In a heartwarming ceremony held at Great Mills High School, St. Mary’s County celebrated the outstanding young athletes who received the prestigious 2025 Will Smith Leadership Award. The Department of Recreation & Parks organized the event to honor 8th-grade players who have not only excelled in sports but have also demonstrated exceptional leadership, sportsmanship, and mentorship within the community’s youth basketball program.
The Will Smith Leadership Award, established in 2009, pays tribute to the remarkable legacy of Will Smith, a former participant in the county’s basketball league. Will was known for his infectious enthusiasm, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his teammates and coaches. Tragically, his life was cut short in 2008 while attending Becker College in Massachusetts. His family, including his parents, Jeanne and William Smith, and his brother, Timothy, graced the ceremony to present the awards in his memory.
Jeanne Smith, speaking at the event, shared touching reflections on her son’s enduring impact and the importance of recognizing young athletes who embody his spirit. She expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to witness Will’s legacy live on through the program and commended the recipients for their commitment to uplifting those around them.
Recognizing Exceptional Youth Athletes
The prestigious award is bestowed upon players who have actively participated in the league from 6th through 8th grade, displaying a remarkable passion for the game while fostering a positive and inclusive environment for their teammates. Whether through mentoring younger players, demonstrating outstanding sportsmanship, or exemplifying perseverance and respect, each recipient has left a lasting mark on the program in a significant way.
This year’s deserving honorees include Aiden Mills, Alex Pope, Antonio White, Blake Fleming, Brody Lynch, Brooklyn Gray, Chandler Boyd, Cooper Wieber, Demi Carroll, Desiree Dyson, Gaige Wenk, Jack Loewe, Jacob Copeland, Jamar Somerville, Jamarion Jefferson, Keimari Baskin, Kendrick Berry, Khloe Jarman, Liam Klier, Makhai Berry, Maxwell Shubrooks, Nasir Hebb, Noah Earhart, and Quintin Dorn.
Celebrating Leadership in Youth Sports
During the ceremony, Recreation & Parks Director Raymond Bivens praised the young athletes for their remarkable achievements and underscored the significance of leadership in youth sports. He emphasized that basketball is not just about skill but also about character, teamwork, and making a positive impact both on and off the court.
As St. Mary’s County continues to invest in youth sports programs, the Will Smith Leadership Award stands as a beacon of recognition for the values that mold strong athletes and leaders. Those interested in learning more about the youth basketball league and other recreational programs in St. Mary’s County can find additional information at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/recreate.
As we celebrate the remarkable achievements of these exceptional young athletes, let us be inspired by their dedication, sportsmanship, and leadership on and off the court. May their stories serve as a reminder of the transformative power of sports in shaping character and building community.
