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Des Moines Register Athlete of the Week Voting Underway

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, January 12th 2026 at 10:21 GMT by Des Moines Register

Des Moines, Iowa - January 12, 2026 - The race is on to determine the Des Moines Register Female Athlete of the Week! A talented field of five athletes, representing a diverse range of sports across central Iowa, have been nominated for their outstanding performances during the week ending January 11th, 2026. Voting is currently underway and will conclude at noon today.

The nominees represent the pinnacle of athletic achievement in their respective disciplines, demonstrating exceptional skill, dedication, and teamwork. Each athlete delivered a performance worthy of recognition, making the selection process particularly challenging for voters.

Let's take a closer look at the contenders:

Aubrey Huber (Ankeny Panthers): Basketball Dominance Huber spearheaded the Ankeny Panthers to a convincing victory, exhibiting a commanding presence on the court. Her impressive stat line of 22 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks highlights her versatility and impact on the game. Huber's performance underscored Ankeny's strategic approach and her ability to elevate her team's performance under pressure.

Emma Schmidt (Dowling Catholic Maroons): A Hat Trick Hero Representing Dowling Catholic, Schmidt etched her name into the week's highlights reel with a remarkable hat trick. This exceptional feat demonstrates not only her individual skill but also her ability to seamlessly integrate with her teammates. A hat trick speaks to a player's agility, precision, and strategic understanding of the game - qualities that Schmidt clearly possesses.

Riley Wilson (Johnston): Track Star Shatters School Record Wilson left her mark on the track, achieving a significant milestone by breaking the Johnston High School record in the 400-meter dash. Her blistering time of 56.8 seconds is a testament to her rigorous training and unwavering commitment to excellence. This record-breaking performance underscores Wilson's status as a rising star in the competitive world of track and field. It also provides a benchmark for future generations of Johnston runners to strive towards.

Sophia Zhang (Linn-Mar Lions): Scoring Prowess and Rebounding Power Zhang was the driving force behind the Linn-Mar Lions' offense, leading the team with an impressive 28 points. Adding to her offensive contribution, she also secured 12 rebounds, showcasing her all-around athleticism and determination. Zhang's performance emphasizes the importance of a balanced skillset in achieving team success.

Claire Peterson (Valley Tigers): Goalkeeping Brilliance Peterson's outstanding saves in goal proved crucial in securing a vital victory for the Valley Tigers. Goalkeepers often go unnoticed, but their contributions are undeniably vital to a team's success. Peterson's performance highlights the pressure-filled role and her ability to maintain composure and execute under intense circumstances. Her skill and vigilance likely thwarted numerous scoring attempts, proving to be the difference-maker in the game.

The Voting Process & What's at Stake

The Des Moines Register's Athlete of the Week award is more than just a title; it's a recognition of dedication, hard work, and exceptional athletic talent within the region. The winner will be featured prominently in the Register's sports section, and the award serves as a significant boost to morale and recognition for the athlete and their school.

As of now, the poll is live and open until noon on Monday, January 12th, 2026. Fans are encouraged to cast their votes and celebrate the achievements of these remarkable young athletes. The athlete who garners the most votes will be crowned the Des Moines Register Female Athlete of the Week, further solidifying their place in Iowa's sporting history.

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