Star Student Athlete: Summit's Leon Shines Off The Track, Too

SUMMIT, 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 J Sarkissian who nominated Leon of Summit.

Star student athlete’s name

Leon

Star student athlete’s home state

New Jersey

Star student athlete’s Patch town

Summit

How do you know the star student athlete?

My son

What sport does the star student athlete play?

Cross Country

Why do you believe the star student athlete should be recognized?

He has started XC running only last year and was able to make Varisty in 2021 and again in 2022. He trains hard in the heat of FL during the summer and is always trying to improve with each practice and competition - setting new PR’s. He is a team player and always strives to do his best for the team at Newark Academy.

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

He loves to mix his love of XC with his constant need to help others. As a result, he thrives on running 5K races outside of school setting that bring awareness to local organizations and community. For example, he placed 2nd in the Bridges Outreach 5K recently held in Summit and take home 1st place in the July 4th Firecracker 5K in Naples FL for his age bracket.

Keep up the great work, Leon!

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