Ryan Zirkle Memorial Marin Scholar Athlete Award Winners 2023

We are delighted to announce the three worthy recipients of the annual Ryan Zirkle Memorial Marin Scholar Athlete Award 2023.

The Ryan Zirkle Memorial Marin Scholar Athlete Award aims to inspire and encourage current and future Marin County high school scholar-athletes who emulate Ryan’s academic, athletic, and professional achievements.

MCAL Athletic Directors were asked by Ryan’s family to nominate worthy candidates who then submitted their written applications to a selection committee composed of Ryan’s closest family and friends. 

The winners were awarded $2500 each.

• Mary Healy of San Rafael High School, pictured first below, plans to attend North Carolina State University is, like Ryan was, a standout multi-sport Varsity athlete (volleyball, basketball, lacrosse) and scholar with a strong sense of community and school spirit. Daughter of a currently serving Marin County Deputy Sheriff, Mary will study Life Sciences/Biology in college and plans to continue her volleyball career there.
• Trevor Islam, of Tamalpais High School, who plans to attend Stanford University in the fall, was top scorer in the league, standout club athlete and youth mentor while maintaining a stellar GPA and leadership in his chosen sport of soccer. A math and technology superstar, Trevor will study Symbolic Systems at Stanford.
• Selina Ruano of San Marin High School, pictured third below, plans to attend UC Irvine in the fall, showed outstanding leadership and sportsmanship in basketball and cross country while maintaining a robust academic and social life. Selina plans to study Environmental Science and Policy.

According to Ryan’s godfather and uncle, Charlie Christensen, “Words cannot express how honored we were to get to know all of the fine nominees. Each scholar-athlete was incredibly impressive in their own right, and on so many fronts, including academics, athleticism, leadership, and sense of community.  We were challenged to select only two winners, but in the end, feel that Nick and Lyla best embody the spirit of this award. We are excited to support them on their bright and promising paths!”

          

Mary Healy                                         Trevor Islam                                    Selina Ruano