Senior Lane Calkins has been nominated for the 2022 Winged Foot Scholar-Athlete Award, representing Naples High School. The award recognizes the top senior athletes in Collier County high schools and thirteen nominees are chosen each year based on an evaluation of academic excellence, leadership achievements and athletic accomplishments.
To get nominated for this prestigious award, senior athletes have to meet rigorous criteria and exhibit superior qualifications. Some of the requirements include having earned career varsity letters, being a state champion and seasonal MVP, being an officer in student government or official club and having passed a personal interview with the Winged Foot Selection Committee, among many others. A full list of qualifications and additional criteria may be viewed here.
“Lane exemplifies what the Winged Foot award is about: leadership, scholarship, sportsmanship and athleticism,” Athletic Director and Activities Coordinator Cassie Barone said.
Calkins will receive a $5,000 scholarship and a plaque recognizing her nomination for meeting all of the listed requirements set forth by the Winged Foot Committee.
“I was both surprised and overjoyed when I got the nomination,” Calkins said. “There are so many talented student athletes within my class, it was always uncertain who would get the nomination. When my coach announced it in front of the entire lacrosse team, I truly could not be happier.”
Calkins has achieved incredible achievements both on and off the field, having received numerous recognitions for her performance in sports and in her advanced classes. She has had a strong support network since her childhood, with her family emphasizing the importance of hard work and dedication. Having a determined mindset for years allowed Calkins to succeed in her ventures and reach unprecedented heights.
“My parents have always stressed the importance of both athletics and academics in my life,” Calkins said. “They created expectations for me at a very young age, showing me what I had to do in order to succeed.”
Her parents have provided the inspiration she needed to pursue her goals, motivating her through every step of her athletic and academic journey. Looking up to her parents and other local athletes provided Calkins with role models who guided and encouraged her to reach the many milestones in her high school years.
“My biggest role models are my parents. My dad played lacrosse in college and provides a great example for me both on and off the field. My mother made a life for herself out of practically nothing and is one of the strongest people I know,” Calkins said. “I’ve also admired local athletes, such as Olivia Ferruchi, Julia Kolderman, Erin Bakes and Sophie Sullinger.”
Calkins has committed to Princeton University for lacrosse, and she hopes to continue improving in all aspects of her life as she transitions to the new opportunities that will be offered to her on the collegiate level. Her exceptional skills will undoubtedly bring many valuable assets to her college team, bringing her new successes and meaningful experiences.
“My hope for the future is to continue my successes on and off the field,” Calkins said. “By maintaining my work ethic, I hope to continue to improve athletically, academically and personally throughout the next chapter of my life.”
The 33rd annual Winged Foot banquet will be held on Thursday, May 26, at Naples Grande Beach Resort to honor the nominees.
“Lane has been a leader at NHS for the past four years both on the athletic field as well as in the classroom,” Barone said. “I am thrilled to have Lane represent Naples High School as our Winged Foot nominee.”
