Published on June 10, 2026 7:01 am
Last Updated on June 10, 2026 7:01 am
The Effingham Athletic Department runs an Athlete of the Month program each month. Athletes are nominated by head coaches and then voted on by all coaches. Winners receive recognition and a Treign Athlete of the Month shirt. Nomination criteria is as follows: Stats, Accomplishments, Character, Coachability, Leadership and Sportsmanship
Leah Ring- JH Track (7th Grade)
Leah has had an outstanding track and field season, demonstrating exceptional dedication, perseverance, and growth throughout the year. Her commitment to improvement has been evident through her hard work at practices and additional pole vault clinics, where she consistently pushed herself to reach new heights.
This season, Leah set the 7th-grade girls’ pole vault school record with a vault of 8 feet, ½ inch. Remarkably, she now holds both the 6th-grade and 7th-grade school records in the event. At sectionals, Leah achieved the state qualifying mark and earned a 4th-place finish, securing her spot at the state meet.
Determined to perform at her best, Leah dedicated herself to preparation in the week leading up to state. Her hard work paid off in a big way as she earned a 3rd-place finish, surpassing all three competitors who had finished ahead of her at sectionals.
We are incredibly proud of Leah and all she accomplished this season. Beyond her impressive pole vault achievement, she is a valued member of our team whose strong work ethic, positive attitude, and commitment to excellence make her a tremendous role model for her teammates. Leah’s success is a direct reflection of the effort and determination she brings every day. — Coach Nancy Ervin
Jayden Zellers – JH Track (7th Grade)
Jayden has demonstrated tremendous dedication and hard work throughout the entire track season. His versatility and commitment have made him a key contributor to the success of the 7th-grade boys team. Throughout the season, he competed in a variety of events, including the 400-meter dash, 100-meter dash, long jump, 4×200 relay, 4×400 relay, and sprint medley relay, consistently stepping up wherever the team needed him.
Jayden delivered an outstanding performance at sectionals, qualifying for the state meet in three events: the 400-meter dash, 4×200 relay, and 4×400 relay. He was the only boys athlete from EJHS to qualify for state in three events, a testament to both his talent and dedication. At the state meet, he helped lead the 4×400 relay team to an impressive 7th-place finish.
Beyond his accomplishments on the track, Jayden’s work ethic and determination set him apart. He consistently gives his best effort and serves as a positive example for his teammates. With his speed, athletic ability, and commitment to improvement, Jayden has an incredibly bright future ahead of him and is poised for continued success at both EJHS and EHS. — Coach Nancy Ervin