By Harshitha Kothapalli – News Editor

Junior girls swimmer Ella Franzman and senior football player Joseph Nelly were named November’s Athletes of the Month. 

The award is given by the Jonathan Law Athletic Department and is sponsored by the Jonathan Law Sports Booster Club. 

Franzman swims in the fall, plays basketball in the winter, and plays softball in the spring. 

“I think I was nominated for student athlete of the month because as my swim coach said I had a very strong mid-season surge which helped me to qualify for states ahead of the postseason,” Franzman said. “My first two seasons on the team I had qualified for my state events during the SCC meets, so to qualify before that meet I was able to taper right before states.”

Nelly is the captain of Law’s football team. He said he was proud to win the award this month.

“I believe I made Athlete of the Month because I have been able to lead my team throughout practice and games and I strive to become a better athlete and leader every time I step on the field,” Nelly said. 

Each month, two student-athletes are given this honor.

“I think that someone who works hard and is dedicated to their sport and also someone who is a leader and shows good sportsmanship goes into being a good athlete,” Franzman said. “Also being able to maintain the grades to be able to compete on the team and be successful in the classroom fits the student portion. So being able to maintain both are qualities I see fit as an Athlete of the Month.”

Law football coach Chris Haley raved about Nelly’s drive and dedication to the team.

“JT should be the model all athletics programs at Law hold as their standard,” Haley said. “His maturity, trust, commitment to others before self, and understanding of the bigger picture made him a blessing to coach for four years.”

Swim coach Mr. Rosner said that Franzman continued to excel as the season went on. 

“November is when the post season is for girls swim and dive, and that is the time Ella shines,” Rosner said. “She had an unbelievable run throughout the post season, dropping time in every event, and playing a huge role for our relay teams.”

Nelly said there are several role models that inspire him to make a difference.

“My role model is Tommy DeVito because he was able to step up and take charge of the team while in the face of adversity,” Nelly said. 

Franzman said that Michael Phelps inspires her by the way he handles himself in and out of the pool.

“I would say Micheal Phelps has been such a big part of my sports journey as he’s a very decorated and successful Olympian swimmer,” Franzman said. “But his story of his mental health issues and obstacles he’s overcome has inspired me the most.”

Both athletes hope to pursue sports in their future whether it is club season or through a college team.