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McDaniel, Cotrell are November Athletes of the Month at PBHS
The Poplar Bluff Mules Booster Club has named Wren Cotrell and Owen McDaniel of Poplar Bluff High School the November Athletes of the Month, presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors.
McDaniel, a senior swimmer, set a new school record of 1:04.14 last month in the 100-yard breaststroke while placing 25th in the state competition, as well as 23rd as a member of the 200-yard medley relay team with a time of 1:47.11.
During the SEMO Conference Meet, Owen placed second as a team member in the 200-yard medley relay; placed fifth in the 200-yard individual medley; third in the 200-yard freestyle relay; and second in the 100-yard breaststroke.
“Owen is a great leader in the pool, locker room and classroom,” Poplar Bluff swim coach Adam Vincent said. “A teammate of Owen’s said, ‘Owen’s domination in the breaststroke is better than anyone else’s skill in any or all of the other strokes.’
“Owen’s dominance in the pool starts with his leadership in the locker room before and after practice. Owen’s ability to encourage his teammates and drive them to swim their best is unparalleled.”
Cotrell, a junior cross-country runner, was named all-SEMO Conference during the conference meet in October. She was a medalist at the Jackson, Dexter, Clearwater (first place), Forest Park, Jefferson Barracks, Cape Central and Notre Dame invites, as well as the SEMO North Conference. Academically, both Cotrell and McDaniel are ranked in the top 10 percent of their class.
“Wren Cotrell has shown great leadership and dedication as a team leader for the Poplar Bluff Cross-Country team,” Poplar Bluff cross country coach Beth Lewis said. “She worked hard all summer, training consistently and setting an example for her teammates with her effort and determination.
“Her hard work paid off as she became the only Poplar Bluff runner to earn all-conference honors in 2024. Wren’s commitment and positive attitude has motivated her team and made her a key part of their success.”