Page 19 - 2025 Impact Awards

Lee Lonzo Champions Together Lee Lonzo Champions Together

Scholarship Scholarship

Lee Lonzo served as a Teacher, Coach, Athletic Director, and Assistant Isaac Scott embodies the importance of inclusivity in athletics by dem-
Principal during his career. While serving on the IHSAA’s Board of onstrating that sports can be adapted to accommodate all individuals,
Directors, Lee was a key figure in the formation of the Student Advisory regardless of their physical, cognitive, or sensory challenges. Through
Committee. As a constant supporter of positive and meaningful change, Lee his involvement in Unified Track, Unified Football, Unified Bowling,
became the initial Director of Champions Together, a collaboration between and Champions Together Basketball, Isaac demonstrates how inclusive
the IHSAA and Special Olympics Indiana. Under his leadership this unique programs provide meaningful opportunities for competition, teamwork,
partnership quickly established itself as one of the nation’s best Unified and personal growth. His dedication to his teammates is unwavering.
Champion Schools programs. During his tenure, more than 125 Indiana Even when sidelined from Unified Flag Football due to surgery, Isaac
High Schools earned the Champions Together Banner and more than 600 remained an energetic presence on the sidelines, cheering on his team
schools at all academic levels are now engaged in the inclusion revolution.
and reminding everyone that being a great teammate isn’t just about
being on the field, it’s about encouragement, heart, and a deep commit-
Always a proponent of servant leadership, Lonzo continuously promoted ment to collective success.
the importance of inclusion within Indiana schools. Lee played a significant
role in Unified Track & Field and Unified Flag Football becoming sanctioned
IHSAA sports, while also assisting Special Olympics Indiana in the Ava Shafer exemplifies inclusiveness through her unwavering dedica-
formulation of state tournaments in Unified Bocce and Unified Bowling. tion to creating a supportive and welcoming environment for all stu-
dents. As an active member of the Best Buddies chapter at Mooresville
In partnership with the Lonzo Family and Friends, the IHSAA and IHSAA High School and a devoted Peer Tutoring student, Ava has consistently
Foundation are proud to present the Lee Lonzo Champions Together shown a passion for fostering meaningful connections. Her selection
Post-Secondary Scholarship each year to a pair of Unified Sport student- to assist students with the highest needs in a middle school classroom
athletes from an IHSAA member school. Recipients of this scholarship are speaks volumes about her patience, empathy, and leadership. Beyond
judged by their commitment to comradery, inclusiveness, team spirit, and the classroom, Ava ensures that students with disabilities are included
character while participating in Champions Together related activities. in the social life of the school, often spending her personal time with
friends from Best Buddies and Unified Sports. Through her kindness,
advocacy, and authentic engagement, Ava has helped build a school
culture where every student feels seen, heard, and valued.

When Isaac was sidelined due to surgery, Ava ensured he still felt like a
vital member of the team, standing beside him on the sidelines, cheer-
ing with him, and celebrating each play as if he were on the field him-
self. Their bond is built on Ava’s unwavering support and Isaac’s trust
in her as a teammate and friend. Whether on the track, the football
field, or in Champions Together Basketball, Ava ensures that Isaac has
the guidance he needs while also encouraging his independence. Isaac,
in turn, expresses his appreciation through his joyful interactions, high
fives, and shared moments of triumph with Ava and his teammates.

Their friendship is a testament to the impact of Unified Sports in creat-
ing an inclusive environment where all students, regardless of ability,
can form lasting relationships and experience the joy of
competition together.
Isaac Scott and Ava Shafer
Mooresville

18 IHSAA Foundation Impact Awards IHSAA Foundation Impact Awards 19