FLINT – The Flint-area Athlete of the Week poll is now open, celebrating the exceptional performances of high school athletes from January 19 to January 25. This initiative by MLive provides an opportunity for the community to recognize talented individuals in sports such as basketball, hockey, bowling, wrestling, swimming, and gymnastics.
Fans can cast their votes until 9 a.m. on January 30, 2024. The voting process allows supporters to back their favorite athletes as often as they wish. While participation does not influence postseason awards, it fosters a sense of community support for these young athletes. Votes must be submitted through the official poll, as those cast via social media or email will not be counted. Coaches and athletic directors are encouraged to nominate players by reaching out to [email protected], with nominations accepted until 11:59 p.m. on January 28.
Nominees for the Week
The nominees for this week’s poll showcase outstanding achievements across various sports.
**Ella Rizzo**, representing Ortonville Brandon in girls basketball, averaged 15.5 points and 4.5 rebounds during her team’s 1-1 week. Her standout performance occurred on January 23, where she scored 19 points, contributing significantly to a 46-19 victory against Clio.
**Harper Wozniak** from Clio also made headlines in boys basketball, leading the Mustangs to two wins while averaging 21.5 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. His notable game came during a 67-61 win over Ortonville Brandon, where he recorded 21 points, five rebounds, and six steals.
**Ray Neither** from Flushing had an impressive week, averaging 29.5 points per game, including a remarkable 33-point performance in a 63-52 win against Flint Powers Catholic on January 20.
**Cooper Boike**, representing Genesee Christian, contributed to his team’s success with two wins, averaging 22 points and 9 rebounds. His best outing was during an overtime victory against Southfield Christian on January 24, where he tallied 24 points, nine rebounds, and five assists.
**Kendyl Smith** of Powers Catholic achieved a personal milestone by scoring her 1,500th career point on January 23, helping her team secure a 2-0 record for the week with performances of 19 and 22 points.
Additional Highlights from Various Sports
In hockey, **Ayden Cook** of Powers Catholic scored a hat trick during a decisive 9-1 victory over Kalamazoo United on January 24.
Wrestling also saw outstanding performances. **Isaiah Klaffer-Jerke**, **Weston Millen**, and **Jase Fuller**, all from Lapeer, excelled at the Lapeer Friday Night Frenzy on January 23, winning their respective brackets. Klaffer-Jerke went 4-0 in the 120-pound category, Millen went 3-0 in the 132-pound bracket, and Fuller went 5-0 to claim victory in the 285-pound division.
In bowling, **Emma Rogers** from Otisville LakeVille Memorial rolled a career-high score of 202, leading her team to a 29-1 win over Birch Run on January 24. **Alivia Doggett** of Corunna matched her personal best with a 227 game, contributing to a 22-8 victory against Ortonville Brandon.
As the community engages in this voting process, the recognition of these athletes highlights the dedication and talent present in Flint-area high schools. Each athlete has not only showcased exceptional skill but also embodies the spirit of sportsmanship and competition that the region values.
Community members are encouraged to participate in the voting and support their favorite athletes as they continue to strive for excellence in their respective sports.
