Introducing our Athletes of the Week program! Each week, Williston coaches nominate one student-athlete from their team who stood out by demonstrating our core values of purpose, passion, and integrity. These athletes show exceptional dedication, leadership, and sportsmanship, both on and off the field, embodying what it means to be a Williston Wildcat. Read below for more information on each of the Athletes of the Week.
Richard Zhang ’27-Boys JV Basketball
The sophomore, Richard, led the team to a thrilling comeback victory against Loomis on Saturday. Trailing by 12 points late in the game, Richard ignited the offense with 14 points in the second half. His defensive intensity was equally impactful, forcing critical turnovers that the team converted into points. Richard’s hard work and growing understanding of the team’s philosophy continue to shine through, contributing to this dramatic and hard-fought win. The Wildcats will lean on Richard for his effort and strong play this season.
Nam Vu ’27- Boys Thirds Basketball
In the Wildcats loss at Worcester Academy, Nam showcased his determination and hustle on both ends of the floor as they tried to stay in the game. Nam’s tenaciousness on offense led to several great plays, including solid finishes around the basket by him. Asked to play in a variety of positions, Nam kept working and fighting throughout the game. His teammates and coaches look forward to watching his continued contributions as the season progresses.
Zola Piekarski ’26- Girls Varsity Hockey
Zola has had an outstanding start to the season, showcasing her all-around game and strong leadership on and off the ice. Defensively, she battles hard along the wall, consistently gets pucks out, and is always there to backcheck with purpose, supporting her defense when needed. Her forechecking is relentless; she digs pucks out of corners and creates turnovers, sparking transitions to offense. This past Saturday, Zola gave a standout performance, scoring two goals. Her first came on the power play in the second period, and her second was a spectacular individual effort where she beat the goalie short side, a magical goal that ignited momentum for the team in the third period. Zola is a powerful presence on the ice, always giving her best effort, and her leadership extends beyond her individual play. As a teammate, she is supportive, encouraging others to give their best as well. Her teammates and coaches look forward to Zola’s continued contributions throughout the season.
Maggie Fay ’25- Girls JV Hockey
Maggie has served as an offensive force at this early stage in the season. During the team’s game on Wednesday Maggie scored a Hat trick and helped to lead the Cat’s to a 6-2 win. During the team’s game at Deerfield she scored a great one-timer off of a pass from left winger Riley Platt, making her the leading scorer on our team. Her positive attitude and dedication to the team makes her stand out as a leader and positive force for the team culture. She has already stepped up this season by taking on a position that she hasn’t played in a long time and is proving to be an invaluable catalyst for generating strong chances on the net.
Sierra Grandonico ’26-Skiing
During the first two weeks of Ski Team practice, Captain Sierra Grandonico showed excellent leadership skills. She has tried to make new teammates feel welcome in the program, proving her team first mentality. Sierra puts in admirable effort during conditioning and always maintains a positive attitude despite the rainy Monday afternoon runs. The team will rely on her leadership through example as they move through this season.
Bennett Evelti ’26- Boys Varsity Squash
After two years of doing tedious work, hitting 1,000 balls against the wall on his own, watching YouTube videos, and honing his skills, Bennett jumped to #6 on the Squash ladder this season. He played an exceptionally close match against KO on Saturday, losing in 4 games. As our co-coach Pep put it, “Bennett is doing things on the court he couldn’t do just a few months ago.” Bennett is a prime example of someone who independently sets goals and holds himself to high standards. The team looks forward to his continued growth between the rails this season.
Ashley Zhang ’26- Girls Varsity Squash
As one of the returning varsity members of the team, Ashley has made a concerted effort to welcome the new varsity players to the team. Her positive attitude and warm presence have already strengthened the morale of the team. Additionally, Ashley always seeks to assist fellow players, offering insightful tips to her peers during the first matches of the season this week. Her spirit and energy carried her through a grueling match against Ethel Walker during the week, and this performance was a sign of an amazing season to come!
Herrick Stevenson ’25- Boys Varsity Swimming and Diving
Herrick led the team to a win over NMH and a first-place finish at the Kingswood Invitational. He’s won all four of his individual races and been a part of 4 winning relay teams as well. Whether it’s practice or a meet, Herrick sets the standard for the Wildcats. Consistently one of the hardest workers in the room, Herrick’s leadership will be an important cog in the wheel of success for the Wildcats this season.
Mya Schattin ’25-Girls Varsity Swimming and Diving
Mya has had an incredible start to the season for the varsity swim program leading the team to a second-place finish at the KO Invitational with solid swims. She’s a sprint specialist but her versatility will be important this season and she has been impressive over the first few weeks. The team will lean on her for her leadership through example and strong performances as they work through this season.