Sun Athletes of the Week: Grady Thomas and Janell Gibson

Thursday, Sept. 20, 2001 | 10:15 a.m.

Male Athlete of the Week: GRADY THOMAS

School: Chaparral

Class: Senior

Sport: Football

Last week: Thomas caught seven passes for 105 yards and scored two touchdowns in the final two minutes, leading the Cowboys to a 27-20 come-from-behind victory over Centennial Friday night. The 5-foot-7, 155-pound receiver caught a 54-yard touchdown pass from Justin Arnold to tie the score with 1:50 to play, then returned a punt 55 yards for the game-winner with 15 seconds remaining. "He's a real quick kid, and he's very elusive" Chaparral coach Ben Johnson said. "Anytime he's given any space, he's very difficult to tackle. He's one of those kids that breaks ankles, and he's very strong for his size."

Female Athlete of the Week: JANELL GIBSON

School: Silverado

Classes: Senior

Sport: Volleyball

Last week: Gibson, a starting middle blocker, earned MVP honors after leading the Skyhawks to the championship at last weekend's Pasadena Poly Tournament. Gibson, who was joined on the all-tournament team by teammates Lacee Koelliker and Deanna Appuglise, helped her squad to a perfect 5-0 showing at the event, including a win over the host school in the title match. Gibson also had 14 kills and six blocks in wins over Desert Pines and Eldorado last week. "Her leadership on the floor has enhanced our level of play," Silverado coach Pam Sloan said. "She's a great, well-rounded player, and she's definitely raised her game this year."