Athletes of Week Aug. 23

Evan Burris

This rising senior is returning as a central attacking midfielder for the varsity Cape Henlopen soccer squad. In the scrimmage with Annapolis Christian last week, Evan scored a goal and tallied an assist in the 4-0 unofficial game score. "Evan returned this preseason as if he was in midseason form," said Cape head coach Patrick Kilby. "I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Evan since he was 9 or 10 years old. He played for me at Henlopen Soccer Club, and he was a special player then and is now. We will be relying on Evan quite a bit this season." Evan was first-team All-Henlopen North in 2023. He recently garnered 2024 Rookie of the Year honors for the Dewey Beach Patrol.

Ava Calciano

A returning senior on the Vikings’ volleyball team, this outside hitter is a three-year starter for Cape coach Tyler Coupe. "Her all-around game will be vital to our team's success," he said. "She’s a tenacious athlete who wants every ball, whether on offense or defense." During the 2023 season, she pounded 92 kills, served 32 aces and bumped 121 digs in just 15 games. "She’s a spark plug of energy and has recently been named one of our team captains," Coupe said. "I look forward to challenging her with more skill development as she continues to grow throughout the season.” An Academic All-Conference pick during the 2023 volleyball season, Ava was a first-team All-State and first-team All-Henlopen North Conference shortstop for the Vikings softball squad. She has committed to play softball for UConn after graduation.

Gawain Curtis

A 250-pound, two-way mobile lineman for the Cape football team, this senior goes by the nickname GT.  He sees his major strength as a strong-side guard who can drive block and get on up outta there in pulling situations. Head coach Mike Frederick said of GT, “He  started for us at right tackle the majority of last season. After a late-season injury to tri-captain Saul Garcia, Gawain moved inside to offensive guard. “Guard has since served him well,” Frederick said. “He works tremendously hard, and plays with power and technique. After some early preseason injuries this year, he met the moment when we needed him most.” Gawain is currently running first team on both sides of the ball. “For us to be successful, he will need to have a breakout season in all aspects of the game,” Frederick said.

Ellen Ramsey

A ninth-grade Cape field hockey and lacrosse player straight outta Beacon Middle, Ellen played for Lynn Richardson in both sports, and both teams went undefeated, with a combined record of 38-0. “Field hockey is my No. 1 sport,” Ramsey said. “I played midfield and sometimes along the backline. Defense is my strength. Right now in preseason, I’m playing back line to the goalie’s right. I like to play to my right-hand side, which is my strength.” Ellen not only made Cape varsity as a freshman but looks to be a starter. Debbie Windett said of Ellen Ramsey, “She reminds me of Hannah Maney (now at Iowa) when she was a freshman. I don’t know if she realizes how good she is.” Coach Kate Austin said, “Ellen shows strength coming out of the backfield and on her decision-making.”