Introducing our Athletes of the Week program! Each week, Williston coaches nominate one student-athlete from their team who stood out by demonstrating our core values of purpose, passion, and integrity. These athletes show exceptional dedication, leadership, and sportsmanship, both on and off the field, embodying what it means to be a Williston Wildcat. Read below for more information on each of the Athletes of the Week.
Jackson Ayers ’25- Boys Varsity Cross Country
Jackson had a great start to the 2024 cross-country season with a stellar run in the Brush Invitational at Deerfield on Saturday. Jackson came into the season in phenomenal shape after training hard throughout the summer. As one of the captains on this year’s squad and has been providing good leadership through his excellent work ethic and positive attitude. Jackson supports all his teammates and encourages them to achieve their best. The coaches are excited to watch Jackson continue to improve as the season progresses, and they believe he is going to have a great senior year on the xc course.
Lachlan Maddock ’27 – Boys JV Cross Country
Lachlan is proving to be a great addition to the boys cross-country team. Though new to the sport, Lachlan is a gifted runner with a great attitude. He works hard in practice and pushes himself to improve every day. Lachlan was one of the top JV runners from Williston at the Brush Invitational this past weekend at Deerfield Academy on a very hot day. The coaches are really excited about what Lachlan can achieve as the season progresses and as he gains more experience and knowledge about pacing and racing strategies.
Sepha Schumacher ’26 Girls Cross Country
Sepha Schumacher, a junior on the cross-country team, delivered an impressive personal best at the Brush Invitational at Deerfield Academy this past Saturday, despite facing tough conditions. Her dedication and leadership shine through in every practice, as she consistently pushes herself and her teammates to excel. Sepha’s grit and determination make her a standout member of the team and someone to continue watching as the season progresses.
Alyssa Matricciani ’25- Varsity Field Hockey
This girls varsity field hockey season has started quickly, and Alyssa has risen to the occasion in just two short weeks. When asked to play an entirely new position, that she had limited knowledge of, Alyssa greeted the challenge with a smile; much like she approaches all that she does. Her coaches and teammates have watched Alyssa ask questions, take risks, and embrace the new position. This weekend, in the Cat’s win over St. Mark’s, Alyssa was rock solid, making many stops and feeding the midfielders with ease. She brought poise and positive energy to the whole team which allowed the team to find success as a group. The Wildcats are excited to see all the progress Alyssa will make this year in her senior season!
Dean Ruksnaitis ’26- Varsity Football
Dean had a great game for the Wildcats in their 34-21 win over Deerfield Academy on Saturday. Playing both Right Tackle and Center, Dean helped to lead the way as the Wildcats ran for 213 yards on the ground on just 27 carries, an average of 7.9 yard per carry. In the pass game, Williston didn’t give up one sack and the QB had plenty of time all game long. In addition to his offensive prowess, Dean was also a big presence on the defensive line. His coaches and teammates will continue to rely on him for his strong play and leadership through example as they work through the rest of the season.
Danny Argueta ’25- Boys Varsity Soccer
Danny’s leadership and dynamic offensive play over the first two weeks of the season has helped boys varsity soccer remain competitive in games. Danny scored the opening two goals of the season for the Wildcats against Vermont Academy and Berkshire School. The Guatemala City-native finds ways to create scoring opportunities almost every time he receives the ball. Danny has done a great job of leading a young, talented group of players through the opening games of the season. His team remains united and upbeat as they improve with every passing game. Danny’s teammates are going to need him at his best as they take on Cushing this Wednesday at home and St. Sebastian’s School this weekend.
Alex Landon ’26 – Boys JVA Soccer
In a tough 0-1 loss to Berkshire for the boys JVA soccer team, Alex won many of his one-on-one duels, generated at least one chance entirely on his own, and was pivotal in the team’s positive transition play. His midfield work kept the Wildcats on the front foot in the first half, and helped keep the game within reach in the second. He modeled the kind of front-foot approach that is pivotal for any successful team! His leadership and performance will be a big part of any success the team has this season.
Zoe Melia ’27- Girls Varsity Soccer
Zoe had a great week for the girls varsity soccer team, standing out in both games against Mount St Charles and Miss Porter’s. As a central midfielder she was a part of nearly every play, helping the team create scoring opportunities with her solid first touch, and vision on the field. Zoe leads by example, has an outstanding, no quit attitude and her work ethic is hard to beat! We look forward to seeing Zoe continue to grow as a player and leader and see her impact on the field this season!