Laci Ekoniak and Grayce Martinez are the Student Athletes of the Week at Struthers High School for the week of October 15 to October 21.
Ekoniak is a senior on the varsity cheer team and is also the head captain. This is her 12th year cheering, suggesting that the sport that she partakes in holds a special place in her heart.
Ekoniak feels proud of herself for achieving this award.
“It’s an honor to be nominated and recognized for the sport I love most,” says the athlete.
Ekoniak was nominated by head cheer coach, Mrs. Dubos. Dubos noticed her great leadership roles, finding that Ekoniak fit the “Student Athlete of the Week” title very well.
Ekoniak has positive advice for other athletes who are hoping to achieve this title.
“Keep working hard and let your passion shine through to others. Try to step up and become a leader for yourself and your team,” says the cheerleader.
Grayce Martinez is the second student athlete of the week who was nominated. Martinez is a freshman and also a newer addition to the team.
Martinez was quite surprised when she found out that she was nominated for Athlete of the Week by Coach Ford.
“I feel like I didn’t deserve it, but at the same time I’m proud of myself,” says the runner.
Even though Martinez is new to the cross country team, she feels as if she learned a lot within her first year.
Martinez also has great advice to other runners.
“Don’t be negative about anything and look the positive way. Run your own race; do not run someone else’s,” says Martinez.
