Chris Drummond is a proud Methacton graduate who loved this community so much that he remained here to raise his family and take on the family business. Chris had much to share as he reflected on his journey from Methacton High School to his current position as president of Penny's by Plaza Flowers. He’s always been a hard worker -- even as a student while juggling his academic responsibilities with his mother's burgeoning flower business. But, it was his experiences outside the classroom that had really shaped him.
Alumni Spotlight
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Sara Markley - MHS '19
Posted by Dr. David Zerbe on 1/19/2024Less than five years ago, Sara Markley walked the halls of Methacton High School as a student. Today, she’s back in those same halls with a whole new perspective – and career -- as a Special Education teacher at her alma mater. “I have been really enjoying my time at Methacton High School. It is so great to be back and work with some of the teachers I had in high school.”
Sara attributes much of her personal and academic growth to two of her high school teachers -- Ms. McCauley and Mrs. Peterman. “Ms. McCauley always believed in me and always encouraged me to do my best. She is a teacher that I could trust and talk to when I was having a rough day. I always felt safe and welcomed in her classroom, and that is how I hope my students feel in my classroom.”
Of Mrs. Peterman, she said: “Mrs. Peterman was my math teacher junior year. She was always so kind and was always there to help when math started to get tough! She was always so supportive and knowledgeable -- she always had great advice.”
When asked about her favorite Methacton memory, Sara couldn’t choose just one. She said playing basketball and softball was a highlight of her life as a student. “I would not trade the experiences these sports gave me for anything! Playing sports and being part of a team taught me so much about working with others and helped me build my leadership skills. My favorite memory […] was going to Wildwood with the basketball team. Every year after Christmas, the team would take a bus down to the shore to play in the Wildwood Basketball Boardwalk Classic. All four years we made such good memories. Win or lose, we always had fun. It wouldn't have been possible if it weren't for our three amazing coaches; Craig Kaminski, Kevin Kaminski, and Kaitlyn McGlynn.”
In the summer of 2018, Sara traveled with fellow classmates to Spain and Portugal. Mr. Ranieri and Mr. Alzamora served as the chaperones and Sara says it was a trip of a lifetime. “[It] was such a fantastic experience. I learned so much about other places and cultures.”
A teenage rite of passage also holds a very special place in Sara's heart and memories from her time as a student. She fondly remembers learning how to drive and the independence and responsibility it brought. "I went to high school with my sister Alyson for two years. [One] of my favorite memories [was] getting to drive her my junior and senior year."
After graduating from Methacton in 2019, Sara pursued a dual degree in Elementary Education and Special Education at West Chester University. Like so many others, her academic journey faced an unexpected twist with the onset of the pandemic. When her coursework was shifted online, she took the opportunity to branch out into another form of education. “During this time, I was able to nanny for a wonderful family and support their daughters through virtual learning while still furthering my education at WCU, virtually. This [caregiving] experience taught me so much […] and gave me real-life experience in navigating teaching.”
Sara believes that Methacton students should take advantage of all the resources and opportunities available to them. “Get involved! You will never regret being a part of a team or club at Methacton. It will help you immensely in your future regardless of what you decide to do.” She also reminds students that they are not alone in this journey. “Know that the teachers are there to help you. They want to see you succeed. Also, ask your school counselor questions! They are so knowledgeable about so many things.”
Sara is currently pursuing a master's in Education. She aims to expand her teaching certification and contribute further to her students' success.
“I have wanted to be a teacher since I was in third grade at Audubon. I am so grateful to be able to return to the place where I spent the majority of my life. I love giving back to the community and the school that helped shape me into who I am today."
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Karen Henry - MHS '87
Posted by Dr. David Zerbe on 12/18/2023 1:00:00 PM“I strongly believe my experience at Methacton has made me who I am today. Being curious, open and always wanting to learn something new every day has literally saved my life.”
Karen Henry says she has a natural gift of fixing things. So when challenges come her way, it’s no surprise that she faces them head-on with passion and authenticity. As a high school student and three-sport athlete, she had to persevere through injuries and work through balancing academics with athletics. Today, a recent ovarian cancer diagnosis has added a new complexity to her story but she remains undeterred in this fight. “I no longer fear cancer, I embrace it. It’s just one of the many individual parts that make me who I am.”
Reflecting on her life as a student, Karen says her coach, Barb Clipsham, taught her many lessons outside of the classroom. “When I struggled academically, she was the first [to get me in line] and make sure that grades came first. Being a good teammate was far more important than being a standout player. She instilled in me the importance of hard work, leadership, mental strength and courage.”
When asked about her favorite Methacton memory, Karen transported back to the 1986 State Championship game for field hockey. “The entire school [was] cheering for us in the stands. I saved a penalty shot with all eyes on me!” After graduation, Karen went on to play Division 1 Field Hockey at Michigan State University and the University of Delaware.
Professionally, Karen has served 23 years in the pharmaceutical industry and currently works as a Pharmaceutical Strategic Alliances Partner at Bristol Myers Squibb. Yet, her proudest accomplishment remains being a mom, being a champion for equality, and embracing her true self. "My daughter, Ella, is a junior now at Methacton, and it makes me proud to see her getting to experience just a small bit about me when I was her age."
Karen's advice to current Methacton students reflects her own philosophy: “Make it your mission to make somebody else’s day better. Live a life of love and purpose. The best version of you is still to come, so always be your true authentic self!”
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Sarah Dolan - MHS '11
Posted by Dr. David Zerbe on 11/20/2023Sarah (Stewart) Dolan is a rising star in the construction industry, currently serving as the Director of Finance at Gorski Engineering in Collegeville, PA. But a little more than a decade ago, Sarah walked the halls of Methacton High School with a passion for both music and sports, and a readiness to go into the world and do great things. She served as president of Orchestra, won the “Coach’s Award” for lacrosse as a freshman, and attended the prestigious HOBY Leadership Seminar in her sophomore year.
When asked about her favorite Methacton memory, Sarah had such an enjoyable experience that she couldn’t just pick one. “All of the extra-curriculars I participated in - orchestra, lacrosse, cross country, key club, honor society. I particularly loved some of the cross country races we ran at local courses, especially when we went up to Lehigh University or Daniel Boone for districts. It was great being outside in the fall -- my favorite season -- with my high school teammates. I also have great memories of Wednesday evening orchestra rehearsals and orchestra trips, namely Boston and Williamsburg.”
MHS Cross Country Running with Nicole Rossi
MHS Lacrosse
One Methacton teacher stands out as a guiding light—Ms. Magann. Sarah fondly remembers the orchestra rehearsals and trips, where Ms. Magann not only nurtured her musical talent but also created a safe space for self-expression. "She let us be creative and fun, but the way she ran her program also taught us responsibility and independence."
Sarah kicked off her post-high school adventure at Penn State University, where she built upon the academic foundation set while attending Methacton. Upon graduation, she dove into the world of public accounting in Washington, D.C. Armed with a CPA, she later navigated the realm of private equity real estate, carving a niche for herself in financial reporting. Now, she's on the path to securing the industry-esteemed CCIFP (Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional) designation.
In her role as the Director of Finance at Gorski Engineering, Sarah plays a pivotal role in running the financial operations of the construction business. Gorski Engineering, a design-build general contractor, recently announced its expansion statewide with a strong focus on public sector projects such as fire stations, community buildings, and schools. Sarah takes pride in the company's recent completion of the Phoenixville Rec Center and Fire Station, two projects that have had a positive impact on the local community.
Beyond her corporate success, Sarah is dedicated to shaping the future of her industry. Her initiative in creating an emerging leaders program at CFMA Philadelphia Chapter is a testament to her commitment to fostering talent. As a nationally-recognized CFMA Rising Star under 40, Sarah is not just making waves; she's creating a ripple effect of positive change.
Outside of the office, Sarah volunteers with Girls on the Run, aligning her passion with a purpose—to empower young girls to build confidence, kindness, and decision-making skills. She also enjoys spending time with those who bring joy to her journey -- her two dogs, cat, and husband— Ivy, Murph, Janie, and Sean.
Sarah & Sean's Wedding in Ireland
Girls On The Run Volunteering
CFMA Chairman's Coin Awards
Reflecting on her journey, Sarah Dolan offers this advice to current Methacton students: "Figure out what you are good at and what makes you happy, and success will come along with those two things." She urges students to think outside the conventional career paths, be selfish in choosing what makes them truly happy, and not succumb to societal expectations. “Working in the construction industry, I see so many successful career paths that don't require a degree. Again, figure out what you are good at and what makes you happy. You won't regret it.”
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Joseph “J.J.” Gambone - MHS '11 & Tom Gambone - MHS '14
Posted by Dr. David Zerbe on 10/30/2023Joseph “J.J.” Gambone and Tom Gambone are two brothers who not only share the bonds of family but also the proud legacy of being Methacton Warriors!
J.J. Gambone
When thinking back on his time as a Methacton High School student, J.J. has fond memories of the friendships he made and is appreciative of the experiences that prepared him for the life he leads today. As an avid sports fan, J.J. participated on the varsity golf team from 2007-2010. He says he truly enjoyed the daily golf practice after school and rooting for the football and baseball teams with his friends. J.J.’s love for golf continues today, as he plays competitively on the U.S. Amateur Tour (formerly known as the Golf Channel Amateur Tour) for fun in his spare time.
When asked which Methacton teacher was the greatest influence, two people came to mind: Jeff Musselman and Gina Fabrizio.
Of Mr. Musselman, J.J. still has a crystal-clear memory of a one-on-one they had after gym class 15 years ago. “Mr. Musselman pulled me aside on the tennis court and spoke to me about being a leader, and when to speak up if necessary. That conversation still resonates with me today. It has shaped me into the man I am today.”
When J.J. speaks about Mrs. Fabrizio, he is reminded of a thoughtful and compassionate individual who continues to be an integral part of his life. “The relationships that she nurtured -- no matter who you were -- she truly CARES about her students.”
After graduating from Methacton, J.J. went on to obtain his B.S. in Finance from West Chester University. After graduating with the Class of 2015, he started his career as a Financial Advisor with Equitable Advisors. Since beginning his professional career, his once-little company has grown into a larger firm Gambone Financial Group. He currently serves as the President and Founder of the firm, in addition to retaining his role as an award-winning financial advisor.
Tom Gambone
Mrs. Fabrizio was also a very influential educator in Tom’s life. He says she was instrumental in helping the brothers navigate their personal and professional lives. Tom had Mrs. Fabrizio for homeroom and first period English class. “She always had a smile, even so early in the morning.”
Throughout Tom’s education, he took 9 years of French. He says his French teachers at Methacton, Mary Phelps and Jill Nickerson, ignited his passion for the French language and customs. “This helped to craft my hunger for learning and understanding different cultures.” Tom still has a strong passion for European culture. Because of this, his favorite hobby is world travel.
After graduating from Methacton, Tom went on to obtain his B.S. in Psychology from West Chester University in 2018. After college graduation, Tom accepted a position as the client liaison and processing coordinator at Gambone Financial Group. He specializes in assisting clients with comprehensive investment and insurance planning.
To current students nearing graduation, J.J. and Tom offer valuable advice – trust your instincts, avoid comparison, and pursue what you love. Their message is clear: "Don't follow the money; follow your passion, and success will follow you."
Today, J.J. and Tom serve the community as proud, local business owners. Gambone Financial Group’s objective is to protect and preserve wealth for families and businesses.
We are immensely proud of J.J. and Tom's achievements and the positive impact they continue to make in our community.
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Dr. Emily (Harris) Ammazzaorsi - MHS '14
Posted by Dr. David Zerbe on 9/21/2023Methacton High School has played an important role in the life of Class of 2014 graduate, Dr. Emily (Harris) Ammazzaorsi. As she approaches the 10-year anniversary of her graduation, Emily reflects on her time as student and how it helped drive her commitment to lifelong learning.
Emily's path to becoming a Physical Therapist was influenced by her Biology teacher, Mr. Del Rossi. She says his class sparked her interest for science. “He was able to make all the topics he taught interesting and [was] able to throw a few jokes in at the same time.”
Outside of the classroom, Emily found success on the softball field. She was a 4-year varsity starter for the softball team and vividly remembers celebrating when they won the PAC-10 championship her senior year. The pursuit of excellence on and off the field earned Emily scholarships for athletics and academics. After graduation, she played Division II softball at the University of the Sciences while pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences. In college play, Emily recorded over 100 career hits while striking out only 12 times over four years.
In 2020, Emily earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy but her quest for knowledge didn’t end there. She further enhanced her expertise by attending the gold level of Vestibular training in Emory, Georgia and she’s currently working to obtain her MBA in Organizational Management from Eastern University.
At Grand View Health, Emily treats orthopedic cases and specializes in concussion and vestibular rehabilitation. She says her own experiences as an athlete made her particularly adept at rehabilitating athletes with throwing-related injuries.
When she’s not at work or studying, Emily enjoys hiking and spending time down the shore with her spouse and rescued Corgi.
Emily remembers what it was like to be a high school student in an ever-evolving world. She shared simple yet profound advice for current Methacton students: "Don't stress the small things, everything will work out."
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Chris Drummond - MHS '86
Posted by Methacton School District on 5/25/2023After graduating from Ursinus College with a degree in Economics and Business Administration, Chris returned to the family business, eager to help it grow. He threw himself into the work. His dedication and expertise were soon recognized. He was honored as PA Florist of the Year, later served as president of the Pennsylvania Floral Industry Association, and was named a member of both the American Academy of Floriculture and Professional Floral Communicators International.
As he thought back on his Methacton years, Chris couldn't help but smile. His favorite memory was sitting on the hill with his friends, watching the baseball and soccer games. It was a time of camaraderie and relaxation, and a welcome break from the stresses of school and work.
But it was the influence of one teacher who really helped to shape Chris. Mr. Constable had demanded the best from his students, and pushed them to go above and beyond. He had taught Chris to listen more than he spoke, to continually learn, and to see things from multiple perspectives. “I remember him often saying things like, ‘This is good, but you’re better than this. Take another look, revise and bring the final version to me.’” It was a lesson that has served Chris well in his personal and professional life.
When asked his advice for current Methacton students, Chris offered this: “[Y]ou are responsible for your success. So be positive and uncover your hidden talents. Know that every obstacle is actually a new opportunity. ‘I can...’ should be repeated in your head frequently. Surround yourself with a group of peers who support, encourage and challenge you, then stretch the limits of your mind and body.”
As he pondered his legacy, Chris knows that he has had much to be proud of. He has helped build a successful family business, he and his wife, Robin, have raised four children who are all Methacton graduates, and he’s served as a leader in the floral industry.
And as he looks forward to the future, Chris knows that he has the skills, the determination, and the Methacton spirit to tackle whatever comes his way.
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Joe Michetti - MHS '10
Posted by Methacton School District on 4/28/2023We recognize alumni, but it is always an AWESOME opportunity to recognize an alum who has decided on a career path in public education. Hence, we are proud to feature 2010 Methacton High School graduate and current West Chester Area School District School Counselor - Joe Michetti.
Following graduation from Methacton High School, Joe attended Bloomsburg University and found himself teaching middle school history at Collegium Charter School in Exton, PA. During his time at Collegium, he shares that he was able to find his professional path. “While I greatly enjoyed teaching, I wanted to further my impact and focus on the mental health of students.”
With that ambition, Joe began working towards earning his master’s degree in school counseling at West Chester University (Yeah – the Golden Rams). He earned his master’s degree in May 2021, which led him to his current position as a school counselor at West Chester East High School. Some of his roles include coordinating scholarship offerings, serving as an equity advocate for East High School, serving as an advisor for the Black Student Union, and coaching the Fugett Middle School football team. “I am so proud to work alongside such amazing students and colleagues that help keep me motivated and determined.”When Joe was asked about his favorite Methacton memory, he shared that it was football training camp going into his sophomore year. “We had a fun group of players who bonded really well. We were on a mission to break a lengthy losing streak and won our first game of the season.”
In terms of high school accomplishments, Joe says that earning playing time on the varsity team as a sophomore was a big deal for him. Then, he got injured. While this was a huge setback for Joe, the life-changing event offered him a silver lining. “I was not a very motivated student in high school but that experience allowed me to get to where I am today and experience failure. That failure helped me understand myself and what I needed to do to get better. I never let it define me.
When asked about influences, Joe said he could name several. However, Mr. Brad Dale was the first who came to mind. “Mr. Dale was my 3rd grade teacher at Woodland. He was the first teacher I had that I felt believed in me and helped me love school.” Joe also had a profound appreciation for Mr. Fred Stoudt at Arcola. “[He] was another teacher who inspired me to be myself even if that means being goofy and loud.” Lastly, Joe shares that Mr. Eric Ranieri was a motivational force. “ Mr. Ranieri was someone I looked up to growing up as he was my neighbor for most of my childhood. I remember watching him push his car up the street, positioned on a steep hill, for fun as a workout and thinking, ‘This guy is a little crazy!’”
Joe recommends students lean into all of the positive experiences that high school life offers. "Try as many things as possible to find what you are good at and go for it! Stop comparing yourself to everybody else. The hardest thing at your age is to be you and to not let other people's voices into your head.”
Joe currently lives in Phoenixville with his girlfriend, Jen, his dog, Lilly, and cat, Cheche. When he’s not at work, he loves going for walks into town and hanging out with his sister, Monica, her husband, Ryan, and their children, Tyler and Talia. He also enjoys visits with his brother Bob, and his wife, Laura, and their children, Marco and Avelina. Although Joe is no longer a resident in the district, he still feels closely connected to the community. “While I now live a small ways away from Methacton, it will always have a special place in my heart!”
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Robert Childress - MHS '65
Posted by Methacton School District on 3/16/2023Robert Childress, a Methacton High School alumnus from the Class of 1965, was a remarkable student who excelled in multiple sports including baseball, wrestling, and football.
Sadly, his promising future was cut short. Robert was killed on July 26, 1968 while serving our country during the Vietnam War.
But his story doesn’t end here. Robert’s courageous sacrifice in defense of our freedoms has made him an American hero, forever remembered and honored.
Pictured (L-R): Dick Custer, Chip Kreiger, Denis Rees, Mary Ethel Migan, Joe Natalini, Spike Christman, and Bob Jones.
Today, we have the opportunity to hear from those who knew Robert and to learn more about his remarkable life and legacy.
MARY ETHEL MIGAN – HIGH SCHOOL SWEETHEART
Bob and I were couple when he was drafted and later killed.
I remember at his funeral, I couldn't bring myself to go up to the front with the family, and his dad came and got me from the back and had me come to the front with the family. I will never forget that. His dad was a very nice man. Bob's mom introduced me to people as her daughter-in-law, and that meant so much to me.
He was the love of my life and is still the love of my life today.
SPIKE CHRISTMAN - CHILDHOOD FRIEND & TEAMMATE
I first met Bobby when we were about 12 years old. Bobby lived on Hollywood Avenue, and I lived on Clearfield. Now I want to tell you, I was a coach at North Penn for 35 years coaching high school football, and I have been around many athletes, and he was maybe one of two of the best I have ever seen. Bobby had an arm like a flat-out cannon. He was an excellent, excellent baseball player. He was not only a great baseball player but a great wrestler also. He played on the football team as well. He was the whole package. He had balance, strength, and ability, just the perfect athlete.
Again, he was just a special athlete and a special person, and myself being around athletes my whole life…well, I just wonder what he would have become if he wasn’t killed.
Our childhood was great. As soon as you came out of your house back then, you had an automatic baseball team with all the other neighbors. There were kids everywhere. We played all day until our parents called us back in to eat.
We used to hang out at the local bowling alley on Ridge Pike. One time I showed up, and I see Bobby outside the bowling alley, shimmying up the column outside backwards. You can just imagine the strength it takes to do that.
Bobby was very smart and very fluent in German. It was just a special time at Methacton. Our athletics was one of the things that put Methacton on the map.
The draft was something that was just a part of growing up. We all knew about it. You just never heard or felt the pain of losing a friend who was killed in Vietnam. You always heard of them being drafted, but not killed.
The funeral was like something I had never seen before in my life. There was the motorcade of course, but all of South Trooper turned out. Roads were closed. Just nothing I have ever seen in my life.
CHIP KREIGER - CHILDHOOD FRIEND & TEAMMATE
So, I lived on Oakdale Avenue and Bobby lived on Hollywood Avenue. Well, the first thing I can say is that no one ever threw a baseball harder than he did. He was an excellent all-around athlete but an amazing baseball player. Once, I saw him hit the hardest hit baseball ever. The player on the other team caught the ball, but that’s because the ball got to the player before he even knew the ball was coming. He just didn’t even see it coming to him. Bobby just looked at him and couldn’t believe he caught it. He just turned and walked back to the bench with a small grin on his face and a look on his face thinking to himself, ‘How did he catch that ball.’ It was the hardest ball I have ever seen hit. Bobby could have been a starting pitcher, but he was so afraid he was going to hit someone. I don’t know if you know it, but he was a great wrestler too. I think he was undefeated one year in wrestling and went to the finals I believe.
I think of him often. I often wonder where he would be today after going to LA if he wasn’t drafted and sent to Vietnam.
JOE NATALINI - CHILDHOOD FRIEND AND TEAMMATE
Well, I played baseball with Bobby for years. We played for the Perkiomen Twilight League. It was a league for years 18 and above. I said to our coach and manager, ‘You really have to see this kid play’. They started warming up and then Bobby was told to go full speed ahead and show what he really had. Well, he showed what he had, and after one hit and throw, the coach said, ‘Are you kidding me? Are you kidding me?’ I mean his throw from 3rd base to 1st was like a rocket. Soon after that, scouts were coming out, and the rest is history…he was off with the LA Dodgers and went to spring training.
What I would say about Bobby is that he was a ‘Diamond in Disguise’. Bob was a person and a player who didn’t know just how good he was. He just didn’t know.
I’m just getting emotional just thinking about it right now. I remember the day he was killed like it was yesterday. I learned he was killed while I was at working at McCoy’s in Norristown. A co-worker of mine went home for lunch, and came back and said: "You won’t believe it, someone from Methacton was killed in Vietnam." We went down the list of guys who we knew were over there and we got to Bobby’s name, and my co-worker said yes, Childress, that’s him. I was in just shock.
JIM COSTELLO - CHILDHOOD FRIEND & TEAMMATE
Bobby was a great athlete. What was so amazing about Bobby was that he read the actual books on wrestling and learned how to do different holds and techniques. He showed his coach, and his coach had him demonstrate to all of us other wrestlers. He taught us the holds and maneuvers, not the coach. The coach was so impressed with him.
Bobby and I climbed the gym rope backwards. I hope you can picture what that looked like. Our heads were towards the floor and our feet were toward the ceiling. When we got to the top we also used the ceiling beam to cross over to the other rope to come back down. He was really strong.
Bobby was just a great guy. He was a quiet guy. Great athlete. He would have been great at whatever he did. He was always fun. Never unhappy, always smiling. This is just so unfair what happened to him.
DENIS REES - CHILDHOOD FRIEND
We were all neighbors on Hollywood Avenue. What I can say about Bobby is that he was a natural athlete. He was the whole package. He had the leadership qualities, the athleticism, and the intelligence. We lived in a time when all of the houses on the street were little but there could be 5-6 kids to a house. Every day was a day to just go outside and play and you instantly had a full team of kids to put together a game. Sports were so important to us all growing up.
It was a time when we would come out and play all day and wait for our parents to call us back in for lunch or dinner or whatever. It was a great childhood. We had so many kids on that street, so we always had something to do and someone to do it with.
LINDA HOOD - CLASSMATE & FRIEND
Well first, what I can say is that Bobby was an extremely great athlete, an extremely great athlete! Bobby was a very pleasant guy. A very quiet guy. He always had the biggest smile. Bobby… how can I put this; he was just a genuinely nice person. A good man.
One memory that I have is that he loved The Rolling Stones. Whenever he was in the car, he would look for them on the radio. He loved listening to them.
I was so happy for him when he went to LA. It is just not that easy to get into the majors you know. I think of him frequently.
I remember the day he was killed like it was yesterday. I remember my husband at the time, coming home and telling me that Bobby was killed. We were just devastated, just devastated. It was such a shame, you know?
BOBBY JONES - CHILDHOOD FRIEND & TEAMMATE
I played baseball with Bobby in Little League, the Kneehigh League, for Methacton High School, and the Perkiomen Twilight League for guys 18 and above. I pitched and played short stop for Methacton and Bobby played third base. Now, I was a Senior and Bobby was a Junior, me graduating in 1964 and he 1965. After high school, Art Bustard the coach/manager of the Perkiomen Twilight League, recruited Bobby to come and play for the team. If I recall correctly, Bobby played for the Perkiomen Twilight League for about 6 months until he was drafted by the LA Dodgers.
Bobby was a great teammate. He had all the tools you needed. He could hit, run, throw, and he had the God-given ability to get to the Major Leagues. If I recall, he was an excellent wrestler.
Bobby was a quiet guy and a very nice guy. He was an excellent athlete. He was extremely strong. Nothing really seemed to bother him. He was just a happy-go-lucky, nonchalant type of guy. He was a good wholesome individual. Guys like Bobby who are that good of an athlete tend to not know just how good they really are, and I don’t know if he knew he was that good.
I had heard Bobby was killed through the grapevine, and it was a shock. A shame. We will never know how things would have turned out if he had gotten the chance to play in the Major Leagues.
DICK CUSTER - CHILDHOOD FRIEND
Living across the street from Bobby since he was 3 years old built a friendship for me that lasts a lifetime. Bobby, his brother Bruce, and Den were the closest thing to brothers that I had over the years growing up. With an average of 4-5 kids in almost every house on a block of over 50 houses his childhood always had the capacity to fill the field at the end of the block for a baseball or football game. Bobby’s natural skills for the games we played were amazing. We looked up to him as a role model.
The last time I talked with Bobby, we were sitting under a tree in my front yard after he returned from advanced infantry training two days before he was to report back for a flight to Vietnam. He wanted me to talk him out of going back. I think he knew it would be a one-way trip. That was the last time I saw him. We got the word of his death while we were in Army Bootcamp. It was a scary time for young men.
Bobby would probably be embarrassed with this recognition. Hopefully, this spotlight will serve as inspiration for the kids that play sports and study at Methacton to achieve beyond what they thought possible. I can’t speak for him, but I would want [the] legacy of his short life to be one of humility, achievement, and most of all, sacrifice for our community and nation as we live our free way of life. Yes, some gave all…
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Alexa Hoover - MHS '14
Posted by Methacton School District on 2/16/2023 4:00:00 PMAlexa Hoover (now Conway) is a 2014 graduate of Methacton High School. Having amassed an impressive academic and athletic career at Methacton that included being a 4-year varsity starter, 2013 team captain, and 2013 Times Herald Player of the Year with 96 career goals and 24 career assists, Alexa was and always will be "A True Warrior.”
Her high school academic and athletic prowess placed her on a path of future success at the University of Pennsylvania. As a member of the Penn Field Hockey team, she earned many achievements. She was named the 2014 Ivy League Rookie of the Year, named 2nd Team All-American twice, and set six Penn School Records (68 Career Goals, 163 Career Points, 27 Single Season Goals, 63 Single Season Points, 5 Single Game Goals, 10 Single Game Points).
Alexa was the first athlete in Penn Field Hockey history to be a four-time First-Team All-Ivy Honoree. She was 4th in the Ivy League Field Hockey record book for career goals, career points, single season goals, and single season points, and 15th in the NCAA Field Hockey record book for goals per game and points per game. She also received Penn’s nomination for NCAA Woman of the Year in 2018. Alexa is destined to be inducted into the Penn Athletics Hall of Fame.
Alexa’s athletic journey also took her on several international tours with the US Women’s Indoor National Field Hockey Team from 2012-2014. Her team won a bronze medal at the 2014 Indoor Pan-American Cup in Montevideo, Uruguay.
Alexa is now serving in her second season as the Division 1 Field Hockey Coach at Saint Joseph's University. Prior to that she had served as Director of Operations at Penn and as an Assistant Coach at La Salle University.
During her time at Saint Joe’s, Alexa led the Hawks to back-to-back seasons as Atlantic 10 Field Hockey Champions. In addition, the team reached their highest national rankings in program history and made their first ever NCAA Elite 8 appearance.
Looking back on her experience at Methacton, Alexa shared that she always loved learning. While reserved early on in her high school career, she credits English teacher Michael Chapin as someone who helped shift her mindset. “He encouraged me to speak up in class, ask for help, and before I knew it, I was doing the same in my all my other classes. You can only get so far in school doing things on your own and his influence laid the groundwork that enabled me to further my academic growth, eventually graduating from an Ivy League university.”
Alexa says one of her fondest Methacton memories was watching her little sister’s field hockey successes. In her sister Olivia’s senior year, the Field Hockey team went 20-0 and won the PAC 10 Championship.
When asked what advice she would have for current students: “For anyone involved in group activities, whether it’s sports, music, theater, etcetera. When things get tough, remember why you started in the first place. You can choose to let obstacles set you back or you can use it to fuel your fire. Use your love for what you do to keep you moving forward, even if the steps are small. Small steps are still steps.”
On a personal note, Alexa and her husband Jack Conway wed on December 30, 2022. While Jack currently serves in the Army and recently returned from a deployment in the Middle East for the wedding, the couple lives locally and looks forward to a bright future together.
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David Cemini - MHS '83
Posted by Methacton School District on 1/19/2023 8:00:00 AMDavid Cemini, a 1983 graduate of Methacton High School, comes from a family with strong Methacton roots. His mother was in the first graduating class. David’s wife Carol is a 1985 graduate of Methacton and they are proud parents to three children who are also Methacton graduates. He even has a grandson attending elementary school in Methacton.
While David and his family are forever Methacton Warriors, he has also been a significant force in our community that goes beyond the school. David is recognized as one of the area’s foremost youth program leaders through his work with the Boy Scouts of America. David has been laser focused on character development and values-based leadership training for youth for more than 12 years. He recalls getting involved when his son became a scout and later took on a leadership role within the organization.
“When they needed a leader, I stepped in. I served as an assistant Scoutmaster from 2010-11, and I’m currently serving as Scoutmaster of Scout Troop 313 of Audubon.”
(Photo credit: Lower Providence Township, 2019)
David finds his work as a mentor and positive role model fulfilling. “I enjoy helping the scouts achieve their goals.” He is credited with helping 44 scouts reach the highest rank in scouting, Eagle Scout! In 2019, David was named Volunteer of the Year by Lower Providence Township. The award recognizes the inspiring efforts of an individual who continually gives of their time to support the Lower Providence community.
Thinking back on his time as a student, David shares that one of his fondest Methacton memories was his time in Band. He played saxophone and served as band manager in his senior year. “Band kept me in school. It was something I enjoyed and it gave me a social life. There were 130 students in band at the time and it was a year round program so we spent a lot of time together.”
David also received the John Philip Sousa award -- the highest honor in a high school band – which recognizes students with superior musicianship and outstanding dedication. He cited Jeffrey Twiford, teacher and Band Director, and Principal Aldo Benoni as his greatest influences because of the respect they showed to students. “They both treated you as an adult and not as a kid. When Mr. Benoni would see me in the hallway, he would always address me by name and shake my hand. He would talk to you like a regular person.”
Upon graduation, David recalled his participation in a time-honored tradition. “I was selected to sign the honor book. I’m not sure why I was picked to do this, but it’s a lasting memory from my time at Methacton.”
Today, David’s career in construction has led him to become a senior Project Manager for Gen3 Construction. He injects this simple, but direct advice into all that he does – “Work hard and play hard. You are only going to get out of life what you put into it. Do what you have to do to finish your day so tomorrow is not as difficult.”