One thing that makes Sarah Trago (11th) and Jacob Bobet (12th) special is they both have grown up in the Lake Nona area. They have seen first-hand the growth of the Nonahood. Head coach Alex Bennett says, “It has been great to see how hard work has paid off for both Sarah and Jacob in and out of the classroom. They are both really great kids, and definitely a big asset to our team.” I sat down with each of them and had them answer some questions about being a student-athlete and how it has impacted their lives.  First Sara, and now Jacob.

What sports do you play at Lake Nona HS?

Swimming and Water Polo.

How many years you have swam/played water polo?

Swam and played water polo for 4 years.

What do you enjoy most about participating in athletics at Lake Nona HS?

Being able to be part of a great team and have fun.

What are some of the life skills you have learned from athletics?

Time management for sure – it’s important to get to practice and games on time, and also teamwork – I take responsibility for myself and my teammates.

What is your definition of a student-athlete?

To me, being a student athlete is being a student first. We have to focus on academics and make sure to keep up our grades. Being on our team is being a representative of Lake Nona – and we always want to be great athletes and show good sportsmanship to everyone we compete against.

What are some tips to balancing school and athletics? 

It’s really important to keep up with your classes and to work at it every day. Never let yourself fall behind.

You have grown up in Lake Nona and have attended elementary, middle and high school here. How do you feel about all of the growth taking place here?

I like watching our community grow. There seems to be new places to go and try every day.

How do your parents support your participation in athletics?

My parents have always been there for me with advice, help with schoolwork, and they always try to come to my games.

What are some things you like to do when you aren’t working on school or athletics? 

I work as a lifeguard at Moss Park. When I’m not at work, you can usually find me with friends playing video games or just hanging out.

Do you have any words of wisdom to the future Lake Nona Lions?

I would encourage future students to get involved in school and the community. Whether its playing a sport, or joining student government or yearbook, getting involved on campus is a great way to make friends, learn skills and have a lot of fun.