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.
Richard Zhang ’27 – Boys JV Basketball
Richard Zhang brings leadership and a stabilizing influence to the JV Boys’ basketball team. In practice, he sets the tone. In games, Richard’s level-headed play is invaluable, especially when set plays break down and the unexpected happens. In a lopsided game against MacDuffie on Saturday, Richard stayed calm and helped his teammates learn how to improve as a team in the middle of a tough loss. He is a helpful teammate and a solid team leader who makes his teammates better basketball players.
Kiara Perez ’27 – Girls Varsity Basketball
Despite feeling under the weather Kiara helped lead the Wildcats to two close road wins this week: beating Kents Hill 48-45, then downing Hotchkiss 53-52. In both games, Kiara’s poise in the later stages of the game was key to the win. The Junior point guard controlled the pace, made good decisions with the ball, and sank critical free throws down the stretch in both games. Kiara is a vocal leader for the Wildcats and has been an incredible addition to the team this season.
Ashley Anderson ’29 – Girls Varsity Hockey
Newcomer Ashley Anderson ’29 has been a tremendous addition to our team this winter. Her strong hockey IQ, relentless work ethic, and skill set have been clear assets in both practices and games. Ashley consistently plays a strong 200-foot game and makes an impact in all zones. She scored two goals in the Pink game against Kent, helping lead the team to a 6–0 victory—marking the second game this season in which she has recorded a pair of goals. Beyond her on-ice contributions, Ashley has been an outstanding teammate, bringing positivity and consistently pushing others to be better in practice. We look forward to her continued impact this season and throughout her career here.
Maizy Lonergan ’30 – Girls JV Hockey
Maizy Lonergan is our Athlete of the Week. New to hockey this year, Maizy has made an immediate impact on the squad and quickly earned a spot on the first line. She has a natural sense of the game and is scoring consistently due to her strong positioning around the net. Gritty and hardworking, Maizy has a knack for being in the right place at the right time and never shies away from the tough areas of the ice. Her positive attitude never wavers, and she brings great energy to every practice, consistently working at game speed to improve each day. Maizy’s commitment and effort have made her a difference-maker for this team.
Olga Shamosh ’27 – Varsity Skiing
Olga has done an excellent job early in the season. New to racing, she has been fearless attacking each course in training and in races. She is building relationships with her teammates, learning a lot, and has already improved significantly early in the season.
Leo Li ’27 – Boys JV Squash
Leo delivered strong performances to earn matches against Eaglebrook and Avon old farms. Leo was the only player on the team to win his match against Avon. He showed clear intent and smart shot selection throughout the matches. He consistently hit tight length into the back corners, forcing his opponent deep and gaining control of rallies. His well-timed boasts opened the court and disrupted his opponent’s positioning. He recovered quickly to the T after each shot, allowing him to dominate the center of the court. From those strong positions, he applied constant pressure and stayed balanced. His drop shots were executed with great touch and timing, catching his opponent off guard. Overall, his control of space, movement, and variety proved the difference in two convincing victories.
Eliza DeCaro ’29 – Girls JV Squash
Eliza is a new player to the JV squash team this season, and she has shown impressive growth since the beginning of the year. She has always had a strong serve, but it has become more precise and is now a real strength in her game. With her strong arm, Eliza’s forehand consistently wins her points, and continued work on strategic shot selection will further strengthen her overall game. In the past two home matches, Eliza has demonstrated excellent hustle, dedication, and competitiveness. She won both matches, performances that she can be very proud of. We look forward to continuing to see her progress this winter. Keep up the great work, Eliza!
Shintaro Tsushima ’28 – Boys Varsity Swimming and Diving
Shintaro Tsushima started his tenth grade campaign right where he left off last season, dominating the competition. He is undefeated in dual meets this year and has put himself among the top performers in NEPSAC in the Individual Medley and the Fly. During practice he is a consistently positive force and helps lift his teammates up when they need it.
Audrey Dowsett ’29 – Girls Varsity Swimming and Diving
Audrey Dowsett has been a consistent and excellent contributor for the girls swimming & diving team this year. On Saturday she won the 100 meter freestyle for the second time this season and placed second in the 100 meter backstroke. She is an anchoring presence on the deck and in the pool and the team is excited to see what she is able to accomplish the rest of the season.