This week’s Student of the Week is Miles Leaks, a new addition to Carmel High School this year and a standout on the basketball team. Leaks came to Carmel from Piedmont High School, and Leaks has always enjoyed sports. “I played soccer, basketball, and football as a kid. I actually liked soccer the most, but basketball eventually grew on me” stated Leaks. Growing up, Leaks traveled a lot with his soccer teams, and he has an older sister who now focuses on competitive cheerleading.

At Piedmont, Leaks helped his team win a conference championship and make it to the Sweet 16, but he decided to transfer to Carmel for a fresh start. “I wanted to grow in my faith and play basketball at a higher level,” Leaks explained, “Carmel has a great program, and I knew I could learn a lot here.”

So far, Leaks has very much enjoyed his time at Carmel, stating, “At first, I was nervous, but everyone has been so welcoming,” he said. One of his favorite experiences was going to Windy Gap, where he grew in his faith and made new friends.

This basketball season wasn’t easy for Leaks and his teammates. After losing a few games and dealing with injuries, they came together and went on a 10-game winning streak. “We made it to the state finals, which was huge for us,” Leaks said.

Leaks has big plans for the future. He wants to make an impact in college basketball and eventually play professionally overseas. Though he is undetermined on where he will spend his next four years, he is hopeful for his next steps. He enjoys being outside, reading and baking with his sister when he’s not on the court. He plans to major in Exercise Science and become a physical therapist.

Marlin Mogusu, who has Leaks in CREW this year, states, “Miles is a godly and brilliant young man who carries himself with integrity and grace. He is kind, respectful, and diplomatic—a true gentleman whose love for the Lord is evident in all he does. Having him in my crew has been an incredible opportunity to witness his remarkable qualities lived out every day.” Leaks has been a welcome addition to our school, and the Carmel family is looking forward to seeing what he accomplishes next.