Vote on GMSD’s October Athlete of the Month for High School and Middle School

GMSD is excited to announce the October nominations for Athlete of the Month, presented by Alisha Dumas with State Farm. These nominations are based on athletic work ethic, attitude, and sportsmanship, but these student athletes are just that - students first, athletes second.  They must have good academic standing, maintain a good attendance record, and have a positive outlook towards their education and their community. Hear directly from their coaches about what makes them a great teammate, a hard worker, and a great athlete. Receiving a nomination is an honor in itself!

Each month the community will get to vote on which athlete they would like to see become the GMSD Athlete of the Month. There is a High School category and a Middle School category. Voting for these categories will be kept separate, so each month there will be an Athlete of the Month from the High School and the Middle School. The winners will be announced towards the end of each month. 

Here are the October High School nominees: 

Ella Beaver - Senior, Girls Soccer
“Ella has been a consistent presence on the Mustangs’ roster for multiple seasons, playing a pivotal role in her team’s defensive strength. Known for her composure and quick reflexes, she has made key saves in high-pressure game situations, helping Houston maintain its reputation as one of the strongest soccer programs in the region.” - Coach David Wolff, HHS Girls Soccer 

Bella Drotar - Senior, Girls Soccer
“Isabella has been on the Mustangs’ varsity roster for multiple seasons, consistently contributing as a forward. Her athletic resume includes key moments in high-stakes matches. In the 2024 State Championship game, she scored a goal for Houston against Bearden, helping propel her team to a title via penalty kicks after a tie in regulation. Isabella’s soccer journey traces back to her middle school days: she was part of the Houston Middle School girls’ squad that won a West Tennessee Sectional Championship.” - Coach David Wolff, HHS Girls Soccer 

Mackenzie Neely - Senior, Volleyball
“Mackenzie maintains a weighted 4.5 GPA and excels in all that she puts her mind to. She is one of the best teammates I have coached and always puts others first. She is athletic, artistic, and brilliant, which is a unique combination that not many people possess! ” - Coach Becky Pendleton, HHS Volleyball

Nora Newhouse - Senior, Cross Country 
“A captain and senior on the XC Team, Nora was the lead girl on the team at the highly competitive Wingfoot XC Classic in Cartersville, GA this past weekend. She consistently runs under 20:00 for the 5k, and will be a strong contender for a high place at regions and state for the girls' team.” - Coach Rachel Randall, HHS Cross Country 

Tyler Schmitt - Junior, Cross Country 
“Tyler is consistently a top finisher on the extremely talented boys team, and is a driver on their quest towards a top finish at state.  He is a cheerleader for every person on the team, and works hard every single day, in every single practice. The XC team would not be the same without Tyler, and his times are extremely impressive for a junior! ” - Coach Rachel Randall, HHS Cross Country 

Halle Signaigo - Junior, Volleyball
“Halle's smile lights up every room she walks into, bringing positivity and energy that uplifts her teammates both on and off the court. She leads by example with her supportive spirit, selflessness, and determination, making her not only an incredible athlete but also an exceptional teammate who inspires everyone around her.” - Coach Becky Pendleton, HHS Volleyball

Here are the October Middle School nominees: 

Charlotte Gwatney - 6th Grade, Houston Middle School, Cross Country
"Charlotte has made an immediate impact upon her arrival at Houston Middle School. She has quickly worked into our girl's team top 5 with consistent performances all season. She finished 4th at Sectionals and 4th at the Topper Hills Classic. Charlotte has a great work ethic and she is an excellent teammate." - Coach McNeil, HMS Cross Country

Charlie Lomax - 8th Grade, Riverdale, Cross Country
"Charlie works hard every practice, encourages his teammates and is a great leader on and off the course! We are proud of all that Charlie has accomplished!” - Coach McKinley, Riverdale Cross Country

Piper Olswing - 8th Grade, Houston Middle School, Girls Soccer
"Piper has proven to be both an outstanding soccer player both on and off the field. She is always ready to compete, fill any role/position on the field needed, and is always respectful of the coaching staff and her teammates. She is a fierce competitor yet remains calm and composed at all times. In addition to Houston Middle Soccer, Piper is a member of a local club soccer team that travels and competes at a high level and is also a member of the Houston Middle Cross Country team. Piper is able to maintain all A’s in the classroom while juggling both soccer teams and cross country team, making her a true role model for the younger student athletes in the program.” - Coach Percoski, HMS Girls Soccer

Isabel Schmitt - 8th Grade, Riverdale, Girls Soccer
"Isabel Schmitt has been a team leader during her entire Riverdale soccer career! Her skills are undeniable. Her hard work, passion, and determination are contagious and make everyone around her a better player. She has had a great final season at Riverdale through scoring, setting up her teammates, and making key plays on defense.” - Coach Crawford, Riverdale Girls Soccer

Katelyn Shleweet - 8th Grade, Houston Middle School, Tennis
"Kate has been the women's singles player for most matches this season.  She went undefeated in regular season play and led the team to win Houston's first District Championship.  Kate went 3-1 at the state tournament and led the team to the semifinal round.  Kate is a dedicated tennis player and leader on the team.” - Coach Windyke, HMS Tennis

Houston Wenzler - 7th Grade, Houston Middle School, Tennis
"Houston has been the men's singles player for most matches this year.  At the State Tournament this past weekend, He won all 4 of his matches leading the Team to a 3-1 record in their flight. Houston is a calm and collected Tennis player on the court and a great student to have in the classroom.” - Coach Windyke, HMS Tennis
 
Cast your vote for middle and high School athlete of the month! Voting is set to close on October 29, 2025 at 12:00pm CST.