Class of 2026

Christopher Affolter is one of Ithaca High School’s most accomplished multi-sport athletes. A 1989 graduate, he excelled in both varsity football and varsity lacrosse, earning recognition for his performance, leadership, and sportsmanship.

On the football field, Affolter was a two-way starter for the 1987 and 1988 varsity teams under Coach Ralph Boettger, playing receiver and defensive back. As a senior, he was elected team captain, led Section IV in receptions, earned STAC Division I All-Star honors, and was named the team’s Defensive MVP.

Affolter was equally dominant in lacrosse, playing varsity from 1987–1989 under coaches Jamie Thomas and Frank Welch. A team captain his senior year, he led the team with 120 ground balls, recorded 2 goals and 7 assists, and earned High School All-American honors. In 1989, the team captured both the STAC Division I Championship and the Section IV Class A Championship.

In recognition of his character and leadership, Affolter received the William Burns Memorial Award, honoring the IHS senior who best exemplifies scholarship and sportsmanship.

He went on to play lacrosse at Duke University, lettering all four years and serving as team captain as a senior. Christopher and his wife, fellow IHS Class of 1989 alum Heather Roberts, have two daughters who continued the family lacrosse tradition at the collegiate level.