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.
 
Sean Brett - Springside Chestnut Hill Academy?
Sports: Football © / Wrestling ©
College Attending: West Chester University - Club Wrestling
 
I am beyond grateful for the opportunities provided by Springside Chestnut Hill Academy and the Inter-Academic Athletic League. The relationships I’ve built, not only in the SCH community but throughout the entire league, will last a lifetime. I cannot thank my parents, family, coaches, teachers, and teammates enough for shaping me into the man I am today. I will never forget the mixture of fear yet thrill I felt when competing against Malvern Prep in football as a tiny freshman. From that moment to earning my 100th win in wrestling, it’s the sense of community inside the league that has made every milestone so meaningful. The passion, sportsmanship, and talent displayed within our league truly makes it one of the best in the country. It is an honor to be acknowledged with such great names and distinguished individuals as an Inter-Ac AD award winner. Go Devils! Thank you. - Sean Brett
 
As a football player, Sean is proof that grit, determination, and toughness can foster personal and team success in the face of tremendous odds. You see, Sean is about as undersized as they come as a football player. He started a game as a 9th grader against Malvern Prep at outside linebacker at no more than 125 pounds dripping wet and never got above 160 as a senior. He routinely gave up over 100 pounds to opponents trying to block him. However, this never intimidated him nor would he ever back down. This mindset inspired his teammates and gained him the respect of everyone in our football program. Not surprisingly, Sean also got banged up a lot during games but refused to let this keep him off the field. This past season as a senior he had a painful injury that would have kept most players on the sidelines, but he loved the game and his teammates too much to let them down. Off the field Sean is a well rounded, respectful, and kindhearted person. As an Inter-Ac coach of three decades, I can confidently say that Sean is the epitome of an Inter-Ac student athlete. For all of these reasons and more, he was an exemplary team captain and a pleasure to have in our program. He will be missed but left an amazing legacy. - Rick Knox, Football
 
From day one, as an 8th grader, Sean displayed the leadership qualities, courage, and love of competition that would go on to define his career as a Blue Devil wrestler. Sean always set the bar high for his teammates in regards to his preparation, often pulling double duty in the summer, going to long football practices in the hot sun then immediately walking across campus to follow it up with another grueling wrestling workout. His commitment and dedication led to great success on the mat, as Sean was a 3 time National Prep qualifier and 4 time PAISWT place winner. His 125 wins puts him fourth all time in school history. Wins aside, Sean will be remembered by both teammates and opponents for the toughness, tenacity, and will to win that he brought every time he stepped on the mat. - Joe Aversa, Wrestling

Grace Connelly - The Agnes Irwin School?
Sports: Field Hockey / Basketball © / Lacrosse
College Attending: Queens University of Charlotte - Lacrosse
 
I am honored to be recognized as Agnes Irwin's recipient of the Inter-Ac Athletic Director Award. To me, competing in the Inter-Ac means dedication. Each team, no matter the season, brings a
high level of competition that changes every year. Competition in the Inter-Ac has helped deepen my sense of what it truly means to be a dedicated athlete. One thing I will miss the most about competing for Agnes Irwin is the rivalry between Inter-Ac schools. There is no better feeling than winning a game against your rival, especially when both teams are giving 100 percent. I want to thank my coaches, my family and my teammates for always supporting me.? - Grace Connelly
 
Grace embodies commitment and dedication to her teams and school through her consistent hard work and willingness to put in the time and effort required for success.  Her sportsmanship shines through in every game and practice, demonstrating respect for opponents, officials, and teammates alike. She leads by example, and motivates her teammates, helping them to push beyond their limits. Grace’s leadership isn't just about leading from the front but fostering a sense of unity and purpose within the team. - Nicole Gerdes, Field Hockey
 
From day one of practice, Grace has embodied the true spirit of our team. She is always positive and has a smile on her face. She is a role model for her teammates. Grace’s unwavering support for her teammates and her dedication have laid the foundation for our team's success. - Joseph McClain, Basketball
 
Grace is an exemplary teammate whose tireless work ethic and endless enthusiasm positively influence our team. She is a force defensively and has grown into a fantastic one on one defender and picks up any ground ball that hits the turf. Grace will be greatly missed next season. - Lauren Wray, Lacrosse
 
Alexander Dardarian - The Haverford School?
Sports: Cross Country © / Indoor Track & Field © / Outdoor Track & Field ©
College Attending: University of Illinois
 
Entering 9th grade, I was unsure what sport I would fit into. Luckily, I landed upon cross-country, which later brought me to distance track. The experiences, friends, and values I have gained from running for Haverford and the Inter-Ac are ones I hope to bring with me into everything I do. Memories formed during meets, long-runs, hard practices, and grueling - but beneficial - core will remain engrained in my mind forever. I am thankful to my coaches, Coach Long and Coach Hawkins, for all the effort they put into making me the best young man I could be, on and off the track. I also want to thank my family for supporting me throughout my track endeavors. Finally, I want to thank my brothers from Haverford and every athlete in the Inter-Ac who pushed me to work hard every day. - Alexander Dardarian
 
Over his four years in the cross-country program, Alex has embodied the very qualities that we hope to instill in our athletes.  He is talented, hard-working, dedicated, and a true leader who was not afraid to hold his teammates - friends and strangers alike - to his own high standards. - Brian Long, Cross Country
 
Alex Dardarian is a name that will be remembered in Haverford sports, not just for his athletic ability, but for his consistent demonstration of Haverford's virtues both inside and outside of school. In his role as captain of the winter & spring track team from his sophomore to senior year, Alex has earned the respect and admiration of his coaches and teammates alike. He tutors and mentors student athletes in his free time at the school, and also honors his Armenian heritage through volunteerism and working with youth in his community. His good character, work ethic, humility, and commitment to the collective allows him to elicit the best from everyone in his purview. Alex rises to any task that is asked of him, and completes it with rigor. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this prestigious award, and I am honored to have been a part of his development as a young man and as an athlete, as he has been a part of my success as Haverford's Director of Track and Field. - James Hawkins, Track & Field
 
Nolan Duffy: William Penn Charter School
Sports Played: Football © / Squash © / Lacrosse ©
College Attending: University of Texas
 
As a three sport varsity captain in the Inter-Ac, I am honored to be presented the AD Award. I am beyond grateful for all Inter-Ac sports and especially grateful for Penn Charter athletics as it instilled discipline, teamwork, and resilience which has ultimately shaped me into the person I am today. Each sport has challenged me in ways I never expected. Each practice, game, and season has taught me lessons that go far beyond athletics. The lessons that come with struggle and adversity that my team and I have faced, ultimately have made my experience that much memorable. – Nolan Duffy
 
In a time of specialization, it is rare to see a senior male student make such a profound impact on three varsity sports programs. Nolan influenced the culture of each team he played on through fierce competitiveness, relentless pursuit of personal and team goals, and served as a model for effective leadership. The football staff is especially grateful for the many hours that Nolan has invested into our program. A great example of somebody who puts "we" before "me," Nolan has been a pleasure to coach in all three phases of football. His athletic prowess, physicality, and love for learning the game will be sorely missed, and all of our athletes will be better off for having played alongside him in his time here. - Colin Brown, Football
 
Nolan is the kind of athlete every coach hopes to have—hardworking, selfless, and fully committed to his teammates. Despite only playing squash during the winter season, he reached an impressive level, a testament to the athleticism he developed through his other sports. His speed, strength, and agility translated seamlessly to the court, proving the value of being a multi-sport athlete in an era where specialization is increasingly common. His leadership, work ethic, and sportsmanship set the tone for our team, and his impact on our program and school community will be felt for years to come and this recognition is a testament to the outstanding leader and competitor he is. - Peter Lubowitz, Squash
 
In my two years of knowing Nolan Duffy, it has been an honor to get him to know him both on the playing field and in the schoolhouse. In my role as a math teacher, getting to see Nolan Inter-Ac with his teachers and peers in a thoughtful and constructive manner has been truly tremendous. If you asked anybody at Penn Charter, he is an excellent student who excels as an individual, but can also "call in" his peers and help them to reach their greatest potential. This year especially, as one of our senior leaders, that trait is amplified. Nolan is an excellent 1 on 1 defender, but also has a team mentality that helps him to draw the best out of his teammates, helping us to be one unit. I look forward to seeing how Nolan can lift us this coming season, and am excited to see him continue to grow in college. - Conor Resch, Lacrosse

Sophia Hall - Academy of Notre Dame?
Sports Played: Soccer © / Basketball © / Lacrosse
College Attending: University of Delaware - Soccer
 
Over the last four years, I have enjoyed my time playing in the inter Ac. It's a highly competitive league filled with talented student-athletes. The rivalries between schools create strong team spirit and make winning even more rewarding. As I transition to college, I'm excited about the opportunity to play at a higher level, enhance my skills, and make new friendships with teammates and coaches. I'm extremely grateful for all the Notre Dame and my experiences in the Inter-Ac have provided me. I will always cherish the incredible memories I've created within all the sports I have played. - Sophia Hall
 
Sophia Hall was an outstanding leader and captain of the Basketball team.  Her relentless drive and great defense led us to an undefeated season in the Inter-Ac and a big reason for us capturing the league Championship, ND's first outright title in over 30 years.  She is an inspiration to her teammates, a wonderful representative of the school and her family.  Sophia plays the game the right way, she is unselfish, and makes her teammates better.  Just a treat to coach her and she will be missed next year. - Terry Mancini, Basketball
 
As a freshman, Sophie made a big impact on the Notre Dame soccer program and was a major factor in the team's success, leading them to the PAISAA final in 2021. ?She continued to be a big influence on the program, as was the 1st choice goalkeeper in all 4 years, captaining the team in her senior year. She made the All-league Inter-Ac team in all four years, as well as being selected to the All Mainline and All Delco teams every season too. Her energy and enthusiasm have been infectious and her will to win have all led to the team’s vast improvement with her between the posts these past four years. She will be missed but we wish her all the best as she continues her soccer career at the University of Delaware. – Ben Davey, Associate Director of Athletics
 
Soph came into lacrosse as a junior.  Her hard work, dedication, and positive attitude immediately impacted the team.  She was an all-around athlete, knowing her strengths and weaknesses and using them to make the team successful.  Everyone would be lucky to coach a Soph in their coaching career. - Anna McNevin, Lacrosse
 
Joachim (YaYa) Johnson - Episcopal Academy
Sports Played: Indoor Track & Field © / Outdoor Track & Field ©
College Attending: Harvard University – Track & Field
 
My six years at Episcopal have given me friends, teachers, and memories I will look back on and cherish for years to come as I prepare for the road ahead. – YaYa Johnson
 
Joachim "Yaya" Johnson is an unbelievable athlete, student, and person. He trains incredibly hard and has really evolved into a true student of the sport. He is constantly analyzing film, studying articles about jumping, and watching countless hours of coaching videos. Yaya was not always a track athlete. He, aligned with our school philosophy of multi-sport athletics, and tried track during his freshman year after his winter basketball season. He quickly learned that this risk of trying something different led to a new passion for him. From there, he put in the work and developed into the best jumper in the state of Pennsylvania and one of the best in the entire country. It's been amazing to see his growth and his development. All of his effort has afforded him a fantastic opportunity to continue his academic and athletic careers at Harvard University next fall. - Zach Richards, Winter and Spring Track & Field
 
Jolie Kaoma - Springside Chestnut Hill Academy
Sports Played: Soccer / Indoor Track & Field © / Outdoor Track & Field ©
College Attending: Loyola University Maryland - Track & Field
 
The past four years of playing in the Inter-Ac has been an unforgettable experience that has taught me so much about how important leadership and perseverance are.  Throughout my time at SCH, I've developed into a more confident player and achieved many of my goals with the help of my teammates and the encouraging environment SCH has created.  Thank you to my coaches and teammates who have made my experience as a student athlete so special. - Jolie Kaoma
 
Jolie Kaoma is an outstanding multisport student athlete! She is a hard worker, a role model, and a competitor. She is a natural leader; respected by her teammates and coaches. She works well with her senior classmates and takes time to support our 9^th grade athletes. I will never forget Jolie’s kindness toward me when I became the new head coach at SCH during her junior year. She has been a shining example of the culture we are creating. Jolie’s accomplishments on the track and off the track have helped set the bar high for our future team captains. It is easy to see why Jolie was accepted to Loyola University to run for their track team! Great job Jolie – Congratulations! - Sal Scarafone, Track & Field, Cross Country
 
From Jolie’s freshman year to her junior year I had the pleasure of watching her grow as a player.  From a shy timid kid as a freshman to her junior year I watched her confidence grow.  Jolie always gave 100 percent in games and practices and her speed and fitness on the backline was a huge reason for the success of the team.  Jolie had a team first mentality and would play any position I asked to benefit the team. - Maria Kosmin, Former Soccer Coach
 
Jessica Kolecki - Germantown Academy
Sports Played: Soccer © / Basketball ©
College Attending: Clemson University
 
I love athletics because it's taught me the importance of resilience. What hurts today only makes you stronger tomorrow.  Competing in the inter-ac means more than just playing a couple of games. Every competition is fueled by competitive rivalries and rich history. I'm grateful for my time at Germantown Academy and getting to be a part of such an amazing legacy. - Jessica Kolecki 
 
It is hard to put into words what Jess Kolecki has meant to the GA girls' basketball program.  A two-time All League selection, starting point guard, captain, and playmaker, Jess did it all for us. She was the floor general and the glue to our success.  She helped lead our team to a 24-6 record and an Inter-Ac Championship her junior year and a 21-6 record in her final season as a Patriot.  Jess was one of the all time great point guards to play at GA, and one of the most mature, selfless, and inspiring leaders I have coached in 20 years.  This is a well deserving honor for Jess Kolecki. - Lauren Power, Basketball
 
Jess is the consummate team player, always willing to put the good of the collective ahead of her own.  As a soccer player, this year she shifted to a more defensive position in order to bring steadiness to a young back line.  While it was a new role for her – and a new athletic challenge – she accepted it with her typical grace and enthusiasm.  Leading by example, she set a tremendous tone for our younger player. - Chris Nelson, Soccer
 
Charley Landow – Baldwin School
Sports Played: Volleyball / Field Hockey / Indoor Track & Field / Softball
College Attending: Babson College - Softball
 
I am honored to be Baldwin's recipient of the Inter-Academic League Athletic Director’s Award. Baldwin Athletics has given me some of my best friends and memories I will hold onto forever. Our athletics will always have a special place in my heart and I can't wait to come back and support our teams. Thank you to my coaches and teammates who have made my high school sports experience special. Congratulations to all the other award recipients. - Charley Landow
 
Charly is a great teammate who brought a fun and competitive spirit to the Baldwin Field Hockey team. Despite picking up field hockey later in her athletic career, she quickly learned the game and made a significant impact as a senior starter and charismatic leader. Charly's drive and positive energy made her a fierce competitor and a respected teammate. - Danica Deckard, Field Hockey
 
Charly Landow has been a dedicated member of Baldwin's Indoor Track team since her freshman year. She consistently leads by example, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to every workout and never settling for less than her best effort. Over the years, she has shown remarkable growth, and I am incredibly proud of the athlete she has become.  Charly has stepped up whenever the team needed her, competing in events ranging from sprints all the way up to the 800m. However, she truly found her stride when she discovered a passion for shot put. While many athletes shift their focus exclusively to field events after finding their niche, Charly remained fully committed to the track, completing every workout with dedication and without complaint.  Beyond her athletic contributions, Charly's presence brought energy and positivity to the team. Her enthusiasm, laughter, and camaraderie created a supportive and uplifting environment for her teammates. She will be deeply missed, but we are all excited to see her continue her athletic journey at Babson College next year. - Kate Leibrand, Indoor Track
 
Charly’s sport is softball through and through. Her dedication to her mechanics and softball IQ is evident in every game. From countless diving plays to clutch hits, she has poured her heart and soul into this team and this sport. Charly’s greatest contributions, however, are not measured in numbers or statistics. I have seen her play through injuries, leave one practice only to head straight to another, and ask for extra ground balls until she’s satisfied with her play. She works tirelessly, cares deeply, and is committed to being her best while giving her all for her teammates. Most importantly, despite softball being “her sport,” Charly welcomes everyone. The Baldwin softball team is filled with players of varying experience, and she makes each one feel like softball is their sport too. As an elite player who can compete with anyone, she also ensures those around her feel valued, supported, and truly part of the team. Anyone who has ever played with Charly is lucky, and her future teammates at Babson College are lucky too. - Rita Laychock, Softball
 
Zoë Page - William Penn Charter School
Sports Played: Water Polo © / Swimming & Diving © / Crew ©
College Attending: Drexel University - Crew
 
I am extremely grateful to have had all four years of my high school athletic career at Penn Charter and within the Inter-Ac. The Inter-Ac’s emphasis on sportsmanship and comradery,  coupled with the Quaker principles instilled through Penn Charter’s athletic programs, have curated an environment where I have developed not just as an athlete but as an individual. 
Participating within the Inter-Ac has been an amazing experience that has equipped not only me but also numerous others with the skills and tools necessary to push themselves to maximize their potential in every facet of life. All in all, though it is an honor to be a recipient of the AD Award, receiving it would not have been possible without the immense support of my coaches, family, friends, and teammates, and for that, I am forever grateful to my Penn Charter Community. - Zoë Page
 
Zoë’s journey at Penn Charter has been nothing short of extraordinary. A standout in water polo, swimming, and crew, she has not only achieved success in the pool and on the water but has also left an indelible mark on every team she’s been a part of. Her competitive fire is undeniable, yet it is matched by an infectious positivity that elevates those around her. Having had the privilege of watching Zoë grow as a student, athlete, and leader since sixth grade, I can say with certainty that she embodies everything Penn Charter stands for—excellence, sportsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to her community. Her smile and charismatic personality can light up any room, but once the competition begins, she’s a force to be reckoned with. I can't wait to see Zoë continue to grow and achieve excellence as she moves on to Drexel to be part of the crew team. Congratulations, Zoë, on this well-deserved honor! - Brian Hecker, Water Polo
 
I have coached Zoë Page since 6th grade. Zoë is a phenomenal human, friend, teammate, and student-athlete. Zoëhas grown into a tremendous leader and brings a wonderful combination of leadership, fun and hard work to the pool deck. During all four years on both the Water Polo and Swimming & Diving teams she has demonstrated that she is someone that her peers and her coaching staff can count on. She has an insanely sneaky shot from the outside in polo; during swim season she motivates her teammates with her competitiveness, power, and speed in both the pool and weightroom. I have truly enjoyed coaching Zoë and watching her grow up. Of course we will miss her athletic abilities, but even more so her passion and her laugh will be missed and remembered after she graduates. - Crystal Keelan, Swimming & Diving
 
Zoë is a truly standout athlete. She is dedicated, focused and holds herself to a high level of excellence. She is competitive, but in a way that makes everyone around her work harder too. I remember speaking with her early in her rowing career, and she asked me how she would know if she could compete at the next level. I gave her some metrics and measuring points that would be important for her to hit if she was looking to pursue collegiate rowing; she proceeded to systematically chip away at each one in her dogged persistence toward her goal. Though many well-deserved accolades and accomplishments have stacked up over her high school career, Zoë remains humble and focused on what she can do to get even stronger. Her serious approach to athletics and academics can sometimes belie her fun-loving, playful side; she brings joy to her pursuits as well as determination. Congratulations Zoë - it has been an honor to be your coach and to bear witness to your success. Can't wait to see what the future brings! - Katherine York, Crew
 
Andrew Pellicciotta - Malvern Preparatory School
Sports Played: Football © / Baseball
College Attending: Duke University - Football
 
Malvern Prep has given me the opportunity and resources needed for me to grow on the field and as an individual. All of the coaches on both the football and baseball staff showed constant support and were always sources of motivation for my teammates and I. I am forever grateful for my experience with Malvern Athletics. - Andrew Pellicciotta 

Greatness isn’t just about talent; it’s about character. He had both, making him one of the best I’ve coached at Malvern. You don’t just remember players for their skill, but for their impact on and off the field. He left a legacy of both excellence and humility at Malvern. - Dave Gueriera, Football
 
I’ve been very lucky to coach some outstanding young men in my time here, but I’d be hard pressed to find another athlete that is the living epitome of what we hope our players can be on and off the field more than Andrew Pellicciotta.  Juice is not only a phenomenal athlete, but he’s also one of the most outstanding people I’ve ever had the pleasure to not only coach but be around.  He inspires others with his skill, work ethic, character, and toughness daily. The impact he will leave behind on our program and this school will be everlasting,  and I’m so proud of the competitor, leader, and person he is. – Fredy Hilliard, Baseball
 
AJ Towsen – Germantown Academy
Sports Played: Football © / Basketball ©
College Attending: Stonehill College - Football
 
I love athletics because it pushes you to be better every day and helps me build life habits. Competing in the Inter-Ac was intense; every game felt like a playoff game. The Inter-Ac pushed our teams and set the stage to prove something to the greater area. - AJ Towsen
 
AJ was a joy to coach throughout his time at Germantown Academy. For the basketball program, he was a three-year captain and four-year Varsity letter winner. Even though he was injured for the majority of his senior year, he still had a tremendous impact because of his energy, enthusiasm, and ability to inspire others. The program was better because AJ was in it. He is leaving a wonderful legacy at GA as a competitive, multi-sport student-athlete and we look forward to rooting him on at Stonehill this fall. - Matt Dolan, Basketball
 
AJ is the best receiver in GA football history. Humble, calm, and confident AJ was a joy to coach on and off the field. - Kyle Donahue, Football
 
Carter Yearley - Episcopal Academy
Sports Played: Tennis © / Golf © 
College Attending: Clemson University
 
Being a part of the EA community for the past 13 years has been nothing short of transformative; it's the place that has shaped me into the athlete and person that I am today and I am forever grateful that I attended this school. EA has given me more than an education-its given me forever friends and a foundation that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. – Carter Yearley
 
As captain for two years, Carter is the epitome of a generous, seasoned, leader. She provides support for her teammates by giving them playing tips appropriate to their skill level and Inter-Acting with each player, regardless of their skill level, respectfully and encouragingly. She is a four year letter winner  who has been critical to our success all four years. She is a fierce competitor. When on the course, Carter is focused and plays hard to win. At the same time, she is welcoming and supportive to her opponent.  She also engages with the coaching staff respectfully and honestly. When her ideas differ from ours, she states her case and in return listens to our thoughts. It is always a logical, well thought out exchange. Carter's absence will be felt next year. - Roberta Howlin, Golf
 
Amazing, record breaking career at EA! Most wins ever in Episcopal Academy tennis history speaks to her longevity, talent and commitment. Captain this year of a very new and inexperienced  team and always put the team before individual accolades. - Whit Powell, Tennis