This week we Take Five with Zack Tynan, a soccer player and volunteer for Relay for Life who likes to draw too. Go to our Web site, westmilfordmessenger.com, to see our bonus five with Zack.
1. How did you get involved with soccer and the Relay?
I have always played soccer since I was little. I was on the freshman soccer team during the 2010-2011 school year and the JV team this past fall, for the 2011-2012 school year. However, I have started something new this year, Relay for Life. My friend asked me to join her team for the 2012 Highlander Relay for Life, which helps raise money for the American Cancer Society. I have never done it before, but its for a great cause and I thought, why not? Along with helping to raise funds for cancer research, I have made a new group of friends that are dedicated to this cause too. Ive had a great time so far and Im looking forward to the relay this June.
2. Who is your biggest inspiration?
My biggest inspiration happens to be a few people. My parents are always telling me to work hard and take opportunities that can help me reach my goals in life. Even when times are tough they are there for me and supporting me. Another inspiration is Derek Jeter. Although I dont play baseball anymore, I still regard him as one of the best role models there can be in the world of sports. He became a Yankee only through hard work and dedication, and hes always saying that you should strive for your goals.
3. Who is your favorite teacher and why?
My two favorite teachers of all time are Mr. Sheremeta from my Honors History class and Mr. Van Wingerdan from my mechanical drawing class. Mr. Sheremeta is a great teacher; his class was fun to be in and out of all of my classes, Ive retained the most information from his. Hes also a pretty cool guy. Mr. Van was always open to different ideas when I was in his mechanical drawing class. I hope to go into aeronautical engineering some day, designing the next military jet, and he always encouraged me to pursue different, more interesting side projects along with the required assignments. Also, hes a younger teacher and is easier to relate to. I think all guys in the high school can relate to that.
4. What is your favorite movie/book?
My favorite movie is Nacho Libre, with Jack Black. It is a really silly movie, but it is funny and my cousin and I have made it a tradition of watching it during our vacation every summer. My favorite book is titled, WAR by the journalist, Sebastian Jounger. It is about Joungers experience with a U.S. Army Airborne divisions 15-month deployment to Afghanistan. He documents the intense struggles our military goes through every day, fighting to preserve our freedom. This, in my opinion, is the biggest sacrifice any man could do.
5. Share something no one knows about you.
One thing not many people know about me is that if becoming an engineer doesnt work out, I would join the military. It is an honorable thing to do and Id be doing a great service for our country.
Zack sure has his priorities in order, and still has time for some fun! Great job. Do you know someone like Zack who should be featured here in Take Five? Send us an email at njoffice@strausnews.com telling us who and why.
Bonus Five 6. What would most people be surprised to know about Relay for Life?
A surprising fact about West Milfords Relay for life is that it raises the most funds out of all the relays in our area. Personally, I am very proud to be apart of that.
7. What are three things you would bring if you were stranded on a desert island?
If I were stranded on a desert island, I would bring food, fresh water, and a time machine so I could go back and prevent myself from getting stranded in the first place.
8 Share a favorite moment with your group/activity?
One of my favorite moments with my Relay team was at our meeting/Super Bowl party. Between watching the Giants crush the Patriots and sitting outside by the bonfire, we had so much fun. It was one of those times that Ill never forget.
9. What does being a Highlander mean to you?
To me, being a Highlander means having that Highlander spirit; fight for what you want and never give up on your goals.
10. What do you do when you are not involved with the Relay?
When Im not with my friends, Im either doing homework (unfortunately) or sports and other hobbies. I like working out in the gym after school, and when Im completely free, I like to draw, like I did in Mr. Vans class. Ive been drawing and doodling since before I can remember.