Monacan High School Swimmer Emerson Callis, a two-time All Metro Swimmer of the Year who won four state championships, was named 2026 Youth Athlete of the Year at the RVA Sports Awards.
Emerson exemplifies all the positive aspects of sports and has made a positive impact on the Richmond Region in 2024.
I really want to start by thanking everyone who voted for me for this award. I really appreciate everyone's support, and it really does mean the world to me. I want to send the biggest thank you to my mom, my dad and my brother, Connor, as well as the rest of my family for being my biggest fans and constantly showing me support through every step of my swimming career. My family is really the backbone of my accomplishments in this sport, and I wouldn't have achieved a single one of them without them," Emerson said. "Obviously, I want to thank my coach, John and my teammates on Quest, for always pushing me towards my goals and reminding me that I can achieve so much more. And a huge shout out to the amazing girls team at Monacan for keeping the sport fun and consistently showing up to succeed. I truly wouldn't be here without any of these people, and I'm forever grateful. Thank you to Ms. Misson for nominating, nominating me for this award, and then thank you again to everyone who gave me this amazing opportunity."
Congratulations, Emerson!
