Cyber Teams Dominate Maryland State Cyber Patriot Awards

The results are in, and once again, Loyola Blakefield’s Cyber Science Initiative (LBCSI) teams have proven their exceptional talent in the 17th season of the Air Force Association’s CyberPatriot Competition, the nation’s largest youth cyber defense program. This year’s state awards showcase an impressive sweep for LBCSI in both the middle and high school divisions, further cementing Loyola Blakefield’s legacy of excellence in cybersecurity education.

 

Competing in a challenging field where students defend operating systems and networks from vulnerabilities and adversaries, the high school teams excelled in the Platinum Division—the competition’s most advanced level. LBCSI extended their first-place streak to a remarkable 12 consecutive years.

 

“Year after year, our students rise to the occasion, mastering complex skills that prepare them for real-world challenges in cybersecurity,” said Steve Morrill, LBCSI Program Director. “This year’s results are a testament to their dedication and teamwork. I couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve achieved.”

 

The journey isn’t over yet! With the semifinal round approaching in late January, the teams are sharpening their skills as they aim for the coveted National Finals in March, where the top 12 high school teams and top 3 middle school teams will compete for the championship.

 

 

High School Platinum Division:

 

1st Place:
Alex Bowie ’25
Will Coyne ’25
Spencer Davis ’25
Nick Fanto ’25
Dimitri Kokkinakos ’25
Ryan Martin ’28

 

2nd Place:
Patrick Dishon ’26
Connor Counselman ’26
Matthew Kocorowski ’26
Billy Nicholson ’26
Casey Nazelrod ’25
Emmett Omron ’25

 

3rd Place:
Theo Hembling ’26
Jaron Javillo ’26
Jax Murray ’26
JT Nachtman ’26
Andrew Spencer ’26
Ryan Wachter ’26

 

 

1st Place:
Ethan Balubar ’29
Will Mascari ’29
Alex Nicolaidis ’29
Ethan Rohrbach ’30
Austin Pitarra ’29
John Talley ’30

 

2nd Place:
Joey Acchione ’29
Will Barker ’29
Chris Bever ’29
Asher Corbin ’29
Griffin Hamel ’29
Josh Navari ’29

 

3rd Place:
Jack Bandzwolek ’31
Thomas Desi ’30
Wyatt Doby ’31
Jacob Hart ’30
Lucas Graham ’31
Caleb Yates ’31