Watkins Glen High School senior Julia Spahalski was honored Friday with the 21st annual Susan B. Haeffner Schuyler County Sportsmanship Award during the school’s academic and athletic awards assembly.
The award, known as the “Susan Award,” recognizes a student who exemplifies kindness, resilience, and a spirit of sportsmanship—qualities once embodied by Susan B. Haeffner. It was first presented in 2005 by Odessa File Editor Charlie Haeffner in memory of his late wife.
Spahalski, a standout soccer player before injuries curtailed her athletic career, was recognized for her continued dedication to school and community. She serves as president of the Student Council, reigns as Homecoming Queen, helps manage the school store, and volunteers regularly in the elementary school.
Praised for her respectful and generous nature, Spahalski joins a distinguished line of students whose actions reflect the values at the heart of the award: “A core of kindness, a drive to succeed, and the ability to face adversity with strength and optimism.”
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].