Emotion Evident At
J-Y Athletic Awards

By Fred Stabbert III
JEFFERSONVILLE — June 13, 2000 -- It was a night filled with trophies, tales of courage and tears as coaches from Sullivan West Jeffersonville-Youngsville School handed out its top athletic awards Sunday night before a packed house of 400 in the school’s gymnasium.
Thanking parents, athletes and administration, coach after coach came to the podium to hand out the top awards in each sport.
The highlight of the evening came when the coaches announced the 1999-2000 Most Valuable Senior Male and Female Athletes.
Beth Fanning, a star player in basketball, softball and soccer, took home the top female athlete and received her award to a standing ovation.
Fanning will be attending Elmira College in the fall, where she will earn a four-year sports scholarship valued at $76,000. She will play soccer and basketball.
The Most Valuable Male Athlete went to standout runner Brandon Rose, who lettered in cross country, winter track, spring track and basketball during his high school career.
In an emotional speech, Rose accepted the award from his father, coach George Rose, then gave his award to fellow senior Meaghan Mullally for her example as a fearless competitor and terrific athlete.
Rose said Mullally’s accomplishments, which included qualifying for states for seven years in a row, were unequaled.
Both athletes embraced, then walked back to their seats to a standing ovation.
See Friday’s edition for a complete list of outstanding athletes in every sport.