Cobb Schools’ Athlete of the Week (AOW) program is a weekly recognition of male and female student-athletes performing at high levels in their sport, classroom, and school communities. The program is made possible by support from BSN Sports.

This week’s winners are state champions from Kell and Walton. Justin Arogundade is a triple-jumper for the Longhorns, and Somto Igwilo is a sprinter for the Raiders.

Justin Arogundade, Track & Field, Kell

After an impressive season, Justin closed out his junior track and field season with the 4A Boys Triple Jump State Championship with a jump of 48.5 feet! This made him Kell's first individual state champ in six years. Known for his infectious personality, Justin is always making his classmates and teammates laugh, while also making everything he can do athletically look effortless. He is also in Dual Enrollment at Chattahoochee Tech and thrives in the classroom.

"Justin's growth in his time on the track team has been exponential," said Kell Athletic Director Oneisha Young. "He pushes his event group every day with astounding jumps. There's healthy competition with all of them, and that's a large reason why that group as a whole has had great success this season. They push each other to work hard and to focus on small details."

"His hard work has led to his success this year, and we're extremely proud. Justin's future in this sport is very bright, and we can't wait to see him continue to grow!" concluded AD Young about her school's state champ and Athlete of the Week.

Somto Igwilo, Track & Field, Walton

In her second year as a Walton Raider, Somto is already making a case for her name to be included in the conversation for top sprinter in the state. She won two state titles this season: 6A Girls 100-meter Dash (11.43 seconds) and the 6A Girls 200-meter Dash (23.70 seconds)! She also runs for her team's 4 x 400 relay. Somto has been running since she was eight years old, and in addition to Walton Track, she also competes with the Major Impact Track Club. She maintains excellent grades while balancing practice and meets year-round.

"Somto is a natural leader who exemplifies what it means to be dedicated to her craft," said her coach, Patrick Kay. "Her peers think highly of her and can be seen cheering for her in all of her events. How she approaches the sport and her competitiveness rubs off on other athletes, and her dedication to the sport can be seen on and off the track. She is a critical piece to our team; we go how Somto goes!

"She is our school record holder in the 100m and 200m Dash with times in each event that rank in the Top 10 for the state. She’s undeniably in the conversation for being one of the best sprinters Cobb County and Walton have ever produced, and she’s only a sophomore!" Coach Kay said with a smile.

Congratulations, Justin and Somto! You are both excellent examples of what it takes to stand out in Cobb and at states! Great job supporting these exceptional student-athletes, Kell and Walton!