February 2023 Elite Athletes of the Month
Elite Stone Supply, in conjunction with WBHF and Bartow Sports Zone, presents the ELITE ATHLETES OF THE MONTH. Each month, local high schools are provided the opportunity to name an Elite Athlete of the Month from their varsity programs and present the information on their honoree through Bartow Sports Zone and on 100.3FM and AM1450, WBHF in Cartersville.
The February 2023 Elite Athlete of the Month representing Cass High School is Zach McKnight.
A four-time state placer for the Colonels’ wrestling team, McKnight captured the Class 5A 165-pound weight class this season to cap his career. He was a state runner-up in 2022 and 2021. His freshman season in 2020, he placed sixth.
McKnight was 36-2 this season and did not lose to anyone in Georgia. His losses were to competitors from Kentucky and Florida. He completed his high school career with a 134-25 record.
Also a member of the varsity track and field team, McKnight is involved in multiple clubs and organizations at Cass High School. Academically, he is ranked 18th in his graduating class with a 4.0 GPA.
“Zach is a hard worker, self-motivated, and a very respectful young man,” said Colonels wrestling coach D.L. Koontz., “There is no doubt he will be successful in everything he does. It has been an honor to coach him throughout his career. He will be truly missed but his example will continue to shine in our program for years to come.”
NaXyria Roberts is the February 2023 Elite Athlete of the Month for Adairsville High School.
A sophomore member of the Lady Tigers’ softball and basketball teams, Roberts has been an integral part of the basketball team’s banner season.
A point guard and contributing defender and scorer, Roberts helped lead the Lady Tigers to the Class AAA State Playoffs and the Adairsville girls’ first state tournament win in 66 years, winning at Sandy Creek in the first round.
“NaXyria is a selfless team player who makes everyone around her better on and off the court,” stated Adairsville basketball coach Melissa Winters. “She works hard and is continually working to improve her skills and basketball IQ.”
The daughter of Raylee Roberts and Nameschicka Richards, she carries a 3.8 GPA taking Honors and Advanced Placement courses. Roberts plans to pursue a career in the medical field.
Woodland High School’s February 2022 Elite Athlete of the Month is Connor Stermer.
A junior shortstop and pitcher for the Wildcats’ baseball team, Stermer is the son of Danielle Stermer.
“Conner is a natural leader,” said Woodland baseball coach Todd Eubanks. “He comes to the field ready to work and leads his teammates by example. He seems to always have a smile and enjoys playing the game the right way.”
Stermer has been a team leader and was selected preseason All Region 7-5A by Georgia Dugout Club.
He has a 3.8 GPA.
Annaston Wilson represents Cartersville High School as the Elite Athlete of the Month for February 2023.
A senior, Wilson is a member of the Hurricanes’ competition cheerleading team, football sideline cheerleading squad, Game Day competition team, and varsity gymnastics team.
She is a base and a tumbler with the cheer squads that were competition region champions all four of her seasons and state runner-up in 2022. Individually, she was selected All-Region in 2022.
“Annaston is a coach’s dream,” declared Cartersville football cheer, competition cheer, and Game Day competition coach Cissi Adams. “She is dedicated and disciplined. She leads by example and motivates those around her to be and do their best. Annaston never made excuses, she makes adjustments. Her leadership will be greatly missed.”
The daughter of Haley and Andrew Wilson, Annaston is a Beta Club, National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and is a Tri-Athlete.
She plans to attend Jacksonville State University.
Editors Note: Photos and bios are supplied to Bartow Sports Zone and WBHF by the respective schools and their athletic departments. Elite Stone Supply Co., LLC is the monthly sponsor. Athletes receive a plaque along with recognition during a radio feature on WBHF.
