Tyler Best Preps 2023

PRESENTS

FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

CALLIE BAILEY

MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

DAWSON PENDERGRASS

ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION AWARD FOR VOLLEYBALL Kristen

Williams

TYLER HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Kristen Williams is the type of athlete coaches hope to have participate in their program.

She is reliable, hard-working, respectful, coachable, and intrinsically motivated. It has been an honor to see how this young athlete has developed holistically as a person, student, and athlete.

While her impact is most noticeable within her team and teammates, she has also taught me a lot as a head coach through her commitment, unselfish demeanor and her persistent character.

Along with playing for the Tyler High School varsity volleyball team, Kristen is a member of Infinity Volleyball Club (IVC). She is currently a prospect of the National Honor Society and participates in our Instructional Practices Program.

While Kristen spends most of her time doing school work and improving her volleyball skills, she makes time to give back to her community by volunteering at AHS (Audiology and Hearing Care), coaching youth league volleyball, coaching Spring League Volleyball, helping with summer middle school volleyball camps, working concession stands, and much, much more for her community.

Tyler High’s Kristen Williams accepts the Altra Federal Credit Union Award for Volleyball from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and Altra Federal Credit Union’s Tammie Hosea (right). (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

M. ROBERTS DIGITAL AWARD FOR BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

M. ROBERTS DIGITAL AWARD FOR GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Brady Filla Abby Metzger

TYLER LEGACY HIGH SCHOOL GRACE COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID WHAT HER COACH SAID Brady is the captain of our boys cross country team and has done a great job leading our young group of runners. Brady is the ultimate student athlete, giving 100 percent during practice and competition as well as in the class room. He has held the No. 1 spot of his graduating class for the last 2.5 years. He is everything you want in a leader and embodies the perfect role model who makes the people around him better.

Abby is an extremely hardworking and dedicated student- athlete. She was an example of being both committed to cross country and academics. She is involved in various school activities outside of athletics and cross country. She led the girls cross country team to a second-place finish this year at the TAPPS

5A State Cross Country Championships. Individually, Abby won her second state championship and place on the All-State Team.

Tyler Legacy’s Brady Filla (center) accepts the M. Roberts Digital Award for Boys Cross Country from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and M. Roberts Digital and M. Roberts Digital Vice President of Technology Bret Jacomet on Tuesday during Best Preps Tyler 2023 presented by Peters Autosports at Green Acres Baptist Crosswalk Center. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Grace Community’s Abby Metzger accepts the M. Roberts Digital Award for Girls Cross Country from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and Tyler Morning Telegraph Publisher and M. Roberts Media Senior Vice President Justin Wilcox on Tuesday during Best Preps Tyler 2023 presented by Peters Autosports at Green Acres Baptist Crosswalk Center. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Presented by red carpet sponsor

Presented by red carpet sponsor

AWARD FOR BOYS POWERLIFTING

AWARD FOR GIRLS POWERLIFTING

Payton Campbell Mia Zuniga

TYLER HIGH SCHOOL TYLER LEGACY HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

WHAT HER COACH SAID Payton has competed in the Powerlifting program for 4 years, earning regional berths three times.

We have enjoyed having Payton in our program. He has competed well and has been a key member of our powerlifting team.

Not only does Payton have a great Grade Point Average, but he is a membe of the National Honor Society, and National Technical Honor Society.

Payton also competed on the Lions football team where he made All-District 7-5A Division I honorable mention.

Payton volunteers throughout the Tyler community. He has served countless hours volunteering at the East Texas Food Bank.

Mia Zuniga won the 114-pound class at the Texas High School Women’s Powerlifting Association State Meet in Frisco with a total of 885 pounds, which was a state record. She also set the squat record at 370 pounds and the bench record of 215 pounds. Mia is a three-time Region 3 champion in the 114-pound class. She has three out of the four Region 3 records and broke her own records from 2022. She has the regional record in squat (370), bench (225) and total weight (870 pounds). Mia is the ambassador for Red Raider powerlifting. She has shown dedication to this sport as well as keeping up with her grades and participating in cross country. Her dedication and determination is something that has greatly impacted Tyler Legacy powerlifting.

Tyler High’s Payton Campbell (center) accepts the ETX View Magazine Award for Boys Powerlifting from Alyssa Purselley-Hankins (left), M. Roberts Media East Texas Regional Advertising Director, and TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (right) on Tuesday during Best Preps Tyler 2023 presented by Peters Autosports at Green Acres Baptist Crosswalk Center. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Tyler Legacy’s Mia Zuniga (center) accepts the ETX View Magazine Award for Girls Powerlifting from Alyssa Purselley-Hankins (left), M. Roberts Media East Texas Regional Advertising Director, and TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (right) on Tuesday during Best Preps Tyler 2023 presented by Peters Autosports at Green Acres Baptist Crosswalk Center. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Presented by red carpet sponsor

Presented by red carpet sponsor

TEXAS BANK AND TRUST

AWARD FOR BOYS BASKETBALL

Garrett Nuckolls

BULLARD HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID Garrett is my hardestworking player when it comes to the sport of basketball. This may not mean much knowing I am his dad, but he is probably the best player I have ever coached in my 17 years as a head coach. His basketball IQ is far superior to those around him but he tries to give as much to them as he can. He makes everyone on the court better. He helps give them the confidence they need to be successful.

BASKETBALLA

BOYS BWARD Sp yt

ponsoredby TexasBankand Trus

G A RRE TT NUCKOLLS

BullardH igh School

Bullard’s Garrett Nuckolls (center) accepts the Texas Bank and Trust Award for Boys Basketball from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and Zach Gilbert of Texas Bank and Trust. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Presented by red carpet sponsor

TEXAS

BANK AND TRUST AWARD FOR GIRLS BASKETBALL

DJ Kincade

CHAPEL HILL HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

DJ is a special person as well as a student- athlete. She has been a four-year varsity basketball player and a three-year varsity starter. She also is a part of the National Technical Honor Society as well as being an active in our little dribblers program helping with our youth. She is also committed to continue her education and basketball career at Blinn College. DJ is well deserving of this award.

BASKETBALL A

GIRLS BAWARD Sp yt

Sponsoredby TexasBankand Trus

DJ KINC ADE

Chapel Hill High School

Chapel Hill’s DJ Kincade (center) accepts the Texas Bank and Trust Award for Girls Basketball from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and Jason Trimble of Texas Bank and Trust. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Presented by red carpet sponsor

WHITEHOUSE HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

Ethan is a model studentathlete. He is highly involved in many different things including sports, medical rotations, FCA, NHS, and was recently named a top 10 student by his teachers. He has signed a scholarship to play baseball at UT Tyler and also was a starter on the football team. He carries a high GPA and is exactly what you want in a student-athlete. He is coming off a seasonending injury last year, and has battled his way back to be one of the area’s top arms.

Presented by red carpet sponsor

Bailey is a multi-sport athlete and is currently ranked No. 2 in her class. She is one of the most coachable players I have ever had the pleasure of coaching. She is kind to everyone and is willing to outwork anyone in all of our programs. She is kind-hearted and always takes time to acknowledge the younger kids in our community that look up to her. She is not only a talented athlete, but she is a very bright and dedicated student, that is always setting a good example for those to follow. She is a natural born leader with an excellent head on her shoulders. Her teammates would follow her through fire if that’s what she asked of them. I have had the pleasure of knowing Bailey as an athlete, student and as someone that I trust the safety and wellbeing of my children with. Bailey has a very bright future ahead of her and is very deserving of such an honor as this.

Bailey Blanton (center) accepts the Southwest Carpet One Softball Award from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and Tyler Morning Telegraph Publisher and M. Roberts Media Senior Vice President Justin Wilcox. (Jennifer

M. ROBERTS DIGITAL AWARD FOR BOYS SOCCER

Luke Neely

WHITEHOUSE HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

Luke is exactly what you want your best player to act like. He is a leader on and off the field. He is coachable and loves to practice just as much as he does to play in the games. He is a leader for the younger players and is a true coach on the field.

M. ROBERTS DIGITAL AWARD FOR GIRLS SOCCER

Niyah Gee

BULLARD HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

There are very few athletes that catch an eye of spectators within seconds of the start of a match, Niyah falls within that few. She is a very special, high character, coachable, flighty, fantastically skilled player that appears to be indestructible as her opponents try to stop her.

Niyah may be a freshman, but she is is currently tied for the most goals on the team with 20 goals and nine assists with three regular season matches left (who has tremendously helped us into a firstplace spot in district). She is not only an outstanding athlete with superior ability, but her teammates have also voted for her as a teammate that has made the most positive impact on and off the field for their team, whom has also never missed a game or practice. They see her as a joy and a positive light on the team.

Whitehouse’s Luke Neely accepts the M. Roberts Digital Award for Boys Soccer from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and Tyler Morning Telegraph Publisher M. Roberts Media Senior Vice President Justin Wilcox. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Bullard’s Niyah Gee accepts the M. Roberts Digital Award for Girls Soccer from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and Tyler Morning Telegraph Publisher and M. Roberts Media Senior Vice President Justin Wilcox. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Presented by red carpet sponsor

Presented by red carpet sponsor

AWARD FOR BOYS GOLF

Jacob Cole

TYLER LEGACY HIGH SCHOOL

Congrats athletes on a successful season!

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

It is a tremendous honor and privilege to write this nomination for Best Preps. Without a doubt this student/ player has grown from being a regular student his freshman year to an outstanding student that epitomizes the very best in leadership, commitment to excellence and being a team player on campus and off.

Previous years he and his dad have helped in the First Tee program of Greater Tyler. He works with other students in starting and maintaining a fitness program that will benefit them now and in the future.

Jacob has been giving time to help others on the golf course on their swings and course strategy.

Tyler Legacy’s Jacob Cole (center) accepts the UT Health East Texas Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute Award for Boys Golf from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and Don McKay of UT Health East Texas Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

D. Scott Devinney, DO Orthopedics &Trauma

Clayton Hodges, MD Orthopedics &Sports Medicine

Rebecca Peebles, DO Primary CareSports Medicine

AWARD FOR GIRLS GOLF KyAmbria

Acy

TYLER LEGACY HIGH SCHOOL

What is Pr imar yCare Spor ts Medicine?

OurGoal

We strive to getour patients back to an active,healthy lifestyle, without discomfort or risk of re-injury.Byproperlyidentifying, treatingand preventing injuries,wehope to maximize your athletic performance and helpyou achieveyourgoals.

WHAT HER COACH SAID

KyAmbria is a very caring and sweet young lady. She is a hard worker and loves golf. She has been on the varsity team since she was a freshman. She is a joy to work with as she also comes out and works with the younger players. KyAmbria helps the homeless at the champagne house in Lindale. She volunteers to teach golf to the little kids at Hollytree Country Club and at the First Tee of Greater Tyler. KyAmbria recently helped the Lady Raiders win the District 106A golf championship and she was runner-up medalist.

OurServices& Treatments

OurTeam

PrimaryCareSports Medicine

Board-certified physicians offer nonsurgical solutionsfor sports and exercise-relatedinjuries

Presented by red carpet sponsor

2023

Musculoskeletal

InjectionTherapy

MedicalIllness

Tyler Legacy’s KyAmbria Acy (center) accepts the UT Health East Texas Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute Award for Girls Golf from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and Don McKay of UT Health East Texas Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH AWARD FOR BOYS TRACK & FIELD

Isaac Natera

BISHOP THOMAS K. GORMAN CATHOLIC SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

Bishop Gorman senior Isaac Natera has participated in track and field since the sixth grade and now as a senior captain will have led his team for seven straight years. Isaac constantly sets the bar high for his peers by his love and dedication, often training extra outside the normal practice times all while balancing his academic schedule and a part-time job. His hard work has paid off and he will bring his talents and passion to the University of Texas at Tyler cross country and track teams in the fall of 2023.

TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH AWARD FOR GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

Christiana Ussery

LINDALE HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID Christiana is an exceptional student and teammate. She truly embodies what a student-athlete is by excelling in the classroom and competing well as a multisport athlete. She is very balanced in her life with all that she competes in, and yet still has success in what she does.

2023

Lindale’s Christiana Ussery (center) accepts the Tyler Morning Telegraph Award for Girls Track and Field from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and M. Roberts Media and M. Roberts Digital Vice President of Technology Bret Jacomet. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Bishop Gorman’s Isaac Natera (center) accepts the Tyler Morning Telegraph Award for Boys Track and Field from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and M. Roberts Media and M. Roberts Digital Vice President of Technology Bret Jacomet. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Presented by red carpet sponsor

Presented by red carpet sponsor

AWARD FOR BOYS TENNIS

Jordan Craft

WHITEHOUSE HIGH SCHOOL

ETX VIEW MAGAZINE AWARD FOR GIRLS TENNIS Lauren

Kiblinger

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

Jordan is a leader on the tennis team, at school and in the community. His work ethic is beyond reproach, but his character is his standout quality. Beyond his success and achievements, he has heart to help others that makes him a candidate for this award.

TYLER ALL SAINTS EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Lauren is well deserving of the Best Preps Award. She is the twotime defending TAPPS 4A State Champion in singles. Not only is Lauren a terrific tennis player, but she is role model team captain and teammate. As the recipient of the 2022 TAPPS 4A Sportsmanship Award, Lauren always wins and loses with grace and class.

Whitehouse’s Jordan Craft (center) accepts the ETX View Magazine Award for Boys Tennis from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and M. Roberts Media and M. Roberts Digital Vice President of Technology Bret Jacomet. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

All Saints’ Lauren Kiblinger (center) accepts the ETX View Magazine Award for Girls Tennis from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and M. Roberts Media East Texas Regional Advertising Director Alyssa Purselley-Hankins. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Presented by red carpet sponsor

Presented by red carpet sponsor

M.

ROBERTS DIGITAL AWARD FOR CHEERLEADING Morgan Salitore

BISHOP T.K. GORMAN CATHOLIC SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Morgan Salitore is an outstanding athlete, student and ambassador. I have worked with her in middle and high school and her work ethic is impeccable. She is kind and considerate to others and always strives to be her best. She is a strong leader and motivates the team when we need a little more encouragement. Morgan has an outgoing, positive attitude and a vivacious personality. She never misses a practice, game or event and is always the last person cleaning up. I could not be more thrilled to nominate her and thank her for the hard work, determination and passion that she has put into our cheer program.

M. ROBERTS DIGITAL AWARD FOR LACROSSE

Carter McLaughlin

WHITEHOUSE HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

Carter has recently joined us from California this summer. He has proven himself capable of being selected for varsity play and has inspired others to improve their game as well. He also advocated lacrosse to his football and wrestling friends at Whitehouse and since then, we have gained five more players on the team. He is constantly working hard and has a great attitude that will only help him in his endeavors through life. He was also the Class 5A state runner-up in wrestling in the 138-pound weight class.

Bishop Gorman’s Morgan Salitore (center) accepts the M. Roberts Digital Award for Cheerleading from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and M. Roberts Media and M. Roberts Digital Vice President of Technology Bret Jacomet. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Whitehouse’s Carter McLaughlin (center) accepts the M. Roberts Digital Award for Lacrosse from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and M. Roberts Media and M. Roberts Digital Vice President of Technology Bret Jacomet. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Presented by red carpet sponsor

Presented by red carpet sponsor

TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH AWARD FOR BOYS SWIMMING

Michael Green

GRACE COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

Michael Green is my Best Preps nominee because of his outstanding character, leadership, athleticism and his competitiveness. He is very easy to coach and will do everything he can to improve his technique, power and stamina.

Michael led the Grace Community boys swim team to four consecutive first-place team finishes at regionals, one firstplace state title, two runner-up finishes at state and one fifth-place finish at state. He won the top regional swimmer two out of four years. He was named first-team All-State (TISCA) in both the 50 freestyle and 100 breaststroke. This year, in TAPPS, he was named second-team All-State with second-place finishes at state in both the 50 freestyle and 100 breaststroke. Michael encourages his teammates not only in swimming, but also in academics. His academic abilities have landed him a spot on the Academic All-State team the last two years. Michael has also been a very active member of National Honor Society for the past two years and is in the Distinguished Scholars Program. He spends several hours per week tutoring students in several different subjects. Another one of Michael’s leadership duties

being a Life Group leader at Grace Community School,

weekly meetings with peers and faculty to assist in planning and execution of events and service projects. Michael is also a very active member of the Green Acres Baptist Church youth

TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH AWARD FOR GIRLS SWIMMING

Blakely Roseberry

GRACE COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

She has been team captain for the past four years and resolves problems and situations within the team many times before I even hear about them. She is extremely honest and dependable and completes tasks well before deadlines. She is also an excellent role model. She gives 100 percent at each practice, is rarely late for 5:45 a.m. practices and cheers for her teammates during every race. Blakely is the first to compliment her teammates when they have had a good practice and is not afraid to confront the team when a practice was not ‘up to the standard.’ Blakely also helps with the junior high swim team. She helps get them organized at meets, runs warm-ups at meets, gives them tips on technique and racing strategy and is constantly encouraging them to go faster than they think they can go. Because of Blakely, the Grace Community girls swim team has been able to be one of the top three private schools in Texas for the past four years.

Roseberry

2023

includes

which involves

group. He would be an excellent recipient for the Best Preps Swimming Award.

Grace Community’s Michael Green (center) accepts the Tyler Morning Telegraph Award for Boys Swimming from Alyssa Purselley-Hankins (left), M. Roberts Media East Texas Regional Advertising Director, and TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (right). (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Blakely Roseberry is my Best Preps nominee because she is the true definition of a leader.

Not only is she an excellent athlete, she is an incredible communicator and encourager.

Blakely

is the perfect candidate to receive the Best Preps award.

Grace Community’s Blakely Roseberry accepts the Tyler Morning Telegraph Award for Girls Swimming from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and Tyler Morning Telegraph Publisher and M. Roberts Media Senior Vice President Justin Wilcox. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Presented by red carpet sponsor

Presented by red carpet sponsor

Sofia Benedict

BISHOP THOMAS K. GORMAN CATHOLIC SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Sofia began to show interest in athletic training her freshman year. For the first two years, she absorbed all she could about the profession, even to the point of wanting to pursue it after graduation.

This past summer, we were hit with an unfortunate set of circumstances and would not have an athletic trainer for the school year. This would stunt the growth of the student trainer program and put our summer camps and school sports programs in a bind. Fortunately, we would receive help with rotating trainers, not having someone full time would put us in a bind. Out of pure selflessness, Sofia committed to being on campus all summer. She would set up water stations for the activities going on, would set up supplies needed for the sidelines for the teams, and make sure everything was clean and orderly in the training room. She set up ice baths, disinfected commonly used areas in the training room and aided the trainers that rotated in and out through summer. She took her service commitment even further by traveling with the football teams during the season and being available whenever asked at other home sporting events. She was truly a model for generosity, selflessness and dedication for her school. Not surprisingly, Sofia

Josh Hayes

BISHOP THOMAS K. GORMAN CATHOLIC SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

when there was a need. Over these last few years, she has grown up to be extremely loyal, reliable and steadfast in all she does. She takes her responsibilities seriously and does an amazing job keeping up with that she does. I am so grateful to her for everything she has done.

to

Josh has been a team captain for each of his years wrestling. He coaches and officiates youth wrestling and is active in promoting the sport in East Texas. His career record was 109-44. He placed fourth in Maryland as a freshman, third in Texas as a junior and second in Texas as a senior. (COVID-19 canceled his sophomore year). His senior year, he entered nine tournaments — won five, second in three, and third at one. He earned

Outstanding Wrestler

awards at two of those.

didn’t hesitate

help

Bishop Gorman’s Sofia Benedict (center) accepts the ETX View Student Athletic Trainer Award from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and M. Roberts Media East Texas Regional Advertising Director Alyssa Purselley-Hankins. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Bishop Gorman’s Josh Hayes (center) accepts the ETX View Award for Wrestling from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and M. Roberts Media East Texas Regional Advertising Director Alyssa Purselley-Hankins. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Presented by red carpet sponsor

Presented by red carpet sponsor

TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH BASS FISHING Haley

Bryand

ARP HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Haley Bryand has proven to be one of the best students to ever walk the halls at Arp ISD. Her accomplishments are innumerable, but it is her character, honesty, dedication to service and humility that truly sets her apart. Haley actively leads various activities at Arp High School. Haley holds high praise from her classmates as is evident by the various offices she has been elected to. Her greatest trait is how she lets her light shine for Christ. The entire Arp ISD school community is better because of the impact made by Haley Bryand.

TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH DRILL TEAM

Brianna Martin

CHAPEL HILL HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Brianna Martin moved to Chapel Hill from Japan halfway through her freshman year when her parents retired from the U.S. Air Force.

She enrolled in January, and that was the year we never came back from spring break due to COVID-19. She had to try out for drill team virtually and had the intrinsic motivation to prepare herself to try her hand at something she had never done before, and she made the team. From the get-go, I could tell that Brianna was going to go far in our program. She has a work ethic like no other, and she goes above and beyond for her coaches, teammates and friends every single day. She is extremely creative and is my go-to girl for creating graphics for various fundraising or performance events we put on throughout the year. As a senior this year, she assisted in teaching our junior high drill team students to help them prepare for their own tryouts, and she held practice sessions at her home that went late into the night to help out and encourage students trying out for high school drill team for the first time. She has a heart of gold

Arp’s Haley Bryand accepts the Tyler Morning Telegraph Award for Bass Fishing from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and Tyler Morning Telegraph Publisher and M. Roberts Media Senior Vice President Justin Wilcox. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

and would give absolutely anyone the shirt off her back.

Chapel Hill’s Brianna Martin (center) accepts the Tyler Morning Telegraph Award for Drill Team from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and Tyler Morning Telegraph Publisher and M. Roberts Media Senior Vice President Justin Wilcox. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Presented by red carpet sponsor

Presented by red carpet sponsor

AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT ACADEMICS Audrey Brody

WHITEHOUSE HIGH SCHOOL WHAT HER COACH SAID

Audrey has a GPA of 108.659. Audrey is a two-year member of the Whitehouse varsity girls basketball program and was elected captain this season by her teammates. Unlike many athletes I have coached in the past, Audrey takes tremendous pride in her role as a captain.

She is what we refer to as an ‘energy giver’, a person who remains positive and encouraging at all times and therefore is able to be a positive force in times of adversity. First and foremost, Audrey understands the importance of leading by example and attacks each day to improve not only individually, but more importantly to her, the team’s success. She listens intently to her teammates and coaches, channels a competitive demeanor to drive our team and values above all else sacrifice for the good of the team. With four freshmen in our varsity program this season, Audrey guided them on a daily basis to fight through frustration and adversity. Her leadership was key to our growth this season and having her back in this role next season will prove to be invaluable. Her maturity and focus create a level of dependability between her and our team. She models on a daily basis the approach needed to perform at a high level. Audrey is truly the standard when it comes to defining a student-athlete. She balances a rigorous academic schedule while being highly involved in community service with her church and our Whitehouse community. Audrey’s impact on our program, Whitehouse High School and the community has been one of great inspiration and I am excited to see the success she will experience in her senior year.

TYLER JUNIOR COLLEGE COACH, NATIONAL CHAMPION

TRENIA TILLIS HOARD DELIVERS MESSAGE FOR STUDENT-ATHLETES

Trenia Tillis Hoard, who led the Tyler Junior College Apache Ladies to the 2022 national basketball championship and who is former Miss Texas Basketball, served as the keynote speaker for the 2023 Best Preps Tyler, presented by Peters Autosports. Best Preps was held April 25 at The Green Acres Baptist Church Crosswalk Center and had more than 750 people in attendance.

and 12 rebounds as a senior. She was a four-time All-State selection and was named Miss Texas Basketball in 1989.

Tillis Hoard led the Apache Ladies to a 28-8 overall record in 2022 to win the national championship, and became the first African American women’s head coach to win the title.

Tillis Hoard was named the Coach of the Tournament after Tyler defeated Georgia Highlands, 92-80, in the championship game at the Rip Griffin Center in Lubbock.

During the 2021-22 season, Tillis Hoard achieved her 500th career coaching win on Feb. 9, 2022, a 75-72 win over rival Kilgore College in Kilgore.

When Tillis came to TJC in 2001, she was the first Black female coach in Region XIV, one of the few in the nation. Now, two of her former assistant coaches, who also are Black, are in the league as head coaches (Precious Ivy at Trinity Valley Community College and Chelsea Hudson at Panola College).

Tillis Hoard and her 2021-22 staff of Hudson and Brianna Brooks became the first all-Black, all-female staff to win an NJCAA national championship.

Prior to her tenure at TJC, Tillis Hoard served as an assistant coach at the University of Arkansas for four seasons from 1996-97 through 19992000.

Her playing career at Stephen F. Austin State University from 199091 through 1993-94 forged her into a three-time all-Southland Conference selection, including earning 1994 Southland Conference Player of the Year honors.

Tillis Hoard not only led the Apache Ladies to the NJCAA Division I women’s national title, but also was named the NJCAA Coach of the Year for 2022 as well as the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches top JUCO Coach in Texas. At the event, Tillis Hoard proudly displayed her ring to the crowd and said, “my Lord and Savior put a ring on it.”

Also, Tillis Hoard, a former Grapeland High School star, was elected by Texas Association of Basketball Coaches to be a member of the Class of 2023 Texas High School Basketball Hall of Fame. The

induction ceremony will be part of the annual TABC Clinic on May 20 in San Antonio.

Tillis Hoard was a four-year starter at Grapeland High School for Hall of Fame Coach Don Tullos (freshman through junior) and Coach Chuck Bailey (senior). She led the Sandiettes to back-to-back state tournament appearances in 1987-88 and 1988-89, winning the championship in 1989.

Tillis Hoard averaged 25 points and 16 rebounds per game as a freshman, 29 points and 18 rebounds as a sophomore, 35 points and 15 rebounds as a junior, and 27 points

She continued her career professionally in Spain before returning to Texas to coach.

Also, she has been recognized as one of the top 100 high school basketball players in the state of Texas by the University Interscholastic League as part of their celebration of 100 years of high school basketball in the state.

“In life, it’s not about what I did … but what he did. But God,” Tillis Hoard said during her speech.

Her daughter, Senoj Jones, is a sophomore at Tyler Legacy High School. She is starting to turn into a star on the basketball court.

Her husband, Rogerick Hoard is an executive chef.

Whitehouse’s Audrey Brody (center) accepts the ETX View Award for Outstanding Academics from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and M. Roberts Media East Texas Regional Advertising Director Alyssa PurselleyHankins. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Presented by red carpet sponsor

Trenia Tillis Hoard

ladycats girls Basketball Team

WHITEHOUSE HIGH SCHOOL

Emotion, grittiness and sportsmanship were on full display between the Tyler Lady Lions and Whitehouse LadyCats on Feb. 3.

The rivals fought tooth-and-nail throughout before the Lady Lions gradually pulled away in the second half of the District 15-5A girls basketball game at the Lions Den in Tyler. Then with a few minutes remaining, Tyler Coach Amber Wiley inserted her senior, Kamora Jackson, who had missed the previous 33 games with an ACL injury.

With the outcome decided, Whitehouse Coach Jay Fitts instructed his team to turn the ball over to give Jackson one more opportunity to score.

Kiana Thornton turned the ball over so Jackson had a shot. Thornton and Jackson embraced and after the throw-in, Jackson swished a 3-pointer in the Lady Lions’ 55-31 win.

When the ball went through the net the crowd roared.

“It was such an emotional night,” said Jackson, who, along with five other Lady Lions, were honored on Senior Night before the game. “I was determined to score. What wonderful sportsmanship by Whitehouse and their players and coaches. I can’t thank them enough. I am so grateful to Whitehouse and to my teammates.”

Members of Coach Fitts’ team includes: sophomore Kiana Thornton, junior Malazia Pardue, freshman Tayla Morris, freshman Mahayla McMahon, freshman Savannah Onley, senior Massila Kadi, junior Audrey Brody, junior Kate Jones, sophomore Hailey Morrison and freshman Indeya Williams.

Fitts’ assistant coaches are Regan Smith, Toy Wilson and Stacey Hendrix.

The Whitehouse High School LadyCats Girls Basketball team. The Whitehouse team includes: sophomore Kiana Thornton, junior Malazia Pardue, freshman Tayla Morris, freshman Mahayla McMahon, freshman Savannah Onley, senior Massila Kadi, junior Audrey Brody, junior Kate Jones, sophomore Hailey Morrison and freshman Indeya Williams.

EAST TEXAS PROFESSIONAL CREDIT UNION AWARD FOR COMMUNITY EXCELLENCE Natalie Contstante

BULLARD HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Middle School

Natalie is our Varsity girls team captain for the past two years. She is very coachable and is a great leader to all underclassmen and Bullard High School’s Natalie Constante, winner of the East Texas Professional Credit Union Award for Community Excellence. (Courtesy Photo)

tennis players. She works, volunteers, takes lessons, clinics, and maintains a high GPA and class rank.

She has goals to become a Marine Biologist and has been accepted to The University of Florida and Texas A&M.

I have been coaching at the club level and in school districts for 21 years, and there is absolutely no one who compares to Natalie and her work ethic and leadership and drive. She has helped turn the Bullard ISD Tennis program into a competitive and wellrespected program. I recommend her in the highest way and honor possible.

Has over 100 volunteer hours this school year:

• Colonial Hills Baptist Church — built set pieces for God’s Kids performances;

• UM Army Camp — constructed wheelchair ramps on specific properties;

• Tennis — helped coach Middle School Tennis kids at matches;

• Nicholas Pet Haven — cleaned kennels, took dogs on walks, bathed, and fed the animals;

• Bullard Southern Baptist Church — was a group leader and played with the children during their VBS week;

• Three Lakes Middle School — helped the librarian reshelve and organize the entire library for beginning of school, and aided a teacher in setting up classroom for meet the teacher;

• Bullard High School - led groups of freshman around the high school to introduce them to where their classes would be and excite them about the year;

• First Baptist of Bullard — cooked hotdogs, popcorn, and cotton candy for the children during their Easter family event;

• Freedom 5k — passed out water bottles to the runners participating in the race;

• Bullard Primary School — worked at Christmas rotations for the kids to wins tickets for prizes.

• Followed Dr. Ramsey and his team at Tyler Animal Clinic while they completed daily animal wellness exams, endoscopies, laparoscopic spays, and x-rays.

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PETERS AUTOSPORTS

ATHLETIC DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR

Luke Blackwell

MINEOLA HIGH SCHOOL

Mineola’s Luke Blackwell is the 2022-23 Best Preps Athletic Director of the Year.

The Mineola program was in contention in all sports and

entering the final month of competition, the Yellowjackets are in eighth place in the Lone Star Cup.

Thus far the Lady ‘Jacketrs won the district

volleyball with the best record in school history.

With Class 3A Player of the Year and the All-Rose Country Player of the Year Dawson Pendergrass, Coach Blackwell led the Mineola football team to a fourth place in District 5-3A Division I and the Yellowjackets upset Jefferson, the District 6-5A Division I champion, in bi-district.

The Lady ‘Jackets basketball team finished fourth in district and captured bi-district and area playoff wins before falling to eventual state tournament representative Winnsboro in the third round of the postseason.

In boys basketball, Mineola set a school record by advancing all the way to the regional finals. The Yellowjackets finished second in district and won four playoff games.

In powerlifting, Mineola had multiple regional quarterfinals and Shylah Kratzmeyer finished fifth in the girls state meet.

The Lady ‘Jackets won the district golf championship.

In his six years as head coach of the football Yellowjackets, Mineola has made the playoffs five times including a district championship in 2020.

Blackwell, a 1995 graduate of Mineola High School, was named athletic director and head football coach of the Mineola Yellowjackets in March 2017.

Prior to being named AD and head football coach, Blackwell was assistant head coach and defensive coordinator for the past five seasons, the most recent three being the most successful years in Yellowjackets history.

Mineola reached three straight state semifinals, including two state title games and one memorable championship in 2016.

During his time as defensive coordinator, the Yellowjackets allowed 16 points per game, outscoring opponents by 22.9 points per game.

Blackwell returned to Mineola in 2008, first joining the athletic department as head boys track coach for nine seasons.

As track coach, the Yellowjackets won six straight district championships, two area titles, one regional title and a state championship in the 1,600-meter relay in 2015. 2023

The Peters Autosports Athletic Director of the Year went to Mineola’s Luke Blackwell. Presenting the honor were TJC women’s basketball coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and Chris Smith of Peters Autosports. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

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Luke Blackwell

PETERS AUTOSPORTS COACH OF THE YEAR Greg Branch

WHITEHOUSE HIGH SCHOOL

Greg Branch, Whitehouse High School Baseball

Greg Branch has made his mark on multiple East Texas baseball programs over the years. He was at Cayuga, Arp, Frankston and Oakwood before landing at Whitehouse in 2019.

His first season with the Wildcats was cut short due to COVID-19 in 2020.

In 2021, Whitehouse went 25-7 and lost in the bi-district round of the playoffs. In 2022, the Wildcats went 22-12. They swept their bi-district series with Texas High (7-1, 3-1) and were on to the area round.

But before Whitehouse’s series with Corsicana, Branch found out he was going to have to have emergency surgery and would be unable to attend the games.

The Wildcats were eliminated in the area round of the playoffs and the season was over. Branch is back on the field for the Wildcats this season as they were 20-3 and ranked No. 2 in Class 5A by the Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association as of April 6.

Several of the Whitehouse baseball players have signed or committed to play in college.

AWARD FOR HEART AND DESIRE

Mikyla Bachert

VAN HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Mikyla is a winner on and off the court. She has overcome injuries to pursue her passion and her love of the game of basketball. She is an extension of the coach on the court and in the locker room.

She knows how to help create a ‘champion’ culture with high standards, character and no drama. She is self driven yet looks to bring others with her. She is an ‘outlier’. Mikyla has been a gym rat her whole life. She has worked very hard at her craft. At 18 months old, it was discovered that Mikyla had very poor vision. After a year of rigorous and consistent eye therapy, it was deemed necessary that she have eye surgery. In fact, it required two more surgeries on

her eyes in her younger years and her prescription was so bad they didn’t make contact lenses to fulfill the prisms required to help her eyes to work together. She didn’t care, she played with thick glasses, which oftentimes broke and had to be taped when she played basketball leading up to high school. Her eyes responded well enough to be able to get contacts her freshman year, but that didn’t go without a glitch. At the routine eye exam during basketball preseason, her eyes had to be dilated and when they returned to “normal”, she saw double. That didn’t stop Mikyla from practicing with her team. At times, she would make a bad pass because she guessed by throwing it to the “wrong” person of the double vision. This lasted for a few days. She continued to go to school and practice

with her team. As a freshman and new to her school, she was slated to be the starting point guard. Then, at a Christmas tournament, she injured her knee. After having it tested, she fought through the pain to rehab it to continue her season. When released to play again, she made a cut in pre-game warm-ups, which revealed her ACL was actually torn. Mikyla had surgery, did her rehab but continued to support her team by attending all of the practices and games. This is a team that went to the regional semifinals. She was determined to regain her form and come back better than before her injury. She searched YouTube and found a seated ball handling routine done by an older athlete in a similar situation. Mikyla was dedicated to her rehab, and she was ready for her sophomore year. Mikyla’s ,om accepted an assistant coaching position at a 5A. Once again slated to be her team’s starting point guard as a sophomore, she tore the ACL on her other knee a couple games into the season. Rather than ask ‘Why me?’, she responded with a ‘Why not me?’ A couple days after surgery, Mikyla could be found sitting on the gym floor doing ball handling with her crutches next to her. As a junior, again with a new team with her mom as a head coach and coming off a summer of rehab, Mikyla had to have a ‘clean up’ meniscus surgery that was discovered at the end of her ACL rehab. Mikyla was tasked with leading her team in scoring, introducing ‘champion’ habits and getting her teammates involved. For her efforts, she was named a team captain and she earned team MVP, All-District Newcomer of the Year and honorable Mention All-East Texas. As a senior, with yet another new team (her mom once again elevated herself to a head coaching job at a 4A, Van) After gaining the respect of her teammates through the preseason, Mikyla was voted as one of the team captains. Mikyla earned a basketball scholarship to play at Cameron University next year. She also earned the prestigious National ROTC Scholarship to attend the university of her choice in the nation that has an ROTC program. She is considering participating in this rigorous program while also playing college basketball.

The Peters Autosports Coach of the Year Award went to Whitehouse baseball coach Greg Branch. Presenting the honor were TJC women’s basketball coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and Chris Smith of Peters Autosports. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Van’s Mikyla Bachert (center) accepts the Heart & Desire Award from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and Tyler Morning Telegraph Publisher and M. Roberts Media Senior Vice President Justin Wilcox. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Chesni Speaker

JACKSONVILLE HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HER COACH SAID

Chesni is the epitome of STUDENT athlete. She works so hard on the field but her level of effort in the classroom and the community is unmatched. She is a great teammate, always puts others first, and celebrates everyone else’s success just as she would her own.

Chesni is a great leader as she has been voted captain by her peers in three different sports. She seeks out opportunities to be a friend but also is not scared to hold her peers accountable.

Chesni has countless volunteer hours:

• Mission trip 2021

• Mission trip 2022

• Vacation Bible School (2020-2022)

• Little League Volleyball Coach

• Operation Christmas Child (2020-2022)

• Central Baptist Trunk or Treat 2020-2022

• Powerlifting meet 2023

• Middle school small group church leader 2021-2023

• Sesquicentennial petting zoo volunteer 2022

• Nursing Home volunteer 2022

• JHS Teacher Breakfast volunteer.

Jacksonville’s Chesni Speaker (second from left)) accepts the Kona Ice Going the Extra Mile Award from TJC Coach Trenia Tillis Hoard (left) and Tara Hargrove and Justin Hagrove of Kona Ice. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

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TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH AWARD FOR INSPIRATION

Trey Mazratian

LINDALE HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

Trey Mazratian is a special young man. Everyone that knows him, knows that there is something different about him. He has always had a strong desire to learn and grow as a leader. He has an infectious personality, a genuine care and concern for people around him, and he always looks to encourage people to better themselves.

Trey has made such an impact on Lindale High School. This young man is truly one of the best I have ever had the pleasure of coaching.

As a dad, I would love for my son to have the character and competitive nature that Trey Mazratian has. He has countless hours of volunteer work:

• Grace Student Ministries Leadership Team

• Junior High 7 on 7 Coach

• Lindale Spring league Basketball Coach

• Christmas Helper

• Elementary Door opener (Friday mornings)

• Lindale Youth Football Volunteer Coach.

Trey is also a Fellowship of Christian Athlete All-Star football player. 2023

2023

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CHRISTUS ORTHOPEDIC AND SPORTS MEDICINE INSTITUTE AWARD FOR FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Callie Bailey

BULLARD HIGH SCHOOL

Callie Bailey is a two-sport star in softball and volleyball at Bullard High School.

Through 29 games and April 5, Bailey was hitting .389 with three doubles,

three triples, 15 RBIs, 40 runs scored and 28 stolen bases for the 26-3 Lady Panthers, who were ranked No. 1 in the state in Class 4A at the time.

Bailey was also on the Bullard softball

team last season that advanced to the UIL State Softball Tournament for the second consecutive season. Bailey hit .431 with 57 RBIs, 53 runs and 27 stolen bases in her junior season and was selected to the Tyler Morning Telegraph All-East Texas Softball first team.

“Callie is our Best Preps nominee for a multitude of reasons,” Bullard head softball coach Julie Murry said. “She is young lady who excels on and off the softball field and she demonstrates an unusual understanding that to be the best you must have sacrifice, perseverance, attention to detail and be able to live and work with a greater purpose. She elevates everyone around her on a daily basis, as a friend and teammate.”

Bailey was also the libero for the volleyball team. She was the District 18-4A MVP, leading Bullard to a district title.

“When I tried to think of the best words to describe Callie for this nomination — many great words came to my mind,” Murry said. “She is a tremendously hard-working athlete who has been a constant for Bullard softball since she blessed us with her arrival last year. She is highly skilled, has a great softball IQ and she is always thinking, always watching and always working. I can’t give a better overall description than ‘she is a dream to coach’. This kid competes in whatever she does ... and we could not ask for a better role model for our softball program or for this award. She loves Jesus, she’s drama free and she’s fearless, in life and athletics.”

Bailey has a 4.8 grade point average.

Bailey has signed to play softball at Texas Woman’s University.

Bailey has been selected as the Best Preps Tyler Female Athlete of the Year.

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Bullard’s Callie Bailey (center) was presented the CHRISTUS Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institue Female Athlete of the Year Award from TJC women’s basketball coach Trenia Tillis Hoard and Dr. William Hobbs, chairman of the CHRISTUS Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

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CHRISTUS ORTHOPEDIC AND SPORTS MEDICINE INSTITUTE

AWARD FOR MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Dawson Pendergrass

MINEOLA HIGH SCHOOL

Dawson Pendergrass posted a standout career as a student-athlete for Mineola High School. In four years for the Yellowjackets on

the football field, he had 820 carries for 7,414 yards with 88 touchdowns. He also had 70 catches for 1,179 and 16 touchdowns. On defense, he recorded 171 tackles with 15

interceptions — five returned for touchdowns — and four fumble recoveries.

As a senior, Pendergrass did it all for the Yellowjackets. Listed as a running back, Pendergrass was also forced into some quarterback duties. He rushed for 3,184 yards and 38 touchdowns on 358 carries. He was 30 of 60 passing for 479 yards and six touchdowns. He had eight catches for 109 yards and a touchdown. He converted seven two-point conversions. On special teams, he blocked four extrapoint attempts. On defense, he had 19 tackles and two interceptions, returning one for a touchdown.

He was the Tyler Morning Telegraph All-Rose Country Football Player of the Year and was the Class 3A Texas Built Ford Tough Player of the Year.

Pendergrass is also a standout on the basketball court, helping lead the Yellowjackets to the Class 3A Region II final. He averaged 14.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 2.1 steals per game. He had 15 blocks and was the District 13-3A Defensive MVP. He also earned Class 3A Region II All-Region honors from the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches. He also competed in track and field and played golf for Mineola.

“Dawson has represented our program with high standards from the first day he entered high school as a freshman,” Mineola athletic director and head football coach Luke Blackwell said. “He has led with hard work and dependability.”

Pendergrass has a 3.0 grade point average. Pendergrass has signed to play football at Baylor University.

Pendergrass has been selected as the Best Preps Tyler Male Athlete of the Year.

Presented by red carpet sponsor

Whether you’reacompetitiveathleteorweekend warrior,CHRISTUS Orthopedics &Sports Medicine Institute is thepremier choicefor orthopedicinjuries, providing faith-based compassionate care, close to home. Our team of world-class orthopedicand sports medicine specialists providediagnosis and treatmentfor injuries and chronic conditionsofbones, joints, and muscles in onecentralized location forconvenience and ease of care.

•Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, Joint Replacementand Podiatry

•State-of-the-art Rehabilitation Center

•Human Performance Center

-YouthAthleticPerformance Training

-College AthleticPerformance Training

-AdultAthleticTraining

-Personal Training

•Cutting-edge diagnosticimaging

CHRISTUS Orthopedics &Sports Medicine Institute taking orthopediccareastepfurther.

Schedule an appointmenttodayat 903.747.1744

CHRISTUShealth.org

Mineola’s Dawson Pendergrass (center) was presented the CHRISTUS Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institue Male Athlete of the Year Award from TJC women’s basketball coach Trenia Tillis Hoard and Dr. William Hobbs, chairman of the CHRISTUS Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Working together for the same goal.