South Haven News

By Claire Minor

On Oct. 7, 2025, the South Haven Lady Cardinal volleyball team played against the Caldwell Bluejays and the Argonia Red Raiders. Unfortunately, South Haven lost both games, but the crowd was going wild with their crazy good plays.

Oct. 7, 2025, was also Senior Night for the Lady Cardinals and the band. Just a little reminder, Senior Night is a chance for seniors involved in athletics and the band to have their academic, athletic, and personal achievements recognized, mainly focusing on their goals and plans for the future. The seniors mentioned this year were Adele Helsel, Addison Heater, Tennyson Dark, Arallia Wartick, Gabe Moncivais, and Danica Browning.

ABOUT OUR CARDINAL SENIORS:

Danica Browning:

They begin the night by honoring Danica Browning, daughter of Mazie and Jeff Browning.

Danica is celebrating her eighth year in the band. One favorite memory is from the State Fair, when it poured rain — but the band still earned a top rating of 1. After graduation, Danica plans to attend either Cowley College or Oklahoma State University. Her advice to younger bandmates is: “Just have fun, because it goes by faster than you think.” She gives special thanks to her parents for always showing up, and to Ms. Coon, for believing in her and pushing her to be her best.

Tennyson Dark:

Next is senior Tennyson Dark, escorted by her parents, Shannon and Eric Dark.

Tennyson has played volleyball for over eight years. A favorite memory from this season was celebrating a point with her team’s signature dance. She plans to attend Cowley College and pursue a career in engineering. Tennyson appreciates the advice from Coach Jenny about the power of self-talk, and is grateful to Mrs. Heater for her constant support and encouragement. She thanks her coaches, her grandparents, and her parents for always being there when they can.

Addison Heater:

Let’s recognize Addison Heater, escorted by her parents, Mike and Rheann Heater.

Addison has played volleyball for 10 years and plans to attend college after graduation — hopefully! Her favorite advice is: “You are your worst critic, but also your best personal coach. You know what you need to improve, so focus on it and get it done.” She thanks her entire team for their hard work, great attitudes, and the progress they’ve made. No matter the record, this has been a season to be proud of.

Adele Helsel:

Up next is Adele Helsel, daughter of Allan and Latrice Helsel, escorted tonight by David Smith and Latrice Helsel. Adele has played volleyball for 7 years. She plans to attend Cowley College, then transfer to Arizona State University to study Social and Behavioral Sciences. A quote that’s stayed with her comes from Coach Mike Leach: “Treat a person as he is, and he will remain as he is. Treat him as he could be, and he will become what he should be.” Adele thanks Jenny Cully, Mike and Rheann Heater, her family, and especially God.

Gabe Moncivais:

Joining us now is Gabe Moncivais, escorted by his parents, Stephanie and Walter Moncivais. Gabe is a student leader who has served as President of the Native American Student Association for four years. He’s also active in Student Council, Math Relays, Choir, and Band. One of Gabe’s favorite memories is from a STUCO convention — when he surprised everyone by eating an entire pizza… and then some! He plans to attend Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence, Kansas, to pursue a career in architecture. His advice: “If you want to take care of others, you gotta take care of yourself first. If you don’t respect yourself, how will you respect others?”

Arallia Wartick:

Closing out tonight’s celebration is Arallai Wartick, daughter of John and Elise Wartick. Arallai has played volleyball for 7 years. A standout moment came during a game at Caldwell, when she shouted, “Not in my house!” after a kill — a moment that still echoes her competitive spirit. She plans to attend cosmetology school after graduation. Her advice: “Build good relationships with your teammates, take accountability, and learn with each other.” She thanks all the parents who support the team — whether by making food, showing up to cheer, or just being there when it counts.

REMINDER: If you would like to stay up-to-date with the events that South Haven Schools are involved with, check out USD509 South Haven on Facebook/Instagram or https://www.usd509.org/!