Hoya Runner and Raider QB Win First AOW Awards for 2024-25
![AOW082324](https://media.cobbk12.org/media/WWWCobb/pgg/5/082324cvr.jpg)
Cobb Schools’ Athlete of the Week (AOW) program is a weekly recognition of male and female student-athletes performing at high levels in their sport, classroom, and school communities. The program is made possible by support from BSN Sports.
This week’s winners are a freshman cross-country runner from Harrison and a senior quarterback from Walton.
Paige Comstock, Cross Country, Harrison
Winning a cross-country race is challenging, especially when you are a freshman competing against 385 other runners. But Paige did exactly that in her first high school cross-country race at the 9th Annual Hoya 2 Mile Invitational at Allatoona Creek Park. Not only did she win, but she beat second place by 10 seconds and broke the meet record with a time of 11:10.65!
"We lost some girls last year, and Paige instantly made an impact on our team," said Hoya Head Coach Jason Scott. "She is a bright smile when things get tough. She won six state championships in Middle School and was also a high-level Cheerleader and Tumbler."
Paige is also a star in the classroom and was a straight-A student in middle school. In addition, she participated in the Anti-Bully Club and FCA. This girl will be one to watch for the next four years. Great job, Paige!
Kaeden Gilstrap, Football, Walton
Committed to Wofford to play football and baseball, Kaeden started his senior football season with a win over Brookwood in the Mercedes Benz Stadium! He completed 8 of 19 passes for 142 yards and two touchdowns. He also had nine carries for 78 yards. His calm and experienced leadership through adversity gave his Raider teammates what they needed to begin the 2024 season with a big win over a tough opponent. Kaeden was selected as the Corky Kell game MVP.
"Kaeden is an outstanding young man who does things the right way! " said his coach, Daniel Brunner. "He is a starter in three major sports at a school that wins the Directors Cup on a regular basis. This is an amazing feat and shows how dedicated he is to academics and athletics. He has unbelievable time management skills and the drive to succeed. He is a great leader and culture warrior for our program!"
"Kaeden is a selfless young man who is a great leader and represents Walton well in all ways," agreed Athletic Director Chris Williams. "We're proud to call Kaeden a Walton Raider!"
Well done, Paige and Kaeden! You are both excellent examples of what it takes to be a high-achieving student-athlete in Cobb Schools. Great job also, Harrison and Walton! Thanks for supporting our student-athletes so well.