May 18, 2026

The Canyon Athletic Department held its Sixth Annual Athletic Awards Ceremony tonight. Athletic Director, Nate Harrison, opened the evening thanking the efforts of the Canyon Athletic Organization and the Canyon High School Foundation for their contributions to Canyon Athletics. Principal Brent McKee presented an overview of the 2025-26 achievements by our programs.  Canyon teams won 11 league championships and had 1 CIF Champion this year.  The Fall season began strong with Girls Flag Football, Girls Golf, Girls Tennis, and Boys Water Polo all winning league titles with six teams qualifying for CIF.  The Winter season saw Girls Soccer, Boys Soccer and Girls Wrestling earning league titles.  All 8 teams qualified for CIF, with Boys Basketball advancing to the Quarter Finals, Boys Soccer and Girls Basketball making it to the Semi Finals and qualifying for the State playoffs.  Girls Wrestler, Tessa Fortenbaugh, finished 2nd in CIF and completed in the State Championships.  Canyon Cheer won the CIF-SS Division 1 Championship!

Our CIF-SS Division 1 Cheer Champions are Chloe Alexei, Lili Biberstein, Evelyn Deller, Brooklyn Duterte, Aidynn Enriquez, Noelle Horton, Addison Hunter, Ryann Lewis, Briana Lindsey, Juliet Lolli, Camila Martinez-Canseco, Sydney Pino, Elizabeth Robinson, Abigail Smith, Yeva Syroid, Sydney Troge, Isabella Trout, Lilly Williams, Alina Williams, Alina Wu, and Avery Yost! 

The Spring season say Boys Golf, Girls Swim, Girls Track and Boys Volleyball all win league titles.  All twelve teams competed in CIF, with Beach Volleyball making to the Semi Finals.

The Athletic Department recognized 19 athletes who committed to play at the college level, and tonight three additional signees we recognized.

Braden Earle – Grand Canyon University

Lacrosse

Braden Earle is a two-year varsity attacker for the Canyon High School Boys Lacrosse team.  Braden will be attending Grand Canyon University on an academic scholarship and will be majoring in Sports and Entertainment Management.  Braden helped lead Canyon into the playoffs this year. Braden has also excelled in the classroom and has been a Scholar Athlete during his time at Canyon.  Braden’s favorite memory at Canyon was the bus rides with his teammates after games, joking around, listening to music, and making memories together during the season.  Braden would like to give a special thanks to his family for always supporting him through school, sports, and everything along the way. He also wants to thank his coaches, teammates, and friends for making high school memorable.

 

Elizabeth Stewart – Point Loma Nazarene University

Dance

Elizabeth Stewart is a two-year varsity dancer for the Canyon High School Song Team. She will be dancing at Point Loma Nazarene University, where she will be studying Dietetics and Health Sciences.  Elizabeth is an outstanding dancer who was part of the team that won the NDA National Championship and finished as a UDA finalist.  Elizabeth is also excellent in the classroom where she was a Scholar Athlete.  Elizabeth’s favorite memory was cheering at Friday night lights.  Elizabeth’s  parents are here with her today and she would like to thank them for everything they have done for her and for supporting her throughout challenges and successes.

 

Sophia Walker – Chapman University

Cheer

Sophia Walker has been a three-year varsity dancer on our Song Team.  Sophia will be attending Chapman University on an academic scholarship and will be on the pre-med track majoring in Biology.  Sophia is an excellent dancer who was chosen as the most dedicated dancer in 2023 and 2026, received the Coaches Award in 2026, and was part of the team that won the 2024 NDA National Championship.  In addition to her athletic accomplishments, Sophia is also a stellar student who has been recognized as Top of The Tribe and Scholar Athlete all 4 years.  Sophia’s favorite memory was getting to cheer at football games with her best friends and making memories she will never forget.   Sophia’s mom and Dad are here with her today.  She wants to thank them for  all of their support throughout her whole high school journey and to tell them none of it would have been possible without them both, and that she will always be grateful for everything they have done for her. Sophia would also like to thank her coaches for always pushing her to be the best she can and for always believing in her, and to let them know that they have had a huge impact on her dance journey and that she is so thankful for everything they have taught her. Lastly she would like to thank her friends for being there for her and supporting her through everything and to let them know that the  memories and friendships they have made together are truly so special to her, and will stay with her wherever she goes.

Our 2025-26 Collegiate Signees

 

 

Scholar Athletes

The first award of the evening was the Scholar Athlete of the Year award.  This award is given for a combination of outstanding athletic success and exceptional academic results.

Scholar Athlete – Male

Gavin Shea

Gavin’s award was presented by Boys Water Polo Head Coach, Celena Photopolus.  Photopolus spoke of Gavin’s many accomplishments in sports and academics.  Shea is a multi-sport athlete, three-year varsity water polo player, water polo team captain, led his team to its first ever CIF Finals appearance and two division 2 CIF appearances.  He was named First Team All League in 2025, and All CIF honorable mention in 2025.  Shea was a four-year varsity swimmer and Team MVP and qualified for CIF.  Beyond his athletic abilities, Gavin served our campus as an Ambassador, ASB Commissioner of Justice for two years, Athletic Council member and a member of NHS for three years.  Gavin is also plays violin and viola in orchestra, is a member of the National League of Young Men, has traveled to Honduras as a humanitarian, volunteered in medical practices as he would like to pursue medicine as a career.  Gavin was also on the Top of the Tribe all four year, took 6 honors and 10 AP classes, is a AP Scholar with Distinction, was a Scholar Athlete all four years and is graduating with a 4.8 GPA.  Photopolus said of Gavin “Gavin is one of the best young men I know with a strong moral compass and a drive to be the best. He is highly cerebral and has consistently been able to have mature conversations with wisdom beyond his years. He has a deep passion for success and I am looking forward to seeing what the future holds for him.

Scholar Athlete – Female

Ellie Nguyen

Ellie’s award was presented by Girls Volleyball Head Coach, Matt Silva.  Ellie was also named the Orange County Athletic Directors Association Student Athlete with Character.  Silva had this to say about Ellie:

“It is a true honor to stand before you today to recognize an extraordinary student-athlete — someone who represents not only athletic excellence, but also integrity, leadership, and perseverance . Being named an Athlete of Character is one of the highest compliments a person can receive. Character is revealed through respect for teammates and opponents, through humility in victory, and grace in defeat. It is shown in discipline, accountability, and the willingness to lead by example. This athlete consistently demonstrates all of these qualities, inspiring everyone around them to be better both on and off the field. At the same time, earning recognition as a Scholar Athlete speaks to another remarkable level of dedication. Balancing the demands of academics and athletics is no easy task. It requires sacrifice, time management, focus, and determination. Yet this athlete has excelled in the classroom while continuing to compete at a high level — proving that commitment to education is just as important as commitment to sport. What makes this achievement especially meaningful is that these honors are being awarded to the same individual. That combination is rare. It reflects someone who understands that true greatness comes from developing the mind, the body, and the heart together. Ellie , your hard work, resilience, and positive example have left a lasting impact on your teammates, coaches, teachers, and community. You have shown younger athletes what it means to compete with passion while carrying yourself with dignity and respect. As you continue forward, remember that the lessons you have learned through sports and academics — leadership, perseverance, teamwork, and character — will guide you far beyond any game or classroom.

Congratulations on being recognized as both Athlete of Character and Scholar Athlete. This honor is well deserved, and we are incredibly proud of you.”

CIF Scholar Athlete – Male

Tommy Boyle

Tommy’s award was presented by Boys Cross Country Head Coach, Brian Brierly.  Brierly said of Tommy:

“Tonight we are here to recognize Tommy Boyle as the Canyon CIF Boys Academic Athlete of the Year.  This award is naturally given to an athlete that is exceptional in the classroom, but also has a tremendous impact on the Varsity level of your team. Tommy fits the bill on both accounts.  He has been a constant force in the classroom, taking 12 AP classes (9 alone in Junior and Senior years!) and numerous Honors classes, graduating with a 4.9+ GPA. Beyond his coursework, Tommy has developed into a phenomenal runner, posting best times of 15:28 for 3 miles in Cross Country, and 4:35 for 1600 and 2:03 for 800. He was one of our top runners for the past two years, helping guide the team to a runner up finish in league for Cross Country and Contributing to our runner up finish in Track. He was the heart and soul of our Cross Country team this year, teaching and leading poise and wisdom.  

Next year Tommy will be taking his talents to Westwood, where he will be attending UCLA and looking to continue competing with their Running and Triathlon Club Teams.

CIF Scholar Athlete – Female

Rylie Piche

Rylie’s award was presented by Girls Soccer Head Coach, Billy Higuera.  Higuera said of Rylie, “

Tonight, I have the honor of recognizing a student-athlete who truly represents what it means to excel both on the field and in the classroom—Ryley Piche.

Being a scholar-athlete requires discipline, commitment, maturity, and consistency. It means balancing academics, athletics, leadership responsibilities, and everyday life while continuing to perform at a high level in all areas. Ryley has done exactly that throughout her time at Canyon High School.

As a two year captain of our girls soccer team, Ryley was a steady and trusted leader for our program. She led by example every single day through her work ethic, positivity, and commitment to the team. Her teammates respected her because they knew how much she cared—not only about winning, but about the people around her and the culture of our program.

On the field, Ryley played a huge role in our success this season. As one of our defenders, she finished with 1 goal and 8 assists, an impressive accomplishment from the back line. She took nearly all of our free kicks and corner kicks, consistently creating scoring opportunities and helping control the flow of the game with her composure and vision. Her ability to organize defensively while also contributing offensively made her one of the most important players on our team.

Her outstanding season earned her First Team All-Crestview League honors, along with our Team Defensive MVP Award and the Players’ Award—an honor that speaks volumes because it comes directly from the respect and appreciation of her teammates.”

The Greg Jones Scholarship Award

The Greg Jones Scholarship Award is a memorial scholarship award sponsored by Mr. Gary Jones and his wife Anne, in memory of his son Greg Jones. It is awarded to a male and female student who have maximized their potential as an athlete and made a major contribution to their team as a result of their development. Including tonight’s recipients Mr. & Mrs. Jones along with the Canyon Athletics department have sponsored 56 scholarships totaling over $25,000 in student aid.

Kellen Rommelfanger

Kellen’s award was presented by Coach Phil Hughes. Kellen Rommelfanger has been a model of what it means to be a Canyon High School athlete. He has been a part of the Canyon Football program for the entire 4 years at Canyon High School and has excelled during his time helping to build on the standard that has been set during the school’s 53 years. As a freshman he was an important piece of the offense as the backup to our most important receiver. His dedication to learning the offense and learning from the older players allowed him to be an important piece of the offense from the moment he stepped on campus. From there, he dedicated himself to becoming the best receiver he can be. He consistently worked with his coaches to understand and become an expert in both the physical and mental sides of the game. This allowed him to consistently out play other players who were bigger, faster and stronger than him. All of this led to Kellen being, statistically, one of the best receivers in Canyon history. He finished his high school career with multiple top-10 games in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns, along with top-10 seasons in all three categories. He also had Top 5 Career numbers in Touchdowns, Receiving yards and being the all time leader in Receptions. Through all of this hard work, Kellen has earned the privilege to play football at the next level at a great school in George Fox. Kellen is a great example to all future Canyon athletes on what can be done when you dedicate yourself and maximize your talent through hard work to become the best version of yourself.

Alyvia Jeha

Alyvia’s award was presented by head wrestling coach, Davis Barr. Barr said:

“Tonight, I have the honor of recognizing an athlete who truly embodies what the Greg Jones Award stands for grit, growth, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to becoming better every single day. Alyvia Jeha is the definition of hard work. Over the past four years, I have had the privilege of watching Alyvia transform not just as a wrestler, but as a person. And what stands out the most isn’t just where she is today, but the journey she took to get here. Because nothing has been handed to her. Every bit of success she’s achieved has been earned through long practices, tough matches, setbacks, and the decision to keep showing up and keep pushing forward. And the results speak for themselves. She is a 3-time Masters qualifier, a 3-time CIF placer, and a 2-time League Champion. But what makes those accomplishments so special is the consistency behind them. Year after year, Alyvia has improved. Year after year, she has raised her standard. And year after year, she has proven that growth comes from effort, discipline, and belief in the process. She has also been a 4-year captain of this program and that says everything about who she is. Alyvia doesn’t just lead, she invests. She is constantly looking for ways to make herself better, and just as importantly, she is always looking for ways to make her teammates better. Whether it’s pushing the pace in practice, offering encouragement, or holding others accountable, she leads with purpose. She goes above and beyond not because she has to, but because that’s who she is. That mindset, that work ethic, and that commitment to something bigger than yourself, that’s what this award is all about. You’ve shown everyone what it means to earn success and more importantly, how to bring others along with you.

Congratulations, Alyvia Jeha, recipient of the Greg Jones Award.”

Ironman Award

Harrison then recognized this year’s Ironman Award recipients.  This patch goes to student-athletes who participate in three or more varsity sports during one school year.

Anika Banez – Cross Country, Tennis and Track

Aidynn Enriquez – Cheer, Stunt and Track

Ella Feldhaus – Flag Football, Soccer and Lacrosse

Caroline Hicks – Flag Football, Soccer andTrack

Noelle Horton – Flag Football, Cheer and  Stunt

Ariel Lantz-Loza – Flag Football, Song and Track

Noah McClary – Football, Soccer, and Track

Sophia Patsios – Flag Football, Soccer and Track

Sophie Punsalang – Flag Football, Soccer and Track

We are very proud of these incredible athletes.

Canyon Song Performance

 

Sportsmanship and Leadership Award

Layla Vanasopha

Layla’s award was presented by Coach Jess Luchansky.  “Tonight, it is truly an honor and a blessing for me to recognize an exceptional student-athlete whose dedication, leadership, and character embody everything this award represents. Layla has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to balance academic excellence, athletic achievement, leadership, and service to others, all while maintaining humility, compassion, and determination. With an impressive 4.6 GPA and consistent Honor Roll recognition at Canyon High School, she has shown that success in the classroom is just as important as success in competition. But what makes her truly remarkable is that her accomplishments extend far beyond academics. As the Founder and President of the Babysitters Club, she created an organization focused on helping families in the community while teaching fellow students responsibility and leadership. She has also dedicated countless hours coaching and mentoring younger athletes through volleyball programs with the City of Anaheim, helping children build confidence, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Athletically, Layla has completed on the Varsity level in water polo and swim, while also competing in elite club water polo. Her awards speak for themselves with including JV Water Polo MVP, Varsity Best Defense Award, and All-League recognition, and All CIF. Yet anyone who knows her understands that her true impact cannot be measured by awards alone. She leads by example. Whether volunteering in the community, supporting mental health awareness for student-athletes, helping children at camps and events, or balancing the intense demands of academics and athletics, she consistently demonstrates maturity, resilience, and compassion far beyond her years. What stands out most is not simply how much she has accomplished, but the way she carries herself while doing it with such grace, integrity, kindness, and an unwavering work ethic. She represents the very best of what it means to be both a leader and an athlete.

Please join me in congratulating this year’s Sportsmanship Leadership Award recipient Layla Vanasopha.”

Landon Wade

Landon’s award was presented by Coach Phil Hughes.  “Landon Wade was a pleasure to coach and was an example of what coaches look for in a leader on and off of the field in their program. He was a 3 year captain and consistently pushed his teammates to be the best versions of themselves in all aspects of the program. On the field he was one of the first guys in every drill wanting to lead the way in learning how to play football and becoming proficient at football. He became a part of a group where he consistently pushed the other members to make sure they attended their off season training they did together. In the Weight room he rarely missed a day and pushed himself and those around him to prepare their bodies for the long football season. In the classroom, he held himself and his teammates and friends to a high standard of being solid students. Through his leadership, especially going into his senior year, he helped to lead a defense from one of the worst in the county, statistically, to a defense that improved to be in the top half of the county. He finished this year with 72 tackles, 3.5 TFLs, 1 sack, 1 Fumble Recovery and an Interception. He also was an important piece on offense doing the hard and dirty work of playing fullback. This meant he did a lot of the dirty work without getting any outside recognition. He did so quietly and happily. Through his hard work he has earned the privilege to play college football at George Fox. Landon is one of those guys who any coach would love to build their team around and we are looking forward to watching him continue to be a leader at the next level.”

Blake Hartfelder

Blake was also awarded the OCADA Athlete with Character Award.  Blake’s Sportsmanship Leadership Award was presented by Coach Billy Higuera.  Higuera had this to say about Blake. “Tonight, I have the privilege of recognizing someone who truly represents everything you hope for in a student-athlete and leader—Blake Hartfelder. There are certain athletes who leave a lasting impact on a program, not just because of what they accomplish statistically, but because of the energy, leadership, and pride they bring every single day. Blake is one of those rare individuals. As captain of our boys soccer team, Blake led in every possible way. He led by example through his work ethic, consistency, and competitiveness, but he also led vocally by holding teammates accountable, bringing energy to difficult moments, and helping unite the group throughout the season. He understood what it meant to represent Canyon High School, and nobody took more pride in wearing Canyon across their chest than Blake. On the field, Blake put together an outstanding season. He finished with 11 goals and 9 assists, directly contributing to 20 goals for our team while constantly creating opportunities for the players around him. His ability to impact games offensively earned him Offensive Player of the Year honors in the Crestview League, along with being named our team Offensive MVP. He was also recognized as All-CIF and earned Second Team All-Orange County honors—well-deserved recognition for one of the top attacking players in the area. But what makes Blake’s season even more meaningful is the impact he had on the success of our entire program. This year, Blake helped lead Canyon soccer break through the CIF quarterfinal barrier and advancing further than Canyon had in a long time. He also helped lead us into the CIF Regional Tournament, another major milestone for our program. In the biggest moments of the season, Blake embraced the pressure and elevated the people around him. And what I personally admire most about Blake is how deeply he cares about this school and this community. Blake truly lives and breathes Canyon High School. As ASB President, he has represented this campus with incredible pride and energy, and he has been a positive example for students both on and off the field. He understands leadership is about service, relationships, and leaving things better than you found them—and he has absolutely done that here at Canyon. As a coach, you hope to have players who care deeply about the program. You hope to have leaders who can bring people together. And every once in a while, you get someone who becomes the heartbeat of the team. Blake was that for us this season. Blake, thank you for everything you have given to Canyon soccer and Canyon High School. Your leadership and passion will be remembered here for a very long time.

Congratulations.”

Athletic Council

The 2025-26 Athletic Council members were recognized. Junior members received their Athletic Council patches and the Senior members were presented with their graduation stoles. ASB Athletic Commissioner, Caroline Hicks presented these awards with Nate Harrison. 

 

Bill Hall Award

The Bill Hall Award was created by OUSD to honor Mr. Bill Hall after his death in a plane crash back in the late 1970’s. The ideal candidate is a graduating senior who excelled in athletics not only as a result of their talent, but also, their work ethic, determination, and ability to be coached.

Ella Feldhaus

Ella’s award was presented by Flag Football Head Coach, Rebekah Anderson.  “Ella has been a stellar 3-sport varsity athlete, but I will be focusing on her incredible contributions specifically in flag football.  Ella has been a force on the field, leading her team to back-to-back seasons as undefeated league champions and qualifying us for Division 1 playoffs. Over the past two seasons alone, her team’s record is an incredible 38 wins and just 5 losses. Her talent is undeniable. She wasn’t only our Team MVP for the past two seasons, she was also recognized by our league, earning the Freeway League MVP as a junior, and the Crestview League MVP as a senior.  She’s been an all-CIF 1st team player as well as being selected as an Orange County All-star. Looking at her statistics, you will understand the impact of her contributions on both offense and defense. Offensively, she completed 427 passes for 4,663 yards and threw 58 touchdowns, while also rushing for 700 yards and 9 touchdowns, totaling 67 touchdowns overall. Defensively, she was a critical safety, recording 12 interceptions, 17 pass deflections, and 47 flag pulls.  Ella was a three-year varsity starter and captain; she was a strong leader on and off the field and well-respected by her teammates and coaches.  But what truly sets Ella apart, and why she is the perfect recipient for the Bill Hall Award, is her character. She plays with determination, with hunger, and with a drive to get better, not just for herself, but for the team to succeed. What stands out most is her selflessness. As a quarterback, it’s rare to find someone who prioritizes her teammate over her own frustration. Typically, a quarterback gets frustrated when a perfect pass is dropped. Not Ella. She would be the first one to run over, take the blame, and tell her teammate, “That’s my bad,” even when we all knew it wasn’t. Ella has been a leader since her sophomore year, leading with kindness, accountability, and discipline. Leaders like her—the ones who carry the weight and work without needing recognition—are rare. Ella Feldhaus, for your exceptional talent, work ethic, and selfless determination, it is my honor to present you with the Bill Hall Award.”

Camden Goetz

Camden’s award was presented by Baseball Head Coach, Jason Smith.

“Tonight we gather to honor an extraordinary individual, a graduating senior who exemplifies the essence of all around excellence in character.  While this award does factor in their athletic accomplishments, it is not simply about celebrating talent, but recognizing what I consider even more important, leadership, work ethic, determination, coachability and character.  I am so honored to present this award to someone who has shown us all what it truly means to achieve greatness on and off the field and embodies what it really means to be a true champion.  From the beginning, it was clear that Camden understood that talent is just the starting point, and only one aspect of what it takes if you want to be a champion.  He recognized that to excel, he would have to step up, put in the hard work, be committed to the process and willing to make sacrifices…which I saw him doing as an 8th grader.   Being a Varsity starter as a freshman on a team that won a CIF and State title, Cam was never afraid of the moment (semi final catch, CIF championship 2RBI single), Cam met every challenge head on and overcame each obstacle with unwavering resolve, perseverance, and maturity.  He looked at every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow and become a better person and athlete.  This attitude is a true testament to his character and commitment to our program.   Some of Camden’s accomplishments include:  

-4 year Varsity starter 

-113 GP;  102 Hits ; 2 Errors in 200 Total Chances; 15 Playoff Games and counting 

-3.6 GPA 

-Top of the Tribe   

-Athletic Counsel 

-Team Award: Rookie of the Year; Gold Glove 3x 

-North Hills/Freeway All-League 

-North Hills League Champions 

-CIF Champion 

-State Champion 

-Santa Ana Baseball Commit 

Beyond Camden’s athletic achievements, he has been an inspiration and role model to his peers. Cam’s positive, friendly, and outgoing attitude, humility and strong sense of teamwork has made him a beloved figure with his teammates and coaching staff.   Camden has lead by example, showing that true success comes from a combination of hard work, a willingness to learn and an unbreakable determination to be the best he can be in all that he does. Camden’s willingness to embrace our programs core values has not only made him a standout player but has elevated the entire team, and helping to foster a culture and expectation of continuous improvement and excellence.  A great teammate, role model, and elite competitor, whose athletic achievements were elevated because of his hard work, determination, leadership, and character. His story is a powerful reminder that greatness is achieved not just through what we were gifted with, but through what we are willing to work for every day.   There is no one more deserving of this award, and I am extremely proud of your growth not just as a baseball player but more importantly as a person.  I don’t say this lightly when I say, I am honored to have coached you the last 4 years.  Camden will be one of the all-time guys for me…and I’m going to miss having him around everyday.   I am excited about the opportunities that are awaiting you. You are a man of great character and I know that you are destined for greatness.  Please join me in honoring this years Bill Hall Recipient, Camden Goetz.”

Rylan Avellan

Rylan’s award was presented by Boys Lacrosse Head Coach, Neil Trusso. “Tonight I want to celebrate Rylan. He is more than a great lacrosse player. He is a role model and a teammate who led with heart, grit, and humility every single day. Yah wins and loses are important, but the true mark of a leader is found in the quiet moments, helping the younger players (goalies and Face off players), encouraging teammates after tough losses, pulling us coaches aside to talk about the team health and culture, and putting the team before personal recognition. Rylan took the initiative to step back and see where he could help the team, not just himself. He started as our goalie, then when we had injuries he volunteered to take the Face offs, played defense, and in one game scored 3 goals on offense. He has played everywhere for us. He had the confidence to help the team wherever he was needed.  Our younger players will remember the example he set, coaches will remember the trust and honesty he brought every day, and his teammates will remember the brotherhood he helped build.  Success in life will come his way not just because of talent, but because of character. The kind of character that lifts others up, stays loyal through adversity, and never forgets the value of teamwork. We are proud of the player he became, but even more proud of the man he is becoming. Congratulations, and thank you for leaving this program stronger than you found it.”

Athlete of the Year

Aidan Dunn

Aidan’s award was presented by Boys Volleyball Head Coach, Matt Silva. “Tonight, we gather to celebrate  determination and the spirit of competition as we honor our Athlete of the Year. This award is not simply about victories, statistics, or trophies. It is about commitment, leadership, resilience, and the ability to inspire others both on and off the court.  Our Athlete of the Year has shown us what it means to pursue greatness with discipline and humility. Through early mornings, long practices, setbacks, and triumphs, Aiden Dunn has consistently represented the very best of athletic character. his hard work has earned respect from teammates, coaches, competitors, and our entire community. Great athletes understand that success is never achieved alone. It comes from teamwork, encouragement, sacrifice, and the support of family and friends.  Aiden has demonstrated grace in victory and strength in adversity. Those qualities will carry him far beyond sports and into every future challenge and opportunity. On behalf of everyone here tonight, congratulations on being named Athlete of the Year. We are proud of your accomplishments, grateful for your leadership, and excited to see all that you will continue to achieve.”

Tessa Fortenbaugh

Tessa’s award was presented by Wrestling Head Coach, Davis Barr. “Tonight, it is truly an honor to stand here and recognize an athlete who represents everything we at Canyon hope for in a program, a team, and a person. Tessa Fortenbaugh is not just the Female Athlete of the Year—she is the standard. When you look at her accomplishments on paper, they are nothing short of extraordinary. She is a 3-time state qualifier, a 3-time Masters qualifier, a 3-time CIF finalist, a CIF Champion, She’s been a 3-time league finalist and a 2-time league champion. She’s earned All-Orange County honors three times, is a freestyle state placer, a Fargo qualifier, and has been named Team MVP all four years of her high school career. On top of that, she’s a 4-time scholar athlete. And soon, she will continue her wrestling journey at Western Colorado University. But the truth is those accolades, as incredible as they are, still don’t fully capture who Tessa is. Because Tessa’s impact goes far beyond wins and losses. She has been a 4-year captain of our program, and in that role, she has defined what leadership truly looks like. Not by words, but by actions. By showing up every single day with purpose. By pushing herself when no one is watching. By lifting up her teammates when they need it most. Really the bottom line is that she cares deeply. About her team, her coaches, her parents, her schooling. About doing things the right way. Tessa is the kind of athlete every coach hopes to have just at least once in their career. The kind of leader who builds culture, who sets expectations, and who leaves a program better than they found it. Her drive for success is unmatched but what makes it special is that it’s never just about her. It’s about the team. It’s about the standard. It’s about leaving a legacy. And she has done exactly that. Tessa, it has been one of the greatest privileges of my life to be your coach these past four years. You have made me a better coach. You have made this program better. And you have set a bar that will challenge every athlete who comes after you. While your journey at Canyon has come to an end, I have no doubt that you are about to do this all over again in Colorado. So tonight, don’t just celebrate your achievements, celebrate who you are.

A champion. A leader. A teammate.  And truly, one of a kind. Congratulations, Tessa Fortenbaugh.”

Caroline Hicks

Caroline’s award was presented by Girls Soccer Head Coach, Billy Higuera. “It is truly an honor to present this year’s Female Athlete of the Year Award to someone who has left an incredible mark on Canyon High School athletics—Caroline Hicks. As a coach, every once in a while you get the opportunity to work with an athlete who is simply different. An athlete whose competitiveness and drive stand out immediately. Caroline is one of those athletes, and without question, one of the best athletes I have ever had the privilege of coaching. We begin with flag football, where Caroline once again proved she could impact a game in every possible way. She earned First Team All-League honors while leading the team in receiving yards per game and receiving touchdowns. She also finished third on the team in total touchdowns and third in interceptions, which perfectly reflects the type of player she is—someone who contributes everywhere. Then came track and field, where her athleticism was on full display once again. Caroline became Crestview League Champion in both the long jump and triple jump while also finishing second in the 300 hurdles and helping the 4×400 relay team earn a second-place league finish. She qualified for CIF in all of those events while battling through injuries, which is an incredible accomplishment on its own. And finally, soccer—the sport where I’ve had the opportunity to witness firsthand just how special Caroline truly is. This season, Caroline earned Crestview League MVP honors, First Team All-League, First Team All-CIF, First Team All-Orange County, and was selected as our team MVP. She finished the season with 12 goals and 4 assists in 21 games, and when she recorded a goal or assist, our team went 12 wins, 1 tie, and only 1 loss. In league play alone, she had 7 goals and 2 assists in just 8 games. But the stats only tell part of the story. What separates Caroline is the standard she brings every single day. She competes with confidence, intensity, and an inner drive that you cannot teach. She has the ability to completely change the momentum of a game, but she also makes everyone around her better. Her teammates respect her because they know how hard she works and also how much she cares. As coaches, we talk all the time about players who leave a legacy in a program. Caroline has absolutely done that. She has helped raise the standard of what Canyon athletics can look like, and she has represented our school with toughness, class, and pride in every sport she has competed in. Very few athletes can play three varsity sports. Very few can dominate three varsity sports. And even fewer leave the kind of impact Caroline has left on Canyon athletics.

Caroline, congratulations on being named this year’s Canyon Female Athlete of the Year.”