Athletes of the Week

Athletes of the Week are selected based on athletic performance and sportsmanship. Positive sporting behaviour is valued at KES and integral to our athletic philosophy and School mission statement emphasizing gentleness, learning, dignity, and respect. These student athletes also reflect the seven principles of “true sport” which states: go for it, play fair, respect others, keep it fun, stay healthy, include everyone, and give back. 

For the week of April 14, 2024:

Although Ali MacLean '27 is one of the most skilled players on our senior girls team, her age prevents her from playing in league games. Luckily, she was able to showcase her dominant athleticism and impressive knowledge of the game at the annual Rugbyfest tournament in Rothesay. As the only player to play both 7s and 15s, she led the 7s team to three wins with several tries and endless conversions followed by stepping in as an integral player as a fullback for our 15s team. Not only is Ali an outstanding player on her own, but she defines what it means to be an unselfish team player. Keep up the great work Ali!

Sierra Phillips '25 stood out as a valuable player at the annual Rugbyfest tournament in Rothesay. She was incredible on defense, ran through people on offense, and demonstrated the most devastating tackles. She continues to prove that she is a dependable player in all aspects of the game. Additionally, she is the first to encourage and support her teammates and is a valuable leader on the team. Well done as always, Sierra!

Tommy Upton '26, still in his Grade 10 year and one of the younger players on the senior boys rugby team, led the squad to a 27-5 victory over Central King's on April 16. He characterized his play with excellent leadership at the fly-half position, coordinating the rest of the team. He tackled extremely well, and he is one of the only people who can catch Yuta's bullet passes every time. The team has continued to benefit from Tommy's skills and excellent work ethic. Good work, Tommy!

Yasu Hojo '25 pitched a complete game in a 7-2 win against Middlesex School, only throwing 86 pitches through seven innings. Yasu’s performance set the tone for the rest of the trip as the squad made major adjustments during the next two games. He is not only a force on the baseball field and an asset to his Highlanders team, but he also maintains extremely high personal academic standing and mentors a number of the younger baseball players in their academic endeavours. We will depend on Yasu as we move further into the stretch.

At our home Highlanders Rugby Classic tournament this past weekend, Ava Shearer '24  proved yet again that no one can dig deep quite like her. With many players out due to injury, Ava stepped up as a leader and stood out as an athlete. The second she gets the ball, she tucks her chin to her chest and sticks out her arm – everyone knows to move out of the way. With an injured foot, she still managed to score over 50% of our points with 11 of our 20 tries. Well done, Ava!

Kim Walsh
Director of Athletics