Northwood Student-Athlete Named R.A.I.S.E. Champion
Addison Finlay, a student-athlete at Northwood High School, has won the 2026 R.A.I.S.E. Champion of the Year Award in recognition of her outstanding achievements in athletics, academics, and leadership.
A premier hurdler in Maryland, Addison is the 2026 MPSSAA 3A State Champion in the indoor 55-meter hurdles and a New Balance Nationals qualifier. She is widely respected for her sportsmanship, resilience and commitment to her team, contributing across multiple relay events while fostering a positive and inclusive team culture.
In the classroom, Addison is an Honor Roll student in the rigorous Montgomery College Middle College program (MC²) at Northwood High School, where she is earning her high school diploma and college credits toward an associate degree in General Studies. She is a member of the National Honor Society, a leader in her school’s STEM Club, and a participant in the 2026 Naval Academy Summer Seminar, reflecting her strong academic performance and commitment to service.
Addison’s leadership extends beyond athletics and academics through her involvement in the Student-Athlete Leadership Council (SALC), where she advocates for student voice and inclusive practices. As a delegate representing MCPS and Maryland at the National Federation of State High School Associations’ (NFHS’) National Student Leadership Summit, she brings back ideas that strengthen her school community and expand opportunities for others.
Demonstrating a commitment to global citizenship, Addison was selected as one of 30 inaugural Pickleball Diplomacy Ambassadors to China, using sport to foster cross-cultural understanding and build meaningful international connections.
Known for her humility and dedication to uplifting others, Addison is a student-athlete who leads with purpose. She is a young leader who understands that success is measured not only in medals, grades or titles — but also in impact. She represents the highest ideals of education-based athletics — where character, learning and competition work together to develop the whole student.
