Jewish American Heritage Month

Posted By admin on May 17, 2017

Hidden Valleys Drew Freeland was watching a friend compete in the Titan Toughman wrestling tournament when William Byrds Adam Catron caught her eye.

He killed it every time I saw him, Freeland said.

Both Timesland seniors pinned down a huge honor Monday when they won the Bnai Brith Athletic Achievement Awards during the 67th annual banquet at Sheraton Hotel and Conference Center.

Freeland became Hidden Valleys first female winner of the prestigious award, adding to a string of individual honors in 2016-17.

Freeland was named the Timesland player of the year in volleyball and girls basketball and all-Group 3A in both sports, leading the Titans to the state volleyball title and a semifinal showing in basketball.

Nevertheless, Freeland was not expecting to win the Bnai Brith Award, which is based 50 percent on athletics, and 25 percent each on academics and community service.

Seniors from 19 high schools in the Roanoke Valley and New River Valley are eligible for nomination.

I know a lot of these kids from around the valley, and I see their name in the paper, she said. Its just a really big honor to be here.

I was surprised. I didnt realize it was me, for a second. Im shaking right now. Im definitely more calm at a sporting event.

Freeland, who will be a walk-on in the womens basketball program at Lafayette, broke former Hidden Valley star Abby Olivers career scoring record at Hidden Valley.

In her free time, Freeland assisted with Hidden Valleys youth camps, just as former Titans stars helped her as a younger girl.

I have my size 4 basketball shoes signed by Abby Oliver and Abby Redick, she said.

Catron left big shoes to fill in Byrds wrestling program.

He placed third in the Group 3A state tournament and was a second-team All-Timesland selection.

Catron appeared stunned when his name was called.

Its a humbling experience, he said. You never think its going to be you. There are so many amazing kids here. Then all of a sudden they call your name. Im just in awe. No words.

Words have not always been easy for Catron.

The Terriers wrestler succeeded in all facets in his school and community while overcoming Tourette Syndrome.

I figured out the best way to deal with it is dont let it bother you, have a thick shell, said Catron, who will attend Virginia Tech. It will only bother you if you let it bother you. You can push through anything.

Freeland and Catron each won a $1,000 scholarship.

Glenvars Cassie Wheeler won the Artie Levin Personal Life Award as the nominee with the highest score in the community service category.

Link:
Drew Freeland, Adam Catron receive B'nai B'rith honors - Roanoke Times

Category: B'nai B'rith
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