SOAP LAKE - The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) named Soap Lake Eagle Diana Shtyba the State Athlete of the Week for December 4-10. The Seattle Times and WIAA team up to recognize 12 varsity athletes, one male and one female who exhibited an outstanding performance for the week. 

All varsity level students in good academic standing at their schools are eligible to receive the WIAA State Athlete of the Week Award. Students may only win the award once during any given academic year.

Shtyba is currently a junior at Soap Lake High School, and plays post for the Eagles basketball team. She played in three games during the week, scoring 12 points and pulling down six rebounds against Bridgeport Dec. 8, and had 26 points and 13 boards in the game against Waterville Dec. 9. On Dec. 10, Shtyba knocked down 22 points and hauled in 22 rebounds against Wilson Creek, to earn the State Athlete of the Week recognition.

"It is a pretty big honor for her to be recognized at a state level ... a big deal for any athlete," coach Nathan Covey said. "It has had a positive effect on the team as a whole. Everyone is more enthusiastic and working really hard."

Shtyba praised Covey for providing inspiration to her and the team this year. 

"He has really encouraged us to succeed and work towards our full potential," she said. "This acknowledgement from the WIAA means a great deal. It has really encouraged me to work even harder on and off the court."