Skip To Main Content

Winter highlights — Student-athlete excellence

large group of adults and high school students smiling

Meet our student-athletes

The Salem-Keizer School Board recently recognized student-athletes and winter sports programs from across the district for their success during the winter season. Students were celebrated not only for individual accomplishments, but for representing the dedication, teamwork and pride of their entire programs.

Sprague High School

The girls basketball team made major strides this season by building a strong team culture, increasing participation and strengthening school spirit. Their efforts led to a third-place finish in district competition and a competitive playoff appearance. Carly Skogstad was recognized as a four-year starter and leader whose commitment reflects the growth of the entire program.

Sprague boys wrestling also earned recognition after overcoming injuries and competing through one of the toughest schedules in the state. The team finished second in the conference tournament. Judah Parr was honored as a district champion and fifth-place state finisher. Many team members also maintained GPAs of 3.5 or higher.

West Salem High School

The West Salem girls swim team captured the CVC league title and placed sixth at the state meet. Abby Evans was recognized as a four-year state qualifier and multiple district champion.

Jarrod Coy represented the boys team after winning a state championship in the 100 butterfly, becoming Salem’s first boys swimming state champion in years. Coach Dan Evans was also honored as CVC Coach of the Year.

South Salem High School

South Salem cheer completed a remarkable turnaround season focused on kindness, teamwork and high expectations. The team earned the Top Team award at camp and went on to win the school’s first state championship title. Addison Enger, Emerson Bay and Coach Michelle Demarest were recognized for representing the resilience and spirit of the program.

McKay High School

McKay boys and girls wrestling both demonstrated growth and competitive success this season. Each team sent four wrestlers to the state tournament, and both programs earned two state placers.

Yair Suarez was recognized as a district champion and fifth-place state finisher. Jasmin Lopez Hernandez earned district runner-up honors and placed fourth at state.

North Salem High School

North Salem boys wrestling captured its first district title since 1980 and finished fifth in the state. Yandel Basham was honored as a district champion and third-place state finisher.

The girls wrestling team also had an outstanding season, placing second at districts and fourth at state. Madelynn Littlejohn and Aileen Paniagua both won state championships. Madelynn was recognized during the meeting after pinning every opponent on her way to the title.

McNary High School

McNary girls wrestling completed a historic season by earning third place at the state tournament by a single point. It marked the first state trophy in program history and the first wrestling state trophy for McNary since the 1970s.

Marlina Martinez earned a first-place individual finish, while McKenna Unger placed second at state.

Celebrating Teamwork and Excellence

The recognition honored not only individual athletes, but also teammates, coaches, families and communities who supported them throughout the season. Salem-Keizer congratulates all winter sports teams on an incredible year of excellence, perseverance and pride.

 

Read More of Our Stories