Bainbridge senior John Willis Maples exemplifies good sportsmanship, honor and integrity on the golf course. Those qualities make him perfect for the 32nd presentation of the Tra Palmer Award.

Every year, the Tra Palmer Award is given to a senior player on the Bearcat golf team that exhibits both on and off the golf course those traits that made Palmer such a special young man.

Golf Coach Tom Wheeler said it wasn’t an easy decision to pick the winner of this year’s award, but Maples did all the little things right that set him apart.

“He was just always present, on time,” said Wheeler. “He was hardworking. He was always offering to help, and he wanted to know what he could do to help.”

Palmer loved life, was an avid sportsman, and although he was never the “best” athlete on each team he participated in, he was an extraordinary team player.

His enthusiasm, encouragement and endurance made all who knew him love him. Palmer’s parents honor those precious memories of their son by giving this award to the young man or woman who has not only given unselfishly to help make the team better, but who also excels in the classroom as a student.