Even though he's excelled in a variety of academic endeavors, Stephen Poorten is equally focused on athletics; and although he has experience in team sports, he says running cross-country has been the best experience he's had representing Sycamore High School.
Stephen says while he's spent time on the basketball squad, he prefers the solitude of running; he says it's appealing because even though competitors race as a team, the challenge while on the course is to relay on yourself -- no one else. He also says it allows him to escape the stresses of daily living, and to push himself to his absolute limit.
Outside of running, Stephen has served on the Student Council and has been on the Academic Honor Roll throughout high school; he's also with Youth Engaged in Philanthropy, and has acted as a running club coach in his spare time. He hopes to study business administration at either Boston College, Miami (FL) or Marquette.
In recognition of his achievements, the Rotary Club of Sycamore has provided a $100 donation to the charity of his choice; he has picked Hope Haven as the recipient.