William (“Beau”) Burnette, a senior at J.F. Webb High School in Granville County, is a remarkable individual who has left an indelible mark during his high school career. Since his freshman year, he has exemplified leadership as a captain of the lacrosse team, driving his teammates to success while fostering a sense of camaraderie. Beau’s dedication and skills on the lacrosse field led to numerous accolades, including being named All-Conference and receiving the prestigious title of Conference Player of the Year in his junior year. Beau has also participated on the baseball, basketball, football, and golf teams at J.F. Webb. Alongside sports, he excelled academically, earning membership in the National Honor Society and National Art Honor Society, while actively contributing to his school and community through involvement in Student Council, a local animal shelter, and his church/youth group. In the fall, Beau will attend Sewanee: The University of the South where he will play lacrosse and plans to major in History. A note from Beau – “While it may not seem much to some people, the J.F. Webb lacrosse team has a huge part of my heart. They inspire me to be better, to get stronger, and to ‘grow the game.’ They have inspired me to coach but not just be a coach for a club team, but to find kinds who would never have the opportunities I have had and share my passion for the game.”
Nicholas Hampton, a senior at R.J. Reynolds High School in Forsyth County, has been a member of the varsity men’s lacrosse team all four years. Despite the challenges posed by COVID in his freshman year, he remained committed, and event took on the role of a youth recreational lacrosse coach. As a sophomore, Nicholas’ talent and hard work earned him accolades such as All-Conference, Conference Defensive Player of the Year, and Team Defensive Player of the Year. He continued to excel his junior year, earning All-Conference honors and Team Defensive Player of the Year, while also demonstrating his commitment to academics through induction into the National Honor Society. He has also served as a team captain during his sophomore, junior, and senior years. Nicholas has balanced his lacrosse and academic pursuits with community service as a volunteer junior firefighter, and in his senior year, he was recognized as the Junior Firefighter of the Year. In the fall, Nicholas will attend St. John’s University where he will play lacrosse and plans to study Sport Management. A note from Nicholas – “The game of lacrosse has been a monumental part of my life, and I wouldn’t be the man I am today without the sport. The rec, high school, and travel coaches have all left a mark on who I am today. So, my plan to give back to the younger generations would be as a coach, no matter the level, to help ensure important life lessons, they can take with them when their playing career is over.”
Kenan Everhart, a senior at Ashley High School in New Hanover County, has demonstrated remarkable dedication and involvement in various sports and community initiatives. From 9th to 12th grade, Kenan consistently participated in basketball and lacrosse, showcasing his athletic versatility and commitment to sport. In lacrosse, he worked hard and earned many accolades like Under Armor All-American Team Player – South in 2020, #1 Player in total points for his classification his sophomore year, and was All-State and All-Region his junior year while serving as a team captain. In addition to his athletic pursuits, Kenan consistently took on leadership roles in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and has also made a meaningful impact as a coach at Carolina Coast Lacrosse, using his skills and knowledge to mentor aspiring players. Not stopping there, Kenan actively contributed to the Kids-Helping-Kids non-profit organization, displaying his passion for making a positive difference in the lives of others. In the fall, Kenan will attend Loyola University Maryland where he will play lacrosse and plans to study Dental Hygiene. A note from Kenan – “I enjoy giving back to the youth by giving lacrosse lessons to kids weekly. I’m also heavily involved in the Kids-Helping-Kids Program which I started with my parents to help underprivileged kids in our community receive Christmas gifts during the holiday season. We have helped over 100+ families.”
Michael Stavrianakis, a senior at Clayton High School in Johnston County, has consistently shown his passion for lacrosse and community service throughout his high school journey. He has been an integral part of the lacrosse team, consistently demonstrating his skills and commitment on the field. In addition to his own achievements, Michael has served as a valuable mentor and coach for the Clayton Civitan Junior Lacrosse Program, guiding and inspiring younger players in their development. Moreover, his compassionate nature led him to volunteer at the Pasture Pals Equine Rescue, where he selflessly contributes to the care and rehabilitation of horses. Michael’s unwavering dedication to lacrosse, coaching, and community service reflects his well-rounded character and his commitment to making a positive impact both in sports and his community. In the fall, Michael will attend the University of Mount Olive where he will play lacrosse and plans to study Business Education. A note from Michael – “I truly love everything lacrosse and I enjoy coaching with our town’s middle school lacrosse team. It is even more special to me because I get to help my younger brother become a better lacrosse player.”
