5 Super Athletes With Ties To Manhattan

Sports have a way of teaching invaluable life lessons — building character, fostering teamwork and strengthening the bonds within a community. In the Manhattan area, these values have shaped some truly remarkable athletes from different eras, whose accomplishments continue to inspire.

Patch has teamed up with T-Mobile to spotlight five standout athletes whose achievements have left a lasting mark on our community. While this list is just a snapshot, there are countless others who have helped shape the rich sports culture in our area.

1. Nick Allegretti (Football)

Nick Allegretti, a Lincoln-Way East High School alumnus, is a three-time Super Bowl champion and a professional football guard for the Washington Commanders. A two-sport star in high school, he excelled in football and wrestling before becoming a key player at the University of Illinois. Drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2019, Allegretti played a pivotal role in multiple championship runs.

2. Nate Davis (Baseball)

Manhattan native Nate Davis had a collegiate baseball career that showcased his perseverance and dedication. This left-handed pitcher played at Triton College, the University of Illinois-Chicago and Illinois State University. While at Illinois State, he recorded a 5.14 ERA in the 2022 season and contributed to his team’s conference tournament efforts.

3. Zaven Johnson (Track & Field)

Zaven Johnson, a promising middle school track athlete from Manhattan, has already made waves by running one of the fastest times nationally for his age group. As the son of renowned coach Octavius Johnson, Zaven benefits from high expectations and a supportive family that drives him to excel. Known for his humility and work ethic, Zaven is eagerly anticipating high school competition, where he aims to continue building on his record-breaking potential.

4. Paige DeBella (Bowling)

Paige DeBella, a standout bowler from Lincoln-Way West High School, Class of 2026, is already making a name for herself. Leading her team to a second-place finish at the Rock & Roll Invite, DeBella bowled an impressive 1,143 series with a 190.5 average. Her performance highlights her consistency and potential as a key contributor to her team’s success.

5. Alyssa Goodman (Cheerleading)

Alyssa Goodman, a 2021 graduate of Lincoln-Way East High School, achieved remarkable success in competitive cheerleading. Named USA Today Illinois Cheerleading Athlete of the Year as a senior, Goodman also helped her team secure multiple IHSA Large Team state titles. Her dedication to teamwork and passion for the sport made her an inspirational figure in Lincoln-Way East’s storied program.

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