The James O'Melia, Jr. Award is Rock Island High School's highest athletic honor, created in memory of Jim O’Melia, who tragically drowned on May 27, 1981. Each year, a committee selects one male and one female senior athlete who best embody the values Jim exemplified: athleticism, leadership, honesty, sportsmanship, and character. Nominations can come from coaches or community members, and the committee carefully reviews each candidate. The award celebrates scholars who reflect the very best of the school and community.
This year’s honorees:
Madison Carroll
Madison excelled in both volleyball and softball, earning multiple varsity letters in both sports. She was a 4-year varsity member in softball and a 4-year member in volleyball, achieving WB6 First Team Pitcher honors in 2024. Academically, Madison holds an impressive unweighted GPA of 3.96 and a weighted GPA of 4.18, ranking #4 in her class. She's also a National Honor Society member, participated in Gray Matters Collective, and the 24-Hour Play Production. Madison plans to attend Mizzou University to pursue a degree in Nursing.
Merrick Stockwell
Merrick distinguished himself in cross country, wrestling, and track, earning 4-year varsity letters in both cross country and wrestling, and one in track. He served as team captain and participated in team state events. In wrestling, he was also a conference and regional champion. Academically, Merrick earned a 3.71 unweighted GPA and 3.93 weighted GPA, and is a National Honor Society member and Symphonic Band participant. He actively volunteers with the Humane Society, QC Marathon, and Rock Island Youth Wrestling Program. Merrick plans to attend Blackhawk College, then transfer to a business degree.
Both recipients exemplify the athleticism, character, leadership, honesty, and sportsmanship honored by the James O'Melia, Jr. Award. Congratulations!