The Citrus County Chronicle’s 2026 STARS (Student Athletic Recognitions) celebration was held recently at the Citrus Springs Community Center, bringing together Citrus County’s top student-athletes, proud families, coaches, and community leaders.
The event recognized standout achievements across fall, winter, and spring sports, including golf, swimming, cross country, volleyball, weightlifting, soccer, basketball, flag football, softball, track and field, tennis, and baseball, for students from Citrus High School, Crystal River High School, Lecanto High School, and Seven Rivers Christian schools. Citrus County Schools Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert served as keynote speaker, sharing an encouraging “Coffee Bean” message, reminding students to choose how they respond to life’s challenges.
Lecanto High School’s JT Tipton was one of the night’s biggest winners, earning three major honors: Athlete of the Year for Basketball, Athlete of the Year for Football, and the 2026 Male Athlete of the Year title. Citrus High School senior Darren Guillen received his Athlete of the Year award in weightlifting, shaking hands with Dr. Hebert after the ceremony.
The evening highlighted not only athletic success but also scholarship, perseverance, leadership, and character. Dr. Hebert’s “Coffee Bean” message card read, “You can be an egg. You can be a carrot. Choose to be … The Coffee Bean!” encouraging students to rise above challenges with resilience.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Crystal River
