Waito, Overbeek are Bronson Battle Creek Athletes of the Week winners for Sept. 14-19

Battle Creek, Michigan — The Battle Creek Enquirer Athletes of the Week for September 14-19, 2021, have been announced, featuring Matthew Waito and Lani Overbeek. Waito, a quarterback for Marshall football, and Overbeek, a volleyball player for Lakeview, were chosen by fan polls to represent their respective teams.

Matthew Waito, a Marshall quarterback, led his team to a 28-26 victory over Harper Creek in a tightly contested game. He amassed 191 yards on the ground on 25 carries, and added a further 100 yards through passing. Waito scored two touchdowns and contributed two touchdown runs, notably including the game-winning score. Marshall coach Scott Farley commended Waito's elusiveness, toughness, and ability to lead his defense.

Lani Overbeek, a sophomore at Lakeview, excelled in volleyball with an impressive performance in the All-City Volleyball Tournament. She registered 43 kills and 40 digs in the finals, securing the Spartans' victory against Harper Creek. Overbeek also contributed 12 kills in a sweep of Loy Norrix, maintaining a team-high 12 kills throughout the week.

Lakeview volleyball coach Renee Buchholz praised Overbeek's versatility, consistency, and leadership, which have been instrumental in boosting the team's morale and performance.

Both Waito and Overbeek have been nominated for the Athletes of the Week by the Battle Creek Enquirer and Bronson Battle Creek Hospital. Nominations can be submitted via email at bcesports@battlecreekenquirer.com. For further information, contact Bill Broderick at bbroderi@battlecreekenquirer.com, or follow him on X/Twitter @billbroderick.