Football

By: Aiden Alcorta

District play for the new football season is finally here, and the Eagles kicked off their journey against a formidable Davenport Wolves team. The Eagles began district play on September 26th at Eagle Stadium, facing off against the Wolves. To start the game, the Wolves took possession of the ball and scored on their first drive, establishing early dominance. The Wolves continued to control the game, leading to a halftime score of 35-0.

In an effort to make a comeback, the Eagles made several halftime adjustments. They finally answered back late in the fourth quarter, bringing the score to 56-7. Unfortunately, a critical offensive mistake led to a fumble, which resulted in an 85-yard scoop and score by the Wolves, extending the lead to 63-7. Despite their best efforts, the Eagles fell short against the tough Wolves team. 

Looking ahead, the Eagles are eager to bounce back against JFK on Friday, October 10th, at Edgewood Stadium at 7:00 PM. Currently in their bye week, the team is focused on preparation for the Rockets. In an interview, Head Coach Randy Palmer emphasized the importance of this time, stating the main goal for the bye week is “Rest, Recovery, Reps.” After the challenging loss to the Wolves, Coach Palmer noted, “We’re seeing our team improve. Davenport is one of the top teams in the state, and I saw a lot of good things from our team that make us excited about future games.” The Eagles are determined to continue their district play with renewed focus against JFK next week. 

 

 

Tennis

By: Annameek Haiduk

The Eagle tennis fall season begins to come to a close, although having a rocky start, the Eagles were able to push through, with their new coach, Coach Portio, and the help of their assistant coach, Coach Ramos. The Eagles were able to stay motivated, come together, and persevere. Hard work and dedication led the Eagles to have an amazing season. Keeping that in mind, here is a view on how the season unfolded. 

For their first match, the Eagles faced Kennedy, coming out with a win of 19 – 0. The Eagles then faced La Vernia, with a loss of 18-1. However, they were not deterred and continued through the season and went head-to-head against Karnes City, pulling a win of 18-1. Their next match, the Eagles competed against Gonzales, leaving with another win of 17 – 2. Yet, when facing Navarro, the Eagles faced a loss of 11 – 8. Even so, the Eagles then traveled to Somerset, leaving with a win of  12 – 7. Coming out on top yet again, the Eagles won against SA Memorial 10 – 8. For their last district match the team faced Floresville, withdrawing with a loss of 13 – 6. 

 The overall district score came out to be 5 -3; however, the season is not over as the Eagle tennis team is eligible for playoffs, where they will be facing Devine at Somerset High School on Monday, October 6th.  With that being said, let us hear some highlights from one of the Mighty Eagle players. 

Hagen Dailey, who has been playing since his sophomore year and is currently a varsity player, was able to share some of his highlights from the season. Hagen originally joined tennis to stay active; however, as the season continued, he realized tennis gave him a feeling no other sport did. He exclaimed that a highlight for him was those late bus rides home after a match. No matter a win or a loss, the team was always able to come together and have an amazing time. The late-night talks, laughter, as well as bonding have always made tennis so worth it to him. The bonding time was such a great endeavor for the team after a change in coaches. The new style of coaching made tennis feel a little more rigorous; however, the team always had each other. Hagen hopes that with his skills and knowledge in tennis that he can continue to keep playing throughout college and use it as a way to keep him active. In summary, Hagen is grateful for the new opportunity that tennis gave him. 

 

Sports and UIL Recap

By: Alex Richter

As October came to a close, PHS celebrated outstanding achievements across various activities, including the marching band, bowling start-ups, and impressive cross-country performances. These accomplishments not only showcased the talent of PHS students but also highlighted their dedication and team spirit.

The marching band kicked off the month with its first contest on Saturday, October 4, at Judson ISD. With hard work and practice leading up to this event, band members were excited to demonstrate their skills and represent their school.

In bowling, tryouts were held on October 28 at Eagle Lanes, sponsored by Mrs. Williams. The tryouts provided an opportunity for students to showcase their bowling abilities and vie for a spot on the team, creating an atmosphere of friendly competition and enthusiasm.

The Pleasanton Cross Country team had a recent meet in Uvalde. The Varsity Girls team had a remarkable day, claiming 1st Place Team honors, with every runner bringing home a medal. Jewely Oltivero, Aaliyah Vasquez-Arguijo, Vivian Villarreal, Kensley Cordova, Evalynn Garza, and Jenneen Adame all contributed significantly to the team’s success with their exceptional performances. The Varsity Boys team also shone brightly, finishing in second place, with all six runners earning medals. Micah Klein, Edgar Duran Saldana, Logan Rugen, Tristan Sanchez, Elijah Marquez, and Tommy Lopez each delivered outstanding runs, showcasing their dedication and talent. Joe Martinez added to the team’s strong showing with a commendable race.

In the JV category, Ty Holt led the boys’ race with a first-place finish, supported by strong performances from Elijah Dunn-Flores and Devon Sanchez. The JV Girls team also competed admirably, with Jazmyne Contreras, Kimber Leal, and Summer Talkington running impressive races and proudly representing Pleasanton. Overall, the meet was a tremendous success for the Eagles, who are gearing up for the upcoming district meet next week in Uvalde. With such strong performances and unwavering determination, the PHS teams continue to demonstrate their readiness for the challenges ahead.

In conclusion, October has been a month of tremendous achievements for Pleasanton High School, showcasing the diverse talents of its students in music, sports, and teamwork. As the school community prepares for the district meet and other upcoming events, the spirit of camaraderie and excellence continues to thrive at PHS.

Volleyball

by: Aiden Alcorta 

As the district competition continues for our Lady Eagles volleyball team, they have faced a challenging start, but are determined to improve their district record. Currently, the Eagles hold a 1-5 record after playing some tough opponents. Their first district win came against D’Hanis with an impressive score of 3-0. 

However, they have also experienced several setbacks, losing matches to Pleasanton (3-0), Carrizo Springs (3-0), Devine (3-0), and Floresville (3-0). They managed a second win against Somerset, finishing the match 3-1. 

The Lady Eagles’ next home game is scheduled for October 21st against Pearsall at 6:00 PM. Let’s show our support for the Eagles and cheer them on to victory! 

 

Eagle of the Month: Jakob Escalara

By: Ivy Arredondo & Victory Alcantara

Jakob Escalara is the Quill Staff’s Eagle of the Month for October. A dedicated member of the Mighty Eagle Band for the past six years, Jakob plays the marching tenors for football games and band competitions. He finds joy in many aspects of being in the band, particularly enjoying the field trips and bus rides to competitions. This part of the band experience allows him to have fun with friends and build strong bonds with fellow band members.

When asked about this year’s band, Jakob enthusiastically states, “I would compare this year significantly greater than last year. Last year was not our best year, but we are all improving this year thanks to our new band directors.” He feels he has made considerable progress compared to previous years, largely due to the guidance of his new percussion director, Mr. Segovia, and the new techniques he has learned from him.

While Jakob enjoys his time in the band, he also faces some challenges. He believes that his ego can sometimes hinder his ability to accept corrections, but he is actively working to improve in this area. 

As a senior this year, Jakob recognizes that he will take valuable skills from the band experience, even if he does not carry drumming into the future. He plans to take with him the leadership skills, listening skills, and self-awareness he has gained through his time in the band. Jakob is excited to spend his final year in the band with all the people he has formed connections with and to continue engaging with the growing band community. 

Making a Difference, One Student at a Time – A Mr. Lawson Story (Staff Spotlight)

 By: Jolenne Woodlee

   

Welcome back to another fantastic school year! In this issue, the journalism staff would like to recognize Mr. Lawson for his outstanding commitment to his work. We believe it’s important to highlight the difference he makes in the lives of his students. This year, Mr. Lawson has been with Pleasanton High for about four years. 

When asked about his favorite part of working here, Mr. Lawson emphasizes the students. Although he can’t pinpoint an exact moment when he realized he enjoyed his job, he expressed, “Not an exact time, but when I was happy coming to and leaving work.” 

Mr. Lawson particularly enjoys teaching in classes that involve the coaches, Mrs. Cantu, and the Social Studies department. When asked why he chose this profession, he said, “Because I wanted to make a difference for students and make school enjoyable.” 

If you see Mr. Lawson around campus, be sure to give him a friendly hello!

 

Teacher Spotlight: Mrs. Moses — A Calling to Teach and Inspire

By: Liam Powell 

This month, we are highlighting Mrs. Moses, a teacher and coach who truly believes that education is her calling. When asked why she became a teacher, Mrs. Moses mentioned that both of her parents owned and operated businesses, but she always knew that path wasn’t for her. “I always wanted to be a teacher and coach,” she said. “I used to make my younger sister and friends ‘play school’ when we were little. It felt like my calling.” That calling remained strong, and as fate would have it, she eventually married another teacher and coach!

With 24 years of experience across seven different high schools, Mrs. Moses believes the best part of her job has always been the people. “I’ve been blessed to teach thousands of students and work with hundreds of educators who have had a tremendous impact on my life. Some of them have even become lifelong friends.” Teaching has always been her dream, and she can’t imagine doing anything else—at least until her retirement in 5.5 years!

Her advice to new teachers is simple yet powerful: “Love your students more than your subject area. Don’t take yourself or your job too seriously—have fun every day.” For Mrs. Moses, teaching goes far beyond lessons and grades; it’s about helping students grow into kind, capable, and productive individuals who will make the world a better place.

How to Have a Safe and Spooky Halloween – Advice Column

By: Alex Richter

October’s lantern light paints the sidewalks in gold and shadow, but as streets grow crowded and visibility decreases, Halloween can hide danger alongside joy. With costumes ready and candy in hand, families can ensure a memorable Halloween by following a few simple safety steps.

Pedestrian accidents rise on Halloween due to low visibility and increased foot traffic, which heightens the risk of trips, collisions, and confusion. Costumes can blur the line between fun and safety: long hems can catch on curbs, masks can limit peripheral vision, and excited kids may dash into streets while chasing friends. The good news is that many risks are preventable.

There’s safety in numbers. Trick-or-treating with a buddy or a small group reduces the chances of separation or accidents. Consider adding glow sticks to dark costumes, opting for face paint instead of masks when possible, and shortening long garments to prevent dragging. Use flashlights or small LED lanterns to enhance visibility, and always use crosswalks (where possible) while looking both ways and making eye contact with drivers before crossing.

Adults or older kids should accompany younger trick-or-treaters and keep track of where candy is collected. Designate a meeting spot if the group splits up, and check all packaged candy for signs of tampering before consumption. Avoid hard candies for very young children, and stick to factory-sealed treats unless you know the baker personally.

Stay on sidewalks, close gates behind you, and treat decorations with care to preserve good spirits. Keep pets indoors to avoid stressing them out. Ensure your phone is charged, and familiarize yourself with basic emergency numbers for quick assistance in case of injury. 

For a worry-free night, set a return time and check in so caregivers know everyone’s plans. If you’re driving, slow down in residential areas, as kids can be unpredictable. If hosting a party or event, provide clear pathways and secure cords and lights.

Halloween is a night of small transformations: wallets become trick-or-treat sacks, faces become masks, and ordinary streets turn into stages for spooky adventures. This enjoyment is best when everyone returns home safe with candy in hand and plenty of stories to share. By traveling in groups, inspecting candy, making costumes visible, and treating neighbors’ property with respect, let’s keep Halloween joyful and accident-free. 

From one neighbor to another: have fun, be kind, and watch out for each other. Happy Halloween! May your night be thrilling, your candy plentiful, and your footsteps steady.

Halloween Short Story – The Sweeties Scare

By: Eboni Belyeu

On a spooky Halloween night, a group of adventurous kids from a small Nashville town set out to explore a place that had sparked countless rumors and jokes at school. Inspired by their own ghost-hunting ambitions, they hoped to prove once and for all that the house wasn’t haunted.

As they approached the creaky front door, nerves and excitement mingled in the chilly autumn air. Instead of ghosts or ghouls, the kids were greeted by a warm smile from the older woman who lived alone in the house. Far from being frightening, she welcomed them with homemade treats and festive decorations, transforming their fears into delight.

The children quickly realized that the house’s reputation was more myth than reality. Their visit unveiled not only the kindness of the woman but also the joy that Halloween can bring when people come together.

The older woman expressed her love for the holiday and shared how much she cherished welcoming young visitors each year. Her home, once believed to be haunted, has become a symbol of community spirit and delightful surprises. The Quill Staff wishes everyone a very Happy Halloween!

October Horoscopes

By: Liam Powell

October is a month characterized by balance, change, and self-reflection. The first few weeks fall under the sign of Libra (September 23 – October 22), which is known for promoting harmony, fairness, and strong relationships. During Libra season, you may find yourself focusing more on maintaining peace with friends, enhancing your daily routine, or incorporating more creativity into your life. Since Libra is ruled by Venus, the planet of beauty and love, this is also an ideal time to express yourself through art, music, or fashion.

As the month progresses, Scorpio season begins (October 23 – November 21), ushering in a more emotional and determined energy. Scorpios are known for their passion, loyalty, and bravery, which often inspire people to delve deeper into their goals and emotions. Overall, October encourages us to seek balance like a Libra and embrace courage like a Scorpio. Whether you are reflecting on personal growth or simply enjoying the fall season, this month’s horoscope reminds us that change can lead to powerful new beginnings.

Let’s Get It Off Our Chests: Open Up the Conversation About Breast Health (Monthly Cause)

By: Jolenne Woodlee

Happy October, everyone, and thank you for reading the Quill. This issue the journalism staff would like to go over the importance of breast cancer. Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent health concerns affecting women in the United States. According to recent statistics, 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in her lifetime. In 2025 alone, an estimated 316,950 women and 2,800 men are expected to be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. Additionally, there will be approximately 59,080 new cases of non-invasive, or in situ, breast cancer. Given these numbers, it’s likely that most individuals know someone personally affected by this disease. Despite the daunting statistics, there is reason for optimism. When breast cancer is detected early, especially in its localized stages, the prognosis is remarkably favorable. The 5-year relative survival rate for early-stage breast cancer is approximately 99%. Advances in screening methods, such as mammography, along with improved treatments, have significantly increased survival rates over recent years. Today, there are over 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States, a testament to the progress made in diagnosis and treatment. Understanding the facts and statistics surrounding breast cancer is vital in empowering individuals to take proactive steps toward their health. Early detection through regular screenings can make a crucial difference in outcomes. The earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the higher the likelihood of successful treatment and survival.

Breast cancer is a disease characterized by the formation of malignant (cancerous) cells in the tissues of the breast. These abnormal cells can grow uncontrollably, forming tumors that may invade surrounding tissues or spread to other parts of the body. There are various types of breast cancer, affecting both women and men, although it is far more common in women. Upon diagnosis, the extent of the disease is determined by assigning a stage, which indicates whether the cancer is localized, has spread to nearby lymph nodes, or has metastasized to other parts of the body. Early detection through annual mammograms and comprehensive breast exams is the most effective strategy to catch breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages.

Breast cancer continues to be a significant health challenge, but with increased awareness, regular screenings, and advances in medical science, survival rates are higher than ever. Recognizing the importance of early detection and staying informed about the latest facts and statistics can empower individuals to take control of their health and potentially save lives.

New Discoveries – Mars May Hold Signs of Ancient Life

By: Alex Richter

NASA’s Perseverance rover has found an exciting rock sample from Jezero Crater on Mars. This rock has unusual “leopard spot” patterns, signs of organic carbon, and specific minerals that scientists believe could indicate ancient life on Mars.

Cheyava Falls is part of a layer of fine mudstone and silt, which on Earth is good at preserving signs of past life. The rover’s tools showed that inside the leopard spot patterns are different mineral zones, including phosphate vivianite and sulfide greigite. These minerals are linked to chemical reactions that often happen during microbial activity on Earth. Perseverance also detected organic materials and elements like sulfur, phosphorus, and oxidized iron, which might have supported microbial life in ancient Martian waters.

The mixture of these textures, chemicals, and organic materials is significant because similar things on Earth are usually created by microbes. However, scientists warn that non-biological processes can create these minerals too. Without lab tests available on Earth, it’s hard to say for sure if these features came from life. So, the find is seen as a strong possibility of past life on Mars, rather than proof.

This discovery is crucial because it strengthens the idea that Mars could have been a habitable environment. It suggests that Jezero Crater had the right conditions, chemicals, mild temperatures, and long-lasting water that could have allowed life to exist. However, it also shows the limits of what rovers can find. To determine if these textures are biological or not, the rock sample will need to be brought back to Earth someday.

The discovery is influencing future Mars exploration plans. The Perseverance rover will keep studying the Bright Angel outcrop and nearby rocks, while scientists on Earth prepare experiments to see if similar patterns can form without life in conditions like those on Mars. This finding emphasizes the need for NASA’s long-term Mars Sample Return mission. If it goes well, the samples taken by Perseverance could answer whether life ever existed beyond Earth.

Poem of the Month

By: Diamond Olson

This month’s poem is “To Autumn” by John Keats. Here’s some background on the poet: Although John Keats faced many struggles during his lifetime, he would later become one of the most celebrated poets of the Romantic era. Some of his most notable works include “O Solitude,” “On First Looking into Chapman’s Homer,” and his famous odes, such as “Ode on a Grecian Urn” and “Ode on Melancholy.” 

“To Autumn” by John Keats:

Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness.

Close bosom-friend of the maturing sun;

Conspiring with him how to load and bless

With fruit the vines that round the thatch-eves run;

To bend with apples the most mossy cottage-trees,

And still more, later flowers for the bees,

Until they think warm days will never cease, For summer has o’er-brimm’d their clammy cells.

Scrolling Culture: Fall Era (Pop Culture)

By: Alex Richter

Social feeds are adept at transforming small, vivid moments into broader cultural habits. Recently, we’ve seen a steady stream of viral trends, including a celebrity dance, gut-health food posts, and a new manicure aesthetic, all reflecting how celebrity influence, wellness curiosity, and beauty collide to create micro-trends.

A viral dance featuring Dylan Efron and Daniella Karagach exemplifies this trend, blending celebrity magnetism with professional choreography, inspiring countless users to recreate it. This collaboration not only entertains but also guides creators and brands toward visually appealing and easily remixable content, enhancing visibility across platforms.

Alongside this dance trend, a quieter movement focusing on meals and healthy smoothies is gaining traction. Younger users share relatable, fiber-rich recipes under new hashtags, emphasizing accessibility in gut health. Unlike the celebrity dance, these posts resonate with everyday audiences and encourage content creation from nutrition influencers and small brands.

In beauty, the “toasted manicure” trend is emerging, favoring warm, subtle finishes over bold colors. This aesthetic aligns with current lifestyle imagery, offering a polished yet approachable style for both salons and at-home users.

Together, these trends illustrate the dynamics of modern virality: celebrity content serves as an amplifier, while wellness and beauty trends rooted in everyday life offer accessible rituals for audiences. Expect more celebrity collaborations, niche wellness movements, and beauty products that blend authenticity with professional appeal. The driving force behind all these trends remains the same: simple, repeatable ideas in easily digestible formats.

Knights of Guinevere: Glitch’s Newest Animated Series (Series Review)

By: Victory Alcantara

Glitch Productions is an indie animation studio renowned for its impressive works, including Murder Drones, The Gaslight District, and most notably, The Amazing Digital Circus. This September, they debuted their highly anticipated show, Knights of Guinevere. 

Created, written, and produced by the talented team of John Bailey Owen, Zach Marcus, and the former Disney creator, Dana Terrace, the pilot of Knights of Guinevere follows Frankie and Andy as they attempt to restore an old, damaged Guinevere that they discover at Frankie’s workplace. 

Glitch’s latest pilot has generated considerable buzz as their first 2D animated series, with audiences remarking on its quality, which rivals that of major studios like Disney and Pixar. This level of success isn’t uncommon for Glitch, as many of their past works have been picked up by Netflix and Prime Video. Knights of Guinevere has also captured attention due to a significant contribution from Dana Terrace, known for creating the beloved Disney animated series The Owl House, back in January 2020. 

So far, Knights of Guinevere has been a tremendous success, amassing 12 million views since its release. The show is available for free on YouTube. However, producing this 2D animation demands a much larger budget than their previous shows, which is why I urge you to give it a watch and consider supporting them by purchasing their merchandise, currently offered at 15% off in celebration of the show’s release. 

Sweet Treat

By: Ella Garza

This month’s fall-y sweet treat is cinnamon-pumpkin spice pumpkin seeds! The tradition of roasting pumpkin seeds after carving usually ends with a more savory result, but who’s to say you can’t branch out! 

For this recipe, you will need:

*For every one cup of pumpkin seeds, use a half cup of each dry ingredient.

  • Salted butter
  • Vanilla extract
  • White or brown sugar
  • Salt 
  • Cinnamon 
  • Pumpkin spice 
  • Pumpkin seeds

Instructions: 

Before seasoning the pumpkin seeds, lay them all out evenly on a paper towel on a sheet pan. Then, put another paper towel on top to dry. Let them sit for about and replace paper towels at the 12-hour mark. While you wait for your seeds to be fully dry, melt your butter, add your vanilla, and your dry ingredients. Once your seeds are dry, remove the paper towels and pour your butter mixture evenly over the seeds. Bake for 40 minutes to an hour or until golden brown. Then, enjoy and store!

Seeds can be stored for roughly one week.

True Crime Vol. LXII: First Agent Down

By: Genevieve Chancellor

On October 11, 1925, FBI Agent Edwin C. Shanahan became the first federal agent killed in the line of duty. His assailant, Martin Durkin, was a car thief and a desperate gunman. Born in Chicago, Illinois, the same city where he was ultimately murdered, Shanahan was just 32 years old when he received information through underworld contacts about Durkin’s next drop-off location at a car garage.

Shanahan arrived at the garage with assistance from the Chicago Police Department. Although the lead appeared to be unreliable and the police waited all day, they eventually left to continue their investigation, while Shanahan remained at the scene. It was then that Durkin finally pulled in. Shanahan had planned to use a ruse to apprehend Durkin, but the suspect managed to grab a gun from the passenger seat and shot Shanahan in the chest. Shanahan returned fire, but Durkin eventually escaped, leaving the agent for dead.

Shanahan’s death marked the first time a federal agent had been successfully killed in the line of duty. This tragic event prompted a nationwide manhunt for the car thief, which continued until January 20, 1926. Durkin was found on the Texas Special train of the M. K. & T. Railroad, on his way to Missouri. The train was surrounded by federal agents, local law enforcement, and detectives. He was arrested before he had the chance to draw any weapons from his jacket or luggage and was ultimately sentenced to 35 years for the murder. Durkin was 53 when he was released and passed away in 1981 at around 80 years old. 

Video Game Review – Undertale 10th Anniversary Review

By: Ella Garza

Undertale is an indie video game by Toby Fox, available on just about any platform, developed throughout 2014 and released on September 15th of the following year. It grew from a mere Kickstarter campaign to one of the most critically acclaimed Earthbound-like indie RPGs of its time.

Imagine you’re just a little kid, exploring a mountain, and you just so happen to fall straight down a giant pit. That’s your setting, an underground world full of monsters banished after the war. You first encounter a seemingly friendly living flower, but, as you explore, you’ll encounter “boss monsters”, major characters like Torie,l among others. The handful of little easter eggs each of the 6 main areas has to offer keeps the game so engaging to play, with its multiple endings adding to its replayability value. With fanmade content and pseudo-spin-offs like Deltarune, the game’s legacy has been kept alive for all these ten years. But with that all being said, I do have a couple of gripes that were solved in future games like Deltarune. The pacing of Undertale feels too quick; one area transitions to another feels almost like a sudden cut. The story feels very coherent, but the execution undermines it a bit too much for me. In conclusion, Undertale has its ups and downs, but it holds a special place in mine, and likely many others’ hearts. I can only give it a well-deserved 9 of 10.

Meet Our Foreign Exchange Students

By: Essence Croft

Welcome back to our meeting of exchange students! For our October article, we are excited to introduce Julen Martinez, our first student. Julen comes from Spain, and his journey to America was inspired by his father, who shared wonderful stories about his own experiences in the United States. One of Julen’s great talents is playing soccer, which he enjoys immensely. When it comes to food, he loves Mexican dishes, especially enchiladas. On his free days, you might find him snacking on Goldfish, one of his favorite snacks. For TV lovers, Julen’s favorite show is “My Life with the Walter Boys,” a fun choice that reflects his sense of humor. We are happy to have Julen here and look forward to hearing more about his experiences in America, his interests, and the things he enjoys most.

Julen is excited about improving his English skills and hopes to achieve good grades in school. He also aims to win soccer games and explore different parts of America. Julen loves the vibe, food, beaches, and beautiful landscapes of his homeland. He describes himself as a friendly and extroverted person who enjoys meeting new people. Julen remains optimistic and dreams of having a happy family and a good job in the future. 

When it comes to celebrations, he particularly enjoys his birthday and Halloween, which he also refers to as the Day of the Dead. Julen likes to have several friends in his group because he believes that friendships are important and bring joy to life, making every moment special. Let’s hope that his time here will be inspiring!

Our second exchange student, Andrea, is from Denmark. He was inspired to come to America because of its unique culture. Like Julen, Andrea also plays soccer, which fosters his love for teamwork and competition. Andrea appreciates the nice, cold weather in his homeland, which is the reason he enjoys winter. He dreams of owning a fashion business in the future, showcasing his creative side and entrepreneurial spirit. When it comes to food, Andrea has a love for pizza and sushi, two cuisines that reflect his adventurous palate.

Travel is another passion of Andrea’s, and he has a strong desire to visit countries such as China, Japan, Brazil, Portugal, and Madagascar. He is particularly fond of pumas, which are his favorite animals, and red is his favorite color, symbolizing his vibrant personality. In his free time, Andrea enjoys watching his favorite movie, “The Hunt.” As he grows older, he aspires to travel the world more extensively and immerse himself in different cultures. During his time as an exchange student, he hopes to learn more about Texas and its unique offerings.

Andrea describes himself as energetic and expresses that he is “always up for something.” One of his visions for a perfect day would be to discover the world in just one day, highlighting his adventurous spirit and enthusiasm for life. The Quill’s staff wishes the best for both of these bright students!  

Cross Country: Building Strength Through Consistency

by: Alex Richter

When it comes to cross country, the first thing Coach McDowell emphasizes is that consistency is key. Just like in her own training, she believes that steady effort is what builds great runners.

Cross country isn’t for everyone—especially since training sometimes starts as early as 5 a.m. However, for those who commit, the rewards are worth it. “It takes someone willing to get up at 5 in the morning and run. Cross country is completely data-driven,” Coach McDowell explained. The athletes who succeed are the ones whose statistics reflect the hard work they put in. Beyond the numbers, the team thrives on teamwork and camaraderie.

Teamwork is what fuels the team’s goals for the season. McDowell has set high expectations this year, aiming for both the boys’ and girls’ teams to reach the state finals. Her coaching philosophy is straightforward: she doesn’t push her athletes to do anything she wouldn’t do herself. “I run with them, I train with them,” she says, emphasizing the importance of them seeing that she is in it alongside them.

Motivation also plays a crucial role in this process. During summer break, the team has a top mileage runner, and McDowell uses social media to recognize the athletes’ hard work. She believes that recognition and encouragement inspire runners to push themselves even further.

Ultimately, her message to students—and anyone considering cross country—is clear: “Cross country is difficult, but we can do difficult things.”

Football

By: Aiden Alcorta

It is the new school year, and the return of Friday night lights is back. Over the offseason, the Eagles’ football program had a major change with the coaching staff and the new play styles for the upcoming year. The Eagles acquired ex-NFL player Randy Palmer as the new head coach of Pleasanton High School.  Coach Palmer also brought along some of his coaching staff, bringing in a new defensive coordinator, Coach  Aely, and an offensive coach, Coach Moses. When asked how it feels bringing in a few other coaches you know very well who will be coaching by your side for the season, Coach Palmer stated that it has been great. He said, “I have known Coach Aley and Coach Moses for 30 years!  We have never worked together before, but I feel confident with our experiences in coaching, and the respect that we have for each other is helping us improve.”

The Eagles started the season strong and improved their strength and conditioning over the summer. The Eagles started their first scrimmage against the Hondo Owls. Pleasanton looked sharp against the owls and looked solid running the new offense. Pleasanton also scrimmaged Sam Houston at Alamo Stadium on August 22nd with a live quarter and ended up taking a 7-0 win in the scrimmage. The Eagles kicked off their season against San Antonio Highlands on Thursday, August 28th, at Alamo Stadium. When asked how he feels going further into the season after game one against the Highland Owls, Coach Palmer expressed that he feels good moving forward. He states that “Good teams get better each week, ” and “we have seen our guys getting better. Obviously, we have a lot of areas we can improve, but number one has to be ball security.  We can’t turn the ball over.” 

Overall, the Eagles have a few things to clean up. However, make sure to go out and support your Eagles! Pride, pride!

Tennis

By: Annameek Haiduk

The Eagle Tennis program has officially started and is ready for the season. The varsity team recently played hard against La Vernia on August 20th, 2025. However, despite the team’s best efforts, La Vernia pulled the win, scoring against the Eagles 18-1. The girls’ varsity team suffered a loss at 9-0, and the boys’ varsity team at 8-1. We would like to acknowledge Andrew Lucas for scoring for the team. Regardless of the turnout, the Eagle Tennis team remains unfaltered. With the girls’ varsity rebuilding and many returning varsity boys, the team remains at the ready. 

One of our players, LaCrisha Potter, was able to provide us with some insight. Potter, who joined PHS and Eagle Tennis just last year, has rocketed to the varsity team. She explains that this all started when she was a little girl. Inspired by the tennis she saw on television, she became a tennis player too. Potter has played for 3 years before joining us, and with these skills, she hopes to continue playing for fun in the future and throughout college. With that being said, here are some facts from her point of view of the match. 

In this match, Potter believes she did okay, but believes that she could have done better; however, overall, she had fun. When asked about what goes through her head while playing, she answered that she thought to just have fun and not get into her own head. Knowing that she had a good opponent and that no matter the outcome, it would be a good match because she would learn something from it kept her motivated. Potter explains that the most challenging part of the season so far is battling the heat, but by staying calm and keeping hydrated, she can overcome it. When given the chance to advise others who may be interested in tennis, Potter disclosed, “It’s a mental sport more than it is a physical one. Tennis is for everyone as long as you’re up for the challenge.” 

With these inspiring words, we wish the Eagle Tennis team the best of luck throughout the rest of their fall tennis season. 

Volleyball – Bump, Set, Spike!

By: Aiden Alcorta 

Lady Eagles Varsity Volleyball with new Coach Reyes

As the new school year begins, so does the exciting season of Volleyball! The Lady Eagle Volleyball team has been off to a fantastic start. The Eagles enjoyed an excellent offseason, honing their skills and increasing their speed, which has significantly improved their performance on the court. This season, they have welcomed Theresa Reyes as the new Head Coach for the squad. The Eagles have played 16 games so far, achieving a record of 9-7. Below are some highlights from previous games:

– Pleasanton vs George West: 3-0 (Win)

– Pleasanton vs San Antonio Memorial: 2-1 (Loss, tournament)

– Pleasanton vs Lanier: 2-0 (Win)

– Pleasanton vs (Tournament): 2-0 (Win)

– Pleasanton vs Del Rio: 2-0 (Win)

– Pleasanton vs Burbank: 2-0 (Loss)

– Pleasanton vs Lanier: 2-0 (Win)

– Pleasanton vs Lytle: 2-0 (Win)

– Pleasanton vs YWLA: 3-1 (Win)

– Pleasanton vs Crystal City: 2-0 (Loss)

– Pleasanton vs Brackenridge: 2-0 (Win)

– Pleasanton vs Jay: 2-0 (Loss)

– Pleasanton vs Marion: 3-1 (Loss)

– Pleasanton vs Poth: 2-0 (Loss)

– Pleasanton vs Tivy: 2-0 (Loss)

– Pleasanton vs Jefferson: 3-0 (Win)

The Eagles are off to a great start this season, and district play kicks off on September 12th against the Carrizo Lady Cats Volleyball team. Good luck to the Pleasanton Eagle Volleyball team this season. Let’s rally and support our incredible ladies! Pride, pride!

And the Eagle of the Month is….

By: Jolenne Woodlee

This issue’s eagle of the month is Presly Moos! Presley is a part of our Pleasanton High Mighty Eagle Spirit Squad. She has been a cheerleader for about four years, starting off her career in eighth grade. Presly decided to be a spirit member because she enjoys bringing the school spirit, and she also likes to be a leader. When Presly realized she wanted to be a cheerleader, she stated, “Ever since I was a little girl, just from watching the older girls on the track.”  

Presly is very skilled when it comes to cheer or dance. When she was young, her mom enrolled her in dance class, and she had been to cheer camp with her experience. Presly can execute her dance routine every time. If you were to ask Presly about cheer in her future, the answer would be, “That’s to be determined; it all depends on the school and if I want to focus on school work or sports.” Her last comments were as follows: “Excited to see where cheer goes this year, and I feel blessed with the great girls, I’m grateful for PHS and the opportunities they have to offer.” 

We would like to thank Presly for taking the time to answer our questions. And to Presly, “keep doing your thing and don’t let nobody stop you, you do you girl!” – Jolenne