Student Athlete of the Week – Koa Rapolla
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) -- Palm Springs senior linebacker and running back Koa Rapolla is this week's student athlete of the week.
When coaches recruit players for their football team, they're looking for an X factor, an athlete who can do it all, and that is the exact type of player Koa Rapolla is for Palm Springs High School.
"They call him Superman for a reason, because he's a super athlete, he's a super student, you know, he's just doing it all," head coach Darryl Goree said.
Playing on both sides of the ball, leading the team in receiving yards and rushing touchdowns, while also leading in sacks and total tackles, Rapolla plays every game like it's his last.
"Honestly, it's just the thought of not being able to play again," Rapolla said. "You know, I've got to put everything out there so that I can keep playing the sport that I love, no matter what. That's all my goal is. That's what I do."
Rapolla is the type of player who is not afraid of contact, but he's also a humble, grounded, and selfless athlete who lets his actions speak louder than his words.
"I just want what's best for the team," Rapolla said. "If that's got to be me making the plays, and that's what has got to be. Right now, all I'm thinking about for us is that we want to go far —especially for the young guys —showing that we can do it and that we should."
Despite all the recognition Rapolla receives, he always traces back to the start of his football journey and plays for the people who inspired him to fall in love with the game.
"It starts with my family," Rapolla said. "They motivate me no matter what. It's me praying to God, he's over there keeping his hand on me, guiding me through everything. It's my teammates, my coaches, everybody that supports me —that's where I get my motivation from, because I want to be the best for them."
We are always looking for Student-Athlete of the Week nominations. If you know a senior who should be featured next, be sure to contact the KESQ sports department.
The Student-Athlete of the Week segment airs every Tuesday.
