Nashua PAL’s 2025 Night of Champions

Awardees for 2025 are being announced! They are in alphabetical order below

In the meantime, check out our previous Champions below!

Check out PAL's 2024 Awardees!

Check out PAL's 2023 Awardees!

Check out PAL's 2022 Awardees!

Check out PAL's 2021 Awardees!

2025 PAL Football Player of the Year is Wesley Follansbee

Congratulations to Wesley Follansbee, age 13, an inspiring and determined athlete at Pennichuck Middle School, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Football Player of the Year!

Wesley has been a member of the PAL Storm Football program for several seasons, playing both quarterback and cornerback, and has consistently shown leadership, grit, and a passion for the game. Wesley has always played up an age level to compete alongside his older brother Brayden. Despite being one of the smallest and youngest players on the field, Wesley’s heart, tenacity, and drive have always set him apart.

Coach Ben Desfosses said, “Wesley may have been one of the youngest... but, the smallest dogs have the biggest heart and the most fight.” In his final PAL season, he has emerged as a true leader and starting quarterback, guiding his teammates with skill and integrity both on and off the field. “Wesley has risen to be a leader and our starting quarterback. He’s no longer the little guy trying to keep up with the older kids. He is now the leader of young men. We couldn’t think of a more deserving player for this award. We hope all players can follow his lead to show the same amount of heart, tenacity, and determination on the football field."

Off the field, Wesley excels in the classroom, earning A Honor Roll for the past three years, and has achieved recognition in basketball, including the Coaches Award in Biddy Basketball, and placement on the All-Star Team. Beyond sports, he enjoys music and spending time joking and talking with friends.

Congratulations, Wesley, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Football Player of the Year!

2025 Jr. PAL of the Year is Fatima Garcia

Congratulations to Fatima Garcia, age 17, an outstanding senior at Nashua South High School, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Jr. PAL of the Year!

A PAL Youth Safe Haven member since age 7, Fatima first followed in her sisters’ footsteps. At just 2 years old, Fatima would join her mom to walk her older sisters, Perla and Jenny, to PAL. Over the years, Fatima has grown into a confident, compassionate, and inspiring leader, making a meaningful impact on both younger kids and her peers.

Jaela Solis, Nashua PAL’s Downtown Director and mentor, shared a story that highlights Fatima’s legendary kindness and selflessness: Earlier this year, while volunteering to help an elderly community member move out of her house, Fatima took the time to talk with her about life and future plans. The community member was so impressed by Fatima’s enthusiasm, goals, and kindness that she surprised Fatima by gifting her a car. Fatima’s very first! Fatima is always ready to help, whether leading younger members in activities, assisting on field trips, or lending a hand in the community.

Jaela shared this about Fatima, “She has overcome a lot of challenges, and throughout, she chooses compassion and connection. She’s aware that life can be full of obstacles and you may only get one chance, so she gives her very best. She wastes no opportunities.”

Jaela said, “She has so much patience and heart for kids that may not know where they fit yet – which is an uncommon trait.” Fatima is pursuing a future in early childhood education and dreams of becoming a flight attendant. She is independent, confident in her decisions, and excels at supporting children who may be struggling to find their place. Outside of school and PAL, Fatima works very hard at her job and she’s thrilled to welcome her first niece or nephew soon. Previously named Jr. PAL of the Year in 2023, Fatima continues to shine as a role model!

Congratulations, Fatima, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Jr. PAL of the Year!

2025 PAL Female Cross Country Runner AND Track & Field Athlete of the Year is Samantha Hill

Congratulations to Samantha Hill, age 15, an extraordinary student at Merrimack High School, on being named BOTH Nashua PAL’s 2025 Female Track & Field Athlete of the Year and Female Cross Country Runner of the Year 2025!

Nashua PAL’s Cross Country and Track & Field coaches wholeheartedly agreed that Samantha Hill is the deserving awardee for both awards. Samantha began her PAL journey with Cross Country in the fall of 2022 while attending Merrimack Middle School. In spring 2023, she expanded into Track & Field as a middle- to long-distance runner and long jumper. Her dedication to her team, leadership with younger athletes, unwavering sportsmanship, and determination to grow as an athlete are truly unmatched.

In her first season of Cross Country, Samantha didn’t advance past the Association Meet, but she had fallen in love with the sport. She knew she had found her people and made it her mission to return stronger the following year. She committed to weekly road runs, and the hard work paid off. In 2023, she earned a spot on the PAL U13–14 Girls’ A Team, sailed through the Association Meet, crushed Regionals, and advanced to Nationals – all while setting a new personal record at every race.

Samantha’s grit was tested again in 2024 when she ran at Regionals just days after being cleared from walking pneumonia to ensure her 5K team advanced to Nationals. Her perseverance and team-first mindset embody the very best of PAL athletics.

On the track, Samantha has proven herself to be a versatile competitor. During the 2025 Track & Field season, she qualified for Regionals in multiple relay events – including the 4x100, 4x400, and most recently the 4x800 – as well as solo events such as the 800m, 1500m, and 3000m. Her persistence and improvement in long jump, one of the most technical events, highlight her dedication and athleticism. She has now competed at Regionals in back-to-back seasons, continuing to achieve new personal records along the way.

Equally impressive is Samantha’s commitment to mentoring younger athletes. Coach Kristen Bechard said, “As a coach, what stands out to me most about Samantha is not just her performance, but her heart. She knows the younger athletes by name, stays to cheer for their races, and offers words of encouragement. Those small acts of kindness, along with the way she models where hard work and determination can take you, are just as important to recognize as our top finishes.” Outside of athletics, Samantha is an honor roll student at Merrimack High School, plays percussion in the MHS band, and enjoys cooking.

Congratulations, Samantha, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Female Track & Field Athlete of the Year AND Female Cross Country Runner of the Year!

2025 PAL Cheerleader of the Year is Amayah Mayes

Congratulations to Amayah Mayes, age 12, a rising star at McCarthy Middle School, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Cheerleader of the Year!

Amayah has been a member of the PAL Cheer program for several seasons, serving as a back-spot and steadily growing into a confident, skilled, and inspiring athlete. Amayah’s mom highlighted, “I've seen the drive to learn things and be the best version of herself with the help of cheer and her wonderful coaches.” Last season, she took on the challenge of cheering for both PAL and her school team while maintaining her academic excellence. At school, she earned High Honors for the second and third trimesters after already receiving Honor Roll in the first trimester – all while practicing almost every day!

Coach Emily Hamilton shared, "Amayah is one of the most dedicated athletes I’ve ever had the privilege of coaching. From the day I met her she has worked tirelessly to become a better athlete than the day before and she has succeeded. She is an asset to me not only as a skilled cheerleader but as someone I can always rely on to help teach.”

This past summer, Amayah eagerly helped with the younger cheer clinic, sharing her skills and enthusiasm with the next generation of athletes. She attended every clinic, even those below her level, to support and guide younger athletes. Amayah worked with each new cheerleader, helping them learn stunts, jumps, and cheers, always offering encouragement and genuine friendship. During last winter season, Amayah juggled her demanding middle school schedule while practicing seven days a week. Coach Emily went on to say, “She practices how she performs, with energy and precision. Amayah embodies everything a cheerleader should be and I am so proud of the athlete and woman she is becoming. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for her!"

Outside of cheer, Amayah enjoys spending time with friends and being outdoors. She also attends the PAL Youth Safe Haven program. Her dedication, leadership, and positive attitude make her a true role model for all PAL athletes.

Congratulations, Amayah, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Cheerleader of the Year!

2025 PAL Basketball Player of the Year is Francisco Rodriguez-Malecon

Congratulations to Francisco Rodriguez-Malecon, age 17, a standout student at Nashua High School North, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Basketball Player of the Year!

PAL Gate City Thunder Basketball coaching staff: Head Coach Shawn Nieves and assistants Angel Amparo and Gary Spearman, had no hesitation in naming Francisco Rodriguez-Malecon as the PAL’s 2025 Basketball Player of the Year. In his very first year on the squad, Francisco quickly established himself as both the team’s top scorer and floor leader, directing plays, communicating with teammates, and setting the tone on both offense and defense.

At just 16 years old, Francisco is a junior at Nashua South High School, where his favorite subjects are English and Math. His PAL journey began in April 2024, soon after his family’s arrival from the Dominican Republic. His cousin — and now PAL Basketball teammate — Kelian DeJesus introduced him to the PAL St. Patrick’s Gym downtown, and Francisco has been an afterschool regular ever since.

Francisco’s drive and love for the game have already made an impact at the high school level. He made the Nashua South varsity team as a sophomore and is eagerly preparing for the upcoming season. Longtime South head coach Nate Mazerolle shared: “Francisco is one of the most devoted and passionate basketball players I have ever encountered. He loves the game and wants to continually improve. He cherishes being on the South team and is a tremendous teammate who loves to see others succeed. And, he is an even better young man. He is ready to shock the state in high school hoop.”

Congratulations, Francisco, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Basketball Player of the Year!

2025 PAL Male Cross Country Runner of the Year is Will Scott

Congratulations to Will Scott, age 16, a committed leader at Hollis-Brookline High School, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Male Cross Country Runner of the Year!

A member of the PAL Cross Country program since 2022, Will has continued to increase his impact on the program and prove himself a leader amongst his teammates, serving as an example of the impact of dedication and hard work. Will began his PAL career as a 14-year-old and quickly became a key piece of the Striders’ 13-14 year old team that year, placing sixth and then fifth on the team at Associations and Regionals before placing third on his team at Nationals in Texas, continuing to improve and increase his positive impact on the team.

In 2023, following his freshman year at Hollis-Brookline High School, Will returned to PAL to help advance the 15-18 year old team to Nationals, scoring in the top five on his team at Associations and Regionals and placing third on his team at the National Championship.

Entering the 2024 PAL season after a breakout sophomore year, Will immediately stepped into a leadership role as the lead runner for the 15-18 year old team. For the third consecutive year, he helped guide a team to the National Championship, placing 54th overall and finishing in the top 35 for the 15-16 sub-division in Indiana. Over his three years with PAL, Will has improved from a 15:38 4K in 2022 to a 17:25 5K in 2024, setting a new personal record each season.

He attends every practice and workout, regardless of weather or conditions, and leads by example. Coach Ethan Michaud said, “Ethan’s dedication to daily improvement and leadership by example have made a positive impact on the entire team. Will’s humility, steady and consistent approach, and accountability have rubbed off on his teammates and will continue to have an impact on the PAL program as he becomes an upperclassman this year heading into the 2025 season.”

Poised for continued success, Will has become an important foundation for both the 13-14 and 15-18 year old teams – both teams look to benefit from his focused and steadfast approach to his team and the sport of cross country.

Congratulations, Will, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Male Cross Country Runner of the Year!

2025 PAL Male Track & Field Athlete of the Year is Jake Shepard

Congratulations to Jake Shepard, age 12, a rising star at World Academy, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Male Track & Field Athlete of the Year!

Jake has been a part of the PAL family since he was 8 years old, starting in the Cross Country program and participating every year in both Cross Country and Track & Field. Over his four seasons on the track, Jake has distinguished himself as an incredibly motivated and versatile athlete, training across multiple disciplines. His dedication and relentless drive have allowed him to set ambitious goals — and not just meet them, but surpass them.

Jake, a student at World Academy, finished 6th grade with high honors and has consistently shown he is unafraid of challenges. From competing against older students in middle school to racing unattached at the USATF National Indoor Championship Meet in New York, where he placed 6th in the 800-meter, Jake continually proves that hard work and perseverance pay off.

This spring, Jake made a bold move by running the 3000-meter for the first time at the New England Association Meet, finishing 2nd, while also winning the 400- and 1500-meter events in personal record times. At the Region 1 Championship Meet, he won the 1500-meter again in PR time and placed 2nd in both the 400- and 3000-meter events. The pinnacle of his season came at the USATF National Championship Meet in Savannah, where he placed 3rd in the 1500-meter and 5th in the 3000-meter, improving his PR by 12 seconds in just his third race of the event.

Coach Judy Boire shared, "In all my 40 years of coaching, I have truly not ever been as shocked by some of the incredible races this young man has pulled off. His competitive drive is amazing and unmatched, and his future in running is very bright! He is extremely coachable, soaking in any and all training and racing tips I give him and is just a joy to coach!" Off the track, Jake enjoys playing club soccer, futsal, and trying new track and field events during practice, keeping both his skills and joy for the sport growing.

Congratulations, Jake, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Male Track and Field Athlete of the Year!

2025 PAL Boxer of the Year is Marco Uribe

Congratulations to Marco Uribe, age 19, a fierce and determined athlete, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Boxer of the Year! Marco is a Nashua PAL Boxing standout and a champion in every sense. Over the course of his decorated career, Marco has earned titles including Silver Mitten Champion, Ohio State National Champion, and Golden Gloves runner-up, demonstrating his skill, focus, and commitment inside the ring.

But Marco’s story is about more than just wins. His dedication, perseverance, and passion set him apart, inspiring younger boxers and teammates at every practice and competition. He shows that hard work, discipline, and heart are just as important as talent.

Coach Mo Brooks emphasizes that Marco’s journey is a “demonstration to the power of hard work and determination, and the impact a committed athlete can have on a team and community.” His leadership and sportsmanship make him a role model for boxers of all ages.

Congratulations, Marco, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Boxer of the Year!

2025 PAL Street Hockey Player of the Year is Josiah Zeman

Congratulations to Josiah Zeman, age 13, an exceptional multi-sport athlete and standout student at St. Christopher Academy, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Street Hockey Player of the Year!

Josiah is a passionate and dynamic competitor, playing lacrosse, soccer, basketball, golf, and street hockey – along with being a fierce ultimate frisbee player. Street Hockey Coach Officer Ben Stusse described Josiah’s street hockey play as, “so fun to watch on the court – especially when he pulls out his incredible trick shot!” On the street hockey court, his enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and energy made him the glue on St. Christopher’s team. Officer Ben Stusse said, “Josiah’s high energy, passion, and charisma on the court elevated the level of play for all the street hockey teams.”

Josiah also plays attack for the NH Tomahawks Lacrosse Club, where he continues to sharpen his skills as a versatile and dedicated athlete. Josiah is the youngest of four brothers – all serious athletes – and, outside his multiple sports interests, enjoys spending time with his family, watching movies, playing video games, and riding his bike.

Congratulations, Josiah, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Street Hockey Player of the Year!

2025 PAL Coach of the Year is Gary Henderson