Photo by Jason Duchow Photography
Noah Hastings
As a captain of the Sandpoint High School varsity soccer team, senior Noah Hastings said he has learned a great deal under Coach Evan McNeley—lessons that he can apply in all aspects of life.
“In one full year of having a very influential coach, I learned many things, but one thing I really took away from Coach McNeley is that if you set yourself to a higher standard, you can accomplish anything and become a great person, friend, teammate and even greater soccer player,” said Noah, who adds that he is honored to have led such a great group of players this year.
Noah shares that he has always pushed himself to maintain a high GPA and looks forward to challenging himself at the next level.
“My plan after high school is to hopefully find a school where I can play soccer, but if I can’t find that, the school will have to have mountains and rivers so I can be outdoors,” he said, and is considering careers as an environmental attorney or a sustainability specialist.
One of the most difficult experiences for Noah during high school was when one of his friends and teammates committed suicide right before junior year.
“He was a kind friend, dedicated teammate and an intellectual student, known to most. In my world, I spoke with him on a daily basis on the soccer field and at school,” said Noah. “We fought a little harder for our fallen friend for two seasons, and I think playing with him in our hearts and minds is what really helped us achieve so much last season and even more this season.”
Photo by Kirsten Davidson
Hannah Davidson:
Senior Hannah Davidson has been on the school’s cross-country and track teams all four years at SHS and has certainly made her mark. She is the captain of both teams this year and has placed in the top 20 in the state cross-country meet the last three years, including eighth this year.
When asked about her academic and athletic accomplishments, there are many.
“I’ve set the school record for the 800 meter at a 2:18.1, and I’ve been on school record-setting relay teams in the 4x800 relay and distance medley relay,” said Hannah, who is also ranked in the top 10 percent of her class and is a National Merit commended student.
Hannah plans to attend school at either Utah State University or Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, where she plans to pursue a degree in biochemistry or environmental science.
Her coach, Angie Brass, has high praises for Hannah.
“She is an incredible young woman, hard working and a great teammate with year-round dedication and commitment,” said Brass. “She holds the No. 5 all-time fastest time in the 5k for cross country and medaled at State track in the 800 meters the last three years as well as holds the school record in that event. She is a stellar student-athlete as well!”
Running has taught Hannah the importance of being committed and dedicated, and for that she thanks her coaches. “With running, you have to be committed all year round to putting in the work and the miles in order to see success and to get better. It has helped me to see that you get out of something what you put into it,” she said. “My coaches are amazing examples of this dedication.”