Amir Alston Strikes Gold: Ohio State Wexner Medical Center’s Athlete of the Week!

In a dazzling display of skill and determination, Amir Alston has bowled his way to the title of Ohio State Wexner Medical Center’s Athlete of the Week for the period of December 30 to January 5, amassing an impressive 5,900 votes in a competition that showcased some formidable talent. Alston’s prowess on the lanes reached new heights as he recorded a career-best series of 675—which breaks down to the impressive scores of 217, 244, and 214—placing him third in the Bellefontaine Classic, where he outshone all competitors from central Ohio.

With an average of 209 pins per game this season, Alston is no stranger to the podium—his performance at the Classic cemented his status as a formidable contender in high school bowling circles. The road to the Athlete of the Week title wasn’t an easy one, however. Alston faced stiff competition from fellow athletes, including Columbus Academy swimmer Lillian Bailey, who secured 25.2% of the votes, and Gahanna Lincoln’s hockey star, Sam Heckathorne, who garnered 23.2%. Another Gahanna Lincoln swimmer, Alexa Briseno, also made the list with 8.1%.

What’s particularly striking is how each athlete brought their A-game. Bailey not only conquered the 100 backstroke (1:02.12) but also triumphed in the 100 breaststroke (1:12.8), all while leading off the victorious 200 free relay in the Turn it Gold Invitational. Meanwhile, Heckathorne’s two goals in a nail-biting 2-1 victory over Thomas Worthington showcased his grit and determination. And let’s not forget the fierce competition that Briseno brought to the pool, edging out two-time defending Division II state champion Carrie Furbee by a mere tenth of a second in the 50-yard freestyle (24.29).

The Athlete of the Week voting process stands as a testament to the thrilling spirit of high school sports—fans and supporters rally behind their favorites, contributing to the community’s vibrant sports culture. Nominations for this accolade are collected every Monday morning, representing the fervor and dedication of the previous week’s competitions. Once the voting is live, it remains open until 4 p.m. on Fridays, allowing for an engaging week of competition among young athletes. It’s a dynamic environment where anyone can nominate an athlete by reaching out via email or tagging on X (formerly Twitter) at @BrianWhite13.

Let’s also recognize that once an athlete triumphs during the regular season, they’re out of the running for future ballots until the postseason—a smart move that keeps the competition fresh and exhilarating. Those who are yet to earn this prestigious recognition can be nominated as many times as needed, keeping the hope alive for emerging talents.

The excitement surrounding high school sports isn’t merely about the athletes’ skill; it embodies a community coming together to celebrate achievements and foster future stars. Whether on the bowling lanes or in the pool, these young athletes are not just competing—they’re creating memories, building friendships, and setting the stage for future endeavors. As the season progresses, one can’t help but marvel at the talent and tenacity that define these promising athletes.