Athlete of the Month - March 2010 Connor Thelen - Rockford Aquatic Club/Rockford High School

Connor represents the best of the Rockford water polo tradition, a committed team player who sets the highest of standards in leadership and sportsmanship. Against the deepest and most challenging of competition, Connor has led his team to a 17th straight OK Conference championship, the district title, and then, after taking third in regionals, to the Michigan state championship – the seventh in the last ten years.

With :43 second to play in the state championship game, the scored tied 10-10, Connor rose to shoot, committing the goalie to the near side but instead passed the ball to his team's 2-meter player, who stepped out to shoot cross cage shot. A perfect example of a great fake and great pass setting up the shot.

More important than any statistic is Connor's immeasurable contribution to the team: demonstrating the power of resilience and perseverance through the toughest of times. He was able to lead a young team, gain their respect, and then when his team needed the play-maker with the pressure of the state title on the line, he rose to the challenge. Connor Thelen provides an excellent model for younger players to emulate.