Patch Star Student Athlete: Lily, Of Hasbrouck Heights

HASBROUCK HEIGHTS, NJ — We all know student athletes who also bring their A-game to other parts of their lives.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these heroes making a difference in their communities. We're working to let all your neighbors know the individual stories behind the leaderboard.

This submission comes from Joann Brown who nominated Lily — a Hasbrouck Heights 10th grader.

Star student athlete's name:

Lily

Star student athlete's home state:

New Jersey

Star student athlete's Patch town:

Hasbrouck Heights

How do you know the star student athlete?

She's my daughter.

What sport does the star student athlete play?

Soccer and track

Why do you believe the star student should be recognized?

I have witnessed firsthand my student athlete's hard work and dedication to her sport and academics alike. Lily has been playing soccer since kindergarten. At first, she did not have a choice, because we, as parents, made the decision. But as years went on, she personally decided to continue with soccer and now track. I, myself, was an all-around student athlete through high school and a "Who's Who Among Hispanic Student Athletes" in college. I expected Lily would excel naturally as well as athletically. However, that was not the case — Lily has had to work extra hard to make the team and to earn her playing time. What she may have lacked in skill, she made up for with a positive attitude and a commitment to always do her best. Coaches have always informed us that Lily is a "hard worker." As her mother, I could not be happier to hear such words. I tell Lily that natural talent is great, but that a good attitude, hard work and effort are equally valuable in sports and life. Lily continues to work hard in her sport and in academics. Many people assume Lily excels academically, because both of her parents are educators and teachers — but that is not the case. Lily is a blessing in that she is naturally independent and highly motivated as a student. She is an honor student and continues to set goals of excellence. As her mom, I could not be prouder. I am her No. 1 fan. All in all, Lily is a lovely, hard-working young lady who deserves to be recognized.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the star student athlete?

Lily has had to work for every shot and every position on and off the field, among a group of highly recognized people. She has lost and she has gained, yet, through it all, she has never given up and always continues to push forward with a positive and kind attitude. She is a champion's champion in that she understands her value to her team. She understands that the act of showing up to practice, games and school every day is her job; she wakes up every day ready to go without needing to be pushed. She has a champion's heart and is ready to perform every day.

Keep up the great work, Lily!

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Know an outstanding student athlete? Nominate them as a Patch Star Student Athlete.