Nashua PAL’s 2024 Night of Champions

Congratulations to Nashua PAL's 2024 Night of Champions Awardees!

Please read ahead to learn more about each awardee, and join us in thanking our Champion sponsors.

(Awardees listed alphabetically by last name; Youth awardees first, followed by adult awardees).

Thank you to Senator Maggie Hassan for your letter of support for Nashua PAL and our amazing 2024 Champions! Senator Maggie Hassan Letter 10.10.24

Thank you to Senator Jeanne Shaheen for your letter of support for Nashua PAL and our amazing 2024 Champions! Senator Jeanne Shaheen Letter 10.10.24

2024 PAL Female Cross Country Runner of the Year is 13-year-old Zoe Coler

Zoe Coler, an 8^th grade dynamo at Merrimack Middle School, has been named Nashua PAL’s Cross Country Runner of the Year for 2024. In her inaugural year with the Nashua PAL Striders, Zoe has already proven to be a powerhouse in the sport, making waves with her exceptional talent and unyielding determination.

Zoe’s journey in cross country began when she joined the Merrimack Middle School Cross Country team last year, quickly rising to prominence by winning the D1 NH Middle School State Championship. Her success continued as she joined the Nashua PAL Striders, where she dominated the New England District Meet, finishing in 1^st place. Zoe’s momentum carried her to the Northeast Regional Meet, where she secured an impressive 2^nd place, effortlessly qualifying for her 1^st national race at the Junior Olympics in Kentucky.

Zoe’s commitment and work ethic are truly remarkable, setting her apart as a young athlete with a bright future. Her enthusiasm for running and her eagerness to learn and improve speak volumes about her character. But beyond her athletic achievements, it’s Zoe’s infectious giggle and sense of humor that make her a joy to be around, endearing her to teammates and coaches alike.

Congratulations, Zoe, on your outstanding achievements in your first year of competitive running! Your dedication and positivity are an inspiration to all, and we can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next.

2024 PAL Cheerleader of the Year is 12-year-old Naomi Frotten

Naomi River Frotten, a rising 7^th grader at Kreiva Academy, has been named Nashua PAL’s Cheerleader of the Year for 2024. As a Flyer on her cheer team, Naomi has earned admiration for her incredible work ethic, loving heart, and kind soul.

Naomi is an exceptional student with a love for cheer that she sums up perfectly: “I could eat, sleep, and breathe cheer.” This passion is evident in everything she does, whether she’s on the mat, at practice, or in competition. Her coach, Emily Hamilton, praises Naomi as “an incredibly hardworking athlete” who gives 110% of herself to every aspect of the sport. “She’s the best friend, teammate, and player anyone could ask for,” Coach Hamilton adds, noting Naomi’s tireless efforts to achieve both team and personal goals. Naomi’s determination is unshakable—when faced with challenges, she never gives up, continually pushing herself to succeed and ensuring her team does as well.

Her kind and welcoming nature makes her a beloved teammate, always ready to greet new members with open arms and a warm smile. Coach Hamilton expresses her pride in Naomi’s accomplishments, saying, “If you had a team full of Naomi Frottens, you would be very lucky, and, you’d be unstoppable.” Beyond cheer, Naomi enjoys horseback riding, hanging out with her friends, and spending quality time with her family.

Congratulations, Naomi, on your well-deserved recognition as the 2024 PAL Cheerleader of the Year! Your dedication, leadership, and kindness shine through in everything you do, and, as Coach Emily summed up well, we “can’t wait to see where the future will take her, but wherever she goes we know she will do incredible things and bring joy and light to the people around her.”

2024 PAL Football Player of the Year is 13-year-old William Osborn

William Osborn, a remarkable 8^th grade multi-sport athlete at St. Christopher’s Academy, has earned the title of Nashua PAL’s Football Player of the Year for 2024. William is known for his exceptional athleticism, playing not only football but also basketball, lacrosse, and soccer. William is an honor roll student and an active member of the National Junior Honor Society.

On the football field, William plays both linebacker and running back, and his physical dominance and unmatched endurance make him a force to be reckoned with. His coach, Ben Desfosses, notes, “William is the only player that looks like he just got to Disneyland when practice starts and looks like you told him the rides are closed when practice ends.” William’s dedication is evident in every practice and game, where he gives 100% effort. His hard work and respectful attitude have earned him the Coaches Award and the PAL Football Player of the Year honor.

Off the field, William is a devoted brother to his three siblings. He enjoys spending time with family and friends, making them laugh, watching sports movies, and playing video games. Despite his busy sports schedule, William always finds time for the people who matter most to him.

Congratulations, William, on your outstanding achievements and for being named the 2024 PAL Football Player of the Year! Your athleticism, character, and dedication are an inspiration to all.

2024 PAL Track & Field Runner of the Year is 15-year-old Jaylyn Paul

Jaylyn Paul, a 9^th grade standout at Milford High School, has been named Nashua PAL’s Track and Field Runner of the Year for 2024. Participating in both Track and Field and Cross Country over the past six seasons (3 years) with PAL, Jaylyn has emerged as one of New England’s top distance runners.

During her Milford Middle School track season, Jaylyn was undefeated in the 1600-meter run, winning prestigious events like the Black Bear Invitational and Tri-County Championship, and breaking her school’s record! She placed 2^nd in the 1600-meter and 5^th in the 800-meter at the New Hampshire Middle School Meet of Champions. Then, Jaylyn turned her talents to the PAL Track & Field program, earning top spots in the 3000-meter and 1500-meter events at the New England Association (2^nd and 5^th respectively) and Region 1 Championship Meets (1^st and 3^rd). Jaylyn qualified for the Junior Olympic National Championship in Texas, where she finished 11^th out of 35 in the 3000-meter and 28^th out of 44 in the 1500-meter, competing against the nation’s best.

Her coach, Judy Biore, reflects on her journey, saying, “Jaylyn is a very dedicated and determined runner who trains and works tirelessly. She’s always asking for additional workouts and ways to improve. It has been a delight and privilege to serve as Jaylyn’s coach.”

Known for her dedication, Jaylyn consistently seeks out extra training opportunities and displays great sportsmanship, cheering on her teammates and forming friendships with competitors. She also excels academically, finishing 8th grade at Milford Middle School with High Honors and an A+ average.

Congratulations, Jaylyn, on your remarkable achievements and well-deserved recognition as the 2024 PAL Track and Field Runner of the Year!

2024 Male Cross Country Runner of the Year is 17-year-old Tristan Plumb

Tristan Plumb, an outstanding senior at Merrimack High School, has been named Nashua PAL’s 2024 Boys Cross Country Runner of the Year. While this is only his 2^nd season as a PAL Cross Country athlete, Tristan quickly established himself as a leader, both through his calm and composed demeanor and his leadership by example.

Tristan came into the 2023 PAL season on the back of a personal best, junior-year school season with Merrimack High School, breaking 18 minutes for the first time during his season opener, and bettering his previous PR by over 50 seconds by mid-October. When joining the Striders team in November, Tristan was excited to continue competing and assumed a particularly important leadership role as the oldest member of his training team.

His PAL season on the course was characteristically consistent. His patient and confident mental and physical approach to races led to him successfully qualifying for Nationals in Louisville. Tristan’s 2^nd USATF Nationals would be complicated by a weather delay, but, as he had all season, Tristan approached the uncertainty and associated challenges with optimism, patience, and unwavering determination to show up to the start line and give his best – an attitude that rallied his team as well! At his final race of the year, Tristan showed up with his best to tackle a muddied, challenging course. Tristan placed 100^th overall and 25^th in the 17-18 division, claiming All-American status, all while losing a shoe early in race and continuing without it through the finish.

Through every stage of this impressive All-American season put together by Tristan, his prevailing success was as a leader of his team, defined by his consistent work-ethic and inquisitive approach to the sport, every day seeking to learn more about himself and the sport. Not only focused on himself, Tristan maintained a keen eye to ensure his teammates were set up to succeed as well, leading by example with extra practices after school.

Balancing his cross country success with commitments to Merrimack High’s band and his academic pursuits, including his college search, Tristan’s work ethic and dedication are truly inspiring. Congratulations, Tristan, on an outstanding season and your well-deserved recognition as the 2024 PAL Boys Cross Country Runner of the Year!

2024 PAL Street Hockey Player of the Year is 13-year-old Jack Russin-Morgan

Jack Russin-Morgan, an exceptional 8^th grader at Fairgrounds Middle School, has been named Nashua PAL’s 2024 Street Hockey Player of the Year. Jack’s athletic talent, combined with his leadership on the court, set him apart this season. Playing both forward and defense, Jack was a key player for his team.

According to his PAL Street Hockey Coach, Officer Ben Stusse, “Jack is a demonstrated leader, and I quickly began counting on him as a co-coach for his team. He inspired his teammates: If another kid was looking tired, Jack would go talk to him and encourage him to keep going. His fantastic attitude led his team all the way to the championship!”

Stusse’s comments were echoed by Jack’s coaches from New England Stars and NYSL (Nashua Youth Soccer League) – Jack is the kind of player every coach dreams of having on their team. He arrives at the rink with a smile and an unmatched enthusiasm for the game. Jack consistently puts his team first, works hard, and listens attentively to feedback, showing a maturity beyond his years. His sportsmanship is evident both on and off the ice, and he’s known for stepping up to encourage his teammates and help build them back up after any mistakes. His former coaches praise him for his leadership, positive attitude, and unwavering effort. Coach Sean, New England Stars, said it best: “Jack always holds himself to a high standard on the ice but never forgets to put his teammates and friends first. Jack exemplifies every quality you'd expect in a young man receiving this award."

A multi-sport athlete, Jack also plays soccer and works part-time as a referee for NYSL. His interests include camping, gaming, rollerblading, going to the gym, and spending time with friends and family.

With his leadership skills, sportsmanship, and passion for the game, Jack is truly deserving of this recognition. Congratulations, Jack, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2024 Street Hockey Player of the Year!

2024 Jr. PAL of the Year is 17-year-old Jhon Almonte Vidal

Jhon Almonte Vidal, an incredible senior at Nashua High School South, is this year's PAL Junior of the Year. Jhon’s journey at Nashua PAL’s Youth Safe Haven began at age 10 when his family immigrated to the U.S. His mother, working two and three jobs, found a safe haven for him and his younger brothers at PAL. Jhon’s transformation – from the young boy that had a lot of constructive conversations with PAL staff to the bright, helpful young man he is today is nothing short of inspiring! Jhon's persistence and the support from his mentor, Zeke, and many PAL staff, helped him become a thriving young leader at PAL.

Over the years, Jhon has grown into a role model at PAL, actively participating in the Young Leaders Group for 3 years, facilitating games for younger PAL members, and even serving as Junior Staff. He recently attended the National PAL Youth Leadership Summit in Charlotte, meeting PAL youth from across the country. Jaela Solis, Youth Safe Haven Program Coordinator and Mentor, says, “Jhon’s transformation from a boy who avoided being seen by the PAL staff (in case we made him follow the rules...) to a confident role model for his younger brothers and peers is truly inspiring. His peers and the littles at PAL have watched him grow! He now greets staff as soon as he walks in, asks if we need help, and communicates when he will be back to see us—a testament to his growth and potential.” Jaela said, “Jhon is going to have an extremely bright future because he has the drive. He feels it – Jhon knows he has potential to reach this bright future, and he wants to show the world. I’m so proud of the young man he’s become.”

Jhon’s commitment to becoming the best person he can be extends beyond PAL— while navigating high school, he’s also exploring the world of real estate and shadowing those in the field. Jhon’s dreams of becoming an entrepreneur demonstrate his drive to build a bright future. Congratulations, Jhon, on being named the 2024 PAL Junior of the Year! Your resilience, leadership, and vision for the future are truly commendable.

2024 PAL Coach of the Year is Johanna Lisle Newbold

Johanna Lisle Newbold is proudly recognized as Nashua PAL’s Coach of the Year for 2024. Johanna’s remarkable dedication and leadership have revitalized and transformed the Nashua PAL/Gate City Striders youth Track and Field program.

Three years ago, Johanna was attending a planning meeting for the Gate City Strider when they asked for a volunteer to help revitalize the youth Track and Field program, which had been on a 2 year hiatus due to the pandemic. Johanna raised her hand to ask what was involved and soon found her characteristic enthusiasm and determination taking on the challenge of recruiting coaches, learning sign-up software, and relaunching the program in the spring of 2022. Although her initial motivation was to involve her own children, Johanna quickly caught the “coaching bug” and began embracing the fun of coaching and teaching kids about the sport of track and field.

An avid distance runner, Johanna embraced the opportunity to learn about the 12-16 events in youth track. She has been a constant presence at practices and meets, managing registration, communications, equipment purchases, and other administrative tasks. Under her leadership, the program has grown significantly, with 85 youth participants in 2024.

While holding a full-time job as a chiropractor and no longer having her own children in the program, Johanna remains fully committed to coaching and managing the program. She is known for her tireless support, from setting up at meets and providing extra snacks to cheering for every runner, jumper, and thrower athlete with her PAL jersey and big red bow. Johanna even ran the Boston Marathon last spring to raise thousands for track and field equipment.

Johanna’s dedication, hard work, and unwavering support make her an extremely deserving recipient of the 2024 Coach of the Year award. Congratulations, Johanna, for your exceptional contributions and commitment to the Nashua PAL track and field program!

2023 - Nadia Calden, Cheerleading
2022 - Mike Dunhom, Cross Country
2021 - Ben Desfosses, Football
2019 - Judy Biore, Cross Country
2018 - Jeff Kreick, Basketball
2017 - Mohammed Brooks, Boxing
2016 - Sergi Filonow, Football
2015 - Eric Fowler, Football
2014 - Tom Cassetty, Cross Country
2013 - Maureen MacKay, Cheerleading
2012 - Karen Long, Cross Country & Brendan Keegan, Football
2011—Frank Chimento, Boxing

2024 PAL of the Year is Brianne Healey

Brianne (Bri) Healey is recognized as Nashua PAL's 2024 PAL of the Year for her amazing commitment to mentoring youth! Bri’s journey with Nashua PAL began through with Sue Bee, Nashua PAL’s Mentor Coordinator, whom Bri has known her whole life, and quickly evolved into a powerful commitment to the community.

For Bri, volunteering is a deeply personal mission. Drawing from her own experiences of overcoming difficult challenges, she uses her role as a mentor and a panel member for Juvenile Court Diversion to help others navigate obstacles they might face. When Bri was asked what inspired her to begin volunteering with youth, she said, “I feel passionately about volunteering because I’ve been able to heal from hurtful past experiences, and I feel that I can share what I’ve learned with others so maybe they don’t have to experience the same hurt.” Her empathy and openness allow her to connect deeply with the kids at Nashua PAL, and she’s known for bringing the fun—whether she’s playing dodgeball at the Youth Safe Haven or enjoying every single water slide at Water Country with the PAL kids.

Despite her busy schedule, Bri always finds time to be present for PAL youth. PAL staff noticed Bri taking great pride in fostering relationships and bringing joy into the lives of others. Sue Bee speaks to Bri’s impact: “I have loved Brianne since the day she was born, and she has always brought a special kind of life, love, and adventure wherever she went. I am proud of the generous, thoughtful, strong, and caring person she has become, and it brings me so much joy knowing that she has made such meaningful connections with the PAL kids. I hope this recognition helps her to fully understand the profound impact she is having on our community.”

Bri grew up in Southern New Hampshire, and fell in love with Nashua after becoming involved with PAL. In addition to her career as a realtor, she actively volunteers with several community programs, including Nashua and Manchester court diversion as a panel member, Manchester PAL Futures as a mentor, and Family Promise of Southern NH as a babysitter.

Bri Healey’s dedication, compassion, and ability to build meaningful connections make her a truly deserving recipient of Nashua PAL’s 2024 PAL of the Year.