The Texas high school sports scene is heating up, and the Big Country has delivered a week of unforgettable performances from April 27 to May 2. As the 2026 baseball and softball seasons gain momentum, student-athletes from Stamford, Coleman, Hawley, Abilene High, Coahoma, Jim Ned, Clyde, Stephenville, Wylie, and Brownwood have stepped up to claim their spot in the spotlight.
This week’s City National Bank Athlete of the Week nominations, presented by the Abilene Reporter-News, celebrate the grit and determination that define Texas high school sports. From clutch hits on the diamond to record-breaking runs on the track, these athletes have shown what it means to compete at the highest level.
Track and field fans were treated to a thrilling showcase at Abilene Christian University’s Elmer Gray Stadium during the Regions I-3A and II-1A Championships. Rylinn Robertson of Eden led the pack in the Region 2-1A Girls 3200-meter run, while Addysun Villa of Crowell, Naveah Martinez of Knox City, and Maci Tretter of Strawn pushed the pace. On the boys’ side, Camden Lummus of Roby gritted his teeth as he crossed the finish line first in the Region 2-1A 3200-meter run, embodying the heart of a champion. Hartleigh Dahlberg of Clyde Eula and Maci Scott of Jayton also battled side-by-side in the Region 1-3A Girls 3200-meter run, showcasing the depth of talent in the Big Country.
Nominations are now open for this week’s honors, and we want to hear from you. To nominate a standout athlete, please send their stats from the week’s games, along with any relevant honors or achievements, to sports@reporternews.com or Andrew.McCulloch@reporternews.com by 7 p.m. Saturday. Students in all varsity sports are eligible, but each athlete can only win once per season per sport, and no single school can claim the title for more than three consecutive weeks.
Cast your vote now in our poll, which closes at 5 p.m. Friday. The winner will be announced shortly after, so don’t miss your chance to support the next Big Country legend. Whether it’s a game-winning hit, a buzzer-beater, or a personal best on the track, these athletes are writing their own stories—and we’re here to celebrate every moment.