The Kent Reporter Athletes of the Week for Nov. 7 are from Kentridge High School; Owen Irey (So.) cross country and Makenna Bennett (Sr.) soccer.
What do you value in your sport or about your team?
Irey: I value the time I spend talking and playing around with my friends during warm ups and mainly the conversations we have during the middle of our long runs.
Bennett: I value the sense of trust that comes with being a part of the team. I love the goals we have and how we put in work, not for ourselves, but for each other. The friendships I’ve built on this team are the most special relationships I have.
What have you learned from your sport that you can take with you throughout your life/future?
Irey: I’ve learned that I can get through a lot of challenging things just with perseverance, and telling myself positive things
Bennett: I’ve learned how to stay consistent and take advantage of even the small opportunities that come
around. I’ve also learned that the result depends on the work you put in.
What do you do when you aren’t motivated and what helps you stay motivated?
Irey: When I’m low on motivation I remind myself of my long term goals, and the reason I started doing cross country in the first place.
Bennett: When I’m not motivated, I remind myself why I started playing and how good it feels to find success.
Surrounding myself with the right coaches and teammates is also a big part that helps keep me focused.
Do you have a favorite pre-game meal?
Irey: My favorite meal to have before a race is pasta the night before, and the morning of the race I would eat toast with jam, and some fruits like banana.
Bennett: Starbucks or a Caesar salad
What advice would you give to a teammate that is struggling?
Irey: I would tell my teammate to take it one run at a time, and to focus on the things they enjoy at practice. Whether it’s finishing a good workout, getting a PR, or even messing around with their friends before and after practice.
Bennett: I would tell them that confidence is everything and to trust the process.
From the sidelines:
Irey: Owen has continued to lead the Kentridge Cross Country team with outstanding performances and leadership. This week, he was the team’s top finisher at the Sub-District Meet, placing 18th overall with a time of 17:06. His consistent dedication to training and his competitive drive set the tone for the entire team. As the top runner Owen exemplifies the qualities of an athlete of the week—hard work, perseverance, and sportsmanship. He not only pushes himself to new levels but also motivates his teammates to improve every day.
Bennett: Makenna has had an excellent senior season, as she was ready to go from day one of tryouts. Makenna is technically strong and has ball control skills that allow her to be a creative playmaker and scorer in so many ways. Not surprisingly, Makenna leads the Kentridge team in assists. Additionally, Makenna has carried a positive attitude even in the most challenging times, she is a great leader in that aspect.
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