Federal Way Mirror Awards 2026 Athletes of the Year

Federal Way Mirror Awards 2026 Athletes of the Year

Federal Way Public Schools (FWPS) and the Federal Way Mirror teamed up at the Athlete of the Year Celebration to honor 16 scholar-athletes for their athleticism and hard work throughout the school year and name the top-voted male and female athlete as the 2026 Athlete of the Year. The program, held at Thomas Jefferson High School, included remarks from FWPS Executive Director of Equity and Athletics, John Yellam and FWPS Superintendent Dr. Dani Pfeiffer, a presentation of awards, and entertaining performances showcasing each high school’s unique school culture and pride.

Two male and two female student-athletes from each comprehensive high school were recognized individually with a custom-framed sports card and a reading of their sports and academic accolades. Decatur’s jazz choir entertained with the lively song "Love is a Tender Trap," Federal Way High School’s theater program performed a rendition of "Ex Wives" from the musical SIX, Thomas Jefferson High School brought their lively drumline, and Todd Beamer’s cheerleaders shared an energetic display of school spirit.

The highlighted athletes came from all sports – track and field, wrestling, gymnastics, basketball, and others. From each of the high schools, the nominated athletes were:

Decatur High School:

·      Amyah Johnson (Swim and Dive, Gymnastics, Tennis)

·      Amaya Simmons (Swim and Dive, Gymnastics, Track and Field)

·      Ethan Flavel (Swim, Baseball)

·      Viliami Puaauli (Football, Track and Field)

Federal Way High School

·      Marina Velasco-Bono (Soccer, Wrestling, Track and Field)

·      Abigail Collier (Cross Country, Track and Field)

·      Kaimani Baker (Football, Wrestling, Track and Field)

·      Zamarie Tellez (Football, Track and Field)

Thomas Jefferson High School

·      Callie Moore (Soccer, Tennis)

·      Divinity Adrian (Volleyball, Bowling, Track and Field)

·      DJ Smith (Football, Track and Field)

·      Caden Barclay (Cross Country, Wrestling, Track and Field)

Todd Beamer High School

·      Darlene “Don” Kuedituka (Girls Flag Football, Cheer, Track and Field)

·      Myla Felizardo (Gymnastics, Golf)

·      Austin Messer (Cross Country, Track and Field)

·      Dominic Flugstad (Football)

After acknowledging each athlete’s accomplishment, Federal Way Mirror sports reporter Ben Ray came up to announce the 2026 Athlete of the Year Award, decided by a popular vote through the Federal Way Mirror website. As a graduate of Decatur High School, he shared the enthusiasm and anticipation with the rest of the attendees, and ultimately awarded Decatur High School junior Ethan Flavel and Thomas Jefferson junior Callie Moore as the 2026 male and female Athlete of the Year!

“Tonight is an honor to be able to shine a spotlight on the hard work happening on our fields, courts, tracks, lanes, pools, mats, and courses.” shared Superintendent Dr. Pfeiffer at the event. “Success is built with consistent choices, like showing up early, staying committed when things get difficult, supporting teammates, and pushing yourself when no one is watching. As you look ahead, know that your future is wide open. And, if the dedication you’ve shown so far to this point is any indication, there is no limit to what you can accomplish.”

FWPS is proud to provide all scholars with the opportunity to participate in sports and to see so many star performing athletes. Thank you to Federal Way Mirror for your support, and to FWPS athletic staff who helped make this event possible, and to the scholar-athletes for being a peer model of sportsmanship and hard work. Finally, congratulations Ethan and Callie for being named 2026 Athlete of the Year!