Cobb Reporter

Cobb Schools’ Athlete of the Week program recognizes outstanding male and female student-athletes who excel in their sports, academics, and school communities. Supported by BSN Sports, this week’s winners hail from Lassiter and Pope schools.

Raef Jollands, a freshman swimmer for the Trojans at Lassiter High School, has made significant strides despite being new to his team. He qualified for state competitions in the 500 freestyle and 100 backstroke at the Walton Amazing Grace Invitational, finishing first and second respectively. Additionally, he contributed to his team's performance in relay events after participating in a morning club swim meet. Raef is also involved with Lassiter's Mountain Biking Team and STEM Engineering program.

"Raef came to Lassiter with a smile and a great attitude, ready to race and connect with his new high school teammates," said his coach Brittany Hughes. "He has been a part of Swim and Dive for only a month but has participated in all team activities so far and has qualified for state in 4 different individual events."

Coach Hughes emphasized Raef's popularity among peers: "He is very well-liked and respected by teammates, classmates, and teachers. Raef is already proving to be a huge asset."

Josie Hutchinson from Pope High School is excelling as a junior cross-country runner. She recently secured the 5A Girls Cross Country title at Carrollton with a time of 19:15.40, leading her team to victory with an impressive score of 29 against McIntosh's 152. Her achievements extend beyond cross-country; she also plays lacrosse and runs track.

"Josie leads by example, and others follow because she is such a GREAT person as well as an athlete," said her coach Cathi Monk. "She has the 'IT' factor when it comes to athletics."

Pope Athletic Director Josh Mathews added praise: "She is the epitome of a Pope Greyhound... Her drive to achieve excellence is supreme."

Both athletes have demonstrated remarkable dedication to their sports while maintaining strong academic performances.