By Bridget Letukas
Phillylacrosse.com, Posted 3/27/09
While she may only be thinking about following in her parents’ footsteps by studying medicine next fall, Jenkintown senior Anika Ross has decisively followed their example.
“They’re both doctors, and they’re both hard-working and dedicated,” Ross
said.
It seems the good doctors have given a strong dose of that work ethic to their daughter, a standout attack wing and Honor Society student who is accomplished both on the lacrosse field and off.
Last fall, Ross’ industrious spirit earned her academic recognition from the National Field Hockey Coaches Association and the United States’ official body as well. Ross also has been hauling double time in her capacity as treasurer for not just one, but two, school organizations – as Class Officer, and as a member of the Spanish Society. In addition, she boasts a 3.75 GPA and has found time to volunteer as a member of ACLAMO, a group that helps disadvantaged Latino families.
To Ross, the Longstreth Female Scholar-Athlete of the Week, the experience is anything but work. At Christmas, she enjoyed helping bring gifts to Latino youth in the Norristown area.
“It was cool to see their reaction,” she says of the young children benefiting from the efforts of her and her classmates.
Ross’ interest in the Spanish culture has led her to the country of Spain. She went there Thursday as part of the Children’s International Summer Village program and is currently staying with a host family for two weeks.
Ross, who has previously traveled to Denmark and England as part of the Summer Village program, is looking forward to completing a strong season with her teammates.
The Drakes have started the year with a 2-0 mark.
“I feel good about the team,” she said. “We have a lot of potential for success, and the coaching staff has been very supportive.”
While Ross’ temporary absence may be a tough pill for the Drakes to swallow, the scholar-athlete is grateful for the long-lasting effects produced from her lacrosse experience.
“I definitely learned dedication, and just putting aside differences for a common goal,” Ross said.
To learn more about the ACLAMO, visit www.aclamo.org
To nominate a lacrosse scholar-athlete for our website, please send your nomination to golax@phillylacrosse.com
