PRESS RELEASE
Armenian Sisters Academy
440 Upper Gulph Road
Radnor, PA 19087
Contact: Susan Pogharian
Tel: 610-757-7090
Fax: 610-687-2450
E-mail: SPogharian@asaphila.org
Web:

The Armenian Sisters Academy track team does not have many things: a
state-of-the-art track, fancy uniforms or a big budget. Instead, this
team has a great attitude, a kinship for their teammates and an
ultra-dedicated coach. For seventh grade student Michael Knudson, all
these positives worked for him as he finished first in the 100 meter
hurdles at the Lower Merion Middle School Invitational Track Meet. At
this annual meet, 6th – 8th grade students compete from local area
schools, both private and public. Michael competed against boys whose
teams have a top notch practice track, coordinating uniforms and daily
practices. But it was guidance from his coach, Mrs. Caroline Gibbone, or
Mrs. G as she’s known to students, that helped him succeed. `Mrs. G
always inspires me and my teammates to do well and try harder. I’ve
been doing track since first grade and Mrs. G is a big reason I keep
coming back. She and my teammates always cheer each other on, and that
really motivates me, ” he says.
Mrs. G has been ASA’s beloved gym teacher and track coach for 20
years. She goes above and beyond her daily job and volunteers her time
to ensure Academy athletes at every level compete in the meets. `When
I started here at the Academy, I was also the Field Coach (shot, discus,
javelin, pole vault) for the Lower Merion High School Track team. I
started a small team at the Academy for the Middle School aged children
(6,7, and 8th grade). Back then, in 1990, our only meet was the Lower
Merion Invitational. In 2000, I retired from LM and started what is now
a comprehensive track program for all ages and ASA joined the Suburban
Development League,’ Mrs. G explains.
This is the first medal won by an ASA student at this meet since 2003.
Danielle Uber medaled twice, placing first in the 100 meter dash and
again in Long Jump. Paul Doghramji won the Bronze medal in the 100 meter
dash in ’03 as well. Both set ASA school records in their events.
Mrs. G was quite proud of Michael’s success. “This was a spectacular
experience to watch and be a part of. Michael had only two weeks to
practice and had to run hurdles on the curve of our much smaller track.
To watch Michael at the start of the race with a look of determination
and “the eye of the Tiger” was truly impressive and thrilling. He
surprised all in the heat and I think he surprised himself as well. An
outstanding achievement! INCREDIBLE!!!,’ she continues.
Michael’s success has inspired his younger teammates to strive for a
medal themselves someday. Congratulations to the entire track team on a
season well run, jumped and (shot) putted!

From: A. Papazian