Perfect pace lifts Owens to state title

BERRYVILLE -- Say what you want about Adam Owens. Just don't question his dedication. Simon Biddle-Snead sure doesn't.

Ayers runs down a state title

STRASBURG -- The black sliver of ribbon waved only a few dozen yards away. Stride by gliding stride, Strasburg runner Katlyn Ayers strode toward the finish line marking the end of the Group A state cross country meet at Great Meadow; and inch by inch, a nervous anticipation crawled up her stomach.

Warriors' Henshaw enjoys fabulous final season

STEPHENS CITY -- This season? This season was fabulous. It was magical and miraculous, though at times it nearly fell into a shambles. This season was frustrating, yet scintillating. It was filled with Himalayan-highs and cavernous lows. It was the first sip of coffee in the morning, and the first touch of a pillow at night. "It was a big surprise," said Sherando setter Taylor Henshaw, The Northern Virginia Daily's Volleyball Player of the Year.

Rettberg finishes strong for Hawks

FRONT ROYAL -- Five years ago, Ryan Rettberg was at a friend's house. Looking for something to pass the time, the friend's dad took them to a nearby golf course. It was the first time Rettberg had ever put his hands on a club. But what started as a fun thing to do quickly became Rettberg's passion. And in just five years, the Skyline senior has elevated his game to among the best and has earned the title as The Northern Virginia Daily's Golfer of the Year.

Shiley thrived in single-wing

Sam Shiley, The Northern Virginia Daily's Football Offensive Player of the Year, flourished in coach Chris Parker's single-wing offense, rushing for more than 2,000 yards of total offense and 36 touchdowns as Clarke County easily won the district championship with a 47-7 win over Madison County.

Dowrey carried load for Judges

As a youngster, Derek Dowrey Jr. would go to the Handley weight room with his father, a Handley coach, and watch the Judges lift weights. He would even lift some himself and he loved it. Nothing has changed over the years. Dowrey still loves the weight room; in fact, he loves it more than ever.

Trust a key component of Rayburn's coaching success

Tony Rayburn, The Northern Virginia Daily's Football Coach of the Year, grew up around football, as his father was a coach at Jefferson County (W.Va.), Groveton (now West Potomac) and Lake Braddock high schools. The coaching staff at Handley is much like a family. They spend a lot of hours together, they have family outings together and they all understand the concept of teamwork.

2009 All-Area Volleyball Team

FIRST TEAM Taylor Henshaw, Sherando -- The senior captain and The Northern Virginia Daily's player of the year led the...

2009 All-Area Golf Team

FIRST TEAM Ryan Rettberg, Skyline -- Rettberg capped off an impressive senior season by taking first in the district championships,...

All-Area Boys Cross Country Team

FIRST TEAM Adam Owens, Clarke County -- Owens was the top runner on a dominant Clarke County team that captured...

All-Area Football Team: Defense

FIRST TEAM DL -- Derek Dowrey, Handley --Dowrey led the area with eight sacks. The sophomore also led the Judges...

All-Area Girls Cross County Team

FIRST TEAM Katlyn Ayers, Strasburg -- The sophomore did what most fail to do in four years: finish the season...

All-Area Football Team: Offense

FIRST TEAM QB -- Matt Sherfey, Central -- The junior led the area in passing, throwing for more than 1,800...