For one night per year, the Oxford community gathers to watch its high school coaching staff hand out their respective program’s special awards to Wildcat student-athletes.

For their hard work, dedication and sportsmanship, 122 senior athletes of Oxford High School’s Class of 2018 were honored by the Oxford Wildcat Booster Club Sunday, May 6.

In order to be recognized at the Booster Club’s annual Senior Athletes Dinner, athletes must receive a varsity letter in at least one sport during his or her senior year of high school.

Of the 122 senior athletes recognized, two were voted for by their peers to receive special awards.

Sergio Borg won the George Prince Award, which is given to the Best Male Athlete.

During his high school career, Borg played varsity football and was a varsity wrestler.

Borg said he felt honored to receive the same award which had been previously accepted by his brother, Rocco Borg, in 2013.

“It felt pretty rewarding. It felt good to get this award… It was cool to be in the same place as my brother,” Borg said.

Throughout his time in high school, Borg said he learned many lessons both on and off the field. He offered some of his wisdom to younger athletes.

“A lot of people say that you shouldn’t do more than one sport in high school. I think (playing) multiple sports make you more athletic in all aspects, keeps you on a consistent schedule and keeps you on your toes at all times,” Borg said.

Borg will attend the University of Michigan in the fall, where he will study mechanical engineering and continue his wrestling career.

Kaitlyn Bean received the Helen Smith Award for Best Female Athlete.

“I was really honored, especially knowing the meaning behind the award. I was also really surprised. I wasn’t expecting it,” said Bean.

During her career at OHS, Bean played varsity softball and basketball.

She’s played on the varsity team for softball since her freshman year and she joined the varsity basketball team in her sophomore year.

Bean was excited to offer some advice to younger Wildcats as she prepares to graduate.

“In high school sports, sometimes your character means more than your performance. You’ll learn a lot of different lessons through sports and it’s always best to be humble and really appreciate the people that help you along the way,” Bean said.

She will attend Central Michigan in the fall, where she will continue to play softball.

Bean also wanted to give a special thank you to those who have helped her throughout high school, including Girls Softball Head Coach Kenny Allen, Girls Varsity Softball Coach Jessica Rowe, Girls Basketball Head Coach Rachel Bryer and parents K.C. and Angie.

Other awards granted that night included the Oxford Wildcat Boosters Scholarship, which was received by Sarah Liford and Borg, and the Scholar Athlete Award, which was received by Micah Dymond and Brennan Burrows.