Three standout Godwin seniors, Tucker Washburn, Julia Mann, and Kylie Jenkins, have been recognized as all-star athletes this season. 

The students must be nominated by coaches, and show excellence with leadership on and off the field. Each of these remarkable athletes participates in two sports.

The VHSL scholarship program was created in 1992 through Richmond Times Dispatch and the Sports Backers, it offers $2500 to the 20 students who are selected out of 140 nominees. 

One of the three all-star athletes, Washburn, said, “The biggest part of the program is building leaders and working with different organizations and programs to build a better active living community in Richmond.” 

Washburn has been playing lacrosse and football since fifth grade. He values his diligence, whether in the classroom or on the field and approaches every opportunity with a sense of appreciation.

On the other hand, Jenkins has played softball her entire life, but field hockey is new for her as she started playing her freshman year. Jenkins has had to work hard her entire high school career whether that be on or off the field. “This just pushes me to work harder,” said Jenkins.

Mann is a mix between both as she started playing field hockey at the beginning of middle school, but only just started playing lacrosse her freshman year. She has played varsity field hockey all 4 years and has been a varsity captain the entire time. The hardest part for Mann is keeping up with the program on top of school. 

Sports have undoubtedly been instrumental in her personal development. “My sports have taught me to always push myself to be the best I can be on and off the field,” said Mann.

These outstanding athletes demonstrate remarkable leadership abilities on the field. Washburn’s involvement in sports has instilled in him the skills to lead and inspire others. Additionally, it has been a welcome outlet for stress relief for him.

“Sports have taught me how to lead others and be a role model for others. It’s also taught me how to deal with adversity and sports have served as a stress reliever for me,” said Washburn.

Playing sports has shown Jenkins that she can achieve more than she ever envisioned, and it has taught her to make the most of every opportunity that arises. However, the most valuable lesson she’s gained from sports is how to excel as a team player. “The best thing that sports have taught me is how to be a teammate,” said Jenkins. 

These three All-Star athletes capture the heart of dedication, leadership, and community involvement that the VHSL Scholarship Program seeks to promote. Their exceptional journeys have not only earned them the “All-Star” title but have also set them on a path toward a brighter future full of chances to give back to their community.