Unsung Senior Athletes, Fall 2018

A three-sport athlete who recently signed a national letter of intent to play lacrosse for Louisville, Rachel Lifson started at sweeper on Collegiate’s field hockey team until she fractured her right thumb in the second of the Cougars’ four games against Trinity Episcopal.

 

“Rachel was our leader who brought competitive play and a competitive voice to every practice and game,” said Coach Karen Doxey. “She had become a starter because she took every single day as an opportunity to improve and learn the sport. This did not stop when she became injured. Rachel was there for every minute, giving advice during drills and letting the team know at halftime when they needed to step it up. She was a true role model whether she was on the field or not.”

 

The last time Mercer Reed suited up in a football game, he was a 9^th grader playing on the J.V. With much ground to make up, he returned this fall and earned a starting spot at offensive left tackle.

 

“Mercer’s efforts were commendable as he had to work to overcome his lack of experience,” said Coach Mark Palyo. “The game was faster and tougher than when he last played. He overcame many challenges to become a constant presence as a starter. We’re proud of his efforts.”

 

Always smiling, Sophie Roberts brought positive energy and leadership to each workout, meet, and bus ride during her three-year varsity cross country career. Her determination and will to succeed enabled her to run a 5K personal best of 24:03.

 

“Sophie is a terrific leader and a student of the sport of distance running,” said Coach Matthew Richardson. “Her teammates admire her tenacity and strength, and her love for others and for the sport is steadfast in every situation. Coachable beyond belief, Sophie is the type of athlete every team wants and every coach is honored to work with.”

 

Grant Ewing ran varsity cross country for two season. During that time, his quiet strength, work ethic, and dedication enabled him to lower his 5K personal best to 20:05 on Senior Day.

 

“Grant is a team-first kind of guy who diligently works to improve as a runner each and every day,” Richardson said. “He maintains a positive attitude and encourages younger runners to work hard and reach their fullest potential. A more humble guy you cannot find.”

 

A five-year member of the girls’ varsity tennis team, Bailey Andress served as a tri-captain for the squad that finished 20-0 and won both the League of Independent Schools and VISAA championships.

 

She compiled a 5-2 record playing singles (No. 4, 5, and 6) and 11-2 (and the LIS title) with Nora Willett at No. 3 doubles. Her contributions, though, extend beyond the numbers and speak to her presence and dedication.

 

 

The boys’ soccer team finished its season 13-2-2. Credit Nathan West and Jack Rowe with key assists – and much inspiration – throughout the campaign.

 

A midfielder, West was played two seasons of varsity soccer.

 

“Nathan came with a smile every day, worked hard, and encouraged his teammates,” Blair said. “He was one of our characters who brought life and energy to every practice. It takes all kinds of contributions from players for a team to maximize its potential. Nathan's place was an important one. He and Jack personify the best of being a part of a Collegiate team.”

 

As a junior, Rowe found himself on the outside looking in when the coaches set the roster. Undaunted, he tried out again as a senior and not only made the team but contributed valuable minutes as an outside midfielder.

 

“Jack was a model of hard work every day,” said Coach Charlie Blair. “We returned only three starters from last year and really needed guys to step into a leadership role. Our captains did a great job, but it has been others like Jack who bought in and set the tone for a team-first culture.”

  -- Weldon Bradshaw