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Northside's Trinity (O’Neal Zac Small/Z Photography & Media)

Northside's Max Vansant (Jason O. Boyd | Washington Daily News)

Lily McLean (Southside High School photo)

Southside's Jonas Salas (Beaufort County Schools photo)

Washington's Riley O'Neal (Jason O. Boyd | Washington Daily News)

Washington's Keondrick Melton (Jason O. Boyd | Washington Daily News)

Editor’s Note: Beaufort County Schools Athletic Director Keith Mitchell started a new trend to recognize male and female athletes from each of the public high schools each month during the school year. The first athletes were recognized during the November school board meeting.

These are the December athletes to be recognized. Schools submit a nomination notice to Mitchell to be considered for the honor. The nomination notices are below.

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By KEITH MITCHELL

Beaufort County Schools Athletic Director

Northside High School

Male Athlete: Max Vansant

Female Athlete: Trinity O’Neal

Trinity O’Neal

Not only has Trinity been a valuable asset to our cheerleading team and an outstanding Captain this season, but she is dedicated and committed to herself and her team in a way that many cannot fathom.

Trinity has helped facilitate a team based on trust, loyalty, and friendships, but is also an ambassador to others, underclassmen and our fans. I cannot begin to explain how appreciative I am of this athlete for her dedication. z 

Many may not know this, but she always overcomes the odds, you would never know if she has been through any struggle because she always comes in ready to work with a smile on her face.

This Fall she was in a bad vehicle accident and shortly after sprained an ankle. Both events would cause anyone to want to take time off, but not her. She came to practices even just to watch, or to mark her places in a routine… never faltering to show up for herself or the team.

If all of this is not reason enough to be recognized, she has also just returned from an All-American trip, which is her 3rd time being recognized as an “All-American” cheerleader by Varsity Spirit, and earned “All-Conference Team” at our last competition.

I am beyond proud of her as a cheerleader and an athlete, but most of all I am proud of her as a human being and the care and love she carries within herself.

Max Vansant

I am writing to recommend Max Vansant, a student who has excelled in football, basketball, and golf at Northside High School for the past four years. 

Throughout his time at Northside, Max has demonstrated exemplary skills across multiple athletic disciplines, earning numerous awards and accolades. Notably, he has received special recognition for his outstanding performance in basketball, including being nominated for the All-Tournament Team as well as being honored with offensive and defensive awards within the basketball realm, showcasing his versatile skill set and leadership on the court.

His dedication, drive, and passion for sports have not gone unnoticed, as his contributions to the athletic community at Northside High School have been truly commendable. We believe that his unwavering commitment to excellence sets a high standard for his peers and serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes within the school and beyond.

Southside High School

Male Athlete: Jonathan Salas

Female Athlete: Lily McLean

Lily McLean

Lily recently finished her season in volleyball and now is a stand-out player for the Seahawks basketball team.  She is a true leader on and off the court.  She works hard and does everything she can to make everyone around her better.  This demonstrates the talent she possesses and the willingness she has to compete.  

Lily takes pride in her academics as well as her athletics, where she has a 3.7 GPA in the classroom.  

On the basketball court, Lily has demonstrated the work ethic, commitment, and heart of a champion. Off the court, Lily is well respected by her peers and her teachers. This is a reflection of the respect and gratitude she shows toward everyone.  Lily shows character and sportsmanship that every student-athlete should own.  

Jonathan Salas

Jonathan shows outstanding character and success both on and off the field and wrestling mat. His commitment to excellence, relentless work ethic, and sportsmanship have made him a standout student-athlete and a role model for his peers.

As a wrestler, Jonathan has demonstrated exceptional skill and determination. He is currently undefeated for the current season and has a 38-12 overall record as a junior.  He was also Southside’s kicker for the football team.  His ability to stay focused under pressure and his strategic approach to each match and kick reflect not only his physical strength but also his mental discipline.

Beyond his athletic achievements, Jonathan is a leader within the school community. He is known for his humility, respect for others, and unwavering integrity. He consistently demonstrates a commitment to helping those around him succeed.

Jonathan’s success is a testament to his dedication and resilience. He balances his rigorous training schedule with academic responsibilities, earning the admiration of teachers and coaches alike. His determination, positive attitude, and respect for his sport and peers make him a deserving recipient of this recognition.

Washington High School

Male Athlete: Keondrick Melton

Female Athlete: Riley O’Neal

Riley O’Neal

Riley O’Neal had an outstanding 2024 Fall season as a key player for Washington High School’s volleyball team. Known for her consistency on the court, she regularly delivered impactful performances, including her impressive outing against North Pitt, where she recorded 15 digs, 8 kills, and 8 aces. In another notable match against Southwest Edgecombe, Riley contributed 12 kills, 9 aces, and 3 digs, further establishing her as a leader on the court. 

Her efforts played a crucial role in the team’s success throughout the season. To finish off the season, Riley was second in the conference in Aces, and top 10 in digs, hitting, and kills. Riley’s strong season highlights her importance to the team and her ability to rise to the occasion on both offense and defense, solidifying her reputation as one of the standout players in Washington High School’s volleyball program.

Keondrick Melton

Keondrick was a senior leader on our Pam Pack football team.

Keondrick finished off the football season on a high note with a top 5 ranking in the state with 1,629 rushing yards, 9 games with over 100 yards rushing, and led the team to a playoff berth for the first time in 3 years.

Keondrick’s hard work earned him first-team all-conference and offensive player of the year in the Eastern Plains 2A Conference.  His dedication to his team helped push the Pam Pack through a grueling season and helped the team achieve many successes.  We thank Keondrick for all his hard work over the last four years and can’t wait to see his achievements while playing college football.

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