By Wayne E. Rivet
Staff Writer

Kyle DeSouza is making the kind of progress every cross-country running coach wants to see.

“His times have improved from the first meet to our last meet. Kyle never misses a day of practice and always gives 100%,” Lake Region varsity cross-country coach Dan Dors said. “Only a freshman, Kyle is a very hard worker and someone we can always count on for a strong performance in practice or at the meets.”

Another reason Coach Dors selected Kyle as his “Player of the Week” is something that won’t be found on the final scorer’s sheet.

“Kyle is not only a fine athlete, but he’s also a person of fine character,” Coach Dors said. “He is a pleasure to coach.”

In recognition of his strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Kyle is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.” Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed T-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

The DeSouza File
Name: Kyle DeSouza
Year in School: Freshman
Town: Harrison
Parents: Ralph and Cathy DeSouza
School Activities/Sports: Cross country, basketball, baseball
Q. Why did you choose cross-country? KD. I chose cross-country because I have always enjoyed running, so I thought I would give it a try.
Q. What do you hope to accomplish this season? KD. Being a top runner for the team.
Q. What do you enjoy the most? KD. Being with my team and having fun with them.
Q. What do you like the least? KD. The thing I like the least is the running part.
Q. What makes you successful? KD. Putting in hard work and effort into my running, and listening to my coaches at every practice.
Q. What would your dream moment be? KD. My dream moment would be making the State Meet as a team.
Q. What has cross country taught you? KD. Cross country has taught me to never give up because if I give up then it could ruin our chances of making States as a team.
Q. Who has inspired you? KD. The whole team has inspired me because we have a great group of kids and runners. Coach Dors and Coach Peterson have inspired me — they are the reason we want to get better, not only as individuals, but as a team.