It’s that special moment again! Voting has officially begun for The Shreveport Times High School Athlete of the Week, an excellent opportunity for the local community to come together and honor the remarkable accomplishments of Louisiana’s high school athletes. Whether you’re the elated parent of a nominee, a supportive peer, a committed coach, or just […]
It’s that special moment again! Voting has officially begun for The Shreveport Times High School Athlete of the Week, an excellent opportunity for the local community to come together and honor the remarkable accomplishments of Louisiana’s high school athletes. Whether you’re the elated parent of a nominee, a supportive peer, a committed coach, or just someone who appreciates witnessing young talent flourish, this is your moment to make your voice heard.
Here’s the essential information: voting is accessible to all and is conducted online through Thursday night. You can locate the ballot in the “sports” section at shreveporttimes.com. It’s a simple and swift way to extend your support to the athletes who have strived tirelessly both in competition and in their communities. The victor will be revealed on Friday, granting significant recognition to the student-athlete who garners the most community backing.
For athletes to qualify for this weekly recognition, they must be participants in Louisiana high school sports approved by the LHSAA, with an emphasis on sports other than football. This means that contenders from volleyball, basketball, soccer, wrestling, cross country, swimming, and several others have the opportunity to shine in this distinct contest. A substantial part of the influence rests in the hands of supporters, enabling them to elevate deserving student-athletes within these sports.
Keep in mind, this competition is not merely a contest – it’s a chance to uplift young athletes who invest their passion in representing their schools and communities. So, rally your family and friends, log in, and place your vote to back these promising stars. Together, let’s support them as they forge ahead on their amazing journeys in sports and beyond.
This week’s ballot features an array of exceptional talent, spotlighting 15 dedicated and industrious student-athletes from high schools in northwest Louisiana. These individuals have outperformed expectations in their respective sports, gaining acknowledgment not only for their impressive performances but also for their tenacity and commitment. Let’s delve deeper into the incredible athletes highlighted in the Week 14 ballot.
In soccer, Hudson Moore of Loyola is showcasing an outstanding season, exhibiting exceptional skill and leadership on the field. His teammates and rivals cannot help but be impressed by his accuracy and strategic mindset during competitions. Also representing soccer are Benton’s Zian Toves and Caddo Magnet’s Isabella Baltov, both of whom have consistently made game-winning contributions while showcasing relentless determination and focus.
The basketball section is overflowing with talent this week, featuring multiple players making an impact in and around Shreveport-Bossier. Zwolle’s Preston Sanders and Ringgold’s LaDaunte McCoy have enthralled fans with their dynamic performances and clutch plays. Meanwhile, Mansfield’s Sharmal Booker and Woodlawn’s Johntavious Scroggins have displayed their skill on the court by guiding their teams to heart-pounding victories. Parkway’s Caleb Evans and Winnfield’s Jaylon Jackson have also secured spots with their impressive scoring and defensive prowess that has captivated fans. And we can’t overlook Minden’s Travesti Byrd, renowned for their unwavering determination and ability to excite fans with their gameplay.
On the girls’ basketball side, Brooke Bell of Byrd has captured the interest of fans and coaches with her calm demeanor under pressure and ability to shine in high-stakes scenarios. Northwood’s Ralph Anyanechi continues to dominate on the court, drawing praise akin to some of the legends in the school’s history. Completing the basketball lineup is Evangel’s CJ Shifflett, a player who consistently lights up the scoreboard while demonstrating excellent sportsmanship and teamwork.
Lastly, the wrestling mats have highlighted their stars this week, with Jacob Kershaw from North DeSoto and Zander Hobson from Haughton bringing their best efforts. Both have accumulated impressive victories and consistently demonstrate toughness, agility, and careful preparation – traits that make them worthy of this acclaim.
Each nomination was made not just due to their noteworthy statistics but also because of their unwavering commitment to their sport and team. Most nominations were submitted directly by their coaches, who observe the countless hours of practice, the perseverance through challenges, and the passion these athletes bring to their crafts. Their inclusion on this slate mirrors the trust and esteem they’ve gained within their schools and communities.
Whether you’re rooting for a fellow student, a family member, or a rising star that inspires you, now’s the time to make your opinion count. By casting your vote, you’re not only backing a nomination – you’re celebrating the immense hours these young athletes dedicate to honing their skills, representing their schools, and embodying the essence of competitive spirit. Let’s submit those votes and show these athletes how much they are valued!
Securing the title of Athlete of the Week is more than an accolade – it includes some exciting rewards as well. Beyond having their achievements highlighted amongst their peers, the weekly winners receive tangible incentives that embody the support and celebration behind this effort.
Each winner will receive a customized backpack – not just any backpack, but one that proudly indicates their success and marks their status as an exemplary student-athlete in northwest Louisiana. The backpack is a tribute to their dedication and effort, serving as a daily reminder that their hard work is recognized.
Additionally, winners enjoy a boxed lunch combo graciously provided by Raising Cane’s. This is more than a meal; it symbolizes, “We appreciate you and celebrate your efforts.” Such a gesture honors the countless hours spent in practice, early-morning workouts, and late-night games. After all, nourishing both their bodies and confidence is essential for keeping these athletes performing at their best.
Furthermore, winners will receive some extra “swag” from Cosse and Silmon Orthodontics, bringing a touch of fun and flair to their well-deserved accolade. These additional items amplify the meaning of the recognition, presenting a tangible demonstration of the community’s pride in their accomplishments.
Arguably the most meaningful reward is the chance for these young athletes to be featured in The Shreveport Times. This isn’t just a brief mention praising their achievements – it’s an in-depth look at their accolades, their journeys, and what makes them unique. The feature article provides the community with insight into these student-athletes on a personal level, highlighting the obstacles they’ve conquered, the achievements they’ve celebrated, and the steadfast determination that propels them toward greatness.
For many student-athletes, this feature story will become a treasured keepsake, something they can revisit with pride over the years. It stands as a testament to their resilience and achievements throughout their high school journey – and serves as a source of inspiration for younger athletes following in their footsteps.
These rewards extend beyond mere prizes – they’re a means to elevate and motivate young talent, reminding them that their efforts are impactful and significant. At the core of the Athlete of the Week program is a vision: to make sure that each nominee and winner feels recognized, valued, and honored for the commitment they demonstrate to their sport and school.
So, as you place your vote this week and follow the results, understand that you’re actively contributing to enhancing the confidence and spirit of these athletes. Each vote serves as a cheer of encouragement, and every winner epitomizes what’s attainable through dedication, teamwork, and community backing. Let’s keep the enthusiasm alive and ensure these young stars shine even more brightly!
Nomination for Athlete of the Week is an all-inclusive process, valuing community contributions as much as it celebrates athletic successes. If you’ve had the honor of witnessing a student-athlete who has gone the extra mile in their sport, now is the ideal moment to give them the acknowledgment they deserve. The process is simple, and your nomination could significantly spotlight deserving talent.
Coaches, school administrators, and passionate fans play crucial roles in elevating these athletes to the spotlight. Nominations are open to anyone who wishes to underscore the achievements of a high school athlete in an LHSAA-sanctioned non-football sport. Whether it’s a volleyball player who sets records, a soccer player leading their team with both goals and resolve, or a wrestler consistently excelling on the mat, their narrative deserves attention. Each nomination is a testament to the influence these athletes exert on their teams, schools, and communities.
To nominate a student-athlete, simply send an email with the pertinent details to jwatson@shreveporttimes.com. Include the athlete’s name, school, sport, and a brief overview of their accomplishments. This could involve statistics from a recent game, an outstanding streak in their season, or even personal traits that contribute to their status as an exceptional team player and leader. Don’t forget to highlight any remarkable moments or achievements that encapsulate their contribution to their sport. The more context and details you provide, the more their story will shine.
Coaches, this is your opportunity to express gratitude for the athletes who are leaving a lasting impact on your program. You’ve witnessed their growth, discipline, and determination in action. What better way to inspire your team than to honor those who exemplify a model for others to emulate? Administrators, this opportunity transcends sports – it’s your chance to showcase your students’ holistic excellence and their ability to balance academics, athletics, and community engagement.
Fans, we see you rooting in the stands and cheering for your favorite players. You are vital to the heartbeat of the high school sports community. What distinguishes the Athlete of the Week initiative is how it merges this collective enthusiasm with genuine recognition of emerging talent. Every nomination you submit is an opportunity to amplify an athlete’s achievements and assure them that their hard work is recognized.
When you nominate someone, you’re not only acknowledging athletic skill – you’re motivating a young individual who has likely invested countless hours into their craft. You’re providing them a platform that could lead to new opportunities, both within their sport and beyond. Recognizing student-athletes isn’t just about celebrating the moment, but about affirming their potential and inspiring them to pursue even greater aspirations.
So, do not hesitate – if you are aware of a high school athlete deserving of the limelight, seize this opportunity to ensure their story is shared. Submit a nomination, and together, let’s continue honoring the remarkable talent and determination of student-athletes in northwest Louisiana. Whether they are setting records, scoring goals, or simply motivating others through their resilience, every nominee has a narrative worth sharing. Let’s guarantee those stories are acknowledged, valued, and celebrated widely.
Reflecting on the impressive list of previous winners, it’s evident that the Athlete of the Week program has consistently showcased some of the most extraordinary talents in northwest Louisiana. These young athletes not only secured victories for their teams; they embodied the spirit of their schools, united their communities, and established high benchmarks for excellence both on and off the field.
Analeigh Turner, named Week 13’s winner, embodies this spirit. As a member of Loyola’s soccer team, her quickness, sharp strategic insights, and capacity to excel under pressure have distinguished her as a prime player. Analeigh’s achievements serve as a reminder that sports encapsulate not just physical skills but also mental resilience and teamwork. It’s no surprise that fans rallied to support her during voting – her enthusiasm and dedication are truly infectious.
Another notable winner, Logan Bennett, shone in Week 12 with his exceptional capabilities on Evangel’s wrestling team. Excelling at this level necessitates more than just raw strength; it requires strategic acumen, discipline, and a kind of determination that Logan exemplifies in every match. His win highlights the diversity of talent in the area, with athletes from all across the region emerging to demonstrate their strengths.
Week 11’s champion, Claire Allen from Benton’s cross-country team, showcased endurance, concentration, and resilience. Cross country is an especially demanding sport that challenges an athlete’s mental toughness just as much as their physical endurance. Claire’s victory was celebrated not only for her swift pace but also for her ability to uplift her teammates and those cheering her on from the sidelines. Observing her consistent progress throughout the season has been genuinely motivating for runners in her region.
The list of past winners also highlights the exceptional talent in regional volleyball. Ainsley Weeks of Natchitoches Central distinguished herself in Week 10, as did Baleigh Rivers from Loyola volleyball, who took home the Week 9 title. Throughout the season, both athletes displayed remarkable leadership in tense moments, thrilling performances, and a dedication to growth that charged the crowds and elevated their teams.
Week after week, these champions delivered phenomenal performances in their sports, earning the admiration of fellow athletes, coaches, and fans alike. Whether it was Meagan Hill’s electrifying plays for Captain Shreve volleyball in Week 7 or Dalton Bliss from Benton in cross country during Week 6, each recognition represented a moment of community pride. These athletes have devoted countless hours to perfecting their skills while managing demanding schedules filled with academic responsibilities and extracurricular commitments.
What sets this program apart is the wide array of disciplines being recognized. It’s not solely about acknowledging individual excellence; it’s about applauding and celebrating the uncounted hours of dedication that culminate in those dramatic moments before cheering audiences. Week 4’s Lauren Taylor from Parkway cross country, Week 3’s Emersyn Disotell from Benton cheerleading, and Week 1’s Tatum Kay from Natchitoches Central volleyball all contributed unique skills and attributes. From thrilling athletic displays to boosting team morale, these athletes gave everything they had for their sport and the pride of their schools.
Moreover, athletes like Kaitlen Cox and Jack Patillo, recognized early as preseason favorites for Volleyball and Cross Country Players of the Year, certainly lived up to the high expectations set for them, becoming influential figures in their sports and inspirations for younger athletes in their communities.
The roster of winners exemplifies the incredible talent present in Louisiana’s high school sports landscape. Each name not only signifies an individual triumph but also symbolizes a shared celebration of school spirit, teamwork, and community pride. These athletes bear the hopes and cheers of their peers, the trust of their coaches, and the steadfast support of their families, all of whom significantly contribute to their journeys.
As we advance towards Week 14, these past winners remind us of the incredible feats achievable when young athletes dedicate their hearts to their passions. It’s not merely about physical achievements – it’s about resilience, commitment, and the bravery to reach for excellence. Each success, no matter its scale, lays the groundwork for continuous learning, growth, and achievement. Here’s to honoring their successes and drawing inspiration from their tales as we await the next deserving honoree in this remarkable lineup.
