Congrats to our Burghardt Sporting Goods Athletes of the Month for September 2025, Andriana Jones (Girls Volleyball) and Marty Taggatz (Cross Country).These two wonderful student athletes set a good example for others and exhibit the greatest all around attributes of our Core Values: Relationships, Communication, Growth, Love & Biblical Truth and our #PillarsofAthletics: Faith, Excellence, Commitment and Character. #AOTM
Head Cross Country Coach, Danielle Hawkins had this to say of Marty, “Marty has started this season on an incredible note! He has set a new personal record at every meet so far and continues to put in the hard work necessary to keep improving. His dedication and determination are paving the way for great success in his cross-country career. We’re excited to watch his progress and see what the rest of the season holds!”
Head Girls Volleyball coach, Brodie Conklyn had this to say about Andriana, “Andriana may be working through some injuries, although that does not stop her from showing up to every practice and wanting to learn and grow as an athlete. Even when her injury prevents her from participating in practice she is still cheering on her teammates and supporting them in any way possible. Her determination and work ethic to get better every day is unmatched. She always comes to practice and matches with a positive attitude and a smile. She keeps our team energy high when we need it most. Andriana is always eager to learn both in the classroom and on the court. She has always been honest and closely connected with her faith.“
Martin Luther High School recognizes an Athlete of the Month each month of the school year. Using the selection criteria below, the coaching staff of each varsity sport being played during any given month will nominate one individual in a sport being played that month. The ML Admin team will select a winner from the pool of nominees based on the selection criteria below in addition to performance statistics from competitions during that month.
Athlete of the Month selection will be based on the following criteria based of our core values:
Relationships
Commitment (toward practices, games and continued improvement)
Teamwork
Communication
Focus and Discipline
Accountability for oneself and others
Growth
Positive attitude and enthusiasm for their sport both on and off the field/court
Work Ethic
Willingness to learn (coachability)
Perseverance (overcoming challenges)
Love
Sportsmanship (respect coaches, officials, opponents, teammates)
Honesty (playing by rules, character)
Biblical Truth
Community service and involvement
Demonstrates their faith on a consistent basis.
It should be noted that the Athlete of the Month may not merely be the “star” player, but rather a team member who sets a good example for others and exhibits the greatest all around attributes of our core values.
