New for the 2025-2026 school year, CCSD will highlight two student-athletes each Wednesday.
Nominations are provided from the school level to the district athletic director; one school will be featured each week.
Week 23 - Wando High School
Ana Laurient
Track & Field
On the track, Ana has built a career defined by consistency, leadership, and championship performances. She is a SCHSL 5A Division I State Champion in the 800 meters, a CCSD Champion, Tri-County Champion, Region and District Champion, and the 2025 Coaches Classic Elite Champion in the 800. She has been recognized as All-State, SC #1 in both the 800 meters and the 4x800 relay, and was named MileSplit Player of the Week in April of 2025. Ana holds Wando High School records in the 800 meters and the 4x800 relay, and she was part of the South Carolina state-record-holding 4x800 relay team. She was also named the Cane Bay Invitational 2025 Most Outstanding Girls Track Athlete, earned the Wando Ultimate Warrior Award for Track and Field, served as a team captain, and competed at the 2025 New Balance Outdoor Nationals. These accomplishments reflect not just talent, but relentless preparation and a championship mindset.
According to her coaches, what makes Ana truly exceptional is that her excellence extends far beyond the track. She served as Director of the FBI at ALA Girls Nation, a House Representative at ALA Palmetto Girls State, and a Girls Nation Senator at ALA Girls State—roles that require confidence, integrity, and the ability to lead under pressure. She has also excelled academically and artistically, earning recognition as a College Board AP Scholar with Honor, a recipient of the College Board National Recognition Program School Award, and a South Carolina All-State Thespian.
Ana was honored with the East Cooper Center for Advanced Studies Beacon of Light Award and the Bob Hayes Chick-fil-A Student Athlete Award, both of which recognize character, leadership, and service. Ana holds the current fastest 800m run in the state of Sc and is ranked in the top 25 nationally. Ana will continue her track and academic career at Cornell University.
Ignacio "Nacho" Oria
Tennis
Nacho Oria is a three-year starter and co-captain on the Wando boys varsity tennis team. He has helped lead the Warriors to back-to-back 5A Lower State Championships and currently plays at #5 on a team that is once again a serious contender to reach the state final. Nacho, whose family is from Argentina, speaks fluent Spanish and English. He also excels academically with an exemplary GPA while completing Honors and Advanced Placement courses. He plans to attend Clemson upon graduation.
Week 22 - St. John's High School
Daeshia Buford
Track & Field/Basketball
Daeshia Buford is an outstanding student-athlete with a grade point average (GPA) above 3.0 and excels in multiple sports. She has proven herself both in the classroom and in competition. On the basketball court, Daeshia earned All-Region honors, showcasing her talent and dedication to the game. In track and field, she has achieved even greater success. Daeshia is an individual state champion and also contributed to a team state championship, demonstrating both personal excellence and the ability to perform as part of a championship team. Because of her hard work, discipline, and athletic success, Daeshia has been awarded a track and field scholarship to attend Spartanburg Methodist College. This opportunity reflects her commitment to academics and athletics, and it marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in her journey. Her achievements are a testament to perseverance, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence both on and off the field.
Gabe Robinson
Wrestling/Football
Gabe Robinon, a dedicated student-athlete with a GPA above 3.0, has been accepted to The Citadel, where he will continue both his academic and athletic career as a member of the Bulldogs' wrestling program. Throughout his high school career, Gabe has excelled in multiple sports while maintaining strong academic performance. On the football field, he earned All-Region honors, demonstrating his athletic ability, toughness, and leadership. Gabe has also distinguished himself on the wrestling mat with several impressive accomplishments. He was crowned King of the County in wrestling, earned All-Region honors, and finished in fifth place at the state wrestling tournament, solidifying his reputation as one of the top competitors in the state. His acceptance to The Citadel marks a significant milestone, providing him with the opportunity to compete at the collegiate level while pursuing a rigorous academic experience. Known for developing disciplined leaders, The Citadel will offer Gabe the chance to continue growing both as a student and an athlete. Family, coaches, and supporters are proud of Gabe’s hard work and dedication and look forward to watching him represent The Citadel as he begins this exciting next chapter.
Week 21 - R.B. Stall High School
Louane Evora
Soccer
Louane is a senior soccer player from Perpignan, a city in the Southern region of France. Moving here in 2024, this is Louane's first and last soccer season as a Warrior before graduating this May. At Stall, Louane has earned honor roll recognition every semester while also taking college-level courses through Charleston Southern University. After graduating, Louane plans to attend college to study linguistics and become a translator. She is an excellent representative of our girls' soccer program with a unique and diverse playing experience.
Austin Clark
Basketball
Austin is a disciplined and smart student-athlete who balances elite academic performance with a high-level basketball skillset. Defined by a relentless work ethic and a commitment to continuous improvement, he serves as a versatile asset on both ends of the court. Austin is currently seeking a collegiate program that aligns with his dual pursuit of academic excellence and competitive athletic success.
Week 20
Military Magnet Academy
Gladys Palomino Azurza
Wrestling
Gladys Palomino Azurza embodies what it means to be a Military Magnet cadet. She consistently demonstrates discipline, determination, and excellence in everything she pursues. In the classroom, Gladys maintains a strong academic focus, earning honor roll recognition both semesters through her hard work, organization, and commitment to success.
Gladys' drive extends well beyond academics. As one of our standout female wrestlers at Military Magnet, Gladys has proven herself to be a fierce and dedicated competitor. This season, she achieved an impressive top-six finish in the state for her weight class, a testament to her relentless work ethic, toughness, and competitive spirit. She represents our program with pride every time she steps on the mat.
What makes Gladys even more special is her heart for service. When she is not training or competing, she actively gives back to her school community through volunteer work, demonstrating true cadet leadership and selflessness. She understands that excellence is not just about personal achievement but also about uplifting others.
In addition to her wrestling accomplishments, Gladys continues to sharpen her skills in martial arts. With 11 years of experience in jujitsu and judo, she has earned the rank of brown belt, an outstanding milestone that reflects years of discipline, perseverance, and technical mastery.
Eli Lizcano
Wrestling
Eli Lizcano is a standout on and off the mat. Eli earned the unique achievement of qualifying for both the junior varsity and varsity wrestling state meets this season. He placed second at the South Carolina High School League A Lower State individual tournament, proving his ability to compete with much older athletes. This freshman is also a model student who is active on the school's robotics team.
Week 19 - February 18, 2026
North Charleston High School
Kamora Green
Cheerleading
"Kamora Green has been a leader for our cheer squad long before she was promoted as captain," explained NCHS Athletic Director Adrain Grady. "This leadership started at tryouts, where she was observed helping her fellow participants learn the moves taught to them. After making the team, Kamora immediately took initiative before being named captain. She began teaching both junior varsity and varsity members new and old cheers. She communicated well with her coaches and often gave advice that would eventually benefit the team. After being named captain, Kamora's leadership kicked into overdrive. She assisted with game day, often bringing food and essentials needed to help our girls. She even offered to pay for up to 3 cheerleader's team dues, knowing the hardships that some of her teammates go through. Kamora is an excellent example of a leader, an upstanding student, and a genuine, kind-hearted person. Responsibility and leadership come easily to her. She is goal-oriented and team-oriented. A class act, to say the least."
Cedric Burkes
Wrestling
"We are proud to recognize Cedric for his outstanding success on the wrestling mat," said NCHS Athletic Director Adrain Grady. "Cedric won the Lower State championship in the 165-pound weight class at this past weekend's state qualifier. Entering the tournament as the number one seed, he lived up to expectations and represented North Charleston High School with excellence. We look forward to seeing what he will accomplish at the upcoming state championship meet."
Week 18 - February 11, 2026
Lucy Beckham High School
Lindsey Meslow
Basketball
Lindsey Meslow is a senior captain who leads by example. According to her head coach, she has a tremendous work ethic that rubs off on her teammates. Lindsey is averaging 9.6 points and 6.4 rebounds per game this season.
Gianni Battone
Wrestling
Gianni Battone is a two-time state champion who is poised to compete for another South Carolina High School League state title this year. The senior, who competes at the 138-pound weight class, just won the Region 7-AAAAA championship and took the gold at the Bearcat Tournament last month. Gianni began the week with a 41-1 record this season with 29 pins, and has 197 wins during his high school career.
Week 17 - February 4, 2026
James Island Charter High School
Anna Ogiba
Tennis
Anna Ogiba had a big senior season for the Trojans. She was named to the All-Lowcountry First Team in 2025 and made the North-South All-Star Tennis Team, where she went 2-0 playing singles and doubles. During her junior season, she earned the Region 7-AAAAA Player of the Year honor.
Taj Marchand
Baseball
Taj Marchand, a senior, is the reigning AAAAA Division 1 Player of the Year in the state as well as the MaxPreps South Carolina Player of the Year. He led James Island to the South Carolina High School League AAAAA Division 1 state title last year with a .514 batting average, 38 runs scored, 12 doubles, 12 home runs, and 49 runs batted in. Marchand also dominated on the mound, recording a 6-1 record with a 1.85 earned run average and 53 strikeouts in 43 innings pitched. He recently signed to play baseball at Ole Miss.
Week 16 - January 28, 2026
Charleston Charter School for Math and Science
Ellis Britt
Basketball/Softball/Volleyball
When it comes to balancing academics and athletics, few do it better than Ellis Britt, a junior at CCSMS. A true multi-sport standout, Ellis has spent years making her mark across multiple programs, playing basketball and softball for five years each and competing in volleyball for four years. On the court and on the field, Ellis brings consistency, dedication, and a team-first mentality. But what truly sets her apart is what she does in the classroom. With an impressive 4.8 GPA, she exemplifies what it means to be a Scholar-Athlete. Ellis is also deeply involved in her school community, serving as a member of FBLA, the National Honor Society, and the Scholar Council. Whether she’s leading in competition or in the classroom, she continues to represent CCSMS with integrity, work ethic, and excellence.
Zion King
Basketball/Soccer
Senior Zion King has made his mark at CCSMS as one of the most dynamic and accomplished athletes in the program. A multi-sport competitor, Zion has spent four years on the basketball court and two seasons representing CCSMS on the varsity soccer field, showing his versatility and dedication to excellence. On the hardwood, Zion’s impact speaks for itself. Currently ranked in the Top 5 in the South Carolina High School A classification in points per game, he averages an impressive 19.9 points per contest. He leads SCHSL A in free throws made with 98 and ranks second in the classification in field goals made with 113. Add in 3.5 assists and 3.3 steals per game, and it’s clear that Zion influences every part of the game. This season, Zion reached a major milestone by scoring his 1,000th career point at CCSMS. This is a testament to his consistency, work ethic, and longevity within the program. In the classroom, Zion continues to balance his athletic success with academics, maintaining a 3.27 GPA while competing at a high level in multiple sports.
Week 15 - January 21, 2026
Burke High School
Nathaya Phoenix
Basketball
"Nathaya Phoenix is a remarkable example of what it means to be a dedicated student-athlete at Burke High School and in the Charleston County School District," explained the head coach of the Burke girls' basketball team, George Jenkins III. "She consistently excels in her academic pursuits, maintaining an A/B Honor Roll status. Nathaya demonstrates commitment, perseverance, and a positive attitude in everything she does. Nathaya is ranked #5 according to the PrepGirlsHoops Class of 2028. Whether she is on the court, practicing, or supporting her teammates, she leads by example with her strong work ethic and willingness to help others succeed. Nathaya’s determination, character, and respect for her teammates and coaches make her a standout representative of the Charleston County School District and a deserving recipient of the Student Spotlight recognition.
Sammy Mattison, Jr.
Basketball/Football/Track and Field
"Sammy Mattison Jr. is a dedicated and well-rounded student who embodies the spirit of a Burke Bulldog," said Kevin Hammack, the head coach of the Burke boys' basketball team. "He takes his academics seriously while being actively involved in athletics as a three-sport athlete, competing in football, basketball, and track and field. Sammy is well-known on campus for his positive attitude, respect for others, and willingness to assist both teammates and classmates whenever needed. Teachers and coaches commend his effort, consistency, and desire to learn, while his peers admire him as a leader. His commitment to his school, his teams, and his personal development makes him an outstanding choice for the CCSD Student Spotlight."
Week 14 - January 14, 2026
Baptist Hill High School
Makayla Mungin
Basketball/Cheerleading
"Makayla Mungin is an exceptional example of leadership, energy, and dedication across multiple roles at school," said Head Coach Jordan Moultrie. "As a cheerleader, Makayla consistently demonstrates outstanding leadership qualities, bringing enthusiasm, creativity, and fresh ideas that help motivate and unify her team. In addition to her leadership roles, Makayla excels academically, earning placement on the A–B Honor Roll, and participates in the Sports Management Program at the West Ashley Center for Advanced Studies. Her involvement in this program highlights her interest in sports beyond competition and her commitment to understanding leadership, organization, and management within athletics. Makayla also contributes athletically as a shooting guard for the Lady Bobcats basketball team, where she brings determination, teamwork, and a positive mindset to the court. Whether leading from the sidelines, excelling in the classroom, or competing in games, Makayla represents what it truly means to be a well-rounded student-athlete.
Justin Porter
Basketball/Football
"Justin Porter exemplifies what it means to be a true student-athlete both on and off the field," said Head Coach Corey Fields. "As a defensive end during football season and a shooting guard during basketball season, Justin consistently brings energy, discipline, and effort to everything he does. Justin is known for his strong work ethic and his willingness to put in the extra effort to improve his game. He is a selfless teammate who always prioritizes the team's success, whether that means taking on the dirty work on defense or stepping into his role on the court without hesitation. What truly sets Justin apart is his coachability and positive attitude. He takes direction well, applies feedback immediately, and leads by example through his actions. His commitment to being a great teammate and his dedication to growth make him a standout representative."
Week 13 - December 10, 2025
Academic Magnet High School
Louise Martin
Sailing
Louise Martin is a senior and a decorated sailor. Currently, Louise is at the ISAF Youth Worlds, a global event for U-19 sailors, which mimics Olympic competition. She qualified for this by winning the U-19 female division of the Youth Championships in Fort Lauderdale, FL, earlier this fall. She also sailed in the U-19 ILCA-6 World Championships this summer, finishing 12th overall and the top American in her field. Louise is also a member of the USA Youth National Team. Louise has committed to attending Harvard next fall, where she will sail for the Crimson while majoring in applied mathematics and economics.
Bennett Bair
Basketball
Bennett Bair is a senior who has played on the men's basketball team for four years, the baseball team for one year, and the men's golf team for three years. He is the first to greet you with a kind smile and a positive conversation anytime he sees you. As a student-athlete, Bennett exemplifies the concept of leaving it on the court. He gives 110 percent and is never afraid to do the least desirable work, often diving across the court to prevent a ball from going out of bounds or getting on the floor for a loose ball. He is a prime example of a student-athlete who leads by his actions, not his words. Bennett will be going to The Citadel next fall to major in business management.
Week 12 - November 19, 2025
West Ashley High School
Bella Bozard
Golf
As a member of the West Ashley High School girls' golf team, Bella has continued to excel both in the classroom and on the course, maintaining a 4.80 GPA. She led the team to a second-place finish in the Region 8-AAAAA tournament and a 10th-place finish in the state tournament. This season, Bella was selected to the All-Region 8-AAAAA golf team and represented West Ashley in the prestigious North–South Golf Tournament.
Bristol Biegenzahn
Football
As a member of the West Ashley football program, Bristol has maintained a 4.39 GPA and continued to excel both academically and athletically during his time here. He has committed to play football for Elon University, a Division I institution, to continue his academic and athletic career. He was also selected to compete in the South Carolina Football Shrine Bowl—an honor earned by only 44 student-athletes statewide each year. Bristol is a leader on and off the field and someone coaches and school leaders rely on to help uphold the program’s expectations. This season, he led the team in tackles, sacks, and tackles for loss.
Week 11 - November 12, 2025
Wando High School
Ava Kaplan
Golf
Ava Kaplan is a five-time All-Region 7-AAAAA selection, the 2025 Region 7-AAAAA Golfer of the Year, made the 2025 All-State team, and is a North-South All-Star. Kaplan, a senior, has a 5.027 GPA. She is committed to continuing her academic and athletic career at Division I Stonehill College next year.
Luke Green
Swimming
Luke Green recently won three gold medals (state titles) and a silver medal at the 2025 South Carolina High School League AAAAA Division 1 state swim meet. Green has been part of the Warriors' swimming program since his seventh-grade year. He currently has a 4.583 GPA.
Week 10 - November 5, 2025
St. John's High School
Kennedy Moore
Volleyball
"Kennedy is a standout student-athlete who excels in both the classroom and on the volleyball court," explained Athletic Director Hank Campbell. "Her dedication, focus, and team spirit set her apart, inspiring those around her to give their best. Kennedy's leadership, determination, and positive attitude make her a true example of what it means to be a scholar and an athlete. She continues to raise the bar for herself and her teammates through her hard work and commitment to success."
Preston Heyward
Football
"Preston is a dedicated student-athlete who consistently gives his all both on and off the field," said Athletic Director Hank Campbell. "He plays with high energy, strong effort, and unwavering determination. Preston leads by example, inspiring his teammates through his hard work, positive attitude, and commitment to excellence. His passion for the game and drive to improve make him a standout both as a player and a leader."
Week 9 - October 29, 2025
R.B. Stall High School
Marsy Garcia Lara
Volleyball
"A senior and team leader, Marsy Garcia has been a key part of the Lady Warrior volleyball team’s success this season," said Athletic Director Michelle Kelleher. "Known for her electric energy, positive attitude, and leadership both on and off the court, she pushes her teammates to be better and represents what it means to be a Warrior. Off the court, Marsy excels in the classroom and is involved in JROTC as a captain and unit advisor. She has also been involved with the Beta Club and has assisted as a student trainer with our athletic trainers. Marsy has set the standard for excellence in the classroom and in competition as a Warrior."
Harold Sanchez-Oseguera
Swimming
"Harold has been with the R.B. Stall swimming program for four (4) years," said Head Coach and Region 8-AAAAA Coach of the Year Rachel Stevens. "He specializes in the breaststroke and has, year after year, improved his times from his freshman year until now. He is a supportive team captain, leader within the student council, and is a great example to others as we grow the program and introduce new swimmers, as he almost never misses a practice or event and is still able to uphold excellent grades as an honors student."
Week 8 - October 22, 2025
North Charleston High School
Makaila Lee
Volleyball
"Makaila, who is a sophomore, is our court captain," said Head Coach Nikisa Lee. "She leads with heart—balancing academics and athletics like a champ. MaKaila brings the heat with powerful digs, hits, blocks, and serves, all fueled by her passion and hard work."
Lorenzo Kitching
Football
"One of the top football players in the area, Lorenzo leads the team in scoring, rushing, and receiving yards," explained Head Coach Adrain Grady. "He has been named our overall Player of the Game five times this season and has earned a Prep Redzone Game Ball on four occasions. His consistent performance, leadership, and versatility make him one of the most dynamic athletes in the Lowcountry."
Week 7 - October 15, 2025
Military Magnet Academy
A'Mya Johnson
Volleyball
"A'Mya is the team captain who stays positive under pressure and always puts the team first," said Head Coach Luis Hernandez. "She leads by example during practices and matches and inspires everyone around her to improve. Her serves are powerful and consistent, her passes are sharp, and her ability to read defenses makes her an all-around, six-rotation player. She has been our middle hitter for the past two years, and this year, has led her team to a 6-3 region record."
Maalik Patton
Football
"Maalik is a key component for the varsity football team, starting both as fullback and linebacker," explained Head Coach Derrell Pringle. "The sophomore is a cadet leader and a role model in school. Cadet Patton is a member of the National Honor Society, DECA Club, and a state qualifier in wrestling."
Week 6 - October 8, 2025
Lucy Beckham High School
Sara Lynn Banks
Cheerleading
"Sara Lynn is our September Athlete of the Month for Lucy Beckham," said Coach MacKenzie Spraker. "She is our head senior captain. She leads by example and with strength. Sara Lynn is an integral part of our team's success. She is encouraging to her teammates, and we are incredibly lucky to have her."
Baylor Zepp
Volleyball
"Baylor is our September Male Athlete of the Month for Lucy Beckham," stated Coach Adam El Hassan. "Baylor is a natural leader who has played a key role in developing and supporting our new junior varsity athletes. On the court, he excels in any position we put him in. This year, he has stepped into multiple roles to fill gaps for the team, never once complaining, always prepared, and consistently putting the needs of his team first. That type of selflessness and adaptability is rare in athletes. We are truly fortunate to have Baylor in our program, and I can confidently say he is the most deserving candidate for this honor."
Week 5 - October 1, 2025
James Island Charter High School
Sydney Lavarnway
Martial Arts
"Sydney has established herself as one of the top young karate athletes in the country, competing in kumite (standing karate competition) at both the national and international levels," explained Athletic Director Jeremy Holland. "She balances the demands of elite training and travel with academic excellence, carrying a 4.73 GPA and membership in the National Honor Society. Sydney is also active in the community, volunteering with the Lowcountry Food Bank and Catalyst Sports."
Lukas Petrillo
Surfing
Lukas Petrillo won the Eastern Surfing Association (ESA) Mid Atlantic Regional Championship for Open Longboard. He is currently the second-ranked longboarder in South Carolina and ranked fourth on the East Coast.
"Lukas is a talented young surfer here on 'The Island' who is known not only for his skill in the water but also for his character on land," said Athletic Director Jeremy Holland. "He consistently represents James Island Charter High School with pride, both in and out of competition. He regularly volunteers his time through partnerships with the Southern South Carolina ESA, Shaka Surf School, and Ocean Surf Shop, working to provide underprivileged kids with access to the ocean and the opportunity to experience surfing."
Week 4 - September 24, 2025
Charleston Charter School of Math and Science
Maggie Bond
Volleyball
"Maggie Bond is a senior at CCSMS, and a multi-sport athlete playing both varsity volleyball and softball," said Athletic Director Lakyn Traquair. "Along with her athletic commitments, Maggie also serves as the Future Business Leaders of America President at the CCSMS chapter and is a member of Beta Club, all while maintaining a 4.1 grade point average."
Max Berry Cross Country
Max Berry is a junior at CCSMS and a leader on our cross country team," said Athletic Director Lakyn Traquair. "He broke the school record (fastest time) for a single race this season. Max is also a member of the National Honor Society and serves as secretary for our Beta club. Max is currently ranked in the top five percent of his class and has a 4.87 grade point average."
Week 3 - September 17, 2025
Burke High School
Myla Marion
Volleyball
"Myla is a first-year player who consistently shows hard work and gives 110% effort both on and off the court," said Head Coach Andrea Masters. "After high school, she plans to attend college and major in communications, with the goal of becoming a language translator."
D'Cameron Amous
Football
"Just a sophomore and in his first year playing varsity football, Cam has consistently demonstrated leadership and kindness both on and off the field," said Head Coach Earl Brown.
Week 2 - September 10, 2025
Baptist Hill High School
Ma Isabella Ramirez-Martinez
Volleyball
"Ma Isabella Ramirez-Martinez has shown remarkable growth in our volleyball program and continues to be a tremendous asset to the team," Head Coach Stephanie Edwards stated. "As an eighth grader, she demonstrates strong leadership both on and off the court, setting the standard for her peers and helping to build a foundation for the program’s future success. Beyond athletics, Isabella excels in the classroom, taking honors courses while balancing the demands of being a dedicated student-athlete. Her leadership, work ethic, and determination make her a true role model and an essential part of our program."
Brayden Franklin
Football
"Brayden Franklin is a standout quarterback who exemplifies leadership both on and off the field," said Head Coach/Athletic Director Marion Brown. "His ability to read the field and make smart decisions during plays sets him apart as a true student of the game. Brayden’s dedication to perfecting his craft shows through his consistent work ethic and commitment to growth. Beyond his athletic skill, he demonstrates excellent teamwork, motivating and supporting those around him. His leadership, character, and determination make him an invaluable asset to his team."
Week 1 - September 3, 2025
Academic Magnet
Sam Peters
Football
"Sam is a young man who approaches football with the same dedication and discipline that he shows in the classroom," explained Head Coach Austin Miller. "His commitment paid off in a big way with an outstanding performance against Patrick Henry Academy; he made two pick-sixes (interceptions returned for touchdowns) on his birthday to help secure the win. I’m excited to watch his development throughout the season and confident that his best football is still ahead of him."
Isa Jickling
Swimming
"Isa Jickling is a four-year varsity swimmer whose dedication and talent have made a lasting impact on her team and school community," said Head Coach Jaci Healy. "A state champion and accomplished competitor, Isa has consistently demonstrated excellence in the pool while leading with humility and determination. As team captain, she serves as a positive role model, motivating her teammates through encouragement, hard work, and a team-first mindset. Her commitment, positivity, and perseverance define her as both an outstanding athlete and an inspiring leader."
