CAL Baseball Ranked 12th in the State

The new Kentucky coaches poll ranks CAL Baseball 12th in the state.

The 2012 Regular Season Poll released April 12, 2012 is as follows:

1.  Male

2.  Lexington Catholic

3.  St. Xavier

4.  Bryan Station

5.  Eastern

6.  Bowling Green

7.  Madison Central

8.  Central Hardin

9.  Danville

10.  Apollo

11.  Lafayette

12.  Christian Academy

13.  Tates Creek

14.  PRP

15.  Lone Oak

16.  Harrison Co.

17.  Ballard

18.  Henderson Co.

19.  West Jessamine

20.  Glasgow

21.  Trinity

22.  Woodford Co.

23.  Covington Catholic

24.  Bullitt East

25.  Henry Co.

CAL Baseball Game Broadcasts Available on iHigh.com

Broadcasts of CAL baseball games are available during spring break live on iHigh.com from Dodgertown, in Vero Beach, Florida

Monday, April 9- CAL vs. Manchester Township, NJ 1:00 PM
Tuesday, April 10- CAL vs. Grove City, OH 1:00 PM
Thursday, April 12- CAL vs. St. Dominic, NY 7:00 PM

CAL would like to thank the following sponsors for making these broadcasts possible:

  • First Capital Bank of Kentucky
  • Scott Dibble State Farm Insurance
  • Great Harvest
  • Warren’s Barber Shop and Emporium
  • Beef O’Bradys
  • Blincoe & Shutt Aesthetic Family Denistry 
  • Eberle Orthodontics

To listen to the CAL Baseball games: go towww.ihigh.com/caland click on the game 

Harry Greschel Invitational Produces State Leading Marks

CAL hosted the 5th annual Harry Greschel Invitational, one of the largest track meets in the state.  CAL’s Hannah Herd won the elite 5K held the evening before the meet, awarding her the 11th fastest time in the country for high school runners.  The highly competitive invitational produced state leading marks in 6 girls’ events and 7 boys’ events.

Twenty four of the toughest squads in Kentucky came to the campus for the meet.The competitive weekend began with the KYtrackXC.com 5K Showdown onFriday,where national level marks were turned in by the elite runners.

A 5000 meter track competition was included in the meet in 2011, but by picking up a race sponsor the website KYtrackXC.com, the race attracted a stellar field. Christian Academy had two runners invited to participate in the field – freshman Hannah Herd and senior Jenna Gipperich. With great support from the home crowd, Hannah stayed in the lead pack of six runners during the early portion of the race.At 4000 meters, Butler’s Rose Jolly tried to break away, pulling Hannah and Erin Edmundson of North Oldham away from the pack. With 500 meters to go, Edmundsonmade a bid to take the race, but could not shake Hannah. Hannah waited until the final homestretch to seize the lead and powered away with agreat kick to win by 1.5 seconds.Her time of 19:24.73 is currently the 11th fastest time in the country for high school runners! Recent Mercer signee Jenna ran a very well paced race and was rewarded with a PR of 20:48.80. It was an incredible atmosphere, but unfortunately the weather postponed the boys race until Saturday morning at 8 AM, before the rest of the invitational. The early risers were rewarded with the opportunity to see some of the best high school competition in the country, headed by local runners – junior Jacob Thomson of Holy Cross and sophomore Patrick Gregory of Butler. The pair both broke the 15:00 barrier, to put themselves on top of the national list for 5000 meters. Thomson won the race with an outstanding time of 14:49, to Gregory’s 14:57. 6 of the 10 fastest times in the country so far this season, were recorded in the race. It was an incredible way to start the Harry Greschel Invitational.

The Manual girls and St. X boys, won the team competitions. The Lady Centurions finished a solid 11th place in the team standings, which could have been higher, but the elite 5K was a non-scored event toward team scores. The boys fought hard to finish 17th, among some of the toughest track & field teams in the state. Relays led the way for the girls,as they scored in 3 of the 4 relays.After running grueling 5K’s the previous evening, Hannah & Jenna bounced back to run the 4×800 relay. They were joined by Alli Lawson and Sarah Burnett, to runa seasons best 10:27 and place 4th. Kenzie Dannelly, Chalisa Helm and Sophie Schulz teamed upwith Nicole Athanasakes (4×200) & Kate Joss (4×100), to bring home a pair of 5th place finishes. Chalisa added a third 5th for the day in the 100 meter.Tessa Sipe placed in both hurdle events, while Lilli Popovich threw a personal best 77′ 1″to place in the discus.The boys team earned all their points in the pole vault, with Drew Shadburne placing 4th and Steven Rowland 6th. Earlier in the week, Drew broke the school record in the pole vault, by clearing a height of 10′ 7 1/2″.

As well as the team performed in the competition, the real opportunity to be a light for Jesus, was in hosting the event. Many of the coaches,athletes and fans, expressed great appreciation for the well run event.It took the effort of all those associated with the program and the great support of the school, to pull off a meet that has grown to approximately 1200 athletes. The individual Christian Academy athletes,each have been assigned participating schools for which to pray for the remainder of the season. Also, many of the teams brought shoes to donate for Edge Outreach. Thanks to all who helped!

Conner Slade Signs with Cincinnati Christian University

Conner Slade, a senior at Christian Academy of Louisville, signed a letter of intent on Monday, March 5, to play golf at Cincinnati Christian University (CCU) next year.
Slade has played golf since middle school at CAL and placed 29th out of 156 competitors at this year’s KY State Tournament. In addition, Slade has won tournaments with the Musselman Dunn Summer Golf Tour and Pepsi Golf Tour.

“This is CCU’s fifth year having a golf team. We have quality players and a competitive team. Conner is a fine gentleman and we are happy to have him join us,” said Jack Schlueter, head golf coach at CCU. Schlueter attended the signing with two CCU golfers and Quentin Davis from the admissions department.

CAL golf coach, Scott Duncan, said, “It has been an absolute joy to work with Conner. He’s a great golfer and can hit it a mile, however, he is a better person than he is a golfer. You have a winner in Conner Slade. I am so thankful for the journey I’ve had with him and his family.”

Slade also made official visits to Transylvania University and Georgetown University. Conner chose CCU because he wants to pursue God’s calling into ministry.

“It’s sad to see Conner’s time here at CAL come to an end, but we are joyful for this next phase. This has been a breakout year for Conner in his spiritual walk and we are so grateful for that. I want to thank his teachers here at CAL for their influence. I am humbly proud to be his dad,” said Bryan Slade.

Slade thanked his parents, Bryan and Candyce Slade for their support, as well as his friends, Coach Duncan, and his teammates. He thanked Coach Schlueter for helping in his decision to play golf at CCU. Conner is excited to learn more about the Bible and major in Youth Ministry.

CAL’s Jenna Gipperich Signs with Mercer University

Senior Christian Academy of Louisville athlete, Jenna Gipperich, signed a letter of intent to run Cross Country at Mercer University next year.

Despite Gipperich having run cross country at CAL for only one season, her parents and coaches saw natural talent and potential from the beginning.

CAL’s current cross country coach, Lowery Stallings, said, “Jenna has a deep desire to improve and has tremendous potential as a runner. It has been a pleasure working with her.”
Assistant coach Derrick Dixon added, “Jenna is one of the friendliest people you’ll meet. She always has a big smile and is pleasant.”

Addressing her peers and teammates at the signing, Gipperich thanked her teachers, coaches, and her parents, Connie and Chuck Gipperich for their support.

“Coach Stallings and Dixon are the best coaches. They put me through some of the most physical pain I’ve ever experienced but it has made me better,” said Gipperich.

“Running is her niche. Jenna loves to run and we are so thankful for the training she has received from her coaches,” said Mrs. Gipperich.

Gipperich chose Mercer University because she liked the cross country program and already knows several of her future teammates. Jenna is eager for this next chapter in her life and looks forward to running as a Mercer Bear next fall.

New Head Boys’ Tennis Coach Announced

February 29, 2012—Christian Academy of Louisville (CAL) has named Nathan Goodman
as the new head coach for the Centurion boys tennis team.

Originally from California, Goodman relocated to Louisville to attend The Southern Baptist Theological
Seminary where he graduated with a Masters in Divinity in 2010. Goodman played competitive
Southern Cal junior tennis, has competed in national tournaments, and was an All-American at Azusa
Pacific University. He is currently a teaching pro at Louisville Indoor Racquet Club.

“We are excited to add Coach Goodman to our head coaching ranks. His prior experience as a college
player, a high school coach, and teaching pro will challenge our students’ athletic skills and competitive
edge. Coach Goodman will be a great example for our young men to grow spiritually,” said Darin Long,
Director of Athletics at CAL.

Goodman has coached all over Southern California, ranging from tennis academies, high school teams,
resorts, and tennis outreach ministries. Goodman has also helped coach CAL summer tennis camps.

“I get to teach and coach all the time, but I’m looking forward to doing it in a Christian environment. I
want to push each player to be the best they can be. I also want them to better understand what it
means to be a part of a team that is competitive but also glorifies God in the process,” Goodman said.

Having lost most of the varsity starters, including Brett Johnson, singles state semifinalist, and Logan
Knott who doubled with Jordan Knott as Sweet 16 state finalists, Goodman recognizes that this
upcoming season may be tough.

“I want our guys to work hard and be competitive,” said Goodman. “Our goal will be to win matches
and have a great time doing it. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work at CAL and I hope to be an
encouragement to my players not just in tennis, but in life.”

Todd Hammond, former head tennis coach for the Centurions, is stepping down to assistant coach due
to a change in career opportunities.

“We are saddened that Coach Hammond has to step down, but we are blessed that he will still be able
to remain as an assistant coach helping lead our team,” said Long.

Intramural Spring Sports Registration

Dear Christian Academy Families:

We are blessed to be able to offer English Station, Rock Creek, and Southwest students an intramural athletic program for 2nd –5thgrades. This is possible because of the level of participation by students and the high involvement of parent volunteers. There are many benefits in being involved in athletics including good health, social interaction, self-confidence, and personal accomplishment. Our goal is to always be Christ honoring while learning the sport and competing.

*Pricing includes uniforms, gym rental, referee fees, balls, equipment, trophies, etc.

To participate in the intramural program the forms and fees must be completed online by Friday, March 24th.

Please follow the instructions below for your registration:

  • Click here to register. 
  • Click Sign In
  • Enter the user name and password you created when you previously re-enrolled or confirmed your student. (If you do not remember your user name or password, click Forgot User Name/Password? An e-mail will be generated so that you may reset your password. After doing so, you will need to Sign Out, close your browser, and begin step 1 again to be linked to the winter sports registration. 
  • Click Students on the menu at the left. 
  • Complete the “Spring Intramural Sports Form” for all students interested in playing a spring intramural sport before paying the fee(s). 
  • Click the Start link for the”Spring Intramural Sports Fee”. (You will be able to make payment for all students at the same time.) 

The online registration process has been designed to be quick and easy. If you have any problems or questions please call the Athletic Office at 502-244-3225.

God Bless!

Kevin Bowers
Assistant Athletic Director
Christian Academy of Louisville
English Station, Rock Creek, Southwest

Spring Athletic Registration Available Online

Spring athletic registrations and fees are now available online.  Please read all instructions below prior to beginning the registration process.   If you have any questions or problems, please call the Christian Academy Athletic Office at 502-244-3225.  (Spring Intramural online registration will begin February 20th)

Online registration allows the KORT Form, Parent/Athlete Contract, the athletic fee, and team fee to be submitted through the FACTS link.  After registering online, the only item that you will have to mail in or bring by the Athletic Office (ES) is a hard copy of the completed KHSAA Sports Physical Form if you do not already have a current copy on file.  Athletes may not practice or tryout until the online registration is complete, athletic fee is paid, and the physical is turned in to the athletic office.  The online registration will place the athlete on the coach’s official roster.

Sport | Grades

Boys Baseball | 6-12

Girls Softball | 5-12

Boys & Girls Lacrosse | 5-12

Boys & Girls Track | 6-12

Boys & Girls Tennis | 6-12

Boys Golf | 6-8

Girls Golf | 5-8

Boys & Girls Soccer | 5-8

Note for Mac users with Safari – please review required security settings.

Please follow the instructions below for your registration.

  • Click here to register.
  • Click Sign In.
  • Enter the user name and password you created when you previously reenrolled or confirmed your student.  (If you do not remember your user name or password, click Forgot User Name/Password?   An e-mail will be generated so that you may reset your password.   After doing so, you will need to Sign Out, close your browser, and begin step 1 again to be linked to the spring sports registration.)
  • Click Students on the menu at the left.
  • Complete the Spring MS/HS Sports Form for all students interested in playing a spring middle school/high school sport before paying the athletic fee(s).
  • Click the Start link for the Spring MS/HS Sports Fee.  Payment Options are echeck or credit card.  There is no charge for an echeck (automatic withdrawal from a checking or savings account).  If you choose to pay by credit card, you will be charged a customary 2.5% credit card fee.  Credit cards accepted are Discover, Mastercard and AMEX.
  • The online registration process has been designed to be quick and easy.  If you have any problems or questions, please call the Athletic Office at 502-244-3225.

    Remember:  A current KHSAA Sports Physical Form must be submitted to the Athletic Office and all fees paid prior to tryouts and participation in practices or games.  Note:  Dr. Viola will be offering sports physicals at English Station on Monday, February 6th please call Cora at 244-3225 to set up a time beginning at 6:30. The cost is only $20 and Dr. Viola graciously donates all monies back to the athletic department.

    CAL Announces New Head Volleyball Coach

    For Immediate Release

    Contact: Darin Long  [email protected]  502-244-3225

    CHRISTIAN ACADEMY OF LOUISVILLE ANNOUNCES NEW HEAD VOLLEYBALL COACH

    LOUISVILLE, KY – January 23, 2012—

    Christian Academy of Louisville (CAL) has named Patty Ernst as the new head coach for the Centurion volleyball team.

    Ernst played volleyball at Mercy High School and Waggener High School, as well as one year at Indiana University Southeast in 1991. She began coaching in 1992 as the freshman coach at Male High school before moving to Kansas in 1998, where she coached and was athletic director at Flint Hills Christian School in Manhattan. Ernst moved back to Louisville in 2004, and has coached volleyball at CAL in various positions for both the middle and high school teams. She has also coached for MidAmerica Volleyball Association since 2004.

    “I have enjoyed my past experiences at CAL and feel led to help these ladies accomplish the goals that we will set as a team for the 2012 season, as well as individual goals. I have a strong dedication to the game of volleyball and hope to carry that over to the team and help our program succeed to the next level,” Ernst said.

    Christian Academy of Louisville Athletic Director Darin Long added, “We are blessed to be able to bring in a caliber of coach as Patty Ernst. Her 20 years of volleyball experience and extensive knowledge of the game will challenge our players to compete at a high level while she helps mold them into well rounded individuals.”

    Ernst looks forward to being competitive in the district and repeating as district champions.“I expect the girls to work hard and have a winning attitude and to carry themselves with confidence. Several people will look at our program and think we will be down after losing eight seniors last year,” said Ernst. “I take that as a challenge to coach them to be better than last year’s team. I will expect the seniors to lead, and the underclassmen to play up to the challenge. We have a lot of talent returning that can fill the void that last year’s seniors left.”

    Former head volleyball coach, Kevin Bowers, decided to step down from coaching to focus on his position as Assistant Athletic Director at CAL. Bowers was head coach for three years, with a 57-26 record, including a district championship and two district runner-ups.