EFTINK, HENCY CLAIM NOTRE DAME HONORS

From an outstanding group of impressive senior athletes, two were honored as the top Notre Dame High School athletes of the class of 2000.

Notre Dame bestowed its annual awards of Lady Bulldog and Bulldog of the Year on seniors Michelle Hency and Josh Eftink at the school's annual athletic awards banquet Sunday.

The awards are presented to the female and male athlete who best exemplify Notre Dame sports by virtue of their athletic achievement, character, attitude, teamwork, practice ethic and leadership qualities.

"The lowest point in my sports career turned out to be the most satisfying in many ways," said Hency in response to a question about her most memorable experience.

Hency, the basketball team's inspirational floor leader, suffered a severe ankle sprain during this past season which forced her to be out of action for six to eight weeks. She set a goal to return before the end of the season. Buoyed by her typical mental toughness she did just that, returning in time to help her team reach the state quarterfinals for the second consecutive year.

Hency credited her teammate Courtney Vickery with helping her keep a positive state of mind during the rough times following the injury and during rehab.

Hency also played volleyball and soccer for the Lady Bulldogs. An excellent student, she has no plans to continue her athletic career at the next level.

Eftink has been a Bulldog mainstay throughout his high school career, playing varsity baseball four years and basketball three.

"Going to the state Class 2A baseball championships in 1999 and finishing second was a great time," said Eftink.

Notre Dame is 14-4 going into the final weeks of the season, and is once again one of the favorites to contend for a state title.

The power hitting shortstop has signed a letter of intent to continue his baseball career at Southeast Missouri State University.

Eftink credits his parents with providing a positive influence in his life, including sports.

"My parents were very supportive and attended every game," said Eftink.

Both honorees expressed great humility and pride in their choices as the top Bulldogs of the class of 2000.