It's time to cast your vote for The News Leader's Athlete of the Week! Every week, we celebrate the incredible performances from high school athletes across our coverage area, and now it's your turn to decide who stood out the most from April 6-11.
Our staff, with input from coaches and fans, has nominated a standout group of competitors. The polls are now open for you to choose the top athlete, and voting will run through Friday at 5 p.m. The winner will be announced this Saturday. Remember, if you have a stellar performance to nominate for next week, be sure to email phite@newsleader.com by Sunday night at 9 p.m.
This week's nominees delivered some truly record-breaking and game-changing moments. From the track to the diamond to the soccer field, here are the athletes in the running:
Riverheads' Sarah Piner made school history in track & field, shattering the discus record with a throw of 118 feet, 9.5 inches. The sophomore also secured a third-place finish in the shot put, showcasing her all-around strength.
On the softball diamond, Buffalo Gap's Elissa Caricofe powered her team to a 13-3 victory with a massive grand slam—a bases-loaded blast in the fifth inning—part of a huge six-RBI day that included a double.
Wilson Memorial's Nolan Deaver was a force at the plate, going 2-for-3 with two RBIs and scoring three runs himself to help fuel a dominant 12-1 baseball win over Fort Defiance.
Back on the track, Wilson Memorial's Livia Clinedinst soared to a first-place tie in the high jump, clearing 5 feet, 4 inches. The junior also sprinted to third in the 100-meter hurdles and helped her 4x400 relay team secure another podium finish.
Stuarts Draft freshman Alexis Waite was a scoring machine for the girls' soccer team, netting four goals and adding an assist across two crucial wins, demonstrating impressive skill and composure for a first-year player.
Finally, Waynesboro's Skylar Sloat excelled in the pole vault, winning her event with a vault of 9 feet, 7 inches, and added a third-place finish in the triple jump, highlighting her versatility as a jumper.
These athletes have already proven themselves as champions on the field. Now, head to the polls and make your voice heard to crown The News Leader's Athlete of the Week!