Trio of students honoured at Parry Awards ceremony
A trio of Chatham students have a head-start as they prepare for university in the fall.
The annual Dr. Jack Parry Awards were handed out at the Ursuline College theatre on June 9, recognizing academic and athletic excellence in graduating students from nine of Chatham-Kent’s high schools.
In a rare tie, two male nominees were honoured, including Noah Brinkman from John McGregor Secondary School.
“I’m super honoured to receive (this award,) I want to give thanks to my teammates who’ve always been there for me, my coaches who guided me and have been there for me and shaped me into who I am, and, obviously, my parents for always being there for me.”
Brinkman captained 10 athletic teams during his four years at McGregor and earned over 750 volunteer hours outside of school.
Ian Costello from Chatham-Kent Secondary School was also recognized for his achievements.
“Truly, it’s an honour to be up here, I know how much of a prestigious award this is. I’m just really proud of how far I’ve come in high school and all my involvement.”
Among his accomplishments, Costello was named Junior Athlete of the Year in Grade 10, won Coach’s Choice and MVP, and placed seventh at OFSAA. As a Grade 11 student, he broke a 45-year-old school discus record, and in Grade 12, won LKSSAA and SWOSSAA titles.
Sophia Metcalfe from Lambton Kent Composite School earned the female honours.
“I am so very grateful for getting this award, it’s such an honour. There were a lot of hard=-working, dedicated nominees up there. I’m very thankful for my family, the Jack Parry family, the selection committee. I know a lot of dedication and planning goes into this night.”
Metcalfe was part of several LKSSAA and SWOSSAA winning teams during her high school career, and was named captain of numerous teams. She also served as a vital part of the LKCS school community, serving as Prime Minister this past year.
The winners walk away with a $1000 scholarship, sponsored by the Parry family.
The Dr. Jack Parry Awards were first handed out in Chatham-Kent in 1994, recognizing a balanced high degree of athletic ability, scholastic excellence, and contributions outside the classroom to the school and community.
2026 Nominees:
Blenheim District High School
Regan Stewart
Chatham Christian High School
Grace Medenblik
Judah Fitch
Chatham-Kent Secondary School
Elizabeth Newcombe
Ian Costello
Ecole Secondaire de Pain Court
Kaylene Brophy
J.T. Barrett
John McGregor Secondary School
Emma Foster
Noah Brinkman
Lambton Kent Composite School
Sophia Metcalfe
Kurtis Smith
Tilbury District High School
Andy Baker
Jordan Sasson
Ursuline College Chatham
Peyton Nicholson
Gibson Dunlop
Wallaceburg District Secondary School
Jillian Burritt
Ethan Rosseel