As winter and fall sports take center stage, standout student-athletes are emerging. Cross country meets have come to a close, leaving football as the last fall sport in the limelight. Long distance runners, football players, and standout soccer players are now taking center stage. Notable athletes include three top ten finishers from the cross country state series meet – Preston Wright and Tay’juan Leslie-Farmer who excelled in their recent regional semifinal football games and Selvin Banegas Rodas who led Belleview to an undefeated record in soccer.

The audience is encouraged to vote once per hour for their favorite athlete on social media so friends and family can join in. Voting closes on Thursday at 2 p.m., with the results posted Friday morning.

Marion County playoff football teams are highlighted, with Preston Wright leading in the football category with 4 passing TDs, while Selvin Banegas Rodas led the soccer category with 4 goals and 1 assist in 3 games. Other outstanding athletes recognized include Hunter Duncan in soccer, Cedric McFadden in cross country, and Gianna Meccia in soccer.

With such a wide array of talent on display, these star student-athletes are making an impact on their respective sports and are sure to be a joy to watch in future competitions.