Pictured are two varsity athletes of the month, chosen by the coaches, displaying their medals

Lucas Trombley - Varsity Basketball

The Peck High School Athletic Department recognizes senior Lucas Trombley as December’s Athlete of the Month, celebrating his composure, leadership and performance on the basketball court.

Trombley, a forward who has been playing the game for five years, has become a vital presence for the Pirates. Trombley expressed deep appreciation for the recognition. “It is a big honor being named Peck’s Athlete of the Month,” Trombley stated regarding the award, “It feels good to represent my school this way.”

A defining moment for Trombley so far this season was the intense victory at the Marlette Holiday Tournament. The game pushed the team to its limits, stretching into double overtime. Trombley noted that as the game progressed, the energy within the team continued to build, describing the overtime period as a “very special” experience that brought them together for the win.

When the pressure rises, Trombley relies on a focused mindset and his teammates. To handle high-stake moments, he chooses to “zone everything out” and lean on his teammates to stay calm. He attributes much of his success to this mutual support system. Trombley emphasizes the importance of high energy and cheering each other on saying, “We work to make the player across from you better.”

Trombley also credited his coaches for teaching him the value of composure this season. The most important lesson he has learned is to stay patient. “Shots will come,” he shared, noting the importance of waiting for the game to come to him rather than forcing the play.

For younger athletes in the Peck program, Trombley’s advice is rooted in grit: “hard work beats talent.” It is a philosophy that he carries into every game, especially when playing in front of his favorite crowd. Trombley noted that the best part of competing on his home court is the student section and the incredible energy they bring to the atmosphere.

Congratulations to Lucas Trombley on being named December’s Athlete of the Month.

Hailey VanConant - Powerlifting

The Peck High School Athletic Department recognizes freshman Hailey VanConant as December Athlete of the Month, celebrating her remarkable progress and dedication as she prepares for the upcoming powerlifting season.

VanConant, a 9th grade student-athlete entering her first season of powerlifting, has already made a significant impact by improving her total weight lifted exponentially at last month’s lift-a-thon. Coach K noted her potential, stating, “She’s going to do big things this powerlifting season!” Regarding the award, VanConant expressed her surprise and enthusiasm. “It’s exciting, I didn’t expect the honor,” she stated.

To prepare for her debut season, VanConant has focused heavily on the technical side of the sport, working especially hard on her form. This preparation paid off at the recent lift-a-thon, where she says she, "performed better than expected and set new personal records." Looking ahead, she is most excited about the social aspect of the sport and meeting new people throughout the season.

VanConant attributes her early success to the positive environment fostered by her teammates. She describes them as incredibly supportive, noting they lift her up while providing constructive criticism necessary for improvement. Additionally, she credited her coach with teaching her the importance of recovery and balance, specifically the lesson that “taking breaks is beneficial” for long-term progress. 

For younger athletes in the Peck program, VanConant’s advice centers on resilience: “keep your head up and don’t give up.” It is a mindset she has clearly embraced as she begins her journey in the powerlifting program.

Congratulations to Hailey VanConant on being named December’s Athlete of the Month.