Dalton Brooks; Shiner HS

Shiner sophomore Dalton Brooks knows what it takes to succeed. Whether in the classroom or in his athletic endeavors, Brooks stands out. While the sophomore loves to play all sports, football is easily his favorite.

“Football teaches you a ton of life lessons” Dalton said, reflecting on his favorite aspects of the game.

The love was given to him by his family. Dalton watched his brothers play, and now he looks to carry on that tradition; a tradition that is in safe hands, as the sophomore is coming off a state championship win in which he earned Offensive MVP honors.

Dalton’s ability to excel isn’t simply relegated to the football field. He has been recognized by the state for his academics as well. The accolades are just a form of motivation for Dalton, each one showing benefit of the work behind the scenes.

While the community of Shiner is undoubtedly proud of Dalton, he too is incredibly proud of them. Dalton spoke at length about how much the community meant to him. He felt that their presence and support was an integral part of the team’s success, a support that he pays forward. Whether he is helping with moves or working with a group that helps build houses, the thought of the importance of community always at the forefront of his mind.

Though the sophomore is just getting started, he has already made huge waves. Not sure of where he wants to attend college, Dalton said that he hopes to be able to continue pursuing football. One day he would like to be able to continue to pay back the support he has received by becoming involved in coaching, helping to continue what has given him so much positivity in his life.

Carsann Baker; Springlake-Earth ISD

Springlake-Earth senior Carsann Baker has been involved with sports for as long as she can remember having grown up the daughter of a coach. If there is a sport to be played, Carsann is signed up and willing to participate.

Of all the sports she participates in, it is track that is her favorite.

“Track gives you the importance of team, but also being able to directly focus on how to improve as an individual.” Carsann said.

When asked about her love for sports, Carsann said, “A big part of this has been my father. He always tells me I don’t have to be the best; I just have to try my best.”

Not only does Carsann give her best, but she also competes as one of the best. In basketball, Carsann excelled and garnered a defensive award. In track she was the district and area champion, as well as qualifying for regionals in two events.

But standing out in her athletic endeavors is only the beginning. Carsann also finds herself on the Academic All State list as well. Through all her activities, Carsann has managed to maintain an A/B Honor Roll while also being a member of the National Honor Society. She’s done all of this while being in student council and maintaining an officer position for three years.

Expressing how much her community’s acceptance and support of her meant, she tries to give back by volunteering at the animal shelter and where she can. The senior looks to continue her education at West Texas University, where she will study nursing and no doubt continue on her path to do great things.