Ellie Van Winkle – Girls Soccer – Senior
Van Winkle has been a key contributor to the Bulldogs’ undefeated season, allowing just one goal through 13 matches as Cashmere’s starting goalkeeper.
Behind a strong Bulldog defense, Van Winkle has faced approximately 25 shots on the season, demonstrating outstanding focus, consistency and composure when called upon. Her timely saves have helped Cashmere protect leads, withstand pressure and maintain its defensive dominance.
Van Winkle has delivered in some of the season’s biggest moments. Against Naches Valley, she came up with a crucial save on a point-blank shot, and she followed that performance with two more impressive stops against Cascade, including a big foot save and a diving save to help secure another Bulldog victory.
Head Coach Anya Belcher praised Van Winkle’s concentration, patience and ability to stay prepared throughout each match.
“Goalkeeping requires concentration through every minute, even when the ball is at the other end of the field. Ellie has embraced that responsibility, staying engaged and ready to respond when her team needs her most. Her timely saves have helped preserve the Bulldogs’ defensive efforts and given her teammates confidence in the goalkeeper behind them. “Ellie’s strength is staying ready, even when she goes long stretches without facing a shot. When that one big moment comes, she responds with confidence and comes up huge for her teammates. Her focus, patience and commitment have been such an important part of our success.”
Jacoby Tait – Football – Junior
A first-team all-state linebacker last season, Tait continues to demonstrate the leadership, versatility and toughness that have made him such an important part of the Bulldogs’ program.
Tait turned in an outstanding all-around performance Friday night as Cashmere earned a commanding 63–0 victory over Naches Valley. Offensively, he scored a receiving touchdown and added 20 rushing yards on two carries. On the defensive side, Tait recorded seven tackles, including three tackles for loss, helping the Bulldogs deliver another dominant performance.
Through the season, Tait has contributed in a variety of ways on offense and defense. As a running back, he has totaled 177 rushing yards on 27 carries with two touchdowns, while adding seven receptions for 60 yards and four receiving touchdowns. Defensively, he has recorded 24 tackles, eight tackles for loss and one sack.
Head Coach Bryan Bremer praised Tait’s work ethic, selflessness and leadership, describing him as a driving force within the Bulldog program.
“Jacoby is the heartbeat of our team. He is as selfless as they come and will do whatever it takes to help this team succeed. Jacoby has earned every opportunity he gets on Friday nights through his work ethic and dedication in the weight room throughout the offseason.
“His leadership is just as impressive. Jacoby holds himself to a high standard and does a great job of encouraging those around him to do the same. He puts the team first and leads by example, and that’s what makes him such a valuable part of our program.”
Whether making plays in the backfield, contributing as a receiver or delivering big plays on defense, Tait has consistently shown his value to the Bulldogs. His commitment to preparation, team-first mentality and example as a team captain continue to make an impact both on and off the field.
