In the Greater Flint area, a remarkable group of high school seniors is preparing to step into the next chapter of life. These young men and women are not only excelling in their classrooms, often ranking at the top of their graduating classes, but they are also dedicating themselves to athletics. Their participation in sports is not just an extracurricular activity. It is a defining force that shapes their personal growth, health, career readiness, and connection to the community around them.
On a personal level, sports teach lessons that cannot be replicated in a traditional classroom. Student athletes learn discipline by balancing early morning practices, long school days, and late night study sessions. They develop resilience through both victory and defeat, understanding that success rarely comes without setbacks. These experiences build confidence and self respect. They learn how to lead, support teammates, and push beyond their perceived limits. These qualities stay with them long after the final whistle of their high school careers.
Health is another critical benefit of sports participation. In a time when sedentary lifestyles and screen time are increasingly common, student athletes maintain active routines that support both physical and mental well being. Regular exercise improves cardiovascular health, strength, and endurance. It also reduces stress and anxiety, providing a healthy outlet for the pressures of senior year. These students are not only preparing for graduation but also building habits that can lead to healthier lives.
The impact of sports extends into career development as well. Colleges and employers consistently value the skills that athletes bring to the table. Time management, teamwork, accountability, and perseverance are all qualities developed through athletics. Many students find that their athletic experiences set them apart in applications and interviews. Coaches and parents play a significant role in guiding these students, helping them see how lessons learned on the field or court translate into future success. Whether they pursue higher education, skilled trades, or immediate entry into the workforce, their athletic background provides a strong foundation.
The role of family and mentorship cannot be overlooked. Parents who encourage participation in sports often instill values of commitment and responsibility from a young age. Coaches act as mentors, offering guidance that goes beyond the game. Together, they create an environment where students can thrive. The choices these seniors have made reflect a support system that believes in their potential. Much of their success is a shared achievement.
Sports also strengthen the community. Friday night games, weekend tournaments, and school rivalries bring people together. These events foster unity, giving residents a reason to celebrate their local schools and students. High school athletes often become role models for younger children, inspiring the next generation to stay active and committed. The sense of belonging that comes from being part of a team or cheering for one builds connections beyond school walls.
Looking beyond graduation, the benefits of sports continue to shape these young adults. They enter the world equipped with the skills needed to face challenges and seize opportunities. Their experiences as student athletes prepare them to contribute positively to their communities, workplaces, and families.
For the top varsity athletes featured on the following pages, sports are more than games. They are a pathway to growth, health, opportunity, and community connection. As these students move forward into bright futures, the lessons they have learned through athletics will remain a lasting and powerful influence.
Atherton High School
Deavante Deleon
Class of 2026
Sports: Football, Track, Basketball
Deavante Deleon is a rising star in the Atherton Community Schools family. The three sport standout is not only tremendous on the football field, track and basketball court, but also is a very good student. Deavante is currently carrying a 3.3 GPA and looking to improve as he finishes his final semester of high school. It has been a joy for the school district to see Deavante excel during his time at Atherton. His teachers, coaches and administration all see him as a positive role model for their younger students and always willing to give a hand when needed. Deavante finished his football season with 104 carries for 1,572 yards and 12 touchdowns in eight games. Deavante is a three time regional and state qualifier in track 110 hurdles and 4x 200 relay. Deavante is a three-year varsity basketball player and team captain for all 3 sports.
In addition to his success in athletics, Deavante also is active with the Student Council. He will be attending Wayne State University in the fall of 2026 on a football scholarship.
Roslyn Hobson
Class of 2026
Sports: Volleyball, Bowling, Softball, Golf
Roslyn Hobson has grown and achieved so much in her athletic career at Atherton Jr./Sr. High School. She’s participated in various sporting events since her middle school years, which helped mold her multi-sport journey in high school, in addition to being active with Student Council. Roslyn displayed great sportsmanship, team work and dedication throughout her time at Atherton High School. Roslyn participated in Varsity Bowling for four years and enjoyed competing on a few Regional winning teams. She also showcased a great attitude while on the Varsity Volleyball team for four years. Roslyn has been a staple on the Varsity Softball team for three years and also participated on the Varsity Golf team for two years. Roslyn is very bright and has made the Wolverine community proud with her hard work ethic and determination. Roslyn plans to attend Mott Community College for an associates degree in Science. She also plans to attend Central Michigan University for a Meteorology degree.
Bendle High School
Caleb Bingham
Class of 2026
Sports: Football, Basketball, Track
Caleb Bingham is an outstanding student-athlete who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and performance across multiple sports. He serves as a captain of the track, basketball, and football teams, reflecting the respect he has earned from both his coaches and teammates. Caleb has been recognized as a 1st Team All-Conference selection in football, basketball, and track, highlighting his elite level of play year-round. Additionally, he was invited to participate in the Mott Bruins Classic Basketball All-Star Game this year, an honor reserved for the top players in the area. In addition to sports, he is active in the National Honor Society and Links. Caleb will attend Mott Community College.
Kendra Waller
Class of 2026
Sports: Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, Track
Kendra Waller is a top-ranked student, holding the #1 position in her class with a 4.0 GPA. A dedicated and accomplished multi-sport athlete, she has served as team captain and earned all-conference honors in volleyball, basketball, and softball, while also qualifying for regional competition in track. She’s also active with Links. Kendra will attend Mott Community College.
Bentley High School
Abagail Rose
Class of 2026
Sports: Softball, Powerlifting, Bowling, Track
Abagail Rose currently has a 4.0 GPA and ranks second in her class. She is a great student-athlete and represents Bentley at a very high level. She is always willing and eager to be involved and try new activities. Abagail is a very outgoing person, which helps her to be a tremendous leader in the school and the community. Abagail is a 2026 GAC Scholar Athlete Award winner. She has been a member of the Varsity Basketball team, Powerlifting team, Varsity Track team, and Varsity Softball team, during her time at Bentley. She was the National Honor Society president and Student Council treasurer.
She will attend Saginaw Valley State University in the fall to major in Pre-Law and minor in Constitutional Studies and Political Science. She has represented Bentley at a very high level and with her work ethic and character, she will no doubt be successful in everything she does in the future.
Gabriel Prast
Class of 2026
Sports: Football, Powerlifting
Gabriel Prast currently has a 3.9 GPA. He is a tremendous student-athlete and person and is a great asset to Bentley High School and the community. He is also a great leader on and off the field. Gabriel is a 2026 GAC Scholar Athlete Award winner. He has been a member of the Varsity Football team and Powerlifting team throughout his time in high school. Gabriel demonstrates leadership, dedication, and a strong voice for his peers. He has been active with the National Honor Society, Student Council, Senior Student Representative for the School Board.
He will attend Saginaw Valley State University in the fall to pursue a degree in business. He hopes to open his own business some day.
Carman-Ainsworth High School
Malachi Majeed
Class of 2026
Sports: Football, Wrestling, Basketball, Track and Field
Malachi Majeed is a standout student-athlete from Carman-Ainsworth High School and a proud member of the Class of 2026. A dedicated and well-rounded individual, Malachi has excelled both academically and athletically while actively contributing to his school community.
Malachi plans to pursue a degree in Engineering, with aspirations to attend Wayne State University or Grand Valley State University. His commitment to excellence extends beyond the classroom, as he is deeply involved in several leadership and service organizations, including Student Council, Hope Squad, AASA, and Students for Christ.
A four-sport athlete, Malachi has demonstrated exceptional versatility and achievement across multiple disciplines. In football, he has been a four-year contributor, earning 2nd Team All-State honors in 2024 and 1st Team All-State recognition in 2025. In wrestling, he reached the Regional Finals in 2026, showcasing his competitiveness and resilience. On the basketball court, he was a key member of Carman-Ainsworth’s Division 1 Final Four team in 2025. In track and field, Malachi competed for four years and qualified for the state meet in shot put in 2025.
In recognition of his outstanding accomplishments and multi-sport excellence, Malachi has been named a finalist for the 2026 Rich Tompkins Michigan High School Coaches Association Multi-Sport Athlete Award.
Kyndal Murphy
Class of 2026
Sports: Sideline Cheer, Competitive Cheer, Track and Field
Kyndal Murphy, a member of the Class of 2026, proudly represents Carman-Ainsworth High School as one of Greater Flint’s top high school athletes. Following graduation, she plans to attend Michigan State University to pursue a degree in Kinesiology. A dedicated and versatile competitor, Kyndal has excelled as a three-sport athlete, participating in sideline cheer, competitive cheer, and track and field. Beyond athletics, she is deeply involved in her school community, contributing her leadership and service through Student Council, National Honor Society, AASA, and Black Achievers.
Kyndal’s commitment to both academics and athletics is evident in her consistent recognition on the Saginaw Valley League All-Academic Team throughout all four years of high school. On the track, she has earned All-Region honors during her sophomore and junior years, qualifying for the State Championships in both seasons.
As a junior, Kyndal made school history by breaking the Carman-Ainsworth 200-meter record. She was also named MVP of the Carman-Ainsworth Track Team in both 2024 and 2025, further highlighting her impact and excellence in the sport. Kyndal’s achievements reflect not only her talent, but also her discipline, leadership, and dedication to success in all areas of her high school career.
Clio High School
Kelcy Sperling
Class of 2026
Sports: Volleyball, Basketball, Softball
Kelcy Sperling exemplifies the true student-athlete, maintaining a 3.891 GPA while competing in three sports. She also is a member of the National Honor Society and Student Council and is a dual enrollment student. She has earned nine varsity letters and All-League honors in both basketball and softball, along with multiple All-League and All-District selections on the diamond. A leader on and off the field, Kelcy consistently elevates those around her and makes our school a better place. Kelcy will attend Saginaw Valley State University to pursue a degree in occupational therapy.
D’Marion Erlenbeck
Class of 2026
Sports: Football, Wrestling, Baseball
D’Marion Erlenbeck ranks among the finest athletes in Clio history, excelling as a three-sport standout and earning All-League honors in each. On the football field, he was a First Team All-League and First Team All-State selection for the Mustangs. He carried that success into the winter, earning All-State honors in wrestling and finishing as a state runner-up. In the spring, D’Marion led the baseball team as a 2025 All-Region performer. He is also a youth wrestling coach and wrestling referee. D’Marion will attend Mott Community College to continue his education while pursuing both wrestling and baseball.
