SACRAMENTO, CALIF. — Timothy Kerr from San Ramon Valley High School and Lillie Vehling of Notre Dame (Sherman Oaks) High School were selected as the 2023 CIF Scholar-Athletes of the Year. Since 1982, the scholarship award identifies student-athletes who excel in the classroom, athletics, and are strong contributors to their schools and communities. Kerr and Vehling will be recognized at the State Capitol in Sacramento on May 11, and each will receive a $10,000 scholarship.
“Lillie and Timothy exemplify the top student-athletes in California,” said CIF Executive Director Ron Nocetti, “I want to congratulate them along with all the exceptional nominees this year that represent the best in education-based athletics.”
Timothy Kerr, San Ramon Valley High School, Danville (North Coast Section)
Kerr is a two-sport, four-year athlete at San Ramon Valley High School participating in water polo, serving as team captain, and swimming. He has served as President the past two years of a school club which focuses on fostering an inclusive school environment at SRVHS and was formerly the Vice President as a sophomore. Kerr is also involved with the Special Olympics of Northern California serving as a staff member and referee. Additionally, he is a lifeguard and assistant youth water polo coach.
“Responsibility, caring, respect, trustworthiness, fairness, and citizenship are key aspects of my personality that form the foundation of my character,” states Kerr. “The Six Pillars (of Character) inspire me to continue to cultivate opportunities that enact positive change for me and my communities.”
- College: UC Davis
- Primary Sport: Water Polo
Lillie Vehling, Notre Dame High School, Sherman Oaks, (Southern Section)
A two-sport athlete during all four years at Notre Dame High School, Vehling served as team captain as a junior and senior in both water polo and swimming. She is the Founder and President of the Fire Family Ladder Program which is a nonprofit focused on supporting the children of fallen or disabled firefighters and is also a dedicated volunteer for the Widows Orphans and Disabled Firefighters Fund. Vehling is a National Honors Society member and has earned many awards including USAWP Academic All-America Outstanding Honors, the John Abbott Merit Scholarship at NDHS, and is an AP scholar with Distinction.
I’ve always felt that water polo and swim attract unique athletes and provide a fair and supportive opportunity to engage in athletics,” states Vehling. “My physical and emotional resilience was an asset throughout high school. It is my hope that the impact of my high school career is highlighted more by my inspiration out of the pool, than my influence in the pool.”
- College: UC Davis
- Primary Sport: Water Polo