The Mules Booster Club has named Emilee Cheek and JaDarius Pigg of Poplar Bluff High School the April Athletes of the Month, presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors.

JaDarius, a senior track runner, is ranked No. 1 in Missouri for the 110-meter high hurdle, and seventh in the state for the 300-meter hurdle. He was a state qualifier in 2019. He also long jumps and is on the 4x400 relay team, plus plays basketball. In the classroom, he maintains an 11.37 grade point average.

“J.D. is very involved in other school activities,” commented Mark Barousse, his coach. He has “become a trusted leader on the track team.”

Emilee, a junior track runner, was named All-District in 2021 in the 4x100 and 4x200 relay, and the 100 and 200-meter dash; All-Conference in 2021 in the 4x200, 4x100, 100 and 200; made All-Conference in 2019 in the 4x100, 4x200 and 200; and was named All-District in 2019 in the 4x100, 4x200 and the 100. In addition, she was the Poplar Bluff Invitational champion in the 100-meter dash this year. In the classroom, she maintains a 10.821 GPA.

“Emilee has become an amazing team leader and a fine role model on the track,” said Beth Lewis, her coach. “Emilee shows up every day with the best attitude and work ethic. She’s a great addition to the team.”

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Cutline: Booster Club vice president Brian Taylor presents the AOM awards to JaDarius Pigg and Emilee Cheek on Thursday, May 13.