Local Runner Tops Weekly Fan Vote
Sam Ivins, a cross country runner from Benton, won the Shreveport Times Athlete of the Week honor. He received more than 21,000 votes in the poll. The result was announced on Monday.
Sam Ivins, a cross country runner from Benton, earned the Shreveport Times Athlete of the Week recognition after topping a fan vote that drew over 21,000 ballots. The outcome, revealed Monday, highlights community engagement with local high school sports. Ivins’ win reflects strong support from his hometown and school, as fan polls often rally family, friends, and teammates. The honor typically recognizes recent athletic achievements, though specific race results were not detailed. Such weekly awards are common in regional newspapers, celebrating standout performers across various sports while letting readers participate directly in the selection process.
This recognition could boost Ivins’ visibility among college recruiters and local fans, potentially inspiring younger runners in Benton. The large vote total suggests a tight-knit community that values high school athletics, which may strengthen school spirit and media readership. However, fan polls sometimes favor popularity over performance, so the award’s significance may vary. Still, it offers a positive spotlight for cross country, a sport often overshadowed by football or basketball.