East Middle School eighth graders Alivia Cox and Derick Cunningham have been selected the Leskovar Honda Athletes of the Week.

Both student-athletes compete in multiple sports in East’s Unified Sports Program.

Cox, who recently completed her second season of Unified basketball, takes home the girls’ honor.

“Alivia is a player with a strong mindset,” coach Kelci Thatcher said. “She always has the desire to get better. She always works hard and is never satisfied with where she’s at. Her determination is a quality that is unmatched. Regardless of the outcome, she was always there to win.”

Thatcher said Cox’s character is unmatched.

“She is a great teammate and friend,” Thatcher said. “She always treats others the way she wants to be treated. She is a true champion and has the pride of a lion.”

Cunningham, who also completed his second season of Unified basketball, receives the boys’ accolade.

“Derek has been a great teammate and leader for the Butte Eagles,” Thatcher said. “He is always supportive, brings a high little level of energy, and his overall enthusiasm is contagious. Derek has great court vision, using his height to his advantage to drain any open shot from the elbow or make a nice pass to an open teammate.”

Cunningham also participates in track at East.

“Again, he uses his long legs and height advantage to help him run fast and throw far,” Thatcher said. “Derek always leads by example, setting the bar high for his teammates.”

Leskovar Honda, home of the 20-year, 200,000-mile warranty, teamed up with the ButteCast to honor the finest student-athletes from the Mining City in an effort to encourage more children to get up, get out and try all kinds of sports and activities.