Student athletes of the week: Dakota Owens and Kylie Holton

Kylie Holton and Dakota Owens, two outstanding athletes from Poplar Springs High School,
have been named Student-Athletes of the Week by the Holmes County Advertiser sponsored by
Jump Street Inflatables. Both students have demonstrated excellence in their respective sports,
academics, and extracurricular activities, making a lasting impact on their school and
community.
Kylie Holton, 17, has been a dedicated member of the Poplar Springs varsity cheerleading team
for four years, where she serves as a base and backspot. Additionally, she has participated in
weightlifting for two years. Beyond athletics, Kylie is heavily involved in school leadership,
serving as Senior Class President, Senior Beta Club President, and Student Council Secretary.
She was also co-captain of the cheer team last season. In her spare time, Kylie enjoys pageantry,
spending time with friends, hunting, and being actively involved in her school community.
After graduation, Kylie plans to attend Chipola College and pursue a career in cosmetology. Her
parents, Shannon and Brian Holton, expressed their pride in her accomplishments, stating,
“We’re so proud of Kylie and everything she does. We love that she’s found so many things to
put her all into.”
Kylie is excited about being recognized as the Student-Athlete of the Week. “I’m happy to be
chosen as the athlete of the week. I love being able to promote school spirit at games and school
events. Go Atomics!” she shared.
Dakota Owens, also 17, is a talented multi-sport athlete, excelling in both basketball and baseball
at Poplar Springs High School. On the basketball court, he plays as a guard/forward, and on the
baseball field, he takes on the role of left fielder. Outside of sports, Dakota enjoys hunting and
fishing, hobbies that reflect his love for the outdoors.
Dakota is the son of Gene and Nina Owens, who have been his biggest supporters. “He’s been
playing basketball going on 13 years and following in his Uncle Dylan Reed’s footsteps with a
tremendous love for the game,” said Nina Owens. After graduation, Dakota plans to attend
Florida Panhandle Technical College to pursue a career in corrections, where he hopes to make a positive impact in the community. “It’s not what you do on the court but what you do off the
court as well,” stated Dakota.
Both Kylie Holton and Dakota Owens exemplify the qualities of leadership, dedication, and
perseverance, making them deserving recipients of the Student-Athlete of the Week honor. Their
contributions to their sports teams and involvement in school activities highlight their
commitment to excellence, both on and off the field.