Buc Cheerleader and Cardinal Wrestler Recognized with AOW Awards
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 Osborne. Audrey Hilliard cheers for the Bucs, and Henry Benjamin wrestles for the Cardinals.
Audrey Hilliard, Gameday Cheer, Allatoona
The Buccaneer's Competition Cheer team finished 8th at state, and their situational cheers depend on Audrey’s knowledge of football, willingness to listen, and volume of leadership! She has been cheering since elementary school and is part of Allatoona's Varsity Competition, Varsity Game Day, and Varsity Basketball cheerleading teams. Audrey helps and motivates those around her and is a perfect example of what cheerleading can be. She is also viewed as a leader in the classroom and always treats others with kindness and compassion.
"She means the world to us. Audrey is the first to lend a hand, the first to volunteer to help others, and the last to complain in every setting," said Assistant Cheer Coach Michaela Hicks. "She is fully deserving of any and all recognition and accolades. Audrey’s love for others is astounding, and it is an honor to have her in our program!"
"I would echo Coach Hicks' sentiments, and I’d like to add that Audrey is the epitome of a spirit leader. Her presence on the sideline and the Game Day mat is exemplary. Audrey can always be seen giving her all, cheering loudly, having sharp motions, and contributing to her squad in every way possible. She has a positive attitude and is dedicated to her team and to supporting others at Allatoona," said Head Cheer Coach Ann Dau about her Athlete of the Week.
Henry Benjamin, Wrestling, Osborne
A recent graduate of the POPP Protect the Dream program, Henry went undefeated at the Nightmare Before Christmas tournament. He is a natural leader on the team and a returning state qualifier. Henry plays three sports for the Cardinals: Football, Track, and Wrestling. He is quiet and makes his presence known by his actions.
"Henry represents our wrestling program by his grit and determination every time he steps on the mat," said Head Coach Troy Pruett. "He is humble and doesn't say much, but everyone in the wrestling room looks up to him."
"Three sport-athletes are rare today, especially in 6A," said Cardinal Athletic Director Ron Boggs. "We are proud that Henry has chosen to compete at very high levels in all three of his sports and provide positive leadership. He continues to develop as a person and athlete, and we are very proud of him!"
Well done, Audrey and Henry! Your example is being noticed and appreciated. Keep up the great work! Thank you for supporting these exceptional student-athletes, Allatoona and Osborne!