During the starting ceremonies of the 2025 annual Thanksgiving game, three seniors were awarded the Milford Elks Sportsmanship Award. They were all recognized for their leadership, hard work, and respect for others.
This group of students consists of seniors Landon Chan, a football player; Laney Chan, a cheerleader and captain; and Madeline Babcock, a member of the marching band.
When Landon Chan won the award for football, he said he felt proud of himself and his sister Laney, and he was happy his parents were there to see them get the award.
Landon Chan stated that the award shows that where you start does not matter because hard work pays off. Remember to empathize with and support your team, he added.
One of his teammates, sophomore Joshua Rosado, states, “He was good at keeping teammates motivated and keeping energy up when times were low and was a good role model towards upcoming players.”
Another teammate, sophomore Kainen Nastu, shared, “He is a very good leader in any sport. He knows how to help people out with anything.”
Chan’s commitment to cheerleading and leadership stood out throughout the season, earning her an award for cheerleading. She attended cheer camp every year, even before she became a captain, and always showed leadership by including everyone on the team. After returning from camp, she stepped up and became a captain.
Chan’s coach nominated her for the award, and she stated she was surprised but grateful to be selected. Her teammates, family, and friends were very supportive, and many juniors encouraged her to take on a more assertive role and lead with confidence during the cheer season.
She emphasizes that her family taught her to treat others the way she wanted to be treated. As a captain, she believes it is important to be a role model for underclassmen and give them advice and support.
Babcock’s hard work and positive attitude in the band program earned her the award for band. She shows leadership by leading the trombone section. During band camp, she teaches her section marching fundamentals and helps students learn their music. She also works to be a role model by coming prepared and being welcoming to everyone.
Babcock says she was “very grateful” to be selected for the award, and thanks Mrs. Jessica Turner, music teacher and band director, who nominated her, along with her band classmates, friends, and family, for their constant support.
Babcock shared that this award represents all the dedication and effort she has put into the band during her four years at Foran.
Being a member of the band played a big role in Babcock’s growth as a leader. When she first joined, the band’s motto was “fearless,” and although she was shy at first, she found confidence and support through music and the music department. Turner encouraged her to step out of her comfort zone and take on leadership roles. Babcock now uses these skills in other activities, including serving as editor-in-chief of The Mane Street Mirror and as captain of the fencing team.
Freshman Lily Collins, trombone player in Maddie’s section, stated, “Maddie is a great section leader, and she is a great friend who made me feel welcomed when I came to the band.”
Overall, the Milford Elks Joseph A. Foran Sportsmanship Award recognizes the students who demonstrate leadership through respect, dedication, and teamwork.
