ST. PATRICK’S STANDOUT TARYN STOUKAS CAPTURES PRESTIGIOUS STEFANKO AWARD

The St. Clair Catholic District School Board is pleased to announce that Taryn Stoukas, a graduating senior at St. Patrick’s Catholic High School, has been named a recipient of the prestigious Stefanko Award.

The annual honour recognizes a graduating male and female secondary student who demonstrates excellence in athletics and academics, along with exceptional commitment to community service.

In addition to a personal bursary and commemorative plaque, Stoukas brings the Stefanko Award trophy to St. Patrick’s where it will be displayed for the upcoming school year.

Stoukas established herself as a multi-sport powerhouse over her four years at St. Patrick’s, serving as team captain and competing in basketball, volleyball, and soccer. She capped off her impressive secondary school athletic career by helping the Fighting Irish capture an OFSAA silver medal in basketball.

Off the court, Stoukas excelled academically at St. Patrick’s, achieving a 92.6% average in her Grade 12 year. She is a perennial member of the Honours Society and has received top academic subject awards, including the French Language Award for the highest average in French Immersion.

Stoukas’ impact extends beyond academics and athletics. She has dedicated her time as a volunteer coach for the Special Olympics Basketball tournament hosted at St. Patrick's. Her exceptional character shone brightly during a highly competitive cooperative education placement at Bluewater Health in the Physiotherapy department and the Hospital Elder Life Program (H.E.L.P.).

Stoukas is set to continue her academic and athletic journey this fall at Wilfrid Laurier University where she will be studying kinesiology and playing for the Laurier Golden Hawks Women’s Basketball team.

The male recipient of the Stefanko Award was Yarko Zelenchuk from Lambton Central Collegiate & Vocational Institute.