2024 Vonn Bell Awards

Throughout an athletic journey, some special players stand out and go above and beyond any expectations and norms. The Vonn Bell Award is a prestigious achievement awarded to those who show exceptional advancements throughout their high school sporting career. A total of 8 athletes were nominated for the award, named after the former Ridgeland athlete Vonn Bell, who now plays for the Cincinnati Bengals.

The winners were John Hill and Jamiah Lewis. Hill, a Huntingdon College signee for basketball, is a four-year letterman and a leader on the basketball team that led Ridgeland to hosting its first GHSA playoff game. Lewis, a sophomore, is a three-sport letterwoman in volleyball, basketball, and track. Lewis was the 6-AAA player of the year in basketball while breaking several school records in track.

Among the male nominees were Seth Broadous, Braylon Pritchett, and William Tredy, each of whom has made significant contributions to their sports. Senior Broadous, a 4-year letterman in soccer and football, has not only excelled on the field but also shared his faith and passion for sports. Junior Pritchett, the 2023 Vonn Bell award winner, has a string of accolades to his name, including the Weight-lifting State Champion, Georgia Positive Athlete, and Walker County Dream Team for football. Senior Tredy, a 4-year letterman and a wrestling prodigy, has been a shining example of dedication and skill.

Other female nominees, Cecilia Davenport, Maria Ronda, and Peyton Salisbury, have all demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication in their respective sports. Senior Davenport, a 4-year letterwoman in Volleyball and Soccer, has been a force to reckon with in both sports. Junior Ronda, a 3 year letterwoman in Football and Soccer, holds the school record for the most goals scored in soccer. Junior Salisbury, a letterwoman in Volleyball and a state champion in weightlifting, has shown that she is a force to be reckoned with in the world of sports. Salisbury spoke for all nominated Panthers by saying, “Being nominated for the Vonn Bell award just makes me think back to the times I wasn't at my full potential and just that one coach seeing that potential and pushing me to where I am today.”

Congratulations to John Hill, Jamiah Lewis, and all the nominated Panther athletes.