COSTA MESA, Calif. — Each month, the Kiwanis Club of Costa Mesa recognizes and honors exceptional Scholar-Athletes from Estancia High School and Costa Mesa High School. The award recipients are not only leaders on the field, court, or pool, but also in the classroom.

On April 21, 2022, these stellar Scholar-Athletes were honored in a special Kiwanis award ceremony.

ESTANCIA HIGH SCHOOL

Olivia Atkinson: Senior, Cheer, GPA: 3.8

“Olivia Atkinson is a 4-year cheerleader and one of our two squad leaders. Olivia has proven to be a very valuable member of our program. As much as Olivia is fully committed to her teammates and her job, she is committed to her education even more so by maintaining an impressive 3.8 GPA. To know Olivia is to love Olivia. She brings an infectious energy to each and every practice, game, and cheer event. She is always making everyone laugh and is truly a friend to all. Olivia is always willing to step in and help. She’s consistent, confident and an excellent tumbler. Olivia also brings a level of creativity that has been very valuable for her teams.  We are extremely proud of Olivia and look forward to what the future has in store for her.” -Coach Alexis Hawlish

Micah Gniffke: Boys Volleyball, GPA: 3.33

“Micah Gniffke has been a core member of the Boys Varsity Volleyball team. He is one of our best offensive players, and he does not shy from leading the group. Micah is able to balance being one of the best players on our team as well as having a great GPA and being in good academic standing. There is no other person better to give this award to than Micah.” -Coach Eric Mai

COSTA MESA HIGH SCHOOL

Angelina Diaz – Junior, Cheer, GPA: 3.0

“Angelina Diaz is a 3-year member of the CMHS sideline, traditional competitive, and STUNT team. Angelina has won NHSCC Nationals, USA nationals, CIF-SS and CIF state title as well as league champions for STUNT. She is a flyer and tumbler on our team. Angelina was chosen for this award because she is our power player ranking after each STUNT game. Angelina maintains high academics and proves herself to be a leader on our team. We are excited to honor Angelina this month.” – Kori Johnson, Spirit Programs Director

John Simco – Senior, Tennis, GPA: 3.0

“When I was asked to nominate an athlete for this honor, I inquired into the qualities that a honoree would need to possess and need to have demonstrated to be eligible to join the elite ranks of the current and past Athletes honored with this award. I reflected on all my student athletes and their individual contributions to the Boys Tennis program. I asked myself whose combined qualities have made a significant positive impact on the members of their sports team and the school, their family and ultimately their community.  John Simco embodies all the qualities that make him eligible for this honor. He is a hard worker in the classroom, on the tennis court, and on a theatre stage. He is a natural role model to the younger members of the team. I have witnessed him take on the role of mentor to help guide and encourage the lower classmen on the team. He is a beloved leader to the players, a captain on the team, and I’m honored to be his coach and grateful for the opportunity to support him on his journey. So to John – congratulations on this award. You’re going to make a difference in this world…..in fact you already have. ” – Coach Lowri Taylor

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