Niles West seniors and football players George Tripkos and Daniel Studer were named to the IHSA Football Coaches Association Academic All State Team.
In order to be nominated for such an award, an athlete must maintain a 3.50 grade point average on a 4.0 scale after their 7th semester, must have participated in at least two IHSA sponsored sports or activities during the past two years and must have maintained outstanding citizenship. Tripkos and Studer are both varsity wrestlers as well and are members of Niles West’s National Honor Society.
“Doing what I do school-wise feels somewhat obvious and second nature to me, so it doesn’t really feel like I did anything special to receive this award. That being said, I’m honored to receive this award and be recognized for the work that I’ve done throughout my high school career,” Studer said.
Senior football player Tommy Galanopoulos also received an award for the CSL’s offensive player of the year honors after a strong showing in his senior season.
“I’ve learned so much throughout my 4 seasons, it’s crazy because time really does fly. I remember all of the feeder camps and long practices that I’ve had,” Galanopoulos said, “and in the end, it’s only made me a stronger player and better person.”