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TRUE HEROES OF THE GAME

KYLE NOLAN BRANFORD HIGH SCHOOL

A July 2009 article in the New Haven Register during his sophomore year in high school detailed Nolan having to overcome open-heart surgery in March of that year. Nolan had a rare congenital heart disorder known as “partial anomalous pulmonary venous return,” in which blood flow from a few of the pulmonary veins return to the right atrium instead of the left atrium. Nolan not only overcame the extensive open-heart surgery and rehabilitation, he also went on to co-captain the Hornets in both varsity football and basketball. Nolan was the starting quarterback for the football team and led Branford varsity basketball in both scoring and rebounding. In addition, he is a member of the National Honor Society.

“He is truly a student-athlete who has an extreme amount of courage and dedication,” Athletic Director Jake Palluzzi said. “Kyle is a person who always will look out for the best interest of his teammates and is a consummate team guy. He is a dream to coach.”

- Information taken from the New Haven Register

MEGHAN DERKEN HAND HIGH SCHOOL

Meghan Derken’s experiences as a student-athlete and loyal member of the community have taken her on quite a journey over the last few years. Meghan, a multi-sport athlete and high-honors student at Hand High School in Madison, Connecticut, volunteered for two summers working with children at Dr. Joseph McNamara’s Pediatric Oncology office through Circle of Care. She also aided in the renovation of a community center at the Valley Street Townhouse Complex, where she collected and organized donations of money, furniture, and supplies. Lastly, she has volunteered at several independent charity walks/athletic events, including the Buddy Walk for Down Syndrome, the Crop Walk for Hunger, Roses for Autism events, and the Madison Triathlon.

Outside of her community service and charitable work, Meghan played varsity soccer for three years, during which she earned All-Conference and All-State honors junior year, and earned All-Conference, All-Area, All-State, and All-New England honors senior year. She also ran varsity track for four years and set a number of school records. She currently holds the indoor 400m and 600m records, along with the indoor 4x400m and 4x800m records. She earned All-Conference in Winter 2009 and 2010 as well as in Spring of 2010. Finally, she earned All-State in the 600m (won Class L championships) and was selected for the All-Area team in 2010. Meghan has competed at four National Championship meets.

“Meghan embodies all the good character traits we strive to achieve and represent,” said Hand Athletic Director Craig Semple. “She is incredibly gifted athletically and academically. She is accomplished at the highest levels in both disciplines, because she is a tireless worker, dedicated to constantly improve, and exudes outstanding leadership through example. We are very proud of her, she is great person, and we expect her to continue on the path of future success in all the challenges that are in front of her.”

Meghan is climbing the mountain to fulfill her potential as a great student, athlete, and person. Her achievements both on and off the athletic field are stellar examples of success for student-athletes all around the world.

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