The Sentinel

Volleyball milestone reached, SJO's McDonald reaches the 400th match win

Members of the St. Joseph-Ogden volleyball program pose for a group photo with head coach Abby McDonald after her 400th win on Monday. The milestone came after the Spartans defeated Hoopeston Area at home in two sets, 25-13, 25-22. Under McDonald's leadership the program has also won nine regional titles, two sectional sectional plaques, and two state trophies, one in 2016 and another three years later in 2019.

Modest about her accomplishment, she said the credit goes to all the players who contributed to the program's success. "Honestly, it's just a number on paper. What I hope it does is inspire them to continue the tradition that not only they have been a part of - this is going to age me - but also the hundreds of girls before them."

Now in her 18th year with SJO, 16 as head coach, with the exception of the abbreviated 2021 season, her teams have posted 20-plus wins every year. SJO is eight wins away from another 20-win season heading into Wednesday night's non-conference home match against the Danville Vikings.

Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks

Point - Spartans!

St. Joseph-Ogden's Anna Wentzloff, Alex Frerichs, Hannah Umbarger and Shayne Immke celebrate a point for the Spartans with head coach Abby McDonald during game three of their Class 2A supersectional match against Chicago Christian...

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Quick tips on how to reduce your stress for your next dental appointment

Photo: oswaldoruiz/Pixabay

NAPSI - If you experience anxiety and stress while visiting your dentist, you're not alone. For many people, the idea of going to the dentist stirs up anxiety; however, it's so important to combat those thoughts to keep your smile strong and healthy. To help, here are four tips so you can remain calm while your teeth receive care:

Talk to your dentist: Be open about your anxieties and stress before the appointment so the dentist can ease your mind. If you want to know what's happening during the appointment, they can explain the procedure to you. If you would rather not know, your dentist can tell you when to close your eyes or distract yourself. Work on a signal with your dentist for instance, if you raise your hand during your appointment, it could mean you need a break, or something hurts. Don't be afraid to communicate what you need for a successful trip to the dentist's chair.

Use tools to distract yourself: If the tools or sounds of the dental machines cause you anxiety, find ways to busy yourself. You can bring headphones to listen to your favorite music or podcast while you lounge in the dentist's chair. Objects such as stress balls or fidget spinners are also a great way to keep busy.

Practice mindfulness: To keep your mind off your dentist's appointment, you can practice mindfulness both before and during. Focus on breathing while you're in the waiting room or in the dentist's chair with slow, deep breaths. Relax all the muscles you can, one at a time, with a body scan. Start from your feet all the way up to your neck and shoulders while you're reclined for your appointment.

Bring a friend: Do not feel embarrassed or shy to ask for support! If you have a trusted friend or family member who makes you feel safe, see if they can help you in facing your fear of the dentist. While these tips may not get rid of dental anxiety completely, they are a great place to start so any patient can conquer any dentist appointment.

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