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Saliga awarded 2009-10
Scholar-Athlete award

by CHRIS GRAY
Observer Staff Writer

      A Romeo athlete will represent his community as the recipient of a prestigious scholarship.
       Senior Steven Saliga has been named one of 32 recipients of the Michigan High School Athletic Association's (MHSAA) Scholar-Athlete Award for the 2009-10 academic year, making him the third student in Romeo Community Schools' recent history to earn it.
       A total of 1,900 students from various school classifications applied for the scholarship this year. Applicants had to list their achievements in sports and extracurricular activities, have two letters of recommendation and submit a 500-word essay about the importance of sportsmanship.
       The scholarship is a one-time payment of $1,000, but it is more about the prestige and honoring students who work hard, said Andy Frushour, marketing coordinator for MHSAA.
       "It's a tough competition, there are so many outstanding scholar-athletes in the state," he said. "These are people taking tough classes, getting good grades, participating in community service, can write a good essay and play in sports."
       Saliga said when he applied it was a "hope and pray" situation and was very excited to have found out he won.
       "I'm happy I can represent Romeo in a positive manner," he said.
       Saliga has lettered four times in track and field and twice in both basketball and soccer, and has been a team captain in track and soccer. He earned most improved player in varsity basketball in 2009 and was part of the league and district champions in 2007-09. He also gained all-district soccer player in 2009 and the Macomb Area Conference Good Sportsmanship for track.
       On the academic side, he tutors for sixth to 12th graders, was a first place finisher in the Michigan Industrial and Technology Education Society Competition in 2009 and earned the Divisional Grand Award for Excellence in the MITES Craftsmanship Electrical Level the same year.
       "I love to be competitive, to work to strive for something," he said. "If it wasn't for sports, I think my life would be dull and drawn out, and I wouldn't have that push to do well in other areas."
       Salgia plans on attending Michigan Technological University to study biomechanical engineering.
       Greg Brynaert, athletics and activity director, said Salgia is a positive leader in the school and considered both his academic and athletic endeavors outstanding.
       "He is just a hard-working kid, we're proud and excited for him, he is definitely well-deserving of this scholarship," he said.
       Romeo's previous winners were Christie Brynaert in 2006 and Erin Gallager in 1995.
       The recipients will be honored during the half-time game of the MHSAA Class C Boys Basketball Finals on March 27.