Falcons Nest - Oct. 27th

James Franklin, Director of Athletics
Conference titles are earned for Boys and Girls Cross County and Boys Soccer. Girls Golf wins the state title! 
Varsity Girls Golf
What a week for the O’Neal Varsity Girls Golf Team. The team added another state title to the trophy case and stamped their names in history by claiming their third in a row. With five girls finishing in the top 10 at the state tournament, it was an impressive finish to the season. A very fulfilling moment for the program was during Tuesday’s final round, with longtime friends, seniors, and co-captains finishing with a strong 77 and tying for the tournament.  

Great playing ladies, and Congratulations on a wonderful season 
 
 
Varsity Volleyball
 
Overall Record: 12-7 Conference Record: 8-4 
 
 
Opponent 
 
Set 1 
 
Set 2 
 
Set 3 
 
Set 4 
 
Set 5 
 
Match 
 
Davidson Day School 
 
7-25 
 
10-25 
 
15-25 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
L 
 
In a challenging third-round state match-up at #2 Davidson Day School on Saturday, the O'Neal Varsity Volleyball team exhibited remarkable resilience and unwavering positivity in the face of adversity. The game served as a valuable lesson in maintaining composure and supporting each other, even in the midst of tough moments. After a disheartening first set, the team regrouped, making both mental and physical adjustments that demonstrated their incredible determination and character. Their refusal to give up and their relentless fight throughout the match, when an easier path could have been chosen, highlighted the unwavering spirit of the players and bodes well for the bright future of this program. 
 
Varsity Girls Tennis 
The Lady Falcons made it to the third round in the 2A state tournament, defeated by top-ranked team, Gaston Day School on Saturday, October 21. What a privilege to earn the chance to compete at such a high level after a phenomenal season of tennis finishing with an impressive 11-5 winning record.  Seniors, Ava Simmons (captain), Rachel Wolff (captain), and Mia Franco will be remembered for their hard work, dedication, and leadership throughout the season.  Congratulations to this outstanding tennis team!    
 
Varsity Cross Country 
O’Neal Varsity Cross Country is looking forward to a BIG day at the NCISAA 2A State Championship on Friday at Wake Med Park in Cary. 
 
After finishing first in the SAC Conference for the Boys and Girls Teams, Cross Country has more work to do for the State Championship. They have used this week to pinpoint racing conditions and paces, enjoyed recovery and easy runs, and finalized their race strategy. 
 
The Falcon Cross Country Team is looking forward to stepping up to the start line and having an outstanding final race.  
 
See you at the Finish Line.  
 
Varsity Boys Soccer
 
The O'Neal Falcons Boys Varsity Soccer Team wrapped up their remarkable season in a fierce showdown against the formidable Davidson Day Patriots in the third round of the state playoffs. The match was a testament to the Falcons' resilience and the competitive spirit that defined their season. 

The Falcons began the game on an optimistic note, matching the Patriots' strength and determination through the first 20 minutes. The early phases of the match demonstrated the Falcons' commitment to their season-long philosophy of teamwork and unity. 

However, the turning point came when the Falcons conceded their fifth corner kick. In a cruel twist of fate, they failed to clear the ball effectively, allowing it to bounce around in the six-yard box. The Patriots capitalized on this opportunity, putting the first goal on the scoreboard, leading 1-0. 

The Patriots were relentless, and five minutes later, they found the back of the net once again, this time converting another corner kick to make it 2-0 at halftime. The Falcons faced an uphill battle but remained determined to turn the tide. 

The second half began with the Falcons remaining competitive, displaying the resilience that had defined their season. However, the Patriots' physical play gradually put the Falcons on the defensive. Their relentless pressure and aggressive style of play proved to be a formidable challenge. 

A significant setback occurred with an injury to the Falcons' star center back. This injury served as a breaking point for the Falcons, beyond which they could not recover. The Patriots seized this opportunity and netted three more goals during the final half of the game. 

Although the final game of the season ended in a 5-0 loss, it should not overshadow the remarkable achievements of the O'Neal Falcons Boys Varsity Soccer Team throughout the season. Their overall season record of 11-5 and the co-conference champion title were true testaments to their skills and dedication. 
The seniors, who played their hearts out in this last game, have set an admirable benchmark for the underclassmen who will carry the team's legacy forward in the coming seasons. Their dedication and teamwork have left an indelible mark on the team and will undoubtedly serve as a source of inspiration for those who follow in their footsteps. 

In conclusion, the Falcons Boys Varsity Soccer Team may have faced a challenging end to their season, but they leave the field with heads held high. Their journey was one filled with memorable moments, triumphs, and the invaluable lesson that teamwork and dedication are the cornerstones of success in high school soccer. The Falcons will undoubtedly rise to new heights in the seasons to come, fueled by the spirit of their departing seniors and their shared passion for the beautiful game. 

Photos by Wendy Hodges
 
Upcoming Falcons Sports TODAY(10/27): 
 
 
DAY 
 
DATE 
 
OPPONENT 
 
SPORT 
 
H/A 
 
EVENT TIME 
 
FRI 
 
10/27/2023 
 
 
NCISAA State Championships - Wake Med, Cary, NC 
 
XC 
 
AWAY 
 
9:00 AM – Girls 
9:45 AM – Boys 
 
 
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