Burnsville High School issued the following announcement on March 22.
Senior Zoie Dundon received the 2022 Athena Award, which recognizes outstanding high school female student-athletes for their athletic accomplishments. The Athena Award, named for the Greek goddess of wisdom and skills, is based on excellence in individual sports or for participation and accomplishments in team sports.
Zoie is a three-sport athlete – cross country, hockey and track – with a total of 12 varsity letters, including two letters in soccer. She was named “MVP” five times during her athletic career and received eight conference and eight section awards.
As a co-captain of the Burnsville girls hockey team, she was instrumental in the team’s success this year. The team finished with a 24-6-1 regular season record and a trip to the Minnesota State Class AA Hockey Tournament. Burnsville lost in the quarterfinals but ended up winning the consolation bracket to take 5th place in state. Zoie was named to the All-Metro Third Team.
“Zoie is an inspirational leader and a one of a kind person,” said Blaze hockey coach Chris Lepper. “Her hard work and determination rubs off on those around her … Zoie has a heart of gold and is always willing to help others.”
Her running career began in middle school after she outperformed her peers in the Pacer Test, a fitness assessment given during physical education class. Afterward, the cross country coach contacted her to see if she’d want to give running a chance. She now holds the school record for the 800 meter, 1600 meter and 5 kilometer race.
“Zoie is constantly learning and improving because she is a coachable, hard-working athlete who has a lot of fun in practice,” said cross country coach Charlie Burnham. ”Every successful team needs someone like Zoie around.”
With a 3.8 GPA, Zoie is blazing a trail in the classroom. She is a part of the National Honors Society, has earned Academic-All State twice in both cross country and track, and has received Academic Excellence in girls hockey.
In addition to her numerous athletic and academic accolades, Zoie is an avid volunteer, president of student council and a Link Crew leader. She also has a part-time job.
Next fall, Zoie is headed to the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities on a track and cross country scholarship, and she plans to major in business.
“Zoie is well-deserving of this award. She is an athlete who not only excels in all three of her sports but also provides leadership and integrity in everything she does,” said Burnsville High School Athletics Director Guillaume Paek. ”The University of Minnesota is lucky to have Zoie represent their sports programs and institution as a whole. She is an amazing athlete, but more importantly, a better human being.”
Zoie will receive her award at the 50th anniversary awards luncheon on Friday, May 6.
Original source can be found here.
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