West Valley Winter Sports Award Winners and Scholar Athletes Announced

The West Valley athletics department recently celebrated the accomplishments of its winter sports athletes at the annual winter sports award night. With 47 athletes being honored for their dedication and hard work during the 2023-24 winter season, it was a night filled with recognition and praise.

One of the highlights of the evening was the announcement of the Heart of a Wildcat Award winners. These student-athletes were recognized for embodying the qualities of sportsmanship, teamwork, dedication, respect, integrity, and excellence. Atticus Arena stood out as a double winner, taking home the award for boys bowling and modified boys basketball. Other winners included Samantha Fisher for girls bowling, Addison Smith for basketball cheer, and Brendon Ghani for varsity boys basketball. Olivia Harmony and Jersie Czapla were also recognized for their outstanding performances at the JV and modified levels, respectively.

In addition to the Heart of a Wildcat Award winners, six student-athletes were named second quarter New York State Public High School Athletic Association Scholar Athletes. These individuals maintained a 90% grade point average or better while excelling in their respective sports. Among the Scholar Athletes was Samantha Fisher, who not only received the prestigious academic honor but also took home a Heart of the Wildcat award for her exceptional performance on the bowling team.

Overall, the winter sports award night was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the student-athletes at West Valley. Athletic director Bryan Hansen expressed his immense pride in the scholar-athletes, highlighting their commitment to being students first and foremost. As the winter season comes to a close, these athletes can look back on their achievements with pride and look forward to continued success in the future.