This week marks the fourth round of the Delta Dental Vermont Varsity Insider Athletes of the Week voting. Fans can vote for a top girls athlete and a top boys athlete every week, with nominations being accepted through the Burlington Free Press website. Voting runs from May 11 until 9 p.m. on May 14, with winners announced on May 15. Athletes nominated include standout performances from Harlow Hier in softball and Marah McGinn, among others, showcasing exceptional skills and contributions across various sports.

By the Numbers
  • Harlow Hier went 6-for-9 with 6 RBIs, including 2 homers in a 4-0 week for Colchester softball.
  • Marah McGinn threw a one-hit shutout and went 4-for-4 with 6 RBIs in a 25-0 victory for BFA-St. Albans.
Yes, But

While each athlete demonstrates impressive statistics, the voting process could favor popular or well-known athletes over those with equally notable performances. Voter engagement and familiarity may skew results, potentially overlooking lesser-known but deserving athletes.

State of Play
  • The voting process is more inclusive this season, allowing for more nominees across both boys' and girls' categories.
  • Public participation in the voting is actively encouraged, with no votes accepted through email or social media.
What's Next

The voting will close on May 14, and the spotlight will turn to the results, highlighting the winners鈥� contributions to their teams. Continued engagement from fans is expected as season competitions progress, possibly leading to increased nominations for top athletes.

Bottom Line

The expanded voting format for the Delta Dental Vermont Varsity Insider reinforces community involvement in high school sports and showcases the talents of diverse athletes. Each week's nominations and performances play a crucial role in building support for younger athletes within the community.