Cobb Schools Athlete of the Week program is a weekly recognition of a male and a female student-athlete that perform at high levels on the field, in the classroom, and in their school communities. The program is made possible by support from BSN. 

This week's winners are:

Malachi Singleton, North Cobb High School, Football

North Cobb football is having a tremendous season. They are the odds-on favorite to win Region 3-7A, and are expected to do very well in postseason play in a very tough classification. The team has been led all season by its 4-star junior QB, Malachi Singleton, who is having a banner year of his own.

In their televised and highly-anticipated game with region-foe Walton last week, Malachi had another exceptional performance. He was 11-14 passing, with 175 yards and one touchdown pass. On the ground, he had 4 rushing touchdowns, with 11 carries for 89 yards.

"Malachi is a natural leader that makes everyone get an inch taller when he walks on the field," said head coach Shane Queen. "He brings out the best in his teammates. His work ethic, character and integrity make him one of the most well-rounded student-athletes to ever walk the halls at North Cobb."

Athletic Director Matt Williams agrees: "Malachi is a very talented student athlete that we are very fortunate to have at North Cobb. He does very well in the classroom as well as on the playing field. He is a leader on and off the field."

Cooper Abney, Pope High School, Volleyball

Pope Volleyball is also having a great season. They won Region 6-6A and are currently in the second round of the state 6A tournament, thanks to a shutout win over Lanier in the first round on Wednesday. They play their Sweet 16 game against Effingham County tomorrow at Pope.

Cooper Abney is a sophomore setter and was a key leader in her team's winning of the Region Championship. She totaled 42 service attempts, 4 kills, 1 block assist, 45 assists, and 31 digs in victories over Sprayberry, Allatoona, and Kennesaw Mountain. 

"Her intensity, passion, and leadership shine brightly," said head coach Erica Miller. "She always pushes herself to her limits through hard work and resilience while encouraging her teammates to do the same. She is a big time play-maker who handles pressure well. She is a humble and consistent athlete in the movements, communication, and small touches that will never make a highlight reel."

"Cooper is the epitome of Pope," said Pope's Athletic Director Josh Mathews. "She grew up watching her dad coach basketball here, so she bleeds blue as much as anyone. That passion for Pope has grown in her over the years and comes out in an intense competitive spirit when she is on the volleyball court. She plays with a heart for her teammates, coaches, the school, and the entire Pope community."

Congratulations to Malachi, Cooper, North Cobb, and Pope. Great athletes make everyone else around them better and these two student-athletes are two perfect examples of that. Keep up the amazing work!