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Macie Thiel : Reagan High School Softball StandoutSebastian Diaz : A Leader On and Off the MatMBy Sally Kalosacie Thiel, a senior at Reagan High School, plays right field on the softball team. She beganplaying at just four years old, inspired by her mother, who constantly pushes her to be her best.Throughout her high school career, Macie has achieved numerous accolades, including 2nd Team All-District (2024), All- District Honorable Mention (2023), and Team MVP (2024). She is also a three-time Academic All-District honoree (2022-2024). Beyond athletics, she is involved in FCA and NHS.After graduation, Macie will attend Ole Miss, majoring in Exercise Science.Her advice to fellow students? “Live in the moment. High school flies by, even when the days feel slow.”Macie’s favorite softball memory is learning to slide in a mud puddle with her little league team, an experience filled with laughter and fun during the summer.When asked about the characteristics necessary for success in softball, she emphasizes resilience and perseverance. “I developed these traits through consistent practice, overcoming adversity, and the support of my family and teammates.”Macie’s dedication, both on and off the field, is a testament to her hard work andpassion for the game.SBy Sally Kalosebastian Diaz, a senior at Ronald Reagan High School, has been a dedicated member of the wrestlingteam since his freshman year. Encouraged by a friend to join, he has since become a team captain and a key figure in the program.“As a senior, I’ve seen the ups and downs, but what always stands out is the love and companionship within the team,” he shares.Sebastian is a three-time Academic All-District honoree, an Academic All- State recipient, and a returning three-time letterman. During his sophomore year, he served as the team’s manager and photographer. In his senior year, he was a team captain and received the Coach Hernandez Character Award named after Reagan’s beloved former assistant coach which is considered one of the most impressive awards given.Beyond wrestling, Sebastian has been a student aid for special needs students and has gained experience in rehab and physical therapy from school trainers.He plans to attend UTSA for his bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology (Exercise and Sports Science) before pursuing a PhD at UT Austin.One of his favorite memories is from his junior year at Cy Fair: “Day one will never be forgotten with my friends.”Sebastian credits wrestling for teaching him discipline and resilience. “It’s the hardest sport I’ve ever done, but mindset is everything. Developing patience and surrounding yourself with the right atmosphere leads to success.”During his senior year, he took on a coaching role, mentoring teammates, including three state qualifiers. Now, post-Easter- continued from page 6to faithful Christians across the globe.EggsEggs might now be more instantly associated with Easter egg hunts for children, but the American Bible Society notes that eggs are symbolic of more than just fun for kids. Eggs represent the new life that’s symbolic of spring, which is when Easter occurs in the northern hemisphere. Christians view eggs as a reminder of the resurrection of Jesus. Interestingly, though colored eggs are often seen as a fun Easter activity for kids, the ABS notes that the tradition dates back to the early days of Christianity, when red-colored eggs were used to represent the resurrection.CrucifixThe crucifix, which is a distinct representation of a cross with Jesus Christ on it, is symbolic of the crucifixion and subsequent resurrection of Jesus. The ABS notes that the resurrection of Jesus symbolizes his victory over the power of sin and death.The LambFOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT® FOR HEALTHY LIVINGFOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITYRegister Today!ymcasatx.org/youthsportsYMCA OF GREATER SAN ANTONIOSebastain proudly shows his recognition of the Coach Hernandez Character Award and his Academic All District Certificate. He also is wearing his green singlet that shows he was Captain of his team.season, he spends his time in the weight room, helping younger athletes improve their form and reach their potential.Jesus is referred to in the Bible as the “Lamb of God” (Revelation 5:6-14), so the lamb is another important Easter symbol for Christians. In addition, in John (1:29), Jesus is referred to by John the Baptist as the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” Easter BunnyAnother symbol, like Easter eggs, that people could be forgiven for mistaking as purely secular, the Easter Bunny is not entirely separate from the spiritual meaning of the holiday. As noted, Easter, even though it’s a moveable feast, takes place in spring in the northern hemisphere each year. Spring is symbolic of rebirth, and the hare was a symbol of fertility among the ancient pagans. The spirit of rebirth associated with rabbits, particularly in spring, also is reminiscent of the resurrection of Jesus from his tomb.Easter is celebrated across the globe. Those celebrations feature many significant religious symbols that have withstood the test of time.10www.stoneoakhighlights.comApril 2025