Neuse Charter Senior Isabella Strickland Awarded Prestigious FloSports Cross CountryScholarship

Smithfield, NC – April 23, 2026

 

Neuse Charter Senior Isabella Strickland Awarded Prestigious FloSports Cross Country Scholarship

SMITHFIELD, NC — Neuse Charter School is proud to announce that Senior student-athlete Isabella “Bella” Strickland has been named a recipient of the prestigious FloSports Cross Country Scholarship, an honor awarded annually to only one female and one male Cross Country athlete across all classifications in the North Carolina High School Athletic Association.

This recognition highlights not only Bella’s accomplishments as one of the state's premier distance runners but also her excellence in the classroom and leadership within the school community.

During her senior Cross Country season, Bella earned Regional Runner-Up honors and was named to the All-State Team. She also earned All-Conference selection in Cross Country for all four years of her high school career, and she seamlessly established herself as one of the most accomplished athletes in Neuse Charter School’s history. Across Cross Country, indoor track, and outdoor track, she accumulated more than 18 individual conference championships.

Beyond athletics, Bella has distinguished herself both academically and as a leader on campus. She earned the honor of Salutatorian for the Class of 2026, Student Government Association President, and National Honor Society President by demonstrating the same discipline, character, and commitment to excellence in the classroom that she has shown throughout her athletic career.

In the fall, Bella will continue her academic journey at Duke University.

“Bella represents everything you hope for in a student-athlete,” said Neuse Charter Athletic Director Connor Pulley. “Her work ethic, leadership, humility, and commitment to excellence have left a lasting impact on our athletic program and school community. To be recognized as the top female cross country scholarship recipient in the state is a tremendous honor and one that is incredibly well deserved. I am proud that she represents Neuse Charter, and I look forward to seeing what her future holds.”

Neuse Charter congratulates Bella on this outstanding achievement and wishes her continued success in the years ahead.

About Neuse Charter Athletics
Neuse Charter School, located in Smithfield, North Carolina, is committed to excellence in academics and athletics. The Cougar athletic program emphasizes development, discipline, and competitive success across all sports.