GROVELAND, Fla. — Emily Manning, a senior at South Lake High School (SLHS), has been a multi-sport athlete throughout her high school career, excelling in volleyball, soccer, and track. Her well-rounded athletic resume is complemented by her leadership roles and academic success, making her a standout both on and off the field.

(Emily is part of the South Lake Girls 4X400 Track & Field Team which now hold the school record.)

Manning has been playing volleyball since middle school and has competed for both her high school and club teams over the past four years. While she also played two years of high school soccer, her true athletic passion lies in track and field. Over the last three years, Manning has made her mark on the track, highlighted by her participation in the 4×400 relay team, which holds the SLHS school record. She was named Track MVP during her junior year and earned the Coaches Award as a sophomore.

In addition to her achievements in athletics, Manning has maintained impressive academic performance, with an unweighted GPA of 3.8 and a weighted GPA of 4.7. Outside of sports, she is deeply involved in school activities. She is a member of the National Honor Society (NHS) and serves as the president of SLHS’s Varsity Club, where she promotes school spirit by encouraging support for student-athletes at games and events.

(Emily gets ready for a track & field race. She is a multi-sport athlete who also has a 4.7 weighted GPA.)

For Manning, representing South Lake High as a senior athlete has been a meaningful experience. “It’s been about showing the importance of dedication and teamwork, and helping push others to be the best they can be,” Manning said. “I also strive to excel in the classroom because I believe that makes an even greater impact.”

In her free time, Manning enjoys hanging out with friends, shopping, and spending time on the lake jet skiing and wake surfing. When asked what advice she has for younger athletes, Smith emphasized the importance of self-care and balance. “Fuel your body, make sure you’re eating the right things, and don’t put too much pressure on yourself,” she said.

(Emily was voted as homecoming queen this year.)

Emily was recently voted South Lake’s Homecoming Queen, adding to her long list of accolades, which also include the Volleyball Spirit Award and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Coaches Choice Award in 2023.

Looking ahead, Manning plans to attend college in the fall to study nutrition science, with the goal of becoming a sports nutritionist.

“I’m excited for what the future holds, but I’ll always cherish my time at South Lake and the memories I’ve made here,” she said.

Manning’s dedication to sports, academics, and leadership sets a powerful example for her peers. She’s is everything a student-athlete should be. Way to go Emily!