The Inter-Academic Athletic League Directors of Athletics named 13 student-athletes as recipients of the annual Inter-Ac AD’s awards. The AD’s Award is presented annually to a senior girl and/or senior boy who has been a multi-sport varsity athlete and has exemplified dedication to their team and school. Recipients are considered to be outstanding representatives of the Inter-Ac League in sportsmanship and leadership. 
 
The AD’s Award began as the Willard Award in 1997 and from 1997-2010 the award recognized accomplished three sport athletes within the Girls Inter-Ac League. After the Boys and Girls’ Leagues merged in 2013, the award became the AD’s Award. Boys were first recognized with this award in 2019.
 
Wells Flinn – The Haverford School
Sports: Soccer, Ice Hockey, Lacrosse
College Attending: United States Air Force Academy – Lacrosse
 
I am so grateful for my Haverford experience. I am thankful that I had such great coaches and teammates that pushed me to be a better athlete and person. Sports have been a major part of my life at Haverford and the memories and friendships will last a lifetime. I will miss wearing maroon and gold. – Wells Flinn
 
Wells truly was the heart and soul of a team that went from worst to first in the Inter Ac. Starting with summer workouts, throughout the entire season, he led the entire group by example and held everyone to a high standard. Even though soccer was not his number 1 sport, and he had taken time off from the sport, he poured everything he had into each day, to be a little better than before. His energy and enthusiasm in support of his peers were always second to none, and I could not picture my first year, or our team's success, without him as a part of the Fords' soccer program. – Coach Keith Cappo - Soccer
 
Wells played any position we needed him to and always delivered. A stalwart on the back end and a physical force as a forward, he led by example and challenged his teammates. He set the bar for what it takes to wear the C for Haverford Hockey. Air Force is getting a good one. – Coach Thomas Lindberg - Ice Hockey

Wells Flinn represents all that we want in our lacrosse program - I can't think of a better person to receive this award. Wells is the ultimate team player, his attitude, work ethic and toughness are unmatched. While a very skilled player, Wells is eager to make every play in a lacrosse game that doesn't always show up on the stat sheet, for that he is loved by his teammates and coaches. - Coach Brendan Dawson - Lacrosse

 James Glomb – William Penn Charter School
Sports: Cross Country, Wrestling (capt.), Rowing (capt.)
College Attending: University of Pennsylvania – Rowing
 
I am grateful to have had the opportunity to participate in the Inter-Ac league. In the early moments of my athletic journey, my ability to understand the importance of teamwork, culture, and the hard work it would take to achieve success was limited. I was simply going through the motions; unaware of the life skills, friendships, and lessons in perseverance that I would embrace through my participation in sports. The level of competition, leadership, and sportsmanship that I have been surrounded by these past 4 years competing in the Inter-Ac league has shaped me into the student-athlete and man that I am today. I am thankful for all the coaches and mentors that have impacted my athletic journey. It is these people who have helped me become the athlete and person I am today. I would also like to thank my parents for giving me the opportunity to attend Penn Charter, giving me the chance to push myself in the classroom as well as in athletics. Lastly, to my teammates, I will forever cherish the sweet moments of victory as well as the lessons borne out of the struggles that we faced together. Penn Charter has prepared me to compete athletically, academically, and in life at the next level and beyond. The relationships that I have forged, through competition in sports, are friendships and experiences that I will remember for the rest of my life. – James Glomb
 
When James tried out for the crew team as a freshman, my first thought was that here is someone who would always “row through the line.” James has demonstrated time and time again that he would never give up on a race before the finish line, and he will do whatever he possibly can to help his boat get across the line first. James is competitive, but in a way that makes everyone around him work harder too. Coachable and willing to put in the time to make changes, James keeps making improvements, and always pursues opportunities to grow as an athlete and a rower. A more respectful, grateful team member you will never find. Congratulations, James! – Coach Katherine York - Rowing
 
Juggling two physically demanding sports requires exceptional dedication, discipline, and time-management skills. While striving to be a division 1 rower, the fact that James Glomb is also wrestling shows that he possesses a strong work ethic and a deep passion for sports. Additionally, these two sports require different sets of skills and strengths. Rowing requires endurance, strength, and exceptional technique, whereas wrestling demands agility, quick reflexes, and the ability to anticipate your opponent's moves. Being able to excel in both of these sports shows that James has a diverse set of abilities, and is adaptable to different training regimens. Overall, James is a hard-working rower who also wrestles and should be commended for his dedication, perseverance, and impressive athletic abilities. It is not an easy feat to juggle two sports at a high level, and James’s commitment to both sports is a testament to his love for competition and the pursuit of excellence. – Coach Peter Schaifer - Wrestling
 
It was a pleasure coaching James in cross country. Not only is James a tremendous athlete, he is a great person and team leader. He made those around him and our team better. A coach couldn’t ask for more. He is very deserving of this recognition. Congratulations James and best of luck in your future endeavors! – Coach Tim Zwall – Cross Country
 
Maya Johnson – Agnes Irwin School
Sports: Soccer (capt.), Indoor Track (capt.), Outdoor Track (capt.)
College Attending: University of Pennsylvania
 
Competing for Agnes Irwin in the Inter=Ac has taught me so much both on and off the field and has given me many unforgettable experiences over the past four years. I am grateful to have been a part of such a dedicated athletic community and for the lasting bonds I have formed with teammates, players, and coaches. I am honored to be recognized by Agnes Irwin and the Inter-Ac with this award. Thank you to everyone who has supported me in my athletic endeavors, and congratulations to all the other award winners! – Maya Johnson
 
Maya is our captain and a strong team leader. She is someone you can count on to show up and give 100 percent every day. While Maya pushes herself, she brings her teammates along, setting the tone and raising the bar for everyone around her. She is the definition of a true athlete and one many on the team look up to. – Coach Pat Williams - Track
 
Despite Maya’s gentle nature, she is a fierce competitor on the field whose skills are admired by teammates and opponents alike. Her unwavering commitment to self-improvement permeates everything she does. She is a tremendous athlete and person; she cares about others deeply, she pours herself into everything she does, and she leads by example every day. – Coach Katherine Nickols - Soccer
 
I consider myself very fortunate to have coached Maya in the distance running group in Track & Field. She is a supportive and encouraging teammate yet possesses a super competitive mindset. Maya is a soft spoken individual who leads by example and that example is a great work ethic. Her ability to compete and win in the distance events, without the advantage of running in all 3 seasons per year shows just how hard she works. At the end of this season, we are going to miss Maya. – Coach John O’Brien - Track
 
Margo Kemp – Academy of Notre Dame
Sport: Volleyball (capt.)
College Attending: Xavier University – Volleyball
 
My time playing volleyball at Notre Dame has been the best four years of my life. The program has given me so many opportunities to thrive, create friendships, receive high level coaching, and compete at a high level. From being a timid freshman who looked up to the seniors on the team, to becoming those seniors four years later; I wouldn’t change this team for the world. The Notre Dame volleyball program has given me every tool I needed to be able to continue my athletic and academic career at Xavier University. I am so excited to see what the future holds, but I will never forget all that volleyball has given me. – Margo Kemp
 
I would best describe Margo as a generational player. A unique player who a coach is fortunate to have as a player and captain once, if ever, in their coaching career.  First, as a player, she committed herself to working tirelessly to become an unstoppable attacker and a fearsome blocker and defender. Those talents were recognized with her selection as the Inter Ac League's Most Valuable Volleyball Player; First team All Main as a Junior and Senior and First team All Delaware County.  She arguably is the most talented volleyball player in southeastern Pennsylvania which is why she was sought after by Xavier University's volleyball coach to continue her play in their program.
As a captain and teammate are the intangible qualities she displayed in those roles.  This season was very challenging with injuries resulting in 2 to 3 starters out for most of the season.  Yet, in combination with her playing skills, Margo's encouragement, support, and calm demeanor provided her teammates with the confidence, spirit and energy to overcome those challenges. She did it in a way that was fun without losing focus on that task at hand. Her teammates and coaches knew that with Margo any adversity could be overcome. And she never disappointed. – Coach Mike Sheridan - Volleyball
 
Sarah Marvin – Germantown Academy
Sports: Lacrosse (capt.) and Field Hockey
College Attending: Trinity College – Lacrosse
 
Throughout my time at GA, athletics have been a truly crucial part of my experience. Playing in the Inter-Ac against some of my closest friends while being challenged in a competitive environment has shaped me into the player and person I am today. GA has instilled leadership, dedication, and most importantly helped me to foster connection with my teammates. I want to thank my parents, siblings, coaches, teammates, and GA for always supporting me. – Sarah Marvin
 
Although field hockey isn’t Sarah’s primary, or even her secondary sport, she was a huge asset to our team and program over the past four years. Her quiet persistence and raw athleticism combined to make her a great hockey player. Whether she was facing an injury, an opponent, or a hard training session, she did so with grit and good-natured humor. Simply put, she’s the kind of person that will improve any team that she’s on. – Coach Jackie Connard - Field Hockey
 
Sarah Marvin leads with her actions. She works hard and puts her heart into everything she does. She's a force on the field and inspires her teammates to play their best and brings the team together with her selflessness and dedication. – Coach Diana Shumar - Lacrosse
 
Aidan McHugh – Episcopal Academy
Sports: Cross Country, Indoor Track, Outdoor Track
College Attending: Boston College – Cross Country
 
It's been an honor to be a part of EA athletics as it has taught me discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. Being a part of the cross country and track teams has ingrained in me a strong work ethic which has affected me on and off the track. It's created a sense of belonging and community with the great coaches, teammates, and school spirit we have here. Through the highs and lows of competition EA athletics has helped me learn through it all with grace and resilience, skills that will help me in all aspects of my life. – Aidan McHugh
 
Aidan is the ultimate gamer.  He had his best races in our biggest races of the cross country season which is why he was selected first team all-state this past fall.  Aidan is a great teammate and his peers really look up to him.  Aidan is intentional about getting to know all members of the distance squad to make sure they feel a part of the team. – Coach Jim Farrell – Cross Country
 
Having a successful winter track program requires great leadership. The days are long, dark, and cold. We need great leaders on the team to keep morale high and to keep the team motivated for great workouts. Aidan fits that bill. Each day at practice he gives everything he has and the team notices. They see a senior leader working hard on these dreary days and they fall in line. During our meets, he performs at a high level in his races. When he's done, he pushes others to do the same. Our state championship season would not have been possible without a leader like Aidan. – Coach Zach Richards – Track & Field
 
A.J. Nikolic – Malvern Prep
Sports: Football and Lacrosse
College Attending: Cornell University – Lacrosse
 
The decision to go to Malvern was one of my best. Taking the leap into the unknown turned out to be perfect for my family and I, as Malvern provided the best teachers, Coaches, and Opportunities for me to succeed. – A.J. Nikolic
 
A.J. has talent that is unmatched amongst his peers. But that’s not where A.J. sets himself apart. His toughness, grit, and will to get the job done are what make him a phenomenal competitor. Furthermore, A.J.’s effort and competitiveness are contagious to his teammates. Lastly, A.J. is receptive to coaching from his mentors which shows a humbleness that is important to succeed in athletics. – Coach Dave Gueriera - Football
 
A.J. Nikiolic stands out among his peer group because he holds himself to a higher athletic standard than most. He possesses a rare combination of athleticism, skill, a mature understanding, and a fierce competitive spirit in all athletic areas. He does not take any of his success for granted. Not only is he usually our best player, but he is the hardest-working player constantly searching for improvement. He has proven to be the model for his teammates and coaches within the lacrosse program at Malvern Prep. – Coach Matt Mackrides – Lacrosse
 
Katie Reed – The Baldwin School
Sports: Soccer (capt.), Indoor Track (capt.), Lacrosse (capt.)
College Attending: Washington & Lee University – Lacrosse
 
On and off the field and track, Baldwin has pushed me to strive for the best version of myself. I will always be grateful for the opportunities given to me with the encouragement from my teachers, coaches, peers, and teammates. They have all had such an incredible impact on me and allowed me to get the most from my time at Baldwin. Playing sports has been such an integral part of my life and who I am, and being a part of the Inter-Ac league has only furthered my appreciation for athletics. The intense and eager competition and rivalries have given me a competitive and spirited foundation to carry with me well beyond high school. Congratulations to all the other award recipients and good luck as you continue forward! – Katie Reed
 
Katie is a talented multi-sport student-athlete and highly respected leader in the school community. She served as a three-sport captain and head of the Athletic Association during her senior year. Katie is a hard worker and committed to excellence inside and outside the classroom. She competes with passion and pride and goes out of her way to make sure her teammates are learning and having a fun experience. Washington & Lee University is getting a well-rounded student-athlete who will contribute greatly to the lacrosse program and school community. – Coach Adrian Cox - Soccer
 
This was Katie’s final indoor track season at Baldwin and I had the pleasure of being her head coach.  She was one of our team captains and led with grace and optimism every day. Katie made time for all of her teammates, whether they were record scoring athletes or just participating as a way to better themselves. She has a very laid back personality that puts many people at ease at meets, when tensions usually rise high and it's very easy to be mentally frustrated. Katie is an excellent leader, always anticipating what we as coaches needed from her, as well as keeping a finger on the pulse of the team. Aside from her stewardship of the team, Katie is also an exemplary athlete.  Katie either PR-ed or was awarded a medal at every meet we attended this season.  She won medals for both individual and relay events, always pushing herself to improve her 400 meter time.  Katie also ran the 300 for the first time at Ocean Breeze's Freedom Games, the largest high school indoor track meet in the country this season.  She won her heat and was ranked 20th in the state at the time of publication of results. 
Katie was an absolute pleasure to coach - we will miss her positive influence and spirited personality next year! – Coach Kate Leibrand - Indoor Track
 
In the four years I’ve known Katie as a player, she has been a leader on and off the field. Katie never fails to encourage her teammates to try something new and has their backs at both ends of the field. However, it is her versatility that truly makes her stand out. She is consistent all over the field, and steps up wherever she is needed. Katie has the ability to play strong defense, win the draw, and score goals. We are lucky to have her as a captain for the second year at Baldwin as she continues to exemplify both sportsmanship and skill throughout the lacrosse season. - Coach Christy Hunt - Lacrosse
 
Walker Schwartz – Germantown Academy
Sports: Lacrosse (capt.) & Ice Hockey (capt.)
College Attending: Cornell University – Lacrosse
 
Germantown Academy sports have given me great joy and opportunity and will always be a huge part of who I am, now and into the future. – Walker Schwartz
 
Walker Schwartz is an exceptionally gifted student-athlete. I have been fortunate to have had the perspective of knowing/seeing Walker grow through Germantown Academy’s Lower, Middle and Upper Schools - as well as witnessing his growth as a hockey player from his early days at Wissahickon Skating Club to his time with the Jr. Flyers organization to captaining the high school team here at Germantown Academy.
 
As a freshman, he was an impact player and someone we could rely on for goal scoring, play making, and ensuring that Germantown Academy was able to control and dictate the pace of games. In the league final of his freshman year, he scored a short-handed goal that will forever be etched in our collective memory not only for the skill and poise he demonstrated, but also for how it propelled us to that victory. He has always been recognized as a First Team All-League selection in his high school career with opposing coaches often wondering if he had graduated yet so that his teams wouldn’t have to defend him. He led our team in most offensive categories throughout his 4 years, but also demonstrated a strength and willingness to play the game the right way and to do the work that didn’t always show up on the scoresheet. He did a tremendous job captaining the team in his senior year and ensured that our locker room had a collective, inclusive, and competitive feel to it. Walker comes from a great family, and I appreciate his ability to balance his will to win with humility and awareness to do the right thing. Walker is an excellent choice for this award, and it has been an honor and privilege to coach this young man. - Matt Rominger - Ice Hockey Coach
 
Walker Schwartz introduced himself to me as "a hockey player that likes to play lacrosse in the offseason." Since then, he has had an impressive career on the lacrosse field. He was named First Team All-League as a sophomore. After the culmination of his junior year, he was named First Team All-league, All-State in Pennsylvania, and All-American. He is currently on the short list of individuals considered to be the best high school lacrosse player in the country as a senior.
 
Walker has started every lacrosse game since he entered the Upper School at Germantown Academy and has never missed a practice. He is an intense competitor that is seemingly incapable of giving anything but his best when he is on the field, and one of the most selfless and humble individuals off the field. He naturally leads with his voice and his actions. His teammates and coaches have the utmost respect for him as both a competitor and a person. He carries himself with a worth ethic that is matched by his integrity and humility. Walker will be attending Cornell University next fall as a recruited member of their men's lacrosse team. - Billy McKinney - Lacrosse Coach
 
Dani Shipon – William Penn Charter School
Sports: Soccer, Indoor Track (capt.), Outdoor Track (capt.)
College Attending: Washington University – Track & Field
 
I am a lifer at Penn Charter and as I reflect back on my experience, athletics has had a huge impact on me and has shaped me as a person. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to step out onto the field and track and compete against incredible athletes. The Inter-Ac has always been a competitive league and I am truly lucky that I have played varsity soccer, and ran indoor and outdoor track for all four years of high school. Throughout my experience I have learned that there are different types of leaders and as a captain I have learned a lot about myself. I have never been the loudest, but instead I tried to lead and support others by working hard, and proving my dependability. My coaches have always trusted me to lead by example and as a result I have made close friendships on all three teams; together we trained and together we competed. Thank you to my coaches who have allowed and encouraged me to be me. I am a better athlete and leader because of their trust and support. – Dani Shipon
 
It has been an absolute pleasure coaching Dani Shipon. She is an extraordinary athlete, lightning fast, and has an insane work ethic. Dani is a great role model for our younger players, she leads by example , leaves everything on the field, and does it all with a smile. Dani’s talent and dedication to our team will definitely be missed next year. – Coach Ashley Maher - Soccer
 
Over the past 4 years I have seen Dani grow into an exceptional athlete and person. The commitment and hard work she demonstrates has made her into the leader she is today. Her leadership has contributed to the culture and success of the track program. She will be truly missed and hard to replace. – Coach Candice Lee – Track & Field
 
Julia Thomson – Springside Chestnut Hill Academy
Sports: Soccer (capt.), Basketball, Track & Field
College Attending: University of Illinois Chicago - Soccer
 
I am honored to be recognized for my hard work in athletics that I have displayed over my four years at SCH. Being a multi-sport athlete at SCH has helped me foster discipline, integrity, and determination which I translate outside of athletics. My passion for athletics, especially soccer, has allowed me to accomplish my dreams while also creating valuable relationships. Looking back on my high school experience, some of my fondest memories have taken place on the field, basketball court, and track. My SCH sports teams have helped my athletic and leadership abilities flourish which I will carry into my collegiate career. – Julia Thomson
 
Julia is one of those student athletes you don’t come across often. Not only is she a fierce competitor and extremely talented on the soccer field but the way she carries herself and leads by example is something that every young female athlete should look up to. Since Julia’s freshman year she has played Varsity and never missed a game throughout her 4 years. Julia was captain her senior year, however displayed every characteristic of a captain since her freshman year. During Julia’s HS season she has never lost an Inter-Ac game, won 3 Inter-Ac titles and 2 PAISAA State Champs. Julia was also 1st team All Inter-Ac her junior and senior year. Julia will do amazing in college as any coach who has the pleasure of having a player and teammate like Julia should consider themselves lucky. Julia will be missed at SCH and has truly left her mark at SCH and with her coaches and teammates. - Coach Maria Kosmin - Soccer
 
Julia exemplifies the culture of our program. She's driven, hardworking, competitive, and a selfless teammate. Julia's defensive intensity often set the pace for our games and spurred impressive runs on offense. As a senior leader, she served as a role model for our younger players and a steadfast support for her peers. We'll miss you, Julia! – Coach Bartley Jeannoute - Girls Varsity Basketball
 
It has been a pleasure coaching Julia on the track team, as she is the ultimate hard worker and is a multi-talented athlete. My fondest moment with Julia was at last year's Penn Relays when she was a part of the 4x400m relay that took second place in the private school division. She always gives 100% during every practice and game, and is an excellent role model for her younger teammates. I know Julia will have continued success in college and I wish her all the best in her next chapter in life in Chicago! - 
Coach James Matthews - Track & Field 

Alexis Ventresca – Episcopal Academy
Sports: Field Hockey, Indoor Track, Lacrosse
College Attending: Northwestern University - Lacrosse
 
EA athletics has shown me what it means to be a part of a special community. While hard work and team commitment has led to championship wins, I’ve learned from Coach Buggy and Coach T that the true value of winning is taking something away from every experience and using it to make others around you better. I am grateful that I've had the opportunity to be on teams with positive cultures, where all the girls take so much pride in representing our school and playing for each other. I will carry all the values I've learned from EA athletics with me to Northwestern and always give my best on and off the field. – Alexis Ventresca
 
A constant motivator of our sprinter squad; carried a genuine enthusiasm that spread to the entire team. We, as coaches, could look to Lex for steadiness in leading our team through times that were easy and those that were tough in a variety of ways! – Coach John Goens – Indoor Track & Field
 
Lex gave her all every minute of every play this fall. Her leadership was extremely valuable helping guide a new varsity group through a playoff run. She cared about her teammates and wanted them to be the best they could be. Her work ethic isn't common but she always found time for others. – Coach Paul Zelenak – Field Hockey
 
Lex Ventresca is not only a very talented multi-sport athlete, she also holds a strong leadership presence in our program and within the community. Lex leads with positivity and encouragement. She inspires her teammates with her work ethic and drive to pursue excellence in all areas. – Coach Josie Tomaino – Lacrosse
 
Andrew Wood – Springside Chestnut Hill Academy
Sports: Indoor Track & Field & Outdoor Track & Field (capt.)
College Attending: Wagner College - Track & Field
 
Since my arrival, the SCH community has expanded my desire to learn academically, athletically, and socially. It has provided me with the space to do great work and love what I do. Track & Field has taken me to new heights that I never knew would have been possible. The people around me have helped build me up to where I am now and fortified me for where I am going. I stand on the shoulders of giants who have taken me from a freshman who never even thought of participating in track to pursuing it at the collegiate level with no intention of stopping. I am eager to discover what awaits me beyond the blue and gold, and I will take all that I have learned here at SCH with me on my journey forward. To the coaches, trainers, teammates, teachers, mentors, friends, and family that have helped me blaze my own trail, a heartfelt thank you goes out to you all. – Andrew Wood
 
Congratulations to Andrew for receiving this prestigious honor. Andrew has been a steadfast member of the indoor and outdoor track programs over his high school years. His work ethic and success made him a major contributor during meets, and his sportsmanship and poise is consistently noted by opposing coaches and officials. As a captain this winter, Andrew led the team through difficult workouts both inside and outdoors, and he was an excellent mentor to our younger runners and jumpers. Andrew is a quiet leader that is respected by his teammates and coaches for his intensity, tangible results and positive attitude. I wish him all the best as he moves on to compete at Wagner College, and I know he will challenge himself every day to be a better athlete! - Coach Paul Hines – Indoor & Outdoor Track and Field