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.
Macie Bergmann - William Penn Charter School
Sports: Softball (capt.) / Girls Water Polo
College Attending: Drexel University - Softball
During my time playing for the Inter-Academic League I have greatly evolved as a player and person. Playing in a league that is competitive and supports multi-sport athletes has been essential to my growth as I was given the opportunity to learn on multiple playing fields. How to collaborate and compete, how to win with grace, and how to handle challenges and setbacks are just some of the lessons I will carry with me into my next chapter of competition. Equally, having a supportive and encouraging Athletic Director has also been essential to this growth. Mr. Brooks has wisdom and love for all sports and motivates players to compete at the highest level and have fun while doing so. My coaches have supported me on and off the playing fields and motivated me to become a better teammate and player. While learning the game of water polo throughout my time in high school, I was able to develop a deep respect for the game and learn how to support my teammates; which is an experience I never would have had if I did not play for an Inter-Ac school. Also, having the opportunity to play softball in 8th grade was fundamental to my development as a player. Competing against fierce competition and learning alongside the older players is something I will always be grateful for. – Macie Bergmann
Macie Bergmann is a tremendous young woman, leader, and athlete. Macie exemplifies
leadership in numerous ways. She is the first one to lend a helping hand to anyone, holds you accountable as well as herself, and leads by example. She is wise and mature beyond her years, so when I speak to her, as my captain and leader, it’s like speaking with an assistant coach. Macie Bergmann is a great role model for her peers, community and her coaching staff. I’m honored to have gotten the chance to coach her and she will be forever missed and remembered after she graduates. – Coach Charles Warren -Softball
I have known and coached Macie since she was in 7th grade. She is an outstanding player, and her abilities on the Softball field are well documented. Her defense as a catcher, 3rd baseman and 1st baseman are all of the highest level. Offensively she is a feared and dangerous clutch hitter both for average and power. But what makes Macie special and stand out above others is in those intangible areas. Macie is a natural team leader, both by example and action. She carries herself and plays in a way that is both exemplary and motivating to other players. Macie is an inspiration to individual players, the team and the PC softball program. It is rare for a player to be able to instill the respect and trust to the team and coaches, but Macie has done all that and more. Macie is truly an amazing and mature individual who will be a leader and successful in all her future endeavors. – Coach Doc Mittica - Softball)
Macie exemplifies the true spirit of teamwork. As a member of the water polo team, her impact transcends the scoreboard. She may not be the most skilled player in the pool, but her unwavering support, infectious positivity, and relentless dedication make her a fantastic teammate. Macie’s leadership isn’t measured by goals scored; it is measured by the unity she fosters, the encouragement she provides, and the inspiration she ignites in everyone around her. I know Macie’s true passion can be seen on the softball field where all of these qualities also come through, and she competes at an incredibly high level as an all-league performer. – Coach Brian Hecker - Girls Water Polo
Zach Curtin - William Penn Charter School
Sports: Football / Lacrosse
College Attending: Amherst College - Football
Throughout my time in the Inter-Ac I believe I have developed into the best student-athlete that I can be. With the guidance of my coaches, family, and teachers I have been able to thrive academically and athletically. Under a rigorous academic and athletic schedule, I have been able to practice sportsmanship, leadership, and teamwork. Through the support of my coaching staff, athletic directors, and administration I have been able to experience the best of what the Inter-Ac has to offer. - Zach Curtin
I appreciate all of Zach’s contributions to our school community. Over the past four years he has positively impacted our football program with his athletic talent and leadership. Zach has served as a role model for our younger football players. He is an accomplished student athlete. Our football staff is grateful for the many hours of work Zach has invested in pursuit of both personal and team goals. Everyone in our football program was happy for Zach as he closed out his high school football experience with a win over Germantown Academy, and the recipient of the Geis Trophy. - Coach Tom Coyle -Football
Although this is my first spring with Penn Charter as the head lacrosse coach, Zach’s impact on campus was noticeable as early as the fall. I got to watch Zach play football. The grit and determination that he showed on the football field was incredible. I remember asking someone on the sideline whether he played any sports. Imagine my happiness when they responded that he was also a lacrosse player.
Zach has brought that same intensity to the lacrosse field for the first few weeks of our season. He is a true leader by example, always willing to do the “dirty jobs” in lacrosse, whether it’s scrapping it up on a faceoff wing, or staying on to play defense after an offensive shift. I look forward to seeing his leadership continue to develop this season. We are lucky to have him on our team, and I wish him nothing but success as he moves on to college next fall. - Coach Conor Resch - Lacrosse
Madison Freeman - Springside Chestnut Hill Academy
Sports: Field Hockey (capt.) / Lacrosse (capt.)
College Attending: Villanova University - Lacrosse
I am extremely grateful to have had the experience of playing lacrosse and field hockey for SCH Academy these past four years. Being a part of the Inter-Ac has given me the opportunity to experience countless incredible team memories while building confidence as an individual and as a teammate. I would like to thank SCH for supporting my growth as a leader on and off the field and fostering my role as a student athlete. I will miss all of my coaches, teammates, and friends that have grown to become my family throughout my time at SCH. I couldn’t be more excited to be receiving this award and am thankful for all of the opportunities SCH athletics has given me. Congratulations to all of the other athletes receiving this award and thank you to everyone at SCH who has helped grow into the person I am today. - Madison Freeman
Congratulations to Madison Freeman and all other InterAc League students-athletes. Madison has been a part of the varsity field hockey program since her freshman year and has always been a talented multi-sport athlete that demonstrates selfless leadership. She really can change the atmosphere of a game, especially in stressful situations. She brings such light, positivity and a go-getting attitude that makes everyone around her feel the same. It is hard not to hear Madison Freeman from any part of the field. Her communication and work ethic are clear whenever you see her in practice and in games. She is an amazing team player and has an incredible mindset that will help her succeed on the Villanova lacrosse field. It was an honor to coach Madison. Congratulations! - Coach Emilee Ehret - Field Hockey
It has been an absolute honor and pleasure coaching Madison Freeman throughout her past 4 years on the Varsity Lacrosse team. Madison has made an impact both on and off the field since day one and has been an integral part of the resurgence and success of the girl's lacrosse program. While she is fierce, focused, and tenacious on the field she is the most patient, kind, and compassionate teammate. Her leadership and infectious love for the game reverberated throughout our locker room and brought such incredible joy to her teammates. This locker room presence and spirit have become infused throughout the culture of our team. Myself and our Devils Lacrosse family will miss her dearly, but she will always have superfans cheering her on as she continues her career at Villanova. Congratulations Mado! - Coach Noelle Powell - Lacrosse
Natalie Magnotta – Episcopal Academy
Sports: Soccer (capt.) / Basketball (capt.)
College Attending: Penn State University - Soccer
The environment that EA and the Inter-Ac provides has helped me grow immensely as a player as well as a person. This environment kept me truly loving and enjoying both of the sports I competed in. My experience playing sports at EA has given me memories that I will never forget. This school and league has gifted me with the ability to play against the best competition where I can compete alongside my teammates to win championships. I am forever grateful to EA for my high school sports experience because I have learned and improved so much all while enjoying every second. - Natalie Magnotta
Natalie, a four-year varsity starting centerback and senior captain, has consistently proven herself an invaluable asset to the girls' soccer team. She has extraordinary skill and high tactical intelligence, but what sets her apart is her unwavering composure and reliability in high-pressure games. Winning this award is a well-deserved recognition of Natalie's impact on the soccer program, guiding the team to one of the most successful seasons Episcopal Academy girls' soccer has ever had: Inter-Ac Champions (undefeated), PAISAA Champions, and EA-AIS Rivalry Day Banner. – Coach Andy Fraggos – Soccer
Natalie has been a key player in the girls' basketball program for 4 years. She became a starter as a freshman and became a key defensive player as well as being an aggressive offensive weapon. Natalie offered the flexibility to make numerous contributions to the team on both ends of the court and always made us a better team. As a senior, Natalie was named captain, was leading scorer, & earned 2nd team All-Inter Ac honors. – Coach Chuck Simmonds - Basketball
Maggie Morrissey – Germantown Academy
Sports: Cross Country (capt.)/Swimming/Lacrosse
College Attending: University of Vermont - Lacrosse
Being a three-sport athlete at Germantown Academy has been a great privilege that has allowed me to experience and compete against many talented athletes from across the GA community and the Inter-Ac. I am so fortunate to have had the ability to play in a variety of sports with such skilled and competitive teammates. I am honored to receive the AD Award, as I will forever cherish the memories and apply the lessons learned from competing at GA. - Maggie Morrissey
Maggie is a talented young woman with a caring, friendly nature and positive attitude. She embodies the spirit of a true athlete, balancing hard work with her love for lacrosse and her teammates. It has been an honor coaching her on the lacrosse field. – Coach Diana Shumar - Lacrosse
Maggie's contagious work ethic inspires her teammates to embrace challenges. Leading by example, she shows that with the right mindset, difficult tasks can be conquered. I'm grateful to have been part of Maggie's athletic journey at Germantown Academy. – Coach Diane Neubauer – Cross Country
Lucas Philip – Germantown Academy
Sports: Cross Country (capt.) / Indoor Track & Field / Track & Field
College Attending: University of Pennsylvania
Entering 9th grade, I always thought I’d continue to play soccer and basketball, two sports I love, as my activity credits. However, COVID canceled the seasons, forcing me to think of a new sport to try. After a lot of persuasion from GA teachers and coaches, I ended up choosing distance running on the Spring Track & Field team. Saying this today, I find it funny, because now I look back on how much running cross country and track for GA and in the Inter-Ac has given me, which is a lot. Whether running in my GA racing uniform at the Penn Relays, training tirelessly on family vacations abroad, or simply at practice after school, the memories created alongside my teammates during workouts and easy runs will stay with me for the rest of my life. I’ll miss competing in the Inter-Ac, as I’ve made some really close friends from other teams through our races. The feeling of belonging and shared desire to compete in the league is one of the things that have made my experience running track unforgettable. Looking ahead to college and life after high school, I’ll always be grateful for my family, teachers, coaches, and friends at GA who pushed me to make that decision, and the many others that make me who I am today. – Luke Philip
Luke has been a steady foundation for the track and field program over the years. Representing GA in Cross Country, Winter and Spring Track and Field, he gets better as each season progress. When we hit the championship phase of each season, Luke steps up and contributes big for our teams. We are fortunate to have a consistent competitor and leader in all three of our programs. – Coach Steve Moll – Track & Field
Luke has been such a pleasure to coach. His interest in his goals, his willingness to commit himself to the training life, and his natural gifts as a leader all helped him to leave his mark on our program. Younger runners found in Luke an open and encouraging captain, and he went out of his way to connect with each member of his team in each season. Luke faced his share of setbacks as an athlete, but his resilience and positivity in these moments are a testament to his exemplary character as a young man. – Coach Peter Jennings – Cross Country
Ross Prince - Springside Chestnut Hill Academy
Sports: Soccer / Lacrosse (capt.)
College Attending: Georgetown University - Lacrosse
I am extremely grateful for everything Springside Chestnut Hill Academy has offered me to become the best version of myself. From the coaches, facilities, competition, and teammates that will last a lifetime, I have been able to develop into the athlete and person I am today. I will never forget playing in my first Inter-Ac competition against Penn Charter, the atmosphere was unmatched. The high level of talent, energy, competitiveness, and sportsmanship reflects why the Inter-Ac is one of the best leagues in the country across all sports. Thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout my journey and go Devils! - Ross Prince
Ross was only a member of the Boys' Soccer program for one year, although seeing him interact with his teammates and the coaching staff would suggest that he had been playing with his fellow seniors for many, many years. His ability to both ingratiate himself amongst a team and bring people together in pursuit of a common goal is partly why I suspect Ross is being honored with the Inter-Ac Athletic Directors' award. He is an individual who inspires others to be better versions of themselves, not only through modeling such motivation and discipline in his own athletic goals, but also by building up his teammates around him (whether they are peers or underclassmen) so they can begin to recognize the potential they see in themselves. As a coach, what more can I ask for from a student athlete? Not surprisingly, Ross's sportsmanship exudes many of these same admirable characteristics: always up for a challenge against an opponent while showing them the respect deserved of high level competition. Even though his time with the program was brief, Ross's influence will be felt for many years to come... and for good reason. – Coach Brian Zalasky - Soccer
Ross has been a three- year starter for SCH varsity lacrosse, a two-year captain, and will go down as one of the best lacrosse players ever at SCH. That being said, he is a better person than he is a player. He truly cares more about the team and his teammates' success over his own. Congrats, Ross!! You are just getting started. - Coach Brian Dougherty - Lacrosse
Connor Scanlan – The Haverford School
Sports: Football / Basketball / Baseball
College Attending - Fairfield University - Baseball
I am honored to represent The Haverford School as the Inter-Ac AD award winner.
Playing in the Inter Ac the last four years has helped me not only become a better player but also most importantly it has helped me become a better leader and teammate because of the challenging competition playing some of the best athletes around.
Haverford has been an amazing experience for me on and off the field/court. Including the high academics, competitive sports, and the friendships made. But nothing says Haverford sports more than looking up into the stands while playing a game and seeing and hearing your “brotherhood” student section cheering. It is truly something I will never forget.
I am forever grateful for all my coaches, teammates, teachers/faculty, and friends at Haverford for pushing me athletically, academically, and helping me become the person I am today. – Connor Scanlan
Connor has been a tremendous part of the basketball program for four years. He has improved each season and as a senior was a leader on and off the court for the Fords! Connor was a cerebral player who was able to out work and out-think people on the court. He had a knack for helping his team in so many ways whether it was taking a charge, talking on defense, making the extra pass or simply leading from the bench! – Coach Bernie Rogers - Basketball
Connor continued to push his limits as an athlete this year. Deciding to play football his senior year has made him even a tougher competitor this Spring. He plays with a high athletic IQ and utilizes his skills while making an impact for our squad as a senior leader. – Coach Bob Castell - Baseball
For Connor, only playing one year of high school football was courageous, he was coachable and maximized his talents. He was cool, calm and had a can-do attitude. It was great to have Connor as a part of the program. - Brian Martin - Football
Maeve Seeger - Academy of Notre Dame
Sports: Field Hockey (capt. ) / Lacrosse (capt.)
College Attending: Boston College - Field Hockey
Over the past four years, I have loved playing in the Inter-Ac. It is a very competitive league made up of highly skilled student athletes. The longstanding rivalry between schools helps create stronger team spirit and makes winning that much more fun. In college I am looking forward to playing at the next level, improving my skills, and building new relationships with teammates and coaches. I’m incredibly thankful for everything that Notre Dame and competing in the Inter-Ac has given me. I will forever look back on the amazing memories I have made in both field hockey and lacrosse. – Meave Seeger
Maeve has been the backbone of our team, her love for her teammates and relentless spirit embody the true essence of Notre Dame's sisterhood and pride. She stands as a pillar of support and dedication, having devoted countless hours to the field hockey program. Maeve was a pivotal part of such a successful season, showcasing her leadership and commitment at every practice and game. We thank her for her determination, resilience, and the inspiration she brings to us all. – Coach Brand Ritz - Field Hockey
Maeve is a natural leader on and off thew field. She is a solid and reliable and will be greatly missed next year. - Coach Anna McNevin – Lacrosse
Ennis Udo - Malvern Prep
Sports: Football / Basketball / Lacrosse
College Attending: Brown University - Lacrosse
Malvern has shaped me into the student, athlete, and person that I am today and for that I’m forever grateful. Malvern provided me with teachers and coaches that pushed me to succeed and an opportunity to grow closer to God and these are things I will bring with me for life. – Ennis Udo
Ennis has the rare combination of being a high level athlete and the ultimate team player. His work ethic is second to none. Ennis is the best representation of a Malvern Prep Student Athlete that we have had in my time at Malvern. - Dave Gueriera - Football
Ennis is the clear leader of his class. As a varsity lacrosse member since his freshman year, Ennis has grown into a phenomenal player. Ennis has also separated himself off the field and in the classroom. He sets the gold standard of what we look for in a Malvern Prep student. A quiet and humble leader. His teammates and classmates gravitate to his energy. Ennis has always given his absolute best effort, and he will always be someone our staff points to on how to do things the right way! I thoroughly enjoyed coaching Ennis for his time at Malvern, and I know he will succeed in whatever he chooses to pursue in the future. - Matt Mackrides - Lacrosse
Ennis was a joy to coach - I really admired his leadership, work ethic and the example he set for our younger players. What also stood out to me was his humility and selflessness, especially given his outstanding success and accomplishments in his four years on our campus. He truly only cared only about the success of the team, not about his minutes played or points scored. He consistently gave his all for his brothers. I cherished my year coaching him. - Paul Romanczuk - Basketball
Allie Weiser - The Baldwin School
Sports: Tennis / Basketball (capt.) / Softball (capt.)
College Attending: Undecided
I am honored to be Baldwin's recipient of the Inter-Academic League Athletic Director’s Award. Throughout my time at Baldwin, athletics has been crucial to my experience. I am so glad to have played on such competitive teams and made long-lasting friendships. Thank you to all my coaches and teammates who have made my high school experience so special. Congratulations to all the other award recipients. - Allie Weiser
What blatantly stands out about Allie is her positive and fun energy combined with a passion to compete. Her talent as an athlete and tennis player led by her remarkable energy for competition, regardless of circumstances, fueled the chemistry and success of Baldwin’s tennis team this season. - Coach Tracy Tooke - Tennis
Allie is undeniably the heart and soul of our basketball team. Her presence on the court and on our team goes far beyond talent and stats, which she has. Allie’s constant positive energy and encouragement helps her teammates feel comfortable on the floor in any situation. And her competitiveness and work ethic is a model for all. I have never seen Allie back down or lose her head in frustration when she is on the court. She gives everything she has whether it is in her first minutes of the game, or her last. And she is constantly thinking about how she can improve and how to pull her team together to be successful, and she does it with a smile. Allie is as unselfish, thoughtful, encouraging, and positively enthusiastic off the court as she is on. It has been an absolute pleasure to coach her and have her on our team. - Coach Betsy Cast - Basketball
Allie, our senior softball captain, is more than just a player: she’s the soul of our team. With boundless energy and a contagious spirit, she elevates every inning she plays. Umpires and opponents have approached me to comment on not just her abilities, but also the leadership and fun she exudes. Her athletic prowess is undeniable, but Allie’s leadership extends far beyond it. She shines as she guides her younger teammates with the perfect blend of toughness and humor. Other students at Baldwin want to play with Allie Weiser. From calling pitches behind the plate to hyping up the entire bus to an away game, Allie’s impact is immeasurable. There is not enough space or time to describe all she has provided to Baldwin’s Varsity softball team. The thought of stepping onto the field without her next year is daunting, but each of us, players and coaches included, are better for knowing her. Everyone could use an Allie on their team. - Coach Rita Laychock - Softball
Michael Woolery – Episcopal Academy
Sports: Cross Country (capt.) / Indoor Track & Field (capt.) / Track & Field (capt.)
College Attending: Penn State University – Track & Field
I’ve been honored to be able to compete as an athlete for Episcopal throughout my high school career. My coaches and trainers have supported me and helped me grow as an athlete so much. It’s been great to have such invested people who want to see me succeed. Over the course of my time at EA as an athlete I’ve become more confident on the track and I have accomplished things I never thought I could. Competing for EA has been extremely memorable. - Michael Woolery
Michael is one of the most, if not the most, decorated runners EA has ever had.
In indoor track, he's led our team to a 2nd-place finish at states and then back-to-back state championships. He is a PA indoor 800m champion and a 4x800m relay state champion. He also is a Distance Medley Relay National Champion. He owns 5 indoor school records: 800m, Mile, 4x400m, 4x800m, and Distance Medley Relay.
With Outdoor track, he is equally as accomplished. He's led our team to 2 Inter-Ac Championships, 2 PAISAA Championships, and 2 Delco Championships. He owns our school records in the 800m and the 1600m. He also won 2 Inter-ac 4x400m championships at the Penn Relays. He is a 2-time PAISAA champ in the 1600 and also a PAISAA champ in the 800. At the Inter-Ac championship in 2022 and at the Delco championship in 2023, Michael won all three races of the 1600, 800, and 3200. That's an incredibly challenging triple to accomplish.
Michael is a special talent, but he's also a terrific competitor. He loves, especially, to be behind in a race and then go chase after someone. This was evident at this winter's state championship. He ran the anchor leg of our 4x800 and in the 4x400. In both races, he got the baton well behind of the competition yet was able to chase them down for victories. He ran a 1:52 anchor leg in the 4x8 and a 48.6 second anchor leg in the 4x4. It doesn't always shine through the stat sheets but Michael Woolery is the most exciting and talented closer we've ever had. – Coach Zach Richards – Track & Field
Michael is a stronger track athlete compared to cross country, but he is still a very good cross country runner. He missed most of his senior cross country season, but in his junior year Michael was MVP of the Inter-Ac winning the championship race in a time of 16:27.5. He ran a 15:29 at the Paul Short Invitational his junior year, which was a personal best time. He was a big part of our overall success last year finishing second for our team at the Nike regionals and the Nike Nationals. In track, any good team needs a great closer. You cannot just be fast, you have to want to be the anchor. You need to want the pressure and Michael always wants to anchor. He has had incredible success in that position helping us win the 4x800 at the Millrose games his junior year, the DMR Nike national championship his junior year and the 4x800 at the PA state championships his senior year. We will really miss his leadership and his ability to close out a race, but the thing we will miss the most about Michael is the pure joy he brings to practice and races every day. This joy is contagious and his teammates feed off his positive energy. – Coach Jim Farrell – Cross Country
Ella Zwilling - The Agnes Irwin School
Sports: Volleyball (capt.) / Indoor Track (capt.) / Outdoor Track (capt.)
College Attending: Undecided
My time playing sports for Agnes Irwin has given me some of my best friends, taught me so many lessons, and given me wonderful memories that I will hold onto forever. Agnes Irwin athletics will always hold a special place in my heart and I could not have asked for a better experience. I have loved playing in the Inter-Ac because of the balance of competitiveness and supportiveness throughout the league. I am so grateful to have had such amazing coaches that always pushed me to be the best version of myself on and off the court. I want to thank Coach Sarah, Coach Sherbondy, Coach Pat, Coach John, and all my other coaches for all that they have done for me these past four years. Congratulations to all the other recipients! - Ella Zwilling
Ella has been an AIS Varsity Volleyball player for all 4 years in the Upper School and was co-captain as a Junior and Senior. She has a quiet, reserved leadership style on and off the court but has an extremely perceptive eye that brings leading from the back of the court to the forefront. Her observational insights and gentle kinship enables her to connect with her teammates on a peer to peer level and inspires them to work harder together. On the court, Ella is one of the most dynamic, hardworking and fierce players on the court. Best exemplified by 1000 career digs, her presence can be felt whenever she steps on the court and everyone knows she will stop at nothing to keep the ball from hitting the floor. Ella’s strategic mindset and leading by example reminds her team if they work hard and work together they can accomplish anything. – Coach Sarah Lawrence -Volleyball
Ella demonstrates leadership on and off the field. She displays good sportsmanship, always listens to coaches, and is a reliable and consistent competitor in training and in meets. She is a dependable teammate who encourages other athletes to do their best and her work ethic and contribution is truly remarkable. – Coach Pat Williams - Track