Celebrating Excellence: The 2026 High School Sports Awards Gala

Honoring the Heroes of High School Sports

The Cincinnati Enquirer has unveiled the winners and finalists of the prestigious 2026 High School Sports Awards for the fall and winter seasons. This annual gala celebrates not just athletic prowess, but the grit, determination, and heart of young athletes all across the region.

This year's ceremony will take place on June 16 at the Princeton High School auditorium, and promises a format that enhances personal interactions among honorees and spectators alike. With doors opening at 5 p.m., finalists will enjoy a reception filled with light refreshments, followed by the award presentations commencing at 7 p.m. I can already feel the excitement buzzing in the air!

“To see our local athletes recognized for their hard work and achievements is always inspiring,” said event coordinator Shelby Dermer. “This year, we're introducing new elements to enhance the experience for winners, their families, and fans.”

The Ceremony Plans

Attendees will witness a collection of heartfelt speeches, and I'll personally be excited to see Rocky Boiman take the stage as our featured speaker. Joe Danneman from Fox19 and Shelby Dermer will serve as presenters, adding their unique flair to the event.

What Winners Need to Know

• While tickets aren't necessary, RSVP is mandatory for all winners.
• Winners unable to attend are requested to submit an acceptance video.
• When their category is called, winners will take the stage to give brief remarks.
• Coaches and athletic directors of winning athletes and teams are also encouraged to attend without needing a ticket.
• Winners must arrive by 6:30 p.m. for a memorable group photo session.

Finalists Get Their Due

For those finalists not taking home awards, there's still a moment to shine:

• A reception prior to the event allows finalists to mingle and enjoy light refreshments while connecting with fellow athletes.
• Each finalist will receive their certificate at designated booths staffed by Enquirer personnel, capturing that special moment with photos for a red-carpet gallery.
• While not called to the stage during the ceremony, finalists will see their names featured on screens and shared in highlight reels.

Announcing the Award Winners

Winter Sports

Boys Archery

Winner: Ethan Pauciulo, Ryle
Finalists: Ari Edmonds, Scott; Kyle Kirkpatrick, Cooper; Sawyer McClure, Walton-Verona; Brayden Nevels, Cooper; Michael Turner, Pendleton County.

Girls Archery

Winner: Karina Usman, Simon Kenton
Finalists: Emerson Caravona, Cooper; Lexus Goff, Scott; Joannah Hibbett, Cooper; Rylee Schmidt, St. Henry; Prisha Shah, Ryle.

Boys Basketball (Ohio)

Winners: A'mire Gill, Princeton; Kellen Wiley, Wyoming.
Finalists: Grady Barber, Williamsburg; Jason Caimano, Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy; Antwan Hinton, Taft; Max Joiner, Summit Country Day; Isaiah Mack-Russell, Winton Woods; Chase Martin, Loveland; Zevin Sesslar, Waynesville; Eli Stroud, Badin; Josh Tyson, Lakota West; Antonio White, Deer Park.

Girls Basketball (Ohio)

Winner: Erin Thomas, Princeton
Finalists: Lauren Bain, Seton; Gabby Chadwell, Milford; Braelyn Even, Badin; Katie Fox, Lakota West; Anna Habra, Mason; McKenzie Jones, Springboro; Yaya Parrish, Western Hills; Bella Rogers, Loveland; Bella Swisshelm, West Clermont; Mia Vieth, Mount Notre Dame; Samaya Wilkins, Purcell Marian.

More Honors

Boys Bowling

Winner: Easton Pierani, Sycamore.
Finalists: Matthew Alvear, Lebanon; Ty Barrett, West Clermont; Jayden Brown, Elder; Randy Eckman, Blanchester; Joseph Geers, St. Xavier.

Gymnastics

Winner: Kiera Laite, Mariemont.
Finalists: Leah DeVilbiss, Lakota East; Zoey Ostdiek, Lakota West; Ella Oum, Turpin; Chesnie Weisbrod, Kings; Hayden Zimmerman, Cincinnati Country Day.

Looking Ahead

Stay tuned as we anticipate the announcement of the spring and premium award winners alongside their nominees. The spring awards will cover categories like baseball, softball, tennis, and more, reflecting the vibrancy of youth sports in our community.

Final Thoughts

As a sports reporter, joining the journey of these young athletes brings me immense joy. Their resilience, passion, and determination are what keep our sports culture alive and thriving. Let's celebrate them and remind ourselves why we love the world of sports!