Every day, Heatly students Donovan Carrington, Madelynn McCarthy, Owen Apisa and Logan Seeloff exemplify qualities of exceptional leadership. These students always give their best effort, whether it be in P.E. class or with their academics. They consistently show a positive morale, care for their fellow school community members and serve as role models to younger students. For these reasons and many more, Heatly coaches Jodi Fowler and Brian Ford nominated Donovan, Madelynn, Owen and Logan for the Sandra G. Morley Elementary/Middle Student Leadership Award in Physical Education.
Sixth graders Donovan Carrington and Madelynn McCarthy were nominated by Coach Fowler and Coach Ford for their leadership, both inside and outside the school gym. The two students are confident in character, making the right choice even when no one is watching. They’re also conscientious and caring; both students regularly think of others and are the first to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.
“Donovan and Madelynn are looked up to by our younger students, as well as their peers,” said Coach Fowler.
Eighth grade students Owen Apisa and Logan Seeloff were also selected for this award by Coach Fowler and Coach Ford. The two young men consistently work hard in P.E. class, as well as their academics. In P.E. class, Owen and Logan arrive at each session ready to perform any exercise, sport or activity to the best of their abilities. Outside of the school gym, the two students are diligent about their grades and always give their best effort to each assignment.
“Owen and Logan are very kind and respectful students, and demonstrate those qualities daily in their interactions with teachers and fellow classmates,” Coach Fowler said.
The four Heatly students received their awards on Monday, May 8 at Hudson Valley Community College by the Capital Zone of the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (NYS APHERD). They were part of over 700 students from public and private schools across the Capital Region to be presented with this accolade.
Award recipients listened to keynote speaker Tay Fisher, a former Harlem Globetrotter, who then showcased some of his amazing basketball skills. Award honorees were called up to the stage following Mr. Fisher’s speech and shook hands with Sandra Morely, a Capital Region P.E. teacher and administrator for whom the event was named. Students received a certificate and tee shirt to commemorate their extraordinary achievements.
“We are so proud of these four young leaders!” Coach Fowler said enthusiastically.
The Sandra G. Morley Elementary/Middle Student Leadership Award in Physical Education is given to students who demonstrate high levels of fitness, academic excellence, remarkable leadership qualities and outstanding service to their school or community. Each school is allowed to nominate up to ten students.