Seniors Caitlin Biancur and Bryan Brown have each made a lasting impact on West Haven Athletics by guiding their teams and taking responsibility for their performance. Caitlin, a right winger for Varsity Hockey, and Bryan, a short to mid-distance sprinter for Indoor/Outdoor Track, have both stepped up when their teams needed them the most. Their leadership is reflected in how they support their teammates and contribute to the team’s success. These athletes leave a clear impression on everyone they work with.
For Caitlin, a standout memory came when she scored her first goal against Hamden while her grandfather was in the stands. “He had played hockey all his life, and I always dreamed I would be able to score when he came to watch,” she said. Bryan’s favorite memory is getting first place at champs in his heat. “It felt amazing to see all of my hard work and training pay off on the track,” he shared. Moments like these remind both athletes of why they love their sports and motivate them to continue improving.
Serving as captains, both athletes have grown in leadership and responsibility. Caitlin described her approach: “Being captain has taught me how to be someone that your teammates can lean on. Being there for them as a person and captain makes all the difference in their experience on the team, in and out of the locker room.” Bryan reflected, “Being a captain has taught me that people are inspired by performance and learn from example. It’s important to show dedication and effort in everything I do so my teammates can see what’s possible.”
Off the ice and track, both captains take pride in their accomplishments and contributions. Caitlin shared, “I’m proud of my full commitment and dedication to my school and community. Being involved in multiple clubs, cheerleading, theater, and having 100+ volunteer hours is something that I have dedicated my high school career to and am very proud of.” Bryan said, “I’m proud of being a captain for both the VEX and SeaPerch robotics teams. These experiences have helped me develop leadership and teamwork skills outside of sports. It’s rewarding to guide a team and see projects come together successfully.”
Looking ahead, both are planning for college. Caitlin plans to study International Relations with the goal of becoming a diplomat. “I am not sure where I am attending in the fall yet, but I know wherever I go I will achieve my dreams,” she shared. Bryan plans to pursue mechanical engineering. “I’m excited to continue learning and developing my skills in engineering while exploring new challenges in college,” he said.
Both athletes credit important influences in their lives. Caitlin added, “Someone who’s helped me become the person I am on and off the ice is my mom. I would have never learned to be such a great captain or teammate without her life lessons. She’s always been there to support me, lift me up, and help to shape me into the woman I am becoming.” Bryan said, “My teammates and past captains have been a big influence on who I am today. They’ve supported me, pushed me to improve, and shown me how to lead others effectively.”
Together, Caitlin Biancur and Bryan Brown have shown what it means to lead by example. They make choices that help their teams and their communities. Their efforts have influenced those around them and set a path for others to follow. Their presence in West Haven Athletics will be remembered long after they graduate.