Sewickley Academy runner honored for achievements on, off track

By: Ray Fisher
Saturday, June 14, 2025 | 11:46 PM

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Cooper D’Antonio wrapped up his scholastic career as one of Sewickley Academy’s top senior award recipients.

A two-sport competitor in track and cross country, D’Antonio landed the Stan Partenheimer Sportsmanship Award at the spring sports banquet held May 21 in Rhea Auditorium.

“I am very grateful to have received the award,” D’Antonio said. “Leading up to the ceremony, I was not sure if I was going to win anything at all.

“I have worked very hard throughout my athletic career here at Sewickley Academy, and I believe this award perfectly displays all of my accomplishments. The award is much more than just showing good sportsmanship — it represents the athlete who has strengthened their community through building relationships, providing wisdom and helping to construct a welcoming environment within the team.”

D’Antonio, at 5-foot-10, 150 pounds, was an 800-meter specialist in the boys track and field program at Sewickley. He also competed in the 400-meter and two relays, the 1,600 and 3,200.

He was a three-time WPIAL qualifier in the 800 and the 3,200 relay and earned most improved and most outstanding athlete honors as a Sewickley runner.

“Some of my favorite memories during my athletic career have included achieving my goals,” D’Antonio said. “I also have very fond memories of the relationships I formed during my time as a Sewickley Academy athlete. I met people that shaped my experience as a member on the teams, and they inspired me to become the leader I am today.

“Above all though, my favorite memory was in one of my last-ever 800-meter races, I crossed the line in a time of two minutes flat — a huge personal record and a big goal of mine. I was greeted by my coaches and teammates, who showed me exhilarating support. That race alone secured myself a spot in the WPIAL championships, and it will be a moment I hold close to me forever.”

D’Antonio participated in both track and cross country in all four years of his high school tenure.

“I am proud to say that I led both teams as captains during my last two years at the academy,” he said. “I invested most of my time (outside the classroom) into track and cross country.”

The 18-year-old D’Antonio will be attending Virgina Tech in the fall and major in financial planning.

Tags: Sewickley Academy