By Matt Browning

Clay Center’s Clara Edwards is the Academic Athlete of the month for March.

Edwards is a two-sport standout for the Tigers, playing both softball and basketball, but softball is the sport she really excels at. She has committed to play softball at South Dakota, even though she is only a junior.

“I am grateful to have this opportunity (to be chosen as the Wendy’s Academic Athlete),” Edwards said. “It feels great.”

Being a gifted athlete is just part of who Edwards is as a high school student. She is also a 4.0 student and she would like to either get into physical therapy or become a pharmacist.

Trying to find a balance between high school athletics and academics was difficult for Edwards as a freshman, but she has since adjusted and now feels more comfortable.

“I will watch film for a little bit then take a break and get some homework done,” Edwards said. “I have learned to love it all.”

Choosing South Dakota was an easy one for Edwards, who has won more than 30 games as a pitcher in two years for Clay Center and also led the Tigers to back-to-back Class 4A state tournament appearances.

“I walked on campus and I knew that is where I want to be,” Edwards said. “It reminded me a lot of Clay Center and I know I will be very happy there.”