As the 2023-2024 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 throughout their high school careers to earn accolades for their accomplishments. We thank them all for their participation.
Research shows that student-athletes often do better academically and that sports participation can provide many benefits for the youth, their families and communities. Several in this group of honorees received scholarships that will allow them to compete at the next 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 highlight these Greater Flint high school sports standouts.
Atherton
Dysen Eaton
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Football, Track & Field
During his years at Atherton, Dysen was a 3-4-sport student-athlete, increasing that participation to five sports as a Senior. He was a consistent player and leader throughout his high school career.
Accolades for his athletic achievements include: All-League Honorable Mention, All-State Linebacker (Football); All-League Honorable Mention (Basketball), All-Conference infielder, All-Conference utility (Baseball), 1st and 2nd Team All-Conference, All-State Honorable Mention (Bowling). He was also involved in the Student Council.
Dysen plans to continue his Baseball career at Adrian College.
Kaylyn Pease
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Basketball, Cheerleading, Softball, Volleyball
A three-sport student-athlete all through high school, Kaylyn was on the Varsity teams all four years. She earned All-League Honorable Mention for Basketball, Softball and Volleyball. In addition, she was involved in Student Council, Student Leadership Services and Genesee Career Institute.
Kaylyn plans to play Volleyball in college and study to be an Athletic Trainer.
Bendle
Elijah Boyd
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Baseball, Basketball, Football
Elijah’s time at BHS earned him much recognition for his caring leadership, including a Leadership Award and Faculty Award. He participated in The Link Program and earned various scholarships for academic achievement.
Chosen Male Athlete of the Year, Elijah was also recognized for his gridiron performance with 1st Team Defense Back honors, as well as 2nd Team All-League selection for Basketball. He also shared his talent and leadership abilities as a Jr. NBA Coach.
Elijah plans to continue his education to become a certified HVAC Technician.
Emma Mose
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Basketball, Volleyball
During her high school career, Emma was considered a great leader and mentor to others, receiving the All Around Student Award, and the Class & School Service Award. A hardworking student-athlete, she earned various academic scholarships and the Top Ten Award, finishing 4th in the class. She was a member of the National Honor Society and participated in The Link Program and Student Council.
Also excelling in athletics at BHS, Emma was honored with 1st Team All-League selection for Volleyball and 2nd Team All-League for Basketball. She will attend the University of Michigan-Flint to pursue a degree in Nursing.
Bentley
Cameron Goodman
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Baseball, Bowling
During his high school career, Cameron was a tremendous student-athlete and person, a great asset to Bentley High School and the community. He finished with a 3.739 GPA and ranked 5th in his class. A great leader on and off the field, Cameron was a 2024 GAC Scholar Athlete Award winner. Throughout high school, he was a member of the Bowling team and played a very instrumental role on the 2024 state qualifying team. Cameron played Varsity Baseball as a pitcher, first baseman and outfielder. Outside of sports, he was also involved in FIRST Robotics.
At this writing, Cameron was deciding on the college where he will pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Alexandria Sutherby
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Bowling, Cheerleading, Powerlifting, Softball, Track & Field
A great student-athlete, Alexandria represented Bentley at a very high level. Always willing and eager to be involved and try new activities, she is a very outgoing person which helped her to be a tremendous leader in the school and the community. Alexandria was a 2024 GAC Scholar Athlete Award winner, finishing with a 4.002 GPA and ranked 2nd in her class. She was a member of the Varsity Bowling, Powerlifting and Varsity Softball teams, Cheerleading Squad, and Varsity Track team during her time at Bentley. In addition, Alexandria was National Honor Society President and a Student Council Representative.
With her work ethic and character, Alexandria will no doubt be successful in everything she does in the future. She will attend Eastern Michigan University to pursue a degree in Social Work.
Carman-Ainsworth
Marcell Warren
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Basketball, Football, Track & Field
Possessing a tremendous work ethic and leadership qualities, Marcell excelled both academically and athletically at Carman-Ainsworth. He wrapped up his high school career with a 2.493 GPA. As a third-year Varsity Football player, he received 2nd Team Saginaw Valley League honors and co-MVP honors in his Senior year, as well as 2nd Team SVL honors as a running back as a Junior. Off the field, Marcell was involved in various school leadership groups such as a LINK Leader, which includes participating in Freshman Orientation, helping to get Freshman class members excited and develop relationships that will contribute to their success. Marcell was also a member of the African American Student Association. He will play Football at Adrian College and major in Sports Broadcasting.
Naima Chin-Kee-Fatt
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Cheer, Track & Field
During her time at Carman-Ainsworth, Naima excelled athletically and academically while also being a leader to her peers. She carried a 3.681 GPA and remained on the Honor Roll during her Freshman through Senior years. As a Sophomore, she earned an Academic Varsity letter and her Academic Medallion as a Junior. She also received an invite from the National Honor Society and was inducted as a Sophomore and Junior.
Naima also held various positions of leadership, becoming part of the NHS Executive Board as a Junior representative, and as a Senior was named president. She played a part in Student Council in her Sophomore through Senior years. As a Junior, she was named class secretary and obtained the leadership role of vice president as a Senior. From 2021-2024, Naima was a member of the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) Club and president during her Sophomore and Junior years, while also being an active member of the African American Students Association.
Athletically, Naima strived as a leader for the Varsity Track & Field and Varsity Competitive and Sideline Cheer teams. Her Sophomore accolades include the Most Improved Player of the Year award and as a Junior, was named MVP while also being named the Saginaw Valley League Champion in the 100m hurdles and receiving her four-year Varsity Competitive Cheerleading plaque.
Naima has spent many weekends volunteering at the Food Bank and has read to children at elementary schools when possible. In the summers, she volunteered at the dance studio where she took lessons, helping with gymnastics classes, teaching kids how to flip/tumble and dance.
When asked what she learned from athletics that will help her after high school, Naima responded, “Athletics has taught me a lot about time management and making sure my priorities are in order. I’ve learned proficient leadership skills, focus strategies, endurance mentally and physically, keeping up with commitments and teamwork, as well as goal-setting to make sure I set myself up for success, discipline, pushing through adversity, and being put into uncomfortable situations that test your character and build the person you become.”
Naima plans to attend Eastern Michigan University to study Neuroscience.
Davison
Sawyer Glennie
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Baseball, Basketball, Football, Track & Field
The son of Blaise and Barbara Glennie, Sawyer is a fine example of great sportsmanship, leadership and citizenship. During his four years at DHS, he was a multi-sport athlete who represented the Cardinals in a positive and respectful manner in the classroom, as well as on the playing field. Sawyer took on everything he did with a great mindset and positive attitude, always putting his teammates and others first. He worked hard on and off the field, carrying a 3.948 GPA and scoring a 1240 on his SAT, ranking him in the Top 40 in his class. A member of the National Honor Society, Sawyer was a High Honor Roll, All Academic Student-Athlete who proved himself with hard work and dedication.
These are just some of the attributes that made him a major asset to the Davison School District over the last four years.
As a stellar athlete, his accolades include (Football, 4 years): 3 years Varsity QB, 1st Team All-League, 1st Team All-Region, holds the Davison single season passing TD record (34), 2022 & 2023 League Champions, 2023 District Champions; (Basketball, 4 years): 2 years Varsity; (Track & Field, 3 years): 3 years Varsity high-jumper; (Baseball, 2 years): 1 year Varsity pitcher.
Sawyer plans to attend Saginaw Valley State University to major in Accounting.
Paige McArdle
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Cross Country, Track & Field
Throughout her four years at DHS, Paige brought to all of her activities energy, enthusiasm, commitment and a drive to excel like no other, while also carrying a 4.095 GPA ranking her in the Top 20 of her class. A member of the National Honor Society, she was a High Honor Roll, All-Academic and Academic All-State Student-Athlete.
Paige seemed to always be looking for ways to better herself, her teammates and help others, within, as well as outside the community. She built great relationships around the school, excelling as a big part of the Davison Girls XC and T&F teams’ success over the past few years. A four-year Varsity runner, her accolades included (Cross Country): 1st Team All-League, 1st Team Greater Flint, Saginaw Valley League Champions, Greater Flint Team Champions, State Finals Qualifier, D1 Top 25 in the State; and 1st Team All-League in Track & Field.
Young people like Paige do not normally command or demand attention but simply do what is right in class, on the playing field as a student-athlete and in the community, because it is ingrained into her moral values – something of which she and her parents, Greg and Anne McArdle, should be very proud.
Paige will be attending Wayne State University on scholarship.
Fenton
Ja’Hion Bond
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Basketball, Football
Ja’Hion is an outstanding student-athlete and more importantly, an outstanding young man. On the field or basketball court, Ja’Hion was a highlight reel waiting to happen – his explosiveness, quickness and agility separated him from the pack. A 4-year Varsity Football and Basketball player, Ja’Hion tied the FHS school record with three interceptions in one football game and also scored 1,166 points in his Varsity Basketball career. He was a member of the 2020 FHS District Championship Football Team, and the 2020 and 2021 Flint Metro League Championship Teams. He was also a 1st Team All-State Award Winner in 2022 and 2023, as well as a member of the Flint Metro League’s First Team All-League Roster in 2022 and 2023. Ja’Hion was a 1st Team All-League member of the Basketball team in 2022 and 2023, and also a 1st Team All-District Team member in 2022 and 2023. This year, he was voted the team’s MVP and was also a member of the Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan’s All-State 2nd Team. While these accomplishments are impressive, Ja’Hion’s unassuming demeanor, kindness and positivity make him an even more impressive young man.
Outside of sports, his accolades are equally stellar: DAR Good Citizen Award Recipient, Kiwanis Club of Flint Athlete of the Month for November 2023, FHS Academic Letter Recipient, Dual-enrolled IB and AP Classes, National Honor Society, Key Club, Eco Club, and he is dedicated to God.
Ja’Hion will play Basketball at Albion College and plans to major in Business.
Victoria Henson
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Track & Field, Volleyball
As a 4-year member of the Varsity Track team, Victoria qualified for state in 2022 and was a Regional Champion and MHSAA All-State Long Jumper in 2023. She was a Flint Metro League 1st Team All-League Member in 2021-2023 and part of a two-time Flint Metro League Co-Champion Track Team in 2021 and 2022. In the fall of 2023, Tori was also a 1st Team All-League Varsity Volleyball team member as a libero. Her versatility and resilience were undoubtedly instrumental in her ability to persevere through her Track career. A relentless pursuit of excellence in every one of her events showed her dedication and passion for the sport that enabled her to earn MHSAA All-State honors in the long jump in 2023 with an 8th Place finish. Throughout her four years as a Tiger, Tori brought a positive attitude and commitment that inspired so many around her and her commitment to excellence can be seen in all aspects of her life.
Victoria’s achievements include: MHSAA Scholar-Athlete, Academic All-State Honoree, FHS Academic Letter Recipient, 2023 Honor Guard, National Honor Society and FHS Athletic Leadership Council. She has committed to the Saginaw Valley State University Track & Field Team and will pursue a Nursing degree.
Flushing
Braden Slogor
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Basketball, Football
Braden was a tremendous example of a student-athlete, excelling in the classroom and on the playing surfaces. Furthermore, Braden led by example in the ways he treated all students with respect. As a Peer-to Peer Mentor, he extended friendship to students in various social circles – a top-notch leader at Flushing High School. This was further evidenced by his involvement in Rotary Club, Varsity Club, Colt Squad, Student Leadership Organization, National Honor Society, Student Athlete Advisory Council, Leaders in Learning, Upwards Referee, and time he spent volunteering at Flushing Early Childhood Center.
Braden will attend Lansing Community College.
Alyviah Wright
Class of 2024
SPORT: Volleyball
An exceptionally hard worker both in the classroom and on the volleyball court, Alyviah continually set high goals for herself and was willing to put in the work required to be successful. Furthermore, she is passionate about volunteering to make her community better and she holds a special place for volunteering with young children. Alyviah often volunteers in Flushing elementary schools and works with the Youth Volleyball program. In addition, she was involved in National Honor Society, Varsity Club, Trunk or Treat, Readers Are Leaders and also volunteers at Mobile Food Pantry and Andy’s Attic.
Alyviah plans to pursue a career in education at Madonna University.
Genesee
Izzy Yeoman
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Cross Country, Soccer (Boys & Girls), Track & Field
Excelling both in the classroom and on the field, Izzy was an outstanding student-athlete at GHS. She was not only dedicated to her academics as Class of 2024 Valedictorian with a 4.0 GPA, she also broke school records in Cross Country and three different Track events. In addition, Izzy was involved in the Student Council and a member of the National Honor Society.
Izzy was recently awarded the prestigious Philip A. Hart Memorial Scholarship which will cover her full tuition at Lake Superior State University. She plans to study to become an Athletic Trainer.
Genesee Christian
Photos By Carol Snyder
Boston Boike
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Basketball, Soccer
Throughout his career as a GCS Soldier, Boston played Soccer and Basketball and was Captain of the varsity teams as a Senior. He was a two-time member of the District and Regional Championship Basketball teams, with a semi-final appearance during his Sophomore season. He also started all four years as goalie for the Varsity Soccer team. Boston was a two-time All-District Soccer team member and two-time recipient of All-District team and GAC First Team All-Conference honors for Basketball. He was also a member of the National Honor Society.
Boston will play Basketball while attending Boyce College in Louisville, KY.
Photos By Carol Snyder
Alaina Suckley
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Soccer, Volleyball
As an exemplary student-athlete, Alaina was a great leader and calming presence both on and off the court/field. She played Volleyball and Soccer throughout her GCS career and was captain of both teams during her Senior year. In addition, she was a member of the National Honor Society and involved in Yearbook Publication.
Alaina will attend Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, IL.
Goodrich
Photo by Lee Wells Photography
Easton Phipps
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Football, Golf, Wrestling
On the football field, Easton consistently proved his worth for the Martians. He was a two-time 1st-Team All-Conference, All-Flint Area Dream Team, All-Region and All-State honors recipient at the linebacker position. Along with these accomplishments, he was named Flint Area Defensive Player of the Year by MLive.
Off the gridiron, Easton was equally successful. His wrestling journey is a story of perseverance and achievement. From a respectable third-place finish as a Sophomore in the State Finals, he rose to the top of the podium in his Junior year, snatching the first-place title. Even as a Senior, Easton displayed his resilience, clinching an impressive second-place finish.
Outside of sports, Easton dedicates himself to volunteering, mentoring young athletes on fundamental exercise and sports principles, as well as helping out at the annual “Good Times in Goodrich” event. Additionally, he participated in the Peer-to-Peer mentorship program during the school day.
Easton plans to attend Hope College where he will play Football while studying Engineering.
Photo by Amber Henry Photography
Eveyln Edenburn
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Powerlifting, Softball, Track & Field
As a student-athlete, Evelyn proudly represented Goodrich, etching her name in the school record book by setting the Girls Powerlifting record, boasting an impressive total lift of 981 lbs. Additionally, she claimed both the JV and Varsity state records, further solidifying her dominance in the sport. She was Athlete of the Month in December 2022. Furthermore, Evelyn displayed her talents on a national stage, earning 2nd Place in the Powerlifting National Championship in 2022 and securing the coveted title of Varsity National Champion in 2024. She was a 3-year Varsity letterman in Softball and a 4-year Varsity letterman in Powerlifting, serving as JV Captain in 2020-2022 and Varsity Captain as a Senior.
Academically, Evelyn completed two years of Culinary studies at the Genesee Career Institute. She was also involved in the Student Council and Theater Crew. In addition, she was nominated for the 2023 Voices for Children Robert & Vickie Weiss Outstanding Youth Award. Evelyn dedicates her free time to aiding at softball camps, contributing her efforts to The Disability Network, and lending a hand at the Holly Francis Community Friends & Family event.
Evelyn plans to attend Davenport University where she will be a member of their Powerlifting team while studying Business. After graduating, she plans to open a bakery.
Grand Blanc
Bryce O’Mara
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Basketball
During his time at GBHS, Bryce excelled both on and off the Basketball court. Finishing with a 3.8 GPA, his extracurricular activities included GBTV, youth camps and community service work.
As a Freshman, Bryce helped the Bobcats earn their first ever State Boys Basketball title followed by a state runner-up finish the following year. He played at the Breslin Center three consecutive years, and has left his legacy as a four-time district champion and three-time regional champion. He is a Saginaw Valley League 2nd Team honoree and led the team in double-doubles (9), averaging 12 rebounds per game.
Beyond the numbers, Bryce’s true excellence was shown throughout his four years at GBHS with extraordinary leadership, maturity and poise on the court. What really makes him special is the way he made every other player on the team better. Bryce is a great role model for the youth and his peers, dedicated to giving back to his community – such as delivering Christmas baskets to families in need and finding joy in seeing their smiles.
The son of Tim and Rachel O’Mara, Bryce will attend Calvin University in Grand Rapids on academic and basketball scholarships. The GBHS family is proud of his representation of their school and wishes him nothing but success.
Kate DeWitt
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Basketball, Softball
As Kate’s Varsity Softball Coach for four years, Jami Neubecker describes her as consistently demonstrating remarkable dedication, character, natural talent and leadership both on and off the field.
Throughout her GBHS career, Kate maintained an outstanding academic record with a 3.95 GPA and was a member of the National Honor Society for two years. Her hard work and commitment to athletic excellence earned her accolades including Saginaw Valley League 1st Team honors (three years), three years on the All-District team, three years on the All-Region team and three years on the Flint Dream Team. Kate’s exceptional performance earned her a spot on the All-State 1st Team during her Junior year.
In addition to her achievements on the softball field, Kate was a key Varsity Basketball player for three years, receiving SVL Honorable Mention twice. Her leadership skills were further exemplified by her four years as Captain of the Varsity Softball Team.
Kate is also actively involved in the community. Throughout high school, she volunteered for the FISH Food Drive, “March is Reading Month” and Youth Softball clinics, demonstrating her strong commitment to giving back and supporting others.
As Kate prepares to play Softball at Wayne State University, Coach Neubecker feels that her passion, work ethic and leadership skills will make Kate a valuable addition to their team. She extends her congratulations to Kate for her well-deserved inclusion on the 2024 Greater Flint’s Top Athletes list.
IAF | International Academy of Flint
Photos By DeAntio Shakir
Jolonn Monge
Class of 2025
SPORTS: Basketball
Finishing his Junior year at IAF, Jolonn has exhibited a great approach to the term “student-athlete.” Chosen to the 2023-2024 All-Genesee Area Conference Blue Boys First Team, he was named IAF Player of the Year, helping the Phoenix claim their first District 93 Boys Basketball title since 2017. Outside of school, Jolonn is involved with his church.
Jolonn aspires to continue playing basketball in college and become a business owner in the future.
Photos By DeAntio Shakir
Simone Holder
Class of 2026
SPORTS: Cheerleading, Track & Field, Volleyball
Though Simone is only half way through her high school career, the IAF athletics staff considers her a student-athlete who displays great sportsmanship and leadership qualities. She has been named to the All-Genesee Area Conference 2nd Team in Volleyball and International Academy Student/Athlete of the Year. She is a member of the National Honor Society and has also been involved in the Kagle Leadership Initiatives program for future leaders.
Simone plans to continue participating in sports at IAF and attend the University of Michigan after graduation.
Kearsley
Caden Saxton
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Baseball, Cross Country, Soccer
Throughout his KHS career, Caden displayed a great commitment to both scholastic and athletic achievement. A 1st Team All-Flint Metro Conference Scholar, he ranked first in his class academically when considering GPA and SAT scores.
While Caden’s academic achievements are outstanding, it is more impressive that he was able to accomplish this while also dedicating time to being a highly successful multi-sport athlete. Caden was a 4-year Varsity Letter winner in both Soccer and Baseball. He earned All-State Soccer honors as a Junior and Senior, as well as being a multiple 1st Team All-Conference selection for Soccer and Baseball. As a Senior, Caden helped lead the Soccer team to a school record 17 wins while establishing new season and career school records for both goals and assists. He finished his Soccer career with 86 goals and 63 assists, ranking 25th in MHSAA history.
Caden plans to attend the University of Michigan and pursue a career as an Actuary.
Ava Boggs
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Bowling, Cross Country, Swim, Track & Field
During her high school career, Ava displayed a great commitment to both scholastic and athletic achievements. She was able to balance being a four-sport Varsity athlete while performing at an extremely high level in the classroom. Finishing with a 4.0+ GPA, Ava was KHS Class of 2024 Salutatorian.
Outside the classroom, Ava qualified to compete in the State Finals for Bowling, Cross Country and Track & Field. She helped lead Kearsley’s Bowling Team to multiple state and conference championships (bowling a 300 game) while also earning All-State honors in Bowling. In addition, she also received Flint Metro League All-Conference awards in Track & Field and Cross Country.
Ava plans to pursue a career in Aviation at Western Michigan University.
Lake Fenton
Nolan Pinion
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Cross Country, Track & Field
Nolan is described as a tremendous student-athlete, a “true Blue Devil” who worked so hard for everything he achieved. Holding school records in both XC and Track, Nolan will go down as the greatest runner in Lake Fenton history to this point. A four-time First Team All-League XC runner, Nolan also won the Genesee County meet as a Senior. He is a 2-time All-State XC runner, finishing 15th overall his Senior year, best in Lake Fenton history. Nolan also holds the school Track & Field record in the 3200M run, which he set his Junior year and broke as a Senior. He also played a huge leadership role on both of those teams as Captain.
More importantly, Nolan was a 6-time Flint Metro League Scholar Athlete and an Academic All-State selection as both a Junior and Senior. A member of the National Honor Society, he finished school with a 4.017 GPA, ranking 11th in the LFHS Class of 2024.
Outside of school, Nolan volunteers at Adopt-A-Pet in Fenton, Forgotten Harvest, and Gleaners Community Food Bank, as well as helping tutor students in chemistry and math.
Nolan will run Cross Country and Track while attending Milwaukee School of Engineering.
Savannah Fellenbaum
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Basketball, Soccer
Savannah was chosen for this honor as a hardworking student-athlete who was dedicated both in the classroom and on her field of play.
A 4-year Varsity athlete in both Basketball and Soccer, Savannah started every game in both sports. She was named All-League all four years in Basketball, and received All-State Honorable Mention by Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan. In Soccer, Savannah was a three-time All-League selection for goalie. A leader on the field and in the classroom, she was a Captain on both teams and helped with Student Council. A member of the National Honor Society, she maintained a 4.119 GPA and ranked 5th in the LFHS Class of 2024.
Outside of school, Savannah helps run Jet League Youth Basketball at Lake Fenton and attends YoungLife Genesee County and The Rock Community Church.
Savannah will study Cybersecurity Management while playing Basketball at Northwood University.
Lakeville Memorial
Jon Huggler
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Cross Country, Football, Golf, Track & Field, Wrestling
During his time at LakeVille, Jon challenged himself to participate (and be successful) in multiple sports while maintaining high grades in his academic courses. A multiple time All-State wrestler, he holds the school record for career pins. He was also a member of the National Honor Society.
Jon will compete on the wrestling team while attending Cornerstone University where he will study to become a Secondary School Teacher (math or social studies). He also plans to give back to the community as a middle/high school wrestling coach.
Larissa Gibson
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Basketball, Softball, Volleyball
A leader both in and out of athletics, Larissa encouraged and lifted up her teammates in the classroom and on the court. She was a 1,000-point scorer in her 4-year Varsity Basketball career. More than her athletic accomplishments, Larissa was consistently willing to grow and learn from her choices.
Larissa will play Basketball while attending Oakland Community College. At this writing, she had not decided on a focus of study, but will certainly excel in all that she undertakes.
Linden
Michael Bush
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Baseball, Football, Wrestling
A 3-sport Varsity student athlete, Michael was a natural leader on and off the field. As a 3-year Captain of the Varsity Wrestling team and a Captain of the Varsity Football team for two, he showed true leadership qualities in his work ethic. Leading by example, he encouraged others to be better.
A 3-year Varsity Football starter, to say he never left the field is an understatement! Michael concluded his LHS career as quarterback, leading tackler as a linebacker, and also the kicker. Named All-Conference in all three positions, he was also awarded 1st Team All-Region and All-State Honorable Mention. Michael wrapped up his Wrestling career with an incredible come-from-behind performance at the MHSAA State Finals. After losing his first match in the State meet, he battled back to win five consecutive matches and take 3rd Place overall in the Division 2 – 215 lb. class. He finished his Senior season with a record of 58-10.
Michael will continue playing Football at Ferris State University where he plans to study Construction Management or Engineering.
Lauren Goodman
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Softball, Track & Field, Volleyball
Lauren was a multi-sport athlete who excelled in every sport she played. In 2022-2023, she received All-State honors in Track while maintaining a 4.17 GPA and taking many AP classes. Leading by example, she carried herself in a way that others looked to her for guidance.
On the track, Lauren was a huge part of the 4×100 Relay team that set a school record and won back-to-back state championships in ‘21 and ‘22. She also holds the school record in the 200-meter and was All-State in the 4×200 (‘22, ‘23) and All-State in 200-meter in 2021. She was a member of the National Honor Society, Student Council, God’s Love Foundation and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Lauren also completed many hours of community service in addition to community activities with her teammates.
Having earned an athletic scholarship, Lauren plans to attend Oakland University where she will run Track. She plans to study Nursing, as she has that unique quality in both the classroom and on the field – always putting others first.
Montrose
Zack O’Neal
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Basketball, Football, Golf
Zack is an absolute leader. Quiet, confident and poised, he was able to read his teammates. His natural athletic ability showed in the ease with which he performed; a great example of confidence under pressure. Chosen as team Captain by multiple coaches, he earned many post-season awards in the Conference and through the MHSAA. Zack has also been a great mentor for youth athletes in Montrose, spending time speaking with players and coaches. He also volunteered for the Montrose Blueberry Festival and other school events.
Throughout his high school career, Zack had to endure some injuries, some of which sidelined him for a period of time. During those tough moments, he transformed into a player-coach, helping to guide and instruct his teammates. Zack played the role perfectly, not trying to do more than he was capable of. He encouraged his teammates, supported development and preparation, and set a high bar for himself and his fellow Rams.
Zack will join the workforce with his father’s construction company.
Nadiyah Walsh
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball
Throughout her high school career, Nadiyah was a consistent competitor, leader and advocate for athletic participation. Both in and out of school, she was devoted to service work, volunteering at many youth events, the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan, Montrose Blueberry Festival and with the National Honor Society. She was also involved with the Prom Committee and a Youth Sports volunteer.
Nadiyah was a multi-sport All-Conference and All-District athlete, leading her teammates as Captain in all three sports she participated in. Her fiery attitude and will to excel propelled her to train and prepare to the best of her abilities. Throughout the year, her coaches grew to depend on her leadership with open gyms, training sessions and pre-game preparation. One of her greatest attributes is her will to win, but with humility. She understands how to win with class and lose with dignity.
While studying at St. Clair Community College, Nadiyah will continue to play Basketball.
Powers Catholic
Grant Garman
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Baseball, Basketball
An outstanding leader in school as well as a great person, Grant was considered an exemplary student-athlete during his career as a PCHS Charger.
Grant was Captain of the Basketball team during the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 seasons. Excelling on the Baseball diamond, he was named All-Saginaw Valley League (3 years) Honorable All-State as a Freshman and 1st Team All-State as a Sophomore and Junior. His other athletic accolades include All-State Dream Team, MLive Player of the Year and CWB Pitcher of the Year. He also volunteered time as a Teacher’s Assistant.
Grant will play Baseball for Oakland University on an athletic scholarship.
Grace Cameron
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Basketball, Soccer
As a student-athlete at PCHS, Grace exhibited not only outstanding leadership abilities in sports but was known as a great person, as well.
As a Basketball player, she was Team Captain and received accolades including All-Saginaw Valley League Honorable Mention in the 2023-2024 season. As a Soccer standout, Grace received multiple All-State Honors, was Team MVP for three consecutive seasons, a Michigan Girls Soccer Gatorade Player of the Year Nominee, and MLive Athlete of the Week for April 22-27, 2024. In addition, she was a Mentor Group Leader, member of the Baking Club and a Teacher Assistant.
Grace will play Soccer while attending Central Michigan University.
Swartz Creek
Brett Hetzner
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Football, Powerlifting, Track & Field
Captain of the Varsity Football team and 2-year starter, Brett was also a 3-year participant in Powerlifting, 4-year Track & Field competitor and MHSAA Scholar-Athlete Award winner.
Brett plans to attend Grand Valley State University to pursue a degree in Engineering with hopes of having the opportunity to design sports equipment or sports injury recovery equipment. He is also looking to join GVSU’s Club Track & Field Team and be successful enough to earn a spot on the Active Track & Field Team.
Josephine Lanave
Class of 2024
SPORTS: Swim, Tennis
Josie is the true representation of what a stellar student-athlete is, in and out of the pool. A goal-setting athlete for six years, she worked extremely hard and skyrocketed the Girls Swim Team to success. When she was in 6th grade, she told the coaches that she would one day be on the record board. This mentality pushed her through hard practices and tough competition. Josie now holds three records in the 200 Free Relay, 200 Medley Relay and 400 Free Relay.
A 4-year Varsity Tennis and Swim athlete, Josie maintained a 4.0 GPA. She was a leader for the Girls Tennis program over the last couple of years. She played 1 Singles for the last three years, which means she played against the best competitors day in and day out. She was voted a Team Captain as a Senior and also found success in swimming, setting a school record with her Relay Team. Josie was hardworking, competitive, very disciplined in her approach and supportive of her fellow Dragons. This year, she finished 7-3 and was 7-1 in the Flint Metro League Conference. In addition, she was a member of the National Honor Society and was employed during school.
Josie plans to major in Social Work at Michigan State University, pursuing Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees and interning at the hospital near campus. She will continue working at a hospital while finishing her studies, eventually becoming a Licensed Therapist.
