Best of Preps 2016 by Mountain Times Publications

2016

STUDENT-ATHLETE AWARDS

PRICE ST. CLAIR

MEN’S STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

KARA POLSGROVE

WOMEN’S STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

ALEX RICHARDSON

COMMUNITY EXCELLENCE STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

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2 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

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Mountain Times Publications Best of Preps 2016

he second annual Best of Preps was held May 22 to recognize student-athletes from Ashe County, Avery County and Watauga high schools, not just for what they do on the field and on the court, but also for what they do in the classroom and their communities. The event, for the second straight year, was held at the Watauga High School auditorium. Players, coaches, sponsors, parents and friends gathered for a pre-ceremony reception before

the event started. Each of the 23 sports played by the three schools were sponsored by a diﬀerent business. Bubbles Car Wash was the premier sponsor this year. The coach from each sport then nominated one of his or her student-athletes for the award based on how well they did in that sport, and for how well they did in the classroom and on community projects. A panel of three judges then decided which student-athlete in

each sport won the Best of Prep award. Five diﬀerent awards — Men’s Student-Athlete of the Year, Women’s Student-Athlete of the Year, Comeback StudentAthlete of the Year, Community Excellence Student-Athlete of the Year and the Extra Mile Coach of the Year — were also sponsored by individual businesses. They were taken from the pool of nominations from the coaches. The featured speaker for the

event was former Appalachian State football coach Jerry Moore, who relayed inside stories about his teams at App State. He also talked about how he got his start in coaching after graduating from Bonham High School, in Bonham, Texas. The event was emceed by Mountain Times Publications group publisher Gene Fowler, and the awards were announced by Avery Journal Times editor Jamie Shell. Photography was provided by Dawn Shumate.

Featured speaker: Jerry Moore

PHOTOS BY DAWN SHUMATE Retired Appalachian State University Head Football Coach Jerry Moore addresses the audience during the 2016 Best of Preps award ceremony May 22.

ention the name Jerry Moore to people around the High Country and several thoughts go through their

heads. Respect. Class. Success. Championships. Gentleman. And, of course, the most successful football coach in Appalachian State football history. Moore was the guest speaker at the Best of Preps banquet held May 22 at Watauga High School. Supposedly in retirement, Moore is in demand to be a guest or motivational speaker more than ever. He took time to tell the student-athletes, and about 200 people at the Best of Preps, not so much about his past victories — yes the subjects of the Mountaineers’ 34-32 win over Michigan and the championships did come up — but about what it takes to get to those wins. Moore’s 242-134-2 overall coaching record, 146-40 at App State, speaks for itself. His Appalachian State teams had just one losing season in 24 years, and the Mountaineers won national championships in 2005-07 on the Football Championship Subdivision level. His Mountaineers won or shared 10 Southern Conference championships. They also reached the Division I-AA/FCS playoﬀs 18 times. Moore led the Mountaineers to the top of the mountain in 2005 with a 21-16 win over Northern Iowa, compiling a 12-3 season record. One year later, the Mountaineers won 14 straight games en route to a 28-17 win over Massachusetts in the 2006 season. The Mountaineers, after losing their first game, ran the table in for the rest of the season, including a 7-0 SoCon record. Moore led the Mountaineers to a third national championship in 2007 with a 49-21

rout of Delaware, which was quarterbacked by current Baltimore Ravens’ Joe Flacco, who has led the Ravens to a Super Bowl victory. Appalachian State finished with a 13-2 overall record in 2007, but the biggest victory, outside of the win over Delaware, was the win over Michigan. Appalachian State overcame an early 14-7 deficit by scoring three straight touchdowns to claim a 28-17 halftime lead that No. 5-ranked Michigan eventually overtook 32-31. App State took back with a game-winning field goal. Corey Lynch blocked Michigan’s potential game-tying field goal, and the Mountaineers made history. Moore talked more about a little known fact about the game instead of Lynch blocking the field goal. He revealed that starting center Scott Suttle, a three-year starter, missed the game because of injury. A freshman, Brett Irvin, took his place and provided the snap that gave the Mountaineers their game-winning kick. Moore was born in Bonham, Texas, and played his freshman season for a high school team that finished without a victory. “We celebrated when we won the coin flip,” he told the Best of Preps crowd. A new coach at Bonham eventually turned things around, which included beating a high school team coached by former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Don Meredith. Moore played his college ball at Baylor before getting into coaching. He coached under prep coach Jim Acree at Corsicana High School before becoming an assistant at SMU. He was also an assistant at Nebraska before becoming the head coach at North Texas State and Texas Tech. He came to Appalachian State in 1989 after being a volunteer assistant at Arkansas.

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Paramount Automotive Men’s Student-Athlete of the Year Why he won:

rice St. Clair was a three-sport athlete, running cross-country in the fall, swimming in the winter and track and field in the spring. He was an all-Northwestern Conference swimmer and a regional qualifier in the 2015 and 2016 swimming seasons, and won the Coaches Award in

swimming in 2016. He was also second in the NWC championships in the 3,200-meter run and fourth in the 1,600-meter run. Academics: St. Clair carries a 4.6364 weighted grade point average. He is a member of the honor roll and is a scholar athlete. He also was a Watauga High School Hugh O’Brien Youth

Leadership representative. Community: St. Clair is a worship leader at the Boone United Methodist Church and plays guitar, piano and sings with his youth group. He also participated in the Mr. WHS Pageant fundraiser, and served as a volunteer to construct the Boone United Trail.

Price St. Clair - Sophomore

Left: Men’s Student –Athlete of the Year Price St. Clair (Watauga), left, and Mountain Times Publications group publisher Gene Fowler.

He is constantly pushing himself to get better by practicing harder or asking coaches how to improve his time and technique. He never complains regardless how difﬁcult the task at hand is. He is truly a great kid to coach. Watauga men’s swimming coach David Gragg.

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GE Aviation Women’s Student-Athlete of the Year Why she won:

ara Polsgrove had quite a 2015-16, starting with cross-country when she was the Western Highlands Conference runner-up in the cross-country championships. She also finished 21st in the state 1-A meet and five Top 5 finishes in conference meets this season. After playing for the girls’ basketball

team during the winter for the Vikings, she took to the track, where she competed in 10 events at one time or another. She was a state finalist in the 300-meter hurdles and is also ranked eighth in the state in the 3,200-meter run in 1-A. Academics: Polsgrove is second in her class with a 4.619 weighted grade point average. She is also a member of the Key Club, the Beta

Club and is a three-time Western Highlands Conference scholar athlete. Community: Polsgrove is a volunteer at the Young Life Camp in Windy Gap, and took a mission trip to Nicaragua with Young Life. She is also a volunteer at the Benner Elk Christian Fellowship. She volunteers in the nursery of the children’s church and Sunday school.

Kara Polsgrove -Junior

Women’s Student –Athlete of the Year Kara Polsgrove (Avery), left, and Kendra Blevins.

She is selﬂess and willing to help wherever she can — she is an incredibly hard worker and encourages all those around her. Avery track and ﬁeld coach Scott Polsgrove.

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 7

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Why he won:

amantha Johnson had to overcome the loss of her father to illness in 2014. Johnson’s coach Stephanie Nichols said that, “She had a special bond with him that can’t be explained.” Johnson also had health issues of her own. In 2016, she was diagnosed with a heart issue that made it diﬃcult for her to be active. Instead of giving up cheerleading,

Academics: Johnson had a 3.5 grade point average and has been accepted to attend the University of South Carolina. She had the highest average for Spanish II in 2015 and the highest average in English II in 2015. Johnson also earned the 2016 Award of Excellence for the RD Program at Appalachian State

University. Community: Johnson is a part of the Memorial Day services in Ashe County and helps decorate the graves “with the upmost respect,” according to her cheerleading coach Stephanie Nichols. Johnson has also been a part of Ashe County’s Adopt-A Highway program for four years.

Samantha Johnson - Senior

Comeback Student –Athlete of the Year Samantha Johnson (Ashe County), left, and Marc Young.

Above her ability, her character is far above of what is expected of a teen. There truly is a light that shines from her. A perfect example of a role model. Ashe cheerleader coach Stephanie Nichols

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 9

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Boone Drug Community Excellence Student-Athlete of the Year Why he won:

lex Richardson was an all-Mountain Valley Conference defensive end for the Ashe Huskies. He was also a team captain for the Huskies, who went 6-6 overall, 5-2 in the MVC. Richardson also led the Huskies to the state 2-AA playoﬀs. Academics: Richardson carried a 4.031 grade point

average. He is a member of the Beta Club, the AB honor roll for the past four years and has a scholarship to UNC-Pembroke. Community: Richardson is an Eagle Scout. His culminating project was to build an amphitheater at Mt. Jeﬀerson Park. He has also helped three other scouts become Eagle Scouts by helping with their projects.

He was also a volunteer for the Special Olympics, was a volunteer at a local food shelter and participated in the Buddy Walk to raise money to fight Down syndrome. He volunteered at the Margate Nursing Home in Jeﬀerson and did some fundraising that helps rising freshmen coming to school who may need help with supplies. He also served as a mentor to incoming freshmen to Ashe County.

Alex Richardson - Senior

Community Excellence Student –Athlete of the Year Alex Richardson (Ashe County), left, and Mountain Times Publications Group Publisher Gene Fowler.

He has passion, energy and enthusiasm for every activity he participates in. Alex is an Eagle Scout and he has done many projects within our community. He is a tireless worker and meets every challenge head-on. Alex is a great role model for our younger players and students in our school. Ashe County football coach Brian Hampton

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Jim Armstrong Subaru Coach’s Extra Mile Award Why he won:

hen Wes Rousseau starting coaching in Ashe County, he was assigned to be the freshman boys’ basketball coach, and then the junior varsity boys’ basketball coach. Now in his 10th year of coaching at Ashe County High School, Rousseau has turned the Ashe boys’ and girls’ soccer programs into Mountain Valley Conference dynasties.

Rousseau first took over the girls’ soccer team in 2011, and led the Huskies to a 12-8 overall record, 11-5 in the conference. After completing his sixth season, Rousseau has compiled an overall record of 9138-6 and a MVC record of 78-5-2. Included are three straight conference championships from 2014-16. His 2015 team ran the table in the MVC with a 14-0 record, and the Huskies finished 16-8 this season, 13-1 in the league.

Rousseau took over the boys’ program in the fall of 2011 and led the Huskies to a 16-6-1 record overall, 13-3-1 in the conference. Since then, Ashe County has rolled to a 90-24-4 overall record, 63-6-4 in the MVC. Ashe has also won conference championships in 2012-14, and has never finished lower than second in any of his seasons. Both the boys’ and girls’ teams made the state 2-A playoﬀs this season.

Wes Rousseau - Ashe County

Ashe County High School girls’ soccer coach Wes Rousseau was named the Extra Mile Coach of the Year at the Best of Preps ceremony May 22..

Rousseau has turned the Ashe boys’ and girls’ soccer programs into Mountain Valley Conference dynasties. Independent Judges

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 13

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14 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

Courtyard Marriott Men’s Baseball Student-Athlete of the Year Why he won:

en Brown helped Ashe County’s baseball team to a 11-13 overall record and an 8-6 mark in the Mountain Valley Conference. The third baseman also helped the Huskies reach the state 2-A playoﬀs in 2016.

Academics: Brown carried a 4.29 weighted GPA this academic year. He received the Presidential Gold Service Award, was a Junior Marshall, a member of the Beta Club and has been a member of the honor roll for his four years at Ashe County. He also received the 2015 Best Defensive Back Award. In 2013, he earned the 2013 Football Coaches Award.

Community service: Brown served in a local soup kitchen and planted and helped tend the garden for the soup kitchen, and volunteered with the Nest Kids. He also helped with the Ashe assisted living program, was a church and youth leader, and volunteered as Ashe County’s baseball and football camps.

Ben Brown - Senior

Student –Athlete of the Year for Baseball Ben Brown (Ashe County), left, Jessica Smith and Heidi McKinney.

Ben is selﬂess when it comes to helping other on and off the ﬁeld. He is determined to make himself and others better despite any challenges there might be. Ashe baseball coach Mike Windish

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Hardee’s Men’s Basketball Student-Athlete of the Year Why he won:

ence.

udd Price helped Ashe County’s basketball team to a 13-15 record, 9-5 in the Mountain Valley Confer-

He averaged 12.6 points and 2.3 assists per game for the Huskies, helping the Huskies reach the state 2-A playoﬀs in the 2015-16. He was also named to the all-MVC team and was named the team’s Most Valuable

Player. Academics: Price is a member of the Beta Club and has a weighted GPA of 4.47. He has competed in the North Carolina Beta Convention.

Judd Price - Junior

Cory Hastings, left, and Student-Athlete of the Year for Men’s Basketball Judd Price (Ashe County).

Judd is without a doubt the leader of our basketball team. He is also a leader in the student body. He works extremely hard in the classroom and he always carries himself with class. Ashe coach Nathan Colvard

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18 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

Goodwill Women’s Basketball Student-Athlete of the Year Why she won:

amantha Woods made the Huskies’ varsity team as a freshman and was named to the all-Mountain Valley Conference team. Woods set a team record for most 3-point shots made in a season, and was the Most Valuable Player for the women’s basketball and women’s soccer teams.

She helped Ashe County to a 12-14 season, 5-9 in the MWC, and a playoﬀ berth in the state 2-A playoﬀs. Academics: Woods carries a 4.25 weighted grade point average. She is a member of the honor roll, is a representative of the freshman class and a member of the student council.

Community: Woods served as a server for the Down’s Syndrome fundraiser and has purchased and distributed Christmas gifts for Ashe County youth and senior citizens. She has sold programs for the Ashe County football games, has served as a summer counselor for girls’ basketball and has collected donations for Hoops for Hope cancer fundraising drive.

Samantha Woods - Freshman

Student –Athlete of the Year for Women’s Basketball Samantha Woods (Ashe County), left, and Dan Hovanick.

Sam made an immediate impact on our basketball team. She was a great addition to our team with her skills, but also with her outstanding work ethic and attitude. Ashe coach Laura Foster.

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Winkler Organization Cheerleading Student-Athlete of the Year Why she won:

amantha Johnson was named Ashe County’s 2016 Best All-Around for Varsity Cheer. She also earned the 2015 Team Before Self for Varsity Cheer award. Academics: Johnson had a 3.5 grade point average

and has been accepted to attend the University of South Carolina. She had the highest average for Spanish II in 2015 and the highest average in English II in 2015. Johnson also earned the 2016 Award of Excellence for the RD Program at Appalachian State University.

Community: Johnson is a part of the Memorial Day services in Ashe County and helps decorate the graves “with the upmost respect,” according to her cheerleading coach Stephanie Nichols. Johnson is also been a part of Ashe County’s Adopt a Highway program for four years.

Samantha Johnson - Senior

Student –Athlete of the Year for Cheerleading Samantha Johnson (Ashe County), left, and Tiffany Leonard.

Samantha has a passion for her sport. Her work ethic and countless hours working at home has made her one of the best cheerleaders to attend Ashe County High School. Ashe coach Stephanie Nichols

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Ross Chrysler Dodge Jeep Dance Student-Athlete of the Year Why she won:

arcy Carson has been on the squad for four years and was the Pacers’ choreographer for every dance for the football and basketball performances. She was also named Watauga’s Athlete of the Week in March 2016. She also prepared and conducted a dance clinic for youth aged 5-14.

Academics: Carson holds a 3.98 grade point average and is a member of the National Honors Society from 2014-16. She was also September Rotary Club of the Month. She was third place in Travel and Tourism in the State, 2016. She was the Student Body President at Watauga High School in 2015-16, and was the junior and sophomore class presi-

dent. Community: Carson is a Vacation Bible School teacher for preschool and school aged children. She has taken mission trips to Washington D.C. and to Ford Blanc, Hati, where she worked in an orphanage for a week. She also volunteers at Samaritan’s Purse, and has participated in the Stop Hunter Now at Watauga High School.

Darcy Carson - Senior

Student –Athlete of the Year for Dance Darcy Carson (Watauga), left, and Ben Keely.

She has a lot of leadership experience which she used to lead the Pacers to an excellent season this year. Pacers coach Laura Carson

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Abbey Carpet & Floor Men’s Cross Country Student-Athlete of the Year and 21st at the Knights Crossing Invitational.

Why he won:

atthew Hellenbrand was the Northwestern Conference individual conference champion, and led the Pioneers to the NWC conference title. He was the 4-A western regional conference champion and was fourth at the High Country Classic,

Academics: Hellenbrand has a weighted 4.54 grade point average, and is a member of the National Honor Society. He is also a member of the Delta Epsilon Phi, which is the National German Honor Society.

Community: Hellenbrand is a member of the Sustainability Club and Feeding Hospitality Service through his church youth group. He also acts as a tutor through the National Honor Society and is a member of the Watauga High School orchestra.

Matthew Hellenbrand - Senior

Student –Athlete of the Year for Men’s Cross Country Matthew Hellenbrand (Watauga), left, and Jan Winkler.

Matthew is a hardworking and caring athlete. He has a full academic schedule and still ﬁnds time to work to be successful in his sport. Watauga cross-country coach Randy McDonough

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AEV Women’s Cross Country Student-Athlete of the Year Why she won:

ara Polsgrove is a three-time allWestern Highlands Conference runner and the 2016 conference runnerup. She finished 21st in the state 1-A meet and had five Top 5 finishes in conference meets this season.

Academics: Polsgrove is a three-time Western Highlands Conference scholar athlete. She also is a member of the FCA, the Key Club, the Beta Club and carries a 4.619 weighted grade point average, which makes her second in the junior class.

Community: Polsgrove is a volunteer at the Young Life Camp in Windy Gap, and took a mission trip to Nicaragua with Young Life. She is also a volunteer at the Benner Elk Christian Fellowship. She volunteers in the nursery of the children’s church and Sunday school.

Kara Polsgrove - Junior

Student –Athlete of the Year for Women’s Cross Country Kara Polsgrove (Avery), left, and Mountain Times Publications Group Gene Fowler.

Kara will do anything that is asked of her. She will workout before school, on weekends, in bad weather, it doesn’t matter. She is a great teammate. She cheers for her own teammates and is more excited about her teammates as for her self. Avery cross-country coach, and father, Scott Polsgrove

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Chick-fil-A Football Student-Athlete of the Year Why he won:

aron Dobbins was a four-year starter and an all-Northwestern Conference quarterback for three years. He was selected to play in the EastWest All-Star Game this summer and won Watauga’s Golden Helmet, which is given to the team’s Most Valuable Player. He led the Northwestern Conference

in passing in 2013 and 2015, led the Pioneers to three straight eight-win seasons and earned a football scholarship to play at Campbell University in the fall. A two-sport athlete, Dobbins is also a three-year starter for Watauga’s basketball team. Academics: Dobbins has a 4.6 grade point average.

He was a Junior Marshall in 2015 and is a member of the National Honor Society. Community: Dobbins is a volunteer for the Stop Hunger Now and a volunteer for Hospitality House. He also volunteered every weekend during football season as a flag football coach for Watauga Parks and Recreation Department.

Aaron Dobbins - Senior

Student –Athlete of the Year for Football Aaron Dobbins (Watauga), left, and Peter Freeman.

Aaron Dobbins is the perfect example of what every student-athlete should strive for. Aaron was a two-sport athlete who excelled on the football ﬁeld and basketball court, but more importantly, he excelled in the classroom with a weighted grade point average of 4.6. Watauga football coach Ryan Habich

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 29

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30 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

Appalachian Furniture Men’s Golf Student-Athlete of the Year Why he won:

lan Graham was a 2015 all-Northwestern Conference selection, a 4-A western regional competitor and was voted the team’s most improved golfer. He was the team’s captain in 2016.

Academics: Graham has a 4.3 grade point average and was a member of the DECA Club. He was also a 2014 DECA district medalist and was an academic letter winner at Watauga.

Community: Graham was a volunteer food drive organizer. He also helped street clean up for the adopt-a-family and is a frequent volunteer to clean up the community. Graham is also a volunteer youth golf coach.

Alan Graham - Junior

Student –Athlete of the Year for Men’s Golf Alan Graham (Watauga), left, and Merle Adams.

Alan is a Best of the Preps nominee for men’s golf for a variety of reasons, but primarily because of respect and understanding of the game. He is the most talented golfer at Watauga, but is also the most humble. Watauga men’s golf coach Brett Green

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 31

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32 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

SkyLine-SkyBest Women’s Golf Student-Athlete of the Year Why she won:

arah Hardin is the two-time Mountain Valley Golfer if the Year and a three-time NCHSAA regional and state qualifier. She finished seventh in the state 2-A golf championships in 2015.

Academics: Hardin’s 4.68 weighted grade point average places her in the top five percent of her class. She is a member of the Beta Club, a member of the math honor society and secretary of the HOSA Club. Community: Hardin serves as a dance instructor for

children and also participates in the Mountain Aire Golf Club Junior Golf Clinics. She is a member of the Bald Mountain Church and helps with the Feast in the Fields Ministry each holiday season. She also participates in fundraisers for children with cancer and helps with the Skylines Childrens Annual Christmas Party.

Sarah Hardin - Junior

Student –Athlete of the Year for Women’s Golf Sarah Hardin (Ashe), left, and Karen Powell.

Sarah plays one sport at Ashe County High School and she is the absolute best female golf we have ever had (and she is only a junior). Sarah works so hard on her golf game throughout the year and it pays off. Ashe County women’s golf coach Laura Foster

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34 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

mPrints Men’s Lacrosse Student-Athlete of the Year Why he won:

en Henson was one of the leading scorers for Watauga this season. Henson led the Pioneers to a berth in the state 4-A playoﬀs this season, and during one game in the season, he scored six goals in a 15-2 win over Freedom.

Academics: Henson has a 4.45 weighted grade point average. He is a member of the National Honor Society during his junior and senior years and a Beta Club member during his junior and senior years. Henson was also nominated for the Governor’s School during his junior year.

Community: Henson has taken an international mission to Jamaica in 2013 and an urban mission to Dallas, Texas in 2012. He also took a rural mission to Eureka Springs, Ala., where he helped with the construction of a handicap ramp for senior citizens.

Ben Henson -Senior

Student –Athlete of the Year for Men’s Lacrosse Ben Henson (Watauga), left, and Mountain Times Publications Group Publisher Gene Fowler.

He is a four-year letter-winner and team leader. He balances academics, mostly AP classes, while working hard on the ﬁeld. Watauga men’s lacrosse coach Todd Allan

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36 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

Dan’l Boone Inn Women’s Lacrosse Student-Athlete of the Year Why she won:

abrielle Knight was the captain of the Pioneers this season. She earned the team’s Most Valuable Attack Player

Award. Academics: Knight has a 4.3 weighted grade point

average. She is a section leader of the Watauga Marching Band and won the Outstanding Solo Award for the band. She is also a member of the A-B Honor Roll.

Community: She volunteered with the Hebron Colony Kitchen Ministry where she helped with Thanksgiving and Christmas meals. Knight also is a member of the Presbyterian Youth Group.

Gabrielle Knight - Senior

Gabrielle Knight was awarded the Women’s Lacrosse Student-Athlete of the Year.

Gabrielle is easily the most reliable teammate on and off the ﬁeld. She is genuinely committed to lacrosse as well as helping younger players on the team achieve their goals to best of their ability. Watauga girls’ lacrosse Rachel Meadows

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 37

Dan'l Boone Inn Restaurant Welcomes You!

Congratulations to all 2016 Best of Preps Nominees & Winners! The best in Homestyle Southern Comfort food. Honored by both Southern Living Magazine & Our State Magazine for our country cuisine.

2016

Current Hours of Operation Monday - Thursday: 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Friday - Sunday: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. 130 Hardin Street Boone, NC 28607 (828) 264-8657

For over 50 years, Dan'l Boone Inn has been serving Boone and the high country delicious homecooked meals, just like you remember at grandma's house. Our family style meals begin with a salad in the summer and soup in the winter. Three meats and five vegetables are served along with biscuits, preserves, dessert and beverage. A full family stylebreakfast is served on Saturdays and Sundays.

38 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

Jeff’s Plumbing & Repair Men’s Soccer Student-Athlete of the Year Why he won:

ick Green was named all-Western Highlands Conference for two years and has been academic all-conference for four years. He also has been the

team’s Most Valuable Player the last two years. He has signed to play collegiately at Maryville College. Academics: Green has a 4.2009 weighted grade point

average. He is a member of the National Honor Society and the National Technical Honor Society. He is also a member of the Beta Club.

Nick Green - Senior

Student –Athlete of the Year for Men’s Soccer Nick Green (Avery), left and Mountain Times Publications Group Publisher Gene Fowler.

Simply stated, Nick is the best soccer player I have ever had the privilege to coach. An unquestioned leader out on the pitch and in the classroom, Nick has the unequalled work ethic and a tremendous desire to excel in all aspects of life. Avery men’s soccer coach Bruce Daniels

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 39

JP & R Inc. Jeff’s Plumbing & Repair Inc.

Commercial & Residential Water Heaters • Drain Line Cleaning Water Conditioning • Faucet Repairs Water Leak and Drain Line Repairs 828.264.5406

P.O. Box 54-DTS • Boone, NC 28607 www.jeffsplumbingandrepair.com

40 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

SageSport Women’s Soccer Student-Athlete of the Year team, Derrick signed to play at Appalachian State next fall.

Why she won:

ristin Derrick helped lead Watauga to a 10-5-2 overall record, 9-4-1 mark in the challenging Northwestern Conference. A three-year member of the varsity

ing Queen for the 2015-16 academic year. Derrick also played on the varsity basketball team this year.

Academics: Derrick has a weighted 3.963 grade point average. She was elected Homecom-

Tristin Derrick - Senior

Student –Athlete of the Year for Women’s Soccer Tristin Derrick (Watauga), left, and Gregory Resch.

Derrick is a team leader in goals despite spending most of her time at the center midﬁeld. She has signed to play at ASU next year and leads the team with good sportsmanship and encouragement. Watauga women’s soccer coach Woody McKay

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 41

2016

Sports & Outdoors

2016

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42 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

New River Building Supply and Lumber Company Women’s Softball Student-Athlete of the Year Why she won:

ora Jones hit three home runs, including a grand slam in the Huskies’ season-opener against Avery for Ashe this season. A member of the varsity since her freshman season, Jones had a plus-.900 fielding average while playing shortstop this season.

Academics: Jones carried a 3.65 grade point averages this year. She is a member of the “A” Honor Roll and was a member of the Ashe County High School Robotics Team. Community: Jones has participated in numerous community service projects with her youth

group. She also has participate in several extracurricular activities, including dance, gymnastics and competition cheerleading. Jones also has been very involved with taking care of her older sister, Tiﬀany, who was paralyzed in a car accident during her freshman year in college after attending Walters State (Tenn.), where she played softball.

Lora Jones - Sophomore

Student –Athlete of the Year for Softball Lora Jones (Ashe County), left, and Perry Yates.

Lora has started on the varsity softball team sine her ninth grade year. She has started at shortstop and has been one of our best defensive and offensive players. Ashe County softball coach Bill Key

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 43

Congratulations

TO THE ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Softball Student Athelete of the Year Nominees! •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Whether you are a professional builder or a do-it-yourself homeowner, you’re sure to find the full range of materials for your building or remodeling job...right here at New River Building Supply & Lumber Company. New River Building Supply & Lumber Company, located in Boone, NC, has been serving the High Country of North Carolina since 1973. In the spring of 2003, we added a second location in Banner Elk to better serve our customers in that region.

Serving the High Country of North Carolina since 1973.

We have knowledgeable staff at both locations who welcome your questions regarding any building supply need.Your home is probably the greatest investment you’ll ever make, and the materials you use in building or maintaining it are of vital importance. We have a huge selection of hand tools and power tools at both locations to help make each project easier. Our customers’ needs are our top priority. You can make one stop and find it all at New River Building Supply!

Come see us soon - we’re ready to serve you! Boone Location 3148 Hwy. 105 South Boone, NC 28607 828.264.5650 800.445.9732

Banner Elk Location 2340 Tynecastle Hwy. Banner Elk, NC 28604 828.898.5660

44 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

McDonald’s Men’s Swimming Student-Athlete of the Year swimming in 2016.

Why he won:

Academics: St. Clair carries a 4.6364 weighted grade point average. He is a member of the Honor Roll and is a scholar athlete. He also was a Watauga High School Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership representative.

Community: St. Clair is a workshop leader at the Boone United Methodist Church and plays guitar, piano and sings with his youth group. He also participated in the Mr. WHS Pageant fundraiser, and served as a volunteer to construct the Boone United Trail.

Price St. Clair - Sophomore

Student –Athlete of the Year for Men’s Swimming Price St. Clair (Watauga), left, Lisa Holden and Tammy Smith.

Price is an example of the ‘ﬁrst kid in, last kid out’ that coaches often refer to on a team. Rarely, he is not the ﬁrst one in the water and the most excited to see what the next set is going to be. Watauga men’s swimming coach David Gragg

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 45

CONGRATULATIONS STUDENT-ATHLETES!

46 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

High Country Insurance Women’s Swimming Student-Athlete of the Year Why she won:

aroline Forsyth was the team’s most valuable player in 2016. She was named all-Northwestern Conference for her second straight season and has been a state qualifier in her two seasons with the Pioneers. She also holds five school records

and NWC records in the 200-meter relay and the 100-meter breaststroke. Academics: Forsyth carries a 4.2917 grade point average. She is a member of the Honor Roll, is a scholar athlete and plays the viola in the

Watauga High School orchestra. Community: Forsyth is a volunteer with the Blackburn Church and also is a volunteer with the Listening Project in Todd. She also volunteers with the Elkland Art Center in Todd.

Caroline Forsyth - Sophomore

Daniel Minton, left, Student –Athlete of the Year for Women’s Swimming Caroline Forsyth (Watauga) and Vanessa Minton.

Caroline is one of the most talented swimmers I have ever coached. She pushes herself daily to get faster and stronger in the water. Watauga women’s swimming coach David Gragg

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 47

Daniel and Vanessa Minton congratulate nominees, winners and this year’s graduates.

Congratulations to All Student-Athlete Nominees (Tomorrow’s Future Leaders) High Country Insurance Services, Inc.

Serving the High Country for 33 Years! 324-10 NC 105 Extension Boone, NC 28607 828-264-3991

PERSONAL COMMERCIAL LIFE & HEALTH CLIENT SUPPORT SERVICES

48 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

Deer Valley Racquet Club Men’s Tennis Student-Athlete of the Year Why he won:

aleb Gould has been all-Northwestern Conference for the past three seasons. He was the men’s tennis Best of the Preps nominee last year and has been ac-

cepted to attend North Carolina State.

of the science club.

Academics: Gould carries a 4.45 GPA and has been accepted into the North Carolina State College of Engineering. He is also the president

Community: Adopted foster children through science club and also participates in street cleanup through the science club.

Caleb Gould - Senior

Student –Athlete of the Year for Men’s Tennis Caleb Gould (Watauga), left, and Aaron Peterson.

Caleb is a great student and athlete, which is why I chose him as one of the captains for the boys’ tennis this year. He is a great leader and is always the last to leave practice, making sure the courts and surrounding area is clean. Watauga boys’ tennis coach Taylor Kalister

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 49

DEER VALLEY RACQUET CLUB

NESTLED IN THE BEAUTIFUL BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS OF WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA IN BOONE, DEER VALLEY RACQUET CLUB IS ONE OF NORTH CAROLINA'S PREMIER TENNIS AND FITNESS FACILITIES.

Club hours:

507 Bamboo Rd. / PO Box 1188 Boone, NC 28607 828.262.3337 tennis@deervalleyracquetclub.com

Monday - Thursday: 7:00am - 9:00pm Friday: 7:00am - 8:00pm Saturday & Sunday: 8:00am - 8:00pm

50 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

Deer Valley Racquet Club Women’s Tennis Student-Athlete of the Year Why she won:

eeley Caddell was the Huskies’ No. 1 seed this season after picking up the game in her freshman season. Caddell was the team’s Most Valuable Player and the team’s captain in 2015 and was a regional qualifier in doubles in 2014. She won the Coaches Award in 2014, and was a 2014 Mountain Valley Conference doubles champion.

Academics: Caddell is a member of the Ashe County student council and is a representative of the Beta Club. She is 10th in her class with a 4.4 weighted grade point average, a member of the National Arts Society and was a Junior Marshall. Cadddell was also a recipient of the NCHSAA Scholar Athlete Award a member of the Spanish Honors Society and the Dick Miller Youth Leadership.

Community: Caddell volunteered wrapping packages and packing shoe boxes for Operation Christmas at Samaritan’s Purse. She also worked Habitat for Humanity to build a storage shed. She’s also gone on missions to Asheville through a Montreat summer camp, where she helped construct a baseball field and a volleyball sandpit for Black Mountain’s Home for children, youth and families. She also participate in Soup for Bowls.

Keeley Caddell - Freshman

Keeley Caddell was the Women’s Tennis Student-Athlete of the Year for 2016 and the team’s Most Valuable Player and the captain in 2015.

Keeley is a team leader. She is a good role model for the younger players. Ashe women’s tennis coach Larry Dix.

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 51

DEER VALLEY RACQUET CLUB

NESTLED IN THE BEAUTIFUL BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS OF WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA IN BOONE, DEER VALLEY RACQUET CLUB IS ONE OF NORTH CAROLINA'S PREMIER TENNIS AND FITNESS FACILITIES.

Club hours:

507 Bamboo Rd. / PO Box 1188 Boone, NC 28607 828.262.3337 tennis@deervalleyracquetclub.com

Monday - Thursday: 7:00am - 9:00pm Friday: 7:00am - 8:00pm Saturday & Sunday: 8:00am - 8:00pm

52 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

Everett Nissan Men’s Track and Field Student-Athlete of the Year Why he won:

atthew Hellenbrand is a two-sport athlete, who ran cross-country in the fall and track and field in the

spring. He qualified for the state finals in crosscountry and qualified for three events in the Western 4-A Regionals.

Academics: Hellenbrand is a member of the National Honor Society and carries a 4.54 weighted grade point average. He is 21st in his class of 296 and is a member of the Delta Epsilon Phi, which is the German National Honor Society.

Community: Hellenbrand has volunteered at the Hospitality House and has volunteered through his church youth group. He also has tutored students and plays in the Watauga High School orchestra.

Matthew Hellenbrand - Senior

Student –Athlete of the Year for Men’s Track and Field Matthew Hellenbrand (Watauga), left, and Jeff Jones.

Matthew is a great leader on his team. Although the season is young, he has proven to be a force in his events. Watauga men’s track and ﬁeld coach Randy McDonough

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 53

54 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

Piedmont Federal Women’s Track and Field Student-Athlete of the Year Polsgrove has also run for two relay teams and done the high jump.

Why she won:

ara Polsgrove is a state finalist in he 300-meter hurdles and finished in third place in the 1-A Western Regional. She also is ranked eighth in the state in the 3,200-meter run. She has also ran in the 100-meter dash, the 100-meter hurdles, the 300-meter hurdles, the 800-meter run, and the 1,600 and the 3,200-meter runs.

Kara Polsgrove - Junior

Student –Athlete of the Year for Women’s Track and Field Kara Polsgrove (Avery), left, and Diana Proffit.

Kara is a very versatile track athlete doing whatever event she needs to do. Avery cross-country coach Scott Polsgrove

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 55

56 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

Friendship Honda Women’s Volleyball Student-Athlete of the Year Why she won:

ydney Farthing was all-Northwestern Conference for the past two seasons while playing libero for the Pioneers. She was the Defensive Player of the Year in the NWC in 2015 and was named all Carolina Region Volleyball in the 18-under region. Farthing, in addition to playing on the

Watauga varsity girls’ basketball team for three seasons, will play collegiately at Appalachian State this fall. Academics: Farthing, who has a weighted 4.2 GPA, is a member of the National Honor Society. She also attended the DECA state convention.

Community: Farthing is a volunteer for the Special Olympics, a member of the Internaitonal Mission Team, a Perkinsville Church Youth Council Member and a member of the FCA and the AFG (Athletes for Good). She also volunteers with Operation Christmas Child by filling shoe boxes at Samaritan’s Purse and is a vacation Bible School volunteer.

Sydney Farthing - Senior

Student –Athlete of the Year for Volleyball Sydney Farthing (Watauga), left, and Jason Warren.

Sydney Farthing is my nomination for the Best of the Preps award because of the high set of standards she holds for herself, her teammates, school and community. She is a positive role model on and off he court and well respected by peers, coaches and teachers. Watauga volleyball coach Kris Hagaman

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 57

58 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

Modern Subaru Men’s Wrestling Student-Athlete of the Year will wrestle at Appalachian State in the fall.

Why he won:

yan Sheppard is a three-time state finalist, the 2016 state champion and a three-time Western Highlands Conference champion. He is also the WHC’s Wrestler of the Year for the 2016 season, and

Academics: Sheppard carries a 3.3 grade point average. He is the winner of the Science Award, the History Award and the Citizenship Award at Avery.

Community: Sheppard is a True Gospel Youth Leader, a member of the Dog Town Wrestling Club and a Samaritan’s Purse volunteer. He is involved in community cleanup and is both a wrestling and football counselor.

Ryan Sheppard - Senior

Student –Athlete of the Year for Wrestling Ryan Sheppard (Avery) , left, and Mountain Time Publications group publisher Gene Fowler.

Ryan showed true sportsmanship throughout his entire career at Avery. He was the captain of both the football and wrestling team. Avery wrestling coach Patrick Calloway

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 59

60 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

Gina Woods, left, Richard Woods, Samantha Woods and Katie Woods smile for the camera before Samantha Woods receives her Student –Athlete of the Year for Women’s Basketball during the 2016 Best of Preps award ceremony May 22.

Congratulations to All of the Nominees PITTMAN TRUCKING, INC.

LOCAL AND LONG DISTANCE SERVICE Newland, NC 828.733.2169 | 800.742.7488

Mountain Times Publications advertising director Charlie Price, left, and Ashe County High School Cross Country Coach Shane Greene share stories before the 2016 Best of Preps award ceremony May 22.

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 61

Randy McDonough, left, Matthew Hellenbrand, Jack Hellenbrand and Price St. Clair discuss the scholastic and sport accomplishments during the 2016 Best of Preps award ceremony May 22.

Roxanne Saltman, left, Judy Schwebke, Emma Saltman, Mark Saltman and Elsie Saltman share a moment before the 2016 Best of Preps award ceremony May 22.

62 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

Student athletes check in with Business and Accounting Manager Ginny Jorgenson before the event begins on May 22, 2016.

Food was provided by Loweâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Foods during the Best of Preps award banquet.

Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications 63

From left, Emma Beach, and her mother Kristie Beach, are all smiles for the camera at the Best of Preps awards banquet.

Local Coverage Where You Work, Play and Live

Your Community Newspapers

P.O. Box 335 | Elk Park, NC 28622 OfďŹ ce: 828.773.1237 Fax: 828.733.1220 Home: 828.733.5509

60 Best of Preps 2016 | Mountain Times Publications

Discovery Chevrolet Honors Student-Athletes Discovery Chevrolet Buick GMC would like to honor all of the student athletes who participated in this year's Student Athlete Awards banquet for 2016. This award ceremony is unlike athletic banquets as it is based on the whole student and future community leader, not just athletic ability. Discovery would also like to honor this year's emcee, Coach Jerry Moore, who himself was an outstanding student-athlete in high school and at Baylor University. Jerry played wide receiver for the Baylor Bears and received degrees in ﬁnance and economics. We are honored to have Coach Moore as the oﬃcial goodwill ambassador of Discovery Chevrolet Buick GMC in Boone.

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