• Important Dates -->
  • 4/20: United Spring Fling
  • 4/27-5/4: RRPA's 'Frozen'
  • 4/23: NEHS Open Mic Night
  • 5/1: Senior Sports Signing
  • 5/3: Decision Day & Military Signing Day
  • 5/9: 'May I Serve' Day
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
Surrounded by her colleagues from the social science department, Aisha Ahmed proudly displays her “New Teacher of the Year” award. “They did a really good job keeping it a surprise from me and I think its hopefully a testament to what I try to do,” Ahmed said. Photo courtesy of Katy Greiner Babcock.
Sincere Support: Ahmed Named LCPS “New Teacher of the Year”
Hostess and English teacher Jessica Berg engages the audience while leading the Summit. Before the event took place, Berg was working hard to organize, contact, and piece together the inner workings of the event, as many big names, scholars, and guests were attending the much-anticipated event.
Women’s Rights Activists Rise Above at the “Rise To” Summit
At the U.S. Air National Guard stand, two guardswoman talk to interested students and parents about participation and college programs offered. Other divisions of the military, like the U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force attended the event as well, spreading information about their various scholarships and military programs.
Making Connections and Seeking Opportunities: Over 1000 Students Attend the Annual Summer Job Fair
When Coach Barry isn’t coaching, he works at his main job as a study hall teacher. He also loves watching movies and is an avid reader. His favorite book is “Nausea” by Jean-Paul Sartre, and his favorite movie is “The Godfather Part II” by Francis Ford Coppola. Photo Courtesy of Ousmane Barry.
Meet Football and Softball Assistant Coach: Ousmane Barry
Standing center stage, senior Ananya Akula conducts the Phoenix Chorale. “[Conducting and teaching] is really fun,” Akula said. “Music education is what I want to do.” On the day of the choir assessment, Akula found out that she received the President’s Music Scholarship – a full ride to the University of Miami Frost School of Music.
Melodies of Emotion: Chorus Performs Pre-Assessment Concert
Rock Ridge Alumni Works to Outshine Skin Cancer One Stitch at a Time
Phoenix Profiles: Humans of Rock Ridge
Phoenix Profiles: Humans of Rock Ridge
LCPS has experimented with the schedule in the past, leading to much controversy. Students and staff are left with mixed feelings regarding this years schedule change.
The New Schedule: the Positive, the Negative, and the Neutral
Volume V, Issue II: Winter 2022
Volume V, Issue II: Winter 2022
Return to The Rock
Return to The Rock
The U.S. Capitol on the morning of President Bidens Inauguration.
Road To The Presidency
A distorted image of an I Voted sticker from Loudoun County. (Photo courtesy of Katy Greiner)
What’s A Rumor You’ve Heard About The Election?
The general election, and final day to vote, will take place on Nov. 3. In Virginia, polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
What To Expect On Decision Day: Ins and Outs Of Following A Major Election
President Donald Trump delivers the State of the Union address at the U.S. Capitol on Feb. 5, 2019. (White House/Shaelah Craighead)
Trump Agrees on New Spending Bill; Promises an Emergency Declaration
Senior Kyle Woody and sophomore Riya Cheruki pitch for their teams. The game had many ups and downs for both the opponent and the Phoenix, but in the end, the Lightning were able to secure the win for both their softball and baseball teams.
Lightning Strike Phoenix During Baseball/Softball Double Header
Freshman Leeyu Assefa returns a powerful serve in her scrimmage match. “It’s definitely an experience, sometimes it can be a lot seeing people who are more talented and really skilled when you’re first starting off,” freshman and Assefa’s teammate Skylar Helms said.
Cross-District Deuces: Phoenix Falter to Rams
The Phoenix set up for the next play as the Patriots gain possession of the ball.
Phoenix Girls Lacrosse Takes on the Patriots in a Hard Fought Game
With unwavering concentration, sophomore Sathvik Mathi positions himself on the tennis court, eyes fixed on the fluorescent yellow ball, as he prepares to strike. His grip tightens around the handle of his racket as he gets ready to swing. With a swift and powerful motion, he connects with the ball, sending it hurtling toward his opponents side of the court.
Phoenix Boys Tennis Trample Over Spartans
With the energy and effort the Bolts were bringing to the game, the Phoenix had to step up and match them to make it through their first game of the season. Many of the girls on the team, including freshman Nazly Rostom, have been playing soccer since their childhood and have grown a love for the sport as a result. “It was fun to see how we actually played in a [real] game,” Rostom said. “Even though the outcome was not what we were hoping for, I’m still happy we got to play together.”
Phoenix Stand Strong Against the Lightning’s Thunder
As the cross country season comes to an end, team members managed to qualify for districts. Although it was the first time the boys made it to districts, senior Ayush Marwaha still treated the meet like any other. “The atmosphere has always been crazy at the meet,” Marwaha said. “The adrenaline rush is always insane, but I feel like Ive gotten used to it. Before every meet, I always tell myself to try and be calm.”
Cross Country Races Towards Districts
A four-year member of the program, senior Austin Fisher searches for an opening in hopes of securing a crucial first down for the Phoenix. An elite receiver and linebacker, Fisher has consistently made an impact not only on offense and defense, but also off the field.
Senior Night Sparks Phoenix Win Over Atoms
Held up by a group of cheerleaders, flyer sophomore Leyu Yonas poses as part of a stunt, also supported by flyer junior Shayne Mitchell behind her. (Left) Prior to the pink out football game on Oct. 13, the athletes practiced in the aux gym from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Right) On Oct. 19, the cheerleaders competed in their District Championships at Woodgrove High School. “We definitely put all our effort on the mat [at Districts], and it showed,” Mitchell said. Left: Photo by Nadia Shirr. Right: Photo by Steve Prakope via Victor O’Neill Studios.
From Practice to Performance and Beyond: Cheer Season Recap
Sophomore Xavier Smith (6), the Phoenix quarterback, runs the ball as his teammates help hold up the defense. “My [offensive] line collapses, so I just [have to run], and its a good way to get first downs because [Tuscarora’s] defense was really good,” Smith said.
Phoenix Face Loss, Falling Victim to Friday the 13
The Phoenix football team runs out onto the field to take on the Loudoun Valley Vikings for the Homecoming football game, concluding a week of fun and games for students.
Spirit Week Ends with a Final Play Against Vikings
The team celebrates their win against the Titans in a huddle around star player of the night, Eryn Chemoiwa, congratulating her on her accomplishments.
Free Throws and Four-Point Plays: A New Phoenix Rises to the Challenge
Phoenix cheerleaders complete a chant at a home basketball game. “Smooth and easy thats what we do,” senior cheer captain Reagan Carper said.
From Friday Night Lights to Bright Gym Lights
As the referee throws the ball up for the tip-off, freshman Simone Diby leaps towards the ball to get it in Phoenix possession. Diby is a new member of the Phoenix girls basketball team, and despite it being a change, she finds it enjoyable. “It’s definitely a different experience if you’ve never played on a team, [but] I think it’s still fun.”
Phoenix Take Down the Titans
Freshman defenseman Brooks Furtek (44) cross-checks a Seahawk in a race to get the puck.
Pride/Phoenix Stir Up the Hornets/Seahawks Nest
Students rush onto the court to celebrate with the team after the buzzer beater three-pointer made by junior William Beck. “Honestly, I thought the game was over but then the clock stopped and my heart stopped, junior Mihir Peta said. “I was like, there’s no way this happened.”
Sinking a Last Shot on Senior Night: Phoenix Parade Over the Pride
Senior Kyle Woody and sophomore Riya Cheruki pitch for their teams. The game had many ups and downs for both the opponent and the Phoenix, but in the end, the Lightning were able to secure the win for both their softball and baseball teams.
Lightning Strike Phoenix During Baseball/Softball Double Header
Freshman Leeyu Assefa returns a powerful serve in her scrimmage match. “It’s definitely an experience, sometimes it can be a lot seeing people who are more talented and really skilled when you’re first starting off,” freshman and Assefa’s teammate Skylar Helms said.
Cross-District Deuces: Phoenix Falter to Rams
The Phoenix set up for the next play as the Patriots gain possession of the ball.
Phoenix Girls Lacrosse Takes on the Patriots in a Hard Fought Game
With unwavering concentration, sophomore Sathvik Mathi positions himself on the tennis court, eyes fixed on the fluorescent yellow ball, as he prepares to strike. His grip tightens around the handle of his racket as he gets ready to swing. With a swift and powerful motion, he connects with the ball, sending it hurtling toward his opponents side of the court.
Phoenix Boys Tennis Trample Over Spartans
With the energy and effort the Bolts were bringing to the game, the Phoenix had to step up and match them to make it through their first game of the season. Many of the girls on the team, including freshman Nazly Rostom, have been playing soccer since their childhood and have grown a love for the sport as a result. “It was fun to see how we actually played in a [real] game,” Rostom said. “Even though the outcome was not what we were hoping for, I’m still happy we got to play together.”
Phoenix Stand Strong Against the Lightning’s Thunder
Tiller released his fourth album as a self-titled album to show R&B enthusiasts that his run isn’t over, and that he’s starting a brand-new chapter in his music career.
He’s Back & He’s Better: Bryson Tiller Releases Self-Titled Album
The album cover for “Compliments of Grave Digger Mountain” portrays NBA YoungBoy as a mountain, hinting at the theme of him overcoming his challenges.
My Compliments to NBA YoungBoy for Making His Third Dull Album In a Row
Po must choose a worthy candidate of being the Dragon Warrior as he advances to a higher position in the kung fu hierarchy. The most unexpected candidate ends up being the one that strikes Po’s eyes the most and is trusted to ensure the peace of the people.
Kung Fu Panda Kicks Back Into Theaters
In “eternal sunshine,” Ariana Grande navigates the aftermath of her divorce from Dalton Gomez and the complexities of her new relationship with co-star Ethan Slater in the “Wicked” adaptation, exploring themes of heartbreak, resilience, and self-discovery.
Ariana Grande Shimmers in the Bright Haze of ‘eternal sunshine’
A dark fantasy film, “Damsel” flips the classic trope of ‘knights in shining armor’ saving the distressed princess on its head. Photo courtesy of Netflix.
“Damsel:” A Testament to Women’s Empowerment
Artificial Intelligence did not stop evolving when the ChatGPT craze flatlined, and a big scare involving OpenAI’s latest project demonstrates it.
The Controversy That Is Artificial Intelligence Development in 2024
From Friday the 13th being an unlucky day to knocking twice on wood, everyone has their own beliefs and superstitions, and some are held more strongly than others.
Superstitions Found To Affect Mental Health
Many companies often ask customers to round up at the register, but whether or not to do so can be a difficult decision for uninformed shoppers.
Rounding up: Right or Wrong?
Gift-giving is a way for a person to show their love and admiration through something other than words, physical touch, quality time, etc. It gives people a reason to do something special for someone, and it can be prominent all year round, not only for special occasions.
The Art of Gift Giving
Alabama recently implemented a new form of execution: nitrogen-induced hypoxia. This is the newest form of execution since 1982 when lethal injections were first used; the execution has caused controversy among advocates against the death penalty and health professionals.
Death to the Death Penalty
At the U.S. Air National Guard stand, two guardswoman talk to interested students and parents about participation and college programs offered. Other divisions of the military, like the U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force attended the event as well, spreading information about their various scholarships and military programs.
Making Connections and Seeking Opportunities: Over 1000 Students Attend the Annual Summer Job Fair
SPED Dean Jesse Hudson fist bumps sophomore Keira Bacas as she steps out of the school bus to begin her first day of school on Aug. 24. Teachers and students were excited to return back to school for Rock Ridges 10th year and were looking forward to starting the school year with new projects.
Welcome Back, Phoenix!
Class of 2023: 23 Questions with Jack Capobianco
Meet RRHS: Vaishnavi Raghunandan
The Unity
The Unity
At the U.S. Air National Guard stand, two guardswoman talk to interested students and parents about participation and college programs offered. Other divisions of the military, like the U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force attended the event as well, spreading information about their various scholarships and military programs.
Making Connections and Seeking Opportunities: Over 1000 Students Attend the Annual Summer Job Fair
SPED Dean Jesse Hudson fist bumps sophomore Keira Bacas as she steps out of the school bus to begin her first day of school on Aug. 24. Teachers and students were excited to return back to school for Rock Ridges 10th year and were looking forward to starting the school year with new projects.
Welcome Back, Phoenix!
Class of 2023: 23 Questions with Jack Capobianco
Meet RRHS: Vaishnavi Raghunandan
Book Bans: Silencing the Voices of Now
Book Bans: Silencing the Voices of Now
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
Shivoy Nagpaul

Shivoy Nagpaul, Sports Copy Editor

Shivoy likes sports, food, and cars. He's also a very passionate and expressive person.

All content by Shivoy Nagpaul
Nagpaul Swan Song: Shivoy Nagpaul vs Rock Ridge High School, The Champions League Final

Nagpaul Swan Song: Shivoy Nagpaul vs Rock Ridge High School, The Champions League Final

Shivoy Nagpaul, Sports Copy Editor
May 23, 2022
Seniors Shahaan Bashir (8), Varun Reddy (2), and Hamza Hirad (4) prepare to head the ball from a cross into the box during the first half.

The Phoenix Crush the Cardinals At Home In a Boys Soccer Match

Abhishek Solipuram, Sudeepa Pasupuleeti, and Shivoy Nagpaul
March 28, 2022
The Washington Commanders name, along with its logo and uniforms, were announced on Feb 2, keeping the burgandy, white, and gold color scheme from the original team design.

Commanding Attention: The Washington Football Team Should Listen to Their Fans

Shivoy Nagpaul, Sports Copy Editor
March 16, 2022
Double teamed by Titans, senior Bill Djan (22) looks for an open teammate to pass the ball.

Phoenix Basketball Soars Over Titans

Megan Hayes, Nidhi Manchala, and Shivoy Nagpaul
February 10, 2022
Coach Cortnee Williams (left) poses with the cheer team.

Winter Cheer: Cortnee Williams

Naomi Cho and Shivoy Nagpaul
February 3, 2022
Posing, Coach Andrea Wardell represents the Phoenix.

Swim Coach: Andrea Wardell

Naomi Cho and Shivoy Nagpaul
February 3, 2022
“We’re looking forward to having a great season. The team always brings great attitudes when coming to the gym every day,” Neal said.

Girls Basketball Coach: Gordon Neal

Naomi Cho and Shivoy Nagpaul
February 3, 2022
Coach Trent Lancaster commits lots of his time to train and build student-athletes both on and off the track. “My favorite part of the team is getting to know each athlete personally,” Lancaster said.

Track & Field Distance Coach: Trent Lancaster

Naomi Cho and Shivoy Nagpaul
February 3, 2022
Hayne poses with the team after a great tournament at Chantilly High School.

Wrestling Coach: Kyle Hayne

Naomi Cho and Shivoy Nagpaul
February 3, 2022
Circling around, the varsity boys basketball team circles around Geyer as he instructs them with different plays to execute during the game.

Boys Basketball Coach: Jason Geyer

Naomi Cho and Shivoy Nagpaul
February 3, 2022
After a successful track and field meet, Coach Bradley Burzumato expresses his excitement. “Track and field is like a close knit family,” Burzumato said.

Track & Field Sprints Coach: Bradley Burzumato

Naomi Cho and Shivoy Nagpaul
February 3, 2022
Our athletic coaches have been essential to the Phoenix’s success throughout the winter season.

Essential To Success: Rock Ridge Winter Athletic Coaches

Naomi Cho and Shivoy Nagpaul
February 3, 2022
During the halftime show, senior Katie Chepalis waves her flag in the air. The game against the Parkview Patriots on Oct. 8 ended in a win for the Phoenix, 35-0.

The Colors Waved by the Guard

Bella Gerardi, Alexis Cortés, and Shivoy Nagpaul
February 2, 2022
Michelle Federico coaches the varsity field hockey team in the Phoenix v. Patriots match on Oct. 5 at the Rock. As head coach, she wants more girls to be interested in a sport like field hockey. “[Field hockey has] always been my favorite sport,” Federico said, “It’s unique, it’s hardcore. People dont realize how difficult it is.”

Despite Field Hockey Loss Against the Parkview Patriots, Field Hockey Coach Federico is Optimistic for the Phoenix

Amelia Chen, Bella Gerardi, Shivoy Nagpaul, and Alexis Cortés
October 26, 2021
Shlok Sathe, 12

Shlok Sathe, 12

Shivoy Nagpaul, Sports Copy Editor
September 17, 2021
Jasleen Bhangra, 11

Jasleen Bhangra, 11

Shivoy Nagpaul, Sports Copy Editor
November 9, 2020
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