On March 6, Trinity seniors gathered for one of the most memorable nights of the year at senior prom, where the annual Shammy Awards highlighted the accomplishments, character and dedication of the Class of 2026. While the awards recognize excellence across a wide range of areas, the stories behind each winner are what truly define the night.

The Shammy Awards celebrate students who have made a lasting impact on Trinity through athletics, academics, leadership and the arts. This year’s winners reflect not just talent, but the work, perseverance and relationships built over four years.

For many winners, the recognition came as a surprise. Mr. Football winner Nate Shields said he felt appreciated and respected by his classmates and honored to receive the award. Looking back, he pointed to his sophomore season as a turning point, when he had to outwork others to earn time on the field. That mindset stayed with him throughout his career. He emphasized trusting teammates and preparation in big moments, something that helped him succeed and build strong bonds that will last beyond high school.

In the performing arts, Will Dietzel’s journey shows a different kind of dedication. Winning Mr. Performing Arts was both exciting and unexpected for him, but it represents years of work that many students never see. From long rehearsals during the week to even longer weekends, the commitment goes far beyond what happens on stage. Dietzel reflected on roles like Shakespeare in “Something Rotten” and his roles in “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” and “Newsies” as defining moments, each one pushing him further as a performer. He credited Ms. Reedy with helping him grow and pushing him to believe in himself. Through theater, he learned time management and how to chase difficult goals, skills he plans to carry forward as he looks to continue acting in the future.

Mr. Visual Arts winner Griffin Brunstetter also highlighted the work that often goes unnoticed. Known for his role in running Trinity’s social media, Griffin explained that while people see the final posts, they do not always realize the hours spent creating graphics, managing content and capturing events. He said winning the award meant a lot because it showed appreciation beyond likes and reposts. His involvement in student-run media, especially with football content, gave him a clear direction moving forward. Griffin plans to continue in digital media and hopes to work in the sports industry.

Athletics were strongly represented across multiple awards, with each athlete sharing a similar theme of hard work and consistency. Marty Wicinski, Mr. Fall Sports, recalled his junior-year goal against St. X as a standout moment and credited his dad with always pushing him and supporting his development. He said soccer helped him build friendships and learn how to work in a team environment, something he will take with him as he continues playing at Colgate.

On the baseball side, Nolan Hosking, Mr. Baseball, described his award as surprising but motivating. He pointed to his home run against PRP as a key moment, but also emphasized the daily work behind the scenes, including practices, lifting and studying opposing pitchers. He credited Coach Troutman with shaping him into the player he is today and said the sport has taught him how to stay humble and consistent. Hosking also encouraged students to come out and support the team this season.

Beyond athletics and arts, the Shammy Awards also recognize leadership, character and academic excellence. While each winner has a different story, a common theme connects them all. Success at Trinity is not just about talent. It is about showing up every day, putting in the work and building relationships along the way.

The full list of Shamrock Award winners for the Class of 2026 includes:

Mr. Performing Arts: Will Dietzel
Mr. Football: Nate Shields
Mr. Visual Arts: Griffin Brunstetter
Mr. Winter Sports: Henson Clark
Mr. Fall Sports: Marty Wicinski
Mr. Work Ethic: Owen Strebel
Mr. Spring Sports: Will McCauley
Mr. Baseball: Nolan Hosking
Mr. Basketball: Jaden Smith
Mr. Trinity: John Ellenbrand
Mr. Character: CJ Taylor
Mr. Scholarship: Max Corbett

As the Class of 2026 prepares to graduate, the Shammy Awards serve as a reminder of everything these students have accomplished. More importantly, they highlight the effort, growth and stories that got them there.