Town Council Honors Fall Athletes

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Vasity volleyball teammates Lauren Gaskin, Kelly Wirth, Natalie Meniktas and Cassidy Abel display a physical copy of the proclamation issued to them by the Moraga Town Council.

Luther Kuefner, Staff Writer

The Moraga Town Council issued proclamations to State Cross Country Champion Aidan Goltra and varsity girls’ volleyball team at their Jan 23 meeting. The proclamations, issued by Mayor Dave Trotter, recognized the feats each recipient accomplished over the high school fall sports season. “I think it is important for the Town to formally recognize these outstanding athletic achievements by the Campo sports teams,” said Trotter.

The first proclamation was issued to Goltra, outlining highlights from his cross country season. He broke the school records for the 3 mile Hayward High School course, running 15:30, and the 5 kilometer Woodward Park course, where he finished in 15:18.

Goltra was also recognized for being named the 2012 Northern California “Runner of the Year” by a panel of section representatives. Goltra said, “I’m very touched that the town of Moraga recognized me. It’s cool that Moraga recognizes its NCS champions, and now I’m in the company of past high-achieving athletes.”

Following Goltra, the second proclamation was issued to the varsity girls’ volleyball team. The volleyball team was praised for their strong record at the conclusion of the season (30-5) and overall strong character as a team. Varsity volleyball co-captain and DFAL Most Valuable Player Annie Shurtz said, “The season was super successful on paper, as well as an emotional experience for all of us.”

Goltra and the volleyball team had a day commemorated for their achievements. January 23, 2013 was proclaimed as “Aidan Goltra Day” and “Campolindo Girls Volleyball Day.”

Each recipient also had the opportunity to stand in front of the Town Council and be recognized by the audience. Cross country teammate Haley Shipway attended in support of Goltra. “I was overcome with emotions, I was very proud,” said Shipway.

After the proclamations were issued, Principal John Walker commended all of the recipients in an informal speech to the council. “You represented the school and the town very ably, with passion and poise and, obviously, a tremendous amount of success,” said Walker. “It’s a tremendous honor, not only for our student athletes, but for the Campolindo community as a whole.”