Olivia West is a senior at Sam Barlow High School. She is a captain of the varsity women’s soccer team and a leader on and off the field. Olivia was nominated for being a hard worker and an excellent leader in her class. She always puts in the effort and shows what a great student she is. Many look up to her and follow her example, as she is the perfect balance between academics and athletics.
West has been a member of the varsity women’s soccer team for all four years of her high school. Many of her favorite memories have come from spending her years on the field. Creating bonds with teammates and stepping onto that field every day has been a blessing in her life. “Soccer has changed my life by giving me a community and lifelong friends.” Soccer is so much more than just a sport to her; it’s a family, and they are always there for her.
Although soccer is a massive part of her life, West has good grades to reflect how well-balanced she is. “Balancing school and soccer is a little challenging, but school always comes first. For younger students, I would say to get your work done in class, prioritize school, and put it before games or practices,” commented West. Students, especially underclassmen, need to understand that schoolwork must come before sports, as it’s the only way to be a balanced student-athlete. Being one can be challenging, as it requires staying up late after a practice or game just to get that assignment done that’s due at 11:59.
West was nominated for being a hard worker and always taking charge in her marketing class, leading group projects, and sharing her ideas to help contribute to the task at hand.
West shows leadership beyond her marketing class. As captain of the Varsity soccer team, she has learned a lot about what it takes to be a leader, and she is constantly learning how to be a great example. “I haven’t always known I was a leader, but I discovered I was through my own experiences. I always look for the best in people and try to be uplifting even through frustrating times,” states West. Being a leader doesn’t mean to boss people around, but to uplift and encourage others. Showing the way around and guiding underclassmen to be the new examples in the future. Being a captain is a significant accomplishment; it shows the team trusts your ideas and judgment, and they respect you.
If West is on or off the field she sets a great example of what it takes to be an organized, committed, and well rounded student-athlete. Success doesn’t just come from a certain genre, it can be shown through leadership, teamwork, and determination.
