I Had an Ideal Boyhood

Reflections of an Old Boy…

In 2021, Drake Leder ('25) entered Western in 5th grade with his brothers in lower school, Luke and Thad. After two years, the boys had to leave, but then returned in October 2024. Drake is competitive and athletic. He writes and speaks well, he is detailed and articulate. Drake's memories Western, below, inspired Mr. Callahan's to comment that "Drake has spoken like a true bare-foot boy."

Drake grabs a flag for Shell in Capture the Flag last year, his brother Luke alongside

Here's Drake...Western provided me with the ideal boyhood. I could explore, build a fort, play tackle football, find a stick, go on campouts, build tree houses, wrestle, catch squirrels, roll my buddies down hills in a tire, and have strong masculine mentorship along the way. After my four years at Western, I made lifetime friends who are loyal, clever, and most importantly, motivate me to be better in my athletics and faith.

I learned many things at Western. Yes, I did learn "y=mx+b" and about the feats of Leonidas at the Battle of Thermopylae, but I also learned life-lessons that certainly are not taught at other schools. I learned to have respectful eye-contact and a strong grip when shaking someone’s hand. I learned through house games that a good team can be unstoppable, and many other things. I am thankful for Western, it was perfect for me.

Drake (center) with 2025 classmates at the championship football game in November at Strake Jesuit