Spring sports are heating up in Vermont, and it's time to crown the next Delta Dental Vermont Varsity Insider Boys Athlete of the Week! This week's ballot is packed with standout performances from across the state, and we need your vote to decide who takes the title.
Voting is now open and runs through 9 p.m. on Thursday, May 14. To cast your ballot, head to burlingtonfreepress.com—no email or social media votes will be counted. The winner will be announced on Friday, May 15, so every vote counts in this tight race.
Here's a look at this week's nominees, each of whom delivered jaw-dropping performances on the field, court, or track:
Oscar Crainich, Burlington Tennis: Crainich was unstoppable at No. 1 singles, cruising to three straight-set victories against Colchester, Mount Mansfield, and Champlain Valley. He dropped just one game all week—a masterclass in precision and control.
Grady Gervais, Enosburg Baseball: Gervais pitched perfection, firing a five-inning perfect game with five strikeouts in a 10-0 rout of Vergennes. It's the kind of performance that has scouts and fans alike buzzing.
Milo Lavit, Harwood Lacrosse: Lavit lit up the scoreboard with three goals in a 10-4 road win over Division I Mount Mansfield, then followed it up with another hat trick and two assists in a 14-0 shutout of Colchester. The defending D-II champions are rolling, and Lavit is leading the charge.
Garnet Matson, Peoples Baseball: Matson was a two-way star in a 3-1 win over Randolph, tossing a complete-game two-hitter with 10 strikeouts while also going 2-for-3 at the plate. A true ace in every sense of the word.
Sebastian Perdrizet, Thetford Track and Field: The junior set personal bests in the 200-meter (22.85 seconds), 400-meter (49.76), and long jump (23 feet, 7.7 inches) at a meet in Hanover, New Hampshire. He also won the 100-meter in 11.18—a four-win day that screams star power.
Duncan Schrader, Montpelier Lacrosse: Schrader found the net four times in a key matchup, showcasing the kind of offensive firepower that makes Montpelier a team to watch this season.
Think we missed a standout athlete? We're always looking for the next big name. Send your nominations to sports@burlingtonfreepress.com with "Athletes of the Week nomination" in the subject line. Be sure to include the athlete's school, sport, and details from their week's performances.
Get out there and vote—your support could be the difference between a great week and a legendary one. And while you're at it, gear up for the season with the latest in high-performance apparel. After all, champions are made on and off the field.