PHOENIX — 12News loves spotlighting kids and teens in the community who excel in sports, academics and beyond!
We're excited to introduce you to our Champion of the Week as we partner with Champion Air to recognize these outstanding students.
Today, we're introducing you to Lilly Howard, a standout student, star soccer player and successful fundraiser for a cause close to her heart!
"We just won a state championship with my team," Lilly said.
Now she's our Champion of the Week. The straight-A student was a bit shy for the camera but she's a picture-perfect big sister to her brother, who was diagnosed with autism.
She's spent time raising funds for the American Heart Association and advocating for kids with congenital abnormalities to ensure proper care and coverage.
"I spend a lot of time working with my mom helping kids with disabilities," she added.
Her excellence and dedication are recognized by Champion Air as they look to celebrate Valley teens who continue to break barriers and build up their communities. Lilly was nominated by her proud parents. Here's a little more about their nomination for their oldest child.
More about the recipient:
"Lilly's advocacy work extends to championing legislative changes to ensure children born with congenital abnormalities receive the necessary medical and dental coverage currently unavailable through insurance. Her meetings with State Senators and House Representatives demonstrate her determination to enact meaningful change, advocating for the passage of laws that would positively impact the lives of countless children. In summary, Lilly Howard is a remarkable individual whose outstanding achievements, compassionate heart, and limitless potential make her a deserving candidate for recognition as a champion community role model athlete. Her dedication to academic excellence, athletic prowess, and impactful community engagement exemplifies the qualities of a true leader and inspire those around her.
She's also shown a star performance on the elite club soccer team, the Phoenix Rising Desert Foothills Girls 2012 U13 Pre ECNL-Team, demonstrating her dedication and excellence both on and off the field.
Lilly's commitment to academic excellence, reflected in her straight A's, showcases her discipline, hard work, and intellectual prowess.
Furthermore, her prowess extends beyond the classroom, as she excels as a key player on her soccer team, contributing significantly to their success, including finishing second in the state championship cup last year. Her unwavering commitment to making a difference in her community.
It is with great admiration and respect that I wholeheartedly endorse Lilly Howard for this well-deserved recognition."
>> Download the 12News app for the latest local breaking news straight to your phone.
12News on YouTube
Catch up on the latest news and stories on the 12News YouTube channel. Subscribe today.