Two weeks ago, the best high school athletes in Michigan were collected for the announcement of Michigan High School Athlete of the Year. Gathered in the group of high school superstars was senior Ted Howard; cross country captain, track star, and swimming champion.
While he did not win the award, Howard was still proud to be among elite company.
“It was incredible,” Howard said. “People on the committee kept telling me that the biggest deal was getting nominated, and anything beyond that is just a bonus.”
With the nomination comes a plaque and a onethousand dollar scholarship, and track Coach Jeff Devantier doesn’t think that it could go to a better person.
“He is willing to do whatever is asked of him,” Devantier said. “He doesn’t back down from anyone and he is always willing to help.”
Throughout his career, Howard has shattered award after award, and this spring he helped lead the track team to a league championship for the first time in twelve years.
“The track team won leagues by 30 points,” Devantier said. “Ted took more than 30 points by himself. He is a big part of our success and I don’t know where we would be without him.”
High School Athlete of the Year is biased on three things; athletics, academics, and community service. Howard noted that he attempts to be a well rounded person, and feels that it was the reason that he was chosen to be a finalist over many other qualified athletes.
Of course, it doesn’t hurt to be naturally gifted.
“He is very talented,” Devantier said. “He has tons of natural ability and he is very selfless. He does everything with the team in mind.”
Aside from being a great athlete, Howard is also a great leader.
“Ted is the reason I was motivated to run cross country,” senior Zach Plumb said. “He is a great teammate.”
Howard will be taking his act to a bigger and brighter stage next year as he is trading in his maroon and white uniform for a maize and blue Wolverine one. Coach Devantier thinks that Howard is ready.
“Ted is the easiest guy to coach,” Devantier said. “I really don’t do a lot of coaching with him, he just does what is asked of him.”
The winner of Michigan High School Athlete of the Year was Mitch Zajec, of Holt High School. Though he would have liked to win, Howard is happy for Zajec, and wishes him well.
“He is a great guy,” Howard said. “After he won, he shook everyone’s hand. He was really modest guy and seemed like a team player. Congratulations to him for winning and I wish him all the best in the future.”
