Girls HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETES OF THE WEEK
Boys
Matthew Riedel, Stratford
Notable: The sophomore golfer secured the Region II-6A individual title and a berth in the UIL state tournament. Riedel carded an even-par 72 in round 1 and fired a 4-under 68 with seven birdies while battling 30 mph winds in round 2 at Cottonwood Creek in Waco.
What coach Tim Johnson said: “Matthew is playing at a very high level right now. It was one of the most impressive performances in adverse conditions I have ever witnessed.”
Other nominees
Nathaniel McRae, Oak Ridge: The sophomore grabbed gold medals in the 400 meters, finishing in 47.75 seconds, and the 400 and 1,600 relays at the Region II-6A meet in Waco.
Avery Sheldon, Humble: The senior pitcher held Porter to one hit and had an RBI double in a 3-0 complete-game win, helping his team clinch a playoff berth.
Damin Strydom, Kingwood: The freshman golfer won the Region III-6A individual title with a two-day 139 at Eagle Pointe, helping the Mustangs secure a spot at the state tourney. Julia Heymach, Lamar
Notable: The Stanford signee won the 800 meters (2:11.81), 1,600 meters (5:00.14) and 3,200 (10:56.07) at the Region III-6A meet Saturday.
What Heymach said: “My coaches are really smart in the way they’ve been gearing me up to peak for state. That’s been effective, and I can definitely trust the process and know that I am going to be in my best shape.” Other nominees
Riley Cross, Tomball: The junior beat her closest shot put competition by more than a foot with a put of 41 feet, 7 inches, at the Region III-5A meet.
Madison Nelson, Deer Park: The senior struck out nine in six innings in throwing a twohitter in a 10-0 playoff victory over Goose Creek Memorial.
Macie Pampell, Atascocita: The junior went 3-for-4 in an 8-4 playoff win over Dobie.