As September kicks off, the monthly tradition of ASB’s Athletes of the Month is announced. This honor is given to students who show strong athletic performance along with strong academic achievement. This month, senior Tipeti Paini was recognized for the award. 

Being a varsity athlete all four years of high school, Tipeti is very well known around campus. His sport of choice is football. Paini is a starter on both sides of the ball for Ripon. Either playing offensive guard or defensive tackle, Paini is effective on both sides of the ball. 

Paini leads the team in multiple statistics. He is the leader in sacks, forced fumbles, and pancakes. 

Ripon has started off the preseason strong with a 2-0 record, and strong victories. Paini hopes the team can keep this momentum as they enter into league play later this year. “We like our odds of finishing the preseason undefeated,” states Paini, “League is a bigger challenge, so hopefully we can play hard and make it to the playoffs.”

Football is known to be a very demanding sport. Both physically and mentally. As a player, you face many challenges along the way. When asked about the biggest challenge football brings, “You always have to push through adversity, win or lose. You have to keep the energy up and stay motivated as a team.”

Outside of football, Paini likes to spend time with his friends, catching up with family, and listening to music. 

Congratulations again to Tipeti Paini for being recognized as student of the month!

Image Credit: Jesus Ochoa