Greene Central Trio Honored with Heart of a Champion Award

The Heart of a Champion Award honors student-athletes from NCHSAA member schools who have participated in at least one varsity sport or cheerleading and remained ejection-free throughout the school year. These individuals also demonstrate outstanding citizenship and sportsmanship in their communities. This year, the 2023-24 Heart of a Champion Award recognized 23 students from across the state, representing all classifications from 1A to 4A. Among these distinguished recipients, Greene Central High School proudly boasts three exemplary student-athletes.

Owen Dyer: A Model of Positivity and Perseverance

Owen Dyer, a standout cross-country runner from Greene Central, expressed his surprise and gratitude upon receiving the award. "I was so shocked when I received the reward! I truly believe all of the Ram athletes have hearts of champions so to be recognized it really meant the world to me! Over my four years at Greene Central, I tried so hard to be a team player while also trying to have a positive attitude and maintain a positive relationship with my mental health," Dyer shared.

Josiah Sheppard: A Testament to Dedication and Academic Excellence

Josiah Sheppard, who excels in wrestling, football, and track, sees the award as a reflection of his hard work and dedication. "To me, this award is much more than a trophy. It is a statement to the amount of time and effort I put into my sports. It is also a testament to my academic work and how my teachers and coaches have seen my efforts. This award means so much to me, and I am thankful for the opportunity to receive it," Sheppard remarked.

Brady Anderson: A Leader Both On and Off the Field

Brady Anderson, a cross-country runner and state champion left fielder in baseball, feels honored to receive the award, especially at the state level. "Winning this award is a huge honor, especially at the state level. I take pride in being a great teammate and always do what I can to try and be a leader. It’s great to be recognized for something so important to the success of the team," Anderson said.

Greene Central's success in having three of its athletes recognized among the 23 selected statewide underscores the school's commitment to fostering excellence in sportsmanship, citizenship, and athletic achievement. These students embody the true spirit of the Heart of a Champion Award, making their school and community proud.