Unsung Senior Athletes, Winter 2026

Whether in interscholastic competition, practices, or sports performance sessions that are integral to the success of the athletic program, their spirit, grit, and determination always made their teammates better.

 

Makenzie Weiss was a three-season veteran and two-season starter at shooting guard on Collegiate’s girls varsity basketball team. Although her final season, during which she was a captain, ended prematurely when she suffered a torn right ACL in January, she finished her career with 265 points, 198 rebounds, and 95 steals.

 

“Despite her injury, Makenzie remained positive and stayed came to practices and games as much as she could,” said Coach Kevin Coffey. “She showed great leadership by pointing out things for the younger players on the floor to make them better even though she couldn’t be on the floor herself.”

 

Jaden Station, a guard on the boys basketball squad, was as effective driving fearlessly into the paint and battling for rebounds as he was playing on the perimeter.

 

“Jaden made an impact on a daily basis because of his competitive, team-first approach to the game,” said Coach Nick Leonardelli. “He competed in every drill, he learned the point guard position, and his effort helped to bring out the best in his teammates. We will miss his presence as both a player and as a caring teammate.”

 

Addison Lucas competed in varsity swimming for four years as a middle distance freestyle and butterfly specialist.

 

“Addison has always done whatever is best for the team,” Peters said. “The past two years, we entered the LIS (League of Independent Schools) meet with a dearth of swimmers in the 500 free. Addison stepped up in both situations. This year, she was a last minute sub to swim a grueling double of the 100 fly (1:07.70) and 500 free (6:03.00) to help the team. Then, she finished her career at the state meet by swimming her fastest 50 free (27.41).

 

Jack Neese, a five-year varsity swimmer, competed in the 100 and 200 freestyle in his final season and recorded personal bests of 52.80 in the former and 1:53.98 in the latter. He also completed a Half Ironman despite the fact that he was nursing a broken hand, then swam on Senior Night, underwent surgery, and returned to swim in the VISAA championship meet.

 

“Jack has always been there to support his teammates both at meets and in practice,” said Coach Mike Peters. “His resolve to compete despite the challenges he faced epitomizes his love for the team.”

 

Ashley Grace Johnstone, a Randolph-Macon College volleyball commit, participated in winter track as a member of the shot put contingent and this past season served as a team captain. When her team needed her the most, she delivered with second place performances in both the LIS (34-0) and VISAA (34-11.5) championship meets.

 

“Ashley Grace played a significant role in our throwing group,” said Coach Beth Kondorossy. “She's so inclusive to all the athletes no matter their grade or ability. She brought such a joyful attitude every day. She's a great teammate who’s extremely coachable and whose positivity impacts everyone.”

 

Thomas Gallahan has been a devoted and hard working member of the distance contingent on the track team throughout his high school career. This winter he played a crucial role on the 4x800 relay team, which finished 3rd in the Prep league and 6th in the VISAA. His personal best split was 2:08.

 

“Thomas's dedication to team and commitment to making everyone around him a better runner and teammate are hallmarks of his leadership style,” said Matthew Richardson, his coach in both cross country and track. 

Colin McLoughlin played on Collegiate’s futsal team for four years and is known for his willingness to challenge himself to improve through his work effort and enthusiasm.

 

“Colin is a fantastic teammate who always supports and guide the younger players without being asked,” said Coach Page Chapman. “He applied defending and attacking principles throughout the season which made him a player essential to the futsal program. We’ll always remember him for his dedication, commitment to excellence, and leadership.”

 

Robbie Redmond was a member of the wrestling program in the 157 and 165 weight classes the past two seasons and played a significant behind-the-scenes role in the Cougars’ runner-up finish in the Prep League championship tournament and 14th place out of 32 teams in the VISAA.

 

“Robbie was a super-tough workout partner who got better every day and made his teammates better,” said Coach Andy Stone. “He always gave it his all. That’s the kind of kid who helps the wrestling team — and any team, for that matter — get better. The tougher the wrestling room is, the tougher the team will be. You get that when guys step up and push the starters by coming each day and battling as hard as they can. Robbie definitely made the room better.”

~Weldon Bradshaw