Town honors local athletes for excellence

Hillsville Town Council, in a break from its custom of honoring Cavalier State Championships, presented four recent Carroll County High School graduates with “Excellence in Athletics” recognition plaques during its June 8 regular meeting.

“We are excited to announce the achievements made by these four record-breaking Carroll County High School Student Athletes. These students have set a new standard of excellence and left an indelible mark on their respective sports programs,” said Town Manager LeAnna Surratt.

Lady Cav Alyssa Ervin of the CCHS Basketball Team was honored for breaking the previous Scoring Record set by Erin Gibson of 1,787 points, by scoring a total of 2,111 points during her high school basketball career. Ervin will be joining the Elon University girls’ basketball team, having received a full ride to the university.

Emma Leath, alumni of the Carroll County High School softball team, was honored for breaking two records previously held by Sydney Nester of 55 wins and 694 strikeouts, achieving 61 total wins and 719 strikeouts during her high school softball career. Emma will be joining the Surry Community College softball team in the fall.

Ashlyn Newman, who was not only a member of the Carroll County soccer team, but Class of 2024 Valedictorian, received recognition for breaking the previous record of 74 total goals scored set by Adrienne Harris, scoring a total of 86 goals. Newman will be attending Union University in Tennessee, where she will also play soccer.

Cavalier netter Jabin Talley, who broke the previous record of approximately 30 combined wins by achieving a total combined wins of 74 matches, was also honored. Talley will be attending Southwest Virginia Community College and is the first Carroll County High School student to play tennis at his attending college.

“These achievements are a testament to Alyssa’s, Emma’s, Ashlyn’s and Jabin’s dedication, skill and perseverance. The Town of Hillsville Council and staff would like to congratulate you all and wish you continued success in your future endeavors,” said Surratt.

Greg Talley said the support of parents and the town was appreciated and said just a single record broken in a season is difficult enough but “four in one year was really amazing.”

David Broyles may be reached at 276-779-4013 or on “X” at CarrollNewsDave