This is the last in a series of Prep Talk Graduation '09 blogs featuring area WIAA Scholar-Athletes and the essays they wrote as part of the consideration process for the WIAA's highest academic award.

JARED ABBREDERIS, Wautoma

Sports: Football (9, 10, 11, 12); Wrestling (9, 11); Track and field (9, 10, 11, 12).

GPA: 3.94.

Class Rank: 10th of 91.

Other extra-curricular activities: National Honor Society.

Civic & community activities:  Fellowship of Christian Athletes; Youth group student leader; Youth football coach; Assisted elderly with yardwork.

ESSAY

The desire being a competitor is something I have been enjoying my entire life. Participating in athletics has driven me to succeed not only in sports, but in everyday activities as well. It has taught me many valuable life lessons, and has prepared me well for the future. Athletics have developed me into a premier scholar athlete. Not only am I successful in sports, I have great grades as well. I have learned to balance activities I love participating in, and more important parts of life such as church, family, and school. In the future, I hope to participate in athletics as well as earn a college degree. I believe I am prepared to handle both and succeed at the highest level, because of my participation in sports. I have also been developing into a great person. Being a hard worker is the most important thing I have learned. No matter the task at hand, I know I can accomplish it if I put my mind to it! Also, having a good attitude is something that coaches preach. Win or lose, I will respect my opponent for the time and effort he has put in. I believe athletics is the main reason I am successful in the activities I participate in. The values I have learned are used in everyday situations. Through athletics, I have become a better person, and I believe I am better equipped to face the world.

-- Jared Abbrederis, Wautoma HS, Class of 2009