Kent Reporter Athlete of the Week: Kentridge

Published 1:30 am Thursday, December 4, 2025

The Kent Reporter Athletes of the Week for Dec. 5 are from Kentridge High School; Keaira Sinclair (Sr.) gymnastics and Collin Jones (Sr.) Tennis.

What do you value in your sport or about your team?

Sinclair: The thing I value the most about gymnastics is that it’s a team sport but it’s also individual, so we can all help each other with skills without the fear of impacting the team if we aren’t the highest scorer. We all work together, but at the end of the day we focus on bettering ourselves instead of having to be better for the team.

Jones: The one thing I value most in my sport and my team is the level of sportsmanship and camaraderie that players have. After long matches, win or lose, you still shake your opponent’s hand and say good match. Tennis is a sport about making quick decisions whether a ball is in or out, and making these decisions impartially speaks about the level of sportsmanship you have. Additionally, the camaraderie between the team is obvious, where all teammates cheer for each other and lift up everyone’s spirits.

What have you learned from your sport that you can take with you throughout your life/future?

Sinclair: One thing I’ve learned from gymnastics is to work hard for things you want, don’t give up just because it’s difficult.

Jones: The one thing that I can take with me throughout my life/future is perseverance. When you are presented with large obstacles that seem insurmountable, you can always overcome them if you persevere through them. Tennis has taught me this in instances where even if you are at a large score deficit, any match is winnable if you keep persevering.

What do you do when you aren’t motivated and what helps you stay motivated?

Sinclair: I try to remember that just because things aren’t coming to me right away, it doesn’t mean they never will. It helps me stay motivated by thinking of it as improving for myself, not for anyone else.

Jones: When I’m unmotivated, I think about how my future self will benefit from the time and effort my present self puts in. One thing that helps me stay motivated is envisioning a successful future.

Do you have a favorite pre-game meal?

Sinclair: Spaghetti and garlic bread

Jones: My favorite pre-game meal is teriyaki chicken with rice and broccoli.

What advice would you give to a teammate that is struggling?

Sinclair: Take your time. Don’t try to rush things and get frustrated that they’re not immediately working. If something is too difficult, step away from it for a moment and come back to it later.

Jones: The piece of advice I would give to a teammate who is struggling is to keep putting time and effort into the sport, because gradual improvement is sometimes unnoticeable and that can be discouraging. However, one day, after all the hard work and effort you have put into the sport, the results will become apparent, and you will see how far you’ve come.

From the sideline:

Sinclair: This athlete has done a wonderful job as our only senior captain, helping us kick of the season strong. She consistently leads by example and creates a positive, focused environment in the gym. Her mentorship and encouragement toward the younger athletes show her commitment to the team. We are grateful for her leadership and she is truly deserving of Athlete of the Week.

Jones: Congrats to our Athlete of the Week, Collin Jones

Demonstrating sportsmanship, respect, and leadership at every practice and match.