As the 2022-2023 high school athletics schedules wrapped up for the year, we invited the 25 Genesee County high schools to choose two athletes – one each from their men’s and women’s sports teams – who excelled in both athletics and academics. The responding schools took care in selecting young people who worked hard to earn awards and accolades for their accomplishments.
Research shows that many student athletes do better academically and that participating in sports can provide many benefits for the youth, their families and communities. Several in this group of honorees have received scholarships that will allow them to compete at the collegiate level as they continue their education. They are leaders and role models, top performers on and off the field and court.
My City is proud to recognize these Genesee County high school standouts.
BEECHER
Robert Lee Jr.
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Track
A member of the MHSAA Division 3 Boys Basketball State Championship team this year, Robert was chosen Associated Press First Team All-State.
Robert will attend Wayne State University in the fall. He plans to major in Sports Management with a minor in Business while playing Basketball for the Warriors.
Amiyah Brown
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Track
Amiyah was selected unanimously to the GAC Red Division All-League First Team in Basketball.
She will attend Wayne State University, enrolled in the Exploratory Pre-Nursing program to prepare for a career as a Labor and Delivery Nurse.
BENDLE
Emillio Riley
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Football, Track & Field
Emillio has been a standout in the classroom and on the court, field and track. Following a very successful football season, he was honored as a unanimous First Team All-Conference player, was a Second Team Area Dream Team selection, and received All-Region accolades. This past winter, Emillio carried his success from the gridiron onto the basketball court and finished the season averaging 15 points, 8 rebounds and 5 steals per game. His effort and hard work were recognized by league coaches as he was named to the Genesee Area Conference First Team. Following his successful fall and winter season, Emillio continued to impress on the track. He ran a respectable 11.5 in the 100-meter and holds the school record for long jump at 19 feet 7 inches. While his successes on the field say a lot, his scholastic achievements speak just as loudly, carrying a 3.2 GPA all while competing in all three seasons. A member of National Honor Society, he was also a Youth Basketball Volunteer
Emillio plans to pursue a degree in Business while playing football at the collegiate level. He is hoping to own a business, have wealth and be happy in his career.
Nikalyn Gunsell
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Cross-Country, Softball, Track & Field, Volleyball
Nikalyn is a true-representative of a student-athlete. She competed in five sports during her senior year while also participating in other school programs. She has been a model citizen and role model for her peers, chosen Team Captain for the Basketball and Track programs. Nikalyn’s hard work and dedication were recognized as she was named First Team All-Conference for Basketball and Cross-Country, while earning Second Team honors for Volleyball. She also medaled in multiple track meets throughout the season. While her work on the field and court were exceptional, her work in the classroom is equally impressive, maintaining a 3.0 GPA throughout her high school career. She also participated in the LINKS Program, Yearbook and Powerlifting.
Nikalyn will attend North Central Michigan College in the fall to study Journalism and participate on the Women’s Basketball team.
BENTLEY
Nathan Mobley
Class of 2023 – Valedictorian
Sports: Football, Powerlifting, Baseball
The 2023 Bentley High School Valedictorian, Nathan is a member of National Honor Society with a 4.07 GPA. He earned First Team All-League and First Team All-Region in football, and is also the captain of the football, baseball and powerlifting teams. An Eagle Scout, Nathan has served as a Cub Scout Den Chief for four years, completing over 1,000 hours of community service. He competed in the Youth Entrepreneurs competition, winning first place at the County and District levels and third in the region. A multi-year recipient of the Citizenship Award, Nathan has been recognized by Burton Mayor Haskins and former State Representative Tim Snellar.
Nathan plans to attend Indiana Tech in the fall, where he has received a full tuition scholarship as well as an offer to play baseball while he pursues a Mechanical Engineering Degree.
Anna Walker
Class of 2023
Sports: Volleyball, Basketball, Softball
A very successful three-sport athlete, Anna exhibits great leadership qualities on and off the field and court. She was involved in many extracurricular activities – National Honor Society (Secretary), Student Athletic Council, Book Club and Art Club, as well as volunteering in the Flint community for City-Wide Clean-Ups, fundraising and community service activities with the Basketball and Softball teams.
Anna will attend Eastern Michigan University in the fall. She is currently undecided about a major, but wants to pursue a career path in which she can help people.
CARMAN-AINSWORTH
Nigell Johnson
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Football, Track
Nigell is a leader on and off the field. In his senior year of football he received First Team Saginaw Valley League Honors, First Team All-Region, and “Quarterback of the Year” from TheUNIT Midwest Recruitment. Also during his senior football season, Nigell completed 2,087 passing yards for 25 TDs, and 445 rushing yards with 5 TDs. He also participated in Basketball and Track. On the honor roll with a 2.82 GPA, he was a LINKS Leader to Carman-Ainsworth underclassmen. He also coached at Air Assault Football Camp and Defy Trampoline Park.
In the fall, Nigell will attend Findlay University on an athletic scholarship for Football to major in Computer Science.
Sierra Robinson
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Golf, Track
Sierra was a leader for the Girls Basketball team’s undefeated regular season and becoming Regional Champions in the postseason. She received First Team Saginaw Valley League honors while also participating in Track and Golf. With a GPA of 3.57, Sierra was a member of the National Honor Society as an Executive Board Treasurer and was nominated for the Robert E. Weiss “Outstanding Youth Award.” She also participated in Vex Robotics, Law and Debate Club, Tutoring, HOSA, AASA, LINKS Leader and Gardening Club.
In the fall, Sierra will major in Nursing at Lawrence Technological University on an athletic scholarship for Women’s Basketball.
DAVISON
Josh Barr
Class of 2023
Sports: Wrestling – HS Career Record: 131-1; 4X Div 1 Individual State Champion; 2x Div 1 Team State Champion; 2X Fargo Champ Freestyle; 2022 Junior World Team Trials Challenge participant; 2023 Mr. Wrestler for the State of Michigan
Josh’s hard work, dedication and commitment to be the best at what he does has earned him recognition as one of the best to come out of the Davison Wrestling program, one that has included a number of great wrestlers over the past 30 years. Many of those athletes have gone on to do tremendous things in the wrestling world after high school and there is no doubt that Josh will do the same. He continues to build a nationally recognized legacy and understands the importance of the grind and how to represent his community and family in the best way possible. He is a head down, nose-to-the-grindstone kind of young man who is motivated to outwork anyone at any time. He will never back down from a challenge, shows grit and wants everyone around him to succeed … actually, he expects that out of everyone around him. This is a great indication as to the kind of young man Josh has grown to become. He is a fine example of a Davison student-athlete as he exemplifies all the attributes needed to be great in all categories – competitor, team, individual and sportsmanship. In the offseason, he trains and works with youth wrestlers. He has accepted a scholarship to wrestle and study at Penn State University.
Morgann King
Class of 2023
Sports: Volleyball – 2yr Varsity, 1st Team All-League (2 yrs League Champion, District and Regional Champion); Tennis – 4yr Varsity, All League
Morgann brings to all of her activities energy, enthusiasm, commitment and a drive to excel like no other, while also carrying a 4.10 GPA ranking her in the top 15 of her class. She is a High Honor Roll All Academic Student-Athlete, which proves her great work ethic does not stop when she steps off the court. Morgann always seems to be looking for ways to better herself, her teammates and help others within, as well as outside the community. She has built great relationships around the school, excelling as a Volleyball and Tennis student-athlete, becoming a big part of the Volleyball team’s success over the past two years. Young people like Morgann do not typically command or demand attention but simply do what is right in class, on the playing field and in the community because it is ingrained into her moral values. Morgann volunteers many hours at church and works at kiddie sports camps. She plans to study Computer Science at a college yet undetermined.
FENTON
Max Haney
Class of 2023
Sports: Swimming
A six-time individual Flint Metro League Champion, Max holds seven of the nine individual Metro League Records. He was a four-year state qualifier and although he missed out on the state finals both his freshman and sophomore years due to COVID, he was All-State as a junior. As a senior, Max was a two-time State Champion in both the 200 IM and 100 Backstroke, achieving All-American status in both. As a result of his outstanding performance at this year’s state finals, Max was awarded the MISCA D2 Swimmer of the Year award. During the course of his high school career, Max has set all eight individual school records in swimming, all three school relay records, and owns multiple pool records around the state. As Team Captain his senior year, he was both a leader and a role model to his teammates. Max’s accomplishments go beyond the pool as he earned 3.81 GPA and was Academic All-Metro League, All-State and All-American his senior year. His extracurricular participation included OLY Swim Team and LifeSmarts.
Max will be attending and swimming for Oakland University next fall.
Adrienne Staib
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Volleyball
National Honor Society – Executive Member, ECO Club – Executive Member, Captains Club, Play Like Jackson Foundation Volunteer, Yearbook Photographer
Adrie is one of Fenton’s finest. As a four-year varsity member player for both Volleyball and Basketball, she was also a scholar-athlete who excelled in the classroom with a 4.045 GPA and still found time to volunteer and participate in numerous extracurricular activities. In Volleyball, she was named First Team All-League in 2022 and 2023, as well as All-Region First Team and the JVA All-American Watch List in 2023. In Basketball, Adrie was a member of the Tri County Times Dream Team in 2022 and 2023, and also won First Team All-League honors in 2021, 2022 and 2023. She is the complete package both on and off the field, leading by example with her work ethic and respect for those around her.
Adrie will play collegiate Volleyball on a scholarship at West Liberty University in West Virginia where she will study Cyber Security.
FLINT ELITE
Shamar Liggins
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Football, Track
A leader on and off the field, this three-sport athlete was Captain of both the Football and Basketball teams. On the court, Shamar averaged 20 points, 5 assists and 2 steals per game during his senior year, and achieved membership in the 1,000 point scoring club. He led by example athletically and academically, carrying a 3.1 GPA.
Shamar’s goal is to make it to the NBA! In the meantime, he plans to study Sports Medicine and become an athletic trainer.
Jamyah Gray
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Track & Field, Volleyball
A four-year letter-earner at Madison Academy High School, Jamyah served as Captain and earned All-Conference honors in both Volleyball and Basketball. Academically, she boasted a 3.7 GPA while having college prep courses through Genesee Career Institute in her daily curriculum, traveling to Hurley Medical Center to complete course lab work. Jamyah was an active member of both National Honor Society and Student Council. She also understands the importance of serving/volunteering, selflessly committing her time to community engagements and school events.
Jamyah earned multiple academic and athletic scholarships to various institutions, universities and colleges including Eastern Michigan University, LSU, Wayne State University, Albion College, Grand Valley State University and others. She was blessed with an opportunity to further her education and athletic career at Albion College.
GENESEE
James Winn
Class of 2023
Sports: Baseball, Basketball, Football
James played center for the Varsity Basketball team, averaging 10 points and 15 rebounds, and was selected Honorable Mention All-Conference. He played linebacker and running back for the Varsity Football team, earning First Team All-Conference honors. On the Baseball diamond this season, James played catcher and was among the team’s top pitchers, also with a .625 batting average.
With the goal of becoming a plumber, James plans to pursue vocational training.
Ryleigh Zinn
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Track, Volleyball
Ryleigh played Varsity Basketball all four years, was leading scorer, and led the team to its first District Championship in 26 years. She also led the GHS Volleyball team to a District Championship. Along with this, she was an outstanding student with a 3.74 GPA. A member of National Honor Society, she also served on the Student Council.
With a scholarship to play Basketball at Lake Superior State University, Ryleigh will major in Biology.
GENESEE CHRISTIAN
Tyler Chapman
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Soccer
Tyler was a solid, two-sport athlete during his high school career. Playing four seasons of Varsity Soccer, he was named Captain of the team for his senior season. Tyler controlled the game on the field for the Soldiers, securing the center mid-position his senior year and being a huge team motivator. He was a key factor on the court as well, playing four seasons of Varsity Basketball. Tyler was Captain of the team his junior and senior seasons while being awarded Second Team All-State honors as a junior. He averaged 20 points a game in his last two seasons while shooting nearly 40% from the three-point line. He was on the Honor Roll and a member of the National Honor Society.
Tyler will attend Lancaster Bible College in the fall.
Elaina (Lainey) Brewer
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball
Throughout her high school career, Lainey has been a fun, cheerful and consistent competitor in three different varsity sports. She played Varsity Volleyball for four seasons, as Team Captain for both her junior and senior seasons. As a junior, Lainey was awarded GAC Conference Honorable Mention. She also was involved in Varsity Basketball for four seasons, as Team Captain her senior year. She was selected Second Team All-Conference both her junior and senior years. Lainey participated in Varsity Soccer for three seasons, being named Team Captain for her junior and senior seasons and winning an All-District award as a junior. She was also on the Honor Roll and a member of the High School Choir.
In the fall, Lainey will attend Pensacola Christian College to study Nursing.
GOODRICH
Brady Benson
Class of 2023
Sports: Football, Wrestling
As a Goodrich High School student, Brady was a very successful, dual-sport Varsity letterman in both Football and Wrestling. His accomplishments on the football field include earning First Team All-League honors, (Right Guard), Team State Runner-up and Academic All State honors. Not only was Brady a decorated football player, he also excelled on the Wrestling mat being named to the All-State Team, Team MVP and a Team State Runner-up three years in a row. He excelled in the classroom while taking numerous AP courses and volunteering in programs such as Peer to Peer.
In the fall, Brady plans to attend Michigan State University to continue his Wrestling career while pursuing a degree to become a Registered Dietitian.
Brooklyn Wyczalek
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Softball
While at Goodrich High School, Brooklyn was a dual-sport athlete. As a starter this year, she helped her Basketball team reach the MHSAA Semifinals. In Softball, her accolades include First Team All-State (Utility), All-Region (Utility), All-District (Utility) and All-League (Infield). Not only was Brooklyn a force on the Softball diamond, but she was a five-time Flint Metro League Scholar Athlete. She takes particular pride in her perfect attendance since fifth grade!
In the fall, Brooklyn will attend Oakland University where she will continue her Softball career while majoring in Criminal Justice.
GRAND BLANC
RJ Taylor
Class of 2023
Sport: Basketball
RJ Taylor is the son of Bob and Kristen Taylor and brother of Ellie and Maizie Taylor. In addition to his remarkable exploits on the Basketball court, he has excelled in the classroom with an average GPA of 3.8. “RJ is a great citizen, a great student and a great athlete,” says Grand Blanc Athletic Director Jerrod Dohm. “In short, he is everything we could want a Grand Blanc Bobcat to be.”
In leading the Bobcats to Breslin three straight years, RJ put together the most impressive Basketball career in Grand Blanc history. He is a State Champion, State of Michigan Player of the Year, a multiple-time First Team All-State selection, Saginaw Valley League Player of the Year, a school record-holder in numerous categories (including career points and assists), and an MHSAA record holder for most three-pointers in a State Championship game (7).
His real excellence lies beyond the numbers, though. A consummate leader, his maturity, poise and leadership on the court throughout his four years at GBHS were extraordinary. Coach Tory Jackson adds: “As our starting point guard for all four seasons, he was essentially an extra coach, on the court and off. And what really makes him special is the way he made every other player on the team better.”
Involved with activities such as GBTV and youth camps and outreach, RJ is also a great role model. He makes sure to give back, spending time helping youth with their basketball skills, and often taking pictures with kids after games and signing autographs.
RJ will attend the University of Northern Iowa on a Basketball scholarship.
Kate Brody
Class of 2023
Sport: Golf
The daughter of Doug and Jenn Brody, Kate played Varsity Golf all four years for GBHS and was All Academic in the Saginaw Valley League each year. This year, she received the prestigious MIGCA All-Academic Award. With a cumulative GPA of 4.03, she took AP and Honors classes while being a member of the National Honor Society. Not only did Kate excel in the classroom, but she is also one of the most honored golfers in the school’s history. She set many school records highlighted by her 10 under par 62 recorded at the 2022 SVL pre-season tournament at The Fortress. Kate was the SVL Individual Champion and MVP all four years, a 2-time Division 1 Regional and State Champion. Kate captured the Individual State Championship as a sophomore and senior. Additionally, she was voted to the Michigan MIGCA Super Team each of her four years. Kate also golfed at the State and National Amateur levels, qualifying and competing for the national Drive, Chip & Putt contest at Augusta National Golf Course. “Kate is a proven leader who has a passion to succeed,” says her Coach, Glen Bauer. “She acts with a sense of humility and humor that will serve her well throughout her life.”
Kate wrapped up her illustrious high school athletic career by being unanimously selected Miss Golf, awarded to the best female golfer throughout the entire state. She has accepted a scholarship at the University of Wisconsin where she will continue her golf career while pursuing a Business degree.
HAMADY
Delano Townsend
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Football, Track
A remarkable student-athlete , Delano consistently demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication and sportsmanship in multiple sports, namely Basketball and Football. As an offensive lineman, Delano’s impact on the field cannot be overstated, helping them secure the Genesee Area Conference Championship with an undefeated 5-0 record and an overall record of 10-2. With an impressive tally of 78 tackles, including 19 for a loss and 10 sacks, Delano’s defensive prowess was a constant challenge for opponents throughout the season. He has actively participated in extracurricular activities, such as coaching the Girls Powder Puff team, showcasing his leadership skills and dedication.
Delano plans to attend the University of Alabama-Birmingham where he will continue his Football journey on scholarship.
Symone Walker
Class of 2023
Sports: Bowling, Cheerleading, Track, Volleyball
Symone is recognized as a Top Athlete due to her exceptional athletic prowess, well-rounded skill set and standout contributions both on and off the field and court. Accomplished in multiple sports, she demonstrated unparalleled versatility and a commitment to excellence. A natural leader, she was chosen Team Captain in two sports, highlighting her ability to motivate and inspire her teammates, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and unity. She was a member of the National Honor Society, exemplifying her commitment to academic excellence. Additionally, Symone exhibited civic responsibility and community engagement by volunteering her time for various middle school events, helping to clean the lunchroom and working at the election polls. Symone’s exceptional achievements, coupled with her commitment to academic pursuits and community service, make her a role model for aspiring athletes.
Symone plans to pursue a Nursing degree at Bethune Cookman University in Florida.
INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY OF FLINT
Malcolm Wilson-Bronson
Class of 2023
Sports: Varsity Basketball, Varsity Track
Malcolm was very thankful to be chosen for this honor. His exciting athletic career included four years of Basketball and one year of Track. He thanked his IAF teammates and coaches for pushing him to be the best athlete he could be during the final sports seasons.
A member of the National Honor Society for two years, Malcolm plans to work harder during the next leg of his educational journey. He plans to attend a four-year university to pursue basketball and academics, and to make his family and friends proud when they see him on TV!
Kamari Williams
Class of 2026
Sports: Basketball, Track, Volleyball
Kamari has competed in Volleyball since 6th grade, Basketball and Track since 8th grade. Her hard work has earned her a Varsity letter in all three sports, with Honorable Mention for Basketball. She hopes to have the opportunity to compete as an athlete at the college level, as she continues to work hard at being a great sportswoman.
When her high school athletics journey ends, her goal is to earn a college scholarship as a student-athlete.
KEARSLEY
Dominik DiGenova
Class of 2023
Sports: Baseball, Varsity Football, Soccer, Wrestling
Dominik is a remarkably talented athlete. He was Captain of both the Football and Wrestling teams, and a four-year Varsity letterman for Wrestling, two-year Varsity letterman for Baseball and one-year recipient for Soccer. He was First Team All-Conference in Football his senior year and All State in Wrestling last year as a junior.
Along with his many athletic accomplishments, Dominik was an exemplary student-athlete maintaining an impressive 3.13 GPA throughout his high school years. Donating countless hours to Kearsley community youth, he can often be found volunteering with youth sports camps of all sorts, giving of his time to inspire elementary students while working on the sports they love. Unsurprisingly, his peers named him Homecoming King this year.
Dominik will attend Adrian College where he will be a member of the Wrestling team and major in Business.
Katelyn Jacot
Class of 2023
Sports: Varsity Golf, Powerlifting
A Team Captain and four-year varsity letter-winner for Golf, Katelyn also earned multiple Varsity letters in Powerlifting. She earned Second Team All-Conference in Golf this year and was given the prestigious honor of hitting the ceremonial first tee shot to kick off the Ally Challenge Tournament! Katelyn was also a multi-year State Qualifier in Powerlifting.
Along with her impressive athletic accomplishments, Katelyn earned an outstanding 3.91 GPA. While working as the President for National Honor Society, she led a very successful blood drive for the Red Cross. She was also often seen volunteering to tutor students at local elementary schools and working at the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan. Katelyn has given well over 100 hours of her time in service to her community.
Katelyn plans to attend Alma College where she will be a member of the Golf team.
LAKE FENTON
Jack Conley
Class of 2023
Sports: Football, Lacrosse, Wrestling
During his high school career, Jack received numerous honors for athletic achievements in three sports. They include: Wrestling – Three-time All State; State Runner-up as a sophomore; 7th place junior year and State Runner-up in his senior season. As a freshman, he was a Regional Qualifier and League Champion; League Runner-up as a sophomore, junior and senior. Jack was chosen Team MVP in 10th and 11th grade. With over 150 career wins, he was also a four-year Wrestling Team Captain. In Football, he was a three-year starter on offense and defense; three-time All-League offense, 11th grade First Team All-League on offense and defense. In his senior season, he received All-Region honors, as well as Detroit Free Press Dream Team Second Team. As midfielder on the Lacrosse team, Jack received First Team All League honors in his junior season. Outside of school, he helps run youth football and wrestling camps.
Jack will attend Michigan State University where he will wrestle and is undecided on a study major.
Cola Sisk
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Volleyball
As a student-athlete, Cola received many honors for her performance on the Basketball and Volleyball courts. Volleyball: All Conference Honorable Mention freshman and sophomore years; First Team Unanimous selection junior year; All Region junior season. She was Team Captain in her sophomore, junior and senior seasons and also reached 1,000 career kills this season. Basketball: All Conference Honorable Mention sophomore year; First Team selection junior year, as well as Team Captain; Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan All-State Honorable Mention junior year and Honorable Mention senior year. She was also a member of the Blue Devil Marching Band and volunteers at Trinity Lutheran Church.
Cola will attend Saginaw Valley State University on a Volleyball scholarship and is undecided on a study major.
LINDEN
Bryce Eliuk
Class of 2023
Sports: Football, Lacrosse
Bryce has demonstrated what it means to be a true student-athlete, graduating with a 3.95 GPA and receiving First Team All State honors in Football for three years. He is a true school leader, always being kind to all students and wanting what is best for others. On the Football field, he demonstrated true leadership attributes while competing at an extremely high level. He also led the team to a district championship this past year. Bryce was also involved in community service, helping with youth sports clinics including coaching at the youth lacrosse clinic and as a linebackers specialist coach at Air Assault Football Camp.
Bryce plans to attend Eastern Michigan University and play Football while earning his Masters in Economics with a minor in Business.
Hannah Wasilewski
Class of 2023
Sports: Soccer, Track, Volleyball
A multi-sport athlete, Hannah excelled in every sport she played. In the spring, she received All-State honors in both Track and Soccer while also taking seven AP classes. She carries herself in a way that others follow her lead without her even knowing it. Hannah was a huge part of the 4×100 relay team that set a school record and won back-to-back state championships. She was a National Honor Society member, and also completed over 40 hours of community service in addition to community service activities with her teammates.
Hannah plans to attend Michigan State University and join their Club Soccer team. She plans to study to become a Physician’s Assistant, as she has always had a passion for science and helping others.
MT. MORRIS
Blair Wilson
Class of 2023 – Valedictorian
Sports: Tennis, Volleyball
Blair was a four-year Varsity performer on the Mt. Morris Championship Volleyball Team. During her high school career, the team won four MMAC league titles, two District Championships and one Regional Championship. Blair was a very important part of their success: individually, she was recognized as Second Team All-Conference as a freshman, and went on to be honored as a three-time First Team Mid-Michigan Activities Conference All-Conference player by the league’s coaches. She was awarded All-Region honors three times in Volleyball. In Tennis, she was a Second Team All-Conference selection as a sophomore.
Blair will attend University of Michigan-Flint on a Full Academic Scholarship.
POWERS CATHOLIC
Connor Owens
Class of 2023
Sports: Football, Lacrosse, Track, Wrestling
The son of Jay and Lisa Owens, Connor earned a 4.27 GPA, taking every possible advanced and AP class available. He showcased his athletic talents and abilities while earning 12 varsity letters throughout his high school career, as well as being elected Captain of the Varsity Wrestling Team. Connor is a three-time Saginaw Valley League Champion, four-time District Champion, as well as a State Wrestling Champion. He was part of the Powers Regional Championship Football Team and All-State in Track in the 400-meter dash. In addition to athletic achievements, Connor has also been very involved in several clubs and organizations, including DECA, National Honor Society, Baking Club and Rotary Club. He also participated in many service projects which included serving at the North End Soup Kitchen, working with the elderly at Meadowbrook Manor Estates, working the Crim Road Race, and taking photos for competitors at the annual Flint Breast Cancer Race.This fall, Connor will attend the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, Ross School of Business on a Wrestling scholarship.
Alexis Parker
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Track & Field
Alexis is the daughter of Richard and Melissa Parker. She earned honors all four years while studying at Powers Catholic. During her high school career, Alexis has showcased her talents while earning all of her Varsity letters as a freshman. Team Captain in all three sports, she received the honor of being named to Flint’s Dream Team, First Team Tri-County for Basketball and Second Team Tri-County for Cross Country in 2022. This year, she was chosen First Team All Saginaw Valley League in Cross Country and Basketball, as well as All State Honorable Mention for Basketball. She was Second Team SVL for Basketball and Cross Country in 2021. Alexis has been in organizations that include being a trainer for young basketball stars, a Vacation Bible School leader for her local church, and a Crim volunteer. She is headed to Aquinas College where she will play Basketball and run Track as she pursues a degree in Microbiology.
SWARTZ CREEK
Josiah Buford
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Football, Track
A three-sport athlete at Swartz Creek High School, Josiah’s achievements earned him many accolades. They include: All-League Football honors (First Team All-Metro), Genesee County DB of the Year (with 5 touchdowns, 220 receiving yards with 40 yards per reception, 37 tackles, 4 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles, 70 intercepted yards). The team captured two Metro Championships, recorded the first playoff win in school history and most team wins in school history. In addition, Josiah earned Metro League Champion Track & Field honors. Off the field, Josiah carried a 3.0 GPA, participated in Church Group, Into the Creek (ITC) Yearbook, and YouthQuest.
Josiah plans to attend Wayne State University where he will play Football while pursuing a Media Communications degree.
Adrianna Hetherton
Class of 2023
Sports: Basketball, Powerlifting, Track, Volleyball
Adrianna was a four-sport athlete who grew into leadership roles in all sports. In 2022, she was named “Rookie of the Year” in Track, as well as Most Improved. She excelled in field sports and was named Flint Metro Discus League Champ in 2021 and again in 2023. Also, in 2023, she was named Flint Metro Shotput League Champ. Adrianna also excelled in the classroom, holding a 3.9 GPA.
While working in the Air Force, Adrianna plans to earn a Health Sciences degree and then pursue a Doctor of Chiropractic degree.
Photos Courtesy of the Individual Athlete or School Athletic Department.
