2025 Green 13 Recipients

Now in its sixth year, the Green 13 Award continues to celebrate the remarkable student-athletes who exemplify what it means to be Green, leaders who consistently show high character, selflessness, and a commitment to making those around them better.

This past year, students and athletes across the country experienced Lead ‘Em Up, and with it, the challenge to step up, lead, and live green. Our Green 13 Award honors the best of the best: individuals who don’t just talk leadership, they live it.

Each spring, coaches and teachers from across our Lead ‘Em Up community nominate their top leaders for consideration. This year brought in a record number of nominations, with stories pouring in from all over the country. After reading through countless inspiring examples of leadership, encouragement, grit, and growth, we’ve selected 13 young leaders who stood above the rest.

The 2025 Green 13 aren’t just leaders on the field or in the classroom, they’re leaders everywhere. They bring energy when it’s lacking. They give more than they take. They serve their teammates and make people feel seen. They are a living, breathing example of what it means to be 100% Green.

As part of this year’s honor, each Green 13 recipient will receive an exclusive Lead ‘Em Up swag pack, a Green Team recognition plaque, and thanks to our incredible partners at Chick-fil-A, they’ll enjoy FREE CHICK-FIL-A FOR A YEAR.

We couldn’t be more excited to share their stories with you. These young leaders have left a mark on their teams and schools, and now, they’ve earned their spot among the Green 13.

Raegan Ogle

South River High School, Soccer/Basketball/Lacrosse, Maryland

Raegan’s story is all heart. After tearing her ACL in her sophomore year, she didn’t drift away from her team, she became an even stronger presence. She found ways to lead and support her teammates while working through one of the toughest setbacks an athlete can face.

Fast forward to her senior year, she surprised everyone by deciding to try lacrosse, a sport she had never played. Initially, the coach wasn’t sure there was a place for her. Two weeks later, that same coach called back to say Raegan had become one of the best players on the team.

She’s the kind of athlete who disproves the myth of sport specialization. A true three-sport athlete who gave her all, always. Her competitiveness, leadership, and all-around presence have earned her a place among the most impactful athletes in South River’s history.

Luke Farley

Archbishop Spalding High School, Lacrosse, Maryland

Luke Farley stands out as one of the most unique leaders in high school athletics. On a team ranked number one in the country, filled with high-level talent and future Naval Academy athletes, it was Luke, a player who rarely sees the field, who was overwhelmingly voted by his teammates to wear the honored number 7 jersey. That decision says everything you need to know about who Luke is.

His impact doesn’t come from stats or playing time but from how he makes everyone around him better. He brings unmatched energy and positivity every single day. He’s the loudest voice at practice, the biggest encourager on the sideline, and somehow manages to have a real, personal connection with every teammate. His consistency is unbelievable. He never has a bad day, or at least, you’d never know it. He radiates joy, loyalty, and courage in a way that raises the standard for everyone else.

There’s a moment on video when Luke is announced as the number 7 recipient. The entire cafeteria erupts. It’s not just about the number, it’s about what Luke represents to that team. He is the heartbeat of the program and the kind of leader every coach dreams of.

Kaleb Cook

Scintilla Charter Academy, Basketball & Track, Georgia

Kaleb Cook’s leadership journey is one of the most remarkable transformations we’ve ever seen. Just a year ago, Kaleb sat in a meeting with his coach and family after a season where he struggled to lead himself. That meeting was the turning point. Instead of making excuses or giving up, Kaleb chose to take the hard road. He listened. He applied the feedback. And he went to work.

What followed was a year of extraordinary growth. Kaleb didn’t just improve, he became a model leader. He went from being unverified to being voted MVG by his team and earning the highest Green score in school history through the classroom curriculum. His influence helped his team go from 3–11 to 13–3. That turnaround didn’t happen because of a stats jump. It happened because Kaleb raised the standard for everyone around him.

Kaleb is the best lifeguard his coach has ever worked with. He senses when teammates are struggling and is always the first to step in, offering support, encouragement, and real connection. His emotional intelligence is off the charts. He knows when to speak, when to challenge, and when to just be there. And his willingness to be honest with himself and embrace hard coaching has made him a floor-raiser for his entire program.

In a world where it’s easier to transfer or check out, Kaleb chose to lean in. He chose to lead. And now, everyone around him is better because of it.

Mareiona Mason

Concord High School, Basketball, Indiana

Mareiona Mason joined the Concord Girls Basketball team at the start of her senior year, and it took no time at all for her to change the temperature of the entire program. Although she filled a need on the court, her greatest contribution wasn’t in points or assists, it was in the energy she brought and the standard she set.

Mareiona is a textbook Energy Giver. Her presence is magnetic. Whether it’s celebrating a teammate’s success, handing out high fives at halftime, or lifting up a struggling teammate with a word of encouragement, she is always finding ways to make others better. One story perfectly captures who she is: during a high-stakes drill, a player scored on her, and Mareiona’s instinct was to compliment the move, even though it may have cost her team a sprint. That level of humility and sportsmanship is rare.

She leads even when it’s hard. In tough moments, she’s the first to own a mistake. She brings accountability, joy, and relentless positivity to everything she does. It’s no surprise her teammates quickly voted her as the first Green Verified player of the season, despite her being new to the program. By the end of the year, she was named the Most Valuable Green.

Some athletes fill the stat sheet. Mareiona filled the locker room with belief, unity, and inspiration. Her one season at Concord left a legacy that will last far beyond her graduation.

Jose Betancourt

CREC, Football, Connecticut

Jose Betancourt represents everything right about high school athletics. A four-year leader in the CREC Colts program, Jose has stood out not just for what he’s accomplished but for how he’s gone about it, with humility, consistency, and a rare willingness to put the team above himself.

After three years as the team’s starting running back, Jose made the selfless decision to switch positions in his senior year, stepping into the quarterback role when the team needed leadership there most. It wasn’t a natural transition, but he embraced the challenge with determination and grit. That single decision says everything about who Jose is.

Jose’s leadership isn’t loud or flashy. He leads through action, by being the first to arrive, the last to leave, and the one who never cuts corners. He treats every teammate with respect, celebrates others’ successes, and takes responsibility when things don’t go well. His humility makes him approachable; his work ethic makes him admired.

He balances everything, school, sports, and life, with incredible discipline. Despite a demanding schedule, Jose continues to excel academically and never lets the pressure shake his commitment to others. Whether it’s helping a teammate improve at practice or supporting a classmate in the classroom, he shows up consistently with a quiet strength and unshakable integrity.

Jose is the kind of leader who doesn’t need a title or the spotlight. He leads simply because it’s who he is. His legacy isn’t just in touchdowns or game film, it’s in the lives he’s impacted and the standard he’s set. Jose Betancourt is a Green 13 selection because he lives out the values of courage, humility, and service every single day.

 

Nolan Ross

Walter Johnson High School, Baseball, Maryland

Nolan Ross is the kind of leader every team hopes for, he leads with heart, humility, and a deep commitment to the team. His impact on teammates is real and personal.

Earlier this season, after a younger player struck out, Nolan quietly walked over, put a hand on his shoulder, and encouraged him to stay locked in. No coach prompted him, he just knew it was the right thing. When his coach texted him later, Nolan simply replied, “I just wish I had a senior do that for me. I thought it could help the team.” That’s who Nolan is: someone who remembers what it feels like and takes action to make it better.

On senior day, Nolan even gave up his starting spot so a teammate could have the moment instead. He was the only senior to start the game on the bench, and still, was unanimously voted Team MVP.

Nolan is a consistent presence in Lead ‘Em Up sessions, always modeling what leadership looks like. He texts his coaches with suggestions to help the team and never hesitates to do the small things, like laying down a bunt, if it’s what the team needs.

He’s also a standout on the field, likely to be named Pitcher of the Year in one of Maryland’s toughest divisions. Walter Johnson is currently ranked fourth in the state, and when it’s all on the line, Nolan wants the ball. According to his coach, in 11 years of leading a varsity team, no one has earned more respect than Nolan. And because of his example, the younger players are greener and more prepared than ever.

Jalen Marshall

Damascus High School, Basketball, Maryland

Jalen Marshall is the type of leader every coach hopes to build a program around. Reliable, vocal, and full of positive energy, Jalen has been the steady force that’s held the Damascus team together, especially during the tougher seasons.

After two highly successful years to start his high school career, the team hit some bumps. The last two seasons hovered around .500, but Jalen’s leadership turned what could’ve been forgettable years into some of the most meaningful and enjoyable ones for Coach Brian Humphrey in over a decade of coaching.

Jalen’s impact goes far beyond the scoreboard. His relentless desire to make those around him better and his consistent commitment to doing the right thing, especially when no one’s watching, set the standard. He doesn’t chase trends or follow the crowd. He leads with character, not for attention, but because it’s who he is.

Jalen came up under two incredible leaders in Joey Lutz and Peter Mangan, and he didn’t just live up to their example, he became that same example for others. His legacy at Damascus is one of consistency, care, and culture-building.

Lily Capobianco

Paul D. Schreiber High School, Basketball, New York

Lily Capobianco never stepped on the court this season, but she never left the team either. After tearing her ACL in the summer before her senior year, Lily wasn’t medically cleared to play. That didn’t stop her from showing up to every practice, every game, and every team event. Her teammates quickly began calling her “Coach Lily,” a nickname that reflected her role as an energetic, thoughtful leader from the sidelines.

She was the first to offer encouragement, the loudest voice in the huddle, and the most selfless presence in the room. Lily constantly gave her teammates pointers, helped them adjust to in-game situations, and kept their spirits high no matter the score.

When she was cleared for just a few minutes of playing time during Senior Night, Lily made the most of it. But when it came time to close out the game, she passed on the opportunity so her fellow seniors and a close junior teammate could share the moment together. That gesture summed up Lily perfectly, selfless, team-first, and emotionally mature beyond her years.

Even without logging real minutes this season, Lily’s impact was undeniable. She embodied leadership in its purest form, consistent, supportive, and quietly powerful. The Lady Vikings were lucky to have her wearing the captain’s title this season.

Luke McLellan

Air Academy High School, Lacrosse, Colorado

Luke McLellan is the heartbeat of Air Academy Lacrosse. A four-year Green Verified leader and three-year captain, Luke doesn’t just lead with his voice, he leads with accountability, consistency, and connection.

This year, during practice, Luke broke his stick and didn’t have a backup. After the session, he stepped into the team huddle and owned the moment: “I need to do better and have all my gear. It doesn’t do any good if I don’t have it. We all need to have our backups dialed in and ready so we don’t let our teammates down like I did tonight.” He then thanked the teammate who let him borrow a shaft so he could finish practice. That moment showed the team something powerful: leadership isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being honest, accountable, and willing to grow.

Luke makes it easy for everyone on the team to feel connected. He doesn’t just stick with the seniors, he gives freshmen rides, checks in with JV players, and sits with whoever needs a friend. His energy, presence, and selflessness bring people together.

Justine Gumucio

Churchill High School, Lacrosse, Maryland

Justine Gumucio is the definition of steady, selfless leadership. A senior at Churchill High School, she brought energy, optimism, and motivation to her team every single day, no matter the circumstances.

While many athletes shine in one or two big moments, what sets Justine apart is her consistency. Whether it was a grueling practice or a tough game, she showed up with a smile, ready to lift her teammates. That level of positivity and commitment is rare and incredibly powerful.

Justine leads through her relentless work ethic, coachability, and team-first mindset. She puts her teammates ahead of herself, listens intently to feedback, and constantly looks for ways to improve, not for personal accolades, but to raise the level of everyone around her. Her attitude is infectious, and her presence makes the team better, both on and off the field.

She’s not just a standout player, she’s the kind of leader every team dreams of having.

Shaheed Armstrong

Parkside High School, Football, Maryland

Shaheed Armstrong embodies what it means to be a true leader. Even while battling injuries, Shaheed never stepped away from his role as a difference-maker. Whether it was football, basketball, or lacrosse, he made every team he touched better, not by stats, but by presence, effort, and heart.

His leadership didn’t waver when things got tough. Instead, it sharpened. He showed up, stayed engaged, and continued to lead, even when sidelined. Through adversity, both on and off the field, Shaheed displayed an unwavering commitment to his teammates, offering encouragement, support, and example.

Shaheed’s integrity and selflessness have made him a pillar of strength for his teams. His willingness to stay the course and uplift others, despite personal challenges, sets him apart. As he heads off to college on scholarship, this recognition is another chapter in a story of perseverance, grit, and heart.

Shaheed Armstrong is 100% Green.

Kai Cooper

James Herbert Blake High School, Football, Maryland

When Kai Cooper speaks, people stop and listen. But it’s not just his words that matter, it’s the example he sets every single day. As a three-time team captain, Kai has become the emotional and cultural anchor of his team. Whether it’s leading workouts, keeping the locker room unified after a tough loss, or simply showing up for a younger teammate, Kai leads with heart, humility, and an unshakable commitment to his team.

After a heartbreaking regular season loss, their first in over a year, Kai didn’t point fingers. He pulled his team together, reminded them of their core values, and challenged them to respond with even more love and unity. He lives out the “We Over Me” mindset so well that his team honors him by assigning him the coveted #1 jersey, symbolizing the ultimate team player.

In the classroom, in the weight room, on the field, and in the community, Kai Cooper leads the way. With a 3.6 GPA and an upcoming opportunity to play football at Johns Hopkins University, Kai’s future is bright, but it’s his unwavering character that truly sets him apart.

Kai’s leadership doesn’t just lift his team, it defines it.

Ben Cuomo

Calvert Hall High School, Lacrosse, Maryland

Ben Cuomo is a standout student-athlete at Calvert Hall, known for his sharp focus, drive, and consistent effort in everything he takes on. As a face-off midfielder, he plays one of the game’s toughest roles and embraces the grind it requires with maturity and poise.

Ben approaches his development with intention, whether it’s early morning film, long days in the weight room, or pushing through tough stretches during the season. He credits the people around him, his family, coaches, teachers, and teammates, for helping him grow, and he never takes those opportunities for granted.

His dedication and mindset create a ripple effect on his team. He brings energy, professionalism, and a team-first mentality every time he shows up.

Ben is the kind of teammate every coach hopes for: reliable, driven, and all-in.

Honorable Mentions

• Candace Gilbert – Saint Joseph College of Maine – Girls Basketball
• Grady Metsker – Plymouth Rockies High School – Football
• Jocelyn Thomas – Moore High School – Volleyball
• Kellen Laird – National Trail High School – Boys Basketball
• Jamie McCrathran – Oakdale High School – Football
• Bodhi Hoffman – Quaker Valley Middle School – Boys Soccer
• Avery Wilson – Momentum Volleyball Club
• Austin Hoffman – Jackson Polar Bears – Cross Country & Track
• Lydia Maurer – Gibson Southern High School – Girls Basketball
• Alyssa Golombeck – Liberty High School – Girls Soccer
• Sadia Tirrell – Saint Joseph College of Maine – Field Hockey / Softball
• Suldan “Sully” Mohamed – Blue Spring South High School – Football
• Jace Wren – Southern Boone Eagles – Baseball
• Vanessa Valenzuela – North Marion High School – Girls Soccer
• Devin Cox – Westlake High School – Football
• Zachary Polland – Southern Elementary Braves – Football
• Elizabeth Andriano – Rolling Meadows High School – Girls Basketball
• Matthew Hoff – Augusta High School – Football
• Metolius Halloran-Steiner – McMinnville High School – Boys Soccer
• Vincent Do – Paint Branch High School – Football
• Austin Dale-Green – Pleasant Ridge High School – Baseball
• Joey Falls – South Lakes High School – Football
• Jamari Hoes – Seneca Valley High School – Boys Basketball
• Michael Cooley – Damascus High School – Boys Basketball
• Ivy Miranti – Carterville High School
• Anne Popit – Carterville High School
• Brodie Ezekiel – John G. Diefenbaker High School
• Madelyn (Maddie) Zordan – Saint Joseph’s College – Alpine Ski
• Mohammad Kulaib – CREC Academy – Boys Basketball
• Cy Probst – Frostburg State University – Baseball
• Tood Murphy – Frostburg State University – Baseball
• Elinor Kreisz – Oakville High School
• Jaslynn Meng – Key Largo Tornado Cheer and Dance Team
• Alexandria Carroll – Frederick High School – Cheerleading
• Ellie Ludwig – Hillsboro High School – Girls Soccer
• Anthony Wells – Northwest High School – Boys Basketball
• Landon Kogelman – Bay City John Glenn High School – Boys Soccer
• Zahria Jackson – Moss Point High School
• Lillian Souwuine – Saint Joseph’s College – Alpine Ski
• Kaiden Thomas – Utah Military Academy Hill Field – Football
• Adella Norton – South River High School – Girls Soccer
• Claire Werwie – South River High School – Girls Soccer
• Faith Dobosiewicz – Lehigh University – Girls Soccer
• Andrew Gray – Walt Whitman High School – Boys Basketball
• Simone Mazzarino – Quince Orchard High School – Girls Soccer
• Amber Clark-Matta – Quince Orchard High School – Girls Soccer
• Braedon Buchanan – Glen Burnie High School – Football
• Matteo Netto – Mary McDowell Friends School – Volleyball
• Jesse Grumbach-Bloom – Mary McDowell Friends School – Soccer
• Josh Tseronis – Quince Orchard High School – Baseball
• Jack Kodrin – Quince Orchard High School – Baseball
• Amber Clark-Matta – Quince Orchard High School – Lacrosse
• Drew Mendelow – Quince Orchard High School – Soccer