Whether it’s on the field, track, course, court or in the pool, the Golden Bears at Upper Arlington High School are difficult to beat. Fall sports for the 2025-26 school year have been underway since early August and will continue as late as December.
Members from the Bear Den, the student-led spirit club for UAHS, were asked to nominate one standout athlete from each fall sport to create a UAHS Fall Fantasy Team. Three seniors voiced the opinion of the Bear Den: Connor Canei, Henry Thackeray and Elizabeth Poling.
Despite the fact that there are countless strong athletes on every team, the Bear Den has carefully selected people that embody the spirit of UAHS. The following athletes reflect traits which showcase the qualities of a true golden bear: determination, dedication and skillfulness.
Football cheer- Evie Jones ‘26 “She’s always smiling and very loud. Evie is an extremely dedicated teammate,” Poling explained.
Men’s cross country- Matt Schmersal ‘26– “He’s really good at taking splits so he can pace his teammates really well,” Poling explained. Schmersal consistently showcases his “…winning mindset [and] love for the sport,” Canei noted.
Women’s cross country- Josie Cox ‘27– “[She is known for] her endurance [and] her consistency, that’s why she’s the goat,” Canei said.
Women’s field hockey- Grace Basil ‘26- “She’s the heart and soul of the team,” Thackeray said.
Football- Luke Backes ‘26 “[He] came back from an injury so fast and now leads the bears to victory,” Poling said.
Women’s golf- Elle Nolan ‘26 “[She is] very consistent around the green [and she] sinks all of her putts,” Thackeray explained. “Happy Gilmore fears her,” Poling said.
Men’s golf- Andrew Singer ‘26 “He always hits the ball straight,” Poling said.
“His swing is always pure…[Singer is] Mr. reliable,” Canei stated.
Women’s soccer- Elizabeth Poling ‘26 “The way Elizabeth levitated into the sky as they entered the ball against Jerome,” Canei said.
Men’s soccer- Sean Mankowski ‘26 “Nobody can guard him,” Poling said.
Women’s tennis- Danielle Ball ‘26 “Her serves are insane,” Poling explained. “She knows ball,” Thackeray noted.
Women’s Volleyball- Nia Fonoti ‘27 “She’s well rounded,” Thackeray said. “Nia has a rocket on her shoulder,” Poling added.
Women’s Water Polo- Lulu Bokker ‘26 “She spent a year in California, worked hard and boom brought it back to the UA pool,” Poling said.
Men’s Water Polo- Jack Boyle ‘26 He has “Illusiveness in the water,” Canei mentioned. Additionally, “His shooting ability and outside shots [make him] a great player,” Thackeray said.
These dedicated athletes contribute to the golden bear legacy through their hard work and determination. What makes their impact even greater is not just their talent, but the way they inspire teammates, peers and members of the community. As the 2025-26 season continues, their performances act as a reminder of the cohesiveness and dedication of UAHS athletics.