Pentwater Volleyball Captain Karina Olivarez Named Athlete of the Week

September 18, 2026

Junior Leader Juggles Sports, Academics, and Service

Pentwater High School has recognized junior Karina Olivarez as its Athlete of the Week, citing her role as a captain on the varsity volleyball team and her broad involvement in school activities. Olivarez has participated in volleyball since sixth grade and joined the varsity squad in eighth, focusing on her development as both an athlete and a leader.

Beyond volleyball, Olivarez’s athletic experience is extensive. She has played multiple sports throughout the school year, including basketball, track, softball, cheer, and soccer—often participating in two at a time, such as volleyball and soccer in the fall. She noted that during her eighth grade year, the schedule was especially packed, and she continues to balance activities despite having to scale back due to injuries in her freshman and sophomore years.

Olivarez currently fills an outside hitter role in volleyball, but she has adapted to playing different positions as needed, highlighting the realities of a small-school roster. She emphasized the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and maintaining a supportive team environment, especially when navigating injuries or low numbers.

Academic Accomplishments and Future Plans

Academically, Olivarez maintains a strong focus on her studies. She is currently enrolled in pre-calculus and attends courses in health occupations, preparing for certification in phlebotomy and later as a nursing assistant. Her goal is to pursue a career in nursing, with an interest in anesthesiology, noting her enjoyment of math and science.

She manages her academic and extracurricular commitments by staying organized and motivated, crediting support from classmates and family. Olivarez holds leadership positions in student council, the National Honor Society, and participates in church youth programs, emphasizing her commitment to both her school and wider community.

Community Involvement and Goals

Outside school, Olivarez participates in community projects such as beach cleanups with the State Park. She cites her father and her brother as major role models, instilling a strong work ethic and desire to help others. As a mentor, she takes pride in being a positive example for younger students, especially in a K-12 environment where older athletes play a visible role in the school community.

Looking ahead, Olivarez hopes to see her volleyball team advance far in district play this year. She remains committed to her multiple interests and responsibilities, focusing on teamwork, leadership, and the balance of sports, academics, and service.

Pentwater Soccer Player Benjamin Wisenbaugh Named Athlete of the Week

September 11, 2026

Pentwater Junior Recognized for Athletic and Academic Achievements

Pentwater High School junior Benjamin Weisenbaugh has been named Athlete of the Week, recognizing his contributions to the Falcons soccer team. Now in his fourth year on varsity, Weisenbaugh began playing at the varsity level as an eighth grader due to a shortage of players, which provided him with early exposure to higher levels of competition and has helped him develop his skills over the years.

Soccer Versatility and Leadership

Weisenbaugh primarily plays as a striker but steps in as goalkeeper when the team needs him, particularly in challenging matches. He noted that switching between positions can be demanding, but he embraces the challenge, especially against stronger opponents. This season, he reported a notable performance in goal, making approximately 23 saves in a tough game against Montague.

As a junior on a small, close-knit team with only two seniors, Weisenbaugh takes on a leadership role, particularly assisting freshmen and less experienced teammates. He credits former teammates and his coach for helping him develop core soccer skills through consistent practice and hard work.

Multi-Sport Involvement and Academic Pursuits

In addition to soccer, Weisenbaugh participates in hockey and plans to join the track team in the spring, focusing on shot put, discus, and possibly running events. He previously played baseball but decided not to continue. His main sport is hockey, and he aspires to play at the collegiate level, with a specific interest in the University of Michigan and potentially participating in junior leagues beforehand.

Weisenbaugh balances athletics with academics, including dual enrollment courses at West Shore Community College. This year, he is taking a business class and plans to expand his college-level coursework during his senior year, aiming to prepare for university-level studies in fields such as business, engineering, or economics.

Motivation and Community Support

Weisenbaugh attributes his involvement in sports to his family’s athletic background and the encouragement of his parents. He lists additional support from his girlfriend and close friends, who help him manage his busy schedule and academic responsibilities.

The recognition as Athlete of the Week has boosted Weisenbaugh’s confidence and serves as motivation for continued growth on and off the field. He hopes to continue contributing as a leader for his teams and aims to advance his athletic and academic goals in the coming years.

Pentwater Cross Country Senior Bailey Case Named Athlete of the Week

September 2, 2026

Pentwater Senior Recognized for Leadership and Dedication

Pentwater Public Schools has named Bailey Case, a senior and four-year member of the cross country team, as its first Athlete of the Week under a new recognition program. The honor highlights Case’s impact as both an athlete and a leader within the school’s close-knit community.

A Supportive Teammate and Role Model

Case described herself as someone who strives to support her teammates through encouragement, especially during challenging parts of a race or practice. She emphasized the importance of motivation and camaraderie in cross country, saying the team feels like a family. Case has often been nominated as a leader on the team and values looking after others and helping them stay focused and confident.

Finding a Home in Cross Country

While Case initially discovered running through track, she quickly found a passion for cross country. She shared that running outdoors and being surrounded by supportive teammates drew her to the sport, which she has come to see as a safe and encouraging environment.

Influence of Coaches and Academics

Case credited her coach for encouraging her to join cross country and for providing guidance both athletically and personally. She also mentioned the importance of balancing academics with athletics, noting her appreciation for her teachers and the value she places on education.

Ambitions and Advice for Others

Looking ahead to her senior season, Case is aiming to break the school record in the 5K. Her message for younger students considering cross country or other activities is to give it a try and not be afraid to seek feedback and improve. She encouraged others to participate and enjoy new experiences, emphasizing the supportive nature of the team.

Managing Multiple Commitments

Case is also involved in esports and track, balancing multiple activities alongside her schoolwork. She manages her busy schedule with careful planning and organization, making use of a planner to keep track of assignments and practices.

Looking Forward

Bailey Case’s recognition as Athlete of the Week reflects her dedication to her sport, her leadership qualities, and her positive influence on her peers. As she enters her final year, she remains committed to personal goals and to supporting those around her.