Local athletes awarded NMAA scholarships

Eastern New Mexico was represented well by this year’s senior classes as five local athletes recently received NMAA (New Mexico Activities Association) scholarships.

According to a press release from the NMAA, “Approximately 200 students were nominated or submitted applications, with a total of $51,500 being distributed through 45 different scholarships. There were 17 scholarship categories, with one being the special Together We Rise Scholarship that was created in 2020-2021 due to the challenges brought forth by the COVID-19 pandemic and in an effort to support even more kids during these difficult times.”

Alyana Cordova, a senior at Clovis High School and Fredrick York, a senior at Fort Sumner High School both received the Activities Scholarship for $1,000.

York, who is an active BPA (Business Professionals of America) member competes on the Economic Research team and in the Extemporaneous Speech contest. His advisor, Kathy Craig said he is an extremely deserving candidate for this scholarship because of his drive to accomplish something when he sets his mind to it.

“He’s very enthused about BPA. He fires up the students around him,” she said.

Park Strong, a senior at Logan High School, and Melrose senior Lacy Lesly won the Together We Rise Scholarship for $1,000.

Strong is a multi-sport athlete, playing every sport Logan has to offer. Those sports include: football, basketball, baseball, power-lifting, and track and field. Logan Athletic Director, Billy Burns, said Strong is an all-around great kid. “A yes sir, no sir kind of kid” he said.

Burns added that his high GPA and contribution on three state championship teams is what made him a great candidate for the scholarship.

Lesly of Melrose, also a multisport athlete, plays volleyball, basketball, and track. In addition to athletics, Lesly currently serves on the NMAA’s Student Leadership Advisory Council. “I’m extremely proud that small town athletes (like me) are being recognized,” she said. “It’s an honor to even be considered.”

Her basketball coach, Kevin Lackey said her maturity is something to be admired. “She’s the adult of the team,” he said. Lesly always puts the team before herself, which is why Lackey believed she was very deserving of this scholarship award.

Isabelle Sena, a senior at Melrose, won the Lt. Col. Cecil Lynn Jr. Memorial for $1,000. Sena is a 4-sport athlete, playing volleyball, basketball, track, and cheer. She has contributed to four state championships during her time as a Buffalo.

“I’ve been blessed to be considered and awarded this scholarship,” Sena said.

According to their website, the NMAA Foundation will recognize most of the students receiving these scholarships during the Nusenda Credit Union State Basketball Championships. Some will also be honored during the NMAA State Spirit or Spring Championships.