The Beaver Athletic Department is excited to announce this year’s first recipients of Athletic Accolades, an honor that acknowledges student-athletes who have made important contributions to their teams through quality of play, leadership and sportsmanship. Senior Lexi Knopf (girls’ varsity soccer), sophomore Joe Connelly (varsity cross country), and eighth grader Jordan Gomolin (MS boys’ A soccer) were recognized at an all-school assembly for their achievements.
“We are thrilled to see how our student-athlete’s hard work is paying off with success.,” said Sherry Levin, Director of Athletics. “The Athletic Accolade is an opportunity to recognize student-athletes who contributions on and off the field at the highest level. This first round of accolades was the most competitive group of nominees since the award’s inception in 2008.”
“Team captain Lexi Knopf ’11 is the model of what a captain should be on and off of the field,” says girls’ varsity soccer coach Giovanni Viana. “Off the field, Lexi takes an interest in her teammates and always communicates clearly with the coaches. She is the first one to volunteer and assist the coaches and never misses an opportunity to go the extra mile. On the field, her no-nonsense style of play consistently keeps the team in the game. As a defender — usually the last defender — Lexi has repeatedly saved the team from game-changing breakaways. Her consistency on and off of the field make her the clear choice for an Athletic Accolade.”
“Joe Connelly ’13 has led the charge for Beaver’s cross country team’s 3-0 record,” cross country coach Jake Walter said. “The first meet of the season (at Bancroft), Joe came in second place overall, and first for Beaver. Against Portsmouth Abbey, Joe took first place in a time of 17:20! His commitment to the team, along with his dedication, makes him an outstanding teammate to his fellow runners and the Beaver community.”
“Jordan Gomolin’s ’15 consistent performances on the MS boys’ A soccer team earns him an Athletic Accolade. His technical skill, field vision, and unselfish play has been integral in the team’s 3-0 start. Gomolin has already proved his value on the field by scoring three goals and adding three assists,” praised head coach Jeff Anderson.