The first annual winter sports award celebration was held Thursday night at Lacey Township High School honoring the athletes who competed this season.

Earlier this school year, when the ceremony was originally proposed, it was criticized as parents and student-athletes were concerned that it threatened individual team award gatherings.

Administration and the students compromised to have both ceremonies coexist.

The ceremony consisted of special speakers from the district. First, second, third and fourth year letter winners were honored and then Golden Paw, Academic and MVP award winners were recognized. Each coach spoke specifically to their teams and the season.

Below is a list of those student-athletes who were awarded the Golden Paw, Academic and MVP awards.

The Golden Paw Award, sponsored by the Lacey Township Booster Association, is given to an athlete on each team who exemplifies good attendance, attitude, dedication, desire, enthusiasm, loyalty and perseverance.

The Academic Award, sponsored by the Board of Education, is given to a junior or senior athlete who has the highest GPA on the team.

Each coach grants the MVP award to the athlete who is considered the most valuable player.