CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Harvard Recreation is proud to recognize the outstanding student-athletes, leaders, officials, and organizations honored through the 2026 Club Sports and House Intramural Awards. These annual awards celebrate students and teams who exemplify athletic excellence, leadership, community-building, sportsmanship, and a lasting commitment to Harvard’s club sports and intramural programs.
The 2026 Club Sport Athletes of the Year are Alexis “Lexi” Williams ’26 of the Harvard Women’s Basketball Club and Ben Ford ’26 of the Harvard Running Club. Williams was recognized for her exceptional leadership, humility, and dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive team culture. Her ability to balance the logistical responsibilities of running a club program while uplifting her teammates has left a meaningful impact on the Harvard Women’s Basketball Club.
Ford was honored for his leadership and athletic excellence within the Harvard Running Club. As a key member and president of the club, he helped build traditions, strengthen external relationships, and create an environment where members felt excited to run, compete, and connect. His athletic accomplishments include qualifying for the Boston Marathon as a first-year student and running a half-marathon personal record of 1:17:28.
Harvard Recreation and the Club Sports Office also named the Harvard Crimson Dance Team the 2026 Club Sport Organization of the Year. The team had a historic year, becoming the first in Harvard history to qualify for the finals at the UDA Collegiate Nationals, where they placed 8th in Division 1 Pom. In addition to their national success, the Crimson Dance Team continued to strengthen campus spirit through performances at Harvard football and basketball games, as well as parades throughout Boston and Cambridge.
The 2026 Paul F. Gilligan III House Intramural Athletes of the Year are Jordy Chaves ’26 of Pforzheimer House and Alexander Stone ’26 of Currier House. Chaves was recognized as a respected leader and standout athlete whose enthusiasm helped strengthen Pforzheimer House’s intramural community. Through his commitment to recruitment, school spirit, and inclusion, he helped introduce many students to House Intramurals and foster a welcoming environment across class years.
Stone was honored for his dedication to Currier House and his ability to bring students together through intramural sports. Known for his energy, positivity, and competitive spirit, Stone helped create an uplifting team culture and inspired his peers through both his leadership and his play.
The 2026 House Intramural Referee of the Year is John Marcucci ’26 of Quincy House. As one of the Head Referees, Marcucci has played an important role in training new officials, managing schedules and payroll, and supporting the smooth operation of the House Intramural program. He is also recognized for his strong rapport with student-athletes and his continued engagement as Quincy House’s Intramural Representative.
Harvard Recreation also congratulates the 2026 Club Sport Awards Honorable Mentions: Tatum Meuller ’27 of the Harvard Fencing Club, Sukhraj Dulay ’26 of the Harvard Curling Club, and Harvard Pickleball Club for Organization of the Year honorable mention.
“These award winners represent the very best of Harvard’s recreation community,” said Harvard Recreation. “Their leadership, dedication, and commitment to building welcoming and spirited teams have made a lasting impact on club sports and House Intramurals. We are proud to celebrate their accomplishments and the communities they continue to strengthen.”
For more information about Harvard Recreation, Club Sports, and House Intramurals, visit the Harvard Recreation website.
