Cobb Reporter

Cobb Schools' Athlete of the Week program continues to spotlight outstanding student-athletes excelling in sports, academics, and community involvement. This initiative is supported by BSN Sports.

This week's honorees are Vithaal Dhamodharan from Kennesaw Mountain and Ellis Crawford from Pope. Dhamodharan represents the Mustangs in E-sports, while Crawford plays as a middle hitter for the Greyhounds.

Vithaal Dhamodharan has been instrumental in securing the Mustang E-sports team's first win with 24 goals in two Rocket League matches. Besides his contributions to E-sports, he is involved in various clubs such as Programming Club, NHS, INTERACT Club, Astronomy Club, and Mane Link at KMHS. Head Coach Suzanne Manahan praised him: "Vithaal is a senior magnet student here and has played several important roles in our E-sports program." She added that his team spirit extends beyond scoring goals: "Vithaal is a great example of a team player!"

Ellis Crawford has been pivotal for Pope Volleyball's success. The Greyhounds recently claimed their third state championship in eight seasons with her leading performance. In crucial matches against Milton and Glynn Academy, she delivered significant blocks and kills. Her coach Katherine Kirian remarked on her high school career: "She has had quite an impressive high school career." Kirian highlighted her leadership qualities: "Her teammates respect her for sure, which is why they chose her as a captain this season."

Pope Athletic Director Josh Mathews also commended Crawford's influence: "She epitomizes what we want in our Pope student-athletes: excellence on the court, in the classroom, in the community, and overall as a person!"

Congratulations are extended to both athletes for their remarkable achievements.