GreatNews.Life Student Voices: Marquette Catholic experiences it all

What’s recently happened?

In the blink of an eye, February has come to a close. The short month was filled with lots of snow resulting in delays and Virtual Learning Days (VLD) for Marquette Catholic High School (MQT). Students and staff celebrated Valentine’s Day with a red and pink themed dress down day, where students showed out in red and pink.  

Most recently in sports, the MQT Girls Basketball team made their postseason run. The Marquette Catholic Blazers cleared Sectional 49 and advanced to Regionals of the state tournament, where they came away with another victory against Tri-County High School. The Blazers arrived at La Porte High School to face North Miami for an early afternoon game, where they advanced to the Semi-state championship game.

In a tight battle with Lafayette Central Catholic, the Blazers fought extremely hard. Sadly, the Blazers fell just three points short with a score of 53-50 in overtime. As the last buzzer sounded, the senior Blazers walked off a high school basketball court for the last time. Soaking it all in, many looked around as the realization set in. 

The Blazer student section showed out in their white out theme. They cheered, screamed, sang, laughed, clapped, and some even cried for their fellow classmates. This was one of the largest and loudest student sections MQT has ever seen at a sporting event. 

They will be remembered for their hard work, dedication, enthusiasm, and love for their sport.

What’s coming up?

The Lent season in the Catholic calendar is upon those who celebrate. In this prayerful season, campus ministry has arranged for prayer groups to be held during lunch and before school on select days. Students have the opportunity to grow in their own faith together. 

To start the Lent season, MQT will hold an Ash Wednesday Service in the afternoon. Parishioners, students, and staff will gather to mark the start of the season. 

MQT Performing Arts Department is excited to share their annual Spring Musical: Into the Woods. The department will be performing for two weekends in March. They have worked hard to put together a cohesive, entertaining musical for the audience. Students from all grade levels are involved. 

The MQT Boys Basketball team will take the court against Kouts High School in Sectional 49 hosted by Kouts High School. 

Spring sports have begun to kick off. The Track and Field, Boys Baseball, Girls Softball, Boys Golf, and Girls Tennis teams have all been in the weight room and the gym practicing for the upcoming season. Additionally, callout meetings and informational meetings regarding the spring sports have been held or scheduled for most of the teams.

The Blazer Spirit Crew have been working hard to start putting together details regarding Prom 2025. The students are very excited to see how everything comes together in May. 

Staff spotlight:

Anne Larkin is a Social Studies and Theology teacher at MQT. Larkin teaches World History, Psychology, and Philosophy in the Social Studies department. She also teaches Social Justice and World Religions in the Theology department.

Larkin went to St. Mary’s College and majored in political science and philosophy. She also attended Indiana University of South Bend and majored in secondary education with a minor in History and sociology.

“I love philosophy, psychology, and all things spiritual. I tend to read and listen to podcasts about those subjects. I have an awesome group of women that I work out with every Saturday morning. They are an inspiration to me and I seek out their wisdom,” Larkin said.  

Larkin has a husband who works in Chicago as well as four children. Two of her children are currently attending MQT, while the two older children have graduated from MQT. 

“I began teaching in 2001, but I had a number of breaks during the years since because I was needed at home. My oldest son is on the Autism spectrum. Now that my children are older, I am enjoying being back full time in the classroom,” Larkin said.

Larkin has also been involved with the newest club and sport at MQT in swimming. 

“I was the moderator of the swim team this year. Outside of school, I have taught yoga for a number of years. I love biking and traveling. I love to read and spend time on the beach,” Larkin said. 

Her passions reflect that of her classes. In each of her classes, one can see the passion and energy she puts behind planning each one so that the students are engaged and actively learning the materials.

“I would describe myself as a person that is led by Jesus’ teachings. I try to see my students as unique individuals and understand where they are coming from. I am not perfect, but this is my goal everyday,” Larkin said. 

Larkin is an insightful woman. In each class, she applies real world examples that are easy to understand and relate to.

“Teaching is a very meaningful profession. I would advise any person that has a passion for education to go into it being able to adapt and change. Society changes quickly, but at the heart of it all is a beautiful child that wants to be seen, heard, and loved,” Larkin said.

Student spotlight:

Livia Balling is a senior at MQT who is an active member of the community.

“I am involved in volleyball, basketball, National Honors Society (NHS), and Peer Ministry at MQT. I also coach young athletes during my offseason,” Balling said.

Her hobbies include riding her bike along the beach, playing indoor and beach volleyball, basketball, spending time with family and friends, tanning at the beach, working out, and listening to music. Through her many activities and hobbies, Balling has learned a lot and has benefited immensely.

“These activities have allowed me to express leadership and commitment. Being a part of sports teams for all four years has not only improved my athleticism, but also my life skills. It has allowed me to find confidence in myself and to recognize that failure is okay,” Balling said.

Sports have taught her the importance of togetherness and community. They have given her relationships, memories, and life advice. 

NHS has allowed Balling to take on more responsibility and help others in the community. Peer Ministry has strengthened her faith journey and provided her with opportunities to lead others to Christ. 

“I would describe myself as someone who is loving and caring. I cherish my relationships with God and others as someone with toughness and a determined mindset behind the sweet smile,” said Balling. 

Balling values her family as well. She has a twin sister, older brother, mother and father. She values her Catholic upbringing and hopes to be successful in a career of her choosing that reflects her love. Balling’s faith has helped lead her through her father’s diagnosis of cancer. She leaned on God and her family to help navigate her through the experience. She realized life is how we overcome obstacles. 

“Try your best in all that you do and never be scared of failure. Each day is another opportunity for you to wake up, try again and better yourself. You will experience trials and challenges in life but you have the choice to use those times to strengthen yourself. It’s important to surround yourself with people that make you a better person. Keep strong faith in yourself and God. Have patience throughout this journey of life,” said Balling. 

Balling plans to attend Concord University to play collegiate volleyball, majoring in Biology and minoring in health sciences to become a Speech Pathologist.