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PRESENTS FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

ELIZABETH MAHFOOD

JORDAN JENKINS

2021

SPECIAL SECTION • SUNDAY, MAY 9, 2021

2021 TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH BEST PREPS NOMINEES ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION AWARD FOR FOOTBALL Tyler - Keelan Erwin All Saints - Reid Williams Bishop Gorman - Dozie Ifeadi Grace Community - Alejandro “Alex” Quintero-Argentin Brook Hill - Chandler Fletcher Whitehouse - Braiden Mathews Bullard - Bryce Jewell Lindale - Jordan Jenkins

ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION AWARD FOR VOLLEYBALL Tyler Legacy - Anna Gates Tyler - Eriana Valle All Saints - Shelby Phillips Bishop Gorman - Olivia Roberts Grace Community - Madi Rutherford Brook Hill - Anna Hardee Whitehouse - Rylie Francis Bullard - Libby Eitel Chapel Hill - Mikaylie Borel

AWARD FOR BOYS CROSS COUNTRY Tyler - John Vega All Saints - Caleb Dailey Bishop Gorman - Joseph Benedict Brook Hill - James Jordan Whitehouse - Austin Green Lindale - Jaycob Kenney

AWARD FOR GIRLS POWERLIFTING Tyler - Jaydyn Martin All Saints - Conley Cavender Whitehouse - Reese Roberts Lindale - La’Launa Moffitt

TEXAS BANK & TRUST AWARD FOR BOYS BASKETBALL Tyler - Chris Clark All Saints - Cullen Walker Bishop Gorman - Sid Cleofe Grace Community - Nathan Luce Brook Hill - TyJuan Cannon Cumberland Academy Ethan Montgomery Whitehouse - Hayden Grigsby Bullard - Derek Garces Lindale - Wake Thrasher-Evers Chapel Hill - Tyson Berry Troup - Matthew Castillo

AWARD FOR GIRLS BASKETBALL Tyler Legacy - Micaelah Igaya Tyler - Kamora Jackson All Saints - Sarah Jordan Bishop Gorman - Elizabeth Mahfood Grace Community - Tariyah Hicks Brook Hill - Neeley Clark Whitehouse - Susanna Moran Bullard - Jordyn Martin Lindale - Elizabeth Hutchens

AWARD FOR GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY All Saints - Marian Chapman Bishop Gorman - Tori Burnette Whitehouse - Ashley Smith Bullard - Bethany Routt

AWARD FOR BOYS POWERLIFTING Tyler - Nicholas Cruz-Ortega All Saints - Joshua Joseph Whitehouse - Lance Deal Bullard - John Engle Lindale - Luke Sandifer

J&K STORAGE AWARD FOR BASEBALL Tyler Legacy - William Randall Tyler - Eli Sanchez All Saints - Braden Wheat Bishop Gorman - Anthany Jr. Smith Grace Community Fletcher McCown Brook Hill - Carson Richards Whitehouse - Jackson Conser Bullard - Conner Carson Lindale - Brandon Burckel

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AWARD FOR SOFTBALL Tyler Legacy - Brooke Davis Bishop Gorman Mary Lynn Breedlove Grace Community - Morgan Sumrall Brook Hill - Maeci Wilson Whitehouse - Avery Taylor Bullard - Addison Hooker Lindale - Elizabeth Watkins Troup - Lindsay Davis

AWARD FOR BOYS TRACK & FIELD All Saints - Nick Davis Bishop Gorman Josafat Covarrubias Grace Community - Joshua Murray Brook Hill - William Roberts Whitehouse - Max Clemons Bullard - Blake Blain

AWARD FOR GIRLS TRACK & FIELD Tyler - Asia Smith All Saints - Shelby Phillips Bishop Gorman - Tori Burnette Grace Community - Elayna Metzger Brook Hill - Caley Fitzgerald Whitehouse - Kylee Freeman Lindale - Savannah Petty

AWARD FOR BOYS SOCCER All Saints - Greg Vallejo Brook Hill - Zakhar Zapolskyy Cumberland Academy Andrew LaRoy Whitehouse - Lucas Baum Bullard - Coty Johnson Lindale - Diego Vela

AWARD FOR GIRLS SOCCER Tyler Legacy - Lexie Thedford All Saints - Tate Elfarr Grace Community - Alana Roberts Brook Hill - Kensi Holley Whitehouse - LaKrissa Hester Bullard - Tatum Rigsby Lindale - Bethany Routt Chapel Hill - Mariah Boswell

JACK O’ DIAMONDS LINCOLN AWARD FOR BOYS GOLF All Saints - Garrett Huffman Brook Hill - Noah Nichols Lindale - Jake Fischer

AWARD FOR GIRLS GOLF Tyler Legacy - Charlotte Hackney All Saints - Maggie Maxey Brook Hill - Olivia Kim Whitehouse - Makenzie Alexander

AWARD FOR BOYS TENNIS Tyler Legacy - Brett Bennett All Saints - Ben Kiblinger Brook Hill - Jonathan Humphries Whitehouse - Joriel Almazan Lindale - Andre Samaraweera

AWARD FOR GIRLS TENNIS Tyler Legacy Mair’e Laura (Marla) David All Saints - Lauren Kiblinger Bishop Gorman - Amalie Bender Brook Hill - Nicole Tng Whitehouse - Avril Cook Lindale - Jacey King

AWARD FOR BOYS SWIMMING Tyler Legacy - Chase Fields All Saints - Ryu Martinez Bishop Gorman - Bradley Richbourg Grace Community - Michael Green

AWARD FOR GIRLS SWIMMING Tyler Legacy - Caroline Richbourg Bishop Gorman - Jennifer Natera Grace Community - Talia Thompson

AWARD FOR CHEERLEADING All Saints - Olivia Patterson Bishop Gorman - Sloane Salitore Grace Community - Grace Gordon Brook Hill - Gracie Campbell

STUDENT-ATHLETES PROVE RESILIENCE IN ‘20-21 Last spring was unlike any we have seen in our lifetime. In early March, the whole country basically shut down because of the COVID-19 pandemic. That also meant the playing fields, the courts and diamonds were vacant. Student-athletes missed out on the roar of the crowd and bringing glory to their school and communities. But young people proved their resilience and came back stronger than ever in 2020-21. They excelled at a high level athletically, in the classroom and in the community, and the Tyler Morning Telegraph and TylerPaper.com are proud to shine a spotlight on those deserving studentathletes by presenting the third annual Best Preps Awards. For the second year in a row, athletes weren’t able to be honored in person due to social distancing guidelines, so the event was held online. Coaches from participating schools were asked to submit nominations based on the student/athlete’s

contributions on the field, in the classroom and in the community. Nominees were required to be varsity athletes, have a GPA of 3.0 or better and to have verifiable community service or volunteer credentials of 10 or more hours in the current year. The winners from each sport — football (sponsored by Altra Federal Credit Union), volleyball (sponsored by Altra Federal Credit Union), baseball (sponsored by J&K Storage), softball, golf (sponsored by Jack O’Diamonds Lincoln), basketball (sponsored by Texas Bank & Trust), cross country, swimming, powerlifting, soccer, tennis, track and cheerleading — along with 10 specialty awards, were selected from those nominations. Specialty awards this year included the Heart & Desire sponsored by UT Health East Texas and the Going the Extra Mile Award sponsored by Jack O’ Diamonds Honda, along with awards for Sportsmanship sponsored by Peters Autosports, Outstanding Achievement in Academics,

Community Excellence, Top Male and Female athlete sponsored by the East Texas Professional Credit Union, Coach of the Year and Athletic Director of the Year, sponsored by Peters Autosports. Congratulations to our honored student-athletes and coaches. We are proud to recognize you, and thank you for providing a shining example to others in the community. Also, a big thank you to our sponsors continuing to support these student-athletes. Our Best Preps guest speaker is Philip Humber. As a former No. 3 draft pick and one of only 21 Major League Baseball players to ever throw a perfect game, Humber has more in common with our students-athletes than they realize. He is from East Texas, has lived in Carthage and Tyler, and was given up on several times in his career before reaching the pinnacle. He is an East Texas success story and enjoys being back home where he can work and raise a family. —Phil Hicks Sports Editor

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL BEST PREPS NOMINEES! 5614 S. BROADWAY STORE HOURS MON - SAT 9 AM - 9 PM SUN 10 AM - 6 PM 534-9766 PHARMACY HOURS MON - FRI 9 AM - 7 PM SAT 9 AM - 5 PM SUN CLOSED 534-9105

SUNDAY, MAY 9, 2021 | TYLERPAPER.COM

ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION AWARD FOR FOOTBALL

Dozie ifeadi BISHOP GORMAN HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 3.5

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

“Dozie is the best example of what a Best Prep athlete should be, excellent example of character, determination, sportsmanship and leadership. His talent on the field is often on display and is appreciated by his peers and coaches. Off of the field is where the man that Dozie has become shines even greater, his leadership to mentor younger players to help further the success of the future generations. The character and the leadership of Dozie was on full display when he made hard choices to stay, when many of his close friends chose to leave at the beginning of his junior year.”

2021 Presented by

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“From the moment he walked in the doors of our school, he has been a constant presence in our athletic programs along with serving the greater community of our school. He is the Best Prep athlete of the year.”

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TYLER TX LOCATIONS

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CONTACT US 903-405-1000 • 800-755-0055 • www.altra.org *APY = Annual Percentage Yield. Qualifying accounts will earn 0.0% APY. Account available for Altra members ages 13-23 only. Receive Cash Back Rewards after you make ten (10) Debit Card purchases per cycle. To qualify you must 1) Receive your monthly eStatement at a valid email address; 2) Make ten (10) purchases with your Altra Visa Debit card per cycle ($1.00 minimum purchase per transaction required). Check writing is not allowed. Checks presented against the account may be returned unpaid. Qualified accounts will receive Cash Back Rewards of $0.10 per transaction ($1.00 minimum purchase per transaction required) after the 10-transaction minimum requirement is completed each cycle. Cash Back Rewards will be deposited into the account on the 1st calendar day of the following qualification cycle. If all requirements are not completed and/or posted in any given cycle, the account will not receive Cash Back Rewards for that cycle. Qualification cycle means the full calendar month beginning on the 1st and up to the last calendar day at 2 pm CST. For tax reporting purposes, Cash Back Rewards may be reported as dividends. Membership eligibility required. One account per member; personal accounts only. Not available to Guardianship, Rep Payee, or UTMA accounts. Joint account holder age 18 or over is required if under age 16. Account will automatically transition to an A+ Checking account at age 24. Contact Altra or visit www.altra.org for complete details. Debit card transactions processed by merchants and received by Altra as ATM transactions do not count towards qualifying debit card transactions. Only debit card transactions processed by merchants and received by Altra as Point of Sale (POS) transactions count towards qualifying debit card transactions.

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ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION AWARD FOR VOLLEYBALL

Rylie Francis WHITEHOUSE HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 104.024

WHAT HER COACH SAID

“I had a lot of great candidates for this award in my program this year but what made Rylie stand out was the amount of hours and the type of role she played in her volunteer work. Rylie accumulated 65 hours and for several of her projects she played a lead role in organizing the event. On the volleyball team, Rylie really embodies the idea of a servant leader and it is easy to see how her giving heart benefits the team.”

“She never complains, always has an encouraging voice and a motivating work ethic. She didn’t get as much playing time as her teammates but she always believes in her team and is always willing to put her teammates first.”

2021 Presented by

athlete of the year sponsor

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Celebrity speaker sponsor

Spend Account for members

ages 13-23 Earn cash back Debit Rewards*

TYLER TX LOCATIONS

5523 Troup Highway • 8976 South Broadway • 2815 W SW Loop 323

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AWARD FOR BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

Jaycob kenney LINDALE HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 3.75

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

“Jaycob is an Eagle Scout and an accomplished student-athlete. A three-year letterman in cross country, Jaycob finished sixth at the District 16-4A meet and qualified for regionals. He is a great leader at LHS and an exceptional leader!” 2021 Presented by

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AWARD FOR GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Tori Burnette BISHOP GORMAN HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 4.08

WHAT HER COACH SAID

“I have coached Tori in both track and cross country for six years. In six years, Tori has missed fewer practices than the number of fingers I can count on a single hand. Commitment and dedication are two words that she takes very seriously. Open-minded is another word I would use to describe Tori. Now in her senior year, she can claim to have participated in the following events: 400, 800, 1600, 2400, 3200, 4x200, 4x400, triple jump and the long jump. Many assume that her strongest talents are in distance, but Tori carries in her bag of talents so much more than meets the eye. In her sophomore year, Tori was the only female athlete that I had coached who received All-State honors in both cross country and track in the same school year. Junior year, she was back stronger than ever and ran undefeated in her individual events until COVID shut everything down. With no closure to that season, it left may discouraged and distraught. Tori, however, remained steadfast. The disappointment of last year only fueled her desire to make this season count.”

2021 Presented by

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“Her accomplishments are off the chart and her heart is out of this world.” SUNDAY, MAY 9, 2021 | TYLERPAPER.COM

TEXAS BANK & TRUST AWARD FOR BOYS BASKETBALL

Matthew Castillo TROUP HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 3.75

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

“As Matthew’s high school basketball coach, I feel he embodies the essence of the word “team.” Matthew is also a team captain that leads by example. Discuss student’s character and citizenship: Character is defined as “Mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual.” Matthew possesses the qualities that display integrity and honor. Furthermore, his reputation with his teammates, coaches, and teachers is that deemed dependable, reliable, and impeccable of a studentathlete. Matthew is our undisputed leader on and off the court. He is a positive/ hard working member of our basketball team. I am happy of proud of what he has accomplished.”

2021 Presented by

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Celebrity speaker sponsor

“His commitment to excellence is a major contributor to our basketball program. His aspirations are to attend college and double major in math and computer science. Scholarship opportunities are pertinent to Matthew’s future. He comes from a hard working middle class family of five. His parents are both high school teachers.”

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BOYS BASKETBALL AWARD Sponsored by Texas Bank and Trust

MA ATTHEW CASTILLO TROUP HIGH SCHOOL

SUNDAY, MAY 9, 2021 | TYLERPAPER.COM

AWARD FOR GIRLS BASKETBALL

elizabeth hutchens LINDALE HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 101.261

WHAT HER COACH SAID

“Liz Hutchens is our Lady Eagles basketball Best Preps nominee because she exemplifies everything that it means to be a Best Prep. Liz is a leader amongst her teammates. She cares about the overall wellbeing of everyone on the team and is willing to sacrifice her own self interests to help her teammates. Everyone looks up to her because of her genuine loving and caring personality. Liz is one of the most dependable, responsible and honest people on our team and she leads others into that same model of character through her actions. She has never been late to a practice or game and never complained about any task she has been challenged with. She takes care of all of her basic student responsibilities with excellence and beyond that she competes and practices with her heart.”

2021 Presented by

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“I am so proud to nominate Liz for this award because she is so deserving to be recognized for her positive leadership amongst her peers.”

AWARD FOR SOFTBALL

Brooke davis TYLER LEGACY HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 4.0

WHAT HER COACH SAID “Brooke excels in everything she does. She is currently sitting 7th in GPA out of 500 plus students. In addition to softball she is also an excellent singer of Tyler Legacy Choir. Brooke is the consummate team player. After starting at Shortstop for the past two years, she is our utility player and has played all over the diamond.”

“No one deserves success more than Brooke Davis.”

2021 Presented by

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J&K STORAGE AWARD FOR BASEBALL

Brandon Burckel LINDALE HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 99.543

WHAT HIS COACH SAID “Brandon is a perfect example of being a leader in the studentathlete community. He takes pride on and off the field by his success in signing with the University of Houston, and having a GPA of almost 100. Brandon has so much love for his school and his classmates.”

“Brandon goes to as many school events as he can and is always one of the loudest in cheering on Lindale. He is interactive with promoting teammates on social media as well as in person.”

2021 Presented by

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J&K

Storage Ltd. Congratulations to the Best Preps Baseball Winner

Brandon Burckel Lindale and Congratulations to the Baseball Nominees

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William Randall Tyler Legacy

Anthany Jr. Smith Bishop Gorman

Eli Sanchez Tyler High School

Fletcher McCown Grace Community School Carson Richards Brook Hill

Braden Wheat All Saints

Jackson Conser Whitehouse Conner Carson Bullard

2021

AWARD FOR BOYS POWERLIFTING

lance deal WHITEHOUSE HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 3.8

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

“Lance is a great athlete and competitor as well as an exceptional young man to be around. Lance has been a leader for the powerlifting team and has helped get the program to where it is today. Lance is the epitome of a selfless, hard working young man that not only is top notch when it comes to training and sports but also as a young man with high class and character.”

2021 Presented by

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“Lance has been in powerlifting all four years, qualifying for regionals the last 2 years. Not only because of his own success, but also because of his willingness to always help other, be an example for other lifters, and for being a great you man is the reason he is WHS’ Best Prep nominee.”

AWARD FOR GIRLS POWERLIFTING

jaydyn martin TYLER HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 3.9

WHAT HER COACH SAID

“Miss Martin has been a model student here at Tyler High for the past four years. She has a great attitude and willing to do anything for family, school and friends. She is involved in many programs here at Tyler High. She is going to be asset at any school she decides to attend.”

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AWARD FOR BOYS TRACK & FIELD

blake blain BULLARD HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 5.16

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

“Blake competes in the 110M hurdles, 300M hurdles and as a pole vaulter on our Varsity track team. Our hurdle and vaulting program has respectable depth at both levels because he has been instrumental in getting other athletes to try both events. He takes time to mentor younger athletes even at the risk of them performing better than him.”

“Blake is not only a track athlete at Bullard High School, but a campus leader. As a junior, he is currently in the running for one of the top 3 GPAs spots in his class and is the returning starting quarterback for the Varsity football team.”

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AWARD FOR GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

Savannah Petty LINDALE HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 105.372

WHAT HER COACH SAID

“Savannah is an exceptional student and athlete. She is well respected in our school by her teammates, peers, teachers, and coaches. She makes everything she participates in a lot more fun for all involved.”

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AWARD FOR BOYS SOCCER

Zakhar Zapolskyy THE BROOK HILL SCHOOL | GPA: 3.7

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

“Zakhar is exactly what you want in a player. He is not only the best player to come though my program he is a model citizen and teammate. He always puts others before himself and sets an example as the hardest working player on my team.” 2021 Presented by

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AWARD FOR GIRLS SOCCER

Lexie Thedford TYLER LEGACY HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 4.0

WHAT HER COACH SAID

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“MVP of District 10-6A. Leading scorer on our team and in District 10-6A. Captain for 2 years. 4 year starter. Academic All District 4 years and Academic All State this year as a Senior. Multiple All Tournament teams in 4 years (including this year). Leader at school with student council and in the community”.

SUNDAY, MAY 9, 2021 | TYLERPAPER.COM

JACK O’ DIAMONDS LINCOLN AWARD FOR BOYS GOLF

garrett huffman ALL SAINTS EPISCOPAL SCHOOL | GPA: 89.22

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

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“Garrett has shown remarkable determination in practicing his golf skills during practice and on his own time. He has led the team by both his work ethic and his maturity during tournaments. He has improved more than any other player on the team and has shown consistent concern for his teammates along the way.”

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2021 BEST PREPS BOYS GOLF WINNER GARRETT HUFFMAN

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AWARD FOR GIRLS GOLF

Charlotte Hackney TYLER LEGACY HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 4.0

WHAT HER COACH SAID

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“Charlotte is that traditional hard working athlete that continues to pursue the ability to get better. She is caring about others and how to help them succeed on the team. She is always exhausted due to the fact that she continually works hard at school and extra curricular activities. She is a wonderful young lady with character, integrity and class. She definitely will be missed when she graduates.”

AWARD FOR CHEERLEADING

gracie campbell THE BROOK HILL SCHOOL | GPA: 3.97

WHAT HER COACH SAID

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“Gracie is the perfect best preps nominee. She is a leader spiritually, academically and athletically. She leads by example. Gracie is a hard worker in the classroom, and is an over achiever athletically. Gracie serves as cheer captain of Guard Cheer. Gracie was named to the TAPPS 1st team All State Cheer Team for four years. She is also 2019-20 and 20202021 Academic All State member.” SUNDAY, MAY 9, 2021 | TYLERPAPER.COM

AWARD FOR BOYS TENNIS

ben kiblinger ALL SAINTS EPISCOPAL SCHOOL | GPA: 4.24

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

“Ben is a true definition of servant leadership. As one of the highest rated tennis players in the East Texas area with a UTR of 10.23, it would be easy for Ben to have an arrogant attitude. However, just the opposite is true. Our team looks to Ben for leadership because of his humble and caring attitude, as well as his responsible and honest behavior. He is the 2019 and 2021 TAPPS 4A Boys State Singles Champion(*2020 tournament was cancelled). And while he is certainly worthy of his individual accomplishments, Ben continues to put the team first and is always willing to do whatever is best for the team as a whole.”

2021 Presented by

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“While his skill level exceeds mine, he remains very coachable and is always willing to learn - not only how to be a better player, but how to be a better person. Our team is better because of Ben.”

AWARD FOR GIRLS TENNIS

avril cook WHITEHOUSE HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 94.188

WHAT HER COACH SAID

“Just two years into the high school program and she has already had an incredible impact on her teammates and the culture of the tennis team. By the time district rolled around, she was in the most important singles spot, at number 6 where there is a lot of pressure on a player when matches are tied at 9-all. She displayed her overall toughness in a match on the line. She needed to win in order to help our team clinch a victory for a chance to play in the district championship. She was down 0-6, 0-2 when I walked out to coach her. She said “Coach, I’ll do whatever you ask of me. I know I can win this. I want to win this match more than I’ve ever wanted to win before. My team is counting on me.” I knew right then she was emerging as a leader, because she wanted to win for more than just herself. She battled back to win 11-9 in the third set. Her ability to encourage and inspire others has helped our team reach new heights.”

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“She is competitive, determined and will hold her teammates accountable. Her tenacity, leadership and the willingness to always learn helped her and our team clinch back-to-back district championships and the first area championship in the history of the tennis program at Whitehouse.” SUNDAY, MAY 9, 2021 | TYLERPAPER.COM

M. ROBERTS DIGITAL AWARD FOR GIRLS SWIMMING

M. ROBERTS DIGITAL AWARD FOR BOYS SWIMMING

caroline richbourg

chase fields

TYLER LEGACY HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 4.0

WHAT HER COACH SAID

“Valedictorian of her class with 4.0 GPA. Undefeated in 100 butterfly at districts, school record holder, state championship finalist.” 2021 Presented by

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Celebrity speaker sponsor

TYLER LEGACY HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 3.7

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

“Chase is polite, respectful, and coachable.” “Strong student, leader on team through words and example, never missed or late for practice in four years, always gave best effort and continued to improve. Multiple district titles, multiple regional titles, state qualifier as junior, state finalist as senior, school record holder, All-American consideration 200 freestyle & 100 butterfly, Academic All-American consideration.”

AWARD FOR LACROSSE

dustin miller CUMBERLAND ACADEMY | GPA: 4.0

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

2021 Presented by

“Dustin Miller shows leadership quality both on the field and in the classroom. As our Varsity goalie, he currently holds an exceptional save percentage of 65% while leading the defense to over 60 forced turnovers in 10 games. He shows exemplarily intellect and aptitude performing at the top of his class in every major subject. As a student, as an athlete, and as a person he works to be the best he possibly can be and proudly represents what Cumberland Academy strives to bring out in all its athlete of the year sponsor Celebrity speaker sponsor students.”

2021

TO ALL THE NOMINEES AND WINNERS T

YOUR EAST TEXAS AGENCY mrobertsdigital.com | 903-596-6355

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COACH OF THE YEAR

PETERS AUTOSPORTS ATHLETIC DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR

Chris Cochran

Mike Maddox

LINDALE HIGH SCHOOL | FOOTBALL

“Chris Cochran was named the head coach of the Lindale Eagles football team in 2017.” “He had been an assistant with the Eagles in 2004 and returned to the coaching staff in 2015. But in 2020, Cochran’s bunch did something that had never been done before. Behind nine touchdowns from Jordan Jenkins, the Eagles took a 70-56 win over Needville for the program’s first second-round playoff win in history. The Eagles didn’t stop there. Lindale followed with wins over district foes Chapel Hill and Kilgore to move on to the state semifinals. In the state semifinals against Austin LBJ, Lindale trailed 28-7 at halftime. The Eagles stormed back, and Landon Love’s 18-yard field goal with no time left on the clock gave the Eagles a 31-28 win and their first trip to the state championship. Lindale fell to Argyle 49-21 in the final game. For his efforts, Cochran has been named Best Preps Coach of the Year.”

2021

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LINDALE HIGH SCHOOL

“Mike Maddox took over as the athletic director at Lindale ISD in 2017.”

“That was the same year he received the National Christian Schools Athletic Association Football Coach of the Year award while he was at Grace Community School. Since Maddox has been at Lindale, the athletic teams have been successful. But in 2020-21, Lindale’s athletic program has taken it to another level. For his efforts, Maddox was named the winner of this year’s Best Preps Athletic Director of the Year award. The Lindale volleyball team went 27-1. The Lindale football team was 13-3 and advanced to a state championship game for the first time in program history. The Lady Eagles basketball team finished 24-5 and advanced to the regional quarterfinals. The boys basketball team went 24-6 and advanced to the regional semifinals. The Lindale boys soccer team won 19 games and advanced to the playoffs. The Lindale girls soccer team also qualified for the playoffs. The girls powerlifting team sent nine competitors to the state met. The Lindale boys won the District 16-4A track and field meet and then won the area meet. The Eagles also had pole vaulter Grace Bowman win the Class 4A Region II meet to qualify for state. The girls tennis doubles team of Jacey King and Taegan Michel won regionals and qualified for the state tennis tournament. The Lindale baseball team qualified for the playoffs.”

SUNDAY, MAY 9, 2021 | TYLERPAPER.COM

PETERS AUTOSPORTS AWARD FOR SPORTSMANSHIP

Olivia Patterson ALL SAINTS EPISCOPAL SCHOOL | GPA: 3.93

WHAT HER COACH SAID

“I nominated Olivia for the Best Preps because she has gone over and above during this cheer season. Even though she was hurt and unable to do most of our stunts she was there to encourage and support her teammates and teaching the underclassmen what to do. She has a great attitude and a willingness to want to help others is a joy to watch.”

“She supports her teams on and off the field/court and wants the best for everyone. I am very proud of Olivia in all that she does.”

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JACK O’ DIAMONDS HONDA AWARD FOR GOING THE EXTRA MILE

Joseph Benedict BISHOP GORMAN HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 4.09

WHAT HIS COACH SAID

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“Joseph has qualified for the varsity team 10th, 11th and 12th grade. He was on the state team 11th and 12th grade. Like so many, our season this year started off in segments- a few days here, then break, a few more days, then break again. Joseph was the senior captain for the boys’ team this past season, a role he had earned and a role he took extremely seriously. He kept the team strong, he kept them pushing through, workout after workout, and he maintained highest spirits. Our final regular meet of the season, the entire boys team ran a PR and placed first overall. However, with the state meet getting closer and closer, stress started to rise again, the fear of being quarantined from an exposure from COVID was looming. Joseph decided to cut down his extracurriculars for the two weeks leading up to state; he would only attend school, practice and work. Even on senior night, Joseph showed up briefly for the presentation, then left immediately. He was not taking any chances. Six days leading up to the meet, he wasn’t feeling well, symptoms were worsening, and we just knew; the season he had worked for, for six years was finished. The team he had helped mold would be competing without him. He had run his fastest times in six years and yet he would not have the opportunity to compete in the biggest meet of the year. When word got to the team, every member of the team was completely heartbroken. Joseph, the one who had sacrificed the most, worked the longest and the hardest in arguably the most challenging of circumstances would be the one who would stay behind. Joseph’s next act was one of the bravest and it happened with one phone call to his teammate, who would now be running instead. He congratulated him, told him that this was his team now and to run his heart out, for them both. Where Joseph could have shown despair, he did not. Where he could have turned angry and bitter, he did not. Our last conversation before state, he told me he was grateful to have made it as far as he did, to run his best time at the race that turned out to be the last and that he had no regrets. When the team lined up to the start line, he was on the phone to lead them in prayer and to give them his final words of encouragement. Till the very end: selfless, a true leader, a true teammate and a true warrior. Joseph Benedict.”

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EAST TEXAS PROFESSIONAL CREDIT UNION

FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

BISHOP GORMAN HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 3.5

LINDALE HIGH SCHOOL | GPA: 97.47

Elizabeth Mahfood Jordan Jenkins “Bishop Gorman’s Elizabeth Mahfood is a standout basketball and soccer player.”

WHAT HER COACH SAID

“Mahfood has been selected as the Best Preps Female Athlete of the Year. As a junior, Mahfood led the Gorman basketball team to a record of 25-7, a district championship, a bi-district championship, an area championship and to a regional runner-up finish. Mahfood led the Lady Crusaders to a state ranking as high as No. 2 by TABC and high as No. 4 by TAPPS. Mahfood was the MVP of TAPPS 4A-District 2 after averaging 17 points and 13 rebounds per game. She ranked second in the state of Texas with 24 double-doubles. “She is a tremendous leader who leads by example,” Bishop Gorman girls basketball coach Jon Froelich said. “She is a strong student. She is a huge reason why Bishop Gorman has posted backto-back 20-plus win seasons and has advanced to the playoffs the last two seasons.” Mahfood, who has a 3.5 grade point average, is very active with the Right to Life movement, participated in “40 Days for Life,” has made several trips to Washington D.C. to participate in the “March for Life,” and is a member of the National Honor Society.”

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“Lindale’s Jordan Jenkins has established himself as one of the top running backs in the country. He also was a standout in track and field.” WHAT HIS COACH SAID

“Jenkins has been selected as Best Preps Male Athlete of the Year. “Jordan is one of the best young men I have ever coached,” Lindale head football coach Chris Cochran said. “He has done so much for, not only the Lindale Football program, but also Lindale High School. For the past four years, he has been such a positive role model for his teammates and classmates. He has worked extremely hard and he stands for the right things. I believe he is very deserving of any award that he receives.” The Lindale running back finished his senior campaign with 3,044 yards and 51 touchdowns on the ground to lead the Eagles to their first state championship game in program history. Jenkins also had 24 receptions for 211 yards and three scores. Jenkins is a four-star recruit who signed with Baylor University. Jenkins, who has a 97.47 grade point average, helps wrap Christmas presents and deliver them to veterans, helps with special Olympics, serves food and gives blankets and clothing to the homeless, is a door opener at elementary schools and has lunch with elementary students.”

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SUNDAY, MAY 9, 2021 | TYLERPAPER.COM

AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS IN ACADEMICS

AWARD FOR COMMUNITY EXCELLENCE

ashley smith

coty johnson

“Ashley is phenomenal student and leader at our school.”

“Coty has been a captain for the boys soccer team for 3 years.”

“She excels in the classroom and very active in student government and other activities. She has shown great work ethic in both Cross Country and Track and will always do what she is asked of her without question. She epitomizes what a true at student athlete is. There is no doubt in my mind that she will be very successful in whatever she chooses to do.” 2021

“He was here the inaugural season 4 years ago as well and his leadership on and off the field has been a vital part of why the team has had so much success. Coty is selfless and always puts people before him and very vocal on the field to lead his team. With Soccer we don’t get any time outs or “breaks” so when I need to change something he is coachable and a coach on the field and gets everyone on the same page.”

WHITEHOUSE HIGH SCHOOL

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BULLARD HIGH SCHOOL

UT HEALTH EAST TEXAS AWARD FOR HEART AND DESIRE

Madi Rutherford GRACE COMMUNITY SCHOOL | GPA: 4.0

WHAT HER COACH SAID

“Madi Rutherford overcame a tremendous amount to play this season. She tore her ACL and MCL towards the end of the 2019 season and came back to lead her team to the playoffs. She was the starting setter and also played as middle. Also, her dedication to helping not only hers, but other communities is amazing considering how much she puts into her academics and athletic world.”

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We care for kids … From t-ball to touchdowns At UT Health East Texas, we believe keeping kids healthy is fundamental to their success in sports and in life. We offer the following to keep your kids performing at their best on and off the field: • • • •

Pediatric clinics across East Texas Immunizations School physicals Behavioral health services (ages 3 and up) • Swim lessons • Sports medicine • Orthopedics • Rehabilitation To schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment with a pediatrician near you, call 903-596-DOCS or schedule online at UTHealth UTHealthEastTexasDoctors.com. For more information on these or other programs at UT Health East Texas, visit UTHealthEastTexas.com. UT Health East Texas is an in-network provider for Medicaid and most insurance plans.

TYLERPAPER.COM | SUNDAY, MAY 9, 2021