South Meck swimmer is Charlotte Observer athlete of the week

South Mecklenburg High junior Sam Howard is the Charlotte Observer athlete of the week.

Howard received more than 6,000 votes to win over Albemarle’s Adrian Little and Charlotte Catholic’s Olivia Rhodes.

Howard won after having a strong performance at the N.C. 4A Western Regional swimming championships Saturday.

He finished eighth in the 200 individual medley and the 500-free style. He qualified for this week’s N.C. 4A state championships in both events. It’ll be his first appearance at the state meet, which begins Friday in Cary.

Howard’s efforts also helped the Sabres’ boys’ win their fifth 4A West Regional title in the last six years at Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center.

Want to nominate an athlete?: Athletes of the week highlights high school players with outstanding performances. The goal is to recognize all athletes in all sports, both the most accomplished and the underrated or underappreciated players. If you want to suggest someone to be included in the Athletes of the week column, send email to Jay Edwards at edwardswork23@gmail.com. Please include the athletes’ name, school, class and applicable game performance statistics. Coaches must be willing to verify information.

This story was originally published February 2, 2020 at 2:22 PM.