Something that has been valued in the eyes of the Bethel Park student body for a long time is excellence in and out of the classroom. Typically, Bethel Park student athletes excel in this certain area.
Last year, Kelsey Metheny was recognized for her outstanding efforts by winning the KDKA Extra Effort Award. This year, Bethel Park produced another Extra Effort winner in the four-year letterman on the diamond, Dakota Forsyth.
“I had no idea it was coming,” said Forsyth. “It’s definitely an honor to be recognized as one of the best student athletes in the school.”
Dakota was one of three finalists for the Extra Effort Award at Bethel Park. Football player Johnny Mascaro and Track star Amanda Ruschel were also up for the award. “They’re incredible students and athletes,” said Dakota. “Their efforts and skills deserve to be recognized as well.”
Some accolades that Dakota holds are a 4.4 GPA, he volunteers at youth baseball camps, and is a member of the Richmond Braves National Baseball Team.
He credits much of his success to putting in work outside of practice and the classroom. “When it comes to school, I try and work hard in order to get the best grade possible. I do all of my homework and study for all of my tests the night before. In terms of baseball, I spend countless hours hitting and fielding in order to make myself the best player I can be.”
When asked who he owes much of his success to, Dakota said, “My family. My parents for traveling everywhere with me and for spending their time to make myself a better player and student, and my siblings for always pushing me to be a better player and student.”
Dakota is either going to attend the University of Florida or Penn State University. There also is a chance he will play baseball in college. “When it comes to college, grades always come first,” Dakota said. “However, it would also be nice to play at the next level whether it be club or on the actual Division-1 team.”
Congratulations to Dakota Forsyth on this distinct honor.
