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Norfolk Academy's varsity sailing team has enjoyed much success in recent years, but the team prides itself on more than victories and championships.

This fall, NA won the Bullivant Sportsmanship Award for high school sailing. The Bullivant Trophy is awarded to sailors recognized by their district as outstanding examples of that most desirable characteristic of sportsmanship. The Interscholastic Sailing Association Board of Directors unanimously voted Norfolk Academy this year's winners.

The award takes into account the team's attitude and conduct ashore and afloat, its respect for boats and equipment, and its ability to take adversity in stride. 

“My philosophy for the sailing program is to develop student-athletes into morally strong people, as well as help them fulfill their sailing goals and potential," Teacher-Coach Tom Etheridge said. “This award not only recognizes last year’s team, but also the culture we have developed over the past seven years within the Norfolk Academy Sailing program."

By winning the Bullivant award, Norfolk Academy gains consideration from U.S. Sailing for the national W. Van Alan Clark Award. 

“This is a testament to Coach Etheridge and his dedication and commitment to teaching his team character and respect, day in a day out," Director of Athletics Chad Byler said. 

Led by Etheridge, who also teaches Lower School EDI, Norfolk Academy finished second this fall at the TCIS Fleet Championship. The team earned top-five finishes in the VISA Varsity Fleet Championships and MASSA Team Race Championship.

Last school year, varsity sailing earned VISA Team Race Championships in both the fall and spring. The groups did not lose a race in either competition. Additionally, the spring team earned a spot in High School Nationals. Three members of the Class of 2023 are on collegiate sailing teams: Henry Allgeier, who also earned National Merit Semi-Finalist honors, is at the U.S. Naval Academy; Rebecca Schill is at Bowdoin; and Audrey Permenter is at Tulane University.