Category: Person of Distinction | Page 4

Character & Leadership Student Spotlight – Bellingham High School

07/07/2023 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 Bellingham High School!

BELLINGHAM HIGH SCHOOL

Selflessness – Elsbeth Wolverton

In an era where most people specialize and focus on just one discipline, Elle stood above the rest. Elle was a successful three-sport athlete in soccer, basketball and tennis. Elle’s willingness to accept and embrace leadership opportunities really stood out. Her peers and coaches benefitted from Elle as a teammate, leader and champion. We are so proud of her!

Preparation – Grayson Stone

Grayson is not only a great academic, he’s also a loyal teammate, selfless leader and is keenly focused on what it takes to succeed. Grayson was involved in student leadership, basketball, track and field and ultimate frisbee. His preparation, dedication to put in the work and willingness to serve his school is admired by all who know him!

Character & Leadership Student Spotlight – Sehome High School

07/01/202307/01/2023 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

SEHOME HIGH SCHOOL

Good Judgement – Eva Ekdahl

“Eva plays fairly, works with the entire Sehome tennis community, and is very coachable. As a Varsity player, she has worked independently, on her own accord, to help and mentor a JV/C team player who is new to tennis. Eva embodies the character we strive to promote with all of our student athletes. We are very proud of you Eva!”

Girls Tennis: Head Coach Morgan Fox

Strong Focus – Grant Gusukuma

“Grant is a junior and a 2 year letterman on the Sehome boys track and field team. He as been a great leader who has lead by example. Grant has been focused and committed to his development as a student athlete. He is the first to show up and the last to leave. Grant often demonstrates his service to others by volunteering to help work the track meets when there is a shortage of workers even though he is competing. Grant is a part of the Bellingham school district middle school track and field work crew and has been a great ambassador to the sport. We are proud of you Grant!!”

Tim Carlson – Sehome HS Throws Coach

Storm Person of Distinction – Bob Lazzar-Atwood

06/20/202306/20/2023 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.

Starting this spring, 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!

Squalicum Athletics

Person of Distinction – Bob Lazzar-Atwood

Testimonials

“Whether it is a student, staff member or community member, Bob sees people. If there is a need, he willing steps in to assist in finding a solution. With a heart for the underdog, he looks for opportunities to include people. No matter the occasion, you can hear Bob say “How can I help?” and “What can I do?”

Pam Behee

“A paragraph does not sum up the admiration and respect I have for this man…Mr. Bob is an invaluable member of our school community and an incredible influence on our students and staff alike. Mr. Bob has become a much-loved and respected teacher, coach, and supporter of all “things” Squalicum. Drama, Choir, Band, and Unified Sports are just a few of the “lucky ones” to have Mr. Bob’s unwavering enthusiasm and commitment -You will find no one cheering louder or clapping longer! Bob’s infectious enthusiasm and boundless energy has created a welcoming environment for our students and shown us what it means to be a part of the Storm Family. Squalicum is the lucky recipient of his dedication currently, but many other schools have equally benefited from his presence over the years. His commitment to loving and supporting our students will leave a lasting impact on everyone he has ever worked with or touched.”

Jill Conner

“Bob has been a long-time educator with Squalicum High School working in the Life-Skills Program. Bob has coached boys and girls sub-varsity tennis and has been very active in Unified Sports. In addition, Bob has worked many, many Squalicum High School sporting events. He is most well-known by other schools as the enthusiastic greeter at our ticket booth. Bob always has a welcoming smile and warm greeting to our guests, and he makes sure everyone feels welcome. Many times, I have had visiting parents comment to me that they feel so welcome at Squalicum because of how they were treated when they entered the building. That is Mr. Bob at his best, making us all look good.”

Patrick Brown

Mountaineers Person of Distinction – Bret Pugmire

06/06/202305/19/2023 by kowen

NORTHWEST CONFERENCE – PERSON OF DISTINCTION AWARD

Mount Baker Athletics

Person of Distinction – Bret Pugmire

Bret Pugmire arrived in Deming 28 years ago by way of James Marshall High School in Sacramento, CA and Western Washington University. He was a letter winner in Football, Basketball and Baseball. Bret also played football and crew at WWU. Coach Pugmire began coaching softball over 29 years ago at both the high school and junior high. Bret is more than a coach, he has spent countless hours working on the softball and baseball fields and also helps film varsity football games. You can find Coach Pugmire doing his work in shorts year-round. Bret brings his vast experience and outstanding sense of humor on a daily basis. Coach Pugmire doesn’t get a ton of recognition for all of his work behind the scenes but that is how he prefers it. Our students are lucky to have someone who is willing to give so much for their success.

Testimonials

“In the 20 years that I have been coaching, the most valuable asset to our program has been Coach Pugmire. He puts his whole heart into our athletes. He volunteers hours of his personal time to maintain our fields and equipment to ensure that our players have the best playing conditions that we can offer. He builds relationships with our kids that have a lifelong impact and teaches them to have confidence in their contribution to a team. He is the first to congratulate successes and always provides quality instruction to help athletes improve. He makes everything about our program better.”

Erin DeRoco

Math Teacher & MBJH Softball Coach

“Coach Brett Pugmire is an institution. He embodies Baker softball and has for years. As a coach he is knowledgeable and explains things to players in a way that makes them understand, no matter what level they play. He is just as effective with 7th grade players as he is with high school seniors. But that is not where his skill set or involvement ends. He is the ultimate grounds crewman and has spent countless hours making sure our facilities are game and practice ready. He doesn’t reap any additional benefits from it, he just does it out of the goodness of his heart. If something softball needs doing, he is our go to guy. We are a better program because of him and his dedication.”

Sara Strachila

Spanish Teacher & MBHS Softball Coach

Trojans Person of Distinction – Sharon McCormick

06/16/202305/18/2023 by kowen

NORTHWEST CONFERENCE – PERSON OF DISTINCTION AWARD

Meridian Athletics

Person of Distinction – Sharon McCormick

Sharon McCormick is an outstanding community member who is connected in every aspect at Meridian. Sharon started coaching and helping at Meridian while her children were young to help support our youth programs. After Nick and Lou graduated, her support did not end. She has continued to coach youth soccer and help out in whatever area has been needed while advocating for Meridian students. Sharon currently wears multiple hats in Laurel. From running the scoreboard at basketball games to announcing soccer, she is always willing to help out.

Sharon is the epitome of what it means to be a Meridian Trojan. She is dedicated, tenacious, and supports our students in all of their endeavors. We are lucky to have such an amazing person in our community.

Testimonials

“As long as I have known Sharon, she has been involved with the soccer program at ALL levels, youth soccer thru high school. She has been a youth coach, coaching 1, 2 and even 3 teams in a season, as well as playing in the adult leagues herself. She is now the announcer for both boys and girls soccer at Meridian High School. She had a major hand in starting the Meridian 3v3 Soccer Tournament for kids K-8 10 or 12 years ago. Even though she handed over the reins several years ago, she is still very involved in the tournament today. She was also a member of the Meridian Booster Club holding several positions, including being a Board Member and a Vice President. Sharon’s selection is well deserved and long overdue. Congratulations Sharon.”
Randy Kirk
Meridian community member and Athletic Department Employee

“I have known Sharon McCormick for only a few years and as the former Athletic Director at Meridian High School, Sharon is the type of person that I always searched for as a worker and coach. Sharon is a hard worker who is on top of everything she tackles, regardless of the task. Sharon has an outstanding personality and is a pleasure to work with at events for the Meridian School District. Sharon is a perfect selection for this honor.”

Steve Miller

Former Meridian School District Athletic Director

“Sharon has been an invaluable volunteer for Meridian Youth Soccer. She volunteers her time to help coach youth soccer players and helps with our annual 3v3 tournament. Sharon is currently coaching 3 teams for Meridian Youth Soccer. She started coaching when her kids were in the program and has continued to coach each year since, even though her kids are no longer playing. She loves to teach and help kids learn the game of soccer. Sharon is always willing to step up and help out when needed. She is a tremendous asset to the Meridian community and our youth players.”

Denise Richter

Meridian community member and MYS Soccer board member

Wildcats Person of Distinction – Jo Ann Wichers

05/31/202305/18/2023 by kowen

NORTHWEST CONFERENCE – PERSON OF DISTINCTION AWARD

Oak Harbor Athletics

Person of Distinction – Jo Ann Wichers

Jo Ann Wichers has served as the athletics secretary for over 20+ years and has worked at Oak Harbor for 25+ years. She is the rock of the athletic department at Oak Harbor. Her knowledge and experience has enriched the lives of athletes. Jo Ann has helped students become engaged and eligible to compete and excel. Jo Ann has become indispensable for both staff, parents, and students. Without her help, resolving issues would become much more difficult. Jo Ann remains invaluable to the success of athletics at OHHS. I have never met a more committed person to the success of our athletic programs. Her tenacity and drive to take care of every coach and player is unmatched. From scheduling buses to checking physicals – JoAnn carries out her responsibilities like a champion and treats every student athlete like they are a varsity star.

Testimonials

“JoAnn is the heartbeat of the high school. In my 25+ years of teaching/coaching she has been the single most important person I have worked with. There are not enough positive words that can be used to describe her and her impact on coaches, athletes, and parents. There should be an Oak Harbor High School athletic staff hall of fame and she should be the inaugural member.”

Eric Peterson

XC/Track Coach

“Ms. JoAnn is one of the nicest, caring, most patient people I know. Wherever you go into the Athletic office, she is always polite, willing to listen and help, and on top of that after working countless hours to make the coaches jobs easier, she takes the time to thank the coaches for their time. JoAnn honestly cares about the programs, the kids and the coaches along with being the best asset to our Athletic Director. JoAnn is an incredible asset to OHHS.”

Mike Lonborg

Girls Soccer

“JoAnn is an integral part of the success of all sports programs at OHHS. She facilitates coaches’ needs and keeps us updated on students, travel requests and post season events. JoAnn goes above and beyond her job description for the benefit of the athletes and the sports programs at OHHS.”

David Smith

Boys Golf

Cougars Person of Distinction – Matt Wright

05/18/202305/15/2023 by kowen

NORTHWEST CONFERENCE – PERSON OF DISTINCTION AWARD

Lakewood Athletics

Person of Distinction – Matt Wright

Matt Wright is a huge part of the Lakewood Community and one that brings so much joy not in the moment, but for years to come. His amazing photographs of both athletes and fans create lasting memories to look back on forever.

Matt has been a member of the Lakewood Athletic Community for over a decade, beginning when his oldest son, Gavin joined his first t-ball team. Matt began capturing LHS events in the summer of 2015. Since then, Matt has spent countless hours at LHS events, capturing every moment on and off the field.

When Matt is on the sideline, you never know what you’re going to get – from him or from his camera. Coach O’Hara remembers meeting him for the first time at a wrestling event; Matt was jumping around and being goofy and Coach thought he might have to ask him to stay in the stands. Another Coach, who was familiar with Matt’s work from the Middle School, assured him that he was harmless. Matt overheard this and said to Mr. O’Hara, “Don’t worry, Coach, you’ll get used to me.”

Matt gives so much to the students and families of Lakewood with his gift of photography and yet he never asks for anything in return.

Testimonials:

“Matt is at every Lakewood even, supporting the community with not only his photos, but his fun personality. Matt is one of the most outgoing and caring people and we are honored to have him be a part of the Lakewood family.”

Rachael Anderson

Girls Varsity Basketball Coach

“The man has never met a memorable moment (good or bad) that he couldn’t capture via his photographs.”

Chris Walster

Unified Basketball & Girls Varsity Golf Coach

“Matt is a treasure and is deserving of so much credit and recognition.”

Dan Teeter

Head Football Coach

Lyncs Person of Distinction – Kristen Hinton

05/13/202305/12/2023 by kowen

NORTHWEST CONFERENCE – PERSON OF DISTINCTION AWARD

Lynden Christian Athletics

Person of Distinction – Kristen Hinton

Kristen Hinton is originally from Grand Coulee, WA having graduated from Lake Roosevelt HS where she competed in Volleyball, Track, and Cheer. She continued competing in track as a sprinter at Whitworth University where she earned her degree in math. Kristen has been a math teacher at Lynden Christian HS since 2008 and in that time she has helped at volleyball matches as the score book keeper and for track as the person running the timing system. Kristen truly has a heart for doing what is best for students in and out of the classroom. Kristen can be counted on to cheerfully help with behind the scenes work, from classwork to committees to curriculum to athletics, etc. She rarely gets the recognition or credit she deserves which is why we are celebrating her as a Lynden Christian Person of Distinction. We are grateful to Kristen for sharing her time, talents, service, and heart with the students and staff at LCS.

Testimonials

“Kristen Hinton is the epitome of volunteerism. She has been an integral part of our track program for the past 15 years in her role as computer technician running the electronic camera system at our track meets. Kristen is consistently dependent, always on time and treats everyone with a big smile. She comes early, sets up the computers and cameras and puts them away very carefully. When I think of a giving spirit even at the end of an exhausting day teaching math, I think of Kristen. We are so blessed to have her on our track officials team.”

Harlan Kredit – Track Coach & Meet director

“Kristen is the kind of person who loves to help without regard for credit or even a “thank you” being said. Her volunteer work is always accurate and careful, so student achievement is elevated. Kristen’s behind-the-scenes work always helps the school shine.”

Craig Johnson – HS Principal

“I have worked with Kristen for all of her 15 years at Lynden Christian. She was my daughter’s favorite math teacher! I work closely with her at all our home track meets and she quietly does her job with the utmost attention to detail. She sets the timing system up, making sure all is in order, then runs the timing system during every home track meet (high school and middle school and post season) after teaching math all day. I do the data entry, I cannot say enough how much I appreciate Kristen. We could not run our track meets without her!”

Vicki Lindquist – parent & Activities Assistant

Bayhawks Person of Distinction – John Philbeck

05/02/202305/02/2023 by kowen

NORTHWEST CONFERENCE – PERSON OF DISTINCTION AWARD

Bellingham Athletics

Person of Distinction – John Philbeck

John “Papa Phil” Philbeck moved to Sudden Valley with his wife Diana upon retiring in 2021. He reached out to local schools seeking a way to become active in the community. At the same time, BHS was looking for someone to announce home softball and baseball games at their new facilities. A match was made, and John jumped in headfirst to not only announce and run the scoreboard at games, but also to entertain the players, parents and fans with music, trivia (and cookies!).

As a kid growing up in Roanoke, Virginia, John worshipped Mickey Mantle and Roger Marris. His playing development progressed from little league to Babe Ruth, Connie Mac, and every rec league he could find. He played second base and loved being a catcher. At Virginia Commonwealth University, John was a catcher and became the team manager.

John joined the umpire’s association and officiated leagues ranging from Sandy Koufax (youth) to college level for 15 years. In addition, he volunteered with his children’s PTSA and helped coach his daughter’s soccer and fast pitch teams.

Now, when he’s not golfing John can be found organizing and playing ping pong with an informal group of players ranging from teens to seventy somethings.

Testimonials

“John shows unwavering support for our softball program. He creates an environment that athletes and fans alike want to be a part of. He makes each athlete feel special and like an important part of our program. He is the first to point out the positive after a tough loss. Bayhawaks softball wouldn’t be Bayhawks softball without Papa Phil!“

-Kaeli Andersen, Head Softball Coach

“John has been there for nearly every home game we’ve had. We always enjoy Papa Phil’s trivia questions he asks in between innings, and we really appreciate all the hard work he puts in for us.“

-Jake Troost, baseball player

“We deeply appreciate all that John has brought to our two programs. People from outside communities regularly comment on the warm hospitality that John provides before, during and after the games. John’s efforts enhance the experience for all who attend and participate. We all benefit from his passion to provide a memorable experience. Bellingham High is special because of people like John!“

-Chad Larsen, AD

“Every afternoon when we are hosting baseball and/or fastpitch, I know that Papa Phil is here by the music and general good vibes coming from our speakers. John is always prepared, gets to know our students well, and creates the ideal atmosphere that we all associate with the ballpark. His trivia questions (and the fact that he brings prizes) create just the right atmosphere. And…the players love him!“

-Marty Atkins, Principal

Lions Person of Distinction – Amanda Schuyleman

04/28/202304/28/2023 by kowen

NORTHWEST CONFERENCE – PERSON OF DISTINCTION AWARD

Lynden Athletics

Person of Distinction – Amanda Schuyleman

Amanda Schuyleman knows what it’s like to be an impact player. But most fans will never know her name. Fans won’t tell their friends what this impact player did in the last game to help the team win. Amanda has been a student athletic trainer for 4 years now as she prepares for a healthcare career of her own. In that time, she’s taped thousands of ankles, listened to players’ aches and pains, traveled thousands of miles while doing her homework on team buses, made ice bags, carried heavy medical kits and tables, assisted during emergencies, taken AP classes, practiced annual emergency plans with the local EMTs, remembered to have coach’s gum handy for every game and competed in the State and (soon to be) Nationals high school healthcare (HOSA) competitions. Oh yes, and a part of 4 State Championship sports teams as student trainer. Lynden High School Athletics programs are successful because of the many impact players like Amanda Schuyleman, whose names you may never hear.

Testimonials

“Amanda is a consummate professional and has maturity years beyond her age. She has been a key part of our Football Success the past 4 years working tirelessly to take care of over 100 athletes and does so with a smile. Her positive attitude and hard work ethic is infectious and rubs off on the entire program she is working with. Thanks Amanda!”

Blake VanDalen

Head Football Coach

“When I think of Amanda Schuyleman, I think of a young woman who demonstrates dedication, poise and excellence and does so with a heart for serving others. As our student-trainer for the past four years in Boys Basketball at Lynden High School, Amanda brought a consistent effort and a willingness to learn and grow in her field of study. She was always there, always communicating and always looking for ways to help keep our players healthy. What stands out to me is that Amanda did these tasks with a smile and a strong desire to help coaches and athletes. She worked behind the scenes but was such a key part of our success. We will miss her next year perhaps more than we know. The was the best student-trainer I have had in 30 years as a head coach.”

Brian Roper

Head Boys Basketball Coach