Best of Preps 2026

BEST OF PREPS

ASHE • WATAUGA • AVERY

STUDENT-ATHLETE AWARDS 2026

Cade Keller

MEN’S STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Watauga Football TEAM OF THE YEAR

Addison Dollar

WOMEN’S STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Best of Preps 2026

Each year, the Best of Preps process reminds us what high school athletics is really about — and the 2026 class is no exception. The winners highlighted in these pages are a testament to the hard work these student-athletes have committed to making their teammates, schools, and communities better — all while setting a high bar in the classroom.

What stands out most about this year’s honorees is the academic standard they’ve set. These student-athletes have proven themselves champions well beyond their sports.

Mountain Times Publications, which includes the Watauga Democrat, The Avery Journal-Times and The Ashe Post and Times, annually organizes this special edition to honor local student-athletes. Best of Preps recognizes student-athletes and coaches across more than 20 sports.

In addition to each sports team, individual awards include 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 Coach of the Year Award.

One athlete from each sport, nominated by that team’s coach, was selected from each school. A committee worked to determine the best athletes from the nominees. As always, academic performance carries significant weight in the evaluation — often, tenths of a GPA point separate winners from finalists. That margin speaks to just how accomplished this group is across the board.

In addition to the accolades and celebrations for Avery, Watauga, and Ashe County student-athletes, area businesses also sponsored awards.

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.

The 2026 Best of Preps class has shown that competing at a high level and excelling academically aren’t competing priorities — they go hand in hand. Congratulations to each honoree and to the families, teams, and schools that shaped them into the remarkable young people they’ve become.

Keller Cade

On Friday night, Dec. 12, Cade Keller helped lead the Watauga football team to the 2025 North Carolina High School Athletic Association 6A championship.

Less than 24 hours later, with no formal practice time, the senior was on the hardwood, helping the Pioneer basketball team to an early-season victory at Ashe County.

Keller went from one sport to another twice this school year and did not miss a beat; for his efforts and several other accolades, he was selected as the Best of Preps Men’s Student-Athlete of the Year by Mountain Times Publications.

“One of Cade’s biggest challenges was being a three-sport athlete while playing three major sports (Keller was also the starting third baseman for Watauga’s baseball team). Many athletes struggle with committing and dedicating time to playing one sport in high school, but Cade excelled at three sports,” said Watauga head boys basketball coach Bryson Payne. “The amount of time and dedication he put into building his skills, body, and athleticism was far greater than your average high school athlete.

“During the school year and summer, Cade often attended multiple practices per day and sometimes had individual speed/strength workouts on top of those practices,” added Payne. “He did all of this while also maintaining great academics and high character in the classroom.”

The state championship wouldn’t be the only milestone that Keller reached in December.

During the High Country Holiday Classic on Dec. 27, Keller set a new program scoring record with 45 points during the tournament opener and reached 1,000 career points during the contest.

Later in the season, Keller eclipsed the all-time scoring record and set a new

MEN’S STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

record with 1,416 points and the most career 3-pointers made with 193. Keller also finished fourth all-time for assists with 268.

His performance earned him his third All-Northwestern Conference honor and a spot on the first team for the North Carolina Basketball Coaches Association All-District 11 team.

His basketball accomplishments came after a fantastic fall where he threw for 3,164 yards and 39 touchdowns (compared to three interceptions) on 200-of-262 passing as quarterback for the Pioneer football team.

On the ground, the senior and Wingatesignee rushed for 683 yards and 12 touchdowns on 86 carries.

“Cade demonstrated exceptional patience, resilience, and maturity throughout his journey, waiting his turn behind a talented quarterback in Maddox (Greene). Despite not starting early in his career, he stayed committed to his development, continued to work within the program, and prepared himself for his opportunity,” said Watauga head football coach Ryan Habich. “In his first year as the starting quarterback, he made the most of that chance by delivering an elite, award-winning season at the highest level of competition. His ability to stay ready, trust the process, and ultimately excel as a first-year starter speaks volumes about his character and work ethic.”

After leading the Pioneers to a firstround bye in the state basketball playoffs, Keller turned his attention to playing third base and pitching for the Pioneer baseball team.

The senior was a big part of Watauga’s deepest playoff run in the last decade, when it advanced to the third round of the 6A playoffs.

Watauga was one of four teams from

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the conference to reach at least the third round of the state playoffs (three others reached the fourth round and two of them — Alexander Central and South Caldwell — played in the 6A West Regional final).

Keller batted .295 for the 17-11 Pioneers and was second on the team in runs batted in with 21. He also finished with 23 hits, which was fourth-best on the team.

On the mound, Keller finished with a 2.62 earned run average and a 1-1 record in seven appearances.

“Cade has been a generational athlete for Watauga. One of the best basketball players to come through not only Watauga, but the entire High Country,” said Payne. “His stats and accolades speak for themself, and he did all of this while also playing two other varsity sports (football and baseball) and excelled at both of them too. He broke a scoring record that has been held for over four decades.”

Keller was an all-conference selection in all three sports he played.

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Dollar Addison WOMEN’S STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Not many high school athletes have the drive to compete in four different sports and volunteer over 800 hours of community service, but Addison Dollar certainly found the time and energy to make her senior season one to remember.

During her fall sports season, Dollar helped lead the Ashe County Lady Huskies to the dual-team playoffs, including a victory over Maiden. In the individual tennis championships, Dollar reached the 4A semifinals, advancing to the state final four.

“Addison represents the very best of high school athletics. In just one season, she stepped outside of her comfort zone, embraced a brand new sport, and helped make school history as part of the first relay team to reach regionals,” Ashe High School swim coach Adam Widner said. “Her growth, determination, and unwavering team-first mindset set the standard for what it means to be a teammate. Addi’s impact goes far beyond times on a scoreboard- she changed the culture of our program and proved that leadership is about heart, effort and putting others first. She is truly deserving of the Best of the Best Preps recognition.”

Following her tennis season, Dollar decided to challenge herself by competing in two winter sports, indoor track and swimming. This was her first year competing on the swim team, and despite taking on a brand-new sport, Dollar earned all-conference recognition and helped one of the relay teams earn a regional qualifying spot.

Dollar found success in both indoor and outdoor track this season, helping the women’s track team finish third in the Mountain Valley Athletic Conference Championship this spring.

“Addison is a dedicated and

hardworking student athlete who truly deserves Best of Preps recognition. She consistently goes above and beyond in her training, putting in extra time and effort to improve her game. Her commitment has led to significant achievements, both individually and with her team. Addison balances academics and athletics with discipline, sportsmanship, and a strong passion for tennis, making her an outstanding representative of a studentathlete,” said Ashe County Head Coach Amy Dollar. Outside of her athletic success, Dollar has played an important role in helping many people in the Ashe County community, contributing over 800 hours of community service during her four years of high school. Dollar has volunteered at the annual Project

ASHE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

Addison Dollar finished up her senior tennis season as a regional runner-up. Dollar also competed in both the indoor and outdoor track seasons and was an all-conference swimmer in her first and only swim season.

Graduation event, as well as with the Ashe County High School Booster Club, Phoenix Baptist Church, and Meals on Wheels through the Ashe Senior Center. Following graduation, Dollar plans to attend Appalachian State University for two years, majoring in Marketing and double-minoring in Finance and Organizational Leadership. She plans to receive both a Master’s in Business Administration and a PhD in Educational Leadership.

Football Watauga TEAM OF THE YEAR

The 2025 Watauga High School football team will arguably go down as one of the best, if not the best, in school history. That great season has earned them the 2026 Best of Preps Team of the Year award from Mountain Times Publications.

The Pioneers capped off a historic perfect 2025 season with the first-ever NCHSAA 6A championship in a 47-25 win against Middle Creek inside Kenan Stadium on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in December.

The Pioneers became the second team in WHS history to win a North Carolina High School Athletic Association state championship. The team matched the 1978 squad with a state title and was also the first program to go undefeated for the entire season at 15-0.

“Bringing a state championship back to Watauga County after 47 years is really special to our community,” said Head Coach Ryan Habich. “Jack Groce was the AD the last time that they won a state championship, passed away last year. I was at his funeral with all the players, and I met all the players from the 1978 team that won a state championship. There’s so many things that happened this year that would not have happened without God.”

Whether it was Evan Burroughs having a career-game in the state championship, J.W. Mills becoming one of the Pioneers most consistent tacklers, Cade Keller’s consistency under center throughout the season, Brady Lindenmuth and Thomas Deiters leading the defensive charge, Bowen Mayo with his performance in the 6A West Regional or Nyle Peays scoring a touchdown on his final play of his high school career, and so many others — it was a collective effort by every single Watauga player.

“This team just has so much grit. That defensive line, I’ve been playing with them

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forever, and I trust them to do their job, and they trust me to do my job. Our trust for each other and our ability to get after it really made a difference in the early portion of the game,” said senior captain Brady Lindenmuth, who finished with a trio of tackles, including two for a loss and a sack in the state championship.

One of the things that made this team so unique, and a big challenge for opponents, especially in the postseason, was the ability for someone new to step up nearly every game.

Just during the postseason alone, Miller Hankins was making his only field goal of the season to take the lead against Sun Valley in the fourth round of the 6A playoffs.

Everett Gryder, who made his return to the defensive side of the ball this season after playing primarily on the offensive side the year before, sealed the victory with a game-winning interception.

“I feel on top of the world, just ecstatic. I couldn’t imagine another place that I’d want to be right now — this is the only place I want to be,” Gryder said just

minutes after the final horn sounded against Sun Valley. “We worked all year for this, all summer, our preparation, all those sprints in the summer, when it’s absolutely dying hot, you’re sweating and everything. All of our weight programs — it just all led to this, and we’re so happy to be here; I love all my teammates, and I wouldn’t want to do it with a better group.”

In the next round against Northern Guilford, with a trip to the state championship at stake, the Pioneers trailed 42-35 late in the game. Watauga would march down the field, and Keller would find Matthew Leon for a 9-yard touchdown with 47 seconds to play.

Instead of the potential game-tying extra point, head football coach Ryan Habich and Watauga elected to go for two.

The decision paid off as Keller rolled out to find Mayo in the end zone, and the senior caught the pass amongst heavy traffic for the one-point lead.

It was arguably the biggest reception (though unofficial in the stats) the senior caught in a game where he finished with a game-high seven receptions for 136 yards

and three touchdowns.

“We get close like that; we’re not going to go for the tie; we’re going for the win — there was no doubt in my mind. The only question was what play we’re going to call; we’ve practiced about three different twopoint plays, and we got a chance to run the ones that we practiced,” Habich said about deciding to go for two. “Cade made a great second read. He made a great read coming off his first read, hitting Bowen on the second read, and he was playing a position that he usually doesn’t play. He usually plays right wing, but he played X-receiver because now (Nyle) Peays is out, so Cade made a great throw and a great big-time catch by Bowen.”

Watauga outscored its opponents 675234 during the season and did not allow more than 21 points in a regular-season game (prior to the playoffs); the Pioneers scored 40 or more points in 12 of their 15 games this season.

Off the field, 10 different Watauga players have signed to play a sport in college, including seven signing for football.

Gryder Everett PERSEVERANCE AWARD

Everett Gryder personified this school year what it means to leave it all out on the field.

The Watauga senior collected his first career interception during the Pioneers’ fourth-round win in football against Sun Valley. A week later, he turned in a gritty performance as Watauga won the North Carolina High School Athletic Association 6A West regional title.

Little did people know that Gryder, a senior, had been dealing with a knee injury he sustained during the Pioneers’ regular-season finale at St. Stephens nearly a month earlier.

During the 6A West final with Northern Guilford, Gryder tore his meniscus and had to miss the state championship game. The senior had surgery on Thursday, the day before the Dec. 12 state championship, which took place the next day.

Gryder did get the chance to enjoy the whole state championship experience, even if it was from the sidelines. But he had one non-negotiable — one that showed the bond he and his teammates had.

“I was playing injured, and I kind of completely destroyed it against Northern Guilford. I actually got surgery the Thursday before going down to the state championship, and my one nonnegotiable was that I’d be able to ride the bus,” Gryder said earlier this spring. “The rehab process was pretty hard for me because I really couldn’t move at all. I had to crutch everywhere. I couldn’t put any pressure on it, but I think it really was beneficial to me to know that as a man of faith, sports wasn’t everything, it can be taken away just like that, really helped me.

WATAUGA HIGH SCHOOL

“It helped me with this experience of not playing as much as I’m used to due to injury, and it helped me resonate with that.”

With a daunting rehab process, Gryder wondered whether he would be able to play his final baseball season. The senior had been one of the Pioneers’ top pitchers the previous two seasons.

The early portion of Gryder’s season was spent watching from the dugout while, at times, charting pitches for his teammates, as he waited for the green light to come back.

Gryder’s first game back in the lineup came on the mound at Davie County on March 7, but he has been limited there due to another injury — this one to his shoulder.

The contest with North Surry the following week signaled his return to the batter’s box, and he certainly made the most of it with a walk-off three-run homer to defeat the Greyhounds in extra innings.

The long ball culminated what had been a near three-month journey back from injury. It was also his only long ball of the season; he finished with 11 hits for the season and 14 runs batted in.

Gryder made four appearances on the mound this season and won one of those outings. The senior struck out six and allowed 11 hits in eight innings of work.

“I was so excited because that was my first game back; I couldn’t really run, so, you know, I figured I might as well be able to jog around the bases. The guy in front of me (Kwame Carter) got intentionally walked. I took that as they don’t think I can hit,” said Gryder about the walk-off homer against the Greyhounds. “I got a first-pitch fastball up and in; that’s my pitch and just got a

Watauga’s Everett Gryder comes out with his teammates for the coin toss before the 6A state championship football game.

good pitch to hit and hit it out. To be able to do that after coming off injury and not

knowing if I was going to play at all this year, it was surreal.”

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Elliott Athena

Athena Elliott, a 2025-26 senior at Watauga High School, has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Best of Preps Community Excellence Award in recognition of her dedication to community service and leadership throughout her high school career.

Elliott has served as the Student Representative on the Watauga County Board of Education since 2024, where she advocates for her classmates and keeps board members informed on what is happening inside the school. She also serves as a USA Swim Association representative for the Watauga Swim Team, a Pioneer Ambassador, a Link Crew Senior Mentor and Senior Class Secretary. She is a member of the Interact Club, Sustainability Club — where she serves as secretary — Mountain Alliance and Athletes for Good, and has participated in the Blue Ridge Energy Student Leadership Track since 2022.

When Hurricane Helene tore through the community, Elliott stepped up tangibly — helping organize and manage the community resource center at Watauga High School.

She also works as a lifeguard and swimming instructor at the Watauga County Recreation Center, a position she has held since 2024, and was named the Pioneer Spotlight Award recipient for character and personal achievement.

“It is tough to be the youngest child in a successful family. The expectations can be overwhelming, and the shadow they cast can be daunting. Athena chose her own path and worked throughout high school to be known for her accomplishments,” said David Gragg, WHS swim coach. “She could have been a four-time MVP on other teams, but never begrudged a teammate for winning the award. Her senior season is one of the

COMMUNITY EXCELLENCE AWARD

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most decorated ones we have ever had in our program.”

That decorated senior season includes First Team All-Conference honors all four years of high school and backto-back NCHSAA State Championship qualifications in 2025 and 2026. At the 2026 NCHSAA 6A State Championships, Elliott earned silver in the 50 Free, tied for silver in the 200 Medley Relay and bronze in the 200 Free Relay. At regionals, she took silver in the 50 Free, tied for gold in the 200 Medley Relay and

silver in the 200 Free Relay. She holds school and conference records in both relay events and was named Swim Team Captain and Team MVP in 2026. She also earned the Mountain Mover Award in volleyball in 2023.

Academically, Elliott is a Park-Stamps Scholar at NC State University, class of 2030, a National Honor Society member, an AP Scholar Award recipient from The College Board and a member of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for two-year colleges, since 2025. She attended the United States Air Force

Academy Summer Seminar in June 2025 — a nod to her goals beyond graduation. After college, Elliott hopes to serve her community and country as a U.S. Air Force pilot, calling it an “opportunity to be a part of something that’s so much bigger than myself, and to be able to serve everyone around me.”

The Best of Preps Community Excellence Award recognizes studentathletes who demonstrate outstanding character and service beyond their athletic achievements.

Habich Ryan COACH OF THE YEAR WATAUGA HIGH SCHOOL

Since arriving in the High Country back in 2013, Ryan Habich has wanted to help put Watauga football on the map.

The Pioneers’ head man has done just that during his 13 seasons at the helm, as his teams have won multiple Northwestern Conference championships and scored some big postseason victories — many of them coming at home.

Habich has compiled a 130-31 record during his coaching tenure at Watauga, including going undefeated in the regular season each of the last three years.

But this year’s Pioneers were one for the record books as they became the second team in program history to win a North Carolina High School Athletic Association state championship.

The Pioneers matched the 1978 squad’s state title and became the first program to go undefeated for the entire season at 15-0, leading Habich to be named the 2026 Best of Preps Coach of the Year by Mountain Times Publications.

“I moved to Watauga 13 years ago after coaching at Fuquay-Varina (down outside of Raleigh). I remember leaving there, and all the people in that area were asking me, ‘Where’s Watauga?’ and you had to tell them that Watauga is right next to Appalachian State in Boone. I think everyone now knows where Watauga County is, and I think it’s a testament to our players,” Habich said during the state championship press conference. “For the last 13 years, we’ve been pretty successful. It’s our kids, the way they represent the Watauga community, not only on the field, but off the field as well, too. I couldn’t be more proud of these players right here, our team out there, and what they mean to the community.”

In addition to capturing its eighth-

straight NWC championship, Habich was also named Co-Coach of the Year by the Northwestern Conference.

Off the field, seven of Habich’s players signed to play football at the college

level, and three others signed to play a sport at the college level.

“To have this many players sign is definitely an honor, definitely a testament to these seven individuals

along with our community, their parents; all come from great families, very supportive — I think we really have that here at Watauga,” said Habich back during a March signing ceremony.

Herbert Addison SOFTBALL STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR AVERY HIGH SCHOOL

Addison Herbert was a consistent force inside the circle as the ace of the Avery Lady Vikings pitching staff. Herbert, a four-year starter for Avery, began pitching for the Big Red her freshman season and developed into the team’s top and most reliable hurler. Herbert played a vital role in each of Avery’s wins in her senior year, helping lead the team into the state 2A playoffs. Herbert also demonstrated resilience in overcoming injuries suffered during her prep career, both on the diamond and on the basketball court, where she was a starting guard for the Lady Vikings basketball team. Herbert was named AllConference, as well as received the Avery High School Female Scholar Athlete of the Year Award, and was named Western Highlands Conference Scholar Athlete of the Year.

Weighted GPA: 4.7

Achievements and Awards: Advanced Placement - A Honor Roll (2022-Present), Junior Marshall (2025), AP courses (AP Earth, AP World), OSHA Certified, Mayland President’s List (Fall 2024 and Spring 2025), Dual Enrollment (began in August 2024); Received an Associate’s Degree in Arts in May 2026

Volunteer and Community Service: - Key Club (2022-Present), Beta Club (2022-Present), Student Council (2025-Graduation), Newland Elementary Field Day, Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival, Belview Baptist Church Vacation Bible School, Avery County Hurricane Relief, Volunteer Scorekeeper For Volleyball Club, Avery High Blood Drive, Prom Committee, Basketball, Volleyball and Softball Camp Counselor, Student Council Service, Road Cleanups, Sports Teams Fundraiser Work, Grandfather Mountain Highland Games volunteer

Coach’s Comments: “Addison Herbert is a standout student-athlete whose impact extends far beyond the field, making her a deserving Best of Preps nominee. As a multi-year varsity starter, team captain, and dominant presence at both pitcher and shortstop, she consistently

demonstrates elite performance, composure, and leadership under pressure. Off the field, her exceptional 4.70 GPA, advanced coursework, and dual enrollment success reflect the same discipline and commitment she brings to softball. Combined with her extensive

community service and unwavering character, Addison exemplifies the complete student-athlete and elevates everyone around her.” (Avery High School Softball Coach Mike Jackson)

Finalists: Charlotte Moretz (Watauga) and Addison Williams (Ashe)

Tibbs Jordan BASEBALL STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Jordan Tibbs did a little bit of everything for the Ashe County Huskies on the baseball diamond. Tibbs led the team in batting average (.461), on-base percentage (.523), home runs (3), stolen bases (11), doubles (11) and pitching ERA (1.77) during the 2026 season. His efforts helped the Huskies reach the second round of the NCHSAA 4A Playoffs. Tibbs wrapped up his career with 111 hits, 95 RBIs and now holds the school record with seven career home runs. Tibbs will be continuing his baseball career collegiately at Mars Hill University.

Weighted GPA: 4.396

Achievements and Awards: Varsity baseball: 2023-26 - Mountain Valley 2A/3A/4A All-Conference player in 2026. Broke the Ashe County High School home run record with seven during his career. Also had 111 career hits and 95 RBIs. Struck out 209 batters in high school career. Named Good Iced Tea Player of the Week by Baseball University of the Blue Ridge in March 2026. Named to the 2025 NCBCA 3A All-State Team. Chosen to attend Region 7 NC Body Armor State Games at UNC-Greensboro in 2025. Named Ashe County’s Offensive Player of the Year and a Northwestern 3A/4A All-Conference player in 2025. Tied the school record in 2025 with four home runs hit in a single season and ranked second in the Northwestern 3A/4A Conference in home runs. Nominated for and won Utility Player of the Year at the 2nd Annual Hot Stove Dinner Awards. 2024 Pitcher of the Year, Northwestern 3A/4A All-Conference player, Northwestern 3A/4A AllTournament Team. 2023 Utility Player of the Year, Northwestern 3A/4A honorable mention. Played in competitive travel baseball tournaments since 2013. Varsity basketball: 2024-26 - 2026 Leadership

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Award, 2024 Most Improved Player Award. JV basketball: 2023 - Coaches Award. Beta Club 2025-26, JROTC Highest Academic Award, 2023, 2024 and 2025, JROTC DAV Award – Keeping Our Promise to American Veterans Award in 2025, Junior Marshall in 2025

Volunteer and Community Service: Volunteer for the Ashe County Booster Club Prime Rib Dinner annually; volunteer for Ashe County Parks and Recreation’s annual coaches’ clinic all four years of high school. Active in volunteering

Coach’s Comments: “This student athlete is a Best of Preps nominee for baseball because he has been the rock that this program was built on for the last four years. With a relentless work ethic and want to win, he is a person everyone around him can look up to. From leading by example on the field to being a leader off the field, this

multi-sport athlete by winning numerous level achievements while maintaining excellent grades in the classroom and volunteering at school, church, and in the community. Jordan Tibbs is a standout. Any coach, team, or community would be lucky to have him.” – Coach Samuel Tibbs Finalists: Finley Trivett (Avery) and Daniel Jones (Watauga)

Stough Lily

Whenever Watauga’s track and field team needed points during both the indoor and outdoor seasons’ biggest meets, Lily Stough proved she could deliver. Stough, who has signed to compete in track and field for North Carolina State University, had to overcome a major obstacle early in her high school career when her longtime coach, Michael Neff, passed away unexpectedly during her sophomore year.

“Before his passing, he was a constant source of motivation, encouragement, and leadership for her as the primary jumps coach. He had a unique way of pushing her to improve while keeping practices positive and enjoyable,” said Watauga head track and field coach Scott Townsend. “When he unexpectedly passed away, it changed the environment of the team and forced her to face adversity in a way she never had before. Without Coach Neff’s daily guidance and encouragement, she had to learn how to motivate herself and approach both athletics and personal growth differently. She could no longer rely on Coach Neff to push her through difficult practices, setbacks, or moments of self-doubt. Instead, she had to develop more of her own self-discipline, accountability, and resilience.”

Stough turned that inspiration into a decorated prep career, during which she claimed 16 medals at Northwestern Conference championship meets. During indoor this past winter, she garnered a quartet of medals (including a pair of runner-up finishes) on the way to helping the Lady Pioneers win the inaugural North Carolina High School Athletic Association 6A championship. This past spring, the senior built off that by winning the 6A state championship

in the long jump while helping the Lady Pioneers claim a runner-up finish in the outdoor state championships. In addition to the state title, Stough added medals in the triple jump (second) and high jump (3rd) and a fifth-place showing in the 400 meters to score 28 of Watauga’s 91 points during the meet.

Weighted GPA: 4.43

Achievements and Awards: Caldwell Community College Presidents List (Spring, Summer, Fall semesters)

National Honors Society, two-time DECA District Award Winner in Sports and Event Marketing Category, four-time NHSTFXCCA All American (Indoor Track & Field), 2026 NCHSAA 6A Sportsmanship Award (Indoor Track & Field), NCHSAA five-time State Medalist (Indoor Track & Field), three-time NHSTFXCCA All American (Outdoor Track & Field), 2025

NCHSAA NW Conference Track Athlete of the Year (Outdoor Track & Field), 2026

NCHSAA NW Conference Track Athlete of the Year (Outdoor Track & Field), NCHSAA 16-time Northwestern Conference Medalist (Outdoor Track & Field), 2025 Outdoor Adidas Nationals All-American, 2025 North Carolina All-State team, 2026 North Carolina All-State team.

Volunteer and Community Service:

Watauga High School Indoor Track and Field, Watauga High School Outdoor Track and Field, Tempo Sports Academy Club Track and Field, Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA), National Honors Society, Athletes For Good (AFG), Sustainability Club, Waypoint Outfitters trail and river clean ups, Samaritan’s Purse Hurricane Helene relief efforts, Watauga High School Hurricane Helene relief efforts, Casting Bread Hurricane Helene relief efforts, Watauga Humane Society - Volunteer, AFG- Donate

WOMEN’S TRACK AND FIELD STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

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to Humane Society, Hospitality House and food pantries, Youth track camp assistant.

Coach’s Comments: “Lily has been one of the most consistent staples of the Watauga Track and Field program in the past four years. She is a top points producer and state-leading performer. Her current marks have her in the topthree in multiple events in the State

across all classifications. She is the consummate student-athlete balancing both her academic life and athletics with excellence; she is the epitome of what the Best of Preps is trying to highlight with their awards.” (Watauga head track and field coach Scott Townsend.)

Finalists: Kaydence Menifee (Avery) and Gracie Finley (Ashe)

Greene Sawyer

Ashe County senior Sawyer Greene has been one of the top track athletes throughout his career. A five-time conference champion across multiple events in outdoor track as well as a conference champion and two-time state qualifier in indoor track, Greene made his mark in the hurdles events and in several field events.

This year, Greene qualified for the NCHSAA 4A Track & Field Championships and finished sixth in the state in the high jump and seventh in the state in the 110-meter hurdles.

Weighted GPA: 4.758

Achievements and Awards: Five-time conference champion in outdoor track. Conference champ and two-time state qualifier in indoor track. Team captain. Associate in Arts - WCC Outstanding Arts

MEN’S TRACK AND FIELD STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR

ASHE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

Sawyer Greene won multiple event championships in track and field and qualified for the 4A state championship meet in two events this spring.

and Science Award - WCC Presidents List every semester from WCC, Presidential Scholar Scholarship from High Point University, second place for the state Beta competition as a freshman, first place at the regional math Beta competition as a sophomore - didn’t get to take the state test because he was out of town.

Volunteer and Community Service: Sawyer volunteers at middle school track

meets and assists with coaching the middle school high jumpers and hurdlers. Helped deliver supplies for Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. Three years of volunteering at Merlefest.

Coach’s Comments: “Sawyer is a pleasure to coach. He is always willing to take advice and consistently puts in the work necessary to get better, as well as to be one of the top students academically. He is a team leader, voted

captain by his peers. He consistently leads through example and is the perfect example of the type of student-athlete that coaches and teachers love to have. He is a genuinely caring and nice person and is always considerate of others.”Alex Rollins

Finalists: Nyle Peays (Watauga) and Davis Crenshaw (Avery)

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Keller Cade FOOTBALL STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Cade Keller certainly made the most of his only season under center for the Watauga football team. Entering the 2025 season, Keller had seen limited time under center after playing behind former dual-sport athlete Maddox Greene.

But once he took over, the senior earned a slew of accolades. Some of those included being named the Northwestern 6A/7A Conference’s Overall Player of the Year and was the Most Valuable Player on Offense of the North Carolina Coaches Association’s East-West all-star game while also leading the Pioneers to a 6A state title. Keller threw for 3,164 yards and 39 touchdowns (compared to three interceptions) on 200-of-262 passing. On the ground, the senior rushed for 683 yards and 12 touchdowns on 86 carries. Those performances helped him be named to the High School OT All-State first team as well as earn National Guard Carolina Prep Player of the Week honors for week eight of the season. Keller has signed to play football for Wingate.

Weighted GPA: 3.91

Achievements and Awards: First Team All-Conference, Conference Overall Player of the Year, Mr. 6A (6A Player of the Year), 6A State Championship Game Offensive Player of the Game, NCCA East-West All-Star Game Offensive Player of the Game, First Team All-State QB selection (All Classifications).

Volunteer and Community Service: Volunteered at youth football camps; volunteered at youth basketball camps and assisted with Samaritan’s Purse storm recovery efforts during his junior and senior years.

Coach’s Comments: “Cade is a highly deserving Best of Preps nominee after

WATAUGA HIGH SCHOOL

an exceptional senior season marked by elite performance and leadership.

Earning first-team all-conference honors, conference player of the year, and 6A

NCHSAA Player of the Year highlights his dominance at the highest level of

competition. He elevated his play in the biggest moments, being named Offensive Player of the Game in both the 6A State Championship and the NCCA East-West All-Star Game. His selection as a first-team All-State quarterback

solidifies his status as one of the top players in the state.” - Watauga head football coach Ryan Habich

Finalists: Bryce Peters (Ashe County) and Oak Markland (Avery County)

Overcash Lorali

Volleyball success just runs in the family for Lorali Overcash. Her older sister Paige shined at Ashe County High School and earned a scholarship to Liberty University. Now Lorali has wrapped up her high school career and will play collegiately at Emory & Henry. Overcash played a key role in helping the Lady Huskies finish 26-9 overall and leading the team to the fourth round of the state playoffs. Overcash was all over the court this season, leading the team with 83 service aces and was second on the team in kills with 257, second in assists with 381 and third in digs with 280.

Weighted GPA: 4.41

Achievements and Awards: Threeyear varsity starter, all-state honorable mention, three-year all-conference, Emory and Henry commit.

Volunteer and Community Service: Hurricane Helene relief, Operation Christmas Child volunteer, Samaritan’s Purse volunteer, Ashe County Food Pantry volunteer, ran Future Lady Husky Volleyball Camps (four years).

Coach’s Comments: “Lorali is an excellent example of what high school athletics should produce. She is a leader on the court, in the weight room, in the classroom, and in her community. She has a servant’s heart, helping her community in a time of need as well as to build a better future for young athletes coming up through the school system. Her leadership, work ethic, and commitment have been a valuable part of building our volleyball program into what it is today.” - Dalton Lewis

Finalists: Hallie Johnson (Avery) and Emma Pastusic (Watauga)

VOLLEYBALL STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR

ASHE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

Dollar Addison

Addison Dollar’s impressive list of tennis accolades from her freshman season all the way through her senior year will be remembered as one of the top tennis careers at Ashe County High School.

Dollar was named team MVP all four years and saved her best for last by reaching the final four in the 4A tennis state championship this fall. Off the court as a student at the Ashe Early College, she spent over 800 hours of community service helping with numerous organizations in Ashe County.

Weighted GPA: 4.632

Achievements and Awards: MVP for four years on the tennis team, Regional Qualifier for tennis, Finished top 4 in the state, NC Governor Award for community service work, Golden Racquet Award for dedication and commitment to the sport of tennis over the past four years

Volunteer and Community Service: Addison has completed over 800 hours of community service work during her past four years of high school. She works with Project Graduation, the ACHS Booster Club, Forrest Ridge, and makes cards for Meals on Wheels and Phoenix Baptist Church.

Coach’s Comments: “Addison is a dedicated and hardworking studentathlete who truly deserves Best of Preps recognition for tennis. She consistently goes above and beyond in her training, putting in extra time and effort to improve her game. Her commitment has led to significant achievements, both individually and with her team. Addison balances academics and athletics with discipline, sportsmanship, and a strong passion for tennis, making her an outstanding representative of a studentathlete.” - Coach Amy Dollar

Finalists: Larson Berry (Watauga)

WOMEN’S TENNIS-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

ASHE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

Mash Andrew MEN’S TENNIS STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Since his first year, Ashe County High School junior Andrew Mash has been the top-seeded athlete on the tennis team and has continued to improve as his career has progressed. Mash helped the Huskies qualify for the NCHSAA 4A Men’s Tennis Dual Team Playoffs this year and qualified for the individual tournament as well. Mash researched the 4A West Championship match before falling to the eventual state champion. Last fall, Mash competed in the Boys’ 16U USTA Tennis Tournament at Deer Valley Racquet Club in Boone. He won four of his five matches in the tournament, dropping the championship match in a tiebreaker.

Weighted GPA: 4.3

Achievements and Awards: No. 1 seed for Ashe County for the past three years, Team MVP for the past three years, Regional runnerup (2026), top four (4A) players in the state championship (2026).

Volunteer and Community Service: Andrew is involved in the community and serves on the Ashe County Teen Court.

Coach’s Comments: “Andrew is a true leader. He leads by example through his work ethic, attitude, and commitment to the team. He is always willing to support and mentor his teammates, helping them develop their skills and confidence. His positive influence has played a significant role in fostering a strong and supportive team culture.” - Coach Travis Richardson

Finalists: Evan Cutlip (Watauga)

ASHE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

Henson Chloe

Ashe County High School senior Chloe Henson was a three-sport athlete this year, devoting her time to cheerleading in the fall, indoor track in the winter and outdoor track in the spring. Henson has been a hard worker in her sporting career and in the classroom.

She was recently chosen as one of seven students in Western North Carolina to receive the George H.V. Cecil Journey Scholarship. The scholarship provides renewable four-year awards of $8,000-$12,000 to high school seniors in the western portion of the state.

Weighted GPA: 4.6

Achievements and Awards: Most Spirited - Fall 2025 cheerleading season, Junior Marshal - 2025 Graduation Ceremony. Accepted to UNC Chapel Hill, plans to attend starting the 2026 fall semester.

Volunteer and Community Service: Indoor track during the winter season at ACHS, track and field during the spring season at ACHS, community service at Project Graduation. She has also raised money with the help of Frosty’s Choose and Cut to sell her own little trees called “Chloe’s Little Trees” around Christmas time. The money raised from these trees goes directly to St. Jude’s Family Hospital.

Coach’s Comments: “Chloe has such enthusiasm with everything she pursues. She always puts others ahead of herself and works hard to make sure the team is where it needs to be. She strives to be a team player, and will always have a smile on her face!”Coach Laken Osborne

Finalists: Carly Vance (Avery County) and Brecken Sauthoff (Watauga County)

CHEERLEADING STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR

ASHE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

Zhu Felice

This year, Felice Zhu had the unique qualification of being the only male swimmer for the Ashe County High School swim team. Zhu continued to improve his swimming speed, earning the team’s Most Improved Award for the second time. He also received honorable mention recognition for his third-place finish in the 200-yard freestyle swim in the Mountain Valley Athletic Conference Championship and now holds the Ashe County High School record for best time in the 100-yard backstroke.

Weighted GPA: 4.652

Achievements and Awards: AP Scholar with Distinction, Junior Marshall, Student Council’s Most Promising Award, Best Academic and AP Biology Student, Summer Venture’s Research Award, twotime Most Improved Award winner in swimming.

Volunteer and Community Service: Family responsibilities: Manager at family restaurant, research (published research in Morganton Scientific), Mu Alpha Theta (President), Student Council (President), Tutoring, Beta Club.

Coach’s Comments: “Felice’s journey as a swimmer is a true example of growth and perseverance. When he first joined the swim team, he was extremely nervous and still developing his swimming skills, but he committed himself to learning and improving every day. Through hard work, he transformed into a standout swimmer for our team and now holds the school record in the 100-yard backstroke. Felice is also always being kind to everyone he sees; he has such a positive attitude that it makes him deserving of recognition as a Best of Preps nominee.” - Coach Adam Widner

Finalists: Lanson Gilbert (Watauga)

MEN’S SWIMMING STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR

ASHE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

Looking

Dollar Addison WOMEN’S SWIMMING-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Ashe County senior Addison Dollar decided to take on the challenge of competing in a new sport in her final year of high school. Dollar had such an immediate impact on the swim team that it qualified its first-ever relay team for regional competition. Dollar was also an all-conference swimmer this year, another impressive feat for someone competing in a sport for the first time. Dollar is a multi-sport standout at ACHS, also competing in track & field and tennis.

Weighted GPA: 4.78

Achievements and Awards: Governor Award for Volunteer work, Ashe County Youth Volunteer Award, MVP in tennis (all four years), tennis Conference Player of the Year, all-conference in tennis (four years), regional qualifier (four years), state tennis qualifier (two years), Track - all-conference (four years), regional qualifier in track (four years), state qualifier in track (2026), all-conference in swim (2026), regional qualifier in swim (2026), made school history in swim by being on the first relay team to qualify for regionals, also made school history by being in the top four of individual tennis players in the state out of 312 players.

Volunteer and Community Service: Completed over 800 hours of community service during her four years of high school. She has volunteered with Project Graduation, ACHS Booster Club, Westwood Elementary School, Phoenix Baptist Church, Meals on Wheels and other various organizations.

Coach’s Comments: “Addison represents the very best of high school athletics. In just one season, she stepped outside her comfort zone, embraced a brand-new sport, and helped make school history as part of the first relay team to reach regionals. Her growth, determination, and unwavering team-first mindset set the standard for what it means to be a teammate. Addi’s impact goes far beyond times on a scoreboard — she changed the culture of our program and proved that leadership is about heart, effort and putting others first. She is truly deserving of the Best of Preps recognition.” - Coach Adam Widner.

Finalists: Athena Elliott (Watauga)

ASHE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

Johnson Hank

A two-sport student-athlete at Avery High School, Hank Johnson was a total package on the basketball floor for opponents to deal with, combining ball handling of a point guard with a pure shooter’s touch. A 1,000 point scorer for the Vikings, Johnson averaged 19.5 points per game, shooting more than 48 percent from the field and 31 percent from three-point range. A 73-percent free-throw shooter, Johnson also snatched more than five rebounds per game and averaged more than one steal per game in his senior season.

Johnson was a member of the All-Western Highlands Conference Basketball squad on three separate occasions. Johnson will continue his athletic career at the collegiate level, receiving a golf scholarship to attend Gardner Webb University.

Weighted GPA: 4.17

Achievements and Awards: 3x AllConference Basketball, 4x All-Conference Golf, Career 1,000 point scorer, AllConference, All-Tournament Team Basketball, Golf Scholarship to Gardner-Webb Volunteer and Community Service: Member of Basketball and Golf Team; Extensive Community Outreach and Volunteer Work, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene; Volunteers with EC classes at high school.

Coach’s Comments: “Hank is a dedicated and exceptionally mature young man with an unparalleled work ethic. He is a continuous leader by example who does whatever it takes to see his team be successful, and goes above and beyond to uplift his teammates. He is a gifted scorer, shooter, distributor, and leader, and he is a true tone-setter for his team.” (Avery Boys Basketball Coach John Gage)

Finalists: Cade Keller (Watauga) and Bryce Peters (Ashe)

MEN’S BASKETBALL STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR

AVERY HIGH SCHOOL

Johnson Hallie

From a young age, basketball has coursed through Hallie Johnson’s veins. From beginning to play at a young age as a coach’s daughter to serving as a ball girl for the Avery Lady Vikings basketball program as a youth to anchoring the team’s backcourt as a varsity player, Johnson has been an ever-present fixture around the Lady Viking hoops program. As both a volleyball setter and basketball guard, Johnson has earned all-conference accolades. Johnson averaged 6.6 points, 2.3 assists, 2.5 rebounds and 2.3 steals per game on a Lady Vikings team that was Western Highlands Conference 2025-26 regular-season co-champions and finished with a 20–5 overall record and an appearance in the state 2A hoops tournament. Johnson achieved these accolades while overcoming adversity, suffering a torn tendon in her foot that cost her half of her freshman season, then a torn ACL in the following spring, which cost her her sophomore season. Johnson has been a varsity starter at Avery for more than three seasons.

Weighted GPA: 4.6

Achievements and Awards: 3x All Conference Basketball, 2x All Conference Volleyball, MVP Avery County Women’s Basketball 2023, Comeback Player of the Year Avery County Women’s Basketball 2025, Avery High School Female Athlete of the Year 2026

Volunteer and Community Service: Hallie works as a coach and referee with the Avery County Parks and Recreation Department. She volunteers for Avery County Women’s Volleyball and Basketball Camps. She is also a volunteer for Tommy Burleson Basketball Camp.

Coach’s Comments: “Hallie has led Avery County women’s basketball for the

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR

AVERY HIGH SCHOOL

last four years as the point guard. She is a great leader and an even better human being. She is determined and overcame an ACL tear during her sophomore season. Hallie is compassionate and a wonderful example to younger players. She has a desire to grow the

game in Avery County and has worked tirelessly to ensure that younger kids have a great experience at camps and in the recreation leagues. She is also an outstanding student; she is No. 2 in her graduating class and graduated with her Associate’s Degree from Mayland

Community College before her high school graduation in May.” (Allison Phillips, Avery High School Women’s Basketball Head Coach)

Finalists: Josie Mayo (Watauga) and Taryn Kilby (Ashe County)

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Flores Lily WOMEN’S WRESTLING STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Lily Flores carved her own niche in Avery High School Athletics history in 2026. After placing at the state girls wrestling championship as a junior, Flores honed her craft and dominated the opposition in 2026 en route to a state tournament title at 157 pounds, the first female Avery wrestler to accomplish the milestone. Flores, who earlier in her prep career was also a standout soccer player, shifted her focus to the mat, and the decision paid significant dividends. Balancing school, work and wrestling, Flores placed at regional competitions on three occasions during her time at Avery High School, often pressing her male teammates in practice with her skill set.

Weighted GPA: 4.0

Achievements and Awards: Three-time regional placer, twotime state placer, 2026 state champion, the first female state champion for Avery County.

Volunteer and Community Service: Does volunteer work at a local nursing facility.

Coach’s Comments: “Lily is one of the hardest workers I have ever coached, male or female. She is a very determined young lady, finishing second as a sophomore and being injured last year. She said she would win a state championship her senior year, and she would not be denied.” (Avery High School Head Wrestling Coach Brandon Burleson)

Finalists: Charlotte Rosenbalm (Watauga)

AVERY HIGH SCHOOL

Smith Gabe

Ashe County senior Gabe Smith earned over 150 wins during his high school wrestling career. This year, Smith was a Mountain Valley Athletic All-Conference wrestler, a conference champion, and was named the MVAC Most Outstanding Lower Weight Class Wrestler. His biggest achievement was finishing on the podium at the NCHSAA 4A Wrestling Championships, taking third place overall at 144 pounds. Overall, Smith earned two conference championships and was an all-conference wrestler during all four years of his high school career.

Weighted GPA: 4.407 Achievements and Awards: A-Honor Roll from Kindergarten through the present. Perfect attendance in many High School classes (2022-2026). 2x Bulldog Award winner (highest award possible for middle school [2020-2021, 2021-2022]). 2x NCHSAA Wrestling State Qualifier (2023-2024, 2025-2026). Top 5 at the HOSA Regional Competition in the Physical Therapy category (20242025). Placed in the top 10 out of over 200+ students in the North Carolina HOSA State Competition in the Physical Therapy category (2024-2025). Leader in the Ashe County Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) group (20242025, 2025-2026). On the “panel” at a big FCA Banquet, where only four people were selected, out of the High Country, to talk to sponsors (two coaches, one college student, and one high school student). Selected by Ashe County’s Athletic Director to attend a state-wide leadership conference where only four males (and four females) were selected (2024-2025). Shadow the Head of the PT Department at Ashe Memorial Hospital, Dustin Absher, in the summer of 2024.

MEN’S WRESTLING STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR

ASHE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

Accumulated approximately 200 hours of community service. Junior Marshall in the 2024-2025 school year. BETA Club Senior Representative in the 2025 Induction Ceremony. Finished 7th out of 200+ participants in the 2025 Regional HOSA Conference in Nurse Aide skills. Honored to be selected as one of 20 Roan Scholarship Finalists at ETSU (2025-2026). Achieved 150+ varsity wrestling wins (2022-2026). Named the 2025-2026 2A/3A/4A Mountain Valley Conference MOW (Most Outstanding Wrestler) and the Most Outstanding Lower Weight Wrestler of the year (2025-2026). A 2x Conference Champion and 4x All-Conference Wrestler (20222026). The 2026 NCHSAA Wrestling State Tournament 3rd place wrestler at the 144lb weight class (2025-2026). ACT WorkKeys Test Platinum-level award (2026). Top 10 finalist in the HOSA State Leadership Conference Nursing Assisting category (2026). Observed 9 cataract removal surgeries in Wilkes County under Dr. Tyler Davis (2026). Coach of Wrestling Club (2026). Ashe County Best of the Best Student Invitational recipient (2026).

Volunteer and Community Service: 5th Quarter (since 2023) at Ashe County High School. Sound System Operator (since 2018) at Restoration Church. Outpatient Volunteer at Ashe Memorial Hospital. Wrestling Tournaments (Ashe County Youth Wrestling Tournament) set up and officiate. Ashe County High School Open House (ambassador). Hurricane Helene relief

Coach’s Comments: “Christ-centered young man. He has worked on and off the mat with his future in mind. Exceptionally hard-working and has never been in trouble. A leader by

setting the example for all other athletes.” - Coach Brandon Dillard

State Champions High Country

From first-ever school champions to ending a long drought, Watauga, Ashe, and Avery County student-athletes had a banner year. With 11 state champions across the three high schools, this year’s Best of Preps created a special category to honor these standout athletes and teams.

AVERY HIGH SCHOOL

• Lily Flores - 1A/2A Girls Wrestling

• Avery Girls Golf Team - 1A/2A Golf Champions

ASHE HIGH SCHOOL

• Gracie Finley - Pole Vault, indoor track and outdoor track

• Jude Tilley - Shot put, indoor track and outdoor track

WATAUGA HIGH SCHOOL

• Watauga Football - 6A Champions

• Watauga Girls Cross Country - 6A Champions

• Watauga Girls Indoor Track and Field - 6A Champions

• Sydney Helms - Pole Vault, indoor track and outdoor track

• Coy Johnson - Shot Put, outdoor track

• Lily Stough - Long Jump, outdoor track

• Nyle Peays300-meter hurdles, outdoor track

State Champions High Country

Triplett Solomon

For most of Solomon Triplett’s four years playing Watauga soccer, he was part of a two-goalie platoon. But Triplett waited patiently for his opportunity to come; once it did, he made the most of it as he helped the Pioneers reach the fourth round of the North Carolina High School Athletic Association 6A playoffs.

“Solomon competed all four years with another goalkeeper his age and class that was also a phenomenal keeper. Sometimes he was the starter, and sometimes he lost the job as the starter to his teammate,” said Watauga head men’s soccer coach Josh Honeycutt. “He never once boasted if he was starting or complained if he wasn’t. He just continued to lead, encourage, work hard, and earn everything that he was awarded. If he wasn’t in the starting role, he was still a captain leading from the sideline and wearing the armband, but when he was called upon to be the guy, he was always ready and rose to the challenge.”

Weighted GPA: 4.536

Achievements and Awards: 2026 NWC 6A-7A Conference Player of the Year and All Conference, 2026 West Region All Region, 2026 Team Captain, selected to the 2026 NCCA East-West All Star Game, 2026 Team Voted MVP, two-time All Conference Selection, National Honors Society Member, Watauga Allied Health Sciences Award Winner, 2022 JV Team Coaches Award Winner

Volunteer and Community Service: Fifty-plus hours of community service after Hurricane Helene, five years as a USSF soccer referee, member of the first HCSA State Cup Champion Team in 2025, CNA/Intern at Watauga Medical

MEN’S SOCCER STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR

WATAUGA HIGH SCHOOL

Center ICU, HOSA President, Youth Soccer Coach, 15 hours volunteering as a goalkeeper coach with HCSA, member of Watauga YoungLife, member at Boone United Methodist Church.

Coach’s Comments: “Solomon is a coach’s dream come true. He is always happy, positive and a joy to be around. He is extremely coachable and always

wants to work harder to be better. He is a true leader. He was an unbelievable captain on our team this year, constantly encouraging the team to be their best. He also leads by example, picking up equipment or trash left behind, but also in the classroom. He sets the standard in the classroom, has an amazing GPA, and holds major titles

in school clubs; not to mention, he was incredible on the pitch, not allowing any goals in the entire conference season, earning the Conference Player of the Year Award. (Watauga head men’s soccer coach Josh Honeycutt).

Finalists: Luke Tracey (Ashe) and Josh Lewis (Avery)

Weigl Chloe

Chloe Weigl made a big leap between her junior and senior years playing soccer for Watauga, and it showed on the pitch this spring. The senior registered 10 goals this season, with six of them coming during the Lady Pioneers’ run to a share of the Northwestern 6A/7A Conference championship.

One of her biggest goals of the season came in Watauga’s overtime win against Burlington Williams in the second round of the North Carolina High School Athletic Association 6A playoffs. She also had an assist in that match and a helper in the next round at Asheville in the third round. Weigl was among the selections to this year’s AllNorthwestern Conference team as she also finished with a team-best 11 assists.

Weighted GPA: 4.52

Achievements and Awards: Women’s Golf Student-Athlete of the Year Award, 10th Grade. Given to one female athlete from the Western NC region for academic and athletic excellence and service to the community. NWC Women’s Golf Conference Player of the Year, 12th Grade. National Honor Society Member, 11th – 12th Grade; National STEM Honor Society Member, 12th Grade Excel/lead peers in STEM settings and conduct research projects. AP Scholar with Distinction College BoardAwarded for demonstrating outstanding college-level achievement through successful performance on multiple AP exams. National School Orchestra Award Recognition for excellence in playing and significant contribution to the ensemble, Watauga High School Orchestra, Freshman and Sophomore. MVP Award, awarded to the most

WOMEN’S SOCCER STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR

WATAUGA HIGH SCHOOL

valuable orchestra member of the class. Women’s Golf All-Conference Award, 11th Grade.

Volunteer and Community Service:

Alliance Bible Fellowship Kid Zone

Sunday School Teacher, 9th – 12th Grade. Assist elementary-age children in activities and lessons at the local church/ STEM Kids Member, 11th – 12th Grade. Helped elementary-age children with STEM activities and projects.

Sustainability Club Member, 9th – 12th Grade. Participated in river cleanups, learned from professionals about

sustainable practices, and advocated for conservation efforts. Glory Days Camp Counselor, July 2024. Taught kids teamwork, soccer, and sewing at the Alliance Bible Fellowship Watauga Youth Basketball Camp Coach, June 2023. Taught principles of basketball to young girls and refereed small-sided games.

Hurricane Helene Relief Volunteer, 11th Grade. Assisted in Samaritan’s Purse and local cleanup efforts and distributed supplies at local churches and schools.

Coach’s Comments: “Chloe is an incredible young soccer player but

also many other sports (primarily golf). She’s an academic at heart, though. Her questions on the training ground are often about academia, research. etc. She has a great mind for her studies, and her awards and honors speak for themselves. I can’t imagine anyone being more qualified for this award than Chloe.” Watauga head women’s soccer coach - Ash Morgan

Finalists: Caitlin Shapiro (Avery County) and Keslyn Durham (Ashe County)

Salinas Anasofia DANCE STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

WATAUGA HIGH SCHOOL

Weighted GPA: 4.574

As the Watauga High School senior class president, Anasofia Salinas continually challenges herself with a demanding academic course load while also taking on leadership roles and actively participating in extracurricular activities, including dance.

According to her coach, her ability to balance these commitments demonstrates strong dedication, time management, and perseverance.

That balance is reflected in the breadth of her involvement, from her

work as a Pioneer Ambassador and member of the National Honor Society to her years on the dance team, where she now serves as captain. Whether in the classroom, the community, or the studio, Salinas has built a reputation for showing up with focus and purpose — qualities that have earned her recognition at the local, regional, and national level.

Achievements and Awards: Junior Marshall, AP Scholar 2024, AP Scholar with Distinction 2025, Big Future National Recognition Program School Award, Big Future National Recognition

Program Rural and Small Town Award, NYCDA Regional Outstanding Dancer, 24Seven Nonstop Dancer, MA All Star Performer, MA Grand Champion, Pacer MVP 2023, 2024, 2025

Volunteer and Community Service: Interact Club, Design Club, Student Council, Senior Class President, Pioneer Ambassador, Athletes For Good, National Honor Society, French Honor Society, STEM Kids, The Carolina Snowbelles, The Space @ Project Dance Competition Team, Hubbard Street Dance Company Repertoire Summer Intensive Coach’s Comments: “As a dancer

and leader, Anasofia has consistently exemplified respect, dedication, and maturity. Her selection as captain reflects not only her technical skills but also her ability to inspire, guide, and support her peers. She has enriched the team both on and off the field, handling challenges thoughtfully and modeling the qualities of a servant leader. Her confidence, positive outlook, and commitment to excellence are evident in everything she does. Her dedication and work ethic to the team have been so impactful that they inspire me daily to be a better coach.” - Coach Laura Carson.

Walker Zeke

Zeke Walker had a memorable senior season as a Watauga distance runner across all three sports seasons. The senior certainly became one of the leaders for the Pioneers during a cross country that saw them win a 21stconsecutive Northwestern Conference championship this past fall.

Running alongside the likes of former Pioneers Will Bradbury and Sam Nixon during his first two seasons with the Pioneers, Watauga head cross country coach Randy McDonough felt that Walker “came into a successful program and was very overwhelmed,” and went through the growing pains of being a varsity athlete.

But with the help of upperclassmen teammates, Walker was able to adjust and turn into a leader. He went on to become a key member of the Pioneers, qualifying for the North Carolina High School Athletic Association state championships as a team each of the last two seasons. In addition to taking second place in the NWC championship race, Walker finished 16th during the NCHSAA 6A West regional championships.

Weighted GPA: 4.583

Achievements and Awards: Threetime all-conference, Conference Championship meet runner-up, Allstate chorus.

Volunteer and Community Service: Tech Crew at church, Church Youth Band leader, Eagle Scout, WHS Sustainability Club officer, Helene Relief.

Coach’s Comments: “Zeke was a great leader on the Cross Country

MEN’S CROSS COUNTRY STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR

WATAUGA HIGH SCHOOL

team. He helped the coaches work with the young runners to bring them along gradually and make the future

of Watauga cross country better. You could always count on Zeke finishing a task or a race. He was a true leader on

the team.” - Coach Randy McDonough

Finalists: Josh Anjerok-Dellinger (Avery)

Holtsclaw Addison

Addison Holtsclaw demonstrated her ability to remain in the race for the long haul both academically and athletically. As a leader on the Avery Women’s Cross Country team, she led the way in timing as well as being a mentor to teammates, while also balancing schoolwork and responsibilities off the course.

Holtsclaw practiced the discipline she learned as a JROTC cadet and staff officer, which translated into the same approach to her studies and running, leading her to rank among the top five students in her graduating class.

Weighted GPA: 4.547

Achievements and Awards: Mayland Community College Honor Roll, Avery High School A Honor Roll, Top 5 of the Avery 2026 class, CAD Certified

Volunteer and Community Service: JROTC staff officer

Coach’s Comments: “Addi is an extremely motivated athlete, and her discipline translates very directly into the classroom as well. She is among the top in her class as a result of her hard work and dedication. In cross-country, she showed up every day willing to put in the work to be a talented runner, and by the end of the year, she accomplished that. However, even with all the love she put into cross country, she always put being a student first, and she would regularly make scheduling requests based on her academic needs!” (Avery High School Cross Country Head Coach Josh Gregory)

Finalists: Emily Lewis (Ashe County), Cali Townsend (Watauga)

WOMEN’S CROSS COUNTRY STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR AVERY HIGH SCHOOL

GossHadley WOMEN’S GOLF STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Hadley Goss has played two years of golf at Ashe County High School, but her impact on the program was felt in ways more than just on the scorecards turned in at the end of each round.

Goss was chosen as a team captain during the 2025 season, and her leadership skills were invaluable to her teammates and head coach Nathan Colvard. Off the course, Goss spent nearly 200 hours volunteering on numerous projects and fundraisers to benefit students at ACHS and the community as a whole.

Weighted GPA: 4.46

Achievements and Awards: Superintendent’s pick for NC Governor’s School of Dance (2024 application round), Junior Marshall, 2025 HOSA Chapter President.

Volunteer and Community Service: ACHS - supported student health screenings, events, classroom activities, and facility upkeep. Assisted at local festivals, charity fundraisers, and disaster relief efforts, helped organize silent auctions and bake sales for HCPAA fundraising, and obtained a total of 189 volunteer hours.

Coach’s Comments: “Hadley has only played competitive golf for two years, but she was a Team Captain this year because of her work ethic and leadership. She is a tremendous leader and is one of the most decorated students we have had at ACHS.” - Coach Nathan Colvard

ASHE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

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Johnson Hank

A multi-sport athlete at Avery High School, senior Hank Johnson has consistently ranked among the top golfers in the state of North Carolina throughout his prep career, despite only playing competitively since his middle school years. Johnson holds the school record for best round, as he carded a 65 in conference competition, while also competing as an all-conference guard on the Vikings basketball team.

Johnson placed 12th overall at the 2026 state boys golf tournament, one of two Vikings who qualified for the tournament. Johnson was named Western Highlands Conference Golfer of the Year in three of his four seasons at Avery and named allconference all four seasons.

Weighted GPA: 4.1

Achievements and Awards: 3 time Conference Player of the Year. School record 65. 2025 NC All State 2nd team. Ranked #1 in state for 2A.

Volunteer and Community Service: Basketball. Hurricane Helene recovery around Cranberry Middle School and Linville Land Harbor. Hank also helped run the Tommy Burleson Basketball camp grades 1-8.

Coach’s Comments: “Hank is a hard worker and pushes his team to success. He commits to everything he does whether on the team or off the team. He is a good role model for the younger boys on the team and they look up to his leadership every day.” (Coach Mike Shook, Avery Golf)

Finalists: Jake Warren (Watauga) and Braxton Watts (Ashe)

MEN’S GOLF STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR AVERY HIGH SCHOOL

Mance Ike

Following a year in which Watauga boys’ lacrosse graduated a recordsetting goal scorer and its top-five scorers, the Pioneers were in search of someone to help replace them. After waiting his turn the last two seasons, Ike Mance stepped up to fill that mantle, and the junior helped lead the Pioneers to new heights during the 2026 season.

As the Pioneers’ leading scorer with 66 goals, the junior helped Watauga set a new school record for wins in a season with eight; the Pioneers also returned to the North Carolina High School Athletic Association playoffs for the first time since 2017. Thanks to Mance’s four goals against Western Guilford, Watauga bested the Hornets to win the program’s first-ever playoff game.

In addition to the playoff win, the Pioneers also picked up their first-ever wins against both Asheville and T.C. Roberson while besting Hickory for the first time since 2013. Mance had at least a hat trick in all three matches (including eight against Asheville). Mance also assisted on 17 other goals this season.

Weighted GPA: 4.5

Achievements and Awards: First-Team All-Conference, second in goals in a season (in program history, 10 goals in a single game this season.

Coach’s Comments: “Ike is a workhorse. He works harder than anyone I know and is never content. He walks away from every game, win or lose, wishing he had done more; he strives for greatness on and off the field.”

(Watauga head boys lacrosse coach John Merritt)

MEN’S LACROSSE STUDENTATHLETE OF THE YEAR

WATAUGA HIGH SCHOOL

Sibley Willa WOMEN’S LACROSSE STUDENTATHLETE

Willa Sibley exemplified what it meant to be a captain both on and off the field for the Watauga women’s lacrosse team this spring. Whether it was scoring a goal on the field or offering support from the sidelines, the junior midfielder and attacker did a little bit of everything for the Lady Pioneers. Sibley helped Watauga return to the North Carolina High School Athletic Association playoffs this spring for the first time since 2015.

The junior battled a broken finger during a game this season but persisted and found ways to stay involved in both practices and games safely — serving as a captain even though she wasn’t able to play. Her hard work paid off, as she missed only a couple of games before returning to the field.

Weighted GPA: 4.34

Volunteer and Community Service: French Honor Society, National Art Honors Society, volunteers at Ablerec, hostess at FizzEd.

Coach’s Comments: “This athlete is a spectacular example of good sportsmanship, self-discipline, positivity, and leadership. As a junior, Willa has stepped up to the plate as a team captain and has shown her team how to exemplify grit and strength throughout the highs and lows, support for everyone, and a drive to learn and grow on and off the field. She is driven by growth and positivity and inspires the whole team to be better.” (Watauga head girls lacrosse coach Blythe Ransdell)

OF THE YEAR

WATAUGA HIGH SCHOOL