VIENNA — The final weeks of the Basketball season at Vienna High School brought a celebration of the senior class, showcasing achievements across cheer, band and athletics. Each senior left a lasting mark on their teams and programs, creating memories that will carry long after graduation.

Cheer

Aleska Baker, daughter of Laurel and David Baker, capped her senior year with memorable experiences in cheer. She enjoyed performing stunts and participating in the mini cheer camp, moments that stood out as highlights of her time with the team. Baker’s approach to life and leadership emphasized living fully, balancing fun with dedication and she plans to continue her education at East Central College in the Health Professions Nursing program next fall.

Grace Miller, daughter of Sharon and Chad Miller, also brought her enthusiasm and leadership to cheer during her final season. She found joy in inspiring younger students at mini cheer camp and treasured sharing her last season with her best friend Josalin Sharpe. Miller’s senior year was marked by cherishing memories and making the most of every opportunity. Following graduation, she plans to attend Jewell College to study Elementary Education while joining the college cheer program.

Band

Thomas Douglas, son of Tonya Party, concluded six years in the band program, a tenure highlighted by his selection to all-district band. His most memorable moments included conference performances and interactions with his peers. Douglas demonstrated determination, perseverance and a commitment to excellence throughout his band career and he intends to pursue music as a professional career after graduation.

Boys Basketball

Eli Crum, son of Jessica and Jason Crum, remembered the fun of connecting with teammates off the court, including lighthearted moments such as waving to Coach Harker from the interstate. Crum encouraged underclassmen to enjoy their time on the team and plans to attend the University of Northwestern Ohio to pursue studies in High Performance Technology.

Dylan Long, son of David and Julie Long, reflected on memorable trips and competitions with his team, including the Higbee Shootout and casual team outings to Taco Bell in Eastland. Long’s approach emphasized fun and team camaraderie, and he plans to continue his education at State Tech, focusing on HVAC studies.

Colton Lee Wiles, son of Curtis and Rachel Wiles, highlighted a standout competitive moment, defeating Prairie Home during their homecoming night. Wiles valued discipline and focus during practice, knowing that consistent effort paid off on the court, and that if you don’t focus, coach Harker will make you run. After graduation, he intends to enter the workforce and apply the lessons learned through athletics to his career.

Jude Stricklan, son of Jeff and Jessica Stricklan, treasured team bonding during trips such as the overnight stay in Higbee. Stricklan encouraged younger teammates to make the most of their high school experience, appreciating both the games and the friendships formed along the way. He plans to attend Linn State Technical College’s Electrical Distribution Program.

Jayce Bertoni, son of Josh Bertoni and Amanda Parmeley, found his favorite memory in summer competitions, including the Higbee Shootout. He emphasized the importance of enjoying the process, working hard, and not taking opportunities for granted. Bertoni plans to pursue an apprenticeship through Capital Academy following graduation.

Girls Basketball

Aubrey Schwartze, daughter of Kevin and Kelly Schwartze, achievements speak volumes. A four-year varsity athlete, she earned postseason honors as a 2x All-District, 3x All-Media District, and 3x All-Conference player. She is the all-time leading rebounder in VHS girls basketball history with more than 1,500 rebounds and has joined the 1,000-point club for the program. As the Lady Eagles only senior, her favorite memory was her entire senior year because this year has been the most fun she has have ever had playing basketball. She also said one of her favorite team traditions was playing ‘spoons’ with her teammates. Schwartze advice to her underclassmen is to never wish anything away because four years go by faster than you think. Schwartze plans to attend the University of Central Missouri to study Radiologic Technology in the fall.

Across cheer, band, and athletics, these seniors exemplified leadership, dedication and school spirit. Each senior contributed to their programs in unique ways, leaving a lasting legacy at Vienna High School and setting the stage for the next generation of students to follow in their footsteps.