Kari Hillenburg

Pleasant Hope senior

Softball

The shortstop continued her torrid hitting last week, helping carry Pleasant Hope back to the state playoffs. In three games, Hillenburg was 8-for-12, scored seven runs and had 10 RBIs. Hillenburg is batting .549 this year for the Pirates, who play defending champion Palmyra today in a Class 2 semifinal. Hillenburg has made one error this year at shortstop.

Andrew Smith

Kickapoo junior

Swimming

Smith ran a personal-best in the 200-yard individual medley last weekend at the Kansas City Invitational and became a state qualifier for the first time in the event. He also qualified in the 100 breaststroke, taking second in the event. Smith also swam in two relays, which both improved upon state-qualifying times.

Other nominees:

* Cody Ballard, Hollister, football

* Linsey Denney, Everton, volleyball

* Audrey Engelman, Nixa, volleyball

* Jordyn Hoskins, Nixa, cross country

* Bridget Justis, Ozark, volleyball

* Garrett Kirk, Cassville, football

* Garrett Metscher, Republic, football

* Jacob Wade, Strafford, football