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 North Cobb and Pope. Cooper Negron plays linebacker for the Warriors, and Amanda Vlkovic is a defensive specialist for the state-champion Lady Greyhounds.
Cooper Negron, Football, North Cobb
The Warrior football is having a banner year. They won the Region 5-6A Championship and are heading into the postseason undefeated (10-0) with home-field advantage during the first two rounds of state play. Cooper's defensive attack greatly contributed to North Cobb's success this season. He leads the county in tackles with 76 solo, 46 assists, 10 for a loss, and four sacks. When he's not terrorizing opposing offenses, Cooper is getting excellent grades, helping his teammates, or serving in his community.
"He's the epitome of what you look for in a student-athlete," said his coach, Shane Queen. "He sets the standard for North Cobb football. He carries a 4.2 GPA, is a selfless team player, leads the county in tackles, and is an unbelievable teammate. Cooper always helps in the community when our players are asked to give back."
"Cooper is a lifelong Warrior. He has played football since he was six years-old and has played with the Warriors for 12 years. You can always replace players, but it is difficult to replace a young man of Cooper's character and integrity. He is someone that you want your daughter to marry, and that means a lot coming from a girl Dad," Coach Queen said proudly about his Athlete of the Week.
Amanda Vlkovic, Volleyball, Pope
In the state final match against Woodward Academy, Amanda led the Lady Greyhounds in serve receive with a 2.48 (out of a 3-point scale), which is incredible and especially hard to do at LakePoint, where the ball floats in unique ways. Her season average was 2.19. She also added 15 digs, one ace, two assists, and no service errors to propel the Lady Greyhounds to a shutout win and the 5A State Title. Amanda's poise and calm make everyone around her play their best.
"She is our team's steady rock," said Head Community Coach Erica Miller. "Amanda is unassuming, gentle, and well-respected. Her teammates trust her and believe what she says. She models leadership more than talks it. She uses her voice and words only when necessary and, especially in intense moments. She makes those around her better, and the girls look to her when they need someone to encourage them. Her position tends to put her in the background where it's not as glamorous and all about doing the work, but she does it beautifully."
Pope Athletic Director Josh Mathews agreed and shared a touching story about Amanda. When the media asked about what the championship win meant to her, especially with this being her final high school game, Amanda reflected on the deeper significance of the moment.
"She took the mic, and after a pause to gain her composure, Amanda shared that her older sister, Ava, wore that same jersey and number before she did. Seldom in high school sports in our area does family legacy trickle down from one member to the next, but Amanda did not miss the importance and the special connection that she and her sister shared through wearing that #7 Pope volleyball jersey. It was a very special moment that I left an impact with me," AD Mathews said emotionally.
Congratulations, Cooper and Amanda! You are both exceptional examples of what it means to be a student-athlete in Cobb. Congratulations also to North Cobb Football and Pope Volleyball for outstanding seasons and region and state championships. Let's keep those wins coming!
