Hossam Hamdan's approach on the Pingree School athletic fields mirrors his approach in the classroom. He is a student/athlete defined by an unwavering work ethic, someone who is respected by his fellow students, teachers and administration alike.

Hamdan appreciates the minor details in everything and is eager to put in the extra time to achieve understanding.

"He is routinely the first player at practice and always the last to leave, taking extra time to work on small parts of his game," Pingree football and baseball coach Chris Powers said. "A smart player who embraces his role on the team, he puts the team's goals in front of personal accolades. Hossam routinely took time to help younger players work on their skills while constantly encouraging teammates in all aspects of their game."

Hamdan earned his starting spot with the football team as a junior, seemingly coming out of the woodwork to become a first team safety. He moved to middle linebacker as a senior and finished second on the team in tackles and was named First Team All-Evergreen League. He was also a team captain, voted into the position by his peers.

Also a standout for the Highlanders' baseball team, Hamdan is equally impressive in the classroom, where he carries a 93 average.

Hamdan has not received a grade below a B in his four years at the South Hamilton school, and has managed balancing his academics with athletics, work at a local super market, and his volunteer work.

Hamdan has volunteered to coach Babe Ruth baseball for the past two summers and has volunteered to work with his father in the construction of a local mosque. He has also worked as a tutor of middle school students.

"A pillar of strength for many, Hossam approaches all that he does with a wonderful balance of serious consideration and a playful sense of humor," Pingree English Department Chair Edward Felix Kloman said. "Easy to laugh with both adults and peers in the Pingree community, Hossam's steady resolve, academic integrity, and eternal optimism buoy his peers in many unselfish ways."