36 AQUINAS LANDMARK | SUMMER 2024 school news On Monday, April 22, we recognized Trenton “Trent” Hill Jr., Class of 2024, for earning the very prestigious Black Lion Award. e Black Lion Award is given in memory of Major Don Holleder ’52, former West Point All-American who died in combat in Vietnam on October 17, 1967 and the men of the Black Lions – the 28th Infantry Regiment – who died with him that day. Trent possesses all of the qualities that this very meaningful award stands for. Since enrolling at Aquinas, Trent has been the epitome of what an Aquinas student athlete should be. He maintained a grade point average in the 90s throughout his academic career, and possesses a leadership quality that one can only be born with. Trent is the kind of young man that makes those around him better. He is a leader who leads by example rst. “Trent is a remarkable young man who embodies the values of the Black Lion Award,” said Maurice Jackson, Head Coach of the Aquinas Varsity Football Team. “For the past three years, Trent has been a very important part of our football team. He understands that leadership comes in many forms. Starring in many di erent rolls, Trent was o en asked to play positions that he wasn’t familiar with because of the level of trust we all had in him. He made sure to prepare himself in whichever roll was needed by him and excelled because it was for the greater good of the team.” Coach Jackson praises Trent’s high level of trust that was needed for the team’s success, noting, “He always respected the decisions I made as a coach and motivated his teammates whether at practice or during a game. at kind of leadership was vital, and ultimately led to our successful season.” Trent was named Varsity Captain in his junior and senior years. He never missed practice or li ing sessions, and he participated in lm study, always asking questions to make sure other players understood their responsibilities and assignments. Trent has shown and spoken to younger players about the importance of having a team- rst mentality. His message has always been “we before me” and he’s lived up to that message each day, both on and o the eld. Not only was Trent a leader on the football eld, he was a leader on the Varsity Track & Field Team, a student ambassador, and an active member of the senior student council. As impressive as his leadership roles may be, none are more important to him than protecting and mentoring his two younger sisters. He takes great pride in being their big brother. Trent is an exemplary role model, demonstrating his commitment to family and community. When asked who would be the person worthy of the Black Lion Award, Coach Jackson stated, “Trent was the rst person that came to mind. However, it wasn’t until a er I learned more about Major Don Holleder and his self-sacri ce for the team ahead, that I realized Trent is more deserving of this prestigious honor than I ever could have grasped.” e faculty, sta , coaches, and Aquinas community, are proud to recognize Trent for his outstanding achievements and contributions. Trent will go on to play football at St. John Fisher this fall 2024. We wish him all the best, but have no doubt he will continue to serve as a role model and source of inspiration for all. TRENT HILL JR. ’24 RECEIVES BLACK LION AWARD Holleder’s AQ Class & Teammates – Joe Miller ’51, Ron Mack ’53, and Charlie Schiano ’52 – pictured with Trent Jay Polston ’90 presenting the award
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