Around the Nest: 10/03/2024

Around the Nest: 10/03/2024
Pictured from left to right are Tori Nessly ’25 (1 goal, 1 assist), Gabi Shepherd ’27 (1 goal, 1 assist), Harold winner Kate Zottarell i’26 (1 goal), Layla Kent ’26 (2 goals), and Grace Shepherd ’25 (1 goal).

Field Hockey

10/01 W 6-0 vs. Tome School

Submitted by Coach Matthews

On Tuesday, 10/1, Gunston traveled to Tome School for their next ESIAC conference matchup. The Herons soared to victory with a 6-0 win. Pictured from left to right are Tori Nessly ’25 (1 goal, 1 assist), Gabi Shepherd ’27 (1 goal, 1 assist), Harold winner Kate Zottarell i’26 (1 goal), Layla Kent ’26 (2 goals), and Grace Shepherd ’25 (1 goal). Genevieve Baughman ’26 also recorded an assist. Goalie Lorelei DeGour ’28 recorded 3 saves for the Herons.

Gunston Boys JV Soccer Fall 2024

Boys Junior Varsity Soccer

09/27  W 1-0 vs. Key School

Submitted by Coach Salles

In a highly anticipated matchup, Gunston faced off against Key School, emerging victorious with a hard-fought 1-0 win. This game showcased a different mentality from the team, as they bounced back from last week's discouraging defeat and demonstrated significant improvement across the board. Throughout the week’s practices, Gunston focused on addressing their weaknesses, and it clearly paid off on the field. The players displayed resilience and determination, turning their frustration into motivation. Defensively, they were consistent and disciplined, shutting down Key School’s offensive efforts and limiting their scoring chances.

The game’s lone goal came from Landon Kelley '27, who capitalized on a crucial opportunity. His calm finish not only secured the win but also highlighted the team’s growth and adaptability. The overall performance was a testament to the hard work put in during the week, as Gunston played with confidence and cohesion. This victory marks a pivotal moment for Gunston, as they continue to build on their progress and strive for success in the upcoming matches. With a renewed spirit and a focus on teamwork, the team looks forward to the challenges ahead.

10/01  T 1-1 vs. St. John's Catholic Prep

In a thrilling game Tuesday evening, Gunston faced off against MIAA opponent St. John's Catholic Prep, ending in a hard-fought 1-1 draw. Throughout the game, Gunston’s defense held strong against St. John’s offensive pressure, while their midfielders worked diligently to control possession. The only goal was scored by Archer MacGlashan '28 but everyone displayed impressive teamwork and resilience. As the match entered its final minutes, both teams pressed for a winning goal, but the defenses held firm, and the game concluded in a 1-1 stalemate. Their next game is Thursday, October 10th at Friends School of Baltimore.

Photo by Parker WIlson '27

Photo by Parker Wilson '27

Varsity Volleyball

09/27  W 3-0 vs. Key School

Submitted by Coach Henry

The Gunston Varsity Volleyball team improved their record to 10-2, with a 3-set victory over Key School, 25-12, 25-6, 25-16 on Friday night, Sept. 27. The Herons received strong offensive performances by Alie Merkle ’28 (7 kills, 6 serving aces), Liv Labrador ’27 (7 kills, 2 aces), Phoebe Kelly ’25 (4 kills, 2 aces), and Mia Walker ’25 (4 kills, 1 ace). The hitting attack was set up by Emma Nkanza ’26 with her team-leading 15 assists. Defensively, Gunston was led by sophomore libero Scotia Hopper, who contributed many rally-saving digs & passes. The Herons also received contributions from Chloe Bennett ’27 from her defensive specialist position, as well as Addison Coldwell ’28 (1 ace), Kate Andrews ’26 (3 aces), Lilly McDonald ’27 (1 kill), Lizzy Chiochetti ’27 (3 assists), and senior Ally Lutz from her serving specialist position.

Gunston Girls Varsity Soccer Fall 2024

Girls’ Soccer

09/27/24: W 3-2 v. The Salisbury School

Submitted by Coach D’Antonio

On Friday, September 27th, the Herons Girls Varsity Soccer team faced a challenging non-conference match against the Key School Obezags on Soccer Island, resulting in a narrow 2-1 loss in the final moments. Despite the setback, the Herons displayed resilience and returned to form on Tuesday with a thrilling 3-2 victory over ESIAC rival, The Salisbury School. After a scoreless first half, the Dragons took the lead just 15 seconds into the second half. But at the 16:32 mark, Addi Temple '28 delivered a free kick from 35 yards out that Abby Philippon '27 capitalized on, scoring from about 8 yards out to tie the game. The Dragons responded with another goal shortly afterward, but Captain Vee McCluskey '25 threaded a perfect pass to fellow Captain Nina Johnston '25, who struck a clean shot into the net, equalizing at 2-2.

The Herons refused to back down. With under 7 minutes left, Olivia Blusk ’27 made a decisive run from 25 yards out, blasting a shot into the bottom right corner to seal the win for the Herons. This comeback victory improves their record to 5-2-1, as they prepare to face the Sabres of Sts. Peter and Paul on Friday back at Soccer Island. Key highlights include McCluskey's stellar performance, earning them the prestigious Henry Heron Warrior Award, Blusk’s game-winning strike that earned her the "Tony Chocolonely Bar," and Hannah Mae Conner '26 being honored with the game ball as Player of the Match. Join us at Soccer Island this Friday at 4 pm as the Herons aim for their 6th win of the season against the Sabres!

Cross Country Fall 2024

Cross Country

Submitted by Coach Stephenson

The boys and girls Cross Country teams represented Gunston at the 52nd annual Tidewater Invitational at Winterplace Park in Salisbury on October 2. On a beautiful day for racing, 16 Herons runners competed in a field of over 30 schools from all across Delaware and Maryland. In the girls race, with nearly 300 runners, Gunston placed 17th out of 31 teams and ahead of all of our ESIAC conference opponents! Phoebe Fritz ’28 placed 51st overall with seniors Grace Hanlon and Margaret Randolph finishing in the top 100! The boys field was absolutely stacked with incredibly strong runners, with 375 competing in the race. Gunston's top 5 boys, led by senior Zach Steinberg (157th) all finished within the top 200 with many like Eli Shenk ’28 and Lucas Watkins ’26 setting season-best times! 

Next up, the girls travel to Worcester Prep on Tuesday, October 8, and the boys are home against fellow MIAA schools on Wednesday, October 9, when we will honor all of our seniors! 
 

  • around the nest
Herons Soccer Team Caps Finest Season with ESIAC Title!

The Gunston School Herons Girls Soccer team has capped its most successful season in program history by defeating Saints Peter and Paul 3-1 to win the Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference (ESIAC) championship!

Around the Nest: 10/30/25

ESIAC All Conference announced! Plus Our T1 Sailors finished strong, placing 4th out of 12 teams. Meanwhile, the Crew team proudly represented us at the Head of the Schuylkill Regatta.

Around the Nest: 10/24/2025

Girls Varsity Soccer charged into the ESIAC Championship match with a decisive 4–1 victory over Worcester Prep, setting up a highly anticipated rematch against Saints Peter & Paul. Not to be outdone, Varsity Boys Soccer secured a dominant 5–0 win over Cristo Rey (led by Van Topjian's 3 goals), and JV Boys Soccer edged out a tough 2–1 victory against MIAA competitor Pallotti. Meanwhile, Field Hockey celebrated Captain Layla Kent ’26 being named ESIAC Player of the Year, honoring her 62 career goals and unmatched impact on the program, and Varsity Volleyball is on their way to the Championships!