Tyler Lewis has played varsity football the past two years as a wide receiver, defensive back, and kickoff returner.
“After his Junior season, Tyler made a commitment to the team and showed up to every single offseason open gym,” said Coach Collin McConaghy. “His growth over his time with us was tremendous both on and off the field, and he became someone we could always rely on to make plays. Tyler’s effort, work ethic, and attitude set a high standard for his teammates.”
A two-season varsity tennis player, Madelyn Morgan finished her Senior year with a 5-0 record in singles and 11-0 doubles, often in exhibition matches but at times in competitions in which her performance contributed to the team score.
“Madelyn’s teammates describe her as funny, positive, energetic, inclusive, dependable, and compassionate,” said Coach Allyson Brand, the League of Independent Schools Coach of the Year. “She’s a true team player who shows up to practice and sports performance with a great attitude and is ready to work hard. She’s helped raise the bar for her teammates.”
Justin Entzminger has competed on the varsity soccer team the past two years. His resilience, grit, and whatever-it-takes approach made him a key player for the Cougars.
“Justin has played a variety of roles on our team this fall including both outside backs, center midfield, forward,” said Coach Rob Ukrop. “His soccer IQ allows him to transition seamlessly between roles, and his positive outlook has made our team stronger.”
Elise Robinson was a newcomer to cross country this fall and recorded a personal best 5K time of 25:37.20 in the Virginia Showcase against elite competition at Pole Green Park in late October.
“Elise worked diligently to improve each and every day,” Richardson said. “Her steady nature and determined grit led her to drop more than four minutes off her 5K time this season. Along the way, she inspired others with her kindness and spirit.”
Charlotte Callahan, a longtime member of the cross country program, ran a personal best 5K time of 25:43.90, also in the Virginia Showcase.
“Since she joined the cross country program, Charlotte has shared her energy and love of running with her teammates,” Richardson said. “A fierce competitor against any obstacle, she exudes positivity and always pushes herself and others to be better.”
As a cross country runner, Justinas Petkauskas has always been the ultimate team player. He ran a personal best 18:17.70 in the 5K in the Virginia Showcase, but his greatest impact on the program can’t be recorded on any timing device.
“Justinas is a Renaissance man who contributes in many ways to our school community,” said Coach Matthew Richardson. “He’s been a hard working teammate who diligently strives to make himself and others better each day. He’s a tough competitor who always gives his best when the race is on the line. Above all, he makes being a member of the program fun and meaningful. Justinas has served as a mentor to the younger guys and fosters a love for the sport that will live on long after he graduates.”
A setter on Collegiate’s varsity volleyball team, Mackenzie Weiss played in all 92 of the Cougars’ sets her Senior season and recorded 66 aces and 467 assists. The numbers are impressive, for sure, but her contributions transcend statistics.
“Mackenzie has been a true leader on and off the court, setting the standard with her work ethic, composure, and competitive spirit,” said Coach Diamond Welton-Boxley, the LIS Coach of the Year. “Her consistency and drive push everyone around her to be their best. She leads not just through words but through action. She always gives her best, supporting her teammates and finding ways to make the team better. Part of our success this season is a reflection of her leadership and dedication.”
Coco Wayne has played forward on the varsity field hockey team for two years and contributed a goal against Grafton (Yorktown) in the Cougars’ 7-0 victory in the Trinity Invitational in September.
“Coco's energy, dedication, and positivity have made such a lasting impact on our team and our program,” said Coach Kelsey Smither. “She leads by example by working hard every practice, cheering louder than anyone on the sidelines with green and gold pom poms in hand until it's her moment to go in the game, and always finding a way to lift others up when they need it most. She’s shown what it truly means to be a great teammate and an even better friend.”