Wilton Public Schools Athletics "Salute to Excellence"

At the most recent Board of Education meeting, Athletic Director Chris McDougal presented an overview of the athletics program at Wilton High School before introducing representatives from the two athletic teams who were awarded this month’s salute to excellence.

Highlights from Mr. McDougal’s presentation included:

  • WHS fields 30 Varsity teams,15 Junior Varsity teams, 8 Freshmen teams. These are broken down as 13 Boys, 15 girls, 2 co-ed teams.
  • Unified Sports Special Olympics Committee recognized Wilton High School as a National Unified champion school this year.
  •  60% of High School students participate in at least one sport.
  • 28 graduating seniors will be participating in college athletics next year. Among the schools they will be going to are: Brown University, University of  Notre dame, Boston College,  Elon university, College of Holy Cross, Fairfield University, High Point University, Air Force Academy,  Merrimack College, University of Michigan, Lee High University,  Boston College,  UMASS Amherst.
  • Many athletes received post season accolades and honors everything from FCIAC honorable mention to all American.
  • Three coaches have received FCIAC honors of coach of excellence. They were - Joel Geriak- boys basketball; Todd Stevens - swimming and diving; Gary Chadwick - gymnastics.

The first team receiving the Salute to Excellence was the Boys ski team coached byMike Collins.

‘I would like to thank you recognizing our boys for their two undefeated seasons. Success rests with the students, they are constantly on the radio giving course feedback to team makes, pouring over the footage, giving each other feedback and tips.  The Wilton team are the last ones at the top of the mountain. They always make sure every last skier is cheered on as they come down the mountain. I have been stopped so many times at Southington- where were do our races, coaches from other schools are always telling me how impressed by their spirit and the love the boys have for the sport. It’s been a privilege and an honor to coach this team.  Thank you for supporting our team. Most of all I want to thank our students an especially captain August Theoharides for leading our team.

The second team to be recognized was girls gymnastics, coached by Gary Chadwick

‘We had quite a run for 11 years, being named all American team, however during that time frame, our last state title was in 2009. I’m here with three of my seniors who have been co-captains either this year or last year.  Thank you for the seniors for setting the tone for the underclassman, thank you to Joan Ketley for the last 17 years for having someone to bounce ideas off, who knows, I might not be here if not for her. She stayed long after her daughter graduated and I’m very grateful for that’. Three members of the team were there to receive the award -Taylor White, Sam Huffman and Brooke Taffler. 

W
Submitted by Wilton, CT

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