January’s Athletes of the Month
Dan Henninger - Powerlifting
The Peck High School Athletic Department recognizes Junior Dan Henninger as January’s Athlete of the Month, celebrating his strength, dedication and championship mindset in powerlifting!
Henninger, an 11th grade powerhouse who has been competing for two years, has quickly become a standout representative for the Pirates. For Henninger, this recognition is about more than just personal stats. “It is honorable to be recognized and to be representing Peck Schools this way,” he stated regarding the award.
While many athletes are still finding their footing in the Junior year, Henninger has already reached the pinnacle of his sport. His most proud accomplishment to date is being a State Champion last season as a sophomore, a feat that has set a high standard for the Peck powerlifting program.
This season, Henninger hasn’t rested with his accolades. He has been focused on refining the “big 3”-squat, bench press, and deadlift- to ensure he is a well-rounded lifter, capable of handling any weight on the platform.
Powerlifting is often seen as a solitary pursuit, but Henninger attributes much of his success to the culture of the Peck program. He notes that his teammates are vital to his performance, providing the essential support and motivation needed to hit the gym day after day. This mutual encouragement ensures that every member of the team is pushing toward their personal bests.
For the younger athletes coming up through the Peck ranks, Henninger’s advice is a reminder to appreciate the journey. He says, “do what you enjoy while you still have the opportunity to do so.” It is this passion for the sport that fuels his drive to succeed and represent the Pirates at the highest level.
Congratulations to Dan Henninger on being named January’s Athlete of the Month!
Aletta Jones - Varsity Basketball
The Peck High School Athletic Department recognizes Sophomore Aletta Jones as January’s Athlete of the Month, celebrating her offensive skill set and commitment on the varsity basketball court.
Jones, a 10th grade stand-out who has been playing the game for six years, has established herself as a cornerstone of the Pirate’s rotation. For Jones, the award serves as a motivator for the final stretch of the season. “It is an honor,” she stated, “and it makes me want to finish out the season even stronger.”
This past month was defined by high-impact performances, most notably when Jones recorded a double-double in multiple games this season. Jones has already achieved a major milestone this season by breaking into the top ten list for scoring in the county, an accomplishment she lists as her proudest to date.
To maintain this elite level of play, Jones has dedicated herself to refining her shooting consistency. She credits much of her offensive freedom to the trust of her peers. Jones noted that her teammates’ confidence in her allows her to “play unconventionally,” providing her the flexibility to make creative plays.
Beyond the physical stats, Jones has focused on the mental side of the game. The most important lesson she has learned from her coaches this season is the value of patience. By learning to let the game come to her rather than rushing the play, she has become a more efficient and effective scoring threat.
Congratulations to Aletta Jones on being named January’s Athlete of the Month.