CONNER, WEBB RECEIVE COVETED CHS AWARDS

Cape Central High School presented its highest athletics awards to seniors Dionna Webb and Ross Conner Tuesday night at its annual All School Recognition Banquet at the A.C. Brase Arena.

Webb was the recipient of the Darla Pannier Award as the top female athlete and Conner received the Lou W. Muegge Award as the top male athlete of the 1999-2000 school year.

Both awards are given to the athletes who best exemplify the qualities of citizenship, scholarship and athletic achievement.

Webb, an outstanding track, basketball and softball athlete, was the Class 4A long jump champion in '99 with a leap of 18' 11-1/2". She will be defending her title in the upcoming state meet at Jefferson City May 26-27.

A first team all-conference selection at point guard, Webb was the Lady Tigers' leader in scoring, assists and steals. She was also captain of the basketball team.

Webb, an outfielder in softball, garnered all-district honors for her performance on the diamond.

"I'm still shaking," said Webb, when asked to describe her emotions upon receiving the award. "It's a great honor. I played sports to have fun and I always tried to do the best that I could, so I'm happy with what I've achieved."

Conner, a three-year letterman on the Cape Central basketball team, was the conference player of the year as a junior. His senior year was solid (second team all-conference), but not as spectacular as his junior season with the talent around him depleted through graduation. He showed his talent had not eroded with an outstanding performance at the annual Area's Best All-Star game, featuring the best high school senior athletes in the area.

"I'm very happy and excited to receive this award," said Conner. "I've had three good years in high school. We've had some ups and downs, but it's been worth it. This is a big honor."

Conner also participated in track as a sprinter and long jumper. Injuries hampered his career in football, as he was out his entire junior and half his senior season with various ailments.

Both Webb and Conner are looking at offers from various schools to continue their education and sports careers at the next level. In addition to their outstanding athletic careers, they are also fine students.

The awards ceremony featured a first time occurrence as the undefeated, unscored on '42 football team was inducted into the Cape Central High School Hall of Fame. This was the first induction for an entire team.