Beyond the Classroom
Alumni
Falcon Flashback
List of 20 news stories.
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Falcon Flashback | Corey Rice '94
Athletic Hall of Fame SpotlightRead MoreCorey Rice arrived at The O’Neal School in eighth grade and quickly made his mark on the soccer field. By the time he graduated, Corey had become the program’s all-time leading scorer with 114 career goals under Coach George Mauser (1990–1993)—a record that stands as a testament to his skill and determination. -
Falcon Flashback | Jeff Haarlow '92
Read MoreAthletic Hall of Fame Spotlight
Jeff Haarlow’s story is deeply connected to O’Neal’s basketball tradition. As a multi-sport athlete, Jeff played a pivotal role on the Falcons’ varsity basketball team during an era when the program was building its foundation for future success. His leadership and versatility extended beyond basketball—he was also a standout player on O’Neal’s soccer and tennis teams, showcasing his athletic range. -
Falcon Flashback | Jill McLester '91
Athletic Hall of Fame SpotlightRead MoreJill McLester’s athletic journey began at The O’Neal School, where she excelled in basketball and volleyball, setting the stage for a lifetime of leadership both on and off the court. Her dedication and versatility made her one of O’Neal’s most impactful athletes during her time as a Falcon. She was part of numerous state championship teams as a volleyball player and was one of the most prolific scorers in the history of O’Neal’s basketball program. -
Falcon Flashback | Jim Reid
Athletic Hall of Fame SpotlightRead MoreJim Reid is a foundational figure in O’Neal athletics. As the school’s first Athletic Director, Upper School Head, and coach, Reid transformed a vision into reality, creating opportunities for students to compete and thrive in sports. -
Falcon Flashback | Lorrie Hogan Stewart '83
Read MoreAthletic Hall of Fame Spotlight
Lorrie Hogan Stewart stands out as one of O’Neal’s first exceptional athletes, leaving an indelible mark on the school’s athletic history. Her versatility and dominance across volleyball, basketball, and softball set a standard for excellence during the formative years of O’Neal athletics. -
Falcon Flashback | Cindy Smith Strickland
Athletic Hall of Fame SpotlightRead MoreWhen Cindy Smith Strickland walked into the O’Neal gym in August 1984 for her first volleyball practice, she had one senior, one junior, and a handful of freshmen ready to learn. What began as a small group of eager athletes turned into a dynasty that would define O’Neal volleyball for decades. -
Falcon Flashback | Michael McGowan '09
Read MoreAthletic Hall of Fame Spotlight
Michael McGowan’s name is etched in O’Neal history as one of the school’s most accomplished golfers and a trailblazer for the sport in the Sandhills. His journey from a standout Falcon athlete to a professional golfer reflects dedication, talent, and a lifelong passion for the game. -
Falcon Flashback | Doak Finch '96
Read MoreAthletic Hall of Fame Spotlight
Doak Finch ’96 began swimming at age six, and what started as an outlet for his energy became a lifelong passion and career. “Swimming gave me something to focus on and yet be competitive,” Doak recalls. That focus propelled him from O’Neal’s pool to the national stage and into a distinguished coaching career. -
Falcon Flashback | Aleksandra Majka '14
Read MoreAthletic Hall of Fame Spotlight
From breaking records on the track to shaping skylines in Los Angeles, Ally Majka’s journey is a testament to hard work, leadership, and passion. A proud O’Neal alum and member of our inaugural Hall of Fame class, Ally reflects on her time as a student-athlete, her most memorable achievements, and the incredible path she’s forged since graduation. -
Falcon Flashback | Roberta Quis Fox '99
Read MoreAthletic Hall of Fame SpotlightWhen Roberta Quis Fox received the news that she would be part of O’Neal’s inaugural Hall of Fame class, her reaction was pure joy. “I was surprised, excited, and proud. As my family can attest, I smiled for days afterward,” she shared.Roberta’s story is one of inspiration, leadership, and lasting impact—both on and off the court. From looking up to older athletes as a young student to becoming a three-sport standout and earning Conference Player of the Year honors in volleyball, basketball, and soccer her senior year, Roberta exemplifies the spirit of O’Neal athletics. -
Falcon Flashback | Jack Casey '17
A leader, athlete, and founder of service initiatives at O’Neal, Jack Casey is now a medical student at Brown University pursuing orthopedic surgery. He reflects on how O’Neal shaped his path and continues to inspire his work today.Read More -
Falcon Flashback |Bridge Hu '17
In this edition of Falcon Flashback, we catch up with Bridge Hu '17, a world traveler and finance professional for Capital One in New York. In this interview, he reflects on his favorite O'Neal memories, travels, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.Read More -
Falcon Flashback | Patrick Mincey '99
From O’Neal to the courtroom, Patrick Mincey ’99 has built a career tackling some of the most complex legal cases in the world. His journey—from studying abroad during 9/11 to handling high-profile investigations in Washington, D.C.—is nothing short of remarkable. Check out our latest Falcon Flashback as Patrick reflects on his time at O’Neal, his path to law, and the moments that shaped his career.Read More -
Falcon Flashback | Jamaal Barnes '05
In the aftermath of 9/11, an O'Neal freshman, Jamaal Barnes took the initiative to form the O'Neal Volunteers. Now called ONV/Key Club, it is a student outreach organization at O'Neal that still exists and continues to serve the community. From the beginning, Jamaal has focused on seeking out the best in people and how they serve one another.Read More -
Falcon Flashback | Helen Holmberg Herbert '97
Helen Holmberg Herbert '97 made history for O'Neal when she became the School's first recipient of the John Motley Morehead Scholarship (now Morehead-Cain). Learn about her first reactions and her life and career moving forward.Read More -
Falcon Flashback | Nicole Poteat '06
Nicole Poteat '06, a 13-year O'Neal Falcon, values her O'Neal experience and its contribution to a solid foundation supporting her path to Harvard, law school at Boston College, and her current role as a private banker in NYC.Read More -
Falcon Flashback | Michael McGowan '09
From O'Neal state championships to the 124th US Open, O'Neal Falcons continue to cheer for Michael "McGoo" McGowan '09. We were fortunate for Michael to take the time to share his journey and future goals with us.Read More -
Falcon Flashback | Dr. Anne Ellis Friesen '81
Dr. Anne Friesen '81 has continued to serve as a trailblazer for social justice and human services here in Moore County and beyond. She reflects on her accomplishments and O'Neal memories.Read More -
Falcon Flashback | Jimmy Mahan
Before he became a sports memorabilia icon and social media sensation, Jimmy Mahan was the leader of O’Neal’s Upper School in the early 2000s. Nearly 20 years later, Mr. Mahan remains one of the most beloved figures in the School’s history. In this edition of the “Falcon Flashback,” Mr. Mahan reminisces about his time at O’Neal and the impact it had on his unique and crazy journey.Read More -
Falcon Flashback | George Mauser
The 90s at O'Neal was a special time full of fun and history-making achievements. Former Head Soccer Coach and Upper School Teacher George Mauser reflects on his time at O'Neal.Read More
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