Allatoona Gymnastics Duo and Walton Pitcher Earn AOW
Cobb Schools' Athlete of the Week program is a weekly recognition of a male and a female student-athlete that perform at high levels in their sport, in the classroom, and in their school communities. The program is made possible by support from BSN.
This week's winners are athletes from Allatoona and Walton:
Bella Planeta & Kristen Hur, Gymnastics, Allatoona
For the first time ever, we have a pair of winners for Athlete of the Week! Bella & Kristen scored season high scores at the Preliminaries for State. Bella scored an 8.625 on Vault and Kristen scored a 9.15 on Floor. Their exceptional scores helped Allatoona secure a 5th place finish at State. Both girls are also stars in the classroom with weighted GPAs of over 3.5.
Bella is a junior and has been in gymnastics for six years. This is her first year on the Varsity team at Allatoona.
Kristen is a sophomore who's been participating in gymnastics for 12 years. This is her second year on the Varsity team, and she also part of the Varsity Cheer Team.
"They are two of the sweetest girls on the team," said their coach Rachel LaRoche. "They are very supportive of their teammates, and they always hold themselves to a high standard. They never give less than their best at practices and competitions. I know I can count on them in any capacity. Our team truly wouldn't be the same without their talent and positive attitude."
Rowan Park, Baseball, Walton
Rowan recently pitched a no-hitter against Tift County in the first round of the GHSA 7A state tournament. He pitched a perfect game into the 7th inning before giving up a walk with one out, then getting the next batter to hit into a double play to finish with a no-hitter. Walton was unfortunately eliminated in the second round with a one-point loss in the tie-breaker against Etowah. Rowan had a fantastic season though, closing out at 6-2 with a 2.28 ERA and 51 strikeouts and 22 walks.
"As a senior, Rowan has anchored our pitching staff for the past two years," said his proud coach Shane Amos. "He started as a sophomore and has won 12 games over his varsity career."
"Rowan is a leader on and off the field," said Walton Athletic Director Chris Williams. "He has served as the 'Game One' pitcher all year and has shown his younger teammates what it takes to be successful in a very difficult baseball region and state. He is one of our shining stars in a strong class of senior student-athletes, and he’s had a great season and career at Walton."
Congratulations to Allatoona and Walton, and to Bella, Kristen, and Rowan for being outstanding examples of student-athletes. Best of luck to each of you as you continue your educations and sporting careers and thank you for all you do for Cobb Schools and your local communities!