Dragons pass out the awards

Malek, Nasta headline honors list for John Cooper School

More than 300 people recently gathered for The John Cooper School’s AllSports Banquet, where the athletic department honored its 2014-15 athletes in the Student Center and Performing Arts Center.

“I know I speak for all the coaches in saying you are all exceptional student-athletes, and we would like to thank you for representing The John Cooper School with class and pride,” Cooper Athletic Director Mike Cooper told the crowd as he thanked athletes, parents and coaches for their support throughout the year and recognized the year’s individual and team accomplishments.

Seniors Julianne Malek and Pedro Nasta were named Outstanding Athletes of the Year, and seniors Muna Uzodike and Christian Jones each were presented with the school’s Athletic Leadership Award.

The evening also featured a special presentation to Joseph Broccoli, founding head of the upper school, who is retiring this year.

Malek earned Female Athlete of the Year honors for her efforts in volleyball and track and field. She finished her four-year varsity career on the court as the team’s MVP, with a firstplace ranking in hitting percentage.

She also earned All-SPC and All-South Zone honors this season.

Nasta, the Male Athlete of the Year, made conference history by capturing his fourth consecutive Southwest Preparatory