Congratulations 70th Annual Awards Recipients!
Scroll to the bottom of the page for a slideshow of athletes and the award event.
Congratulations Kaiya Ovando, 2026 Female Athlete-of-the-Year
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Congratulations David Toepel, 2026 Male Athlete-of-the-Year
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2026 High School Student-Athlete and Adult Awards
Award Ceremony, June 9, Columbus Club of Arlington
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Male High School Athlete of the Year
The Merrill Hoover Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Optimist Club of Arlington David Toepel Washington-Liberty High School football Coach Shapiro says that David exemplifies outstanding character, leadership and dedication. He is dependable, selfless and team-oriented. David contributed to the football team as a wide receiver, cornerback and kick returner. He embraced every role with pride and responsibility, and is respected by both teammates and coaches for his work ethic and the way he carries himself on and off the field. David was a three-year starter on the football team that compiled an exceptional 26-4 regular season record and won two District Championships. This year David had 67 pass receptions and 6 touchdowns. David also was a starter on the Washington-Liberty soccer team where he earned first-team All District honors as a junior. He is an excellent student too. Outside the classroom, David volunteers at the Arlington Food Assistance Center where he organizes donated food and distributes it to Arlington families in need. This fall, David will attend Clemson University. |
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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 Henry Gerber Henry has been the catcher for the Washington Liberty-High School varsity baseball for three years. His defensive prowess – the ability to pick off base runners, throw runners out stealing, and block bad pitches – has been instrumental in the Generals’ success. Coach Healy says, "Henry guides our pitching staff through games, commands the defense and very much acts like a coach on the field.” Henry's senior season achievements included second-team All District. Henry is a great student in W-L’s baccalaureate program, and is very active in the Unified Sports program at W-L, where he works with students who have physical and mental disabilities. This fall, Henry will attend and play baseball at Gettysburg College. |
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Basketball Sportswoman of the Year
The Candice Brown Trophy Sponsored by: Fran Vitt Eve Jungman Washington-Liberty High School Coach Willis states that over the last two seasons Eve has served as team captain where she has demonstrated strong leadership, dedication and an unwavering commitment to her teammates. Her senior year achievements include District Player of the Year, first-team All Region and second-team All State. Somehow Eve also found time to play on W-L's flag football, volleyball and track & field teams, where she was regional champ in the shot put and runner-up in the discus. Besides being an excellent student, Eve is involved in many W-L clubs, including the Red Cross Club, the Women in Sports Club, and the Best Buddies Club. This fall, Eve will attend and play basketball at Dartmouth College. |
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Basketball Sportsman of the Year
The John and Ed Hummer Trophy Sponsored by: Beyond the Hoop, Inc. Darius Bivins Bishop O'Connell High School Coach Wootten says that Darius is a great teammate. He is selfless, recognizes and respects all of his teammates' contributions and is very coachable. In his senior year, Darius was first-team All WCAC, first-team All Met and a McDonald's All American athlete. Coach Wootten states that Darius is widely considered the best passer in the country. An outstanding student (never earned lower than an A in every high school class), Darius also found time to work weekly with Special Olympics players. This fall, Darius will attend and play basketball at Saint Mary’s College of California. |
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Challenger Sportsperson of the Year
The Ernest E. Hively, Jr./Andrew Walsh Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Jim and Janet Walsh L.J. Seiff L.J. has played in the Arlington Little League Challengers program for 12 seasons. He is well known and a friendly face on the field. He greets others, socializes with his peers and is always ready to talk baseball. Despite L.J.'s mobility and vision issues, in addition to baseball, he loves to water ski, rock climb, snow ski and horseback ride. Outside of sports, L.J. stays very busy being an advocate for himself and other young people with disabilities. He has won awards for his talents as a photographer. He has also won an award from the Arlington Special Education PTA for Outstanding Student Advocate. |
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Cheer Sportsperson of the Year
The Ray Michael Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Dan Kain Trophies Logan Milton Washington-Liberty High School Coach Haronni expressed that Logan is one of the most well-rounded student athletes she has ever had the opportunity to work with, and that her impact extends well beyond athletics. Logan is a young woman of exceptional character who leads by example in every arena of her life -- on the mat, in the classroom, and in the community. She was captain of the W-L varsity cheerleading team and also is a shot putter on the track and field team. During her junior year, Logan led her team to a first place finish at the Liberty District Cheer Championship, and was named first-team All District in 2024 and 2025, and second-team All Region in 2024 and 2025. Logan is an excellent student, and outside the classroom she is involved with the March of Dimes, Food for Neighbors, and Special Olympics. This fall, Logan will attend Louisiana State University. |
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Crew Sportswoman of the Year
The William and Frank Havens Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Casual Adventure Emily Kiesel Washington-Liberty High School Coach McPhillips says that Emily's work ethic and attitude make her a reliable leader who cares deeply about her sport and her teammates, and it shows in everything that she does. Emily is a three-year varsity racer and was a member of the varsity boat that ranked 9th nationally in 2025. She is an outstanding student, drum major for the W-L marching band and a two-time science fair winner. Outside of school, Emily participates in the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps, an organization that is designed to develop leaders of character. Emily also tutors math and English, and is a member of a group that assists incoming freshman acclimate to high school life. This fall, Emily will attend the Coast Guard Academy. |
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Crew Sportsman of the Year
The Charlie Butt, Jr. Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: The Better Sports Club Declan Leighton Yorktown High School Coach Velasquez says that Declan has been a dedicated member of Yorktown's varsity rowing team for the past four years and his character, leadership and work ethic consistently set the standard for those around him. At Yorktown, Declan has competed across multiple boat classes and has been part of several championship crews. In 2025, he was a key member in Yorktown's top eight as they became the fastest boat in Virginia. Declan is an outstanding student and volunteers regularly to tutor ESL students, judge middle school science fairs, teach young children swimming and water safety and help maintain school gardens. This fall, Declan will attend and row at MIT. |
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Cross Country Sportswoman of the Year
The Anne Viviani Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Columbia Gardens Cemetery Mina Dowler Washington-Liberty High School Coach Bacon says that Mina is a delight to coach and has been a vital member of the W-L cross country team for four years. She is the team captain and leads by example. Mina has run on W-L's varsity district and regional teams each year. Every summer, Mina organized and led unofficial "captains' runs," which are weekly runs aimed at getting her teammates fit and excited for the coming cross country season. In addition to being an outstanding student, Mina is EMT certified and volunteers at the animal shelter. She has been awarded a National Navy ROTC scholarship. In the fall, she will attend and run at the Coast Guard Academy. |
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Cross Country Sportsman of the Year
The Michael A. Wardian Trophy Sponsored by: Roger and Phyllis O'Dell Morgan Fritz Washington-Liberty Coach Bacon says that as a captain in cross country and track, Morgan is friends with everyone on the team and is always the first person to offer assistance to teammates and coaches. He is a four-year varsity letter recipient in both cross country and outdoor track. This year in cross country, Morgan finished third at the Georgetown Prep Classic, third at the Arlington County Championship and fifth at the District Championship. He qualified for regionals in both 2024 and 2025. Additionally, Morgan had many statewide finishes in track. Morgan is an excellent student. Outside of school, he has led several Arlington forest and stream cleanups, volunteered at the Capital Area Food Bank and loves to tutor younger students on how to read and pronounce Chinese words. In the fall, Morgan will attend and run at the University of Richmond. |
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Dance Sportsperson of the Year
The Emily Carnes Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: The Better Sports Club Genevieve Cribb Bishop-O’Connell High School Coach Salvador says that Genny is a dedicated four-year member of the dance team and is one of their most well-rounded members as a dancer and a leader, bringing her “A game” to every practice and performance. Genny is an outstanding student, but still finds time to volunteer at the Capital Area Food Bank and teach part-time at the Virginia Ballet Company and School. Genny has also performed in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and is a three time Universal Dance Association All-American. In the fall, Genny will attend Virginia Tech University. |
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Field Hockey Sportswoman of the Year
The J. Elwood Clements Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: The Arlington County Sheriff's Office Reagan Fruzzetti Yorktown High School Coach Shipley says that Reagan, as a member of the Yorktown field hockey program for the past five years, has always been a positive and encouraging teammate. From practices to games, Reagan was determined to lead through her hard work and commitment to the team, as well as with her consistent passion to win. Reagan led the team to two Virginia State Championships (2023 and 2024) and was twice second-team All Liberty District for defense. Reagan is an outstanding student and volunteers at Georgetown University Hospital, the Arlington Food Assistance Center, and several other organizations. Reagan also coaches practices and umpires for the Arlington Youth Field Hockey League. This fall, Reagan will attend the University of Virginia. |
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Football Sportsman of the Year
The Eric Sievers Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Blankingship & Keith, P.C. Samson Schneider Yorktown High School Coach Hicks says that Samson always puts the team ahead of himself. With his calm demeanor as quarterback, Samson was able to lead the offense to success. In his senior year, Samson accounted for 2,400 offensive yards, (2,100 passing yards and 300 rushing yards) and had a 65% completion percentage. He was first-team All District. An excellent student, Samson also volunteers at the Arlington Food Assistance Center and various local churches. This fall, Samson will be attending and playing football at Denison University. |
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Golf Sportswoman of the Year
The Pam Murray Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Washington Golf & Country Club Women’s Golf Association Caitlin Wright Yorktown High School Coach Williams says that Caitlin's leadership, hard work and dedication made his job a lot easier; it was like having another assistant coach. She is committed to her teammates and to the success of the team, whether it was going out of her way to give a ride to an underclassman, or helping a teammate with homework. Caitlin played varsity golf for four years. She qualified for the girls State tournament every year, reaching the State tournament this year and finishing 21st. Caitlin is an excellent student. Outside of the classroom, she volunteers with the Animal Welfare League of Arlington, Arlington Food Assistance Center, and the Yorktown Best Buddies program. In the fall, Caitlin will be attending Purdue University. |
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Golf Sportsman of the Year
The Henry Kerfoot Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Buck & Associates, Inc. Finn Watson Finn has been a member of the Washington-Liberty High School varsity golf team for four years, and has been the captain for the past three. W-L Coach Wilkis says that Finn has distinguished himself as an exceptional teammate, player and leader. Finn led his W-L team to district titles in 2024 and 2025, and a regional title in 2025. Individually, Finn qualified for the Virginia State Championship in all four years, winning the individual title in 2025. In school, Finn is an excellent student. Outside of school, Finn is engaged in Morgan's Message, where he volunteers as a mentor to younger athletes, supporting their mental well-being and sharing strategies he has developed through years of competing at a high level nationally. This fall, Finn will attend and play golf at James Madison University. |
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Gymnastics Sportswoman of the Year
The Joe D’Emidio Trophy Sponsored by: Arlington Aerials Parents Association Anya Clemmer Yorktown High School Coach Reilly says that Anya is truly a force of nature—she is smart, funny, kind and a team player. This year, Yorktown has the largest gymnastics program in school history, thanks to Anya recruiting athletes from other sports and giving them encouragement throughout the season. Anya was named All State, All Region, All District and All Met Honorable Mention. Under her leadership as captain of the team, Yorktown won the district title and region title for the first time in 10 years, and then placed third in the state tournament (best finish in 50 years). Anya is an outstanding student and, among other extracurricular activities, participates in the Smile Community Service Club and the adaptive gymnastics program at Barcroft. |
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Ice Hockey Sportsperson of the Year
The Brian Hannigan/Tom Newman Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Bill Walsh Nathan Myers Washington-Liberty High School Coach Stewart says that Nate was analytical, objective and even-keeled, the perfect temperament for a defenseman. As captain of the team in his senior year, Nate led the team to an undefeated season, beating Woodson in the championship game, and also beating Yorktown in the annual Battle of Arlington. At the end of the year, Nate received the Career Award from the coaches; this award recognizes a player who made significant, positive contributions to the W-L hockey program during his years playing on the team. Off the ice, Nate is an outstanding student and a volunteer coach for the NOVA Cool Cats hockey program, which provides a hockey playing experience for youth with special needs. In the fall, Nate will be attending Syracuse University. |
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Lacrosse Sportswoman of the Year
The Jamie Reynolds Trophy Sponsored by: Columbia Gardens Cemetery Zoe Davis Yorktown High School Coach Viilu says that Zoe is the kind of student-athlete whose character quietly elevates everyone around her. Her integrity shows up in her punctuality, her attention to doing things the right way, and her willingness to hold herself to the same high standards she hopes to inspire in her teammates. Zoe is a four-year varsity player and team captain. As a defender, she anchored the Yorktown team that won state championships in 2024 and 2025. She is an excellent student and editor of the school newspaper. Outside of school, Zoe is a summer camp counselor for Encore Stage and Studio. In the fall, Zoe will attend Dartmouth College. |
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Lacrosse Sportsman of the Year
The Jon Reynolds Trophy Sponsored by: Judge George Varoutsos Eli Pilch Yorktown High School Coach Beer says that Eli has been a tremendous asset to the Yorktown team over the last four years, the last two as captain. He has consistently done everything he can to be helpful to his coaches and his teammates. Eli was a three-year starter at attack, and in 2025, he was second-team All District. Eli is an outstanding student. Outside of the classroom, he supports the needs of the Arlington Free Clinic (free healthcare to those in Arlington who cannot afford it) and participates in Lacrosse the Nations, where he led teammates on a service trip to Colombia. There, they volunteered at local Boys and Girls Clubs, speaking Spanish. This fall, Eli will attend the University of Virginia. |
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Rifle Sportsperson of the Year
The Charlie Viars Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Sgt. Dorothy M. Doyle American Legion Post 139 Taylor Kunic Wakefield High School Coach Kohan describes Taylor as the type of person who is just a pleasure to coach. She always has a positive attitude which comes through in all aspects of her life. Taylor has been a four-year varsity athlete, and this year was the captain. She was the highest scorer in five of the team’s seven matches and was first-team All East Conference. She helped Wakefield place third in the East Conference. Taylor also is a cheerleader and member of the gymnastics team. At H.B. Woodlawn, she is an outstanding student. Outside of school, Taylor is President of her church's youth group. She also babysits children whose refugee parents are attending classes at the local resource center. In the fall, Taylor will be attending Brigham Young University. |
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Soccer Sportswoman of the Year
The John “Mac” McLaughlin Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Arlington Soccer Association Sulley Allen Washington-Liberty High School Coach Woods expressed that he cannot say enough great things about Sulley. She literally comes to each practice and game with a smile and is either singing or dancing as she approaches the event. Her positive attitude is infectious. Sulley is one of the captains on the team and is a true leader. She has been the starting winger for the last two years and has scored many critical goals. Additionally, Sulley excelled on the defensive side. In 2025, she led the team to its best season ever and was awarded with Honorable Mention All District. Sulley is an excellent student who also volunteers with various organizations such as Food for Neighbors, Martha's Table, Doorways for Women, Arlington Free Clinic and Hand to Hunger. This fall, Sulley will be attending the University of South Carolina. |
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Soccer Sportsman of the Year
The George Towner, Jr. Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Arlington Soccer Association Darragh Cahill Washington-Liberty High School Coach Carrasquillo says Darragh is very dedicated to his teammates, always offering positive words of encouragement and leading by example. As the team captain the last two years, Darragh has done a great job communicating his coach's expectations to the team. Despite being a fierce competitor on the field, Darragh has a quiet and reserved demeanor off the field. Darragh is a three-year varsity letter winner. In 2025, he was second-team All District and honorable mention All Region. Darragh is a member of the W-L Student Athlete Council and a valedictorian of his class. Outside of school, Darragh volunteers for Toys for Tots and the Glencarlyn Civic Association. In the fall, Darragh will attend and play soccer at Mary Washington University. |
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Softball Sportswoman of the Year
The Kristy Burch Bergmann Trophy Sponsored by: Arlington Girls Softball Association Celia Anbinder Washington-Liberty High School Coach Wicklund says that Celia exemplifies what it means to be both a leader and a true sportsman. She comes to practice every day with a commitment not only to improve her own game, but also to elevate those around her. Celia has been a four-year varsity player and team captain the last two years. Her career batting average is north of .500 and she had a total of nine home runs through her junior season. Already this season she knocked five more home runs. As a sophomore, Celia was second-team All District. As a junior, she was first-team All District and first-team All Region. She is an excellent student. Outside of the classroom, Celia is the President and founder of the Mental Health Action Club and the Vice President of Women's Rights Initiative. In the fall, Celia will be attending and playing softball at Brown University. |
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Swim & Dive Sportswoman of the Year
The Shelley Mann Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Mary Schade Anna LeNard Bishop O'Connell High School Coach Simonson says Anna embodies the very best qualities of character, leadership, and dedication. What sets Anna apart is her ability to lead, not just through performance, but also through presence. Anna was team captain for the last two years. She led her team to successes in the last two state tournaments, qualifying in multiple events, including the 200 IM, 50 freestyle, 100 butterfly and contributing to all three relay teams. This year, Anna also broke the 1:04 barrier in the 100 butterfly for the first time. In addition to being an excellent student, Anna is an active member of Best Buddies and is very involved in Virginia Special Olympics. She received the Outstanding Peer Mentor Award from Porto Charities, a non-profit organization for individuals with intellectual disabilities. In the fall, Anna will be attending Boston College. |
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Swim & Dive Sportsman of the Year
The Tom Dolan Trophy Sponsored by: Cardinal Construction & Management Kedar Kambhampaty Washington-Liberty Coach Dorville says Kedar is a disciplined and dependable competitor who consistently prepares at a high level and brings focus to both practices and meets. His commitment to team success, steady improvement, and positive presence has made him an integral part of the W-L varsity swim program. This year, in the District meet, Kedar placed fourth in the 200 IM and ninth in the 100 breaststroke. In the regional meet, he placed sixth in the 200 IM and seventh in the 100 breast. In the state tournament, Kedar placed ninth in the 200 IM and the 100 breast, and swam in two relays with top ten finishes. Kedar is an exceptional student and gives back through mentoring and peer support. He offers his time and talents to help others succeed. |
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Tennis Sportswoman of the Year
The Donna Floyd Fales Trophy Sponsored by: Kevin Jones Zaineb Qadir Yorktown High School Coach Ratcliffe states that Zaineb’s character is most evident in her impeccable sportsmanship. Her level of integrity, paired with her quiet confidence, makes her a respected figure among her peers and opponents alike. This year, she is serving as the Yorktown team captain. In just one year, Zaineb moved from number ten to number four on the team ladder. She has a winning record this spring in the very competitive Liberty District. Zaineb is an excellent student, a talented violinist who earned District Honors in orchestra, and a winner of both school and regional-level science fairs. Outside of Yorktown, she serves her community by giving concerts at local retirement homes, mentoring middle school students at summer orchestra camps, and cleaning up elementary school playgrounds. This fall, Zaineb will be attending the University of Virginia. |
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Tennis Sportsman of the Year
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Track and Field Sportswoman of the Year
The John Randolph Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Stuart Shelton Gabriela Netwall Washington-Liberty High School Coach Lott says that Gabriela is dedicated to being a student first, followed by athlete, consistently prioritizing her academics while excelling in her sport. She has very strong leadership qualities, serving as a two-time captain for both the indoor and outdoor track seasons. Gabriela consistently supports activities that bring the team closer together. Gabriela has set multiple school records in events including the 500-meter, indoor high jump, 400-meter, 200-meter, and both the 4x100 and 4x400 relays. She is a regional champion in the 400-meter and relay events. She is an excellent student and volunteers to teach young girls how to play volleyball. This fall, Gabriela will attend West Point. |
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Track and Field Sportsman of the Year
The Peter Weilenmann Trophy Sponsored by: The Better Sports Club Cameron Bowser Bishop O'Connell High School Coach Moore says that Cameron is an exceptional student, athlete, and person. He is unfailingly honest in all aspects of his life and makes others feel good about themselves. Cameron is an exceptional track athlete. He ran 47.06 in the 400-meter (second best time in Virginia in 2025) and 21.05 in the 200-meter (best time in Virginia in 2025). In March of this year, he won the 400-meter at the USATF Invitational at the armory in New York City. He has broken school records in the 200-meter and 400-meter that were set forty years ago by Eric Metcalf (1985 Better Sports Club Athlete of the Year and NFL Hall of Famer). Cameron is an excellent student and volunteers to make meals for a food distribution charitable organization. He also participates in O’Connell’s Best Buddies program for students with intellectual disabilities. In the fall, Cam will be running track at the University of Virginia. |
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Ultimate Disc Sportsperson of the Year
Girl Matching Division The Jenny Fey Trophy Sponsored by: Youth Ultimate League of Arlington Sidney Wang H-B Woodlawn Coach Boyle says that Sidney brings athleticism, grit and intensity to everything she does. She is incredibly hard working – checking in with teammates, leading fundraising efforts, and communicating with the coaches so that the team can achieve a great ultimate disc season. Sidney has been on the H-B Woodlawn ultimate disc team for four years, and captain for the last two years. During this stretch, the team won multiple championships at high school tournaments across the east coast. Sidney is an excellent student and directs plays with the H-B Woodlawn theatre department. She also volunteers her time with the YULA middle school program. In the fall, Sidney will attend and play ultimate disc at the University of Washington. |
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Ultimate Disc Sportsperson of the Year
Open Division The Bernie Kirchner Trophy Sponsored by: Youth Ultimate League of Arlington Henry Gould Henry has been an integral part of the H-B Woodlawn ultimate disc team for four years, and presently is the team captain. As captain, he leads with poise and pushes his teammates to be the best they can be. Henry is a dominant do-all player and has done a fantastic job growing the sport. His cutting is fast and he is an extraordinary deep threat. He uses his height and intensity for some elite defense as well. Henry is an excellent student and has both created and helped his fellow National Honor Society members find opportunities for volunteering in the community. This fall, Henry will be attending and playing ultimate disc at the University of Washington. |
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Volleyball Sportswoman of the Year
The Bill Finney Trophy Sponsored by: The Meiburger Law Firm, P.C. Ellyson Miller Bishop O'Connell High School Coach El Alaoui says Ellyson is an exceptional teammate who always puts others before herself, creating a positive and supportive environment for everyone around her. As a captain, she actively helps her teammates improve, whether by offering encouragement, sharing advice, or leading by example in both practice and competition. During Ellyson's career, she played 217 sets and had 361 kills. She led her team to two WCAC Championships and two VISAA Championships. Ellyson is an outstanding student and participated in many community organizations such as Hand to Hunger, Best Buddies, Teens against Cancer and Hope Heals Camp. |
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Wrestling Sportswoman of the Year
The Matthew T. Cluff Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Arlington Tigers Wrestling Club Makaela Trejo Washington-Liberty High School coaches Smith and Spitler say that Makaela has determination, heart, and a strong will. She has wrestled for two years. Although she fell short of her goals this season, she kept trying and pushing to get better. Makaela also plays soccer at Washington-Liberty and is a great student. Outside the classroom, Makaela volunteers as a teacher’s aide at Greenbrier Baptist Church and coaches soccer at an after-school program. |
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Wrestling Sportsman of the Year
The Matthew T. Cluff Memorial Trophy Sponsored by: Arlington Tigers Wrestling Club Logan Futrell Yorktown High School Coach Adams says that Logan has been an exceptional leader for the Yorktown wrestling program. He set an example through his work ethic, attitude, and accountability. He consistently asked what he could do better. Logan was a standout wrestler who finished third in the district and fourth in the region, earning a qualification to the State Tournament. He was a senior captain, but sadly tore his ACL in the beginning of the season. Even though he could no longer wrestle, nonetheless, Logan dedicated his season to helping his teammates improve and flourish. Logan is an excellent student and was an outstanding mentor for the younger student-athletes at Yorktown. This fall, Logan will be attending Boston University. |
Adult Awards
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Arlington Outstanding Coach
The John Youngblood Memorial Award Sponsored by: Arlington Sports Hall of Fame Kristina Dorville Kristina has been the Washington-Liberty High School swim and dive coach for 20 years. Under her leadership, the program has seen remarkable growth and achievement, going from 30 athletes to more than 100, reflecting both the strength of the program and Coach Dorville's ability to inspire student involvement. Her focus on team bonding, through traditions like weekly team dinners and hands-on fundraising events, creates a sense of belonging that extends far beyond the pool. In the last 10 years, Coach Dorville has produced 24 All-District athletes, 21 All-Region athletes and 24 All-State athletes. Her philosophy that every athlete plays a meaningful role, whether as a top competitor or a supportive teammate, fosters mutual respect among teammates and reinforces the importance of valuing others' contributions. Coach Dorville's program is centered on growth beyond times and placements. The Better Sports Club is proud to recognize Coach Dorville for all she has done to support the student athletes on W-L's swim and dive team. |
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Arlington Outstanding Coach
The John Glover Memorial Award Sponsored by: Arlington Sports Hall of Fame Andrew Adams Andrew has been the head wrestling coach at Yorktown High School for eight years. Coach Adams has transformed a sport, which is more often viewed as a collection of individual athletes, into a true team. In his second year, the team won the District Championship with no true superstars, but simply a collection of excellent showings from the majority of his wrestlers. Coach Adams has created an environment where everyone is welcome on the team. Many join who have never wrestled before, and participation flourishes among those who otherwise would not engage in a sport at Yorktown. Coach Adams celebrates the smallest of growth that he sees in an athlete, and is invested in the junior varsity and recently added girls team as much as he is with the varsity. Yorktown D.S.A. Krulfeld says that Coach Adams is always willing to pitch in and help with athletic department functions and coaching other sports, as he did for six years as the junior varsity boys soccer coach and four years as the freshmen field hockey coach. Most importantly, Coach Adams builds his teams with respect and care for each other as the main priority. The Better Sports Club is proud to recognize Coach Adams for all he has done for Yorktown Student Athletes. |
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Arlington Sportsperson of the Year
The Jim Allen Memorial Award Sponsored by: The Better Sports Club Josie Clayton Having just completed her first year as a university student, Josie Clayton is a trailblazer in women’s flag football, with a passion for the sport that began in elementary school when she joined the Arlington recreation league. She went on to compete with the Virginia Hurricanes, a nationally competitive flag football program based in Arlington, while also excelling as a multisport athlete, earning a spot on the top-level Arlington Travel Soccer team and playing basketball and soccer at Thomas Jefferson High School. Josie’s impact extends well beyond her field of play. She has coached a recreation youth girls flag football team in Arlington, while also helping to develop and lead the Virginia Hurricanes’ 8U program, and serving as a coach at multiple Arlington flag football developmental clinics. Her excellence and leadership caught national attention in 2026 when the NFL selected her as its female flag football player representative, appointing her as a national ambassador for women in the sport. With flag football set to debut as an Olympic event in 2028, Josie earned an invitation to the USA Olympic team trials – a testament both to her skill and her standing in the game. Last summer, Josie interned with the Washington Commanders, supporting the organization’s initiative to establish flag football as a varsity high school sport across Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia. Now a first-year student at Carnegie Mellon University, Josie continues to champion the growth of female flag football on the field, in the community, and on the national stage. The Better Sports Club is proud to name Josie Clayton as its 2026 Sportsperson of the Year. |
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The President’s Award
Awarded to the Outstanding Club Member Sponsored by: The Better Sports Club Jim O'Reilly Jim is more than deserving of this Better Sports Club award this year. Sporting events are near and dear to Jim, both here in Arlington and at his alma mater, the University of Virginia. Jim is a true Wahoo who proudly wears the orange and blue. In fact, he is a faithful attendee of all the Cavalier football games and still sits in the student section! Having joined the Board of the BSC two years ago, Jim has been an integral leader. He's done an incredible job recruiting new members and is always a presence at our monthly speaker dinners. Additionally, Jim has been an important member of the Club's high school awards selection committee, delving into the nominations for the many admirable nominees. His positive outlook, thoughtful discussion, and can-do attitude are what make Jim such a vital member. The Better Sports Club is grateful for Jim's service to the Club! |
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