January 13, 2025 — From state champs to national talent, Cobb remains the place to see top-level athletes own the field and courts around the county. This week's Athletes of the Week (AOW) are prime examples of student-athletes setting the standard in the classroom and in their sport.
Each week, with the support of BSN Sports, Cobb Athletics celebrates student-athletes who inspire and excel in their sports, academics, and communities. This week's honors go to Lily Joswick from Pope High School and Colben Landrew from Wheeler High School.
Lily is a state champ flag football player for the Greyhounds, and Colben is a four-star small forward for the Wildcats.
Lily Joswick, Flag Football, Pope
An ever-present force at Pope, Lily is involved in nearly every aspect of student life. When she's not making state-championship winning catches in the end zone, she serves as the Class of 2026 Student Government President and as an emcee of school spirit events. She also plays soccer and holds a 4.5 GPA while taking many rigorous classes. She helped lead the Greyhound Flag Football team to a 20-3 record and their third consecutive state title by catching a one-point conversion at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, securing a 14-13 win in the final seconds of the game.
"Lily has been an absolute joy to coach during her two seasons of flag football," said her coach, Kevin Fraser. "She’s not only an incredible athlete but also brings great energy and positivity to everyone around her. Her teammates love her, and she embodies what it means to be a fierce competitor. This season, she delivered in the biggest moments, making the game-winning plays in both the Final Four and the State Championship. She was also voted Area Defensive Player of the Year by the coaches in Area 3."
"As a senior captain and emotional leader, her impact goes far beyond the field. She represents the heart and spirit of our program. Our coaching staff will miss her, not just for her athletic ability, but for the incredible person she is. Lily Joswick will never be forgotten!" Coach Fraser concluded about his Athlete of the Week.
Pope Athletic Director Josh Mathews agreed. "Lily Joswick is an amazing representative of our school, our community, and our athletic program. She is the definition of a student-athlete and leads through positivity and inclusion. Her teammates, regardless of age, are made to feel welcome through her infectious attitude," he said.
"Seeing hundreds of games a year, it is always gratifying when the highest character and hardest workers get the opportunity to shine in the brightest moments. This feeling was realized with Lily when she defended a game-tying pass in the semifinals and then scored the go-ahead extra point in the state championship game. Lily Joswick exemplifies excellence and demonstrates high character relentlessly. She leads her peers in the right direction, no matter the situation," AD Mathews said proudly.
Colben Landrew, Basketball, Wheeler
The defending state champ Wildcats are off to a great start. They are 12-3 and ranked first in the state and eighth in the nation. Colben is a four-star national prospect committed to UConn in the fall. He tallied a double-double in a recent region victory over Cherokee with 26 points and 14 rebounds. In his second year playing for the Wildcats, Colben was also a major contributor to Wheeler's tenth state title season last year.
"Colben is a dominant force on the court," said Wheeler AD Barry Bowdre. "He consistently leads our team in points scored and has really been a highlight of our basketball program at Wheeler."
"He is a natural leader, and his game elevates the play of others, which is what you want in a player of his caliber. Colben has continued to shine on the court and in the classroom. We are fortunate to have him. He is the true epitome of a student-athlete!" AD Bowdre said with a smile.
Congratulations, Lily and Colben! We can't wait to see what each of you will do at the next level! Great job supporting these exceptional student-athletes, Pope and Wheeler!
