Lakeside School

Lakeside Athletics is proud to announce that Lili B. ’26 of the girls basketball team, and Daniel L. ‘26 of the boys swim and dive team have been named BIG CAT Award recipients for the month of January!

The BIG CAT Award, which recognizes exceptional athletic performance, dedication, and sportsmanship, is a monthly honor presented to two standout Lakeside athletes – one from a boys’ sport and one from a girls’ sport – who exemplify excellence in athletic performance, leadership, and sportsmanship. The selection of the BIG CAT Award recipients is a collaborative process involving coaches and athletic staff. Each month, coaches nominate athletes from their teams who have demonstrated exceptional contributions to their sport, team culture, and overall positive influence on their teammates.

On the basketball court, Lili B. has been a major contributor to both the team’s wins and the off-the-court culture. In January alone, she’s averaging 9.4 points per game, while also leading the team with 31 assists. In a January 21^st game against Seattle Prep, she dropped a season-high and team-leading 22 points, and added 9 assists, helping the Lions cruise to a 73-44 road win. On January 17, another road win against Lincoln, she contributed 10 assists and 9 points. She’s also shooting 41.7% from the three-point line, and 83.3% from the free throw stripe.

“Lili has assumed a major leadership role all in the midst of a new coaching staff and many new players playing new positions,” says interim head coach Sandy Schneider. “All the while, she’s the first player in the gym and the last to leave. She leads by example and is well respected by her teammates and opponents, and will be instrumental in whatever success our team achieves this season.”

In the pool, the boys swim and dive team are off to their usual hot start: 4-1 on the season and undefeated through two meets in January. Helping to lead the way is senior Daniel L.! In the month of January, Daniel swam a state-qualifying time in the 200 Free, and currently has the fifth fastest time in the state. He has also been a part of the state qualifying times for all three of the relay teams, two of which have the fastest times in the entire state. This is Daniel’s second time winning the BIG CAT Award; his first nod came in December of 2024.

“Daniel is a fierce competitor and a lead-by-example captain for the boys swim and dive team,” boys swim program head Matt Miller. “He's been working hard to continue developing and highlighting a culture that revolves around inclusivity, accountability, and fun. He's battled through ups and downs that come with competition at this high of a level and remains consistently positive and team-oriented. He is a great role model for the other swimmers and divers, and we sure are lucky to have him as a Lion!”

Congratulations to Lili and Daniel on being named our January 2026 BIG CATS!

FIGHT LIONS FIGHT!

Follow Lakeside Athletics on Instagram at @LakesideLionsAthletics.