Women, such a Hailey Deitelbaum and Shannon Burns, have made a great impact in this community and the school system itself. They have shaped the outlook on women that play multiple sports and maintain excellent academic standing.

Both student athletes play three sports: volleyball, basketball, and softball. They work day in and day out to strive at those sports and be great leaders.

“I was taught to be successful in school and sports. My parents always pushed me to work my hardest in the classroom and on the field or court. Balancing both helps ease the stress of the other,” Deitelbaum told The Greyhound News.

“When I balance sports and school I find it easier to be successful in both, there is less stress when I can find a balance between the two,” added Burns.

As school leaders, Deitelbaum and Burns have the added responsibility of motivating other female athletes to do what they do on and off the field and what they do in and out of the classroom.

“I was amazed to watch them grow in the mental aspect of the game. How they handle themselves especially under pressure is something you don’t see in every athlete,” said Coach Kevin Wesche when asked about the women’s growth.

The two girls have the utmost confidence in their belief in their influence on younger classes.

“Being in my senior year, I do feel like I influence some other female athletes in the school to do what I do. I was a captain in volleyball and basketball this year and I noticed there that the younger girls, especially the freshmen, do tend to look up to the seniors for guidance on how to become a better player. The girls often have a lot of respect for the captains and seniors and can recognize that we have learned a lot in the 4 years playing in high school, so they are eager to learn from us. Hopefully I can be a good influence to more players in the upcoming softball season as well,” said Burns.

“As a captain of all 3 teams, I feel like I have influenced at least a few younger athletes. As a leader, I try to help the younger athletes as much as possible. I know it is hard for some younger athletes to adapt to high school sports. So I try as much as possible to help them. I try to model dedication, sportsmanship, and determination on and off the field and courts,” added Deitelbaum.

They show younger athletes just how important it is to have guidance and discipline in their lives. Without that and adaptation there would be no success.

These two women exemplify the correct way to balance school and sports whilst being highly successful in both. At the end of the day, school communities would be lucky to have student-athletes like them.

Keep pursuing your excellence Hailey and Shannon!