Salmon River senior Oakley Hasty has been named the recipient of the Jon Hazen Award, presented by the Northern New York Track & Field Officials Association (NNYTOA), recognizing outstanding character, leadership, and sportsmanship in indoor track and field.

Unlike spring awards, the Jon Hazen Award does not consider academic averages or performance standards. Instead, it honors student-athletes who exemplify integrity, commitment, and service to others, qualities Oakley consistently demonstrates both on and off the track.

Oakley is not only a dedicated competitor but also a mentor to younger athletes. He actively supports teammates by teaching proper technique and modeling the values that define an excellent athlete. His work ethic sets a strong example, whether arriving early to practice, staying late to help others improve, or traveling to Canton to assist at a meet even when Salmon River was not participating.

His passion for track and field is evident in his determination to continue competing at the collegiate level. Showing exceptional initiative, Oakley purchased his own hammer to further develop his skills and better prepare for future competition.

Beyond athletics, Oakley is deeply involved in his school and community. He volunteers at numerous local events, has run the clock for youth football games, and worked the concession stand during a North Franklin hockey tournament. He is a member of the National Honor Society and Sources of Strength, a suicide prevention and mental health organization where he promotes positivity and resilience among his peers.

Oakley’s leadership extends beyond the district as well. He was recently inducted into the My Brother’s Keeper Fellowship Program in Albany, N.Y. Notably, he and his peers are the first group of fellows from Salmon River to receive this honor, a testament to his character, ambition, and desire to make a difference.

Head Coach Whitney Brockway praised Oakley’s achievement.

“His reliability, kindness, and drive make him an exceptional candidate for this award,” Brockway said. “Oakley represents the very best qualities we strive to cultivate in our student-athletes. He is without a doubt one of the best athletes that I have ever had the pleasure to coach.”

The Salmon River Central School District proudly congratulates Oakley on earning this prestigious recognition and celebrates the leadership and integrity he brings to the track and field program and the greater community.