High School Sports

Power players

The Athlete of the Year semifinalists can light up a room and a scoreboard.
Saucon Valley’s Cole Hubert is a lehighvalleylive.com Athlete of the Year semifinalist. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

The semifinalists for the 2025 lehighvalleylive.com Athlete of the Year award have each made their own unique mark on their high school programs.

Here, we profile the 16 standouts and learn why they were passionate about competing for their schools in multiple seasons … We also learn that Instagram is the current social media king.

Read below for more about the semifinalists, who answered questions ranging from insightful to irrelevant. Also, help decide our overall winners by voting via the ballots included in this post (voting will run through Friday).

Cole Hubert, Saucon Valley

If anyone had a reason to specialize in one sport, it was Saucon Valley High School’s Cole Hubert.

Hubert saw his baseball recruitment take off as he became one of the most sought-after left-handed pitchers in the nation. The Panthers standout signed with Texas A&M University in the Southeastern Conference.

The senior, however, still took the mat for the Saucon Valley wrestling program this winter.

“The big thing for me was being there for my team and finishing through,” said Hubert, a two-time District 11 champion and four-time state qualifier in wrestling. “I’ve wrestled with my teammates, especially our senior class, for 12-13 years now. I wanted to finish it out with them and be there for the team. I enjoy competing. Doing another sport and having another chance to have that competitive atmosphere is something I was looking for.”

There aren’t many similarities between painting the outside corner with a fastball and working a cradle. Hubert, however, said the need to perform under pressure was the same.

“Baseball is more hand-eye coordination and wrestling is more brute force,” he said.

Hubert has seen Saucon Valley make state-wide splashes in both sports. The Panthers won the PIAA 2A team tournament his freshman year. The baseball program reached the state semifinals during his sophomore season.

“It’s great to represent my community and my school,” Hubert said. “I’m glad that I’m able to do that in a positive fashion. Hopefully, I’ll be able to continue to represent them going forward.”

Hubert off the field (and mat)

If I’m not practicing, I’m: Hanging out with friends.

Favorite school subject: Math.

Favorite teacher: Mr. Mel Moyer (English).

Sports idol: Dustin Pedroia.

College plans: Texas A&M University (biomedical engineering).

Dream job: MLB player.

Favorite TV or streaming show: The Night Agent.

Top social media platform: Instagram.

Favorite musical artist or band: Morgan Wallen.

Entrance music: “Kryptonite” by 3 Doors Down.

Hidden talent: He can juggle.

Favorite candy or snack: Twix.

Favorite restaurant: A1 Japanese Steak House.

No. 1 movie: The Star Wars series.

Favorite pro sports team: Boston Red Sox.

Favorite exercise at the gym: Bench press.

Something you think everyone loves but you hate: Shopping.

Teammate that gets you most hyped: Tyler Pfizenmayer.

Favorite place in the world: The baseball field.

Most irrational fear: Snakes.

Matt Rader competed in golf, basketball and baseball for Allentown Central Catholic. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

Matt Rader, Allentown Central Catholic

Matt Rader has represented his school in atmospheres both chaotic and serene.

The senior saw the floor as the basketball team battled Northwestern Lehigh in a fiery District 11 Class 4A championship game this winter. He also travelled the much calmer Penn State White Course during the PIAA golf championships.

“It’s really cool,” Rader said. “You get to put on the Viking uniform and go out and show what it means to be a Viking. I just go out and try my hardest every time and give everything I’ve got.”

Rader enjoyed the variety that golf, basketball and baseball brought to the school year.

“I just like to be busy. They’re all fun,” he said. “I couldn’t just choose one. I didn’t really know what my main sport was until I got to my sophomore year of high school.”

His primary sport, it turns out, is baseball. The senior, who tossed a no-hitter earlier this spring against Pleasant Valley, will join the hardball program at Mansfield University.

While baseball is his future, Rader is grateful for the connections and skills he’s cultivated while being a three-sport athlete.

“I think they all serve a purpose. I get better at each one by doing another … If I played only one or two sports, I don’t think I would have met nearly as many people,” the senior said. “I have friends that I talk to every day from each sport.”

Rader off the field (and court)

If I’m not practicing, I’m: Fishing.

Favorite school subject: Social Studies.

Favorite teacher: Mr. Joseph Elkins (English).

Sports idol: Trevor Bauer.

College plans: Mansfield University (business).

Dream job: MLB player.

Favorite TV or streaming show: PGA TOUR coverage.

Top social media platform: Instagram.

Favorite musical artist or band: Metallica.

Entrance music: “For Whom the Bell Tolls” by Metallica.

Hidden talent: He can hold six baseballs in one hand.

Favorite candy or snack: KitKat.

Favorite restaurant: Willow Street Pub (North Whitehall Township).

No. 1 movie: No Country for Old Men.

Favorite pro sports team: New York Yankees.

Favorite exercise at the gym: Trap bar deadlifts.

Something you think everyone loves but you hate: McDonald’s.

Teammate that gets you most hyped: Jahrel Vigo and Michael Martinez.

Favorite place in the world: Diamond Nation.

Most irrational fear: Snapping turtles.

Joe Roth participated in football, basketball and track and field for Lehighton. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

Joe Roth, Lehighton

Making milestones at Lehighton Area High School runs in the family for Joe Roth.

Roth’s cousin, Dennis, was the first player in school history to reach 1,000 points when he hit the scoring plateau in 1953.

Joe Roth added his name to the Indians’ banner this winter while also making an impact in football and track and field.

“Representing Lehighton was really important to me,” said Roth, who is the first Athlete of the Year semifinalist for Lehighton, which was added to the lehighvalleylive.com coverage area for the 2024-25 scholastic season.

The senior made 32 catches for 421 yards and seven touchdowns during football season, surpassing 1,000 career receiving yards. He averaged 17.9 points and 8.5 rebounds per contest on the hardwood. In the spring, Roth won a Colonial League championship in the javelin.

Roth, who will join the track and field program at East Stroudsburg University, never considered limiting himself to one sport. According to the senior, his athletic pursuits are spurred by knowing there are kids in the hospital who’d do anything to be in his shoes.

“That’s just a motivation for me to wake up in the morning and go play sports,” he said.

Despite being a member of the Class of 2025, Roth picked a sports role model that many youngsters chose in the 1990s.

“Michael Jordan, his mentality was like no other, and he would do whatever it takes to win,” Roth said.

Roth off the field (and court)

If I’m not practicing, I’m: Outside playing sports or hunting.

Favorite school subject: Science.

Favorite teacher: Mrs. Erica Pagotto (history).

Sports idol: Michael Jordan.

College plans: East Stroudsburg University (exercise science).

Dream job: Personal trainer.

Top social media platform: Instagram or Snapchat.

Favorite musical artist or band: Eminem.

Entrance music: “The Final Countdown” by Europe.

Hidden talent: His compound bow hunting skills.

Favorite candy or snack: Doritos.

Favorite restaurant: Chili’s.

No. 1 movie: American Sniper.

Favorite pro sports team: Chicago Bulls.

Favorite exercise at the gym: Squats.

Something you think everyone loves but you hate: Hot weather.

Teammate that gets you most hyped: John Light.

Favorite place in the world: Alaska.

Dylan Boyle competed in cross country and track and field for Freedom. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

Dylan Boyle, Freedom

Moments of glory climbing the medal stand are the fun parts of distance running.

Grueling long training sessions during the summer are not.

As Freedom High School’s Dylan Boyle learned, however, the former isn’t possible without the latter.

“I wouldn’t have the work ethic I have now if it wasn’t for athletics,” Boyle said. “Athletics have taught me so much: discipline, humbleness. You have to not just be a good athlete but a stand-up person. I feel like if I never had (running) in my life, I wouldn’t grow as a person. I thank God every day for that.”

Boyle’s commitment to the Patriots cross country and track teams resulted in gold medals during the fall and spring. He was the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference and District 11 Class 3A cross country champion, as well as the D-11 3A winner in the 1,600-meter run.

The senior, who will run at Thomas Jefferson University, has cherished earning gold for the Black and Gold.

“It’s probably meant everything to me,” he said. “Coming from freshman year until now, those four years of putting in all the effort were not just for me but for my coaches, my family and everybody that supports me in this ... At the end of the day, you’re supporting your school; you’re going out there, you’re trying hard and you’re doing your best. It feels like a nice sense of accomplishment.”

Boyle off the course (and track)

If I’m not practicing, I’m: Spending time outdoors, hanging out with friends.

Favorite school subject: Math.

Favorite teacher: Mr. John Harvey (industrial arts, science) and Mr. Jeffrey Young (AP Calculus).

Sports idol: Cooper DeJean.

College plans: Thomas Jefferson University (architecture).

Dream job: Architect.

Favorite TV or streaming show: The Last Dance.

Top social media platform: Instagram.

Favorite musical artist or band: Tyler, the Creator.

Entrance music: “9” by Drake.

Hidden talent: Surfing.

Favorite candy or snack: Gummi Bears.

Favorite restaurant: Three OAK Steakhouse (Easton).

No. 1 movie: Whiplash.

Favorite pro sports team: Philadelphia Eagles.

Favorite exercise at the gym: Pullups.

Teammate that gets you most hyped: Infinite Chiu.

Favorite place in the world: Ireland.

Most irrational fear: Not getting an opportunity.

Matthew Scerbo Jr. played football and basketball for Phillipsburg. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

Matthew Scerbo Jr., Phillipsburg

When young Stateliners fans approached Matthew Scerbo Jr. after a football or basketball game, it was a full-circle moment for the Phillipsburg High School standout.

“Growing up, the big thing at P’burg is always sports,” Scerbo said. “When you’re a kid, you’re always looking up to all the football players or basketball players ... Everyone is striving to be in the high schoolers’ shoes that we were watching as a kid. I think that made us a lot better and made us hungrier. It made us have pride in our school.”

Scerbo set the bar high for the next wave of athletes who will wear the Garnet and Grey. He completed his football career with 132 catches for 2,277 yards and 24 TDs, setting every major school receiving record. His record-breaking ways continued into the winter as he became the basketball program’s all-time leading scorer (1,752 points).

Scerbo was an All-State football third-team selection and All-Group 4 basketball first-team choice by NJ.com.

The senior, who will play football at Lafayette College, will always remember how the P’burg community provided one-of-a-kind support.

“When you go to other schools, it just never really feels the same. You can tell the community is not in it as much,” Scerbo said. “It doesn’t mean as much to them as it does here. Having that chip makes us have good football teams every year. We’re not always the biggest, but I feel like we want it more than others.”

Scerbo off the field (and court)

If I’m not practicing, I’m: Playing video games.

Favorite school subject: History.

Favorite teacher: Mrs. Kathleen Fisher (English) and Mr. Thomas Quinn (history).

Sports idol: Russell Westbrook.

College plans: Lafayette College (economics).

Dream job: Have his own business.

Favorite TV or streaming show: Naruto.

Top social media platform: Instagram.

Favorite musical artist or band: Lil Uzi Vert.

Entrance music: “New Patek” by Lil Uzi Vert.

Favorite candy or snack: Sour Patch Kids.

Favorite restaurant: LongHorn Steakhouse.

No. 1 movie: Logan.

Favorite pro sports team: Philadelphia Eagles and Philadelphia 76ers.

Favorite exercise at the gym: Curls.

Something you think everyone loves but you hate: Mashed potatoes.

Teammate that gets you most hyped: Xavier Moore.

Favorite place in the world: The Outer Banks, N.C.

Most irrational fear: Blood.

Carmine Diaz played football and basketball at Notre Dame G.P. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

Carmine Diaz, Notre Dame

There were plenty of reasons Carmine Diaz wanted to get on the football field and basketball court this year, but family was at the top of that list.

“It was a long process. It felt like forever,” Diaz said about his recovery from an injury that wiped out his junior season. “Coming back after the injury was really exciting for me, because I finally got to play with people I wanted to play with my whole high school career. It was my last year to play with my brother, so that meant a lot.”

Diaz’s younger sibling, CJ, joined him in the fall and the winter for Notre Dame.

“It felt really good,” the older Diaz said. “That was one of my goals, to play with my brother. At first, I didn’t think it was going to happen.”

The Crusader made up for lost time. He registered 1,081 receiving yards and caught 12 touchdowns on the gridiron. His productivity continued on the court, where he averaged 15.2 points and 5.6 rebounds per game.

“I love football and basketball,” the senior said. “I knew, eventually, I was going to have to give one up. I wanted to keep playing them both as long as I could.”

Diaz, who’ll play football at Shippensburg University, enjoyed representing NDGP and everything that went with it.

“I loved hearing that we had a target on our back and that everybody was going to give their best against us,” he said. “That built me up, thinking I had to give my best.”

Diaz off the field (and court)

If I’m not practicing, I’m: Sleeping.

Favorite school subject: Math.

Favorite teacher: Mr. John Reinhart (English).

Sports idol: Russell Wilson.

College plans: Shippensburg University (undecided).

Dream job: NFL player.

Favorite TV or streaming show: Snowfall.

Top social media platform: YouTube.

Favorite musical artist or band: Lil Baby.

Entrance music: “Dreams and Nightmares” by Meek Mill.

Favorite candy or snack: Skittles.

Favorite restaurant: Any hibachi place.

No. 1 movie: Black Panther.

Favorite pro sports team: Seattle Seahawks.

Favorite exercise at the gym: Deadlifts.

Something you think everyone loves but you hate: Partying.

Teammate that gets you most hyped: Christian Rivituso.

Favorite place in the world: His bedroom.

Most irrational fear: Heights.

Jacob Brunetti competed in cross country, swimming and track and field for Easton. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

Jacob Brunetti, Easton

The Athlete of the Year award has applauded dozens of three-sport athletes. Few, if any, added tenor saxophone duties to their sporting pursuits.

Easton’s Jacob Brunetti has learned to balance cross country, swimming and track and field with his musical obligations.

“It’s hard to find this at other schools, I think. Everyone is so understanding of such a busy schedule,” Brunetti said. “Our band director, Mr. (Christopher) Ballentine, he’s always accommodating to the athletes that are also in band – and we have a 300-person band.”

Brunetti picked his pastimes after realizing that “ball sports” (soccer, basketball, lacrosse) weren’t for him. Swimming was his “love at first sight” sport, even if his introduction to the pool didn’t go well.

“I had a miserable first practice. I threw up right after,” he said. “So, not the best start. I remember my coach telling me, ‘I never thought you’d come back after that.’ I stuck with it.”

Things have gotten better since then. Brunetti was a District 11 Class 3A champion this winter in the 200-yard IM. As a junior, he helped Easton’s 200 freestyle relay win D-11 gold while also ending the program’s drought without an individual state qualifier.

“It was really special to me that I was able to put Easton on the map a little bit, especially with that relay last year,” he said. “... Easton swimming, the people supporting it have always been so positive. To be able to give them that kind of victory is pretty awesome.”

Brunetti out of the pool

If I’m not practicing, I’m: Hanging out with friends or playing video games.

Favorite school subject: Government.

Favorite teacher: Mr. Brad Bachman (English).

Sports idol: Michael Phelps.

College plans: University of Scranton (business administration and environmental science).

Favorite TV or streaming show: The Amazing World of Gumball.

Top social media platform: Instagram.

Favorite musical artist or band: Bruno Mars.

Entrance music: “Kung Fu Fighting” by Carl Douglas.

Hidden talent: He can do an “insane” stomach vacuum.

Favorite candy or snack: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

Favorite restaurant: Wawa.

No. 1 movie: The Truman Show.

Favorite pro sports team: Detroit Lions.

Favorite exercise at the gym: Triceps extensions.

Something you think everyone loves but you hate: Taylor Swift.

Teammate that gets you most hyped: Cooper Lamas.

Favorite place in the world: Long Beach Island, N.J.

Most irrational fear: Dying alone.

Eli Zimmerman played football, basketball and baseball for Northwestern Lehigh. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

Eli Zimmerman, Northwestern Lehigh

Eli Zimmerman dashed into the end zone during overtime of the PIAA 3A final to complete the greatest season in Northwestern Lehigh football history.

Fewer than 48 hours later, he was at basketball practice.

“It was definitely a tough thing to do,” Zimmerman recalled. “We had the state championship game on a Saturday. We had Sunday off and then Monday, we were right into it. Coach (Patrick) Wanamaker was really good about getting us loose and letting us get some shots up during the football season – Coach (Josh) Snyder was also great about that.”

The schedule of a three-sport athlete is hectic, especially when you play for Northwestern and the seasonal overlap is exacerbated by state tournament runs.

“My senior year, I always wanted to play three sports. Baseball was the questionable one going into the season, especially when I committed in the winter,” said Zimmerman, who’ll play football at Bloomsburg University. “I ultimately decided to stick with (baseball), and I’m glad I did. We’re having an incredible season so far.”

The lehighvalleylive.com Football Player of the Year has savored the Tigers’ success in 2024-25, including the aforementioned state football title, a league hoops championship, and appearances in the league and District 11 baseball finals.

“The community support that we’ve had this season with every sport I’ve played, is incredible,” Zimmerman said. “It’s like a second family to everybody. Being able to put on performances in not just football but basketball and baseball, means the world to me.”

Zimmerman off the field (and court)

If I’m not practicing, I’m: Eating or sleeping.

Favorite school subject: Social Studies.

Favorite teacher: Mr. Dave Kerschner (history).

Sports idol: Conor McGregor.

College plans: Bloomsburg University (education).

Favorite TV or streaming show: Family Guy.

Top social media platform: Instagram.

Favorite musical artist or band: Gunna.

Entrance music: “hakuna matata” by Gunna.

Hidden talent: He can do back and side flips.

Favorite candy or snack: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

Favorite restaurant: Chick-fil-A.

No. 1 movie: Happy Gilmore.

Favorite pro sports team: New York Giants.

Favorite exercise at the gym: Squats.

Something you think everyone loves but you hate: Condiments on a burger.

Teammate that gets you most hyped: Devon Hildebrand

Favorite place in the world: Florida.

Most irrational fear: Stink bugs.

Boys ballot

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Aubre Krazer competed in field hockey and wrestling for Easton. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

Aubre Krazer, Easton

Aubre Krazer’s wrestling career has created globe-trotting opportunities as she competes at the international level.

The Easton senior, however, never lost her connection with her introduction to organized athletics.

“There was never a thought in my mind to stop playing field hockey, because that was the first sport I actually played,” Krazer said. “I just have so much love for that sport.”

Unfortunately, field hockey will give way to Krazer’s wrestling career when she reaches Lehigh University. The Red Rover, however, appreciated the benefits that her dual-sport approach yielded.

“There’s definitely some grit in both of them,” she said. “Field hockey is a lot of running ... A lot of conditioning translates into both ... Some of the movements are similar and some are different, so it’s kind of like cross-training. I’m involving other parts that I wouldn’t if I was just wrestling all the time with field hockey – and vice versa.”

It might get lost behind the senior’s two PIAA wrestling titles, but Krazer was an EPC first-team all-star in field hockey.

“It’s good to have something to strive towards every day when you wake up in the morning and just go for it … I’ve made it through so many things in sports that have been tough – physically and mentally,” Krazer said. “It really translates to anything else. There are going to be times in life when you’re stuck or don’t know what to do. It’s just figuring it out, staying disciplined and staying set on your goals.”

Krazer off the mat (and field)

If I’m not practicing, I’m: Hanging out with my best friend.

Favorite school subject: History.

Favorite teacher: Mr. Scott Ordway (history).

Sports idol: Skylar Grote.

College plans: Lehigh University (undecided).

Dream job: Physical therapist.

Favorite TV or streaming show: Suits.

Top social media platform: TikTok.

Favorite musical artist or band: SZA.

Entrance music: “Can’t Stop” by Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Hidden talent: She can walk on her hands.

Favorite candy or snack: TruFru.

Favorite restaurant: Stoke Coal Fire Pizza & Bar and Aman’s Artisan Indian Cuisine (Easton).

No. 1 movie: Legally Blonde.

Favorite exercise at the gym: Romanian deadlifts.

Something you think everyone loves but you hate: Pickles.

Teammate that gets you most hyped: Zoe Angelinas.

Favorite place in the world: Any beach.

Most irrational fear: Spiders.

Marisa Price-Velazquez played soccer, basketball and softball for Dieruff. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

Marisa Price-Velazquez, Dieruff

Marisa Price-Velazquez already had plenty on her plate.

The Dieruff High School student played basketball and softball, besides working as a youth mentor/volunteer in the Allentown Police Department’s PAL program.

When her cousin asked her to join the Huskies soccer team, however, Price-Velazquez decided to add a third sport to her schedule during her junior year.

“It was hard at first, but I always like a challenge, so I stayed after practice, before practice and went to different training sessions just to make sure that I’m the best possible player I could be,” she said.

It’s clear that the senior likes to be busy.

“I just try to stay active as much as possible,” Price-Velazquez said. “It’s just different to play many different sports and enjoy every season with different teammates and new coaches.”

Price-Velazquez was grateful for the mentorship of basketball coach Cathy Piston and softball coach Brianna Knipe throughout her scholastic career.

“It means a lot, being able to represent my school not only for one sport but for three different sports,” Price-Velazquez said. “It just shows how much I appreciate my school and how they’ve supported me.”

The senior’s top varsity highlight was helping the basketball program reach the District 11 tournament after a long drought.

“Athletics were a major part of my high school experience,” she said. “They allowed me to make new friends, meet many different people. It’s just been a great overall experience.”

Price-Velazquez off the court (and field)

If I’m not practicing, I’m: In the Poconos camping or four-wheeling.

Favorite school subject: Science.

Favorite teacher: Ms. Marilyn Navarro (Spanish).

Sports idol: A’ja Wilson.

College plans: East Stroudsburg University (athletic training).

Dream job: Being an athletic trainer at the University of Connecticut.

Favorite TV or streaming show: Grey’s Anatomy.

Top social media platform: Instagram.

Favorite musical artist or band: Tyler, the Creator.

Entrance music: “La Negra Tiene Tumbao” by Celia Cruz.

Favorite candy or snack: Airheads.

Favorite restaurant: Red Crab – Juicy Seafood (Whitehall Township).

No. 1 movie: Kingsman: The Golden Circle.

Favorite pro sports team: Golden State Warriors and Las Vegas Aces.

Favorite exercise at the gym: Deadlifts.

Something you think everyone loves but you hate: Mint chocolate chip ice cream.

Teammate that gets you most hyped: Nylyn Gomez.

Favorite place in the world: Texas.

Most irrational fear: Any bug.

Delaney Chilcote played soccer and basketball for Parkland. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

Delaney Chilcote, Parkland

Parkland High School’s Delaney Chilcote knows the value of a good role model.

She was shaped by former Trojans basketball standouts Madi Siggins, a 2024 Athlete of the Year semifinalist, and Talia Zurinskas.

“They were really essential in my development,” Chilcote said. “Having people to look up to kind of allows you to form who you want to be.”

After Parkland topped Easton in the District 11 6A hoops final, Chilcote discovered she’s providing an example for the next crop of Trojans.

“A bunch of little kids came up to me after the game. I didn’t really have an interaction like that before, where they just wanted a picture with me and seemed really excited,” she said. “Looking back, I was definitely one of those kids, too, who would go to the high school games when I was in elementary school.”

Those children will want to emulate Chilcote’s performances in basketball and soccer. The senior was an EPC all-star in both sports.

“With Parkland having so many impressive athletes, it’s nice to represent them,” Chilcote said. “… Parkland was really important in my development as a player.”

Chilcote, who will play basketball at Susquehanna University, knows her athletic endeavors have prepared her for the next step.

“Playing at a high level forces you to grow up a little quicker, especially if you’re going through the recruiting process,” she said. “... The lessons I’ve learned from (sports) are really crucial to being successful later in life.”

Chilcote off the field (and court)

If I’m not practicing, I’m: Sleeping.

Favorite school subject: Math.

Favorite teacher: Ms. Jessica Winkelbauer (English).

Sports idol: Tyrese Maxey.

College plans: Susquehanna University (business).

Favorite TV or streaming show: Ozark.

Top social media platform: Instagram.

Favorite musical artist or band: Drake.

Entrance music: “Rollin’” by Limp Bizkit.

Favorite candy or snack: Goldfish.

Favorite restaurant: BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse.

No. 1 movie: Good Will Hunting.

Favorite pro sports team: Philadelphia Eagles.

Favorite exercise at the gym: Dumbbell military press.

Something you think everyone loves but you hate: Cheese.

Teammate that gets you most hyped: Carly Spang.

Favorite place in the world: Florida.

Most irrational fear: Becoming homeless.

Kayla Melsky participated in wrestling and softball for Phillipsburg. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

Kayla Melsky, Phillipsburg

It wasn’t an easy decision for Kayla Melsky to leave the Phillipsburg High School swimming team in favor of the Stateliners’ new girls wrestling program.

In the end, though, it was historic.

Melsky will forever be the first girl to register a pin against rival Easton in a dual meet.

“It was a really cool first dual meet and everyone was so excited,” Melsky said. “… My family is kind of a wrestling family. My brother and dad wrestled. I would go to the weekend tournaments with my brother growing up.”

Melsky was also inspired take the mat by Phillipsburg great Jewel Gonzalez, a two-time NJSIAA champion and the 2020 lehighvalleylive.com Girls Athlete of the Year.

The senior still found a way to get in the pool, continuing her swimming career on the club circuit.

“I love all the sports I do,” Melsky said. “I couldn’t imagine not playing them. I like staying busy and learning more.”

Whether it was swimming, wrestling or softball, the senior appreciated having the rabid support of the Stateliners fan base.

“Every sporting event, people go to it, no matter the event,” she said. “... We just have a really strong community that has everyone’s back.”

Besides her pin against the Red Rovers, Melsky’s game-winning grand slam against Delaware Valley is at the top of her list of personal highlights. She’ll continue her softball career at Centenary University … but she’s also intrigued by the Cyclones’ upstart women’s wrestling program.

Melsky off the field (and mat)

If I’m not practicing, I’m: Playing with her dog.

Favorite school subject: Business.

Favorite teacher: Mr. Jeff Knappenberger (psychology).

Sports idol: Aaron Judge.

College plans: Centenary University (business administration and marketing).

Dream job: Flight attendant.

Favorite TV or streaming show: Shark Tank.

Top social media platform: Instagram.

Favorite musical artist or band: Morgan Wallen.

Entrance music: “Roadhouse Blues” by The Doors.

Hidden talent: Remembering birthdays.

Favorite candy or snack: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

Favorite restaurant: Texas Roadhouse.

Favorite pro sports team: New York Yankees.

Favorite exercise at the gym: Bench press.

Something you think everyone loves but you hate: Macaroni and cheese.

Teammate that gets you most hyped: Maddie Fallon.

Favorite place in the world: Montana.

Most irrational fear: Staircases.

Milly Wolf competed in volleyball, basketball and track and field for Allentown Central Catholic. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

Milly Wolf, Allentown Central Catholic

Milly Wolf captured championships with the volleyball and basketball teams throughout her career at Allentown Central Catholic.

This spring, she added some individual gold.

“It was different, but it was really nice,” said Wolf, who won the District 11 Class 2A high jump. “... My coach, Dan Reichenbach, he coached me in seventh grade in basketball. Now, he’s coaching me in track. It was just really cool to (win a district title) with him coaching me.”

Wolf, in fact, was grateful for all her mentors at Central Catholic, including longtime leaders Mike Kopp (basketball) and Laurie Corcoran (volleyball), as well as current hoops coach Kathy Davidowich.

“This school has such a rich tradition in athletics and it’s great to be a part of it,” said Wolf, whose siblings, Darcy and Joe, were also star athletes for Central.

The Vikettes standout is the reigning lehighvalleylive.com Girls Volleyball Player of the Year after a career that included 2,405 assists, 552 kills and 141 blocks. She’ll continue her volleyball career at Boston College.

The senior received all-EPC honors during basketball season while averaging 14.1 points per outing.

Wolf, who was also involved in extracurricular activities at Central, volunteering and youth coaching, has grown to appreciate the tight-knit nature of the community on 4th and Chew streets.

“What we really pride ourselves in is that we’re all really close. It’s just a big family, no matter what sport,” she said. “I think everyone just really cares for each other.”

Wolf off the court (and field)

If I’m not practicing, I’m: Spending time with family and friends.

Favorite school subject: Math.

Favorite teacher: Mr. Dan Kendra (physical education/health) and Mrs. Courtney Wiegand (forensics).

Sports idol: Caitlin Clark.

College plans: Boston College (finance).

Dream job: Working on Wall Street.

Favorite TV or streaming show: Gossip Girl.

Top social media platform: Instagram.

Favorite musical artist or band: Drake.

Entrance music: “Levels” by Avicii.

Favorite candy or snack: Skittles.

Favorite restaurant: Chipotle.

No. 1 movie: The Lion King (1994).

Favorite pro sports team: Arizona Cardinals.

Favorite exercise at the gym: Squats.

Something you think everyone loves but you hate: Nutella.

Teammate that gets you most hyped: Jena Odenthal and Leah Sweetana.

Favorite place in the world: New York City.

Most irrational fear: The ocean.

Madacyn Rivera competed in soccer, wrestling and softball for Pen Argyl. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

Madacyn Rivera, Pen Argyl

Rough-housing with a relative rarely sets people on a particular path in life, but Madacyn Rivera’s introduction to wrestling was very influential.

Rivera, who relished chances to knock around her cousin Brayden Krasnopera, took the mat at a young age and continued her wrestling, soccer and softball careers through four years at Pen Argyl Area High School.

The three-sport lifestyle suited Rivera just fine, because she’s not one to laze around idly.

“I was an active person,” she said. “I never could really sit down and stay still. I was never that person that could sit there and watch a game. I wanted to be involved. I didn’t want to stop moving.”

Rivera, who will wrestle at Cedar Crest College, was a two-time District 11 champion. Since the Green Knights don’t have a standalone girls team, she regularly competed against boys and amassed 12 victories against male competitors over the last two seasons, including six pins.

“Especially with wrestling, I always want people to know that they can do what they want if they put their mind to it,” said Rivera, who was a PIAA medalist this winter. “Nothing should really stop them.”

Wrestling will be the senior’s focus in the years ahead, but she’s thankful for the way soccer and softball shaped her high school experience, too.

“It definitely helped me be involved more in everything,” she said. “You get to meet new people across the sports.”

Rivera off the field (and mat)

If I’m not practicing, I’m: Eating.

Favorite school subject: Gym.

Favorite teacher: Ms. Sarah Hannick (English).

College plans: Cedar Crest College (early childhood education).

Dream job: Elementary school teacher.

Favorite TV or streaming show: Grey’s Anatomy.

Top social media platform: Instagram.

Favorite musical artist or band: The Weeknd.

Entrance music: “Nokia” by Drake.

Favorite candy or snack: Sweetarts Ropes.

Favorite restaurant: Texas Roadhouse.

No. 1 movie: Lilo & Stitch (2002).

Favorite sports team: University of Florida softball team.

Favorite exercise at the gym: Rows.

Something you think everyone loves but you hate: Flying.

Teammate that gets you most hyped: Ella Garcias.

Favorite place in the world: Virginia Beach.

Most irrational fear: Clowns.

Aly Laubach competed in field hockey, wrestling and softball for Freedom. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

Aly Laubach, Freedom

Freedom High School’s Aly Laubach has been playing sports for a long time.

Trying wrestling, however, changed her perspective.

“That mental toughness that I’ve inherited from wrestling helps. I always compare everything back to wrestling, because I think it’s definitely the toughest thing I’ve done in my entire life,” Laubach said. “... If I can wrestle, I can do anything.”

Grappling was the most recent addition to Laubach’s sporting résumé, which also features field hockey and softball.

“Each sport individually has benefitted each other and my life in general,” she said. “The skills that I’ve learned from wrestling and softball and field hockey, they all kind of intermesh. I think they make me a better overall athlete.”

Laubach, who will play field hockey at Mercyhurst University, has valued the chances to give back that athletics have granted.

“I take a lot of pride in what I do and helping the community. It’s great to see younger kids, that I’ve coached and done camps with, come out and support me … It makes me feel like what I’m doing is making an impact in other peoples’ lives, which is truly what I’m doing it for.”

The senior was grateful for Patriots field hockey coach Chelsea Quinn, who helped her navigate the recruiting process. Laubach also had the unique experience of having her mother, Michele, coach her in two varsity sports (wrestling and softball).

“She pushes me harder than anybody else does,” Laubach said. “I’m grateful for that.”

Laubach off the field (and mat)

If I’m not practicing, I’m: Sleeping.

Favorite school subject: English.

Favorite teacher: Mrs. Teresa Fox (early childhood education).

Sports idol: Jennie Finch.

College plans: Mercyhurst University (early childhood education).

Dream job: Travelling teacher.

Favorite TV or streaming show: Gilmore Girls.

Top social media platform: Instagram.

Favorite musical artist or band: Zach Bryan.

Entrance music: “Rock That Body” by Black Eyed Peas.

Favorite candy or snack: Sour Patch Kids.

Favorite restaurant: Machs Gute Pub and Grille (Bethlehem).

No. 1 movie: 10 Things I Hate About You.

Favorite pro sports team: Philadelphia Eagles and Philadelphia Phillies.

Favorite exercise at the gym: Squats.

Something you think everyone loves but you hate: Running.

Teammate that gets you most hyped: Siara Gonzalez.

Favorite place in the world: Myrtle Beach, S.C.

Most irrational fear: Spiders.

Katelynn Barthold participated in soccer, basketball and track and field for Northern Lehigh. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

Katelynn Barthold, Northern Lehigh

Katelynn Barthold was a multisport athlete for Northern Lehigh High School because, well, that’s what she’s always done.

“I started playing multiple sports when I was younger,” Barthold said. “I kind of just kept going with them and never stopped.”

The Bulldogs are glad she didn’t.

Barthold left a tremendous mark on the soccer, basketball and track and field programs at Northern Lehigh. She was an All-State selection in soccer after amassing 121 goals and 36 assists in her career. Reaching the 100-goal milestone was particularly special considering Barthold’s sister and Northern Lehigh’s goalie, Dekota, provided an unlikely assist on the strike.

Barthold was a scoring sensation during the winter, too. She hit the 1,000-point plateau as a senior and helped the Bulldogs reach the state tournament during her junior campaign.

The Northern Lehigh standout appreciated representing a smaller school, even if it meant that tiny roster sizes dictated she played a lot more minutes.

She put all that running to good use. The senior, who will continue her track career at Lafayette College, was the 800-meter champion at the Colonial League and District 11 Class 2A meets this spring.

Athletics provided Barthold a break from the rigors of academics in each season.

“It’s definitely an escape from school work,” Barthold said. “It’s just fun, because you’re making new friends and you get to socialize. Your coaches become a person you can always ask for help.”

Barthold off the field (and court, and track)

If I’m not practicing, I’m: Shopping.

Favorite school subject: Gym.

Favorite teacher: Mr. Scott Gerould (physical education).

Sports idol: Katelyn Tuohy.

College plans: Lafayette College (biochemistry on pre-med track).

Dream job: Anesthesiologist.

Favorite TV or streaming show: Grey’s Anatomy.

Top social media platform: TikTok.

Entrance music: “Shots” by LMFAO.

Favorite candy or snack: Nerds Gummy Clusters.

Favorite restaurant: Olive Garden.

No. 1 movie: Zootopia.

Favorite pro sports team: San Diego Wave FC.

Favorite exercise at the gym: Core workout.

Something you think everyone loves but you hate: Listening to music while running.

Teammate that gets you most hyped: Dekota Barthold.

Favorite place in the world: Walt Disney World.

Most irrational fear: Drowning.

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Kyle Craig may be reached at kcraig@lehighvalleylive.com.

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