Recent USC Grad Honored For Athletic Character, Leadership

UPPER ST. CLAIR, PA - Jay Pollock, a recent Upper St. Clair graduate, recently received a 2016-17 Positive Athlete Award at the Heinz History Center in the Strip District. The program, led by former Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward, recognizes athletes who display character and leadership.

Pollock, who was recognized for wrestling, was one of 29 western Pennsylvania students to receive the award. He also excelled in football and track and field, advancing to the PIAA state championships in May and finishing 16th in the shot put event.

Pollock also displayed character and leadership off of the field, volunteering as a buddy at the Miracle League Field of the South Hills and as a mentor through the high school’s Best Buddy Club. In addition, he has participated in Upper St. Clair’s Partners in Physical Education class, a class of general education students who receive their own physical education credits while supporting students with special needs. Partners in PE students also participate in a variety of social activities throughout the year.

In completing the requirements to earn the Boy Scouts highest achievement, the Eagle Scout Award, Pollock and classmate Eric Lehman – organized an interscholastic soccer tournament. The event brought more than 100 students, some with special needs, from 11 area schools together to participate in soccer drills and games.

Pollock, whose accomplishments recently were the subject of a CNN-produced video, plans to study petroleum and natural gas engineering at West Virginia University.

Logo via Upper St. Clair School District.