Student-athletes, parents and coaches gathered on Wednesday night, May 31st, for the Waldorf School’s 25th Annual Sports Night Dinner, to celebrate the hard work and achievements of the School’s student-athletes. Sponsored by the Parent Association, the annual event is an opportunity to recognize student-athletes in grades 7 through 12 who participated in soccer, basketball, softball, baseball, cross-country, and golf during the 2016-2017 school-year.

The Waldorf School of Garden City’s athletics director Mr. Shane Flanagan served as the evening’s emcee.

“The ceremony allows all of our Waldorf families to celebrate the athletic achievements of our teams, honor all the student-athletes, and recognize their unique contributions to the program,” said Mr. Flanagan

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Gabriel Kane Spirit of Athletics Award to Senior Phoebe Koubel. Named in honor of Waldorf alumnus Gabriel Kane ’99, the award is given each year to a student-athlete who has demonstrated commitment and dedication to the Waldorf athletic program, along with integrity as a student-athlete. Throughout his years at Waldorf, Gabriel was an active member of the School community, played on the Varsity Boys Soccer, Basketball and Lacrosse Teams and sang with the Waldorf Singers and Madrigals. He had just graduated from Muhlenberg College at the time of his death. The award was presented by Gabriel’s brother, Jessie Kane ‘o5.

Said Mr. Flanagan, “The Waldorf School of Garden City’s 25^th Annual Sports Night Ceremony went fabulously thanks to the generous volunteer work of the 12^th grade class,  our PA chairs Preston Li and Gina Mardy, Mr. and Mrs. Somers, Emmie Yaeger, Victor Kim, Alex Sapuppo and Victor Rivera. Their kindness and hard work made the event what it was. Thank you also to Go Greek restaurant that supplied the food for the evening, and to all the students and family members who stayed behind to clean up the gym. Lastly, farewell and best of luck to the graduating student-athletes. Your leadership and positive influence has had a profound effect on both the athletic department and the younger student-athletes involved within it. We thank you for your service and wish you nothing but the best for the future.”

While the 8th grade was unable to attend the main dinner, they received their awards at a special 8th Grade Student-Athlete Recognition Ceremony on Tuesday June 2nd.

The award winners are as follows:

Male and Female Athletic Services Award Winner:

Peter LePorin
Ardo Ali

Gabriel Kane Award Winner:

Phoebe Koubel