Connor Martin ’14: EA student athletes are often recognized at a local level for their athletic performance and prowess, but rarely do they earn accolades at the state, national, or even international stage. Evan Butts ’14 and Margaux Paolino ’16 are two exceptions, earning post season recognition after helping the football and field hockey teams to great success in the fall.
Paolino has been nominated for the U.S. junior national field hockey team after her record breaking season for the churchwomen in which she earned 1st team All-Delco and 1st team All Inter-Ac honors. She represented our country in Montevideo, Uruguay from February 11th-15th, and depending on how the team fares in that qualifying tournament, Paolino could be heading to Nanjing, China in August for the 2014 Youth Olympic Games. When asked about the amazing opportunity, Paolino stated, “I’m truly grateful to be recognized and to be able to represent my country.” Playing at the international level is definitely different from the typical high school competition, as Paolino explained, “We are constantly learning new concepts, and acquiring new skills.” With aspirations of reaching the Olympics in China, Paolino emphasized, “We have high standards, and with all of our hard work, we set our goals for the very best we can achieve.” Her experience with playing some of the best in the world will undoubtedly benefit her and the EA program in her final two years. Despite garnering all these accomplishments, teammate Taryn Gallagher ’14 stated, “Everyone knows that Margaux is an incredible field hockey player, but only her teammates can attest to the fact that she is one of the most humble players ever.” Gallagher elaborated about Paolino, “She has been a crucial player of our team for the past two years. She’s an awesome forward; she’s quick and has great stick skills.”
Photo courtesy of Michael Leslie
Butts, a two-time 1st team All-Inter and 1st team All-Delco Tight End who will continue his playing career at the University of Virginia, has earned a roster spot on one of the nation’s most prestigious all-star games, the Big 33. The game has just recently shifted from Pennsylvania vs. Ohio to Pennsylvania vs. Maryland, and there has been at least one Big 33 alum in every Super Bowl in history. He was very grateful for the opportunity, stating, “It’s an honor to be selected to the PA Big 33 team with some of the best players in the state. I owe all my success to my parents, my brother, my coaches, and my teammates especially. I couldn’t have done it without any of them.” After leading EA to a combined 18-3 record in his junior and senior years, Butts was named captain and this year broke the single season record for receiving yards with 813. Paired with eight touchdown receptions and a stellar performance as a defensive end, Butts’ play on the field was impressive enough to also be recognized by both the Delaware County chapter of Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame and by the Maxwell Football club. Teammate and Co-captain Michael Watkins ’14 was never surprised by Butts’ success, stating, “Butts was always a leader by example. He worked harder than anyone else which translated to his performances on the field.”