HONESDALE — In many ways, Rylan Montgomery is just your average everyday hard-working Wayne County farm kid.
Upon closer inspection though, it quickly becomes apparent that he is so much more. A standout multi-sport athlete and passionate student, Montgomery was recently awarded a college scholarship from a local TV station and law firm.
On Tuesday morning, FOX-56 announced that Montgomery had been named the winner of this year’s $5,000 scholarship, which is co-sponsored by the Figured Law Firm in Sweet Valley.
A total of 20 high school seniors from all over northeastern Pennsylvania were nominated for the 2024 award, but Montgomery was ultimately chosen as the winner.
“I was definitely surprised,” Montgomery said. “With so many high quality candidates it was an honor just to be nominated. It’s very rewarding to be recognized for of all my hard work in sports and in the classroom.”
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Honesdale High School Principal Dr. Peter Jordan was on hand to witness the presentation and had nothing but praise for the senior student-athlete.
“In my entire career, I can count on one hand the number of kids who take both the student and athlete aspects of their high school career to the levels Rylan Montgomery has,” Dr. Jordan said.
“I think that WQMY made an outstanding decision in selecting Rylan for this prestigious scholarship and our school couldn’t be more proud to have Rylan as our first-ever winner of this award.”
Montgomery grew up on the family farm in Damascus Township.
In addition to helping out with the animals, he immersed himself in sports and academics from an early age. Montgomery has played football, basketball and soccer during his varsity career and also helps out in the spring with Unified Track & Field.
“Being a Hornet has meant the world to me,” Montgomery said. “Sports have defined my life for as long as I can remember and Honesdale has given me memorable experiences during every season.”
Montgomery has also been a true standout in the classroom. He’s currently ranked second in his class academically while also serving as president of Honesdale’s National Honor Society. Montgomery is a member of the Student Council and active in the Calkins Ag 4-H Club.
“Academics and extracurriculars have been a huge part of my life,” he said. “I truly appreciate all the teachers who’ve shaped my life, helping me in the classroom and leading the clubs I’m involved in.”
Montgomery is off to a stellar start this year on the varsity hardwood.
A versatile senior who plays both guard and forward, Montgomery is among the team leaders in scoring and rebounding. Through the first six games of season, he’s scored 50 points on the strength of 19 field goals and five free throws.
On Tuesday night against North Pocono, Montgomery powered his way to a game-high 17 points via five baskets, two treys and a 1-for-1 stint at the stripe.
Montgomery added five rebounds, one assist and a pair of steals, a fact that coach Jon Gillow says reflects his versatility and value to the team.
“Rylan is a great all-around basketball player,” the veteran skipper said. “He can shoot the ball from the outside, create for his teammates, and make crucial steals on defense.”
Honesdale battled the visiting Trojans right down to the wire in this one, but came out on the short end of a 63-56 final. In addition to Montgomery, the Hornets received key contributions from Luke Murray (12 pts) and Jared Ahern (12 pts).
Sophomore sharpshooter Gavin Briggs also made his presence felt, burying two long treys and winding up with nine points.
Despite the loss, Montgomery believes his team has what it takes to make some serious noise in the division this winter.
“We’re playing great team basketball at the moment,” Montgomery said. “I feel good about our chances to compete for a league title and make a run at districts.”
Rylan is the son of Jay and Emily Montgomery of Damascus.
While he hasn’t yet settled on a particular school he’d like to attend, Montgomery is looking at four-year colleges and universities. He plans to major in Business and one day hopes to earn an MBA.
“As of right now, I’m planning on attending a larger school,” Montgomery said. “I believe that my sports career will most likely be ending after this season, but sports will always be a major part of my life.”
