Spartan Athletes of the Week: James Benardete and Lila Ogle

Congratulations to James Benardete and Lila Ogle for earning Spartan Athlete of the Week honors! 

James Benardete ’28 finished fifth overall at the St. Andrew’s Invitational Cross Country meet on Saturday. As the first Spartan to cross the finish line, Benardete posted a time of 18:21, helping his team earn second place on the day.

“James’ consistency in training spoke volumes on Saturday,” said Cross Country Head Coach Paul Carrozza. “He competed well in a tough field, and I’m excited to see what’s in store for the rest of the season.”

Benardete and the Spartan runners will race this Friday at the Hoka McNeil Invitational in Round Rock, TX. 

Lila Ogle ’27 led the Spartan attack on Thursday in Varsity Field Hockey’s 2-0 victory over crosstown rival St. Andrew’s. Ogle’s speed with and without the ball put the Highlanders on their heels, and her quick stick in the circle created scoring opportunities for the Spartans. After recording an assist on the first goal, Ogle added a goal of her own in the second half to secure the victory.

“Lila’s relentless in our attacking third,” said Field Hockey Program Head Chelsea Richards. “Not only does she create scoring chances in our circle, but she also manages the first line of our press, running tirelessly and putting strategic pressure on opponents so we can win the ball back quickly. She’s an energy leader on the pitch for our team, and it showed last week!”

Ogle and her teammates will face the Cyclones from Casady School (Oklahoma City, OK) on Friday evening at 6:30 p.m. Come cheer on the Spartans or catch the livestream here.