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.
Sam Dietrich ’27 – Boys JV Basketball
Sam has come into the 2025–26 season ready for another stellar performance. From the outset, he has demonstrated tremendous leadership—not only vocally, but also through his performance and consistency. The JV team emphasizes work ethic, communication, and teamwork, and Sam embodies all these qualities. As we head into the heart of the season, the wildcats will rely on Sam’s leadership and steadiness to help ensure our success.
Ryan Hara ’29 – Boys Thirds Basketball
In a big win over Rectory, Ryan led the charge with a game-high 11 points. Hara scored from beyond the arc and showed off some nifty moves to get to the basket and score near the rim, as well. He also showed up on the defensive end and provided great on-ball defense while also securing rebounds to limit Rectory’s possessions.
Charlie Bertke ’31 – Boys Fourths Basketball
Charlie had a wonderful all-around game in the team’s win over K-O last Wednesday. He led the team with 21 points but also had 5 assists and played tough defense. Charlie always comes to practice with energy and enthusiasm for basketball and leads by example. His consistency of effort and positive attitude are laudable.
Avery Desmarais ’29 – Girls JV Basketball
Avery exemplifies what it means to compete with heart and consistency. She plays her hardest every time she steps on the court and has been a reliable leader for the team, consistently scoring in every game. Her enthusiasm is contagious; she shows up ready to play, energized, and focused, setting the tone for her teammates. Whether it’s her work ethic, positive attitude, or ability to perform under pressure, she continues to lead by example and elevates the entire team.
Nina Coffee ’26 – Girls Varsity Hockey
Nina is a four-year defenseman and a vital part of the wildcats’ defensive core. As one of our captains, she provides strong, steady leadership for the team. Nina is poised and makes smart decisions with the puck in all three zones, and her calm, composed presence helps set the tone for our play.
This past week, the team has encouraged Nina to shoot more, which resulted in multiple scoring chances in the win against Berkshire, where she recorded two assists. She also scored the game-winning goal on Friday night in the wildcats’ big win over Loomis, firing a quick, hard shot on net late in the first period. Nina played lockdown defense on the penalty kill and in the final minutes of the game, helping the Wildcats preserve the win. We look forward to Nina’s continued contributions to the wildcats this season.
Acacia Nickeo ’27 – Girls JV Hockey
Acacia recorded her first shutout last week in an 8–0 win over Berkshire School, a moment that reflects her growth and commitment this season. Going into the year, the girls JV hockey team did not have a goalie, and Acacia, who originally signed up as a manager, immediately stepped up to take on that role. She embraced the challenge with dedication and a willingness to learn, pushing through discomfort as she adjusted to the gear and the position. Acacia is selfless, kind, and consistently looks out for her teammates. Her team worked tirelessly to help her earn the shutout because they believe in her and want her to succeed, a testament to the trust and respect she has earned within the group.