The Kent Reporter athletes of the week for the week of Sept. 27 are from Kentwood; Diya Thomas (Jr.) soccer, Ethan Heidal (Jr.) football.
What do you value in your sport or about your team?
Thomas: I value a willingness to work hard and play with a winning mindset. Our recent success this year has come from each and every player being scrappy and fighting for every ball.
Heidal: Football is a stress reliever for me and I’ve learned a lot from my coaches and appreciate the support I get from them and my teammates.
What have you learned from your sport that you can take with you throughout your life/future?
Thomas: You don’t have to be the smartest, strongest, or most technical on the field. While all of these things are great, never taking a play off will make you stand out so much more throughout life.
Heidal: Football has taught me that even though mistakes might be made, it’s important to learn and grow from them for next time.
What do you do when you aren’t motivated and what helps you stay motivated?
Thomas: When I’m not motivated, I pray, give it to God and surround myself with people who will never fail to hype me up.
Heidal: I force myself to go to the gym and field. I stay motivated by remembering previous years and where football can take me.
Do you have a favorite pre-game meal?
Thomas: A banana!
Heidal: My grandma’s chicken wings.
What advice would you give to a teammate that is struggling?
Thomas: Forget about it and make it up on the next play.
Heidal: For the younger guys, you’re not instantly going to be good. I’ve spent a lot of time grinding by myself and countless hours studying the game.
From the sidelines:
Thomas: Diya Thomas plays with such a passion for this game, that is seen thru her tireless work to get the ball and keep the for her with her teammates. Showcasing the example of a next level elite soccer player can be, which drives her teammates to do the same. Scoring goals is just one piece that makes up Diya, not only a good soccer player but a great person that her teammates want to be around to share these life experiences with. Smiles, sisterhood, and scoring makes Diya a very special individual. We are fortunate to be part of her life.
Heidal: Ethan exceptionally plays with relentless determination and consistently excels on both sides of the ball. Having overcome significant adversity, he sets a high standard of humility and teamwork, inspiring those around him with his outstanding level of play. Wearing #55, he holds the highest honor for linemen in our program
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