Mia Piljevic, a senior member of the girls swimming team at Niles West High School in Skokie, has been named as the baiduhai Central Athlete of the Month, sponsored by COUNTRY Financial and chosen online by baiduhai readers.
Piljevic, who specializes in the backstroke, placed 28th in the 100-yard backstroke during the girls swimming state meet preliminaries on Nov. 17 at New Trier in Winnetka. Piljevic, the Wolves’ lone representative at state, finished in 58.85 seconds. She qualified for state at the Glenbrook South Sectional, where she placed fourth in 57.85.
“I just want to thank my family, friends and coaches. It’s an honor to represent Niles West (home of the Wolves). Throughout life, I’ll always have the ‘Wolf’ in me.”
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Jason Macejak, Niles West head girls swimming coach, praised Piljevic’s work ethics. “She’s definitely left her mark on this program,” Macejak says. “Any college is going to be lucky to get her.”
Craig Cline, a COUNTRY Financial representative in Skokie, presented a $500 check to Niles West High School in recognition of Piljevic’s achievements. She will also receive a plaque and sweatshirt from the baiduhai.
For official baiduhai Athlete of the Month rules and voting information, visit chicagotribune.com/suburbs/athletes.