National and World Editor
Stepping into new territory, freshman Stella Kanter is starting off her time at Los Gatos High School by earning a varsity spot on the volleyball team, achieving academic success, and learning to balance the demands of each.
Recently Kanter she claimed a place on the Los Gatos High School Girls’ Varsity Volleyball team as an outside hitter. Last year, Kanter was on Vision Volleyball’s 14 Gold team, which placed 11th at the Dallas Girls’ Junior National Championships. As an important asset to her team, Kanter excelled in many positions thanks to her versatile talent playing the outside, middle, and opposite hitter positions.
Kanter began her track and field career in seventh grade, yet in eighth grade, she discovered high jump and long jump as a career path she could envision herself in. Even though her track events will not begin until spring, Kanter cross-trains to improve her vertical jump in addition to other events. As she continues to set goals, Kanter wishes to reach school, county, and state records during her career at LGHS. This upcoming track season, Kanter plans on competing in high jump, long jump, and the 200-meter race. Previously, she reached 5’2” in high jump—currently tied for first in the state for her age group—and 15’10” for long jump.
As a dual sport athlete, Kanter strives to commit to track and field, while also aiming for a college that supports her academic and athletic aspirations. Kanter commented on how she realizes that she has to remain at her top fitness level for her athletic future while also balancing her academics, knowing how to build a strong foundation for her path. Kanter explained how she ultimately chose a track and field athletic career: “My coaches [in volleyball] always called me undersized, or told me how short I was compared to other athletes. They never really cared how high I jumped. But then I really liked high jump because it brought out a skill that they always overlooked.” Kanter further remarked on how her height was always a setback in volleyball. In track, she no longer is defined by her height, but rather her strength in vertical jumps.
Kanter is also involved and currently sponsored by IGYB a female ran organization, which stands for ‘I Got Your Back,’ supporting individuals in sports. Engrossing herself in a wide range of extracurriculars such as IGYB, Kanter dives into Algebra II Accelerated, Multimedia Journalism, Spanish II, Health & Fitness, English 9, and Biology with dedication and focus. As a career path, Kanter hopes to pursue a profession in journalism because of her passion for creative writing and interest in social issues.
Kanter approaches her freshman year with utmost dedication and drive, leaving lasting impressions and impacts through her academic and athletic endeavors. Her quick adaptability has earned her admiration across campus for her perseverance and positive attitude.
Categories: People