What Makes a Bag's Buddies Scholar?

When we review scholarship applications each year, we're not looking for perfection. We're looking for something Bag would have recognized immediately: the Play Hard, Have Fun, Same Team spirit.

GPAs and athletic stats tell part of the story. But the students who stand out to our Scholarship Committee are those whose applications reveal character, perseverance, and a commitment to lifting others up.

Here's what we're really searching for.

Beyond the Numbers

A 4.0 GPA is impressive. So is a state championship. But we've awarded scholarships to students with 3.2 GPAs who volunteer 10 hours a week. We've honored athletes who never made varsity but transformed their team's culture.

Captain John "Bag" Hefti didn't measure people by their stats. He measured them by how they treated others, how they showed up, and whether they made the people around them better.

That's our standard too.

Play Hard: The First Pillar

When Bag approached anything in life, he gave it everything he had. In his Navy career. On the coaching field. In his friendships. We look for students who demonstrate that same dedication.

What Playing Hard Looks Like

• Commitment to improvement. Athletes who work to get better every day, not just when it's convenient.
• Perseverance through challenges. Students who don't give up when they hit obstacles—they find another way.
• Dedication to the team. Players who show up for practice, encourage teammates, and push the group forward.
• Sportsmanship. Competitors who play fair and respect their opponents, win or lose.

Real Examples from Past Applications

One of our recipients wrote about her sophomore year, when she tore her ACL the week before regionals. Instead of disappearing from the team, she became the unofficial assistant coach—attending every practice, cheering at every meet, helping younger swimmers with their technique.

Another recipient described his transition from JV to varsity. Rather than focusing on his own playing time, he wrote about the JV players he continued mentoring. "They're still my team," he explained.

In Your Application

Tell us about a time you had to push through adversity. Share how you've grown as an athlete. We want to hear about the work you've put in, not just the trophies you've won.

Have Fun: The Second Pillar

Bag brought joy everywhere he went. His laugh could fill a room. He reminded everyone that life—even the hard parts—should be enjoyed.

What Having Fun Looks Like

• Positive attitude. Students who bring energy and enthusiasm, even on tough days.
• Sense of humor. Athletes who can laugh at themselves and with others.
• Balance. Young people who pursue interests beyond their sport.
• Joy in the journey. Competitors who love the game itself, not just the wins.

Real Examples from Past Applications

A past recipient described starting each practice by learning one fun fact about a different teammate. "By the end of the season, I knew everyone's favorite movie, their pet's name, their biggest fear. We weren't just teammates—we were friends."

Another wrote about organizing team karaoke nights before big games. "We sounded terrible," she admitted. "But we played loose and happy the next day."

In Your Application

Share what you love about your sport. Tell us about a moment of pure joy on the field. Help us see the fun you bring to your team.

Same Team: The Third Pillar

Perhaps the most important of Bag's values: understanding that we're all in this together. True success means lifting others up.

What Same Team Looks Like

• Leadership. Athletes who guide and support their teammates, whether they're captains or not.
• Community service. Students who give back beyond their sport.
• Mentorship. Upperclassmen who help younger athletes grow and feel welcome.
• Team-first mentality. Players who celebrate others' successes as much as their own.

Real Examples from Past Applications

One recipient started a peer tutoring program for teammates struggling academically. "We can't play if we're ineligible," he wrote. "So we study together."

Another organized a team volunteer day at a local food bank. It became an annual tradition that outlasted her graduation.

In Your Application

Tell us how you've made a difference for others. Share examples of putting the team before yourself. We want to hear about your impact on your community.

The Complete Picture

Our strongest applicants excel in all three pillars. They're dedicated athletes who bring joy to their teams and make their communities better places.

But we're also realistic. High school students are works in progress. We're not looking for perfection—we're looking for potential, growth, and the Bag's Buddies spirit.

What Past Recipients Say

Meet our 2025 scholarship recipients

Frequently Asked Questions

What GPA do I need to apply?

We require a minimum 2.5 GPA, but we consider your full academic picture. Upward trends, challenging course loads, and how you balance athletics and academics all matter.

Do I need to be a varsity athlete?

No. We've awarded scholarships to JV athletes, club sports participants, and students who've overcome injuries that limited their playing time. What matters is your commitment and character.

How many scholarships do you award each year?

We typically award 4-6 scholarships annually, ranging from $1,000 to $2,500. The number depends on available funds and the strength of the applicant pool.

What if I play an individual sport?

Individual sport athletes are absolutely welcome. Same Team isn't just about traditional team sports—it's about how you contribute to your athletic community, support fellow athletes, and give back.

Can I apply if I'm not sure I'll play in college?

Yes. We're supporting your education, not requiring you to continue athletics. Many recipients play club sports or intramurals in college, while others focus on academics and careers.

How do I stand out in my application?

Be specific. Don't tell us you're a good teammate—show us with concrete examples. Don't say you play hard—describe a moment when you pushed through something difficult. Real stories are more powerful than generalizations.

Ready to Apply?

If you're a graduating senior at one of our participating partner high schools in Virginia Beach and you embody Play Hard, Have Fun, Same Team, we encourage you to apply. Applications open January 15 each year.

Visit our Scholarships page for eligibility requirements, or start your application when applications are open.

Questions? Contact us—we're always happy to help.

Honoring Captain John "Bag" Hefti's legacy through the next generation of Virginia Beach student-athletes.

Play Hard, Have Fun, Same Team.