September 2012 Athlete of the Month: Grace Connolly

Grace Connolly

Spain Park High School

Senior

Cross Country, Soccer

Spain Park High School’s Grace Connolly is our September Athlete of the Month. Grace was chosen for this year’s All Star team in addition to winning the Spain Park Scholastic Award for the 2012 season. She qualified for state as an individual in cross country in 2009, was named as an honorable mention for the All Metro soccer team in 2012, and was a member of Spain Park’s two state championship-winning girl’s soccer teams.

How long have you been involved in cross country and soccer?

I have run cross country since seventh grade and have played soccer for the past 13 years. I am currently a center defender.

What is the best thing about being part of Spain Park’s teams?

The best part is that you are playing for programs that have a legacy of greatness. The success of previous teams encourages healthy competition and expects you to play at the highest level of your ability.

Who has been your biggest inspiration?

The runners I coach at Greystone Elementary are my biggest inspiration. Through the creation of the Jag Running Club, I have experienced the positive benefits of early athletic activity, and their enthusiasm and active participation inspire me to continue to be a positive role model.

What other activities are you involved in at Spain Park?

I am a TNT leader, a senior class officer and on the Relay for Life committee. I am a member of the National Honor Society as well as the math and Latin honor societies.

What cause are you passionate about?

I am passionate about the prevention of childhood obesity. I created the Jag Running Club at Greystone Elementary in an effort to combat childhood obesity by getting children more active.

What are your future college/career aspirations?

I plan to attend college and major in international business with the aspiration to become a CEO.

Tell us about your family. Do you have siblings involved with sports?

I have an older sister who was an All State lacrosse player for Spain Park and now attends the University of Georgia.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time I enjoy visiting my physical therapist and chiropractor. We have become very close over the past year.