The Norse News Athlete of the Year is a prestigious award given to the best of the best male and female athletes of the senior class.
The 2024-2025 school year’s SHS Athlete of the Year award has been given to wide-receiver and track athlete, Justin Rice (12). Justin’s remarkable accomplishments and his impact on the Spartan High community will never be forgotten and which is what earned him this honorable recognition.
Nathan Harris is a coach on the Viking football team here at SHS and was Rice’s receiver coach and enjoyed every minute coaching him.
“The humblest person I have ever coached was Justin. He has been instrumental both on and off the field here for the success. Most dominating athletes are egotistical and always want the ball. Every Friday night, he has always wanted every one of us to participate in the offense. He was a complete team player and a joy to coach,” Harris said.
Audril Jones, head coach of the Viking’s girl’s track team, and was able to be one of Rice’s coaches since his athletic journey started.
“Justin is a graceful yet gritty sprinter whose humility and heart make him a quiet force on the track and a true asset to our team Justin is humble, hardworking, selfless and kind. He’s always willing to do what is needed without complaint. He shows genuine care for others and carries himself with maturity and grace. I am so glad I got the chance to be able to help coach Justin and see him grow over the years,” Jones said.
Justin’s ability to make game-changing plays on the football field has made him a vital part of the Vikings’ success. As a receiver, Rice tallied over 1,000 career yards. Beyond his personal achievements, his teamwork and selflessness have inspired his teammates and coaches.
Rice’s talent is not just limited to football. On the track, he has proven to be equally remarkable, consistently performing at a high level and earning accomplishments that include being part of the Nike Indoor Nationals qualifying team in the Sprint Medley Relay (SMR). His combination of grace and grit has made him a quiet yet powerful force in competition, contributing greatly to the Viking track and field team’s achievements. Justin’s personal best times include running 10.70 in the 100-meter dash, and 21.65 in the 200-meter dash, earning him high overall rankings in the state.
Joshua Taliaferro (11) is one of Rice’s track teammates and has enjoyed being able to become as good of teammates as friends.
“Justin is like a brother to me. We’ve been able to bond with each other the last few years and we both have had a lot of fun and growing beside each other. Justin always shows good sportsmanship and always puts in hard work at practices, and it pays off in the meets,” Taliaferro said.
Justin will pursue the rest of his academic and athletic career at the University of Richmond in Virginia and will be a member of the football team.