ALL-STAR AWARDS

Multiple fall athletes have been recognized in The Republic as athletes of the year. Anthony Johnson was named for soccer, as well as Cooper Horn for football and Ava Bunker for girls’ golf. Julia Kiesler was not only girls’ cross country runner of the year, but she was also named Miss Cross Country by the Indiana Track and Cross Country Coaches Association. Flynn Keele also won the IHSAA mental attitude award for boys’ soccer.

During the Indiana Youth State Hockey State Championship, senior and Columbus Icemen member

Outstanding athletes are recognized for their athletic and academic abilities

by Lydia Weed design by Carson Embree

John Merritt was awarded with the Howard Guitard mental attitude award. He was chosen out of all the senior hockey players in Indiana. He stood out among other candidates because of his high GPA, involvement in school activities and his senior project, which raised thousands of dollars for hockey equipment.

“My coaches had a huge impact on me winning this award,” Merritt said. “Coach Koy, Coach Bennet and my dad were all huge influences in my life that taught me the characteristics that led me to winning this award.”

Merritt discusses how his teammates have encouraged him throughout the season.

“They were always supporting me every step of the way, and I knew I could always count on them if I needed their help,” Merritt said.

Senior basketball player Emma Long was named to the All-Conference First Team as well as Academic All-State. She was also awarded the Bulldog Award. She was named to the Academic All-State because she had at least a 3.5 GPA, was in the top 25% of her class and played multiple seasons on varsity.

“The Academic All-State really meant a lot because I have always worked on my academics,” Long said.

Being named to the AllConference team was a big