Every year, the Herndon-Reston Youth Lacrosse (HRYL) community comes together to honor exceptional individuals with the Lou Petersen Memorial Award. This prestigious accolade is more than just a trophy; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the enduring legacy of Louis M. Petersen, our cherished former Commissioner, whose life and leadership continue to inspire us all.
Remembering Lou Petersen: A Legacy of Leadership
Lou Petersen was instrumental in founding HRYL in 1996 and led our league with passion and dedication until his untimely passing in 2013. His commitment to youth lacrosse was profound, particularly evident in his work with both HRYL and Herndon High School’s varsity girls’ lacrosse team. Lou was not just a commissioner; he was a mentor, a motivator, and, above all, a friend to everyone in the lacrosse community.
The Spirit of the Award
The Lou Petersen Memorial Award is given annually to someone who embodies the virtues Lou valued most: perseverance, hard work, team spirit, and wholehearted dedication to the sport and our community. This award isn’t just about recognizing talent; it’s about acknowledging those who, like Lou, uplift others and foster respect both on and off the field.
A Bridge Between Communities
Lou’s influence was remarkable in bringing together young athletes from Herndon and Reston, regardless of their backgrounds. His philosophy was simple yet powerful—respect for one another is paramount, and sportsmanship is just as crucial as scoring goals. Through his leadership, children learned to play lacrosse and to be part of a community that values integrity and respect above all.
Celebrating This Year’s Heroes
Every award ceremony allows us to reflect on the qualities that make our lacrosse community great. We honor South Lakes and Herndon High School players, celebrating those who have shown exceptional spirit and leadership. Here are this year’s inspiring young athletes.
As a four-year varsity lacrosse player at Herndon-Reston Youth Lacrosse (HRYL), Xavier Legler has exemplified the qualities of a true leader and a defensive powerhouse. Serving as team captain during his junior and senior years, Xavier has not only led his team strategically but also inspired them through his commitment and performance. He is recognized for his exceptional defensive skills, accumulating an impressive 117-caused turnovers and 138 ground balls over his high school career.
South Lakes Winners
Xavier Legler: A Leader On and Off the Field
Xavier’s passion for lacrosse transcends the playing field; he actively contributes to the community by volunteering as a coach for elementary school basketball and youth lacrosse programs. His dedication is a testament to his love for the sport and his desire to nurture the next generation of players. Xavier embodies the spirit of HRYL through his leadership, sportsmanship, and ongoing commitment to promoting lacrosse among youth in the community.
Brenna Settar
Brenna Settar began playing lacrosse in Kindergarten for Herndon Reston Youth Lacrosse (HRYL) and has been on the Varsity women’s lacrosse team at South Lakes High School (SLHS) for the past four seasons. She has served as captain of the lacrosse team for the past two seasons, earned First Team All-Region recognition and set the SLHS Draw Control record her Junior year. Brenna loved her time with HRYL and beyond playing has volunteered as an assistant coach and helped to support instructional clinics. Outside of lacrosse, Brenna played Varsity Basketball, was a varsity captain for Field Hockey and a state qualifier for track and field while attending SLHS. Brenna plans to continue playing lacrosse while attending the University of Tennessee next year where she will be pursuing a degree in Nursing.
Herndon Winners
Thatcher Swinton
Thatcher truly “respects the game” and embodies the passion, leadership, and grit, which have become hallmarks of this award. Thatcher exemplifies sportsmanship on the field, citizenship off the field and leadership in all endeavors. It is these characteristics that have helped him to earn the respect of his teammates and coaches alike. Thatcher began his lacrosse career with HRYL at the age of five and will finish out his fourth season as a varsity starter, along with being named captain the last two seasons. In addition to lacrosse, he is a captain and 3-year starter on the varsity football team. Off the field, he has taken on an instrumental “leader” role at home, as the oldest of six siblings, as well as in his church community, where he is equally well respected. He has accomplished all of this, while also maintaining a 4.3 GPA in the classroom. In the fall he will be attending BYU where he will continue his lacrosse career. Congratulations Thatcher Swinton!
Bree Lizama
Bree is determined and focused on the lacrosse field. She combines her high lacrosse IQ with speed, agility, and endurance to be a menace to opponents. She has a strong field presence and takes command of the offense. She has an uncanny ability to juke, dodge and shoot. She has been a committed member of her club team and engages with our future Hornets by helping with girls in HRYL. Her most vital attribute is her respect for her teammates, opponents, referees, and coaches. She is a true pleasure to coach and is highly regarded by her teammates.
These athletes have demonstrated exceptional dedication and are a testament to the values Lou Petersen championed.
Join Us in Celebration
Lou Petersen’s memory lives on through this award, reminding us of one individual’s impact on a community. Let’s continue to support and inspire each other in the spirit of Lou’s memory, striving to make a positive impact both on and off the field.
