During winterbreak, the Kent Reporter wanted to recognize two schools with Athletes of the Week as part of the partnership with the Kent School District.
The two schools are Kentridge and Kentlake.
Kentridge
Jaxon Love, Junior ,Wrestling
What do you value in your sport or about your team? I value the dedication it takes for wrestling. It’s not just a sport that you can join and mess around. It’s a sport that you need to put 100% in.
What have you learned from your sport that you can take with you throughout your life/future? Having mental toughness, everything can be hard but you gotta find away to push through and give it everything you got.
What do you do when you aren’t motivated and what helps you stay motivated? I think about losing in front of my teammates, I want my team to believe in me and that hard work gets you somewhere.
Do you have a favorite pre-game meal? No, but I am a big fan of Pedialyte!
What advice would you give to a teammate that is struggling? I would tell them that it gets easier, but only if you put in the work, there are no shortcuts.
From the sideline: He rose to the top earning a first-place medal at the Auburn Bob Jones Memorial Invitational and finished strong with a second-place finish at Puyallup High School’s Wilfong Classic. Jaxon not only does a tremendous job on the mat (taking 8th in the 2023-24 State Championship), he also demonstrates remarkable leadership in the wrestling room mentoring teammates. As one of our team captains for the 2024-25 season, his positive attitude and dedication to the sport and his team are invaluable. Excited to see his progression and success over the course of the next few months.
Miley Lam,Freshman,Basketball
What do you value in your sport or about your team? I value how we work together and support one another, whether we win or lose. Everyone brings something unique to the team.
What have you learned from your sport that you can take with you throughout your life/future? I’ve learned that you have to keep pushing through challenges and stay focused even when things aren’t going the way you want it to.
What do you do when you aren’t motivated and what helps you stay motivated? I remind myself what my goals are and i use to as fuel to keep myself on track.
Do you have a favorite pre-game meal? Chick-Fil-A
What advice would you give to a teammate that is struggling? Everyone goes through tough moments, but they can get through it with perseverance and the support of their team.
From the sideline: Even though Miley is one of my youngest kids she consistently works hard and handle the pressure of being a varsity athlete with poise and confidence. She does a wonderful job of listening to her teammates but also sees the bigger picture on where the program is headed. On the court she is leading my team in points/game and assists/game. She has a high basketball IQ and consistently makes her teammates better.
Kentlake
Jordyn Keith, Senior, Basketball
What do you value in your sport or about your team? I value my teammates and the hard work that they put in.
What have you learned from your sport that you can take with you throughout your life/future? Good leadership roles, friendships, working with others.
What do you do when you aren’t motivated and what helps you stay motivated? I remember that I am lucky that I have the spot I have and I should always work my hardest. If I show up, I might as well make the most of it.
Do you have a favorite pre-game meal? Redbull
What advice would you give to a teammate that is struggling? If you are struggling, you will get over it and past it. Always keep working your hardest and the work will show!!
From the sideline: Jordyn Keith has established herself as a standout player in the Kentlake girls’ basketball program, earning recognition as a Senior and a 2nd Team NPSL 3A selection for the 2023-24 season. Jordyn’s continued improvement each season showcases her commitment to the game and her desire to elevate her performance. Additionally, her excellent leadership skills have made her a role model for her teammates, further solidifying her legacy within the Falcon program. As she wraps up her high school career, Jordyn Keith leaves a lasting impact on Kentlake basketball, inspiring future generations of players.
Finnegan Linnane, Junior, Wrestling
What do you value in your sport or about your team? I value my team’s determination, hard work, and the family feel.
What have you learned from your sport that you can take with you throughout your life/future? I can conquer anything in life through hard work and determination.
What do you do when you aren’t motivated and what helps you stay motivated? I talk with my coaches, they always know how to help.
Do you have a favorite pre-game meal? My coach’s wife makes the best egg bites and Nutella sandwiches.
What advice would you give to a teammate that is struggling? Trust your training. We work hard for a reason.
From the sideline: This student athlete shows leadership and hard work which promotes growth and a vision for our program.
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