Kaylee Davis, Zarah Annen, Molly Guthrie, and Taraji Smoots are the Student Athletes of the Month for September.
Middle School Volleyball – Kaylee Davis
Kaylee has made tremendous improvements in volleyball this season, but her growth goes far beyond what she does on the court. She is becoming a strong and confident leader who is not afraid to speak up, communicate with her teammates, and share her thoughts about their performance and what the team can improve on. These are signs of true leadership, and at the middle school level, Kaylee’s willingness to step up and have those conversations is incredibly impressive. Kaylee also brings that same dedication to academics. She holds herself to high standards and encourages her teammates to stay focused on their schoolwork and keep up with their studies. She understands that being a successful student-athlete means putting effort into both areas. Most importantly, Kaylee is opening up, becoming more confident, and finding her voice. Her leadership, communication, academic commitment, and willingness to support those around her are helping make her an important part of the MSD volleyball family. Keep growing, Kaylee!
Middle School Cross Country – Zarah Annen
Zarah is being recognized for her incredible commitment, athletic versatility, and dedication to MSD Athletics! Balancing both middle school volleyball and cross country, Zarah has shown that she is willing to put in the work and contribute to multiple teams. At MSD’s historic first-ever cross country meet, the 58th Annual Holly-Duane Raffin Festival of Races on September 19, Zarah showed just how much potential she has. Competing in the 2-mile race, she posted an impressive time of 21:16.7, finishing just shy of the top 100 runners. For a middle school athlete, Zarah is already showing tremendous promise. Her willingness to compete, learn, and challenge herself across multiple sports is helping her establish herself as a bright young star for the MSD Cross Country program. We are excited to watch Zarah continue to grow and develop as an athlete. Her hard work and dedication are just the beginning! Keep pushing, Zarah!
Varsity Volleyball - Molly Guthrie
Molly has stood out throughout the month not only because of her performance on the court, but because of the leadership, energy, and commitment she brings to the entire team. Molly consistently comes to practice ready to work and gives her best effort every day. Her dedication and consistency have made her someone her teammates can depend on. She works hard to keep the team connected, encourages her teammates, and helps maintain a positive attitude even when things become challenging. Her performance speaks for itself. Molly currently leads the team in all statistical categories, demonstrating just how much of an impact she is making every time she steps onto the court. However, her contributions go far beyond the numbers. She plays with strong sportsmanship, respect for her opponents, and a genuine desire to see her entire team succeed. Molly, we are incredibly proud of everything you are bringing to the MSD volleyball program this season. Keep it up!
Varsity Cross Country – Taraji Smoots
Taraji has set a powerful tone for the season with his dedication, determination, and commitment to the MSD Cross Country program. He dominated the two-week MSD Early Sports Camp and maintained perfect attendance at every practice, showing from the very beginning that he was ready to put in the work. That commitment paid off at the 58th Annual Holly-Duane Raffin Festival of Races on September 19, where Taraji made history as part of MSD’s first-ever cross country meet. He completed the 5K with an impressive time of 26:28.2. Currently ranked 33rd nationally among deaf school cross country runners, Taraji continues to improve and lower his times in practice. His work ethic and determination are helping push the MSD varsity program to new heights. We are incredibly proud of Taraji and excited to see what the rest of the season holds for him! His dedication is a great example of what can happen when you commit to putting in the work. Keep it up!