During the months of September and October, many students joined fall sports offered at Dwight Morrow High School. This fall, student athletes participated in a variety of sports in the school, such as cross country, football, soccer, tennis, and many more. Athletic Director (and now acting Principal) re-established a Student Athlete of the month program for this school year,

“I feel very honored to be student athlete of the month and I worked hard as an athlete overall. Receiving the award was a relief and just another reminder that you can do anything even when people tell you differently,” junior Nyla Valentine said.

On Friday, Oct. 8, 2021, and in early November student athletes were recognized: senior Anthea Iglesia and junior Edwin Sanchez for September, and junior Nyla Valentine and sophomore Jordan Moorer, for October, They were recognized for their achievements in their respective sports by the “Student Athlete of the Month” award. 

“When I first received the award, I was honestly very shocked because I feel that there are many other athletes at our school who deserve to receive such an award,” Anthea said.

The student athletes were extremely proud to receive such recognition, expressing their utmost gratitude to the school and their coaches.

“I was very thankful to my coach who nominated me in the first place. I am very honored and grateful that my hard work is being acknowledged because it definitely is not easy being a student athlete,” Anthea commented.

Students who perform an outstanding job in their respective sport receive this award as well as an accompanying certificate. Anthea, who is co-captain of the girls’ varsity soccer team, scored 8 goals and had 9 assists in 8 games for the Maroon Raiders. Football player Jordan Moorer scored an important touchdown against Dover providing motivation for the Raiders’ first win.

“I believe someone who is dedicated to achieving both academic and athletic success is what makes them qualified to be student athlete of the month. You do not have to be the best athlete or student, but you must always strive to do your best on and off the field,” Anthea said. “Future student athletes who wish to receive such an award should aim to exemplify good work ethic by always putting forth their greatest effort during practices and games, as well as, taking extra time to study often to do well in class,” she added.

Student athletes share their gratitude toward their coaches as well, who have guided them throughout the season.

“I always want to give a special thanks to my coach, Mr. Boyko. Thank you for always believing in me and pushing me to become successful not only in the sport but as a better person!” Nyla said.

As more students engage in sports at DMHS, Athletic Director Joe Armental hopes to continue this act of recognition for all student athletes and strongly supports their role in the school. 

“Each month we will recognize a student athlete for their accomplishments both on and off the field of play. ​​Over the past 2 years, I think that the student athletes have not been given enough credit for their determination through all of the different adversity that they have faced,” noted Mr. Armental seriously. “From the pandemic, to the flood, to various quarantine situations, they have risen to the occasion and have represented Dwight Morrow Athletics admirably,” Mr. Armental concluded.