Severn News

Varsity Tennis Captain Adele Hlousek ‘24 Earns IAAM Character Coin

9/26/2023

Severn Varsity Tennis Captain, Adele Hlousek ‘24, was recently presented with the IAAM Character Coin by John Caroll's Coach, Kaitlin Loftus, after a hard-fought match that ultimately ended up in a win for John Carroll.

The September 12 match was a hard 3-set competition against John Carroll's Emma Bison that lasted 2.5 hours. It's the kind of match where emotions can run high but both Hlousek & Bison showed determination, grittiness, & overall great sportsmanship which is what led Loftus to present Hlousek with the IAAM Character Coin. Even more, after Loftus explained why she was giving the coin to Hlousek, the Admiral asked for Bison to join in her a photo further demonstrating her commitment to good sportsmanship.

The IAAM Character Coin is an honor to receive because the IAAM has "embraced the highest ideals of fair play, integrity, and respect" since it began in 1999 and the Character Coin is the epitome of these ideals. Each IAAM varsity head coach is given two Character Coins at the beginning of each season as an opportunity to present it to two opponents throughout the season who display notable acts of sportsmanship and respect for their opponents & the game.

"Tennis is a highly competitive sport and singles matches can become intense and tiring very quickly," said Hlousek. "However, it's important to keep in mind that in reality, the match is two students who share a love for tennis and are trying to improve their skills. You should have a good time and treat your opponent with respect and play with integrity. They are a vital part of the game that makes it fun, not just an adversary."

Congratulations to Adele – Severn applauds you for your spectacular displays of the IAAM's ideals of fair play, integrity, and respect.

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