'He Has Shown So Much Growth': Plainfield Star Student Athlete

PLAINFIELD, IL – We all know student athletes who also bring their A-game to other parts of their lives.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these heroes making a difference in their communities. We’re working to let all your neighbors know the individual stories behind the leaderboard.

This submission comes from Jody O'Reel who nominated Gunnar, a seventh grader of Plainfield.

Star student athlete’s name

Gunnar, in seventh grade

Star student athlete’s home state

Illinois

Star student athlete’s Patch town

Plainfield

How do you know the star student athlete?

Parent

What sport does the star student athlete play?

Baseball and golf

Why do you believe the star student athlete should be recognized?

He has shown so much growth as a player. He has conquered and over come many fears as a player and as a student. In 3rd grade, he started his own newsletter for the whole school to participate in. Now in middle school he is currently at a 5.0-grade point for high honors and is striving to be on NJHS. He is taking Spanish for his High School coursework curriculum. He is a representative on the yearbook, holds the Student Council Secretary position, has done many volunteer positions, for various charities and organizations. (Including school dances, fundraisers and Feed my starving children) He is a determined golfer who enjoys playing on the Junior PGA. He also enjoys playing local and travel baseball, where he enjoys 1st base and pitching. He has also been our neighborhood snow removal kid, since the age of 8. (This has allowed him to buy his own snowblower!) He has shown growth and kindness can go a long way with determination!

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the star student athlete?

He is kind and has a heart of gold! He enjoys helping others.

Keep up the great work, Gunnar!

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