The next outstanding Brookings-Harbor High School student athlete of the 2024/25 school year has been chosen Barron’s ‘Star Student Athlete’. Student athletes are selected by their coach’s for their outstanding efforts in the sports arena, as well as their exemplary scholastic and community participation.
This weeks selection, chosen by Bruin girls varsity volleyball head coach, Vanessa Nidiffer, is senior Makenna Ratliff. Makenna, now in her fourth year as varsity setter for coach Nidiffer, was selected for her strong work ethic, drive, and growth that has made her a critical part of the team. She also participates on head coach Jason Fulton’s varsity track team in the spring, earning a spot at the District meet and placing in 3 of her 4 events.
“Makenna is one of the most reliable athletes I’ve coached, showing up every day for practice and games and being there for her teammates as their captain and setter.” coach Nidiffer said.
She is also a leader scholastically, balancing her athletic participation while carrying a 3.7 GPA in courses such as Algebra 2, Creative Writing, Astronomy, Old Testament theology, and Entrepreneurship.
Already a small business entrepreneur who turned a passion for baking into a thriving small business, Makenna intends to attend cosmetology school after graduation and plans to use many of the lessons she learned through her baking business to start her future business in bridal hair and makeup.
“As our four year varsity setter, Makenna is one of the most reliable athletes I’ve coached,” coach Nidiffer said, “showing up every day for practice and games and being there for her teammates as their captain and setter. This season Makenna amassed 50 kills, 148 assists, and 85 digs. Her work ethic and drive to be the best she can be has always been commendable. We’ll miss her next year”
Volunteer and Charitable work is an important aspect of the Star Student Athlete award, and Makenna is very active at her church, volunteering over 120 hrs so far during high school and works weekly with preschool and toddlers, teaching Bible lessons.
Congratulations Makenna, we are confident that you will continue to be successful in any future endeavor you should choose to pursue.
Special thanks to corporate sponsor Barron’s Home Furnishings and who make this recognition possible.