News: LaVilla Roma Restaurant and Pizzeria Steps Up to Support Heritage's Athlete of the Month Program

Leesburg (Feb. 4, 2010) - The Heritage High School athletic department has had an “Athlete of the Month” for the past three years but, due to the sluggish economy, the Pride decided not to approach companies for donations for the 2009-2010 school year.

The program recognized top performers in each sport once a month. The chosen athletes were given a gift certificate as a reward for their dedication and hard work to their team. In the past, these gift certificates have been graciously donated by many businesses in the Leesburg area.

Last month La Villa Roma Restaurant and Pizzeria of Leesburg contacted the athletic department to inquire about the program. It was explained to the owners that the program was discontinued; at that time they graciously volunteered to sponsor of the “Athlete of the Month” program for the remainder of the school year.

They stated “We really like the {Athlete of the Month} program and would like to see it continue for the athletes.”



Thanks to the owners’ generous support, despite these tough economic times, the Heritage Athletic Department will be reinstating the “Athlete of the Month” program in January 2010! La Villa Roma unwaveringly continues to show their "Pride" in Heritage Athletics!

LA VILLA ROMA - "ATHLETE OF THE MONTH"
JANUARY 15, 2010

It is with great pleasure that the Athletic Department along with LA VILLA ROMA of Leesburg announce this month athletes to be recognized in our new "Athlete of the Month" program. The following people are being recognized for their positive efforts in Heritage Athletics. These athletes will receive a gift certificate from this month’s sponsor for their hard work and dedication towards their sport. Congratulations!

WRESTLING – BILLY WISMAN

“Billy has shown great leadership throughout this year. He finished 5th at the NOVA Classic, 1st at Millbrook Invitational, and Undefeated at the Broad Run Duals. His current record 20-4.” Coach Hanselman

CHEER – MACKENIZE BUCHER

“Mackenzie is a dynamic cheerleader. She is always willing to help the younger members of the squad. She contributes a lot to practice and preparing half time performances. She is always looking for ways to improve the squad. Her behavior and attitude for itself.” Coach Smith

GIRLS BASKETBALL – ERIKA GRABBI

“Erika is averaging 13 pts and 4 rebounds per game. Her season high was vs. Loudoun county where she had 18 points. She is shooting 40% from the floor. She maintains a 4.0 GPA.” Coach Long

BOYS BASKETBALL – ELIJAH CALHOUN

“Elijah has been our leading scorer averaging 15 pts. Per game. He also personifies leadership for the basketball program for the last two years. His level of commitment to becoming better on the court and in the classroom is noteworthy and something that every athlete at Heritage should strive to minor.” Coach Grimes

GIRLS SWIMMING – KAILEIGH ROSENBERG

“She has been a key to the swim teams success in meets. She has qualified for the State Championship meet in one individual event.” Coach Touve

BOYS SWIMMING – GEOFFREY WRIGHT

“He has been a key to the swim teams success in meets. He has qualified for the State Championship meet in one individual event and has set the school record in the 50 free.” Coach Touve

GYMNASTICS – NINA PENDER

“ Nina is a consistent hard worker. She is a team captain and will try new skills and events willingly.”
Coach Aubel

We would like to congratulate these young people on their accomplishments and wish them continued success in their seasons. We would also like to thank LA VILLA ROMA of Leesburg for their support of this program.