by: Aiden Alcorta

It is the new year, which means Baseball season is officially here. The most important thing once a new season starts is goal-setting. As for the Eagles, their goal is to make a run in the playoffs, and they are looking forward to bringing a state championship to Pleasanton. 

With that being said, the Pleasanton Eagles are just beginning their start to the season, playing 3 games so far. On January 17th, the Eagles battled a tough TMI team; unfortunately, the boys fell short 12-2 after having a rough game. On January 19th, the Eagles had a two-game tournament against Yoakum. Coming out with a hot start, the Eagles took the win 7-2. In the second game, the Eagles played Edna. After back-and-forth action, the Eagles tied with Edna 3-3.

The Eagles’ next game is on January 20th against Rockport-Fulton, which is part of an all-weekend tournament. Good luck to our mighty Eagles as they continue their season ahead of them. Pride, pride!

By: Victory

Eagle Powerlifting continues to go strong with the most recent girls powerlifting competition at the Victoria East Invitational, tying for 7th out of 16 teams. They’ve also made regionals, with congratulations to Jocelyn Bocanegra, Thalia Martinez and Aly Nelson for placing 4th in their weight classes, and to Aiyannah Lozoya for placing 5th. All the while boys powerlifting ranked 3rd place overall against 16 teams on Jan. 21 at the Holy Cross Invitational. Keep an eye out for regionals which will be taking place March 3rd in Edinburgh for the girls and boys will be on March 14 in Kingsville.

To get a little insight on the sport we’ve interviewed Sonny Alvarez, asking him questions like, “How long have you been in powerlifting?” and “How have you grown whilst participating?”, with riveting responses as he stated he’s been in the sport for two years, and has grown from a measly 950 to a whopping 1300. He also mentions his favorite part of the sport, the bus rides to and from meets. When asked what keeps him going, he responds with his love of the squat rack and the struggle. A final statement of his is to join because, “lifting weights doesn’t just make you strong, it makes you cool as well.”

All in all Eagle Powerlifting is soaring and we hope to see it continue and wish our eagles luck at regionals and whatever the future holds for them.

By: Essence Croft

This month’s tennis article features Bryan Rubalcaba. Throughout his tennis journey, Bryan has enjoyed playing, particularly in doubles matches against his peers. One of the challenges he faced early on was not fully understanding how to play the game. He mentions, “Playing against varsity was a big struggle because they are at a higher level.” Bryan also credits his friend Jordan Martinez for teaching him how to play tennis, saying, “He’s a great friend to hang out with.”

A cool insight that Bryan wants to share is that it doesn’t matter how hard you hit the ball; it’s about how you hit it. He believes tennis is a fantastic sport to try. Recent research highlights tennis as one of the best sports for longevity, offering a unique combination of physical intensity, mental engagement, and social connection. It is truly a lifetime sport that contributes to happiness and health.

As Bryan continues through the spring season, he is improving his skills and growing more passionate about tennis, with plans to continue playing next school year. Overall, Bryan aims to achieve his goals and continue supporting the Eagles team of 2026.

by: Alex Richter

In her first year in her new position, Head Girls Soccer Coach McDowell is redefining the culture of Pleasanton soccer, shifting the focus from mere scoreboard results to a sustainable, growth-oriented program built on character. With a philosophy centered on effort, accountability, and continuous improvement, Coach McDowell is determined to transform the team into a disciplined, united front.

“My coaching philosophy centers on effort, accountability, and continuous growth,” Coach McDowell stated. “We focus on doing the small things right every day and taking pride in representing Pleasanton.” 

For Coach McDowell, her approach demands that athletes compete with purpose. This vision is deeply rooted in establishing a positive team culture. “A positive culture is built on trust, respect, and communication,” she explained. “We emphasize supporting one another, holding each other accountable, and taking pride in being part of a team.”

Despite the hurdles of a head coaching transition, the team has shown significant progress this season. A major highlight included a commanding district victory over Floresville, followed by a thrilling rivalry win against Uvalde.

Individual skill development is a priority, yet it is always aimed at strengthening the collective unit. Coach McDowell believes that when players are empowered to improve, the entire program benefits.

“We encourage healthy competition while prioritizing individual growth,” she noted. “Players are pushed to earn opportunities, but we also invest in skill development so everyone is prepared when their moment comes.”

As the season progresses, the growth in chemistry and discipline is evident. Coach McDowell takes pride in the dedication and trust her players have shown this season. However,  handling any future adversity with maturity is a key goal, as she encourages direct, respectful, and open communication to resolve conflicts. “We address conflicts directly and respectfully,” Coach McDowell emphasized. “Open communication and accountability are key.”

With a firm foundation built on trust and resilience, Coach McDowell has set the stage for long-term success, ensuring Pleasanton soccer remains a formidable and respected program. Good luck to both girls’ and boys’ soccer, pride, pride!

By: Aiden Alcorta

It is the new year, which means Softball season is officially here. The girls’ softball team had a strong offseason, improving their skills and speed, and much more. The Lady Eagles have a few goals in mind; one of the most important ones is to make the playoffs and make a run, hoping to win a state championship.

That said, the Lady Eagles started their season on January 10th against Ingram-Moore. The girls came out strong and kept playing hard, earning a 15-6 win. The Lady Eagles had a two-day tournament on January 12th, playing two teams.

 The Eagles played Stony Point, getting a 6-3 win, and in the second game, the Lady Eagles played Burnet, also getting a 12-9 victory. Here are scores from recent games in the season. Pleasanton vs Cedar Creek 12-2 (Win) Pleasanton vs Dilley 12-2 (Win) Pleasanton vs Holy Cross 8-4 (Loss) Pleasanton vs Florsville 5-3 (Loss) Pleasanton vs Natalia 7-3 (Win) Pleasanton vs Winn 4-2 (Win) Pleasanton vs Winn 10-0 (Win) Pleasanton vs Poteet 16-0 ( Win). 

The Lady Eagles have been on a roll with a winning record of 9-2 to start the season. The Eagles’ next game is a all day tournament with their first game being against Ingleside at 9:00 Am with a following game at 11:00 Am. Good luck to the Lady Eagles as they look forward to continuing to dominate their season.

by: Alex and Larissa

PHS athletes across band, basketball, bowling, and track programs are currently hitting their mid-season stride as we move into February. The hard work and dedication displayed by our students are truly commendable, as they continue to push their limits and represent our school with pride. 

Our Mighty Eagle Band set a high bar for the season during their trip to Lytle for the Pre-UIL Competition. Competing against some of the region’s best, our students demonstrated the musical precision and dedication that have become the hallmark of our program. Both the Varsity and Non-Varsity ensembles earned 1 ratings, the highest possible score, from every judge on the panel. Congratulations to all our student-musicians for their superior performances!

In our basketball program, the standings are looking promising for our boys as our team competes fiercely. The boys’ team has made it to the district level, while the girls’ team did not perform as well. The eagle boys have shown remarkable growth, both in their individual skills and as a cohesive unit. With several games approaching, every matchup will be crucial as they aim for a strong finish heading into the playoffs. 

Our bowling team has been fiercely competitive, featuring several standout performances that have earned them recognition. The upcoming games will be crucial as they strive to improve. Senior Mylah Baumeister and Junior Milee Wilkins have successfully made it to the district level. The camaraderie among team members has made this year particularly special, and we look forward to supporting them in their quest for victory.

Track and field athletes are also making waves, with each athlete pouring countless hours into training, and their efforts are paying off on the track. It’s inspiring to see the passion they exhibit as they race towards their personal bests and aim to secure their spots for upcoming events. The excitement surrounding track season is palpable, and we’ll be cheering for our runners, jumpers, and throwers as they continue to excel.

As we look ahead, it’s essential to note the various UIL and athletic events on the calendar. These competitions will provide our athletes with opportunities to showcase their talents and skills in front of supportive crowds. We encourage everyone to come out and cheer for our teams, creating an atmosphere of encouragement and school spirit.

In closing, let’s extend our well-wishes to all our PHS athletes. Your hard work, perseverance, and sportsmanship inspire us all. Keep pushing forward, stay focused, and remember that we are all cheering for you every step of the way!

by: Alex Richter

This February, the Quill is proud to shine the spotlight on a friendly face you’ve likely seen in the front office. Though she has been part of our campus for just a year and a half, Mrs. Johnston has quickly become an essential part of the school community. For her, working here isn’t just a job; she says she has finally “found a home in a career where I can make a difference.”

Mrs. Johnston’s journey to our high school wasn’t a straight path. Before joining us, she spent years as a dental assistant and explored various other fields, describing her professional life as nomadic and “with the heart of a gypsy.” After moving from San Antonio to Pleasanton in search of a simpler life, she decided to take a chance on a job opening at the school. While the fast-paced environment was intimidating or hectic at first, she soon found her rhythm.

The front office can be a busy place, but Mrs. Johnston has developed a professional philosophy to handle the pressure. Instead of letting stress get the best of her, she focuses on logic and clarity to solve problems. To stay organized when she is “flying in 15 different directions,” she relies on a simple but effective motto: “Do one thing, finish it, and move on to the next.” This mindset helps her stay grounded and ensures that every student and staff member gets the help they need.

Beyond the paperwork and phone calls, Mrs. Johnston’s favorite part of the day is the time she spends interacting with all of PHS. Having raised four children of her own, she enjoys hearing about our “thoughts, ideas, jokes, and ambitions.” She also describes herself as “smart, funny, and friendly,” traits that are easy to see whenever you walk into the office.

“This is the first and only job I have had that I truly love,” Mrs. Johnston shared. “I want to be one of the people you remember from high school fondly.”

As we move through the spring semester, be sure to say hello to Mrs. Johnston when you stop by the front office. PHS is extremely grateful to have someone who cares so much about our school and our students. Thank you, Mrs. Johnston, for all you do for us. Pride, Pride!

by: Liam Powell

Mrs. Cheatham’s path to the classroom did not begin with lesson plans or literature circles. Like many students, she once dreamed of an entirely different future. Growing up, Mrs. Cheatham envisioned herself as a professional football player, an ambition fueled by competitiveness, discipline, and a love for the game. While that career path eventually changed, the determination behind that dream never disappeared. Instead, it followed her into a profession where those same qualities would prove just as valuable.

After graduating from college, Mrs. Cheatham initially planned to attend law school. However, the timing coincided with the height of the COVID pandemic, a period filled with uncertainty for students and professionals alike. Choosing to take time away from school, she sought a full-time job and enrolled in an alternative teaching program. What began as a temporary decision soon became something far more meaningful. “I taught for a year, and the feeling of seeing my students succeed was one of the most rewarding things I had ever experienced,” she explained.

Five years later, that sense of purpose continues to define her career. Mrs. Cheatham recalls several moments that stand out as core memories, including being selected as an influential educator by two students this year alone. Another milestone came when she helped her freshman students raise their STAAR test mastery to an impressive 85 percent, a reflection of both student effort and instructional dedication. Despite the pressures that often accompany teaching, Mrs. Cheatham remains deeply connected to the heart of her subject. “My favorite part about being a teacher is getting to read with my students,” she said. “I love to read, so being an English teacher is right up my alley.”

Her passion for reading shapes not only her classroom environment but also her approach to teaching. Rather than viewing literature as simply an academic requirement, she encourages students to engage with stories, ideas, and perspectives in ways that feel personal and relevant. 

For those considering a future in education, Mrs. Cheatham offers practical and honest advice. “Do your research,” she said. “Teaching isn’t just standing up in front of a board and talking to kids. Teachers wear many hats, and the profession can be overwhelming at times. Know what you’re getting yourself into and be prepared to be fully committed.” Her words reflect a reality many educators understand: teaching demands patience, adaptability, and resilience. Yet her continued enthusiasm suggests that the rewards, student growth, breakthroughs, and shared moments of learning make the challenges worthwhile. 

Mrs. Cheatham’s journey may not have led to a football field or a courtroom, but it has led to something equally impactful: a classroom where students read, learn, and succeed under the guidance of a teacher who truly loves what she does.

By: Kadynce Miller

Welcome, February, the month of love! February is mostly considered the hardest month of the year, not just because of the shorter days, but because of the bleak weather and the low motivation to do things. Valentine’s Day can take a toll on you if you’ve been broken up with or if you’re just going solo this year. 

February can also feel like a lot to handle, especially because we only have 28 days in the month of February, but also because of all the lonely people who see all of the couples and think, “Why can’t I be happy the way they are?”  

Just remember that you can be happy without a significant other and surround yourself with the people that make you happy, whether it’s your friends or even your family. You don’t need to have a boyfriend or girlfriend to be happy; you just need to have supportive people.

If you have just been broken up with, just remember that while February has shorter days in the month, your feelings don’t have a deadline. Find things that make you happy, whether it’s staying home with your family or going out with your friends!

By: Liam Powell

February often feels like a turning point. The excitement of the new year has settled, routines are back in place, and reality starts to replace resolutions. Astrologically, this month is characterized by themes of recalibration, motivation, and emotional clarity. It’s less about dramatic shifts and more about refining direction.

For many, February brings a sense of mental reset. Distractions fade, making it easier to focus on priorities, whether that’s school, goals, or personal relationships. Fire signs may feel a surge of determination, prompting them to take action rather than waiting. Earth signs could find themselves strengthening long-term plans, leaning into patience and steady progress.

Social dynamics may also shift this month. Air signs might notice increased communication and collaboration, while water signs may feel drawn toward reflection and deeper emotional awareness. Small conversations or moments of honesty could have a bigger impact than expected.

Overall, February emphasizes momentum through balance. Progress this month isn’t about rushing forward but about moving with purpose. It’s a reminder that growth often happens quietly, through consistency, perspective, and thoughtful decisions.

By: Jolenne Woodlee

Every February, communities across the United States recognize Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM), a time dedicated to shining a light on an issue that often stays hidden behind closed doors. While February is widely associated with love and relationships, it’s also the perfect moment to talk honestly about what healthy love looks like, and what it doesn’t.

Teen dating violence includes a range of harmful behaviors that can occur in a romantic or “situationship.” It can take many forms. A common one is physical abuse, which is hitting, pushing, grabbing, or any unwanted physical contact.  Another is emotional or verbal abuse, which can be insults, threats, manipulation, or humiliation. Digital abuse is another common behavior, including controlling passwords, constant texting, and monitoring social media. And of course, sexual abuse, which is any unwanted sexual contact or pressure.

What makes teen dating violence especially complex is that many young people don’t recognize the warning signs. They may confuse jealousy with affection, control with care, or manipulation with passion. And because teens are still learning how relationships work, they may not know what boundaries are supposed to look like.

TDVAM isn’t just a symbolic observance; it’s a call to action. February gives schools, families, and communities a chance to educate teens about healthy relationships, empower friends and bystanders to speak up when something feels wrong, support survivors who may feel isolated or afraid, and break the stigma around talking about or normalizing abuse.

The theme often changes each year, but the message remains the same: everyone deserves a safe and respectful relationship. Recognizing red flags early can prevent harm. Some common signs include a partner who gets angry when you spend time with others, constant check-ins or demands for immediate replies, pressure to share passwords or private information, insults disguised as “jokes”, extreme jealousy or possessiveness, or threats to hurt themselves or others if you leave the situation. These behaviors aren’t signs of love; they’re signs of control.

Parents, teachers, and mentors play a crucial role. Teens are more likely to open up when adults listen without judgment, ask calm questions, avoid blaming or criticizing, offer support rather than ultimatums, and model healthy communication in their own relationships. Even one trusted adult can make a life-changing difference.

Healthy relationships are built on respect, trust, honesty, independence, and communication. Teens deserve to know that love should never make them feel afraid, controlled, or diminished. They deserve relationships that help them grow, not ones that break them down.

While February highlights the issue, teen dating violence is something we must address year-round. Awareness leads to prevention, and prevention leads to safer futures for young people everywhere.

Talking about dating violence isn’t easy, but silence only protects the problem. By educating ourselves and supporting the teens in our lives, we help create a culture where healthy relationships are the norm, not the exception.

By: Diamond Olson

The rapper Stefon Diggs finally confirmed what we all knew: Cardi B did break up with him. She mentioned the breakup at her concert in Los Angeles recently. There were reports during the Super Bowl that Diggs brought one of his previous girlfriends to the game, which upset Cardi B.

According to the Sun, a source close to the rapper says he is doing everything he can to win her back, but she’s not having it. “She is very, very upset with him,” said the source.

“For now, she considers herself a single mother, and she has pretty much put up a wall between them. He has been trying to do everything to talk to her and see her, but she refuses to see or even speak to him since Super Bowl weekend.”

Another reason she may not be taking his phone calls is his legal troubles. Diggs just pleaded guilty last week to choking his former personal chef over some money he owes her. Combine all of this with a Super Bowl loss, and it’s been a rough couple of weeks for Stefon Diggs.

By: Ella Garza

This month’s sweet treat is a bit of a jump from the last, a sweet jump from the last. With February being full of red, pink, and romance, I see fit to do something sweet and red. What’s in front of you is the key to a beautiful strawberry tiramisu.

You’ll need: 

• Lady Fingers “Savoiardi biscuit”
• Heavy cream
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh strawberries
• Strawberry jam
• An orange
• Vanilla extract 
• And mascarpone 

Instructions: 

First, you’ll want to cut the strawberries in half and remove the stems. Then, set them aside. 

Next: to make the jam, you’ll mix the strawberry jam with the juice from the orange. Then zest the orange into the mascarpone and mix. Whip together the heavy cream, vanilla, and powdered sugar into a bowl till stiff peaks for roughly 7 min to make your cream, then combine that with the mascarpone. 

Dip your ladyfinger biscuits in your jam-juice and lightly coat both sides, and arrange them tightly and neatly in your baking pan. Make sure to fully cover the biscuits, and cover with extra jam if necessary. Spread half of your cream mixture over the biscuits and put the strawberries on top after. Do this for one or two more layers if needed.

Finally, refrigerate your tiramisu overnight and enjoy! These can be stored for up to a week in the fridge, but I doubt something so delicious would ever last that long! 

By: Genevieve Chancellor

During 2022 in Washington state, there was a series of robberies starting on May 24th to August 19th. The group responsible would reportedly break into people’s houses, claiming to be police wearing all black with weapons drawn. They would restrain victims with zip ties, including young children.

They would commit armed robberies and kidnappings based on the social media of their victims. Their first robbery was a family in Mount Vernon, Washington, where they kidnapped the young son of the family. That same day, they committed another robbery where they fired inside the house, avoiding injury to the victims. That was just the start of their 88-day-long reign of terror over the people of Washington.

On August 19th, the group broke into two different homes, but the most famous one is the Everett robbery, when a mother and her young child were shot and killed in bed. After the extreme amount of attention to the deaths caused, the robbers stopped. 

Two of the leaders, Kevin Thissel and Christopher Jhonson, were caught and arrested on August 15, 2024, almost two years after the crime. Jhonson pleaded guilty and will be sentenced on May 6, 2026, by District Judge Lauren King. Jhonson took the plea deal and requested to be put in the Washington State Prison system. The case is still currently being investigated by the FBI and local police forces.

by: Alex Richter

After a massive three-year hiatus and ten-year filming period, Stranger Things returned for its fifth and final season in late 2025, tasked with closing the door on Hawkins, the Upside Down, and a generation of beloved characters. The Duffer Brothers set out to deliver an emotional, high-stakes conclusion, and in many ways, they succeeded in providing a sincere farewell. However, while the idea of this final chapter was extremely noble and nostalgic, the actual execution left behind a frustrating amount of confusion, plot holes, and an overall sense that the finale needed more time in the writers’ room.

For those invested in the characters, Season 5 remains a moving and often triumphant watch in that department. The emotional throughline remains intact. Seeing the original cast standing side by side one last time provided the warmth and closure that the series needed. The best moments came from these quiet, character-driven interactions, reminding fans why they fell in love with this group in the first place. When the season focused on the bonds between the core group, it felt like the show was “sticking the landing” here.

Unfortunately, the narrative structure often buckled under the weight of its own ambition. The season was, at times, plagued by illogical plot developments. A significant point of frustration was the lack of explanation for the Upside Down’s timeline, specifically why Will Byers was taken, the wormhole being frozen, etc. Furthermore, the military’s role felt largely irrelevant and incompetent, especially regarding how they interacted with the main group.

While visually impressive, season 5 suffered from pacing issues that made it feel both rushed and dragged out. The decision to heavily feature new, less-compelling subplots meant that Vecna felt less menacing than in his original debut in season 4.

It is clear that the Duffer Brothers wanted to give fans a “happy ending”. However, in trying to satisfy everyone, the finale often took the path of least resistance. The fate of Eleven was meant to be a nod to classic, emotional storytelling, but instead, it left many viewers confused or frustrated rather than satisfied, raising more questions than it answered. The final battle, while high-budget, lacked the creative tension of previous seasons, resulting in a “safe” conclusion that was emotionally satisfying but conceptually weak.

Stranger Things season 5 is a “good” finale, but not a great one. It succeeded in being an emotional, nostalgic journey that allowed us to say goodbye to Hawkins with affection. The idea was great, but the execution didn’t hold strong. It is a solid, albeit messy, conclusion to a once-amazing series.

Rating: 7.5/10

By: Aiden Alcorta

The boys’ basketball season is off to an incredible start as the Pleasanton Eagles enter the second round of district play with an impressive district record of 4-0, which puts them in first place within their district. Their determination to keep up this strong performance is clear as they look to secure a playoff spot for the first time since the 2022 season. Throughout the early part of the season, the Eagles have demonstrated their skill and teamwork with a four-game winning streak. Their wins include strong performances against tough competitors, beginning with a strong performance against Pearsall, winning the game 61-43. Next was a close match against Floresville, where the Eagles won 42-37. Uvalde also fell to the Eagles, who won 60-48, and Carrizo Springs was beaten as well in a competitive game that ended 48-38. With just 2-3 more wins needed to guarantee their place in the playoffs, the Eagles remain focused on their goals. They are using lessons learned from previous setbacks as motivation to enhance their performance. Every cheer from the stands can make a difference in boosting the team’s morale.

Exciting games are coming up for the Eagles in the next weeks, including a rematch against Uvalde on February 3rd at 7:00 PM, wrapping up this stretch with a game against Carrizo Springs on February 6th at 7:00 PM. Each of these matches is a critical chance for the Eagles to strengthen their position and get closer to the playoffs. Pride, pride!

by: Alex Richter

The PHS bowling team officially opened its 2026 season, showcasing significant persistence and growth from both returning and first-year bowlers. The team hit the lanes this year with stronger averages and a sharpened mental focus, with many athletes already surpassing their point totals from last season.

At the heart of the girls’ team is captain Milee Wilkins, whose journey to the sport began unexpectedly. Now in her third year of bowling, Milee credits her start to a group of friends who eventually moved on from the sport. “I started because my friends wanted to do it. I thought it would be fun,” Milee shared. They ended up leaving, “but honestly, I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for them.”

That initial spark has turned into a leadership role. As captain, Milee focuses on the technical and emotional aspects of the game, guiding her teammates through the highs and lows of a match. “I support and guide the team by encouraging them and giving them tips on what adjustments to make,” she explained. The results of the team’s hard work are becoming visible on the scoreboard. According to Milee, the most rewarding part of the season has been watching the team’s evolution, noting that several players are achieving higher averages as the year progresses.

The season itself has been marked by energy and rivalry. The team faced competitive early-season matches on January 5, 7, and 14, with an additional game scheduled for January 21, and a final varsity match on February 4. Their first game of the semester, a matchup against La Vernia, served as a wake-up call for the girls. After years of victories over the opponent, the team entered with confidence but quickly found themselves outpaced. The loss set the tone for improvement going into their next match, a tense rivalry game against East Central. There, the girls fought frame-for-frame, narrowly falling short by just eight pins, a margin so small it reaffirmed Pleasanton as a serious threat on the lanes.

Most recently, the girls secured a win against La Vernia on January 14. Though the victory was close, the performance demonstrated technical resilience during a night when several bowlers worked to find their lines and adjust approaches. Still, the win reinforced Pleasanton’s position heading into the latter half of the season. For players Milee Wilkins and Mylah Baumeister, the momentum carries extra meaning: both athletes have already secured district and helped the girls clinch regionals well before the end of the season. The team will face La Vernia again in the coming weeks, aiming to send a final message before postseason play.

However, the season hasn’t been without its hurdles. Between late-evening matches and pressuring practice schedules, Milee noted that the most challenging part of the year has been balancing schoolwork with her commitment to the team. When the pressure intensifies during a tight frame, the girls rely on a simple but effective strategy: mental toughness. “The team handles pressure by taking deep breaths, focusing on one shot at a time, and just coming together as a team,” Milee said.

While Coach Fox continues to lead the program toward its semester goals of technical improvement and strategic drilling, the team remains focused on the road to February. Whether it’s through specific drills or evaluating success beyond just the final score, the program is built on the idea that bowling is a sport for everyone. As the season intensifies, Milee has a message for the readers of The Quill: “Bowling is a great sport for people in junior high and high school, regardless of their ability level.”

The PHS bowling team will continue its matches through February and encourages its peers to come out, show their Eagle pride, and support the program as they roll toward the finish line. Pride, pride!

by: Alex Richter

The PHS powerlifting team officially kicked off its 2026 season this January, showcasing the results of disciplined training, meticulous nutrition planning, and grueling lifting sessions. Under the leadership of Coach Palmer and Coach Aley, athletes have steadily increased their max lifts since training began, with new members already making a strong impression on the platform.

The season is already in full swing for the PHS lifters. The girls’ team led the charge with their first meet on January 7th, while the boys’ team was on January 21st. Supporters looking to catch the action should head to Holy Cross in San Antonio, where all upcoming meets are scheduled for 5:00 PM. Mark your calendars for the following February dates. February 4th is a girls’ meet, and February 11th is a boys’ meet.

For many on the team, powerlifting is more than just moving weight; it’s a way to build confidence. Senior lifter Izaac Spain joined the program after discovering a passion for lifting in the 8th grade, eventually realizing he enjoyed the atmosphere of the weight room even more than the football field.

Izaac has seen massive gains since his freshman year, particularly on the bench press. “In freshman year, I could barely do 135 [pounds],” Izaac noted. “Now I’m at 335.” While he is proud of his bench, his favorite lift remains the squat, thanks to his natural leg and back strength. This season, he has set his sights on these numbers: an 800-pound squat and a 405-pound bench. To handle the high-pressure environment of a meet, Izaac relies on music to stay focused and motivated. However, the biggest takeaway for him hasn’t just been physical.

“Go do something out of your comfort zone,” Izaac advised. The senior powerlifter shared that he didn’t feel comfortable at first lifting in front of people, but he met new people and became less socially awkward with time.

As the team moves deeper into the schedule, the focus remains on technical precision and safety. Coaches Palmer and Aley continue to push the athletes toward their goals. The path to regionals is paved with heavy sets and consistent effort. 

With the February meets fast approaching, the powerlifters are working harder than ever to ensure PHS is well-represented on the podium. The team encourages their peers to make the trip to San Antonio to support the program as the season intensifies and the weights get heavier.

By: Diamond, Kadynce, and Larissa

Eagle soccer is in full swing this winter, with both the Boys’ and Girls’ teams actively competing. The Varsity Boys’ team started their season with a few losses but has since turned things around, earning five wins. On January 1st, they played against Carroll and secured a convincing victory with a score of 3-0. Throughout the season, they faced off against teams like Idea, Canyon Lake, and Alice, managing to keep their opponents’ scores to less than one goal in those matches. Unfortunately, their winning streak came to an end when they matched up against Bandera.

Coach Pacheco, who has been with the team since their junior high days, recently shared his thoughts in an interview with the local news outlet, Pleasanton Express. He expressed great excitement about the current season, noting the special journey he has witnessed as the players have grown over the years. “Now they’re seniors, and seeing them grow, it’s been something really special,” he stated.

With twelve seniors on the Varsity team, Coach Pacheco emphasizes the importance of team bonding as they prepare to begin district play on January 27th against Floresville. The energy and camaraderie among the players are palpable, setting the stage for an exciting remainder of the season. Pride, pride!

by: Aiden and Alex

As the spring semester begins at PHS, the campus is abuzz with activity. Throughout January, PHS athletes and UIL competitors have officially started their early-season competitions and preparations. 

The swing of the bat is returning to PHS as both baseball and softball teams begin their training schedules. The baseball team has spent the month of January focusing on the fundamentals. PHS can look forward to seeing the results of this hard work soon. Softball, returning with a strong presence, has been polishing its defense and consistency. They look to build on last year’s momentum.

It isn’t just traditional sports taking center stage this month. PHS FFA members have been attending various livestock shows. These students have dedicated countless hours to raising and preparing their animals for the judge’s eye.

The program is now officially entering the heat of the livestock show season, where students will compete to the best of their ability.

The PHS Track and Field program has hit the ground running, literally. Practices are currently underway to help coaches identify competitive strengths across a wide variety of events. Their workouts focus on jump technique for some, throwing for others, and pole vaulting for the brave. Coaches are looking to see which athletes will set the early pace for the season after the first set of results is posted.

Whether it is the consistency required for a perfect pitch or the commitment needed to care for livestock, PHS students are proving that they are ready for the challenges of 2026. As February approaches, the schedule will only get busier. The community is encouraged to come out and support these students at their upcoming events. Pride, pride!

by: Alex Richter

The Pleasanton High School Chapter of Business Professionals of America (BPA). Maribel Cerrillo is the second student from the left, back row.

The PHS journalism staff is proud to recognize senior Maribel Cerrillo as the first Eagle of the Month for 2026. This spotlight is awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional character and a commitment to excellence both in and out of the classroom.

Maribel is quite the busy bee on campus, showcasing her outstanding performance in Business Professionals of America (BPA). Known for her work ethic and humor, she has become a standout personality at PHS while simultaneously maintaining a high level of academic success. Beyond her individual achievements, Maribel is recognized for her willingness to step up in the classroom.

As the January Eagle of the Month, Maribel Cerrillo continues to set a high standard of academic dedication, strong leadership, and positivity on the PHS campus. Whether she is preparing for a BPA competition or supporting a peer in the classroom, her impact on our community is felt by all. Congratulations, Maribel, pride, pride!