2025-06-19 16:49:00
West Niagara Celebrates Top Athletes
West Niagara Secondary School honored its outstanding athletes at its annual awards banquet.
- Reese Bolibruck adn Nathan Hockridge were named the female and Male Senior All Around Athletes of the Year, respectively.
- Kason Edwards and Megan Clarke were recognized as the Junior Athletes of the Year.
- Numerous athletes received awards for their achievements in various sports.
The West Niagara Secondary School recently celebrated its student-athletes at the annual athletic awards banquet. Reese Bolibruck and Nathan Hockridge were the big winners, taking home the Female and Male Senior All Around Athlete of the Year awards. This event showcased the dedication and hard work of the school’s talented students.
Key Award Winners
A host of athletes were celebrated for their accomplishments across a range of sports. These awards are a testament too their perseverance and sportsmanship.
Did you know?-Many high schools hold annual athletic awards banquets to recognize student-athletes’ achievements in various sports. These events often highlight the dedication and hard work of the students throughout the academic year.
The Female Junior All Around Athlete of the Year was Jayen Lapcevich, while Miller Bryan was awarded the Male Junior All Around Athlete of the Year. The Male and Female Senior Athletes of the Year were Mat selinger and Maddy Jones, respectively.
Kason Edwards was also the Male Junior Athlete of the Year. Megan Clarke took home the Female Junior Athlete of the Year. The evening was filled with well-deserved recognition for many outstanding achievements.
Here’s a complete list of winners:
- Junior girls basketball Most Improved: tali Van Nynatten.
- Senior girls basketball MVP: Reese Bolibruck.
- Varsity girls field hockey Spirit of the Game: Madison Jones.
- Junior boys volleyball MVP: Gavin Simunic.
- Senior boys volleyball MVP: Matt Selinger.
- Junior boys football Defensive Player of the Year: Kason Edwards.
- Junior boys football Offensive Player of the Year: Cole Murray.
- Senior boys football Defensive Player of the Year: Adam Skeldon.
- Senior boys football Offensive Player of the Year: Alex Suntz.
- Senior boys football Leadership Award: Sean Northcott.
- Boys golf Leadership award: Jack Hanna.
- girls golf Coach’s Award: Keira Bacchus.
- Junior girls tennis Coach’s Award: Ava Lymburner.
- Senior girls tennis coach’s Award: Stephen Guerra.
- Cross country MVP: Sam Garbes.
- Cross country Coach’s Award: Jackson McIntosh.
- cheerleading Most Improved: Courtney Perdue.
- Girls curling Coach’s Award: Taylor Smith.
- Boys curling Coach’s award: Owen mcnulty.
- Swimming Most Improved: Noah LeBlanc.
- Swimming Most Valuable: Madailein van Duzen, Jaya Holland.
- Junior girls volleyball Coach’s Award: Tristan VanDyk.
- Senior girls volleyball MVP: Lia D’Archi.
- Junior boys basketball MVP: Sam Garbes.
- Senior boys basketball Most Improved: Jordan Patrick.
- Varsity girls hockey MVP: Trinity Clark.
- Junior boys hockey Coach’s Award: Daniel Flynn.
- Varsity boys hockey Coach’s award: Miller Bryan.
- Boys wrestling MVP: Kiran Ramburn.
- Girls wrestling Most improved: Laine Muldowney.
- Boys rowing Oarsman of the Year: Macgregor Winslade.
- Girls rowing Oarswoman of the Year: Molly Dodgson, Sandra McNally.
- Novice/junior badminton Most Dedicated: Henry Heeringa.
- Senior badminton Coach’s Award: Emma Kool,Julia Kuzma.
- Varsity girls soccer Coach’s Award: Lizzie Clausen.
- Junior boys soccer Coach’s Award: Charlie Kingston.
- Senior boys soccer MVP: Leo Petrou-Johnston.
- Ultimate frisbee Coach’s Award: Reese Bolibruck.
- Girls softball MVP: Jenna Prest.
- Girls rugby Coach’s Award: Ireland Hamilton.
- Boys baseball MVP: Logan Walker.
- Lacrosse MVP: Kason Edwards.
- Track and Field MVP: coco VanNynatten, Katelyn Jones.
- Track and Field Coach’s Award: Sydney Jeffery, Chase Larsen.
- Male Junior athlete of the Year: Kason Edwards.
- Female Junior Athlete of the Year: megan Clarke.
- Male Senior Athlete of the Year: Mat Selinger.
- Female Senior athlete of the Year: Maddy Jones.
- Female Junior All Around Athlete of the Year: Jayen Lapcevich.
- Male Junior All Around Athlete of the Year: Miller Bryan.
- Female Senior All Around Athlete of the Year: Reese Bolibruck.
- Male Senior All Around Athlete of the Year: Nathan Hockridge.
- Michelle Fazzari Award: Tyler Schaefer.
- For the love of the Game Award: Cedrik burke.
Reader question:-What qualities do you think are most crucial for a student-athlete to possess in order to be triumphant both on and off the field?
Spotlight on the Student-Athlete: Beyond the Awards
Beyond the accolades and trophies, what makes a triumphant student-athlete? The West Niagara Secondary school athletic awards banquet highlighted the importance of extracurriculars. The event showcased not only athletic prowess but also the qualities that shape well-rounded individuals. This event underscores the commitment to fostering excellence both on and off the field, a crucial aspect of student-athlete development.
Student-athletes need a strategic balance of athletic skill, academic diligence, and personal development. Success in both arenas often stems from unwavering dedication and strong time-management skills. Furthermore, these individuals often become role models, demonstrating the importance of teamwork and perseverance.
The school’s recognition of these athletes offers insight into their multifaceted lives. Let’s delve into the core elements that contribute to a student-athlete’s overall success.
The Pillars of success for Student-Athletes
Several key factors fuel a student-athlete’s journey. These individuals continuously hone skills and navigate challenges. These pillars are essential:
- Discipline and Time Management: Student-athletes juggle rigorous training schedules, academic responsibilities, and frequently enough part-time jobs. This requires extraordinary organizational skills and self-discipline. Effective strategies include prioritizing tasks, creating structured schedules, and making the most of every minute.
- Academic Excellence: Prioritizing academics is paramount. Strong grades are the foundation for college eligibility and future opportunities. Strategies include seeking help when needed, attending all classes, and organizing study groups.
- Physical and Mental Resilience: Athletes face setbacks, injuries, and intense pressure. Mental fortitude involves coping mechanisms. Regular exercise and proper nutrition give the mind and body the best chance to succeed.
- Teamwork and Leadership: Sports inherently foster these skills. Student-athletes understand the importance of collaboration, interaction and inspiring others. These skills are invaluable in academic and professional settings.
- Sportsmanship and Integrity: Playing fair, showing respect for opponents, and adhering to ethical standards are non-negotiable. These qualities build character and establish a positive reputation both on and off the field.
- Support System: A robust network of parents, coaches, mentors, and teammates offers emotional, practical, and academic support. They cheer them on and provide essential guidance.
resilience, the ability to bounce back from setbacks, marks some of the greatest student-athletes. Cultivating a growth mindset emphasizing continuous learning and effort is an invaluable skill.
Practical Tips for Student-athletes
Here are practical strategies for success:
- Plan: Use a planner or digital calendar to schedule practices and assignments.
- Prioritize: Tackle the most critically important tasks first.
- Communicate: Speak with teachers and coaches about scheduling conflicts.
- Seek help: Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from teachers,tutors,and mentors.
- Rest: Ensure sufficient sleep for optimal performance.
- Nutrition: Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated.
- Balance: Make time for social activities and hobbies.
Case Studies & New Perspectives
Consider the example of Mat Selinger, Senior Male Athlete of the Year. His success results from balancing his commitments. His consistent effort in both academics and sports underscores dedication and time management. He prioritizes teamwork and shows sportsmanship. These actions demonstrate how these elements enhance opportunities.
Another viewpoint comes from coaches. successful coaches emphasize holistic development.A coach might say, “We want to see them grow as people.” this view highlights the importance of character and personal growth. It extends beyond athletic excellence.
Myths vs. Facts
Here are some common myths and facts regarding student-athletes:
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| Student-athletes have it easy. | Student-athletes face intense pressure to succeed in academics and athletics. |
| Athletics hinder academic performance. | Time management and discipline learned through sports can improve academic performance. |
| Student-athletes are only focused on sports. | Many student-athletes value academic achievement and personal growth. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few common questions:
Q: How can I improve my time management skills?
A: Use a planner, prioritize tasks, and break large projects into smaller steps.
Q: Where can I find support as a student-athlete?
A: Seek help from teachers, coaches, mentors, or family members.
Q: How do I handle injuries?
A: Follow medical advice, focus on recovery, and seek support.
Q: What if I’m struggling academically?
A: Consult with your teachers, seek tutoring if necessary, and form study groups.
Q: How can I stay motivated?
A: Set goals, celebrate your successes, and focus on your love for the sport and learning.
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