Gray Stone Day graduate Sarah VanHorn was selected for the Jerry McGee Scholarship Award at the NC Athletic Directors Association Summer Conference.

Recipients are chosen among those overcoming adversity and returning to contribute to their school and athletic program, in addition to demonstrating good sportsmanship on and off the field, and high academic achievement.

Two seniors usually receive this award in the state each year. Because there were many applicants this year, the scholarship committee chose four students.

“I am very proud of Sarah for receiving this recognition for her perseverance working through her injuries and still supporting her teammates,” said Scott Wolfe, the Gray Stone athletic director who nominated VanHorn for this award.

VanHorn tore her ACL in the second week of soccer practice her junior year. She had surgery to repair the injury and attended every practice and game that spring to support the team while beginning her long rehab process.

VanHorn worked with athletic trainer Hollis Theard and much on her own to rehab to be able to play as a senior.

While recovering from injury (and unable to play), VanHorn supported the girls tennis and basketball teams as a manager and senior leader.

After getting clearance to play soccer in the spring, she suffered a less serious ankle injury.

Still showing up every day, eventually VanHorn got the opportunity to get back on the soccer field. Throughout the process VanHorn maintained her connection and commitment to all of her teams, as well as her academic groups.

Sarah VanHorn, center, is joined by Gray Stone athletic trainer Hollis Theard, left, and athletic director Scott Wolfe. (Contributed)

VanHorn was a three-sport varsity athlete for the Knights, playing tennis, basketball and soccer. She was a participant in Mock Trial, Quiz Bowl, and National Honor Society, among other activities.

This fall VanHorn will attend the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. Her parents are Tom and Renee VanHorn of Oakboro.