The Journal Star has announced the nominees for the high school girls athlete of the week for the period of February 9-14, presented by CEFCU. Fans can vote for their preferred athlete at www.pjstar.com/sports until the poll closes at noon on Friday. The nominees showcase exceptional performances across various winter sports, reflecting the talent and dedication of these young athletes.
Saniyah Jones of the Peoria High basketball team earned the title of girls athlete of the week last week. The senior played a crucial role in helping the Indians achieve a perfect 3-0 record, while also reaching a significant career milestone. In a match against ROWVA/Williamsfield, Jones scored 18 points and secured eight rebounds, surpassing the 1,000-point mark in her varsity career. She followed this achievement with a double-double performance, contributing 12 points and 11 rebounds in a 53-25 victory over West Prairie. Jones capped off her week by scoring nine points in a 45-29 win against South Fulton in the Class 1A regional quarterfinal.
Another standout nominee is McLaughlin, who delivered impressive performances for her team. She set a program record with an unusual double-double that included 11 blocks and 13 rebounds in a commanding 72-46 win over Fieldcrest. McLaughlin also scored 12 points on February 9, leading Tremont to a 62-37 victory against Fisher, marking their first win since January 26.
In exciting wrestling news, Tibbs closed the regular season on a high note, scoring a game-high 34 points as the Class 3A top-ranked Panthers defeated Class 4A third-ranked Aurora Waubonsie Valley 71-58. This performance marked her 2,000th career point, adding to her remarkable achievements. Earlier in the week, she scored 15 points to help Washington secure a 57-37 win over Morton, clinching the Mid-Illini Conference title.
Another wrestler, Hedges, achieved a significant milestone by winning the 115-pound weight division at the sectional championship. Hedges secured her spot in the state finals after an 18-13 decision against Streator sophomore Laila Vaughn in the championship match. Her journey to the finals included a dominant 18-2 technical fall over Bloomington freshman Autumn Starr in the semifinals and a swift 55-second fall against LaSalle-Peru sophomore Emily Lowery in the quarterfinals.
Lastly, Sutton, another notable nominee, looks to cement her legacy as one of the few female wrestlers from East Peoria to medal at the state level. Despite a challenging 5-3 loss in the title match, she secured her spot in the state finals scheduled for February 27-28. Sutton’s path to the finals featured a decisive 2:52 pin over LaSalle-Peru freshman Audri Plut in the semifinals, alongside a quarterfinal victory that ended in a pin within 3:49 against Sterling sophomore Vivianna Torres.
Fans are encouraged to participate in the voting process by visiting the Journal Star’s sports page. For additional nominations, individuals can reach out via email at [email protected] or tag the Journal Star on social media.
This week’s nominees represent the best of high school athletics, highlighting the hard work and determination of young female athletes.
