Rotary Club of Danville Names Outstanding Female Athlete of the Year

Announcement, photo submitted by Rotary Club of Danville:

Rotary Club of Danville has named San Ramon Valley High School senior water polo player and swimmer Katherine (Kat) Klass outstanding female athlete of the year 2014-2015.

Klass was selected for the honor from a field of three other candidates representing San Ramon Valley high schools. Runner-up nominees were: Kaya Philapil, California High School; Carolyn Lee, Dougherty Valley High School; and Lindsay Rood, Monte Vista High School.

Each candidate was nominated by their school coaches and athletic directors for both scholastic and athletic accomplishments during their high school careers. “We annually honor outstanding female athletes that personify excellence in athletics and scholastics and are role models for other female athletes,” said Danville Rotary President Steve Simpkins.

The athletes were recognized at a recent Rotary Club of Danville luncheon attended by their parents and keynote speaker former Olympian Marilyn King who was joined by JFK University President and sports psychologist Dr. Mac Powell. Klass’ name will be inscribed on perpetual trophy that will be housed at her high school for the next year. Each school’s athletic department received a donation from Rotary Club of Danville.

Klass, who is described by her coach as the “best water polo player in San Ramon Valley High School history,” was also characterized as a ”humble, outstanding, leader “and “tremendous role model.” She will be attending Stanford University.

According to her coaches and teachers, Philapil is “a true leader for her swimming and diving team, and an excellent role model as a student athlete.” A four-year varsity swimmer, she has received numerous swimming honors including a full scholarship to Arizona State University.

Lee, is described by her coach as “passionate about school, softball, family and friends.” She has been honored as a shortstop and pitcher and “is involved in a number of activities both on and off campus and is a true leader.” She is interested in pursuing a career in engineering.

Softball and soccer player Rood gives maximum effort in competition every time according to her coach. She has “softball instincts” and is committed to continuous improvement in soccer and softball. She has been a four-year varsity starter and captain in softball and was named First Team EBAL this year in soccer.

“We congratulate and honor all four female, athletes,” said Simpkins. “The Rotary Club of Danville is honored to sponsor the Outstanding Female Athlete of Year as well as a similar award program for area male athletes. These young people represent the next generation of leaders who exemplify Rotary values of leadership, dedication and service.”

Caption: Outstanding Female Athlete of the Year (from left) Kat Klass is joined by runners up Kaya Philapil, California High School; Carolyn Lee, Dougherty Valley; Lindsay Rood, Monte Vista; and former Olympian and award ceremony speaker Marilyn King.