By Zehra Naqvi, Social Media and Website Coordinator
Montverde Academy celebrates the incredible achievements of its student-athletes and alumni who will compete in the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Here are the distinguished individuals proudly representing their countries and showcasing their talents:
Jose Tati, a rising senior, will swim for Cabo Verde in the Men’s 50-meter Freestyle event. At MVA, Tati has competed at the FHSAA District, Regional, and State levels.
Emily Santos (‘24) returns to the Olympic stage for her second appearance, representing Panama in the Women’s Swimming 100-meter breaststroke. As a former FHSAA state champion with a time of 1:01.44 in the 100-yard breaststroke, Santos continues to excel in her discipline.
“We are extremely proud of Jose and Emily,” said Guilherme Ferreira, Head Swim Coach at MVA. “Qualifying for Paris was Emily’s goal since she first visited MVA in December 2019, so it is awesome to see her accomplish it right after graduation. Jose conquered the spot on the Olympic team at the African Aquatic Championship back in April. That was the first time he represented the Cabo Verde national team. We cannot wait to see Jose and Emily representing their countries in Paris.”
Adaejah Hodge (’24) will race in the Women’s Track & Field 200-meter dash and serve as the flag bearer for the British Virgin Islands during the opening ceremonies. A two-time Indoor National Champion and the 2023 Gatorade Florida Player of the Year, Hodge is set to make a significant impact on the track. At 18 years old, Hodge is the youngest athlete to compete in the women’s 200m event at this year’s Olympic Games. “Adaejah has proven herself to be truly world-class after making the world championship semi-finals last year, and I have full confidence that she will shine once again,” said Gerald Phiri, MVA Director of Track & Field. “She is the epitome of what we want MVA track & field to become.”
Mohamed Cisset (’23) will represent Mali in Men’s Soccer. Ranked sixth in the nation in the 2023 recruiting class, Cisset helped lead his team to win the Montverde Academy Soccer Tournament and a Junior Cup trophy. “Momo’s hard work and perseverance have earned him the opportunity to represent Mali at the 2024 Paris Olympics,” said Mr. Kevin Varnado, SIMA Director. “Every athlete aspires to represent their country on the global stage, and Momo will be one of the select athletes that will do so…this will be a life-changing experience for Momo, and we are thrilled for him and his family.”
Javonya Valcourt (’22) will compete for the Bahamas in the Women’s Track & Field 4 x 400 mixed relay. During her senior year at Montverde Academy, Valcourt won the individual championship in the 400 meters at the FHSAA state meet, showcasing her exceptional sprinting abilities.
RJ Barrett (’18) will take court for Canada in Men’s Basketball. Barrett’s numerous accolades include being named the Gatorade Florida & National Player of the Year in 2018, Max Preps National Player of the Year in 2018, McDonald’s All-American in 2018, and MaxPreps Fourth Team All-American in 2017.
Joining Barrett on the Canadian basketball team is Andrew Nembhard (’18). Despite battling an injury during most of his senior year at MVA, Nembhard came back strong, helping guide the Eagles to a 23-0 start and playing at a higher level than ever before. Nembhard’s recovery and talent highlight the resilience and skill he brings to the Canadian Men’s Basketball Team.
Representing Serbia in Men’s Basketball is Filip Petrusev (’18). As a senior at MVA, Petrusev set himself apart as an inside-outsider player. He attended the Basketball Without Borders Global Camp and was an integral part of the team that won the 2018 National Championship.
These athletes exemplify Montverde Academy’s commitment to excellence and determination. We proudly support them as they compete on the world stage and wish them the best in their Olympic endeavors. Go Eagles!
