Seniors Noelle Lawrence and Nathan Charron have been important leaders on their teams at West Haven High School. Noelle, a captain for the girls basketball team, and Nathan, a captain for the swimming team, have each supported their teammates and shaped the experience of their seasons.
Noelle’s favorite memory comes from team bonding. “My favorite memory is always when we do anything related to team bonding, especially every year when we have our team pasta party the night before the first game of the season,” she said. For Nathan, a highlight came in competition. “Breaking two records at SCC finals was unforgettable,” he shared. Since then, Nathan has set an example for his teammates, breaking his own record in the 100 backstroke to bring his total to three. Noelle has done the same on the basketball court, becoming just the eighth player in WHHS Girls Basketball history to reach 1,000 career points. Together, these captains have shown what it means to lead, giving younger athletes a model to look up to.
Serving as captains has taught both athletes lessons they carry beyond their sports. Noelle reflected, “One of the biggest things that being a captain taught me is to stay positive even when things aren’t going well because your whole team is always looking up to you as a leader.” Nathan explained, “Being a captain has taught me how to stay positive no matter what. Between off days, disappointing times, race losses, and team losses, it’s hard for everyone to be happy, so I try my best to keep everyone’s spirits up.”
Both athletes are proud of achievements outside their teams. Noelle said, “I am very proud of being able to maintain the balance of having good grades while also being an athlete.” Nathan added, “Out of the pool, I am proud of my relationship with my family. Without them, I would not be where I am today. I owe so much to my mom, dad, and older brother.”
Looking ahead, both have clear goals for life after high school. Noelle plans to attend Springfield College, major in Exercise Science, and continue playing basketball. “I also plan on continuing to play basketball there all four years,” she said. Nathan shared, “After high school, I plan to go to college and pursue a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.”
Both athletes credit the people who have shaped them. Noelle said, “My family, teammates, and coaches have had the biggest impact on me. They always push me to work hard and remind me to stay humble. Without them by my side, I would not be who I am as a person and athlete today.” Nathan reflected, “Every coach that I’ve had over countless years of swimming and playing soccer has built me into the athlete and the person that I am today.”
Noelle Lawrence and Nathan Charron have made lasting contributions to their teams and to West Haven High School. They will carry the lessons and experiences from their time as captains into college, their careers, and all that comes next, leaving an example for younger athletes and inspiring the next generation of Blue Devils.
