WHGBL Awards Three $1,000 Scholarships to Former Players
*** MEDIA ALERT ***
For Immediate Release
March 9, 2026
Contact: Shawn Daly, President – West Hartford Girls Basketball League
(860) 906-8414 phone, president@whgbl.org email
West Hartford Girls Basketball League Awards Three $1,000 University Scholarships to Former Players
West Hartford, CT – The West Hartford Girls Basketball League (WHGBL) is proud to announce that three outstanding former players have each been awarded a $1,000 university scholarship in recognition of their leadership, academic achievement, and commitment to the values of the league.
The girls received their award during the Award Ceremony on Sunday, March 8, in between the WHGBL Seniors Division Championship Game and the Juniors Division Championship Game. The games and the award ceremony can be seen on WHCi-TV community television.
This year marks a milestone for the WHGBL scholarship program, as three scholarships were awarded—an unprecedented number made possible through the generous support of league sponsors Trinh Law and Common Good Home Buyers.
The 2026 WHGBL Scholarship recipients are:
• Anya Leshem
• Susannah Lasek
• Chloe Lynch
Each recipient submitted a personal essay reflecting on her time in the WHGBL and how the league shaped her growth both on and off the court.
Anya Leshem began her basketball journey in the fourth grade with the WHGBL Bulldogs. What started as a new experience among unfamiliar teammates quickly became the foundation of lasting friendships and a deep love for the game. Leshem went on to become a four-year varsity starter and senior captain at Hall High School, earning All-Conference honors and helping lead her team to its first state tournament appearance in five years. She will continue her academic and athletic career at Springfield College as a member of the women’s lacrosse team.
Susannah Lasek reflected on how the WHGBL was a constant throughout her childhood in West Hartford. From her early days in the Minors Division to competing in the Juniors and Seniors Divisions, she credits the league with helping her build confidence, overcome self-doubt, and form lifelong friendships. She also spoke about the meaningful family connections forged in the stands and on the sidelines, including being coached by her mother and supported at every game by her grandfather. Inspired by her experience, she now volunteers as a youth coach, striving to create the same positive environment for the next generation of players.
Chloe Lynch described joining the WHGBL as a shy fourth grader who was initially hesitant to step onto the court. Through the encouragement of her coaches and teammates, she developed confidence, resilience, and leadership skills that would later define her high school career. At Hall High School, she became a senior co-captain, recognized for her work ethic and dedication. Lynch plans to major in nursing in college and intends to remain involved in basketball through club or intramural programs, citing the sport as a vital source of balance and community in her life.
“We are so proud to support West Hartford young ladies with these scholarships,” said Shawn Daly, President of the WHGBL. “Through the assistance of two sponsors, Trinh Law and Common Good Home Buyers, we were able to provide an unprecedented three scholarships this year to well-deserving former players in the WHGBL. We wish them all the best for their future university experience.”
The WHGBL University Scholarship Program recognizes former players who exemplify the league’s core principles: teamwork, perseverance, leadership, and community engagement. Applicants are asked to reflect on how their time in the league influenced their high school experience and prepared them for college and beyond.
The West Hartford Girls Basketball League is open to girls in grades 3 through 8 and is dedicated to teaching leadership values through understanding the fundamentals of basketball. Through volunteer coaching, community partnerships, and a strong emphasis on sportsmanship, the league continues to serve as a developmental foundation for young female athletes across West Hartford.
For more information about the WHGBL and its University Scholarship Program, visit www.whgbl.org
###