Two Saint Paul Academy and Summit School seniors have been recognized among the city’s top student-athletes, as Lucia Gonzalez ’26 and Ezra Cunningham ’26 were selected as recipients of the prestigious Winfield Award.

Established in 1977 by Dave Winfield (a St. Paul native and Baseball Hall of Famer), the Winfield Awards celebrate outstanding BIPOC high school student-athletes across St. Paul. The honor recognizes individuals who demonstrate excellence in academics, athletics, and community service. Over the past four decades, the program has recognized more than 400 student-athletes and continues to uplift and encourage young leaders of color in the community.

Lucia Gonzalez has built an exceptional career on the soccer field, serving as a two-time team captain and leading SPA to a Class A State Championship in 2023 after a runner-up finish in 2022. A consistent All-Conference performer, Gonzalez earned All-State honors in 2025 and was named Team MVP in both 2024 and 2025. In addition to her impact on the pitch, she has contributed to the girls’ lacrosse program as a manager and player, demonstrating her commitment to supporting teammates across programs.

Ezra Cunningham has been a standout leader for the boys’ basketball team, serving as captain for the past two seasons. A three-time All-Conference honoree and 2025-26 Team MVP, Cunningham reached a major milestone this winter by surpassing 1,000 career varsity points, leading one of the winningest SPA boys basketball teams in history. He has also contributed to the baseball program, earning All-Conference Honorable Mention honors earlier in his high school career.

The Winfield Awards are presented annually to the top senior student-athletes of color from each St. Paul secondary school, with ten finalists selected citywide. Final honorees will be recognized at the Winfield Awards Banquet at the end of May.

Both recipients exemplify the values at the heart of the Winfield Awards: leadership, dedication, and a commitment to excellence both on and off the field. SPA is proud to celebrate their achievements and the impact they continue to make within the school and broader community! Congratulations, Lucia and Ezra!