Best of Preps 2023

2023 STUDENT-ATHLETE AWARDS

CAROLINE FARTHING WOMEN’S STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

AVERY WRESTLING TEAM OF THE YEAR

ISAIAH SHIRLEY MEN’S STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Mountain Times Publications Best of Preps 2023

Hall of Fame football coach

Tony Dungy once was quoted as saying, “The secret to success is good leadership, and good leadership is all about making the lives of your team members or workers better.” The 2023 edition of the Best of Preps winners are testimonies of the impact that individuals can have in leading their respective sports and making their teammates, schools and communities better.

This year, and for each year since 2015, Mountain Times Publications has recognized the best and brightest student-athletes at Ashe, Avery and Watauga high schools not only for their success in their sport of choice, but for their successes in academics and in their respective communities.

Mountain Times Publications, which includes the Watauga Democrat, The Avery Journal-Times and The Ashe Post and Times , annually organizes this special production to honor local student-athletes not just for how they perform on the field, but in the classroom.

Best of Preps recognizes student-athletes and coaches across more than 20 sports. In addition, individual awards of Men’s Student-Athlete of the Year, Women’s Student-Athlete of the Year, Team of the Year, the Perseverance Award, the Community Excellence Award and the Extra Mile

Coach of the Year Award are recognized.

One candidate from each sport was chosen by the coaches from each school. A committee of three anonymous and impartial judges working independently determined

the best athletes from each individual sport. From the pool of student-athletes, the individual awards were chosen by a separate panel, with individual special awards determined.

In addition to the ac -

colades and celebration of our prep athletes, area businesses in the community also sponsored each award. Special thanks to them, as well as to each school’s coaches, administrators and athletic directors for their assistance

in providing information for their student-athletes utilized in this section.

From the classroom to the court, from the fields of competition to the service fields of our communities, this year’s group of student-athletes

have stood out as the best among their peers and are worthy of celebration. Congratulations to each of this year’s Best of Preps winners, as well as the families, teams and schools they represent.

PHOTO BY PATRICK MCCORMACK

Student sections are a key part of any high school athletic event as they cheer on their team.

Men’s Athlete of the Year Isaiah Shirley

Watauga High School has a rich tradition of producing outstanding athletes, and Isaiah Shirley was a standout even among the top talent that came before him.

Isaiah was a two-way football player, taking snaps at both defensive line and tight end. Standing at a height of 6’3”, the defensive powerhouse has remarkable agility and speed for his large frame. His skills have even garnered him an athletic scholarship to play football at North Carolina State University.

Under Watauga head coach Ryan Habich’s tutelage, Isaiah has been a critical piece of the most prolific stretch of football in Pioneer school history.

The Watauga Pioneers football team lays claim to a total of 10 conference championships dating back to 1968 — yet fully half of those came in the last five years.

During Isaiah’s time as a Pioneer, the team has gone an undefeated 22-0 in conference games, and an overall record of 36-9 — even after a major conference realignment and a change from 3A to 4A classification.

Managing to work his way onto the field for the Pioneers as a freshman, Isaiah finished that season with 23 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks.

During the COVID-shorted 2020 campaign, Isaiah notched 44 tackles, 4.5 sacks and 12 tackles for loss in only seven varsity games.

In his junior year, Isaiah had 50 tackles, 9 additional tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks, while also adding one fumble recovery.

Truly exploding in the his senior

season however, Isaiah delivered 70 total tackles — performing 32 of them solo, and 15.5 for loss — and 6.5 sacks and three forced fumbles. Especially impressive was the fact that, on offense from the tight end position, Isaiah was the primary blocker on 87 percent of plays in the 2022 campaign.

Coming out of high school Isaiah was rated as a consensus top-25 player in North Carolina by publications such as ESPN, 247Sports, Rivals and On3. Not only was Isaiah dominant on the gridiron, he was influential off the field as well.

A member of the 2022 Watauga Football Unity Council, Isaiah helped the student-athletes on the team cement a vested interest in the leadership of the program.

Speaking in multiple after-action interviews following football games this past season, Isaiah was consistently humble whenever attention was shown to him — always pointing toward the efforts of Watauga teammates and coaches instead of basking in the spotlight.

Beyond football, Isaiah is a staunch supporters of his fellow Pioneers — always leading the cheering student sections at basketball games and attending many other sporting and academic events besides.

Isaiah also was a strong academic performer, as he and five other football players who signed collegiate offers this year cumulatively averaged a weighted GPA of 4.17.

Fans of Isaiah will change their caps from Pioneer blue to Wolfpack red, but know that Watauga was the place that gave rise to such an outstanding young man.

PHOTO BY PIPER SAUNDERS

Isaiah Shirley on the field against South Iredell.

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Women’s Athlete of the Year Caroline Farthing

Caroline Farthing is already an all-time great on one volleyball court in Boone, and her impact may yet still grow.

A three-sport athlete who competed for the Watauga Pioneers volleyball, women’s basketball and track and field teams, Caroline is no stranger to constantly pushing herself in athletic endeavors.

On her way to setting a school-record 1,223 kills during her volleyball career at Watauga, Caroline notched 559 kills in the 2022 season alone, adding 49 aces, 27 blocks, 342 digs and 15 assists.

Caroline has helped propel Watauga volleyball teams to 4A Final Four and Elite Eight appearances in the 2021 and 2022 seasons and was a three-time Northwestern All-Conference selection. Finally, Caroline was the Conference Player of the Year and made All-State in the both ‘21 and ‘22 campaigns.

Immediately following volleyball, Caroline dives into the women’s basketball schedule with barely a break in between. This season, Caroline averaged 4 points, 5 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.2 steals per game, and her versatile performance earned her a Northwestern Conference Honorable Mention.

In the spring, there is still no letup for Caroline, as she participates in the high jump, triple jump and long jump events for the Pioneer women’s track team. Caroline helped her teammates maintain their hold on track conference championships as the last time

Watauga women’s track and field failed to win their conference was in 2009.

For her lengthy list of achievements in sports, Caroline was recognized with the 2022-23 Watauga High School Hall of Fame athletics award, which is given to only one female athlete each season.

Finally, Caroline is productive outside of athletics, as the “doit-all” starlet hit the books and earned a weighted GPA of 4.4107, and was an NC Scholar-Athlete and a member of the National Honor Society in the process.

Caroline is also a member of the Athletes for Good community service club, where she and others volunteer for a plethora of charitable works in the region.

Personally, Caroline is quiet, but determined and well-spoken — exemplified by the poise with which she conducted herself during numerous post-game interviews following volleyball or basketball games.

With all the record-setting hubbub, Caroline still could extend her legend within the High Country, as she has earned a collegiate offer to play volleyball at Appalachian State University starting in the 2023 fall season.

As Caroline remains within a stone’s throw of the school she set records in — she will play for the App State volleyball team starting this coming school year — fans will not have to travel far to keep up with her, and to see how much more she grows in the coming years.

PHOTO BY PATRICK MCCORMACK

Caroline Farthing dribbles in a game against Ashe County on Feb. 10.

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Perseverance Award Josh Hamilton

Nearly every single person will encounter obstacles and hardship, but some are burdened with many more than others — and Josh Hamilton knows this all too well.

Beyond any of the standard ordeals that a teenage athlete will typically encounter, Josh and his family were dealt a terrible tribulation on June 16, 2020 when Josh’s father, Lee Hamilton, passed away in a tragic car accident.

Lee Hamilton played tennis when he was in high school in the late 1970s, and had always fervently supported his kids in whatever they pursued, sports or otherwise. When Josh started to get into running track and playing football, his parents would be there at nearly every meet or game, cheering their son on.

“He showed up to everything,” Josh said. “It’s hard with him gone, it really is. My dad loved sports, my brother and I both played football, and I ran track and my brother did wrestling — and my dad came to it all.”

Josh fell in love with track at a young age, picking it up competitively in middle school where he was under the tutelage of current Watauga track and field head coach Michael Neff.

“You could not think of a better candidate for the Perseverance Award than Josh,” Neff said. “He’s a great kid. I don’t think he missed a snap unless he was told to come off.”

Neff relayed a time that epitomized Josh’s toughness.

“Josh suffered a broken arm in seventh grade while playing football on a kickoff play, and then he did one of the wildest things that I have ever seen,” Neff said. “He came over to the sideline, and you could see the break

— it was severe.”

Neff continued, “When the medics came and they needed to remove his glove, he refused to let the medics cut the glove off. Instead, he said ‘I can get it off ’ and he just gritted his teeth and pulled the glove off himself so they didn’t have to cut it up.”

When Josh played football, he was a cornerback and a wide receiver — but a gruesome ACL injury in late 2020 forced him to reconsider where his priorities lay.

“After I tore my ACL, I was really thinking about it,” Josh explained. “I only had my junior and senior year left and I thought ‘Do I want to risk another injury from football?’ Because I truly wanted to run track in college.”

Josh decided against returning to football, and after recovering from his injury focused on cross country and track. On the rubber, Josh runs middle distance events and relays, and has made All-Conference and All-Region teams. Additionally Josh was one of the captains of the 2022 Watauga Cross Country and Track team.

Outside of athletics Josh is a fourtime NC Scholar-Athlete, attended dual enrollment courses at Caldwell Community College, was a member of the National Honor Society and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Watauga with a weighted GPA of 4.26.

Beyond that, Josh volunteers at Samaritan’s Purse and aids the Women’s Cancer Center and the Watauga Teachers organization.

Through his actions and behavior, Josh displays to all who meet him that persevering through difficulties makes us treasure that which remains, and can give us perspective about what we truly value in our lives.

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY JOSH HAMILTON

Noah Farmer Commmunity Excellence

Noah Farmer was awarded this year’s Community Excellence Award, not just from his athletic success, but from the time and dedication he has spent volunteering in the community.

Farmer was an all-conference athlete for all four years as one of the strongest and most consistent runners on the cross country team. He also enjoyed running success as part of his time spent on the indoor and outdoor track and field teams.

While the race victories and strong running performances are certainly something to remember, Farmer’s positive attitude and volunteer time should not be overlooked.

Farmer’s passion for singing shined bright as he would routinely sing the National Anthem at many school athletic contests, school events and other county functions. Farmer also serves as the song leader and choir director at Sugar Tree Baptist Church in Warrensville. He sings at numerous churches across the High Country and has performed at Grayson Highland State Park’s annual Fall Festival for the last eight years.

Farmer has volunteered several hours of his time to the local organization Keep Ashe Beautiful as he participates in the litter sweeps that they conduct throughout the county. Keep Ashe Beautiful relies entirely on volunteer efforts with annual spring and fall countywide litter sweeps so Farmer putting in the time helps makes Ashe better. Academically, Farmer’s GPA of 4.625 earned him the Northwestern 3A/4A Scholar Athlete Award. He graduated from the Ashe Early College and was an Honors Graduate of Wilkes Community College with an Associate in Arts and Associate in Science degree. Farmer will attend Appalachian State University this fall and plans to major in business and minoring in music. He hopes to pursue a musical career as a singer and songwriter.

PHOTO BY PATRICK MCCORMACK

Noah Farmer, the recipient of this year’s Community Excellence Award.

Coach of the Year

Matthew Dunn

Avery Vikings Head Wrestling Coach

Matthew Dunn, the 2023 Mountain Times Publications Best of Preps Coach of the Year, is used to exceeding expectations. After leading the Viking grapplers to three consecutive team 1A state championships after the 2021-22 season, less was expected of his team after losing his top two seniors from that squad to Division I powerhouse Appalachian State University. Rather than dwell on the past, or on its failures in winning this year’s state duals title against Uwharrie Charter Academy, or even an individual regional championship against wrestling 1A power Robbinsville this season, Avery’s coaches and wrestlers instead kept their collective noses to the grindstone with the objective of the program peaking when it mattered most and the lights were brightest on North Carolina’s largest wrestling stage.

Last February at the NCHSAA 1A State Wrestling Championships, the Vikings set an all-time record for individual state champions in a single state wrestling championship tournament, regardless of classification, breaking its own record it held with another pair of schools that it set on a couple of seasons ago, as six of Avery’s eight state qualifiers who traveled to Greensboro Coliseum (including Dunn’s son and Viking freshman, Cael) emerged with state individual championships, while the team’s overall performance during the weekend earned Avery its fourth-straight team 1A state

championship trophy, the seventh state championship (including Dual-Team championships) overall during Dunn’s tenure.

“There is no way to put in the words what the emotions are right now,” Dunn said after the team’s performance. “This was not the team that they thought would do this. So what these kids accomplished this weekend and this year has been amazing. We’ve just seen so much growth in these kids from the start of the year till now. We’re just so proud of these kids, and just so happy right now.”

Dunn deflects much of the credit to his fellow coaches and the student-athletes who perform on the mat, His work ethic and motivation to help his wrestlers to become better individuals and not just better athletes is a cornerstone of the program’s success.

“You know, for such a young team, it shows a great deal of maturity just not to let the lights affect them. I think for years we’ve been stressing to these kids about going out and winning state titles and all these other things, and this year was more like, ‘you just go out there and wrestle for you and just go out there and do the best that you can,’” Dunn said about the student-athletes he led this past season.

Under Dunn’s leadership, the Vikings have become a household name in state wrestling circles as a team that all others must contend with, and Dunn’s naming as MTP Coach of the Year marks the first time that a coach has garnered the award in consecutive years.

PHOTO BY BECCA SHEPPARD Matthew Dunn

Team of the Year Avery Wrestling

Avery High School’s wrestling program has enjoyed a period of sustained excellence that few programs not only regionally but statewide can boast of attaining.

The Vikings were successful in capturing its third consecutive 1A team state title in Greensboro Coliseum on February 18 despite qualifying only eight grapplers for the weekend event, less qualifiers than the schools’ two toughest opponents for the championship, traditional grappling powers Robbinsville High School and Uwharrie Charter Academy. The 2022-23 Vikings turned less into more, as six of the team’s eight wrestlers swept through their brackets to capture an individual state wrestling championship, as well as mounting valuable team points in the process.

When the dust settled on Saturday’s action in the finals, it was a state-record-setting effort that led Avery to the pinnacle, as wrestlers Cooper Foster, Ben Jordan, Grant Reece, Tristan Adams, Cael Dunn and Seth Blackledge each had their hands raised in victory in state finals matches in their respective weight classes, propelling the Vikings to earn 134.5 team points, seven more than runner-up and this year’s 1A Western

Regional team champion Robbinsville’s 127.5. 1A State Duals winners Uwharrie Charter Academy placed third with 112 points. The six individual champions set a new state record, regardless of classification, for state-championship-winning wrestlers from a single school in the same tournament.

The feat of bringing home the team hardware was a

testament to the team’s tenacity and ability, as the team’s coach, Matthew Dunn, attested following the historic evening.

“You know, this was not the team that they thought would do this,” Dunn said. “So what these kids accomplished on this weekend and this year has been amazing. We’ve just seen so much growth in these kids from

the start of the year until now. We’re just so proud of these kids, and just so happy right now.”

Although Avery’s run of seven total state wrestling championships (including Dual Team championships) since 2019 is impressive, the team’s outlook for continued success remains bright. A returning state qualifier from 2021 who

did not wrestle at Avery this year, as well as a rising freshman heavyweight with championship credentials at the middle school level, will complement the multiple state champions who have already proven their mettle and are returning to the 2023-24 Avery Wrestling squad.

“We only graduate two scoring kids, and that’s im-

pressive. We’re gonna work hard all summer and all fall, and we just will be the best that we can be. I think for the last five years, I’ve said over and over that we don’t talk about state titles, we talk about working hard and the grind. So it’d be foolish to make any bold predictions, but I know we’ll work as hard as anybody possibly can.”

PHOTO BY BECCA SHEPPARD

The record-breaking Vikings claim fourth consecutive individual team state wrestling championship.

Baseball Player of the Year Ethan Church

Avery High School senior Ethan Church is a man of many talents. Off the baseball diamond, he is a member of the bluegrass group Boone & Church, which was crowned the FFA Talent Show national champions in Indianapolis last fall.

Before discussing his prowess on the field, Church’s extracurricular accolades are noteworthy. Church achieved a North Carolina FFA State Degree, FFA Chapter Degree and FFA Greenhand Degree. He also garnered third place in Beef Cattle State Proficiency, was named Avery County High School CTE Student of the Month as well as CTE Student of the Year at Avery High. Church was recognized for Ag Sales Local Proficiency, as well as Turfgrass Management Local Proficiency.

On the field, Church was named as a member of the 2023 All-Western Highlands Conference baseball team, predominantly playing catcher and designated hitter for the Vikings.

“Ethan is a perfect example of a true student-athlete,” Avery Vikings head baseball coach Benny Wellborn said of his senior. “His dedication to his sport, school and com-

munity is shown through his list of achievements, awards and extracurricular activities.”

Church demonstrated leadership skills outside

the classroom by involving himself in myriad activities, including packing backpacks for Feeding Avery Families, playing and singing once a

month at Sugar Mountain Assisted Living, serving as a musician and youth Sunday School teacher at Sugar Mountain Baptist Church, taking part in the

aforementioned Boone & Church Band, as well as involvement with Future Farmers of America and Avery Beta Club.

“Ethan is a true leader

that is very coachable, and willing to do whatever it takes to help his team over himself. It has been a true pleasure to coach Ethan,” Wellborn added.

PHOTO BY SERENA SMITH Ethan Church

Men’s Basketball Player of the Year Landon Ingham

Avery Vikings senior Landon Ingham excelled on and off the basketball court in his senior year. Academically, Ingham carried a 3.8 weighted grade point average which, combined with his talents on the hardwood, merited him the opportunity to receive a scholarship to play basketball at the collegiate level with Milligan University.

“Over the last four years, Landon has been a positive role model in our community and will leave a lasting impression on our school,” Vikings head basketball coach Cody Frady said of Ingham. “He has been a part of a tremendous turnaround for our varsity basketball program, improving its win total by 18 games in two years.”

Ingham was named All-Western Highlands Conference in basketball in two seasons, was a team captain for two seasons for the Vikings, and made the All-WHC Tournament Team. Ingham was selected to participate following his senior season in the West/Midwest 1A All-Star Basketball Game, receiving an academic scholarship from that organization.

In addition to his exploits on the court, Ingham starred in track and field in the triple jump and high jump events, where he was the Western Highlands Conference champion this season in both events.

Off the court, Ingham is involved as a Teen Class leader at his church, as well as volunteers in area nursing home facilities. In the classroom, Ingham received the ACHS History Award.

Ingham’s prep career was a testament to his tenacity and willingness never to quit pursuing his dream of playing basketball.

“Landon was cut from the basketball team as a freshman. Most other young people in Landon’s situation would have given up, but that is what makes Landon special,” Frady added. “Landon used this setback as motivation to work, and became one of the best players in Western North Carolina. I’m proud that Landon will continue his basketball career collegiately at Milligan University.”

PHOTO BY SERENA SMITH Landon Ingham

Women’s Basketball Player of the Year Morgan Phipps

Ashe County High School

Weighted GPA: 4.5

Achievements and awards: Phipps was a Northwestern 3A/4A All-Conference Honorable Mention performer this season and she was selected to the Northwestern 3A/4A All-Tournament Team this year. Phipps was chosen as the team’s Defensive MVP this season. Offensively, she set the Ashe County High School record for number of assists in a season (2022-23) and became the all-time assists leader at Ashe County High School. Phipps earned the 2022-23 Heart of a Husky Award and was named a 2022-23 Northwestern 3A/4A Senior Scholar Athlete Award winner.

Volunteer and community service: Phipps was the 2022-23 Senior Class President, HOSA Media Coordinator (2022 and 2023) and BETA Club Secretary. She volunteered with numerous community activities including youth basketball camps and other youth sponsored events.

Coach’s comments : “I am nominating Morgan because she was without question the leader of our team on and off the court. She sacrificed scoring for the better of the team and ended up being the all-time assist leader at Ashe County. Morgan is always a team before self player that does whatever is necessary for the team, even if it meant not reaching her individuals goals.” — ACHS varsity basketball head coach Brianna Ashley

PHOTO BY NATHAN HAM Morgan Phipps

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Cheerleader of the Year Bree Minerva

Ashe County High School

Weighted GPA: 4.07

Achievements and awards: Minerva was awarded the Best All Around Cheerleader award during her senior season at Ashe County High School. She was inducted into the BETA Club for her junior and senior years and made the A/B Honor Roll for her freshman, sophomore, junior and senior years. Minerva is a member of the Ashe Senior Huskies Recreational Competition Cheer Team. Off the court, she was selected for a Fusion Models Internship in New York CIty in the summer of 2022.

Volunteer and community service: Minerva volunteered her time to coach the Ashe County Middle School cheer teams. She also spent time helping with the K-6 cheerleading camp. Outside of her cheerleading responsibilities, Minerva volunteers with the Ashe County Schools Special Olympics and with Keep Ashe Beautiful picking up trash.

Challenges to overcome: Minerva’s parents separated and divorced when she was in third grade. She lives with her mother, who is a single parent, while her father lives in New York. Her

mother supports four children on her own, therefore, Minerva works multiple jobs (babysitting and waitressing) to pay for her necessities, like gas

and clothing. Because of her need to work, on top of her cheerleading, she has learned to be very independent.

Coach’s comments :

“Bree is an outstanding athlete and young lady. She served as a cheer captain during her entire senior season (both football and basketball seasons)

and exemplifies what it means to be a leader. She is able to provide feedback to her teammates in a kind and meaningful way. On top of her leadership

and kindness, she is very knowledgeable and skilled in all aspects of cheerleading.” — ACHS varsity cheerleading head coach Madi Roberts.

PHOTO BY CHANDA RICHARDSON

Bree Minerva

Men’s Cross Country Athlete of the Year Noah Farmer

Ashe County High School

Weighted GPA: 4.625

Achievements and awards: Farmer was an all-conference athlete all four years in cross country, indoor, and outdoor track. He was a regional qualifier all four years for cross country and a two-year regional qualifier for outdoor track. Farmer was a state qualifier during his senior year for cross country, which included being recognized by the Ashe County Board of Education for this achievement.

Farmer earned the role of team captain his senior years for cross country and outdoor track. He was the MVP for cross country, indoor, and outdoor track. He won multiple medals for running. Off the track, Farmer was a Junior Marshal and a Wilkes Community College Graduate, Associate of Arts and Associate of Science.

Volunteer and community service: Farmer participated in Keep Ashe Beautiful litter sweeps multiple times, and the New River Cleanup. He helped decorate ACMS for the “Making Spirits Bright Light Show.” Farmer is the Song Leader/Choir Director at Sugar Tree Baptist Church, and one of the co-leaders of the youth group, planning activities. Farmer is well-known for singing the National Anthem at several school and county events. He travels to churches all over Ashe and neighboring counties to sing, and has sung for the past eight years at Grayson Highlands State Park’s annual Fall Festival. Farmer is an avid member of Ashe Early College’s Music Club, and was the co-creator of AEC’s annual Open Mic Night. He also helped map out and flag the 5k course for Ashe Early College’s annual Pumpkin Run. Coach’s comments: “Noah has been very involved in school and county events throughout high school. He’s been a dependable athlete who has worked hard all four years. He leads by example and by voice. He shows great sportsmanship, and is known by many of his competitors.” — ACHS cross country head coach Shane Greene

PHOTO BY LEEANN CRONK

Noah Farmer

Women’s Cross Country Athlete of the Year Gwendolyn Anderson

Watauga High School

Weighted GPA: 4.48

Achievements and awards: In cross country, Gwendolyn is a multiple Northwestern All-Conference awardee, and was selected as the 2022 Northwestern 3A/4A Conference Runner of the Year this past fall. Gwendolyn notched a 16th-place finish at the 4A West Regional meet in her final year, qualifying for states, where she finished 71st overall at the 2022 NCHSAA 4A State Championships. Additionally, Gwen is a member of the National Honor Society and the French National Honor Society. Finally, she has received a College Board National Rural Small Town Recognition award, an AP Scholar Award and is an A Honor Roll student.

Community service/ Extracurricular activities: Gwendolyn volunteers to help prepare dinner for the Hospitality House, was the Director of the Mr. WHS Pageant — which raised more than $25,000 for three families in need in the Watauga County Schools system — and she was the President of the Sustainability Club which wrote a grant and raised funds for solar panels at Watauga High School.

Challenges to over-

come: This past fall the Watauga cross country team was decimated by the flu. Gwendolyn had it before the conference meet, and then did a great job of holding the team together

even when they were not sure who was going to run at the meet. It was a situation that could have gotten anyone down, but Gwen kept her head up and kept pushing the team forward.

Coach’s comments: “Being a captain on the team, Gwen was a great leader. She lead both vocally and by example. Her willingness to work very hard and push herself

in meets helped push her teammates also. After she crosses the finish line, she can be seen out on the course yelling and cheering for her teammates, all the way down to the last run-

ner. Gwen always came to practice with a smile on her face and good words for both teammates and coaches.” — Randy McDonough, Watauga cross country head coach

PHOTO BY PATRICK MCCORMACK

Gwendolyn Anderson

Dance Athlete of the Year Skylar Moss

Watauga High School

Weighted GPA: 3.518

Achievements and awards: Skylar was the Watauga Pacer Dance team captain for the 202223 season, and was also selected to attend the 2022 Women’s Leadership Conference as a representative of Watauga High School.

Skylar attended a six-week intensive dance program in the summer of 2022 at the NC School of Arts. Finally, Skylar was a Pioneer Ambassador for three years and a Peer Group Connection Leader for two years. Community service/ Extracurricular activities: Skylar is a member of Project Dance, as well as the Carolina Snowbelles. Additionally, Skylar volunteers with the Athletes For Good community service club and is a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the Sustainability Club, the Key Club and Interact, where she serves as the Social Media Manager Officer.

Coach’s comments:

“Skylar has been a valuable member of the Watauga High School Pacer Dance. She has always been respectful and dedicated to her team. She has grown during her time as a Pacer which is one of the reasons she was chosen to be the Captain

for this year’s team. Skylar’s leadership and dance skills have enriched the

team on and off the field. Skylar’s leadership skills have grown throughout

the year. She has handled situations with maturity and thoughtfulness. She

manages a positive balance in her life, is confident in who she is and has a

beautiful spirit.”

— Laura Carson, Watauga Pacer Dance head coach

PHOTO BY PATRICK MCCORMACK

Skylar Moss (center left)

Football Player of the Year Will Curtis

Watauga High School

Weighted GPA: 4.18

Achievements and awards: Will was a senior captain for Watauga football last fall, and was selected to serve on the Watauga Football Unity Leadership Council. In football, Will earned a selection to the Northwestern All-Conference

First Team for his performances at running back and defensive back. After a 2022 campaign where he rushed for 1,323 yards, Will led the Pioneers with 26 rushing touchdowns and was named the 2022 Coaches’ Award winner for Watauga football, Will committed to play football at Wheaton College next season.

Community service/ Extracurricular activities: Will served as a counselor at Watauga youth football camps, volunteers with multiple local missions at Alliance Bible Fellowship Church and served as a junior Toastmaster member.

Challenges to overcome: Will had to overcome several injuries throughout his playing career and was almost not allowed to play high football due to a concussion he received when he was younger. Although his first year playing high school football was his sophomore year in the COVID-19 shortened season, Will was

Will Curtis.

able to pick up the sport quickly and become a twotime All-Conference player and receive an offer to play college football.

Coach’s comments: “Will is a positive influ-

ence within Watauga High School, his church, and the community. Will has served his community by volunteering for multiple local missions and youth sports camps

(football). Will possesses many good character traits and is someone younger players and students look up to. Will demonstrates good leadership skills and genuine concern for other

people while excelling as a two-sport varsity player in football and track. He has demonstrated strong leadership abilities as a team captain and member of the football leadership council.

Along with playing a major role on the football team, Will excels in AP/Honors classes and dual enrollment college courses.” — Ryan Habich, Watauga football head coach

PHOTO BY ROB MOORE

Men’s Golfer of the Year Hank Johnson

Avery High School freshman Hank Johnson entered his first high school season with great expectations. Entering ACHS as the top-ranked player in the state for incoming freshmen, and ranked No. 40 overall in North Carolina, the Viking golf coaching staff hoped for Johnson to make an instant impact on the program.

Despite contending on a regular basis against a two-time state 1A individual champion and the eventual 2023 state 1A golf championship team within his own conference, Hank more than delivered for the Big Red, as he earned Western Highlands Conference All-Conference honors while also upending the defending 1A state individual champion as part of a three-way playoff in the WHC Tournament to capture the individual conference championship. Johnson went on to qualify for the state championships through the 1A Western Regional, and placed sixth overall in the NCHSAA 1A Boys Golf Championship.

“As a freshman, Hank has taken the leadership role on the Avery High School golf team,” said Avery golf coach Gary Noblett. “He is a great young player who is successful on the course, and is well respected on his team, in our conference and our region.”

Johnson excelled this season both in athletics and academics, as he was a key contributor of the Avery junior varsity and varsity basketball program, while maintaining a weighted grade point average of 4.0 in the classroom.

PHOTO BY BARB HOLDCROFT Hank Johnson

Women’s Golfer of the Year Kelli Blackburn

Avery High School senior girls golfer Kelli Blackburn maintained a packed academic and athletic schedule while excelling both on the course and in the classroom.

Blackburn earned a weighted grade point average of 4.4259 at ACHS while being on the A Honor Roll for two years, earning Certificates of Excellence during her prep career for Yearbook, Honors English, Honors Math and Honors Chemistry. Blackburn also earned A Honor Roll accolades through her dual enrollment with Mayland Community College in 2022-23.

Blackburn served as a member of Avery High School Key Club and Beta Club, as well as was a member of ACHS Student Government for three years and volunteered with Avery Humane Society. Blackburn also developed and cultivated academic pursuits outside of the classroom, as she took on internships with a pair of local newspapers to cover prep sports through writing and photography.

Kelli excelled as a senior leader and was multi-year starting pitcher for the Avery Lady Vikings softball team in the spring, following her participation as a Lady Viking golfer in the fall. Blackburn and her teammates qualified for the 1A/2A Western Regional Championship in 2022. She also served as a football manager at Avery for three seasons.

“Kelli has been a leader from day one,” Coach Mike Shook said. “She was always the first one to show up to practice and the last one to leave. She has been a great mentor to younger players, whether it was on the golf course or on the softball diamond. She never asked why and always trusted her coaches when she was asked or told to do something.”

Kelli Blackburn

Men’s Lacrosse Player of the Year Kade Maiden

Watauga High School

Weighted GPA: 4.1

Achievements and awards: Kade was the 2022 Watauga men’s lacrosse Offensive Player of the Year, and made the Mountain Foothills 2022 All-Conference team. In 2023, Kade was a captain of both the men’s lacrosse and cross country teams. Finally, Kade has qualified for the NCAS Body Armor State Games in both ‘22 (as a midfielder) and ‘23 (attacker).

Community service/Extracurricular activities: Kade is a member of the National Honor Society, Model UN Club, the cross country team, indoor track and the Sustainability Club. Kade also volunteers with the High Country Food Hub, the Sustainability Club and Western Youth Network.

Challenges to overcome: With zero lacrosse experience before 2021, Kade has become an outstanding lacrosse player in less than two years, demonstrating his personal dedication to the sport and his team. Early in the spring of 2022, Kade was injured and missed nearly half the season. Even only playing half of the year, Kade earned offensive player of the year and demonstrated the skill and leadership to be a captain as a junior for 2023.

Coach’s comments: “I really can’t say enough about Kade Maiden. He is our leading offensive player again in 2023, dominating in every offensive stat category including goals, assists, points, shots and shooting percentage. He makes significant contributions on the field in every game and his lacrosse IQ is excellent. He is a captain and a great leader on our team. The guys look up to him and he holds them to high standards while also teaching and pushing them to be better. He encourages and energizes his teammates, especially during tough game situations. He exhibits strong character all the time, whether the coaches are around or not, and is a very hard worker and dependable.” — Matt Carpenter, Watauga men’s lacrosse head coach

PHOTO COURTESY WHS LACROSSE

Kade Maiden

Women’s Lacrosse Player of the Year Madelyn Ellis

Watauga High School

Weighted GPA: 3.7

Achievements and awards: Operating primarily out of the Pioneer midfield, Madelyn was the captain of the 2023 Watauga women’s lacrosse team. Madelyn was further recognized with the Citizenship Award by her squad and coaches for the positive influence and connections she made.

Community service/ Extracurricular activities: Madelyn volunteers with several clubs at Watauga High School, including the Watauga School Athletics Booster Club. Madelyn also helps organize fundraisers for the women’s lacrosse team — highlighted by a very successful campaign drive this season for the Leah Cooper Wallace Scholarship this year that raised more than $3,000.

Coach’s comments:

“I selected Maddie for this nomination because of her leadership skills and her ability to help others around her. Maddie makes everyone feel like they belong and likes to help in any way she can. Maddie also goes above and beyond when trying to support her sport and her school.” — Julia Harrison, former Watauga women’s lacrosse head coach

PHOTO BY PATRICK MCCORMACK

Madelyn “Maddie” Ellis

Men’s Soccer Player of the Year Kai Suyao

Watauga High School boys

soccer senior Kai Suyao is someone who gives himself completely and selflessly to whatever he is committed to, whether that is playing soccer, working as and employee or volunteering his time in various areas of community service.

“Kai is a coach’s dream. He is skilled, talented and gifted, but even more importantly, he is a very coachable hard worker,” said Suyao’s coach at WHS, Josh Honeycutt. “He shows up every day ready to work and learn something new that can make him a better player. He is a great teammate and was loved by his team as our starting center back and captain.”

Suyao excelled in the classroom, as he earned a 4.24 weighted GPA in his studies, garnering senior scholar-athlete honors and was a National Honor Society nominee. He received the Blowing Rock Community Foundation’s Jean and Walter Wilkinson Scholarship for his academic acumen.

Off the pitch, Kai has volunteered as a member of Athletes for Good service organization, as well volunteered as a soccer field maintenance worker for High Country Soccer, and

passed along his knowledge of the game of soccer as a volunteer coaching assistant throughout all four years of high school. Suyao played four years of varsity soccer, four years with High Country Soccer Association, ran track all four years in high school, spent four

years on the skiing team, and worked as an employee with Daniel Boone Inn since his sophomore year and with Appalachian Ski Mtn. during his senior year.

Athletically, Kai spent four years on the varsity soccer team, garnering All-Conference honors in both his

junior and senior seasons, with All-Region honors in his senior season. Suyao was named Northwestern Conference Defensive Player of the Year as a senior.

“For Kai to be named to the varsity team as a freshman was a very scary and nerve-wracking achieve-

ment,” Honeycutt said. “I am sure it was tough for him to adjust to the size and speed of the older players. However, he stepped up to the challenge, so much so that he quickly became a starter.”

Suyao demonstrates the qualities present in the quintessential Best of Preps

honoree.

“Kai is a wonderful student that works hard in the classroom,” Honeycutt added. “A scholar in the classroom, a Defensive Player of the Year and a valued community member is the definition of the Best of Preps athlete.”

PHOTO BY PATRICK MCCORMACK Kai Suyao.

Women’s Soccer Player of the Year Maya Nelson

Watauga High School

Weighted GPA: 3.6

Achievements and awards: After her freshman year was derailed by COVID cancellations, Maya earned selections to the Northwestern All-Conference team in three straight seasons — 2021, 2022 and 2023. For her senior campaign this year, Maya was a captain of the team. Finally, Maya has been a part of two consecutive seasons where Watauga women’s soccer qualified for the United Soccer Coaches Academic Team Award, where a squad must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25.

Community service/ Extracurricular activities: Maya is a server at Wild Craft Eatery, volunteers at the Watauga Humane Society and the Hospitality House, where she often helps with food-based events. Maya has also worked with the Wild Craft Boone cleanup project.

Challenges to overcome: Maya suffered a serious knee injury her freshman year, which was then subsequently canceled due to COVID. Her sophomore and junior year were plagued by recurring injuries, as well as playing through tonsillitis.

According to coach Chris Tarnowski, “Maya has also persevered through personal hardships to become the positive leader she is today.”

Coach’s comments:

“Maya Nelson is the most impactful player and captain we have had for women’s soccer at Watauga High School. Her

drive and determination to improve her personal skills, as well as the skills of those around her, have influenced the team to achieve remarkable

success. As a player, she goes above and beyond to be a positive role model on and off the field, and she will be a player that is referenced for years to

come. Maya is a kind soul, and will be a force for good in whatever she does after high school.” — Chris Tarnowski, Watauga women’s soccer head coach

PHOTO BY PATRICK MCCORMACK

Maya Nelson (#7)

Softball Player of the Year Kara Brooks

Watauga High School

Weighted GPA: 4.37

Achievements and awards: A rising senior, Kara is a force to be reckoned with on the softball field — making the 2022 and 2023 Northwestern All-Conference teams for her efforts. She was named the 2022 Defensive MVP by the Watauga softball team. Kara has been an honor roll student for her entire school career and is a member of the National Honor Society. Additionally, Kara was the USA Transportation Showcase State Champion in both 2022 and 2023, has had multiple journalism articles published in local publications — including earning 1st place in the 2020 Mountain Times Essay Contest. Community service/Extracurricular activities: Kara participated in Future Farmers of America, the Best Buddies Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Athletes for Good community service and Chess Club. Kara was also involved in church youth group, was the substitute Sunday School Teacher for children’s class at her local church, volunteers at the Watauga County Public Library and helps organize events at local rest homes.

Coach’s comments: “Kara is our nominee because she is an incredible representative of Watauga Softball on and off the field. Her performance and stats on the field speak for themselves.

But we want to recognize who she is as a person. Kara is a team leader who leads by example and has a blue collar work ethic. She is respectful, responsible, resilient, hardworking and is a young woman of integrity. Kara is confident in who she is and cares about the people around her.” — April Yandle, Watauga softball head coach

PHOTO BY PATRICK MCCORMACK Kara Brooks

Softball StudentAthleteofthe Year Nominees!

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Men’s Swimmer of the Year Michael Makdad

Watauga High School

Weighted GPA: 3.66

Achievements and awards: As a freshman, Michael was the 2023 Watauga swim team men’s MVP, and made the Northwestern All-Conference team in three events, winning all three. Michael was also a NCHSAA 4A West swimming regional qualifier in multiple relay events.

Community service/ Extracurricular activities: Michael is an altar server at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church every week, as well as on special occasions like weddings, confirmations and more. Additionally, Michael is a member of the Watauga snowboarding club, runs track in the spring and played for the JV Pioneers soccer team this past fall. Finally, Michael swims for the local club swim team while competing in USA Club Swimming events.

Challenges to overcome: Michael overcame a severe knee injury suffered in December 2021, but still had an outstanding freshman year this past season. Most swimmers that he competes against are training throughout the year, so he was months behind them when he started in November. He trained hard, and while there was still lingering pain, he always did all

that was asked of him.

Coach’s comments:

“Michael was the only swimmer that I had that

swam every event throughout the season — eight individual events and three relays. Being as versatile

as he is, I oftentimes used him in places I needed him, rather than the events that he preferred. This helped

the team more than it helped Michael, and would often put him in events against swimmers in their

top events, rather than his own.” —

David Gragg,

Watauga swimming head coach

PHOTO BY PATRICK MCCORMACK

Michael Makdad

Women’s Swimmer of the Year Virginia St. Clair

Watauga High School

Weighted GPA: 4.4

Achievements and awards: Virginia was the 2023 Watauga swim team Co-MVP and a team captain, multi-year regional qualifier in swim and track and made All-Conference in four swim events, placing first overall in all four. Virginia set a Northwestern 3A/4A Conference record time in both the 200 Free (individual) and 400 Free Relay events.

Community service/ Extracurricular activities: Virginia was the Project Manager of Sustainability Club, President of the Watauga Chapter of the National Honor Society, member of the Leadership Committee for Cross Country. She volunteered through Boone United Methodist Church, doing food drives, home cleanups and more. Virginia also did community volunteering by working with exceptional children, doing, trail/river cleanups, clothing drives, food drives and work at the Hospitality House.

Challenges to overcome: Virginia has overcome multiple obstacles — from a severely torn muscle in her leg, to a diagnosis of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) — a condition that can cause her to pass out at the end of rac-

es. Virginia never let the condition define her or alter her path, and has even remarked that her torn leg muscle was the greater challenge between the two. After learning

how to train differently and embracing swimming the anchor leg of all relays, Virginia has shown that what might have stopped many did not even slow her down.

Coach’s comments:

“Virginia has worked over the past years to not only be successful in the pool but also in the classroom. She earned a Presidential Music Schol-

arship at Furman, and she has been an example for all other athletes on the team to push themselves in all aspects of their daily lives. Virginia was always one of the hardest

working swimmers on the team, and constantly trained to make herself an valuable asset to our program.” — David Gragg, Watauga swimming head coach

PHOTO BY PATRICK MCCORMACK Virginia St. Clair

Ashe County High School

Achievements and awards: Keith was recognized as a Northwestern 3A/4A All-Conference performer this year and was named as the team MVP. Off the court, Keith was awarded the Mt. View Elementary Scholarship ($500), Ashe County Chamber of Commerce Scholarship ($1,500) and the Blue Ridge Energy Leadership Track Scholarship ($4,000). Challenges to overcome: Keith faced some very difficult competition throughout the season. He was always willing to give 100 percent and never backed down from challenges.

Coach’s comments: “Jackson is a fierce competitor and played against the best players throughout the conference. He always gave 100 percent and never backed down from the challenge. He was a great leader for our team and helped each of his teammates to improve and become better players throughout the season.”

— ACHS men’s tennis head coach Travis Richardson

Men’s Tennis Player of the Year Jackson Keith

PHOTO BY BAILEY LITTLE

Women’s Tennis Player of the Year Madison Ogden

Watauga High School

Weighted GPA: 4.607

Achievements and awards : Madison is a four-time Northwestern All-Conference player, qualifying for the 4A West Regionals in doubles play during her junior and senior seasons — including claiming the title of NWC Doubles Champion with teammate Amira Younce. Additionally, Madison is a champion clogger, earning National Championship titles on multiple occasions with teams at Sole Impact Dance Studio. Madison also was awarded the America’s Clogging Hall of Fame Scholarship in her senior year. Most impressively of all, Madison was the Valedictorian of the Watauga High School Class of 2023.

Community service/Extracurricular activities: Madison is a member of the National Honor Society, the French Honor Society, the Sentencing Circle, Interact Club, Blue Ridge Energy Track and an active member at her church youth group. Madison regularly volunteers with the Watauga Humane Society, Food For Families, Operation Christmas Child, at Vacation Bible School as an assistant teacher, and with the Mountain Alliance Greenway Clean Up. Madison has also operated as a beginner tennis instructor to local children, went to Haiti on a Mission Trip and has worked at various businesses including Tweetsie Railroad, Boone Drug Inc. and Dustin N Stacy Attorney at Law as a youth intern. Coach’s comments : “Madison is strong, fierce, kind, smart and competitive. She exudes leadership and perseverance, both on and off the court. Madison is the type of athlete that every coach wants and needs on their team.” — Jennifer Pillow, former Watauga women’s tennis head coach.

PHOTO BY PIPER SAUNDERS

Madison Ogden

Men’s Track & Field Athlete of the Year Sam Nixon

Watauga High School trackand field student-athlete Sam Nixon is committed to excellence at his craft of distance running. An All-Conference performer in both the 800-meters and 1600-meters, Nixon finished the season as the Watauga Distance Group Season Points Leader on the boys outdoor track and field squad. His accolades speak for themselves, including an invite to the 43rd Six Rivers Relay (an event where just nine individuals receive invites), as well as a 4A Western Regional Qualifier in the 1600-meter run and the 4x800-meter relay team.

“As a coach of cross country and track, I have yet to have a student-athlete who has shown more progress in a season than Sam,” Pioneers outdoor track and field distance coach Scott Townsend said of Nixon. “In the course of the regular season leading up to the Regional meet, Sam set a personal record in one of his featured events in every competition that he attended. This progression and commitment to excellence is unheard of, yet to watch his preparation on a regular basis would clue on in to his potential.”

Nixon maintained excellence in the classroom, as he garnered a 4.31 weighted grade point average while taking part in Pioneer Ambassadors, an exclusive group at Watauga High School that helps freshmen and new students become acclimated to the high school. Ambassadors is

time-intensive as it includes bridge meetings with middle schools, freshman orientation, and school tours.

Nixon also served as the Junior Class Treasurer and will serve as Student Body Treasurer next year. He volunteers by participating in river cleanups along

the Greenway, the area where the team trains daily, through Sustainability Club and Fly Fishing Club.

Nixon’s leadership is constantly evident as part of the track and field team at WHS.

“His leadership is one of quiet modeling. He is vocal when necessary, but is a

his personal goals and team goals is admirable.”

Nixon’s success hasn’t come without a fair share of challenges and battling through injuries and setbacks to achieve his goals.

servant leader who shows what to do, not just in words,” Townsend added. “Over his Spring Break, when all other teammates were off, Sam made it a point to contact me and requested to have some private sessions where he could continue to hone his craft. This investment in

“One challenge Sam has overcome to achieve success is chronic injury, specifically tibial stress syndrome, throughout his running career. As a junior, he has had to navigate this syndrome every track season. This has forced him to take some time off, often weeks and months without running, and even ending his sophomore cross country season over halfway early,” Townsend explains. “Because of his commitment to his teammates and his goals, he cross-trained heavily, rehabbing twice daily. In spite of this, this track season he strived to overcome these obstacles. With nightly rehab and learning a new sport in the offseason to protect his body (swimming), he was able to put in an incredible season. His story of perseverance in the face of continued adversity is something that should be commended. Most can shine when things go well, but character is revealed when they aren’t. Sam’s character abounds.”

PHOTO BY PATRICK MCCORMACK

Sam Nixon

Women’s Track & Field Athlete of the Year Olivia Burroughs

Watauga High School

Weighted GPA: 4.5

Achievements and awards: Still only a junior, Olivia is a three-time Northwestern All-Conference track and field athlete, and reached states level competition in the pole vault event in 2022 and 2023. Burroughs has maintained a NC Scholar-Athlete status, is member of the National Honors Society and the Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA) Club. In HOSA, Olivia operated as the club historian, and notched 1st-place in Health Career Photography and 1st-place in Extemporaneous Writing at regional competitions. Olivia was also a HOSA state competition qualifier in her sophomore and junior years. In pole vault, Olivia’s current personal record cleared height is 10 feet and 9 inches.

Community service/ Extracurricular activities: Olivia volunteers at Watauga County Child Literacy Reading camp, COVID-19 vaccination clinics and as a Pioneer Ambassador through orientations, tours and bridge meetings. Olivia is also a member of the Athletes for Good community service club, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes club and

the Watauga Key Club — where she served as the public relations officer.

Coach’s comments : “Olivia is perfect nomi-

nee for this award for her outstanding well-roundedness. She is a member of cross country, indoor and outdoor track and field.

She is a multi-time state qualifier for pole vault and a regional qualifier in multiple track events. I like to call her ‘my track

Swiss army knife.’ She is not only a very strong athlete, but she also excels in school and in helping her community. She is an

asset to have on any team, and I am so glad she is on mine!” —

Michael Neff,

and

head coach

Watauga track

field

PHOTO BY PATRICK MCCORMACK

Olivia Burroughs

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Volleyball Player of the Year Caroline Farthing

Watauga High School

Weighted GPA: 4.4107

Achievements and awards: A versatile outside hitter set to join the Appalachian State University volleyball program in fall 2023 — Caroline racked up many accolades at Watauga. Farthing was a 2022 All-Conference Honorable Mention in basketball and won the 2022-23 Watauga High School Hall of Fame athletics award. She is a three-time 1st-Team Northwestern 3A/4A All-Conference volleyball player, and was twice awarded the Conference Play of the Year honor in 2021 and 2022. Those two seasons also garnered her All-State recognition — 2nd-Team in ‘21 and 1st-Team in ‘22. Caroline recorded 1,223 kills during her tenure in Watauga volleyball, and was a NC Scholar-Athlete and a member of the National Honor Society.

Community service/ Extracurricular activities: Caroline was a member of the Athletes for Good community service club, ran track during the spring, and played club volleyball at Twin City Volleyball Club.

Challenges to overcome: Caroline played in the shadow of older sisters for years, yet carved her own path to success. After verbally committing to App State

as a sophomore, a coaching change there and a severe ankle injury in her junior year left a potential college career in doubt. Caroline worked for month to rehab

to a point where she could show App’s new head coach her true talents. Through that determination and hard work, Caroline re-secured her athletic scholarship.

Coach’s comments: “Caroline Farthing has been the best of the best in volleyball — not only in our area, but in the entire state — for three years. She is an

incredible athlete, extremely hard worker and one of the most humble kids you’ll ever meet. She has been a natural talent her whole career, but she works so

hard to improve every day. Most importantly, she’s a great teammate and makes everyone around her better.”

— Kim Pryor, Watauga volleyball head coach

PHOTO BY PATRICK MCCORMACK

Caroline Farthing

Wrestler of the Year Seth Blackledge

An image of Seth Blackledge may very well appear in the dictionary beside the word “perseverance.”

Blackledge, a Viking senior wrestler, overcame a number of injuries and setbacks on his way to becoming a two-time state wrestling champion and a member of all four of Avery High School’s consecutive team 1A state wrestling championships.

“Seth did not achieve the level of success that was expected of him early in his career,” Avery Vikings head wrestling coach Matthew Dunn said of his team co-captain. “Despite yearly injuries and devastating setbacks, he was always there to be the leader that I needed him to be. I believe to have a team be successful in February, it isn’t about the coaching that does it, but it’s the team leaders, and Seth is probably among the best group of leaders that I’ve had, making sure the wrestling room’s where it needs to be, and he had a voice as leadership in making decisions and in the things that we did as a team.”

Blackledge completed his senior season at Avery as a four-time state placer and two-time individual state champion. Blackledge earned Western Highlands Conference Wrestler of the Year honors, and also received the honor within the Viking wrestling program of Lifetime Captain Award.

Blackledge carried a 4.1 weighted grade point average in the Class of 2023 and serves as a year-round coach for young aspiring wrestlers with the Dogtown Wrestling Club, where he works with elementary-age students to help cultivate the next generation of grappling greats.

“Seth is the best wrestler, teammate and captain that I have ever coached,” Dunn added. “He is selfless in his actions and has demonstrated excellence on and off the mat. I love that my future wrestlers are looking up to him as an example.”

PHOTO BY BECCA SHEPPARD

Seth Blackledge, two-time state champion and Best of Preps winner for Wrestling.

The 2022-23 season in photos

PHOTO SUBMITTED Junior Ellie Hayes attacks the ball during an Avery varsity volleyball victory against Mitchell.

PHOTO BY SERENA SMITH

Avery senior Ava Schmidinger controls the ball against a pair of Mitchell defenders.

PHOTO BY CHANDA RICHARDSON

The Huskies storm the field for their 2023 homecoming game.

PHOTO BY PATRICK MCCORMACK Isaac Pennington pinned Edwyn Vickrey to earn his first varsity win as a Husky.

PHOTO BY JAMIE SHELL

Avery softball second baseman Ava Trice lunges against Elizabethton.

PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Maddox Greene breaks out a run against South Iredell.

The 2022-23 season in photos

FILE PHOTO

The ACHS varsity volleyball team celebrates a point against Forestview.

FILE PHOTO

Lexie Dawson makes her way to the basket for a layup.

PHOTO BY PIPER SAUNDERS

Micah Duvall (Jr.) blocks an opponent from the ball during a Men’s soccer game against AC Reynolds at the start of the 2022 season.

PHOTO BY PATRICK MCCORMACK

Jake Warren driving from hole No. 1 at Boone Golf Club.

PHOTO BY PATRICK MCCORMACK

The Watauga Pioneers boys’ lacrosse team have a ritual where they touch sticks, before and after games, and during time-