Unsung Senior Athletes, Fall 2021

Jack Hill, who’s competed in varsity soccer for four years and started at the left back position for three, played a key role in the Cougars’ season-to-remember which included a 21-0-1 record and Prep League and VISAA championships.

“Jack is an exceptional teammate,” said Coach Rob Ukrop. “He’s driven and competitive, but most importantly, he knows how to connect with his teammates and keep them moving forward when the game gets hard.  We appreciate his maturity and willingness to sacrifice for the good of the team. He leads by example.”

With uncommon heart and passion, Maria Bonwell played the right back position for the field hockey team which finished 14-7, won the League of Independent Schools championship, and reached the VISAA semifinals.

“Proficient defenders rarely get the credit they deserve,” Coach Karen Doxey said. “There’s not a lot of glory chasing down opponents and rarely, if ever, seeing your name in the box score. That never seemed to matter to Maria. She worked consistently and diligently at every practice and game to hone her skills and work with others to get the job done.”

Harry Shaia pulled yeoman’s duty on the football field this fall. On defense, he started at tackle but played nose guard at times. On offense, he started at both guard and center, depending on the situation. 

“Harry has been a constant for our team since the end of 2020,” said Coach Mark Palyo. “He worked diligently so he could be as prepared as possible for this year. When he presented himself to the team for captain consideration, the response was a loud roaring cheer. Harry inspired his teammates by his words and through actions. He was an Iron Man on the line. Often outmatched in size, Harry stood tough and gave his best for his team on every snap.”

A three-season distance runner, Brent Hailes was a member of the cross country team that placed second in both the Prep League and VISAA championship meets.

“Brent is a positive and uplifting member of the team,” said Coach Matthew Richardson. “He always keeps his teammates smiling and provides a good laugh each day. His good nature is matched only by his desire to give his very best in all situations. He’s a dedicated distance athlete who has developed a deep understanding of training and competing. His ability to close on his competitors in the last mile and outkick them in the last 100 meters is a testament to his give-it-all attitude. Brent is the kind of guy who will always give you his best, whether in a workout, as a competitor, or as a friend.”

A manager in 2020, Skylar Mullins earned a spot on the varsity tennis team this last fall and compiled a 5-0 record in singles and 8-1 in doubles, often in exhibition matches but occasionally in matches that counted in the final tally.

“Skylar is an incredibly hard worker not only on the court but in sports performance as well,” said Coach Allyson Brand. “She has an excellent attitude, she always has a smile on her face, and she comes to practice ready to give 110 percent and find ways to improve.”

Lucy Barnes, a two-year varsity tennis competitor, was one of three captains on the stellar squad that
finished 19-2 and won both the LIS and VISAA championships. Her command of the technical aspects of the game is strong, but it was the intangibles that set her apart.

“Lucy always leads with a positive attitude and great smile,” Brand said. “She’s so kind to everyone on the team and never fails to make someone’s day.”

Lucy and Reynolds Hester have been doubles partners since they were in the seventh grade.

“Reynolds always helped at home matches with game ball distribution, scorecard collection, and gathering match scores,” Brand said. “On the court, her strength was her doubles play, especially her intuition, aggressive net play, and drop volleys. Her chemistry with Lucy on the court made them fun to watch and earned them a winning record.”

  ~Weldon Bradshaw