Congratulations 69th Annual Awards Recipients!
Scroll to the bottom of the page to see a slideshow of photos from the event.
High School Student-Athlete and Adult Awards
|
|
Male High School Student-Athlete of the Year
The Merrill Hoover Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Optimist Club of Arlington Jonathan Malatesta Jon has been a captain on the Washington-Liberty lacrosse team since he was a sophomore. He led by example, never complaining while pushing himself to compete at the highest level to show his teammates that success can be found through hard work and effort. He was always encouraging of those around him to ensure the whole team continued to elevate their game. His character was exceptional – he looked his coaches in the eyes, spoke clearly and directly to them, and he thanked the referees after every game. He was a true all-around leader and the heart and soul of the Generals’ lacrosse team. His junior year, Jon received first team All-District honors as a midfielder. Jon was also a three-year varsity player on the Washington-Liberty football team at both wide receiver and cornerback. His senior year, he helped lead the team to an undefeated regular season and earned recognition as first team All-Region and second team All-State. Jon also played basketball for four seasons. Outside of his sporting accomplishments, Jon completed a wide variety of service hours through his church, a local food bank, Arlington County Youth Lacrosse, and the Boy Scouts of America. He recently received his Eagle Scout Award. Jon will soon begin serving our country at the United States Naval Academy. |
|
Baseball Sportsman of the Year
The George McQuinn Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Arlington Cal Ripken Babe Ruth, Arlington Little League, and Arlington Senior Babe Ruth Jack Keane Washington-Liberty baseball coach Kevin Healy described Jack in just two words—phenomenal teammate. Last year, Jack broke his hamate bone in the team’s second game of the season, precluding him from hitting all season. Undeterred, Jack approached Coach Healy and let him know that he could still pitch. He would wince on almost every throw back to him, but gutted his way to several important wins for the team. Jack returned to the batter’s box this year and batted .400 through the first seven games, with two doubles and a home run. Off the diamond, Jack volunteered with Washington-Liberty’s Ambassador Club, helping new students, especially military kids, get acclimated to their new school when they transfer in. This fall, Jack will attend and play baseball at Bucknell University. |
|
Basketball Sportswoman of the Year
The Candice Brown Trophy Sponsored by: Fran Vitt Julia Kelly A four-year varsity starter at Washington-Liberty, Julia was a key contributor to the team’s success, both on and off the court. In her four-year career, Julia and the class of 2025 took the Generals from a three-win season as freshmen to a seventeen-win team as seniors. Her senior season, Julia scored 199 points, shot 31 percent from the three-point line, and was named second-team All-District. Off the court, Julia was a founder of the non-profit organization Triumph CF, raising money and awareness for Cystic Fibrosis, while also interning at Children’s National Hospital. This fall, Julia will be attending Wake Forest University. |
|
Basketball Sportsman of the Year
The John and Ed Hummer Trophy Sponsored by: Beyond the Hoop, Inc. Brennan Pilot As a three-year varsity player and two-year team captain, Brennan has been a cornerstone of the Yorktown basketball program, shaping the culture of the team through his leadership, work ethic, and commitment to excellence. As a senior, Brennan was a consistent force who earned first team All-Northern Region and Liberty District Player of the Year honors after leading the Patriots to the most wins in school history during the 2024-2025 season. Coach Joe Keimig had this to say about Brennan, “For the past three years, he has been an intricate part of our success, helping establish a winning culture that will leave a lasting legacy on our program for years to come.” Off the court, Brennan was a member of the Arlington County Teen Network Board and a supply drive organizer for Lost Dog & Cat Rescue. Brennan will be attending James Madison University this fall. |
|
Challenger Sportsman of the Year
The Ernest E. Hively, Jr./Andrew Walsh Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Jim and Janet Walsh Matthew Hatfield Matthew began playing baseball in the Arlington Little League Challengers League in 2011. Although it took some time for Matthew to adjust to the presence of teammates and coaches, he eventually learned to trust those coaches and to trust his own abilities. Over the years Matthew also has participated in the Arlington adaptive swimming program, Top Soccer, and numerous Shriver Program Special Olympics teams, including soccer, track, and basketball. Last year, Matthew was selected by his teachers to represent the Shriver Program at the presentation of the Special Olympics Unified Schools Banner, recognizing the Shriver Program as a National Unified Champion School. Not only has participating in sports had a great impact on Matthew, he, in turn, serves as a role model for others, showing how transforming sports can be in one’s life. Matthew is currently enrolled at the Arlington Career Center's Program for Employment Preparedness. |
|
Cheer Sportswoman of the Year
The Ray Michael Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Dan Kain Trophies Mary Frances Dempsey As a member of the Yorktown High School Fall Varsity Cheer Team, Mary Frances was recognized as an All-American athlete three times, was named first team All-District for Northern Virginia, and earned the National Cheerleaders Association Leadership Plaque. Mary Frances also was very active in the volunteer community. Among other endeavors, she spearheaded a campaign to address and rectify gender bias in the Arlington Public School dress code policy. As a member of the County’s Teen Network Board, Mary Frances dedicated more than 800 hours, helping to organize more than 80 service projects. She accepted leadership roles on the Board, which included major public speaking engagements at county events. |
|
Crew Sportswoman of the Year
The William and Frank Havens Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Casual Adventure Sasha Klein Sasha is a quiet but forceful leader, showing up every day and giving her best, regardless of weather conditions or other challenges. She became a leader on the Washington-Liberty team as a result of her steadfast commitment to always doing the right thing. Sasha is not one to call out her teammates, but is always there to help, to encourage, or to lead by example. This winter she suffered a significant knee injury, but still showed up to every practice determined to find ways to modify the workouts so she could participate. Sasha earned three varsity crew letters. She rowed in the prestigious Stotesbury Cup Regatta. And her boat took 10th place in the 2024 Virginia State Championships. When not on the water, Sasha volunteered as a camp counselor for underprivileged children and as a religious education teacher every Sunday morning. Sasha will attend the University of Michigan this fall. |
|
Crew Sportsman of the Year
The Charlie Butt, Jr. Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: The Better Sports Club Jude Roggen Jude was a member of the Washington-Liberty crew program for five years, first rowing as an eighth-grader. He earned three varsity letters, led his boat to the Stotesbury Cup finals, and finished second in the Washington-Liberty Crew Triathlon. While he impressed his coaches with his rowing prowess, they were even more impressed with his character and commitment. Coach Kara McPhillips relayed this, “Jude holds the highest standards for himself. He asks questions and constantly seeks feedback on how to improve, not just as an athlete but as a person.” When not in the boat, Jude volunteered with Treats for Our Troops, coordinating the collection and shipment of more than 3,000 pounds of candy to deployed soldiers. He also volunteered with Challengers basketball, facilitating games for children with physical and cognitive disabilities. Jude will attend the University of Virginia this fall. |
|
Cross Country Sportswoman of the Year
The Anne Viviani Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Columbia Gardens Cemetery Alba Edsall A four-year member of Washington-Liberty’s varsity cross country team, Alba was a two-year team captain. As a senior this past fall, she led the Generals cross country team to their first Arlington County championship title in six years. Alba was her team’s top finisher, placing second in the county race. At the district championship, Alba was once again the team’s highest finisher, placing 13th and helping the team qualify for the regional championship. At the end of the season, she received the team MVP award. When not running around the countryside, Alba is a National Hispanic Recognition Scholar and president of Washington-Liberty’s Future Doctors Club. This year, Alba raised $450 for Doctors Without Borders at the Holiday Bazaar, and logged more than 60 volunteering hours at Medstar Georgetown University Hospital. |
|
Cross Country Sportsman of the Year
The Michael A. Wardian Trophy Sponsored by: Roger and Phyllis O'Dell Emmett Engelhardt Coach John Bacon was succinct in describing Emmett’s qualities in the areas of character and leadership — leads by example, never misses practice or meets, and puts team scoring over personal accomplishments. Emmett does the little things, such as running on winter mornings during the off-season. All this hard work paid dividends as Emmett had an outstanding 2024 season: Arlington County and Liberty District champion, named first team All-District and honorable mention All-Met by The Washington Post. When not running, Emmett partnered with Culpepper Gardens, an Arlington low-income senior living facility, coordinating drives for food and household goods, and helping with set up and break down for special events. Emmett was also a two-year volunteer basketball coach for a fourth- and fifth-grade Arlington County girls basketball team. Emmett will be attending college and continuing his competitive running career at American University this fall. |
|
Dance Sportsperson of the Year
The Emily Carnes Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: The Better Sports Club Paula Carmela Lopez-Landeo Paula has been a Washington-Liberty Varsity Dance Team member since 2021 and served as the 2024-2025 team captain. She is recognized for her discipline, musicality, and ability to lead choreography with energy and precision. A dedicated dance team member, she was always the first to arrive and the last to leave, and was recognized as the Most Valuable Player of the Washington-Liberty Dance team this past season. When not dancing, or playing softball, or running track, Paula is a Climate Leadership Fellow who has initiated meaningful sustainability efforts, including implementing a cafeteria composting system and leading clothing drives. She runs two small baking businesses: Sweet Treats, specializing in Latin-infused pastries; and PAW-libration, a dog treat bakery. Paula will attend Virginia Tech this fall. |
Photo credit: Dan Glass
|
Field Hockey Sportswoman of the Year
The J. Elwood Clements Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: The Arlington County Sheriff's Office Madeline (Madi) Sullivan In 2021, when freshman Madi walked onto the Bishop O’Connell field for the first time, field hockey was known as a “no cut” team to earn a gym credit. In 2024, when senior Captain Madi walked off the field for the last time, she had led O’Connell to a Washington Catholic Athletic Conference championship game, as well as to the finals of the Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association state championship. Madi’s many individual honors include being named first-team All-Conference, first-team All-State, first-team Washington Post All-Met, and recognition as one of the top 20 players in the Mid-Atlantic Region by the National Field Hockey Coaches Association. Madi also played a large role in growing the sport of field hockey in Arlington, helping to develop and run the local Arlington Field Hockey recreational league. Madi’s dedication and character earned her the “Spirit of O’Connell” Athletic Award Scholarship that recognizes a student who exemplifies personal humility, empathy, agility, responsibility, and tenacity (HEART). Madi will be attending Davidson College this fall, and playing Division 1 field hockey. |
|
Football Sportsman of the Year
The Eric Sievers Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Blankingship & Keith, P.C. Ian Crowley Ian served as team captain this past season and played an instrumental role in leading the Washington-Liberty football team to its most successful season in school history. Under his leadership the team achieved its first undefeated regular season since 1959 and finished with 12 wins. Ian’s presence unified the team, as his relentless work ethic, fierce competitiveness, and leadership set the tone for everyone around him. Ian was dominant on the field. He played both defensive end and wide receiver. Defensively, he racked up 71 tackles, 21 of them for a loss, and even scored a defensive touchdown. Offensively, Ian added 16 receptions for 240 yards and 2 touchdowns. His performance earned him first-team All-District honors at defensive end, as well as first team All-Region and second team All-State as a defensive utility player. Off the field, Ian has been involved in the Arlington community helping food organizations and participating in trash cleanup events. |
|
Golf Sportswoman of the Year
The Pam Murray Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Washington Golf & Country Club Women’s Golf Association Malia Perry Washington-Liberty Golf Coach Michael Wilkis told us this about Malia, “From the very first practice, Malia’s easy and natural swing was obvious, but her smile, positive attitude and interactions with her teammates is something I wish I could transfer to all my golfers.” Malia’s calmness and instincts always put her a step ahead of her opponents and helped her earn a spot on the Generals’ District champion, regional runner-up, and states teams, as well as qualifying her for the Girls 4A Zone tournament. While Malia may be competing against another golfer, she is always friendly and supportive, providing an excellent example of who Malia is as a person. Malia also was active in other school activities, serving as a lobbyist with the Arlington chapter of Team ENOUGH, a youth-led initiative to end gun violence in America. She also was a member of the Theater and American Sign Language clubs. Malia will be attending Holy Cross this fall. |
|
Golf Sportsman of the Year
The Henry Kerfoot Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Buck & Associates, Inc. James Hall James was a starter for the Washington-Liberty golf team for all three years he spent at the school. He was a key part of this past season’s district champion golf team, regional runner-up team, and state team. Year after year, James has been able to reduce his scoring average and handicap, shaving one or two strokes off his average each year, a difficult endeavor. Off the golf course, James served as the co-head coach of the Flying Squirrels fourth grade basketball team, volunteered on Saturday mornings with a small group to remove weeds and other invasive plants at Tuckahoe Park, and assisted the head golf pro at the Army Navy Country Club, teaching golfing fundamentals to junior golfers. |
|
Gymnastics Sportswoman of the Year
The Joe D’Emidio Trophy Sponsored by: Arlington Aerials Parents Association Severine Reid Severine has grown as a leader over the past four years. On the Arlington YMCA Gymnastics team, she has gained respect from her teammates, coaches, judges, and even from her opponents due to her positive attitude and work ethic. Her maturity and self-awareness made her a role model to others and an inspiration to younger gymnasts. Severine also excelled in competition as a YMCA National Champion in each of the last three years. She also gives back to the sport, mentoring young gymnasts on technique, strength, and discipline. Severine will attend Virginia Commonwealth University this fall. |
|
Ice Hockey Sportsperson of the Year
The Tom Newman Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Bill Walsh Joel Vizard Four years ago, none of the Washington-Liberty ice hockey coaches would have predicted that Joel would captain what was arguably the best team in Washington-Liberty ice hockey history. As a freshman, it was clear that Joel had great hockey sense, but he was raw and undisciplined. In each subsequent year of high school, however, Joel matured, both on and off the ice. Joel’s locker room presence cannot be overstated. His pregame, in-game, and post-game speeches always hit the right note and focused on the elements that would lead the team to success. The Generals achieved the ultimate success this past year, winning the Capital Scholastic League Championship. Joel’s play on the ice also was key to that championship, and he was recognized as a Capital Scholastic League All-Star and a Washington Post Honorable Mention All-Met. Off the ice, Joel was a member of Best Buddies and served as President of Sustainable Generals, a club that focused on clean and renewable energy projects. Joel will attend Virginia Tech this fall. |
|
Lacrosse Sportswoman of the Year
The Jamie Reynolds Trophy Sponsored by: Columbia Gardens Cemetery Corinne Rigoli As a freshman, Corinne was a key player who contributed to Yorktown’s success in winning its first ever Liberty District title, followed soon after by a runner-up finish at regionals, and then the team’s first ever state title. As a junior in 2024, she started every game as a midfielder while helping lead the Patriots to their second state title in three years. Her accolades in her junior year included being named first team All-District, District Player of the Year, first team All-Region, first team All-State, and a Washington Post first team All-Met. Impressive accomplishments, but Coach Keimig was more interested in citing Corinne’s character, conveying that Corrine does what’s right when no one is watching. She leads by example, motivating her teammates through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to team success. Off the lacrosse field, Corinne has become a certified Emergency Medical Technician. She will be focusing and majoring in biology and pre-med at the University of Chicago this fall. |
|
Lacrosse Sportsman of the Year
The Jon Reynolds Trophy Sponsored by: Judge George Varoutsos Max Thompson Throughout his high school lacrosse career, Max has been a stalwart member of the Wakefield team. The Wakefield coaches considered Max their best player not just for his play, but even more importantly because of how he cares about his teammates and coaches. Max served as team captain for three years. Arguably the best lacrosse player Wakefield has ever seen, his fellow players and the coaches believe that his leadership and play were key factors in taking Wakefield lacrosse to a level it had never seen before. As a junior, Max was named to the All-District second team. Off the playing field, Max was selected to attend the Virginia Space Coast Summer Residential Academy at NASA’s Wallops Island Flight Facility, where he presented his project to a panel of NASA experts, and was recognized by Virginia Senator John Warner for his achievement. Max also volunteered at an after school elementary school program, helping students there with STEM projects, homework, and life skills. |
|
Rifle Sportsperson of the Year
The Charlie Viars Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Sgt. Dorothy M. Doyle American Legion Post 139 Jimmy Mazel James, or Jimmy as his friends and coaches know him, was destined to be part of the Wakefield Rifle Team, following in the footsteps of his older brother and sister. He is a four-year varsity rifle athlete. As a senior, Jimmy served as co-captain and was the high scorer for the team, which allowed the Warriors to set a new school record. Jimmy’s dedication also helped the Warriors to a third-place finish in the East Conference, and earned him a first-team East Conference All-Metro Award. Jimmy did this while also balancing his many other commitments, including certifying as an Emergency Medical Technician, swimming on the Wakefield varsity swim team, and working on his Eagle Scout rank. As part of his Eagle Scout project, he is working on the installation of a statue and bench at his church. Jimmy will attend George Mason University this fall. |
|
Soccer Sportswoman of the Year
The John “Mac” McLaughlin Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Arlington Soccer Association Danicka Miller Washington-Liberty girls soccer coach Mike Woods expressed that Danicka is without question the leader of the Generals’ soccer team. For example, Danicka took the initiative and created small groups or “families” consisting of junior varsity and varsity players to help bridge the gaps between the two teams, creating a support system for the younger players. Regarding Danicka on the soccer pitch, Coach Woods described the four-year varsity starter as the perfect example of a student-athlete that does things the right way and excels at everything. As a junior in 2024, Danicka was selected first team All-District, first team All-Region, second team All-State, and The Washington Post All-Met first team. When not on the pitch, Danicka is a volunteer at the Arlington Food Assistance Center, serves as a soccer trainer for young girls, and is a Best Buddies Friendship Walk volunteer. Danicka will be attending college and playing soccer at Harvard University this fall. |
|
Soccer Sportsman of the Year
The George Towner, Jr. Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Arlington Soccer Association Quinn Belt Yorktown Coach Carlos Aranda described Quinn as a natural leader who is always smiling, and someone who, win or lose, comes up with a positive note about the game. More importantly, when Coach Aranda has a comment about a specific play or decision Quinn makes during a game, Quinn always has the same answer, “Yes, coach, I got it.” Quinn was, simply put, a fantastic player to be around. His excellent play at fullback and winger was noticed by opposing coaches, as he earned first team All-District and All-Region honors as a junior. When not playing soccer, Quinn served as co-president of “Our Minds Matter,” a club working toward the day when no teen dies by suicide. He has also been a Peer Buddy in the Best Buddies program. Quinn will be attending college and playing soccer at the University of Massachusetts Amherst this fall. |
|
Softball Sportswoman of the Year
The Kristy Burch Bergmann Trophy Sponsored by: Arlington Girls Softball Association Sophia Giambalvo Sophia has been in the Yorktown softball program for five years, starting as an eighth-grader on the junior varsity. Coach Heather Sutphin remembers running a drill with the JV players. The drill was new to Sophia and she struggled with it. After practice, she approached Coach Sutphin and asked what she could do on her own time to improve her skills. Coach Sutphin knew then that Sophia was going to be an impact player. Sophia went on to spend four years as the varsity’s starting centerfielder. A solid .300 hitter, Sophia’s fielding impressed coaches, opponents, and fans the most. She took pride in her defense and worked hard at it, earning second team All-District honors as an outfielder. Off the field, Sophia volunteered with the Arlington Food Assistance Center. She also helped organize Yorktown Softball’s Breast Cancer Awareness events, raising funds to enable women in Arlington to get proper breast health care through the Arlington Free Clinic. Sophia will be attending college and playing softball at Muhlenberg College this fall. |
|
Swim & Dive Sportswoman of the Year
The Shelley Mann Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Mary Schade Nora Sherman Nora is graduating as the most decorated swimmer in Yorktown High School history, with four district championships, four regional championships, and three state championships, along with one state runner-up finish. Nora was a major contributor and point scorer at all of the championship meets. The Yorktown girls swim team is currently ranked among the top ten high school teams nationally, and Nora’s scoring contributions and presence were essential to that success. She made the All-Liberty District Team and All-Northern Region Team three times, and the All-State team twice. In addition, Nora was a Washington Post All-Met honorable mention selection in 2023 and 2024. When not in the pool, Nora is an accomplished violinist, playing in the Yorktown Chamber Orchestra for all four years of high school. Nora also volunteered during several political campaigns. She canvassed door-to-door, staffed phone banks, and distributed campaign materials to help increase voter turnout during congressional and presidential elections. |
|
Swim & Dive Sportsman of the Year
The Tom Dolan Trophy Sponsored by: Cardinal Construction & Management Timothy Adye Timmy has been a top performer for four years on the Bishop O’Connell High School swim and dive team, earning a reputation as one of the program’s top performers. He is the current school record holder in the 400 freestyle relay and helped set the NoVA Catholic Invitational meet record in the same event in both 2024 and 2025. Also in 2025, Timmy was recognized as the Bishop O’Connell Swim and Dive Most Valuable Player. Timmy qualified for and swam at the Virginia State Championships in 2022, 2023, and 2024, contributing valuable points for O’Connell each year. Out of the pool, Timmy is a two-time peer mentor for O’Connell’s Expanded Services Program, where students are paired with peers who have intellectual or developmental disabilities. A strong advocate for Special Olympics, Timmy served as a captain for one of the swim-a-thon teams benefiting Special Olympics Area 26. |
|
Tennis Sportswoman of the Year
The Donna Floyd Fales Trophy Sponsored by: Kevin Jones Ines Kapur Washington-Liberty coaches Ann Kast and Deborah Pfirrmann cinched this award for their player with their first sentence on the nomination form, “Thanks for giving us the opportunity to share about Ines.” They shared that Ines’s work ethic and enthusiasm were contagious and inspiring—the first to practice and always eager to help her teammates achieve their best in the classroom and on the court. During her four years on the team, Ines contributed in both singles and doubles, and several times won the deciding match to clinch a team victory. She competed and won in the #4 to #6 spots at singles and the #2 and #3 spots in doubles, and consistently posted a 50 percent or better win-loss record. When not on the court, Ines volunteered with the Animal Welfare League of Arlington. Ines will be attending Virginia Tech this fall. |
|
Tennis Sportsman of the Year
|
|
Track and Field Sportswoman of the Year
The John Randolph Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Stuart Shelton Ellen Malloy Coach Emily Stewart described Ellen as an absolute joy to coach. Ellen led warmup and training drills daily, teaching these skills to new runners. She worked extremely hard to improve her running and competitive racing. Her drive to be successful became contagious and other runners on the Yorktown team followed her lead. Ellen reaped the benefits of her hard work, qualifying for state competitions in 2023, 2024, and 2025, as well as being part of relay teams that qualified for states for four straight years, 2022 to 2025. Off the track, Ellen volunteered at an Affordable Housing Center Daycare, helping children with reading and math while organizing activities and supervising groups of young learners. She also served as historian for the Spanish Honor Society where she photographed and advertised sales of Pulsera bracelets to fund education in South America. Ellen will be attending the University of Virginia this fall. |
|
Track and Field Sportsman of the Year
The Peter Weilenmann Trophy Sponsored by: The Better Sports Club Reid Dalley Reid has been an outstanding performer for Yorktown’s track teams over the past four years. His mantra is consistency and how that leads to success in running and racing. Reid finished fourth in the 1,600-meter race at the Indoor Track State Championship meet. He is disciplined, thorough, and self-motivated. The other athletes marvel at how meticulously he completes his workouts and does so with ease. Reid not only supports his teammates during their events, but also congratulates his opponents after competition. Reid volunteered at the Clothesline for Arlington Kids, where he collected, sorted, laundered, and folded gently used clothing and prepared it for distribution to low-income school-aged children. Reid will be attending college and running at Emory University this fall. |
|
Ultimate Disc Sportsperson of the Year
Girl Matching Division The Jenny Fey Trophy Sponsored by: Youth Ultimate League of Arlington Cora McCabe Cora McCabe has been captain of the Washington-Liberty High School Ultimate Frisbee team for three years and either assisted or scored the majority of the team goals. W-L coach Elise Jackson said, “Cora has embodied the Spirit of Ultimate and demonstrated grit on the field and compassion and support on the sideline.” She was a main handler and contributor when W-L participated in the High School National Invite in 2022. Cora played on DC area all-star teams that have competed at the USA Ultimate youth national championship tournaments over the past four years. She was invited to try out for the U20 US national team in 2024, a recognition that highlights she is one of the top youth Ultimate players in the country. She has helped grow youth Ultimate Frisbee in Arlington by coaching teams in the YULA middle school league, leading girl-matching clinics, and recruiting girl-matching players. She volunteers at the Animal Welfare League and Cake4Kids. Cora is an editor and contributor for W-L’s “Penman” literary magazine and member of W-L’s girls weightlifting club. Cora is a National Merit Scholar and will graduate with an IB diploma. She will attend Cornell University in the fall, where she plans to play Ultimate. |
|
Ultimate Disc Sportsperson of the Year
Open Division The Bernie Kirchner Trophy Sponsored by: Youth Ultimate League of Arlington Lincoln Eberly Lincoln Eberly is a multi-talented athlete, scholar, and musician. Lincoln has been one of the most skilled Ultimate Frisbee players in the four years he has played on the A team for Washington-Liberty. While serving as captain of the W-L Ultimate team for two years, he has worked extensively with younger teammates on their skills, game strategies, and team spirit. He also was a key contributor on DC area all-star teams that finished 4th in 2022 and 5th in 2023 at the USA Ultimate youth national championship tournaments. In his freshman year, Lincoln played a key role in W-L winning the Virginia State Championship and subsequent participation in the High School National Invite. In addition to Ultimate, he runs indoor track. Academically, he is a Math National Honors Society member and received a National Merit Commendation. As an Eagle scout, he accrued over 50 hours of community service and led other scouts in a project to mitigate polluted stormwater runoff in Arlington. Lincoln worked and volunteered at Phoenix Bikes for two summers. He also was the principal horn in the district 12 band this year, was selected to play second chair in the All-State Orchestra and was assistant drum major for the W-L band. Lincoln will attend Johns Hopkins University in the Fall. |
|
Volleyball Sportswoman of the Year
The Bill Finney Trophy Sponsored by: The Meiburger Law Firm, P.C. Jocelyn Pye Jocelyn was not just the best player, she was the heartbeat of the O’Connell volleyball team. Her relentless work ethic set the standard for those around her. Jocelyn consistently went above and beyond, putting in extra training hours and leading by example in every match. Her ability to perform under pressure was unmatched. In the most crucial moments, she remained composed and delivered outstanding performances that were key to the team’s success. Her strategic mindset, teamwork, and ability to elevate those around her have made a lasting impact on the Lady Knights’ volleyball program. Undoubtedly, Jocelyn’s 46 aces, 250 kills, and 154 digs were also helpful to team success. When not on the court, Jocelyn volunteered with Hand to Hunger, working to combat food insecurity by providing meals to those in need. She was also a member of the O’Connell Best Buddies Club. Jocelyn will be attending Johns Hopkins University in the fall. |
|
Wrestling Sportswoman of the Year
The Matthew T. Cluff Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Arlington Tigers Wrestling Club Cameron Millsapps CCameron is the definition of hard work, leadership, and resilience. She has not only mastered the sport of wrestling, but also set the standard for what it means to be a Wakefield Warrior. Cameron leads by example, always pushing herself and her teammates to be better – whether it’s by staying late after practice, mentoring young wrestlers, or bringing unmatched intensity to the mat. Cameron’s athletic achievements speak for themselves. Her undefeated season (28-0, with 26 pins) ended with a dominant 35-second pin in the Virginia High School League State Championship. Cameron’s journey from a new wrestler to a state champion in just two years was nothing short of remarkable. Cameron defined excellence and her impact on wrestling in Arlington will be felt for years to come. In the community, Cameron volunteered biweekly with local programs, helping to introduce younger athletes to the sport of wrestling and serving as a role model for future generations. Cameron will be attending Lehigh University this fall. |
|
Wrestling Sportsman of the Year
The Matthew T. Cluff Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Arlington Tigers Wrestling Club Daniel Kirsch Daniel may best represent the spirit of the awards being given out by the Better Sports Club. He was a four-year, three-sport athlete at Washington-Liberty. While better at football and lacrosse, he still wanted a winter sport. He chose wrestling, a sport in which the practices and matches involve some of the toughest physical tasks, such as conditioning, making weight, very early morning tournaments. It takes a lot of courage to wrestle, but Daniel came every day, ready to work with a great attitude and even smiling during conditioning. While perhaps not his most competitive sport, Daniel still put together a respectable senior season, with a 5-5 record as a backup wrestler at the 165 and 175 pound weight classes. Daniel still found time to serve on student council. He also volunteered at the local American Legion where he gave back to the community by mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, picking up trash, and serving food to veterans. |
Adult Awards
|
Arlington Outstanding Coach
The John Youngblood Memorial Award Sponsored by: Arlington Sports Hall of Fame Olivia Shipley In four seasons as the varsity head field hockey coach, Olivia has overseen the biggest transformation in an athletic program at Yorktown in recent memory. The team has won the state championship three of the last four years, two regional championships, and the district championship all four seasons. The region and state championships were the first in school history. From the very first day she joined the staff as a freshman assistant coach, it was clear she takes time to know the players well and makes field hockey fun to play. Coach Shipley strikes a delicate balance between pushing players to train in preparation for game speed and finding large portions of practice to physically and mentally recover by including both competitive and fun drills. For example, this fall she invited the Director of Student Activities to suit up as a goalie and had some field players do the same to create a fun, relaxed environment for the team. Remarkably, this fun event was during the state playoff run – a time when most coaches become super focused and would never think of giving up 30 minutes of practice time to simply goof around. What Coach Shipley understands is, at the state level where all teams are extremely talented, culture translates to the scoreboard every bit as much as scheme and technique. The Better Sports Club is proud to recognize Coach Shipley for all she has done to support her student-athletes and field hockey in Arlington. |
|
|
Arlington Outstanding Coach
The John Glover Memorial Award Sponsored by: Arlington Sports Hall of Fame John Bacon John has been coaching at Washington-Liberty High School for seven years, the last five years as the head coach of the cross country, indoor track, and outdoor track teams. This past season, Washington-Liberty’s girls’ team became the first Arlington team to win an Indoor Track Regional Championship. John leads his teams by example, modeling appropriate behavior on and off the track and cross country courses. He often explains why it is important to exhibit sportsmanlike behavior with his “grandma” speech, which has become a staple of his premeet team talks. Coach Bacon sets his sights each season on championship wins, but reminds his players that enjoying the sport and working hard are the most important aspects of the season. He insists on cross country being a no-cut sport so that as many students as possible can benefit from a team experience. Coach Bacon has competed in numerous full marathons, including the Boston Marathon. He understands the importance of training hard, setting personal goals, and enjoying the sport. He instills this same attitude in his athletes and this helps the team to find great success. The Better Sports Club is proud to recognize Coach Bacon for all he has done to support his runners and his school community. |
|
|
Arlington Sportsperson of the Year
The Jim Allen Memorial Award Sponsored by: The Better Sports Club Mike Murray Mike Murray is a 1982 graduate of W-L high school where he was the varsity team captain for both football and baseball. After graduating from George Mason University, Mike became a high school social studies teacher and varsity baseball coach in Arlington County from 1988 – 2013, spending time coaching at each of the three public high schools. Mike, who is proficient in Spanish, worked for Major League Baseball International – Latin America – for 10 years as an instructor, traveling through much of Latin America. In addition, Mike worked as a certified trainer for the Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA), presenting PCA workshops around the US and Latin America. In 2005, Mike was recognized by the International Sports Institute as one of nine coaches nationwide for his exceptional work in promoting a positive sports culture in his community. Sportsmanship and making youth sports accessible to all is a deep commitment for Mike. In 2024, he worked tirelessly to merge two youth travel programs in Arlington to create a unified, non-profit travel baseball opportunity for local ball players with the goal of giving more young people local and affordable options to continue in their sport. Mike continues to be the President of Arlington Senior Babe Ruth, a recreational league for baseball players, including a full team of young women ball players, ages 13-18. The Better Sports Club of Arlington is proud to name Mike Murray its 2025 Sportsperson of the Year. |
|
|
The President’s Award
Awarded to the Outstanding Club Member Sponsored by: The Better Sports Club Taylor Triggs Taylor has served on the Board of the Better Sports Club for the past several years, and recently completed a two-year term as, undoubtedly, the youngest Club President in its 69-year history. In addition to recruiting new members to join the club and attend our monthly dinner meetings, Taylor has been an important member of the Club’s high school awards selection committee, delving into the nomination packets for the many deserving nominees. The Better Sports Club is grateful for Taylor’s service to the Club! |
|