“Now, we’d like to present this plaque to Mr. Lecky.”

These were the words heard by the student body on a semi-regular basis throughout February. Almost every week, a different group of winter sport captains would take to the front of Memorial Chapel as Upper School students buzzed eagerly in their pews. These captains would walk up to the pulpit, concealing a flat, rectangular object beneath their arms. Then, they would hold the plaques into the air, which boasted the title “VISAA STATE  CHAMPIONS” in shimmering gold letters. Of course, this was met with rousing rounds of applause, and Mr. Lecky would elicit further cheering by lifting the trophy high. The award would be added to a war-chest of STC athletic achievement, or the (small) table outside Mrs. Wood’s office on the first floor of Chamberlayne Hall.

For the first time in St. Christopher’s Athletics history, three same-season varsity teams have won VISAA state championships in back-to-back years. Wrestling, Swimming and Indoor Track secured trophies for their elite performance over the course of the regular season and postseason. On the other hand, each of the sports that didn’t win a plaque set records in their own right. 

While success is only possible with the full effort of a team, its important to recognize the athletes and coaches who have received national attention for an elite level of performance. Just recently, pole-vaulting phenom Victor Olesen ’26 was recognized at New Balance Nationals as a national champion, and is currently number one for his age group in the country. Darius Gray ’26 continues to be a top football prospect in the country, and was the leading scorer for the Saints basketball team this winter. In addition, a number of STC coaches were recognized for their leadership by the Virginia Independent School Athletic Association. Coach of the Year honors were awarded to Mr. Bucka Watson, Mr. Marshall Ware ’81, Mr. Tommy Owen and Mr. Hamill Jones ’00.

As we continue to celebrate the success of the winter season, the spring has begun in full swing. Many more teams will have opportunities to represent our community in closing out this school year. We encourage you to support these teams by attending games in-person or joining the STCTV live streams on Youtube for future seasons.