooked. However, it’s her skill as an outside hitter that makes her truly stand out among other talented players.
According to coach Laura Browder, in addition to her athletic prowess, “[Emily] has this personality of the natural alpha of the team.”
Her leadership skills both on and off the court make her a promising addition to Fordham University’s volleyball program, where she looks forward to developing a “family dynamic” with her teammates and competing at a higher level.
Tess Fundter made a commitment to the Aggies on Wednesday, furthering the water polo career she’s been building since the age of seven. Last year, Tess was named part of the All-Area Girls’ Water Polo Second Team; she also won a gold medal in the Junior Olympic Championships. Her passion for the game has led her to develop new friendships, which she values deeply.
In Tess’ words, “I’ve gotten to know a lot of people by playing water polo and I’m excited to play against and represent UC Davis while doing so!”
Finally, if you know one thing about Danny Syrkin, it’s that he swims. Danny’s rigorous training schedule and fierce work ethic recently earned him the title of 2019 Boys’ Athlete of the Year. His mindset has also been a key component to his success as a competitor.
When asked about his advice for younger athletes hoping to get recruited, he responded, “Fall in love with the process of getting better, even if at times it’s more frustrating than anything.”
Danny is incredibly excited to help the Trojans surge to become a national powerhouse program; in his words, “I’m looking forward to that pursuit of something bigger than myself”.
If you pass by Emily, Tess, or Danny in the halls, make sure to wish them congratulations and good luck in their future athletic endeavors. They’ve made the Spartan community proud!
