JOSH TIBBETS, Granite: Few athletes have demonstrated perseverance quite like this senior.
During his first three years of varsity football, the Granite running back never experienced the joy of victory, but that didn't discourage him from coming back this year for one last try.
All his hard work was rewarded last weekend when Tibbets rushed for 231 yards and four touchdowns on 22 carries.
"He's a slasher. He'll break tackles and get the two yards you need," said Granite coach B.J. Hunter. "He's a tough kid."
Despite a winless year last year, Tibbets sill rushed for nearly 1,400 yards. This year, he's already on pace to eclipse those numbers.
The senior also plays basketball and soccer at Granite.
KORTNEY ROBINSON, Pleasant Grove: This junior outside hitter did something not a lot of college players have the mental strength to do in a high-pressure match last weekend.
In the title match of the Tournament of Champions, Robinson nailed eight jump serves, two for aces, in leading her team to a victory. The more impressive part was that all eight serves came when perennial power Morgan was at game-point.
"For a college player to make three or four jump serves in a row is impressive," said Vikings coach Mike Daniel of the 3.9 honor student, who is averaging 11 kills per match. "But eight at the high school level is unheard of. . . . And it was at game point, which takes tremendous focus."
Robinson spent the summer in the weight room, which improved her jump and strength.
To nominate a boy, contact James Edward at jedward@desnews.com. To nominate a girl, contact Amy Donaldson at adonaldson@desnews.com