Athlete of the Quarter Winners

Natalie Tsai is a standout student-athlete at Chamblee High School, where she serves as the setter and captain of the varsity volleyball team. A four-year starter, Natalie has helped lead her team to the Sweet 16 each season. She has accumulated 2,647 career assists and recorded 140 aces in her senior year alone, after leading the nation in aces as a sophomore. With a 4.2 GPA, Natalie balances academic excellence with athletic achievement. She is a two-time GVCA All-Star, All-Region and All-County selection, and an AVCA All-American. Natalie also competes with a high-level national club team and is known for her unmatched dedication and time spent training in the gym. She will continue her volleyball career on scholarship at the University of Pennsylvania.

William Cole Johnson is an exceptional student-athlete at Oconee County High School, maintaining a 4.0 GPA while excelling on the baseball field. A versatile outfielder and pitcher, William is a 2024 Georgia Dugout Club All-State selection and earned All-Region honors in AAA Region 8. He helped lead his team to back-to-back Final Four appearances in 2023 and 2024, as well as an Elite Eight finish in 2024. A committed University of Georgia signee, William is recognized not only for his talent, but also for his relentless work ethic, positive attitude, and dedication to his teammates. He is known as one of the hardest-working and most uplifting players on and off the field, a young man who truly loves life and inspires those around him.

Mariya Shields is a standout senior and team leader for the Southwest DeKalb High School girls’ basketball team. The only senior on a young squad, Mariya embraced her leadership role, guiding her teammates both on and off the court. She helped lead her team to an undefeated 12-0 record against DeKalb County opponents and a top-three finish in the region. The team earned a spot in the state playoffs during her senior year. Mariya played on the varsity team all four years of high school. In the first round of the 2025 AAAA State Playoffs, she recorded a double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds. She earned 5-AAAA Second Team All-Region honors and ranked in DeKalb County’s Top 25 for both rebounding and free throw percentage in 2025. Her leadership, consistency, and commitment have made a lasting impact on her team and school community.

Thomas Hill is a four-year varsity starter and captain of the Eastside High School men’s soccer team. A dedicated student-athlete with a 4.0 GPA, Thomas leads one of the top-ranked programs in the state, guiding his team to an undefeated season and a #7 ranking. Known for his exceptional leadership on and off the field, Thomas sets the standard with his work ethic, discipline, and commitment to excellence. His influence extends beyond the game, making a lasting impact on his teammates, school, and community.

Venolia Morris is a standout student-athlete at Southwest Dekalb High School, where she serves as co-captain of the lacrosse team. A former newcomer to the sport, she has become a force in the midfield position and was named Most Improved Player. As a leader, she ensures her teammates follow the coach’s instructions, arrive on time to practice, and stay focused. Venolia balances her athletic role with academic excellence, holding a 3.9 GPA and earning titles such as AP Scholar, Georgia Merit Scholar, and National Honor Society member. She also serves as NJROTC Battalion Commander and plans to major in pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences.

Curtis Duren is a varsity wrestler at Social Circle High School, competing in the 138-pound weight class. A three-time GHSA state wrestling champion (2023, 2024, and 2025), Curtis has played a vital role in leading his team to four overall state championships. With a 3.0 GPA, he excels not only on the mat but also as a student leader. Curtis actively participates in the school’s adaptive PE class and volunteers with Special Olympics, demonstrating a heart for service and inclusion. Known for his strong character and leadership, Curtis plans to pursue a career as a high school special education teacher and wrestling coach, continuing to inspire others both in and out of the classroom.