News & Events

Norfolk Academy honored student-athletes and teacher-coaches at a fun-filled Varsity Athletic Celebration on Monday night, May 12, recognizing their many accomplishments during the fall, winter, and spring seasons (the last of which certainly has more trophies on the way).

Among the highlights: Three-sport athletes Andersen Legum '25 and Will Foley '25 spoke about how their teams were supportive and caring through both wins and losses.

Legum played tennis, basketball, and lacrosse. She came to NA in eighth grade and said athletic teams were what most gave her a sense of Bulldog community.

“The most important win has been the friendships and community that has been built competing for NA," Legum said. “Instead of being just on a team or part of a program, what you create is a family and a start of life-long relationships. This is what makes NA so unforgettable."

Foley played basketball, lacrosse, and football. He talked about the many lessons he learned moving up the ranks: Being early, resilience, expecting excellence, and handling setbacks among them.

“Norfolk Academy has instilled in me a team-first attitude," Foley said.

Director of Athletics Chad Byler gave an anecdote from this spring that embodies the goal of the program. When varsity baseball player Peter Galiotos '25 learned that an opponent had recently lost a loved one, he got the Bulldogs to tip their caps to and applaud that opponent as he stepped to the plate as a gesture of support. The opponent was so touched he sent a thank you note that night.

“These are the moments that define us, not just as athletes but as human beings," Byler said. “Today we salute all of you who displayed sportsmanship, leadership, and empathy. This is the kind of service we want to uplift, because it makes our community and our world a better place."