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 from Allatoona and North Cobb. Xavier Rucker is a running back for the Buccaneers, and Rileigh Queen plays softball for the Warriors.
Xavier Rucker, Football, Allatoona
In a recent game against Holy Innocents, Xavier carried the ball 21 times for 247 yards and three touchdowns. He helped secure a 30-21 homecoming victory for the Bucs. He has over 500 yards so far this season, and it looks like he is just getting started. Xavier's been playing football since elementary school. He is a good student and always looking to improve on and off the field.
"He is the heart and soul of our team," said Allatoona coach Brad Smith. "He is one of the most competitive young men I have ever been around and pushes everyone around him to increase their play. He has an exceptional work ethic and is one of the most talented players I have had the pleasure of coaching."
"Xavier is passionate in all that he does. He wants to excel and win every time he is on the field. He has really grown and matured since he joined us as a freshman. Every time I see him in the halls, he is happy and always takes time to have a conversation. We do talk about football, but he often talks about his classes with me and what he needs to improve on moving forward," said Allatoona Athletic Director Chris Murray proudly.
Rileigh Queen, Softball, North Cobb
The Warrior softball team is on a mission this season. They are 18-1 and ranked 3rd in the 6A classification, 15th overall in the state, and 38th nationally. Rileigh's laser focus on first base and her productivity on offense is a huge contributing factor to North Cobb's success on the diamond. She leads the team in batting average, hits, RBIs, and home runs. She is also the quarterback for the Warrior Flag Football team. Rileigh is a straight-A student and leads by example with her words, actions, and positive attitude.
"Rileigh is 100% North Cobb! She is always willing to do anything to help the team," said her smiling coach, Michael Turchan. Her Dad became head football coach in 2006, the same year she was born, so she has not known anything other than North Cobb and truly bleeds Orange. She is a leader with her work ethic and how she treats her teammates, coaches, and really everyone in the school. She is one of the best we have ever had to walk through the doors of North Cobb,"
"She is a great leader in our building and on our fields. She’s a four-year letterman in softball and flag football. She is an outstanding student-athlete, and we are very thankful to have her here. She will be truly missed when she graduates," concluded AD Matt Williams about his school's Athlete of the Week.
Well done, Xavier and Rileigh! Your example and hard work inspire your teammates and classmates to greater things. Excellent job supporting these high-performing student-athletes, Allatoona and North Cobb!
