PRESS RELEASE: Eric Ugarte Recognized with Swope, Rodante Vanguard Award
The Swope, Rodante Vanguard Award Selection Board is pleased to share that Plant City High School senior, Eric Ugarte, has been selected as the 2018 April Student Athlete of the Month.
Eric plays varsity soccer and is the captain of the team. He took the team to the state championship and was able to lead the team to Plant City High School’s first state championship win in school history! As a result of his leadership and dedication to the sport, he’s been named the Class 5A Florida Soccer player of the Year. His soccer coach, Caleb Roberts, nominated for his ability to push through any obstacle and continue to have a positive outlook. The son of migrant workers, Eric balances his life extraordinarily well between school, soccer and work.
A true example of a Swope, Rodante Vanguard Award Student Athlete of the Month, Eric gives his time back to the community by volunteering at Burney Elementary in extracurricular activities and at the United Food Bank in Plant City. Even with his busy schedule, he has maintained an unweighted GPA of 3.6. After graduating from high school, he will continue his education and playing soccer at Southeastern University in Lakeland, FL.
Congratulations Eric! We wish you the very best in all your future endeavors!
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The mission of The Swope, Rodante Vanguard Award is to celebrate outstanding high school student athletes and coaches throughout Hillsborough County.
REQUIREMENTS FOR NOMINATED STUDENTS
- Senior in a public high school of Hillsborough County
- Participate in at least 1 physical sport and have athletic achievements
- Volunteers for community service and/or community involvement
- Overcome a physical, personal, or mental hardship(s)
- Current overall GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Have plans for continuing education