St. Mary’s County Department of Recreation & Parks honored nearly 30 eighth-grade youth basketball players with the 2026 Will Smith Leadership Awards during a ceremony February 22, 2026, at Great Mills High School in Lexington Park. The awards celebrate athletes who have participated in the R&P Youth Basketball League from sixth through eighth grade and exemplify sportsmanship, passion for the game, and leadership on and off the court.
Established in 2009, the awards commemorate William L. Smith, Jr., a former R&P basketball participant who died September 21, 2008, while attending Becker College in Massachusetts. Smith played six years in the league, attended Great Mills High School, and left a lasting impact through his love of basketball and positive influence on teammates, coaches, and the community.
The department expressed appreciation to Smith’s family for supporting this annual tradition that highlights young athletes in St. Mary’s County who uphold high standards of respect and teamwork.
This year’s recipients, detailed in the official list from the county government, include a diverse group of players recognized for specific qualities such as work ethic, positivity, coachability, dedication, and ability to uplift teammates. Notable honorees and their cited attributes:
Liam Barrera earned praise as a natural leader who never missed a game or practice, always displayed positivity, and showed clear passion through his on-court demeanor.
Colton Boley stood out for strong work ethic, positive attitude toward coaches and teammates, ability to encourage others, and significant growth that mirrors Will Smith’s exceptional qualities.
Jaelik Brooks was noted as driven and motivated, setting goals, leading by example with persistence and positive attitude.
Mai’Kenzie Coleman received recognition for dedication, helping others, contributing to an undefeated championship team last year, and showing commitment, discipline, and growth.
Leighton Cook was highlighted for incredible growth, taking on a captain role as an eighth grader, outstanding positivity, and consistent teammate support.
Nevaeh Neal was commended as a hardworking, respectful leader who encourages teammates, communicates effectively, and maintains focus in challenges.
Henry Rueter was described as dependable and selfless, giving maximum effort every season and using his strengths to help the team succeed.
Kingston Williams was honored for integrity, humility, fairness, responsibility, and kindness that makes others feel valued and motivated.
Many others, including Jace Beall, Liam Beall, Andrew Broome, Benjamin Broome, and more, were recognized for displaying sportsmanship, leadership, dedication, passion, respect, commitment, drive, perseverance, teamwork, and quiet leadership through consistent effort.
The full list of recipients is available in the county’s official document. The program continues to foster positive youth development in Southern Maryland’s basketball community by spotlighting these emerging leaders.
This recognition event reinforces the value placed on character-building in local youth sports programs, drawing from the legacy of a player whose influence endures more than 15 years later.
