The Kent Reporter Athletes of the Week for Jan. 23 are from Kentlake High School; Ben Sanders (Jr.) swim and Kyra Ready (Jr.) dance.
What do you value in your sport or about your team?
Ready: What I value most about our Dance team is the connection you build with all your teammates and the life-long goals I’ve learned through competing in this sport.
Sanders: I value mutual respect between teammates and coaches, as well as people who put in the hard work to reach their goals.
What have you learned from your sport that you can take with you throughout your life/future?
Ready: Dance has taught me that self-discipline and taking the extra step is one of the most important things you can carry through life.
Sanders: I’ve learned what it means to have hard work pay off.
What do you do when you aren’t motivated and what helps you stay motivated?
Ready: I always rely on my fellow captains and officers who never let me fall without picking me up and pushing forward.
Sanders: When I’m not motivated I tend to start motivating others and that tends to motivate me.
Do you have a favorite pre-game meal?
Ready: My favorite pre-competition meal is lots of eggs and peanut butter is my secret weapon.
Sanders: My dad’s homemade pizza.
What advice would you give to a teammate that is struggling?
Ready: Everything is temporary. I like to take time to be grateful and mindful that I only get so many years competing in this sport and I should cherish every step of the way.
Sanders: I always tell them that it’s just an off day and to keep their head up. You’ve got a bright future and to just keep putting in the work, the payout will come soon.
From the sidelines:
Ready: Last year Kyra served as a Lieutenant so this is her second year in leadership on the team. Kyra does an amazing job setting a great example for her team. She is an excellent student, an incredible athlete, and is always willing to spend extra time working with any of the dancers who would like. She pushes herself to continue to grow in her craft and hopes to continue her dance journey in college. Kyra’s positive attitude and incredible work ethic are paramount at every practice and performance. She is a great asset to the Flames Dance Team!
Sanders: Ben is a three-sport participant. While he excels in all three, the water is where his true talent shines through. His versatility in the pool sets him apart as a dependable competitor in every event. As one of our captains, Ben consistently leads by example, combining a strong work ethic with a positive team first attitude. Ben’s leadership and experience make him a trusted voice on the team and a key influence in motivating his team-mates to perform at their best.
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