Rockwall Jacket Backers name Athletes of the Month

(ROCKWALL, TX – Feb. 2, 2016) The Rockwall High School Jacket Backers ecently selected Adam Alford as the February Yellowjacket Athlete of the Month, and Katie Givens as the February Lady Jacket Athlete of the Month.

Alford, a 12^th grade member of the Varsity Gymnastics Team, was nominated by Coach Cameron Sweny and chosen by the Jacket Backers board.

Alford and his team competed in two meets in January. In both of those meets, he led his team to victory. He also earned several individual honors: 2nd place All Around at Birdville (1/15/16) along with 1st place finishes on vault and high bar; 1st place All Around at RHS against rival Lakeview Centennial (1/28/16) along with 1st place finishes on Pommel Horse, P-bars, and high bar.

Alford is currently ranked 4th in the state in the All Around. He also holds a top 10 ranking across the state in every event at this point. Alford is also team captain. As the team captain, and top all-arounder, his performance has a strong impact on how well the team does. The team is now ranked 3rd in the state.

“Adam has done a great job this season. His latest meet against Lakeview (1/28/16) is the best meet of his career so far. He continues to work hard each and every day. He continues to push and support his teammates to get the best out of them. Our team is most capable when Adam is at his best in performance and leadership. I look forward to a strong season,” said Coach Sweny.

Also nominated were Chris Garrett (Soccer), Jonathan Jonas (Wrestling), Mitchell Eldridge (Swimming), and Ian Bentley (Basketball).

Katie Givens, an 11^th grade member of the Varsity Soccer Team, was nominated by Coach Melissa Garcia and chosen by the Jacket Backers board.

She is a three-year varsity letter and team captain as a junior. In 10 games, Given has scored 7 of the 19 goals on the season. She is one of the most outstanding student athletes. She maintains both her athletics and academics at Rockwall to a high standard while also competing at an elite level in club soccer. She has led her team to two victories to open district play. She is a versatile player, playing wherever her teams needs her most.

“It continues to be an honor and a pleasure to have Katie Givens play a key role in this team’s success over the last two and a half years. Her determination and drive on the field are an inspiration to not only her teammates but to people in the community who know her and watch her play. She plays the game with passion and commitment,” said Coach Garcia.

Also nominated were Jackie Mote (Wrestling), Amanda Armstrong (Swimming), Katie Weidman (Gymnastics), and Cathryn Deshong (Basketball).

Submitted by Steve Arenas, Chairman, Communications Committee, Jacket Backers Booster Club.

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