For Erich Deutsch, high school was a fresh awakening, giving him the mind-set to shoot for the stars.
Photo by Mia Nogueira, artwork by Anna Becker
Erich Deutsch is a freshman at TJ, and has been recognized for his ability to balance out high school sports with his outstanding academics. “It’s not very often that you see an athlete that is able to successfully juggle their sports while keeping up with all their classes,” commented Science Teacher Sharon Colbath.
Deutsch is a straight-A student and was one of few freshman to letter on the varsity tennis team this past fall. “I was surprised to make varsity tennis, and there were a lot of good players and upperclassmen that tried out,” said Deutsch. Four years experience with tennis was all it took to illuminate Deutsch’s skills and guarantee him a spot on the varsity team.
Not before long, Deutsch took on his next sport: basketball. While conditioning continued to be weekly, he anxiously awaited the upcoming winter sport to begin. It looks like clear skies for Deutsch, who has seven years of basketball experience under his belt. “I’m really looking forward to basketball. I’m hoping for a great season and more fun,” said Deutsch, who is especially excited to be playing for one of his favorite teachers, Basketball Coach and Computer Magnet Staff Member, Grant Laman. Deutsch is only 13 years old and is already reaching the grand height of 6’2”. “I think Mr. Laman is one of the coolest teachers I have; he is a really cool guy,” said Deutsch.
“When I don’t have sports going on, I like to read and camp with my Boy Scout troop,” said Deutsch, who is an Life Scout, only an arm’s reach away from the final level, Eagle Scout. Deutsch has been in Boy Scouts for eight years now; he started out as a Wolf Scout in the second grade. “Boy Scouts is important to me because it teaches us how to act the right way, and how to be a good person. The best part is the activities we get to do. This winter, we will be taking ski and snowboarding trips,” explained Deutsch. The troop spends quality bonding time with one another, while taking part in the many community service projects in which they participate each year. “My favorite project we have done so far was about two years ago. We helped the Salvation Army around Christmas time by sorting donated food and boxing all of it. It felt really good to help out and make a difference in the community,” said Deutsch.
When he isn’t lost in a Harry Potter book, Deutsch is locked on the Wii playing Super Smash Bros. “I really enjoy playing the Wii and reading. I am interested in graphics; I think that’s why I enjoy my Computer Magnet class so much. I am able to explore these graphics and learn how they work and are put together,” said Deutsch.
“I definitely want to be an Aerospace Engineer when I’m older; math and science are my favorite classes. I can do complicated math in my head,” shared Deutsch who is fascinated by planes and rockets.
“I only have to give him directions once; he is that sharp,” bragged Colbath. The future looks good for Deutsch, his dedication and hard work glimmers among his many great assets.
