Oswego East Student Athlete of the Week: Nicholas Goduto

Oswego East boys cross country coach recognized senior Nicholas Goduto as this week's student athlete of the week. Coach James Milner feels Nico is a stellar example for younger runners and displays the core values of EAST (Excellence, Academics, Spirit, and Tradition) in all aspects of his life.

Goduto’s journey in sports began with baseball, football, and soccer, but he eventually found his passion in running. Since then, he has been a standout performer for the East cross country and track teams, earning five All-Conference titles and qualifying for State twice. Despite being an integral part of the state qualifying East cross country team since his sophomore year, Coach Milner believes that Goduto’s character is the main reason for being our EAST athlete of the week.

“Nico is a model student-athlete who our younger athletes are very fortunate to have,” Milner said. “He excels at setting goals and working hard to accomplish them.”

The way that Nico approaches his athletic goals gives the younger athletes in the program a roadmap for success throughout high school. This is something that Nico embraces as he tends to focus his efforts on his teammates and their team’s goals for the season.

“I like to be able to run with my teammates and push them,”Goduto said. “A team goal we are set on for this year is to qualify for State.”

His parents, Josephine and Christopher Goduto, also highlighted that his dedication extends much further than merely athletic success, but also into academic and career goals. The same way he pushes his teammates to succeed he pushes himself even further in his individual goals.

“Nico has always been a hardworking student. He thrives on learning new information and loves applying these skills in all that he does,” his parents said. “It has been a joy to watch him grow and mature during his high school years. We are excited to see what he will accomplish in the years to come.”

While Goduto is still deciding on where to attend college, he plans to study pre-med and continue his journey toward medical school. He is also weighing whether to run competitively at the collegiate level, as he’s currently in discussions with several coaches.

“I’ve been interested in the medical field since I was a kid,” Goduto said. “What inspired me most about pursuing this path is the opportunity to help people and make a difference in the world.”

Making a difference is a common theme for Nico across all aspects of his life. From helping his teammates, to spending time with friends and helping classmates, he is always trying to help others grow. Goduto’s dedication to inspiring those around him will surely leave a lasting legacy at Oswego East. After graduation in May, he will take all of the lessons learned in high school to achieve his ultimate goal of making a difference in the world.

“We are so proud of everything Nico has accomplished,” his parents said. “It’s been an honor to watch him grow into the strong, intelligent, and responsible young man he is today.”

*This story was written and published by East senior Jordan Fikis.