BRAXTON CLARK
WILLA ELKINS
LUKE VAUGHN
EVERETT CLARK
GRANT BIRD
DANIEL CARROLL Tobias Workman
Mallory Tolley
celebrate.
PLAY HARD. DREAM BIG. ALWAYS REMEMBER.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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PLAYER PROFILE Nomination
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Everett Clark
Luke Vaughn
Grant Bird
Daniel Carroll
Mallory Tolley
Tobias Workman
THE PLACE TO FIND...
HIGHLIGHT REELS
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FAITH IN SPORTS PLAYING FOR A BETTER PURPOSE
By Nate Thompson
In sports, we learn the importance of teamwork, dedication, and perseverance. But as athletes of faith, our drive doesn’t just come from the scoreboard—it comes from the words of Jesus. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus teaches:
“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
This verse reminds us that no matter how much we love the game, our first priority should be putting God at the center of everything we do. That means competing with integrity, respecting our teammates and coaches, and showing kindness to our opponents. Wins and losses will come and go, but living out our faith leaves a lasting impact.
When you step onto the field or court, ask yourself: Am I playing just for myself—or am I playing to honor God? By putting Him first, we discover a deeper joy in the game, one that isn’t tied to stats or trophies.
So next time you suit up, remember Matthew 6:33. Compete with passion, but also with faith—because in God’s eyes, the way you play matters far more than the final score.
BRAXTON
CLARK
PLAYER PROFILE
LWINFIELD YOUTH FOOTBALL LEAGUE – B TEAM | #0 | RUNNING BACK, CORNER, DEFENSIVE END
At just two seasons into his football journey, Braxton Clark has already proven himself as a player who thrives under pressure. One of his favorite memories this year came during a heated matchup against St. Albans. With the game on the line in the fourth quarter, Braxton intercepted a pass that shut down the opposing drive and gave his team the momentum they needed to secure the win.
Inspired by watching NFL games with his dad and brothers, Braxton set out to follow in the footsteps of his favorite players. Among them, Derrick Henry stands tall as his role model on the field, while closer to home, his biggest influence is his dad—someone he describes as hardworking, kind, and always pushing him to improve in both sports and life.
When he’s not making plays under the Friday night lights, Braxton can usually be found outdoors. He enjoys hunting, fishing, and spending time with family and friends, but he’s just as comfortable kicking back with his PlayStationcontrollerinhand.
For Braxton, the best part of playing football isn’t just the touchdowns or tackles—it’s the friendships. “Making friends, spending time with them, and helping each other be better” is what he values most about being on ateam.
His parents couldn’t be prouder: “We are incredibly proud of you for working so hard and trying your best in everything you do. You’re a phenomenal friend, brother, and son. You’re going to do great things, and we are so excited to see where life takesyou.”
With determination, a team-first attitude, and a love for the game, Braxton Clark is a name to watch as he continues to grow as both an athleteandaleader.
Willa
Elkins
PLAYER PROFILE
HURRICANE LITTLE LEAGUE CHAOS | #1 | FIRST BASE
# 1
Willa Elkins is a powerhouse on the field and a leader on the Hurricane Little League Chaos team. Playing first base and wearing jersey #1, Willa brings focus, energy, and a love for the game that’s been growing strong for the past five years.
Hailing from Hurricane, West Virginia, Willa was inspired by her mom to start playing ball — and she’s been making big plays ever since. One of her top moments this season? Crushing a home run over the fence — a highlight that shows just how far her game has come.
Willa’s favorite athlete is none other than Michael Jordan, the GOAT in her eyes, and her favorite team is UCLA. Just like MJ, Willa brings competitiveness and passion to every sport she plays. Off the diamond, she stays active with volleyball and basketball, proving her athletic talents run across multiple courts andfields.
To Willa, the best part of being on a team is simple: “Hanging out with my friends.” That team spirit and sense of fun shine through in everything she does — from warmups to game time.
With her powerful swing, team-first mindset, and big dreams ahead, Willa Elkins is reaching for the sky — and there’s no doubtshe’llgetthere.
Everett
Clark
PLAYER PROFILE
#15
WINFIELD YOUTH FOOTBALL LEAGUE – D TEAM | #15 | LINE BACKER / RUNNING BACK
In just his second year of football, Everett Clark has already made his mark with big plays and even bigger energy. His favorite moment this season came in a hard-fought matchup against Nitro, when he grabbed a game-changing interception and ran it back for a pick six—a highlight he’ll never forget.
Everett’s love for the game started three years ago while watching WVU football with his dad and brothers. He knew right away that he wanted to be just like the players he saw on TV, and now he’s living that dream on the field. With Saquon Barkley as his favorite player, Everett brings that same mix of determination and excitement every time he laces up his cleats.
When he’s not on the gridiron, Everett stays active and creative. He enjoys playing baseball, hanging out outdoors, and diving into Roblox adventures. For him, the best part of football isn’t just about winning games—it’s about “making new friends and cheering each other on when we get touchdownsordogoodinagame.”
Everett’s biggest role model is his dad, who is always ready to help him get better at football and baseball, while also being the steadysupporthisfamilycancount on. His parents say it best: “We are beyond proud of you for working so hard and trying your best in everything you do. You’re a phenomenal friend, brother, and son. You’re going to do great things, and we are so excited to seewherelifetakesyou.”
With his love of teamwork, his natural talent, and his drive to succeed, Everett Clark is a young athlete to keep an eye on—both on andoffthefield.
Luke
Vaughn
PLAYER PROFILE
# 75
HURRICANE LITTLE LEAGUE – HAMMERHEADS | #75 | PITCHER, OUTFIELD
When Luke Vaughn takes the mound, you can count on a competitive spirit, sharp focus, and a whole lot of heart. A proud member of the Hurricane Little League Hammerheads, Luke’s defining moment this season came when he pitched an entire game without allowing a single run—an achievement that reflects both his skill and his determination to grow stronger with every outing.
Luke has been playing baseball for seven years, driven simply by his love for the sport. Whether he’s striking out batters or covering ground in the outfield, he brings grit and effort to every play, making him a huge asset to his team.
Inspired by MLB star Elly De La Cruz and a devoted fan of the Cincinnati Reds, Luke models his game after players who bring both energy and excitement to the field. But his real role models are even closer to home—his mom, dad, stepdad, and stepmom. “They push me to be better,” Luke says, and it’s clear their encouragement has helped shapehisstrongworkethic.
Off the diamond, Luke enjoys spending time outdoors, especially fishing and hunting. And when it comes to being on a team, he values the unity it brings: “Working together to win” is whatit’sallaboutforhim.
With seven years of experience, a passion for the game, and a drive to keep improving, Luke Vaughn is a standout athlete with a brightfutureahead.
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grant
bird
PLAYER PROFILE
BASEBALL | FOOTBALL | ALL STAR
# 44
Grant Bird, a standout young athlete from Hurricane, WV, has quickly made his mark both on and off the field. Wearing number 44 as a dedicated cornerback, Grant has been committed to his sport for the past five years. Inspired by his love of the game and the opportunity to grow alongside teammates, he has found joy in the competition, camaraderie, and discipline that sports bring. His favorite memory from this past season—playing baseball with his friends—reminds him that the heart of youth sports is about fun, friendship, and creating lifelong memories.
Grant looks up to professional athletes like Jalen Ramsey, known for his toughness and skill, while proudly cheering on his favorite team, the Washington Commanders. But when it comes to true role models, Grant’s greatest inspiration is Jesus, because, as he explains, “He lived a perfect life.” This deep sense of faith not only guides him personally but also shines through in the way he approacheshissportandhisteammates.
Beyond athletics, Grant enjoys spending his time playing football for fun and exploring his love of video games. These hobbies give him a balance between competition and relaxation, allowing him to unwind and simply enjoy being a kid. He also sees the value in team sports beyond wins and losses —pointing out that the best part of being on a team is “meeting new people.” This outlook reflects his appreciation for building friendships and learning from others along theway.
Supported by his parents, Libby and Brian Bird, Grant continues to grow into not only a talented athlete but also a well-rounded young man. They couldn’t be prouder, sharing a heartfelt message: “Grant, you make us proud. We love you!” With his strong character, determination, and faith, there’s no doubt that Grant has a bright future ahead—onthefieldandinlife.
Daniel
Carroll
PLAYER PROFILE
PUTNAM UNITED FC | #13 | GOALKEEPER, STRIKER, WING
# 13
Whether he’s making jaw-dropping saves in goal or launching an attack down the wing, Daniel Carroll is a dynamic presence on the field. A standout player for Putnam United FC’s 2016 Boys team, Daniel recently earned one of the highest honors a young keeper can receive—Male Goalkeeper of the Year— a proud milestone in his already impressive soccer journey.
Daniel has been playing soccer for six years, fueled by a passion for the game and a love for competition. Hailing from Hurricane, WV, he’s a huge fan of the Marshall University Men’s Soccer team and looks up to pro goalkeeper Gabriel Perrotta. But more than anything, Daniel is inspired by his big cousin Grayson—his role model for hard work, loyalty, and support.
When Daniel’s not on the pitch, he’s still staying active and adventurous. He enjoys traveling, riding roller coasters, fishing, and playing other sports like baseball, golf, and basketball. His favorite part about being on a team? “Getting to make friends and having fun,” he says—a reminder that while awards are great, the joy of the gameandthebondwithteammatesmattermost.
With talent in the net, versatility on the field, and a drive to keep improving, Daniel Carroll is a young athlete with abrightfutureandawinningmindset.
Mallory
Tolley
PLAYER PROFILE
Mallory Tolley, a talented young gymnast from Hurricane, WV, has been perfecting her skills for the past five and a half years. Competing at the Xcel Silver level with Revolution Gymnastics, Mallory’s passion for the sport shines through in every routine. This season, she celebrated one of her biggest accomplishments yet—earning 1st Place All-Around and finishing 18th in the State of West Virginia. These achievements reflect not only her natural ability but also the countless hours of hard work and dedication she puts into becoming the best gymnast she can be.
Inspired by her love for gymnastics and her desire to grow, Mallory looks up to the athletes who have paved the way before her. She admires Simone Biles, the world-renowned gymnast known for her strength and courage, as well as her own coaches at Revolution Gymnastics. Another major influence is Emma Mason, a former Revolution gymnast who now competes for the Georgia Bulldogs, proving to Mallory that dreams really can become reality withdeterminationandpersistence.
Outside of gymnastics, Mallory lives a wellrounded life filled with faith, creativity, and fun. She enjoys spending time at church, drawing, singing, and even helping out with everyday tasks like washing dishes. Cheerleading also gives her another way to express her athletic energy and team spirit. Mallory especially values the friendships she has built through gymnastics, saying that the best part of being on a team is the encouragement and support that teammatessharewithoneanother.
Her parents, especially her mom Hayley, couldn’t be prouder of the young woman she is becoming. They shared a heartfelt message: “We are so proud of the hard work and dedication you put in each and every day to grow and develop to be the best gymnast you can be.” With her commitment, faith, and uplifting spirit, Mallory continues to inspire not only her teammates but everyone who has the privilege ofwatchinghershine.
Tobias
Workman
# 23 PLAYER PROFILE
PITCHER/OUTFIELDER
Tobias Workman, a determined young athlete from Hurricane, WV, has been making a name for himself on the baseball field. Wearing number 23 for the Hurricane Little League Braves Minor team, Tobias proudly takes on the roles of pitcher and outfielder. He’s been playing baseball for four years, a journey that began when his parents first signed him up—and it’s clear he’s embraced the sport wholeheartedly. One of his favorite memories from this season was the unforgettable moment when he struck out his first batter, a milestone every pitcher treasures.
A fan of the Cincinnati Reds, Tobias admires players like Mike Trout, whose skill and consistency inspire him to keep growing as both a player and a competitor. But when it comes to true role models, Tobias looks no further than his own family. He describes his dad as his biggest influence—someone who is “generous and hardworking, always there, and a great family man.” It’s this example of character and dedication that Tobiasstrivestofollowinhisownlife.
Off the field, Tobias enjoys a wide range of hobbies that connect him to both the outdoors and unique interests. Whether it’s fishing, hunting, or hiking, he finds joy in exploring nature. He also has a passion for antiquing, showinganappreciationforhistoryandtreasures of the past. These interests give him balance, allowing him to grow as a well-rounded young manwithaloveforadventureandlearning.
For Tobias, the best part of being on a team is the camaraderie—the bonds built with teammates that go beyond the game itself. Supported by his parents, Jason Workman and Emma Ware, Tobias continues to grow in confidence, positivity, and skill. They couldn’t be prouder, sharing a heartfelt message: “Tobias—we are proud of your attitude and positivity, and we can’t wait every year to watch you grow as a player and a young man.” With his character, hard work, and passion for the game, Tobias is poised to make an impact bothonthediamondandinlife.
