NANA VANG – A CHAMPION’S JOURNEY

Nana Vang has been selected as The Blake School’s Athena Award Winner. The Athena Award is given to one senior female athlete from each participating school who has distinguished herself in special individual athletic achievement or superior achievements in one or more sports.

Nana’s dedication and talent propelled her to the forefront of her sport… Tennis. With each swing of the racket, she etched her name in the annals of tennis history, leaving a trail of victories in her wake.

Nana’s journey to greatness began in 7th grade with determination burning in her heart, she earned not just one, but six varsity letters, a testament to her unwavering commitment to the game. Year after year, she graced the courts as an All-Conference player, her skill and tenacity unmatched by her peers.

But Nana’s contributions extended beyond individual accolades. Twice chosen as team captain, she led her squad with wisdom and humility, inspiring her teammates to reach for the stars alongside her.

Five times, she hoisted the banner of victory as her team clinched the coveted title of Section Champions. And on three unforgettable occasions, she stood tall as the Individual Section Champion, her name whispered in awe by opponents and admirers alike.

In her senior year, she pursued the elusive crown of State Champion alongside her sister, Fatemah Vang. An emotional moment etched in eternity, the sisters grasped the individual State Champion Title together as well as winning a Team State Title. Ending her career on the highest notes of all.

But Nana’s journey was not without its trials. In the face of adversity, twice, she tasted the bitter sting of defeat as her team fell short of the State Championship. And once, as an individual, she fought valiantly only to come agonizingly close to the ultimate prize finishing second. Still, an incredible accomplishment.

Through victory and defeat alike, Nana remained undaunted. For true champions are not measured solely by their trophies, but by who they are and how they make people feel.  Nana is an incredible teammate, captain, sister and friend.  As the sun sets on her illustrious high school career, Nana Vang stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere. Her journey serves as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and unwavering determination.

As she embarks on the next chapter of her life, one thing remains certain: wherever the courts may lead her, Nana Vang will forever be remembered as a true champion, both on and off the court at Blake.

TLDR: 
6x Varsity Letter Winner
6x All-Conference Player
2x Captain
5x Team Section Winner
3x Individual Section Winner
3x Team State Champion
1x Individual State Champion
2x Team State Runner Up
1x Individual State Runner Up