This week our 1590 WAKR Student Athlete of the Week is Caleb Eckenrode of Springfield High School.
Caleb plays on the golf team for the Spartans, and he got into the game at an early age, learning the ins and outs from his stepfather.
““My stepfather introduced me to the game at the age of seven, started out as a family thing," Caleb explained. "I didn't get into competitive golf until about the 8th grade, and it just took off from there."
Caleb is a letterman in golf, and also participates in indoor track and outdoor track.
His coach Jack Morgan spoke about his demeanor on the course and how he applies himself on the links.
“Caleb possesses maturity beyond his years on the golf course, “ he said.
“Caleb has developed his golf game into something that is very fun to watch. He plays within himself and does not try anything that he is not capable of doing and he will only continue to improve throughout his high school career and I look forward to see how he grows as a golfer and as a person."
Caleb says he enjoys watching PGA golfers Jordan Spieth and Dustin Johnson for their prowess on the course and their cool off it.
We wish Caleb the best in all of his future endeavors.
Our next Student Athlete of the Week is Emma Sandefur, a cross-country runner who competes for Springfield High School.
Her head coach Kevin Gorby said Emma’s goals are lofty, but she has the skill and determination to reach them.
“As an athlete Emma Sandefur is our hardest worker. Emma has dedicated herself this year to being the best. She dreams of getting to the State meet, and her work ethic will get her there,” he said.
“As a person Emma is a great teammate who truly cares about those around her. Emma has great character, and works hard to be the best person she can be. “
Emma says that working with her coaches and teammates is something that she enjoys and looks forward to day in and day out.
“ It's fun," she said. "We've become close as a team and we're friends."
In addition to participating in cross country, Emma is also a member of the band. She says balancing academics and athletics is of the utmost importance.
“You have to be able to split your time and get your stuff done," she says.
We wish Emma the best in all of her future endeavors.