Dieruff High School’s basketball standout, Jayla Rosario, and Southern Lehigh High School’s football player, Dariuz Lightner, have been named the Athlete of the Week winners for Week 14 of the 2025-26 season. Their impressive performances have set them apart, showcasing their skills and determination in their respective sports.
Jayla Rosario opened the season strong for the Dieruff girls’ basketball team, scoring 21 points during a 52-43 victory against Tamaqua. Her leadership on the court and ability to deliver in crucial moments contributed significantly to her team’s success, marking a promising start to the season.
On the football field, Dariuz Lightner made his mark in a tightly contested semifinal match. The linebacker recorded a team-high of nine tackles, forced a fumble, and intercepted a pass in Southern Lehigh’s 28-24 win over Cardinal O’Hara in the PIAA Class 4A semifinals. With a total of 95 tackles this season, Lightner is tied for the team lead, demonstrating his impact on the defensive side of the game.
Recognizing Outstanding Athletes
The Athlete of the Week program, run by The Morning Call sports staff, aims to highlight exceptional performances by senior athletes from schools in the Lehigh Valley area. Each week, three male and three female athletes are nominated based on their noteworthy achievements. The public is invited to participate by voting for their favorite nominees. Voting opens each week at 5 p.m. ET on Mondays and closes at 9 a.m. ET on Thursdays, with winners announced on Thursday evenings.
Winners of the Athlete of the Week title are not only recognized for their performances but also become eligible for a $500 scholarship provided by the Lehigh Valley Orthopedic Institute. At the end of the school year, one male and one female Athlete of the Week will receive a larger $10,000 scholarship, further incentivizing excellence in sports.
For those interested in nominating deserving senior student-athletes, submissions can be made through an online form or by email at [email protected]. This initiative allows the community to engage and support its young athletes, recognizing their hard work and dedication.
As the season progresses, both Rosario and Lightner will continue to be pivotal figures in their teams, inspiring their peers and fans alike with their athletic prowess.
