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Players of the Month By Brandon Ge

As the midway point of the winter sport season approaches, some of Pinewood’s student athletes have established themselves as key players in their teams.

Sophomore Andrew McDowell has been playing basketball since fifth grade, and his five year experience playing the sport has led him to become the most impactful and skilled player on the boys varsity basketball team.

Because of his impressive performance on the hardwood, McDowell has been acknowledged by numerous college basketball programs.

“Over the summer I played pretty well and received form recognition from some colleges. Due to this I was fortunate enough to be invited and go on a couple unofficial visits to Northwestern and Emory,” McDowell said.

McDowell also has interest from a few other Division one and Division two schools, which he is very excited about.

Additionally, senior Elle Ladine has been playing as impressively as McDowell on the court. Having received an offer and scholarship earlier this year from the University of Washington, Ladine’s goals are high this season.

“My goal for the team this year is to really find our connection and reach our highest potential,” Ladine said. “Our goal every year of course is to win the state championship and to just be the best team we can be.”

Ladine grew up having a dad and brother who would constantly play basketball around her.

“Just being around [them] every day has really helped me love the sport,” Ladine said. “ I’ve been able to make some of my best friends doing a sport and it’s just a great way to stay healthy, make friends, and learn about life. ”

Another sport of the winter season — soccer — has its own star players as well. Senior and girls soccer team captain Mia Pistelak has been playing at a high level this season.

“My goals for the team this year is to leave everything we have on the field and just try our hardest no matter what the outcome,” Pistelak said.

Pistelak’s five year club soccer experience has allowed her to fall in love with different aspects of the sport. She primarily values the constant teamwork and energy on the field.

“I will really miss playing with the school team,” Pistelak said.

Similar to Pistelak, junior Jason Rowe has been able to shine on the field through his hard work and talent. Soccer, however, is not his main sport.

“I played soccer up until I was around 12 years old,” Rowe said. “I now play tennis outside of school instead of soccer.”

Rowe’s attitude towards this soccer season is more of a relaxed approach. He added that he just wanted to have a good time this season.

“My goals [this season] are to have fun, play the best I can on the field, and get other people on the team involved,” Rowe said.

Photos courtesy of Saavri Biswal and Sam Jezak