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Male Athlete of the Week: LJ Ballenger

LJ Ballenger passing the ball to his teammate, Hunter Howard. Photo provided by Ballenger
LJ Ballenger passing the ball to his teammate, Hunter Howard. Photo provided by Ballenger

Palisade Senior, LJ Ballenger, is the Male Athlete of the Week brought to you by Palisade Dino Mart. Ballenger is an athlete in basketball and golf. His Junior year of high school was Ballenger’s first year on the golf team. Basketball, on the other hand, has been a part of Ballenger’s life starting from a young age. “My first time playing basketball was about in second grade. I would watch basketball when I was little and I really liked watching Russell Westbrook. My parents got me involved with playing not long after.” 

Ballenger’s family have been there for him in his basketball career from the beginning and continue to be some of his biggest supporters. “My parents and my sister are my biggest inspirations. All three of them have taught me to have morals and to work hard, as well as to be humble.” 

With the amazing support system from his family, Ballenger has even more so been motivated to achieve high standards and goals. “My biggest accomplishment in basketball is receiving All-Conference my junior year and being a varsity captain since sophomore year.” Like any athlete, in order to achieve these goals, Ballenger has to perform his best and put in the hard work and commitment. Ballenger does more than just improving his own skills and performance, he also encourages his teammates to do the same. “I bring leadership to the team by being communicative and setting an example for my teammates.”

John Sidanycz (Coach Sid) is the head coach for the Palisade Boys Varsity Basketball team. Coach Sid acknowledges the leadership within Ballenger and appreciates his dedication. “LJ is a senior captain who is a leader on and off the court. He is our second leading scorer with 13 ppg, 3rd in assists (2.5) and our leader in 3 point percentage (45%). LJ always leads with poise and fire.” 

Ballenger is a friend and encouragement to his teammates and those around him. For him, it is more than just succeeding in his own basketball career. “My favorite thing about basketball is the rush you feel when you and your teammates make a big play or win a big game, as well as the excitement that everyone shares.”

Ballenger’s leadership both on and off the court continues to set the standard for his team. His humility and dedication to his craft is a key contributor to the team’s success. Congratulations LJ Ballenger for receiving Male Athlete of the Week!

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