BAY PORT, Wis. (WFRV) – When people think of dedication and drive, they think of athletes like Trista Harju. But for Harju, sports have always been about more than winning. They’re about representing her team, her community, and now, the nation.
The Bay Port High School sophomore has been named a semifinalist for the ‘Sports Illustrated Youth Athlete of the Year’ award, which honors young athletes who demonstrate excellence in competition, leadership, and perseverance.
“I’m just grateful to be participating,” Harju said. “I didn’t think I would make it this far, so it’s just really cool.”
From the volleyball court to the track, Harju has built an impressive athletic resume. As a freshman, she qualified for the state track meet. She’s also played at the national level in volleyball, achievements that set her apart as one of the district’s top athletes.
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“Whether it be schoolwork, track, or volleyball, she puts 100 percent into everything she does,” said her mother, Stephanie Harju. “She faces adversity with resilience, and it shows in all aspects of her life.”
Her volleyball coach echoed that sentiment, saying Harju’s influence goes far beyond her athletic ability.
“I think she’s going to be a player that younger kids really look up to,” her coach said. “People in the gym are going to watch her and think, ‘Yeah, she’s going places.’ She’s going to do something with her life.”
Teammates also praise Verju’s infectious energy and leadership on the court.
“She’s very energetic and loud on the court,” said her teammate, Annie Lawson. “It’s easy to play next to her, and she’s really good at picking people up when they make a mistake.”
As part of the Sports Illustrated recognition, Harju is in the running for a $25,000 prize and a national feature in the magazine. But for the Harju family, the experience means more than accolades.
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“This is a great opportunity for Trista as an athlete, and it could potentially help with college scholarships,” said Stephanie Verju. “But even greater than that is the fact that votes and donations go toward cancer research. That means a lot to Trista, and it means a lot to our family.”
Trista is already thinking beyond sports, with plans to pursue a career in nursing. It’s a field that aligns with her commitment to making a difference.
Whether she’s sprinting down the track, rallying her teammates on the court, or inspiring her community, Harju is proving she’s more than just an athlete of the year—she’s an athlete for a lifetime.
