The Kent Reporter athletes of the week for the week of March 7 are from Kentwood; Alex Palacios (Sr.)/Logan Wilson (Sr.) unified basketball, and Aubrey Kestle (So.) gymnastics.
What do you value in your sport or about your team?
Palacios: We work together and help each other out.
Wilson: I value the comradery and hard work my team puts into every practice.
Kestle: I value the connections I have made with my teammates and the sense of community we have.
What have you learned from your sport that you can take with you throughout your life/future?
Palacios: How to shoot a basketball.
Wilson: One thing I have learned from my sport I am going to take throughout my life is the little things matter. Putting yourself in the right place so you have a chance to succeed makes all the difference.
Kestle: I have learned perseverance from gymnastics, and I have learned that if you work hard enough, you can get where you want to be.
What do you do when you aren’t motivated and what helps you stay motivated?
Palacios: How to shoot a basketball.
Wilson: I set a goal and get to work.
Kestle:When I am feeling unmotivated, I try to set goals for myself, so I have something to work towards.
Do you have a favorite pre-game meal?
Wilson: Water
Palacios: Pizza and salad
Kestle: My favorite meal before meets is a hot pocket.
What advice would you give to a teammate that is struggling?
Palacios: Keep going and get out of your head.
Wilson: I would tell them to keep working, your team is always here to help you
Kestle: If my teammate was struggling, I would remind them that new skills don’t come overnight, but the satisfaction of finally getting it is worth it.
From the sidelines:
Wilson: Logan is a natural leader among his peers, standing out with his helpful nature and strong work ethic. As a partner for our Unified Basketball team, he brought out the best in everyone around him, helping elevate the team to new heights. He truly embodies the spirit of Unified Sports, creating an environment of teamwork, encouragement, inclusion, and respect.
Palacios: Alex has grown tremendously since joining Unified Basketball last year. His confidence has soared, and he now tackles challenges with determination rather than doubt. His dedication to the team has been instrumental—not only in his own growth as an athlete but also in our success and the continued strength of our Unified program.
Kestle: Aubrey deserves to be honored for athlete of the Week because of her unwavering dedication and leadership. She consistently shows up with a positive attitude, encouraging her teammates to push their limits and celebrate their progress, no matter how big or small. Her hardworking nature is evident in every practice, where she puts in the effort to improve and overcome challenges, inspiring others to do the same. Aubrey’s perseverance, especially during difficult moments, is a true testament to her strength and commitment. Her ability to lead by example, motivating others to stay focused and work together, makes her an exceptional athlete and teammate.
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