Cobb Reporter

This week's honorees for the Cobb Schools’ Athlete of the Week program, which celebrates student-athletes excelling in sports, academics, and their communities, are from Pebblebrook and Sprayberry. The initiative is supported by BSN Sports.

Damian Phipps, a junior baseball player from Pebblebrook, demonstrated his talents in a recent game against South Cobb, hitting a home run and achieving four RBIs. Having played baseball since the age of three, Phipps is also a wide receiver for the Falcon football team. He participates in the Morehouse Upward Bound Program. Falcon Head Coach Anthony Robinson praised him, stating, "Damian is the kind of young man that any coach would love to have on his team; he is the true definition of a coach’s player," emphasizing his work ethic and leadership qualities.

Robinson further noted, "Beyond his impressive stats, Damian brings a positive attitude and unwavering commitment to every practice and game. He is the kind of student his teachers enjoy having in class. He is a de facto leader in and out of the classroom. His classmates and teammates have only positive things to say about him. Damian encourages other players on the team, and he is a great role model."

Sprayberry's senior lacrosse player, Mackenzie Moon, has scored 14 goals, two assists, and eight draw controls throughout her high school career. Known as a fierce competitor on the field, Moon is also a supportive figure among her peers. Her awards include the Team Mom Award, Ballistic Missile Award, and Coaches Award. Moon stands out for balancing her academics with athletics, holding leadership roles such as Beta Club Officer and PAC Leadership Team member. She is also involved in extracurricular activities including Chamber Orchestra, National Honor Society, Varsity Volleyball, and Pickleball.

Her coach, Marta Barbosa, highlighted her influence, stating, "Mackenzie is an excellent role model for our team. She shows up early, stays late, and always encourages her teammates to push harder. Her leadership on the field is unmatched."

Barbosa also noted, "She is motivated not just by her love for lacrosse but to be an example for the younger athletes. She often stays after practice to help new players develop their basic skills. Mackenzie embodies what it means to be a Sprayberry athlete—dedicated, hardworking, and a true leader both on and off the field."

Both students reflect the dedication and leadership celebrated by the program, serving as models of what it means to be standout student-athletes in Cobb.