Category: News | Northwest Conference

Cubs Athletics Person of Distinction – Kelly Hawkins

04/22/2024 by kowen

NORTHWEST CONFERENCE – PERSON OF DISTINCTION AWARD

The Northwest Conference puts high value on celebrating our students, programs and communities throughout the school year. From “Leaders in Sportsmanship,” to “Coaches vs. Cancer” and “Only 7 Seconds,” The Northwest Conference consistently goes above and beyond with outreach to every school and their corresponding communities.

Each school in the NWC will have the opportunity to highlight someone from their community as a “Person of Distinction.” This honor will celebrate someone associated with each athletic program and draw a spotlight on the amazing selfless people who help make this conference so special!

Sedro-Woolley Athletics

Person of Distinction – Kelly Hawkins

We are extremely excited to recognize Sedro-Woolley High School CTE Business Teacher & ASB Advisor Kelly Hawkins. Kelly is one of the hardest workers in the school district and constantly strives to improve the lives of our students. Kelly is involved with things such as daily announcements, many pictures at events, assemblies, dances, organizing homecoming, attends concerts/plays and many more countless events at the high school. Her work with the yearbook, career planning and other duties that help assist the leadership students is admirable and such a gift to anyone that has the pleasure of coming into her life.

Kelly Hawkins is the epitome of student support. Her countless hours of support goes above and beyond the contract she is given. It is pretty safe to say that Kelly cares about kids. She cares about them as students and more importantly cares about their future lives as productive members of our community. Thank you Kelly for your dedication to Sedro-Woolley High School, we are very lucky that you continue to work with our kids!

Testimonials

“Kelly is an incredibly positive influence on our school community. The guidance she provides to our ASB leaders and to her students in Leadership classes truly helps to make SWHS a welcoming and inclusive school for all students.”

Scott Conlan

SWHS Dean/Science Teacher

“There is nobody that supports SWHS like Kelly Hawkins. She supports all programs and extracurricular activities. She is the ultimate team mom for our students at SWHS. Kelly is a successful teacher, ASB advisor and yearbook advisor at SWHS. SWHS is a better place because of Kelly.”

Chris Spencer

SWHS Assistant Principal

“When I think about SWHS, “Miss Kelly” (as the students call her) comes to mind! Kelly pours her heart and soul into each and every student, whether it be supporting a student-led activity or just being a good listener for a student having a tough day. She supports all student events, giving smiles, taking pictures, and bringing a sense of positivity and school pride. She never complains about the many hours she works outside of school, and frequently champions student activities, saying “It’s better to have them here and safe than out making poor choices.” Her students know they can count on her for support in their activities or help with brainstorming projects. She always has a kind word, a smile, or a hug for anyone and everyone. Thank you, Miss Kelly, for everything you do for SWHS, its students, family, and community!!! We appreciate you!!”

Maggie Bagwell

SWHS CTE Director

Northwest Conference “Thank an Official” Campaign

04/17/2024 by kowen

Northwest Conference
“Thank an Official” Campaign

During the school year, the 16 member schools of the Northwest Conference are recognizing the importance of the umpires, referees and officials who manage our athletic contests. During each of our athletic seasons, the Northwest Conference has designated a week to show our appreciation for officials through the “Thank an Official” Campaign. Throughout the NWC, we are recognizing and celebrating our officials.

More than 5,000 officials serve Washington State high schools by doing their best to ensure all contests are fair, safe and fun.

Officials are required to register with the state officials’ association, complete annual rules meetings, and attend yearly training clinics. In addition, they spend countless hours in preparation for and traveling to contests.

High school officiating is an avocation, not a vocation. It is something done in addition to full-time employment. Officials work for the enjoyment of staying involved with the sports they love and for the opportunity to give back to kids, coaches and schools.

Officials are crucial in providing our student participants an opportunity to learn life lessons through education-based athletics. Enforcing the rules of the game fairly and consistently, and holding students and coaches to behavior expectations, are vitally important to successful high school events.

We ask all spectators, athletes, and coaches to be especially appreciative of the officials and the great job they do in serving our kids and programs. Without them there are no games!

More officials are needed in all sports and at all levels. For more information on how you can get involved, go to woa-officials.com for more information on becoming an official.

Character & Leadership Spotlight – Sedro-Woolley High School

04/14/2024 by kowen

CHARACTER & LEADERSHIP WITHIN SPORTS

The Northwest Conference loves celebrating our student-athletes in and outside of the classroom. Character Development and Leadership are a top priority in the conference, and we want to provide our communities with a simple and efficient way to see character, leadership and sportsmanship of our student-athletes through the traits that make them up.

The Northwest Conference is asking every school to select two of the 32 character traits to show recognition to two student-athletes within their programs for that trait. This will be going on throughout the summer and will include the follow words:

PASSION	APPRECIATION	PREPARATION	SELFLESSNESS	GRIT	ACCOUNTABILITY
SPORTSMANSHIP	HUMILITY	COMPETITIVENESS	HONESTY	CARING	CONFIDENCE
COMPOSURE	TOLERANCE	COURAGE	POSITIVE ATTITUDE	SERVICE	ENTHUSIASM
LEADERSHIP	DETERMINATION	CHARACTER	EFFORT	COMMITMENT	TEAMWORK
DESIRE	WORK ETHIC	COACHABLE	TRUST	FOCUS	GOOD JUDGEMENT
PERSEVERANCE			INTEGRITY

Character and Leadership play an important role in the development and success of our schools, and athletics show them in one of the most polarizing ways possible. Today we are recognizing two stellar student-athletes from Sedro-Woolley High School!

SEDRO-WOOLLEY HIGH SCHOOL

CARING

Maggie DeVries (Sedro-Woolley)

“There are so many character traits I can think of to write about Maggie DeVries but I chose Caring because Maggie absolutely exudes this trait every day when she walks into the gym. Maggie has always been an athlete that has a heart for her teammates. She is a great role model for our younger girls, including them in all that we do. Maggie always has a smile on her face, a “yes ma’am” for her coaches when being instructed and a “can do” attitude. She embraces the hard work and dedication required in our program, sets the example and does it all with a smile on her face.”

Shawna Tesarik

Teacher/Head Volleyball Coach

WORK ETHIC

Giovani Panfilo-Ortiz (Sedro-Woolley)

Where do I start? Gio is a kid who embodies exceptional work ethic. From the moment he stepped into our wrestling room this year, his dedication to our sport has been evident. He is one who makes sacrifices in his life to make our program better and other wrestlers around him better. Gio’s commitment to his team is unwavering, always pushing himself and his teammates to strive for greatness. Despite the demands of being a student athlete, he makes sure to stay committed in all aspects of life while continuing to improve in the sport of wrestling. His discipline, determination, and positive attitude serve as an inspiration to others, making him a true role model whose very essence epitomizes the essence of “Work Ethic”.

Brady Mast

Teacher/Head Boys Wrestling Coach

Character & Leadership Student Spotlight – Nooksack Valley High School

04/23/202403/19/2024 by kowen

CHARACTER & LEADERSHIP WITHIN SPORTS

PASSION	APPRECIATION	PREPARATION	SELFLESSNESS	GRIT	ACCOUNTABILITY
SPORTSMANSHIP	HUMILITY	COMPETITIVENESS	HONESTY	CARING	CONFIDENCE
COMPOSURE	TOLERANCE	COURAGE	POSITIVE ATTITUDE	SERVICE	ENTHUSIASM
LEADERSHIP	DETERMINATION	CHARACTER	EFFORT	COMMITMENT	TEAMWORK
DESIRE	WORK ETHIC	COACHABLE	TRUST	FOCUS	GOOD JUDGEMENT
PERSEVERANCE			INTEGRITY

NOOKSACK VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL

EFFORT

Evan Bravo (Nooksack Valley)

Evan Bravo embodies the essence of effort in every aspect of his life. On the soccer field, he gives 110%, showcasing a relentless work ethic that inspires his teammates. What sets Evan apart is his consistent dedication without a hint of complaint. Evan’s goal is clear: to outwork everyone around him. His determination extends into the classroom and beyond, reflecting his commitment to excellence in all endeavors. When faced with challenges, Evan rises to the occasion, pushing himself even harder. This resilience and grit not only define him as a player, but also as a leader by example. Evan’s leadership style is rooted in his actions, demonstrating that hard work and perseverance are the cornerstones of success. What truly distinguishes Evan is his ability to maintain this level of effort consistently, even in tasks that may seem mundane to others. He understands that greatness is achieved through unwavering dedication, and he applies this principle to every aspect of his life. Evan Bravo is not just a player who represents effort; he is the epitome of what it means to go above and beyond, leaving an enduring mark on those around him.

CHARACTER

Devin Coppinger (Nooksack Valley)

Devin Coppinger embodies the essence of quality character in every aspect of her life. Her integrity is unwavering, and she consistently demonstrates honesty, respect, and empathy in her interactions with others. Devin’s strong moral compass guides her actions, both on and off the court, and she always strives to do what is right, even when faced with difficult decisions. Her genuine kindness and compassion make her a trusted friend and role model to those around her, and her positive influence leaves a lasting impact on everyone she encounters. Devin’s commitment to excellence is matched only by her humility, as she never seeks recognition or praise for her accomplishments but instead focuses on lifting others up and making a positive difference on her team and in our community.

Character & Leadership Student Spotlight – Mount Baker

02/27/2024 by kowen

CHARACTER & LEADERSHIP WITHIN SPORTS

PASSION	APPRECIATION	PREPARATION	SELFLESSNESS	GRIT	ACCOUNTABILITY
SPORTSMANSHIP	HUMILITY	COMPETITIVENESS	HONESTY	CARING	CONFIDENCE
COMPOSURE	TOLERANCE	COURAGE	POSITIVE ATTITUDE	SERVICE	ENTHUSIASM
LEADERSHIP	DETERMINATION	CHARACTER	EFFORT	COMMITMENT	TEAMWORK
DESIRE	WORK ETHIC	COACHABLE	TRUST	FOCUS	GOOD JUDGEMENT
PERSEVERANCE			INTEGRITY

MOUNT BAKER HIGH SCHOOL

SERVICE

Ella Maloley (Mount Baker)

“Ella Maloley is a dynamic individual who is a perfect example of what a leader and an athlete should be. As the captain of the Mount Baker Cheer Squad and Softball team. She leads by example on the field, inspiring her teammates with her skills, dedication, and unwavering determination. She is also willing to help the younger students to help them be part of the Mount Baker community. When not playing softball or cheerleading, Ella is equally impressive, serving as the Social Media representative with the Mount Baker ASB, where she advocates for her peers and fosters a positive school environment. She is able to perfectly balance academic excellence, athleticism, and leadership responsibilities. Ella is one of the best role models for her peers, showcasing the power of passion and perseverance in achieving success both on and off the field.”

Paul Shpak, ASB Advisor

ENTHUSIASM

Brad Bruland (Mount Baker)

“When it comes to enthusiasm, you would be hard-pressed to find a better example on the field or in the classroom than Mount Baker junior Brady Bruland. Day after day, season after season, Brady shows a consistent work ethic and desire for improvement combined with a remarkable sense of enjoyment. He will outwork nearly everyone and do it with a smile on his face. This is equally on display whether he is in the middle of a game-winning drive or working through the most routine drills during practice. It shows both when he is the centerpiece of a team and when he plays more of a complimentary role. He believes there is always room to get better as an individual and as a group. He is a reliable source of energy for those around him. Brady’s enthusiasm and positivity are infectious on the gridiron, basketball court, classroom, and in greater Mount baker community.”

McHenry Pattison, Coach

Character & Leadership Student Spotlight – Meridian High School

02/20/202402/20/2024 by kowen

CHARACTER & LEADERSHIP WITHIN SPORTS

PASSION	APPRECIATION	PREPARATION	SELFLESSNESS	GRIT	ACCOUNTABILITY
SPORTSMANSHIP	HUMILITY	COMPETITIVENESS	HONESTY	CARING	CONFIDENCE
COMPOSURE	TOLERANCE	COURAGE	POSITIVE ATTITUDE	SERVICE	ENTHUSIASM
LEADERSHIP	DETERMINATION	CHARACTER	EFFORT	COMMITMENT	TEAMWORK
DESIRE	WORK ETHIC	COACHABLE	TRUST	FOCUS	GOOD JUDGEMENT
PERSEVERANCE			INTEGRITY

MERIDIAN HIGH SCHOOL

POSITIVE ATTITUDE

Ian Forbes (Meridian)

His baseball Coach Steve Slesk had this to say about Ian:

“Ian Forbes is a young man with great character and resolve. On the baseball diamond he can be counted on to give everything he has for the team first and himself second. He is a very unselfish player and a great teammate. He is a great baseball player but even a better young man. On or off the field he is a great leader. He does not only lead by words but by action. He is the real deal.”

COURAGE

Sydney TenKley (Meridian)

Her softball coach Meghan Monaghan had this to say about Sydney:

“Sydney is a Junior softball player at Meridian and a team Captain. She is a natural leader. She was injured her sophomore year and wasn’t able to play most of the season. She came to every practice and every game and continued to help her team mates and coaches in different ways. She has put a lot of time in the off season and has worked hard to get herself back into softball shape. She represents her team well on and off the field.”

Mountaineers Person of Distinction – Cheryl Kirkley

02/12/2024 by kowen

NORTHWEST CONFERENCE – PERSON OF DISTINCTION AWARD

Mount Baker Athletics

Person of Distinction – Cheryl Kirkley

Person of Distinction: Cheryl Kirkley, Mount Baker

“Cheryl Kirkley is a very active employee here at the Mount Baker campus. In the fall you can find Cheryl in a ticket booth during the football season, and a gym manager for volleyball and basketball. She is always willing to help the Mount Baker sports programs. Cheryl is always willing to step in at a moment’s notice. Cheryl not only makes time to help at games, she is also a high impact paraeducator and works wonders with the kids. She really does make a difference. Cheryl is always willing to help and contribute here on campus as well as her community. Cheryl is known for her baking skills with cinnamon rolls being the favorite. Cheryl is very giving and generous and we are very fortunate to have her on our campus.”

Mickie Perez ASB/Athletics Secretary

“Cheryl Kirkley has been a dedicated member of the Mount Baker Community since 2008. She started her Mount Baker journey at Harmony Elementary but eventually made her way to the JH/HS campus. Cheryl made a positive impact as soon as she arrived. As a paraeducator, Cheryl has constantly demonstrated care and concern for our entire student population. She truly has a heart of service and always puts the needs of others, both staff and students alike, above her own. Mount Baker staff are extremely appreciative of Cheryl, especially when she blesses us with her world-renowned Cinnamon Rolls. Cheryl loves the Mount Baker community and supporting students in all of their extracurricular endeavors. She proudly works as the event manager for various sports including football, volleyball, wrestling, and basketball. Without her dedication, our facilities and playing fields would not be properly prepared to host sporting events. Cheryl is an invaluable member of this community and should be cherished by all.”

Derek Johnson, Teacher/Coach

“If I ever need anything at any time, Cheryl is at the top of my list. She loves helping students and staff and she loves Mount Baker. Cheryl is the total package!”

Ron Lepper, Teacher/Coach/AD

Northwest Conference “Thank an Official” Campaign

02/07/202402/07/2024 by kowen

Northwest Conference
“Thank an Official” Campaign

More than 5,000 officials serve Washington State high schools by doing their best to ensure all contests are fair, safe and fun.

We ask all spectators, athletes, and coaches to be especially appreciative of the officials and the great job they do in serving our kids and programs. Without them there are no games!

More officials are needed in all sports and at all levels. For more information on how you can get involved, go to woa-officials.com for more information on becoming an official.

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Lions Person of Distinction – Kent Victor

01/12/2024 by kowen

NORTHWEST CONFERENCE – PERSON OF DISTINCTION AWARD

Lions Athletics

Person of Distinction – Victor Kent

“Kent Victor has had a significant, positive impact on Lynden High School for decades. His positive energy and quick wittedness is refreshing to everyone he interacts with on a daily basis. He has influenced our Math and CTE departments as well as poured into kids on the Basketball, Baseball and Football Fields. He’s literally run around the world twice in his daily jogging regime and what a great example for peers and kids to see someone so diligent, hardworking, and enthusiastic about everything he does. He’s someone I go to for mentorship and advice on a daily basis and consider it an honor to call him a peer. Kent has had a profound impact on every student, teacher, player, and coach that he’s interacted with. Lynden is Blessed to have Kent Victor walking our halls. Thanks for serving Lynden High School and its staff/students!”

Blake VanDalen

Teacher / Head Football & Assistant Basketball Coach LHS

“Kent Victor is deserving of all honors bestowed upon him as he ends his distinguished teaching career. He is a man of integrity and principals who holds to his core values under all circumstances. He is a tireless worker for his students and his players. He has always put the kids first as he prepared for class or practice. Kent has always been a great teacher in the classroom and coach on the field or court. It has been an honor to work with him these past 32 years.”

Ed Bomber

Teacher / Head Fastpitch & Assistant Football Coach LHS

“Kent Victor was born to coach. His love of sports, instruction, competing and helping young people grow have all come together in a distinguished career. Whether it has been middle school or high school, assistant coach or head coach, Kent brings the same passion and intensity. For the past nineteen years he has been a key assistant boys basketball coach at Lynden High School. He has been instrumental in developing our defensive system and teaching toughness. Kent is demanding, but never demeaning. Players appreciate him because they know that he wants their best. Our Lynden varsity basketball team has led the NWC in scoring defense for five of the past six seasons and that is due to Kent and the efforts of our players. Kent has coached more than 75 seasons of basketball, football, and baseball as both a head coach and an assistant coach for over forty years. Thousands of student athletes have benefited from his time and effort and are better people for it.”

Brian Roper

Teacher / Head Basketball Coach LHS

Character & Leadership Student Spotlight – Lynden High School

01/03/2024 by kowen

CHARACTER & LEADERSHIP WITHIN SPORTS

PASSION	APPRECIATION	PREPARATION	SELFLESSNESS	GRIT	ACCOUNTABILITY
SPORTSMANSHIP	HUMILITY	COMPETITIVENESS	HONESTY	CARING	CONFIDENCE
COMPOSURE	TOLERANCE	COURAGE	POSITIVE ATTITUDE	SERVICE	ENTHUSIASM
LEADERSHIP	DETERMINATION	CHARACTER	EFFORT	COMMITMENT	TEAMWORK
DESIRE	WORK ETHIC	COACHABLE	TRUST	FOCUS	GOOD JUDGEMENT
PERSEVERANCE			INTEGRITY

LYNDEN HIGH SCHOOL

CONFIDENCE

Belen Lopez (Lynden)

Belen is an amazing person and athlete. For one, she always seems to approach a situation with a smile on her face and joy in her heart. She came to the track and field program as a junior who had never competed in track and field before. Belen took on this new challenge head on with a level of confidence that was inspiring. She became a student of her events and continued to improve as the season progressed. We celebrated Belen as she qualified and competed at the state meet in her first season.

Head Track Coach

Layne Hutchins

CARING

Anthony Canales (Lynden)

Anthony Canales is a terrific high school basketball player. He is the two-time 2A State Tournament MVP and one of the best to ever put on the Lynden Basketball uniform. People who follow basketball in this area know who Anthony is, but probably don’t see what a kind and caring teammate he is. Our players and coaches see it daily.

Anthony is a big encourager of teammates. If a player makes a great play, Anthony is often more excited than the guy who made the play. If a teammate is down, Anthony has eyes to see it and comes along side that teammate in support. He is also a caring son and brother. Family means a lot to Anthony.

One example of Anthony’s care and concern for others is exemplified by his work at our youth camp. Anthony is a kid favorite at camp because he brings enthusiasm like no other. He will regularly be doing defensive slides, along with the kids and leading them in chants and cheers. He is not “too cool” to get a little crazy with a 4^th grader who can barely dribble the basketball.

Anthony loves basketball, but he knows that it is far greater to be a young man who cares for his family, friends, teammates, and classmates.

Head Boys Basketball Coach

Brian Roper