Charleston Catholic Senior Zaden Ranson Wins 2026 Hardman Award

Ranson is the first athlete from Charleston Catholic High School to receive the prestigious honor.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 8:55pm

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An abstract expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, with rapid brushstrokes depicting the dynamic movement of a basketball player in mid-jump shot, their form dissolving into a blur of energy and athleticism.Zaden Ranson's award-winning athletic prowess is celebrated in a dynamic, colorful painting that captures the intensity and skill of the Charleston Catholic senior.Charleston Today

Charleston Catholic senior Zaden Ranson has been named the recipient of the 2026 Hardman Award, which is given to the best amateur athlete in West Virginia as voted on by the West Virginia Sportswriter's Association. Ranson plays basketball, baseball, and soccer for the Charleston Catholic Irish and has won state championships in each sport.

Why it matters

The Hardman Award is one of the most prestigious honors for high school athletes in West Virginia, with past winners including sports legends like Randy Moss, Jerry West, and Mary Lou Retton. Ranson's achievement brings national recognition to Charleston Catholic High School and its athletics program.

The details

Ranson was surprised and humbled when he learned he had won the Hardman Award, noting that he couldn't have done it without his teammates and coaches. After completing his senior baseball season with the Irish, Ranson will spend one more year at the Deerfield Academy in Massachusetts before heading off to college. Despite the accolade, Ranson says he wants to stay grounded and represent Charleston Catholic High School well.

  • Zaden Ranson was named the 2026 recipient of the Hardman Award on April 15, 2026.

The players

Zaden Ranson

A senior at Charleston Catholic High School who plays basketball, baseball, and soccer for the Irish, and has won state championships in each sport.

Charleston Catholic High School

A private high school in Charleston, West Virginia, where Zaden Ranson is a senior and plays for the Irish athletics teams.

West Virginia Sportswriter's Association

The organization that votes on and awards the Hardman Award, which goes to the best amateur athlete in West Virginia.

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What they’re saying

“When I figured out what (the award) was and who was on the list, it was just so surreal. To even be considered for this award is really humbling, and I could not do it without my teammates and coaches.”

— Zaden Ranson, Charleston Catholic Senior

“I don't want to get too big-headed off this award. I'm glad I get to represent Charleston Catholic High School as a whole, because this school deserves a lot of attention. I feel like we are one of the best schools in the state.”

— Zaden Ranson, Charleston Catholic Senior

What’s next

After completing his senior baseball season with the Charleston Catholic Irish, Zaden Ranson will spend one more year at the Deerfield Academy in Massachusetts before heading off to college.

The takeaway

Zaden Ranson's Hardman Award win brings national recognition to Charleston Catholic High School and its athletics program, showcasing the school's ability to develop well-rounded, talented student-athletes who excel across multiple sports.