Akron Central names Athletes of the Week

The Akron Tigersharks completed their second week of competition.  Selected Tiger Athletes of the Week are Zander Borton from the boys’ swim team and Rachel PeQueen from the girls’ swim team.

Borton, a sophomore, excels as a distance swimmer, usually swimming the 200 Freestyle and 500 Freestyle and usually earning a first or second place.  He also swims a leg of the 200 and 400 Freestyle Relays.

 “Zander is a hard worker in the pool,” said Coach Danielle Dembrow.  “He is just beginning to realize his ability as a swimmer and his true potential! Zander has been challenged in practice and has stepped up at the opportunity to succeed at a higher level of difficulty. Coach Mark Fragale and I are excited to see what Zander accomplishes moving forward this season and the two years that follow.  Congratulations, Zander!”

Also selected Athlete of the Week is senior team captain Rachel PeQueen. A sprinter, PeQueen’s personal best this season in the 50 Freestyle is :27.14 and 1:01.1 for the 100 Freestyle and she remains undefeated so far this season. She’s also swims a leg of two relays most meets and is willing to swim the 200 Freestyle or 100 Breaststroke when asked.

Rachel accomplishes any set in practice with grace and success, though she may be nervous at first, according to Coach Dembrow.  She is quick off the blocks and turns, too. After each race and during every practice, Rachel looks for critiques to help better her stroke and better her times.

As her coach the past couple of years, I have had the opportunity to watch Rachel grow not only as an athlete, but also as a young lady,” remarked Coach Dembrow.  “She has become a very responsible leader to the whole team. It has been a pleasure to coach Rachel and I look forward to seeing where this unique season will take her. Great job!”

While no spectators are allowed in the natatorium due to COVID-19, the swim meets are streamed live from the school’s YouTube channel, so there’s no reason to miss the action.  The link to the meets is found at www.akronschools.org/athletics.  Parents, family members, friends and ACS supporters can subscribe to the channel and also get live results as swimmers from each team compete against the clock in their home pools.

The boys varsity and JV basketball teams began competing this week, too; schedules can be found on the school’s website.