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What's the sign of a true champion? Someone who's always working to get better. Someone who's never content -- even following what all of us see as an exceptional performance.
That sums up Wheeling seventh-grader Morgan Miehle perfectly. A day after sinking 25 consecutive free-throws to win the 2023 Elks Hoop Shoot National Title at Wintrust Arena in Chicago, Miehle was back home in Wheeling, first attending a volleyball practice and then, later in the day, taking time to get in a basketball workout.
No rest for this young champion.
Along with winning the national title -- she had to win several local and regional tournaments even to reach the Chicago event -- Miehle also took home the Getty Powell Award, awarded to the best-scoring girl, and the Emile Brady Trophy, awarded to those who achieve a perfect score.
"I was very focused on the moment," Miehle said Sunday. "After the first round, I was confident I would be able to make another 15 (baskets). And when I did, I was very happy -- it was great, and it was a moment I'll never forget.
"I was happy that I could represent my school, my community, my teachers and all my friends at the national competition. I want to thank my coaches, my teachers and my parents, and all my friends who supported me on my journey."
Miehle, the daughter of Joe and Lisa Miehle of Wheeling, was sponsored by Wheeling Elks Lodge 28. She is the first Upper Ohio Valley resident to capture the Elks Hoop Shoot National Championship -- an incredible accomplishment.
But it's not just her free-throw shooting that sets her apart.
Miehle is an exceptional student and person, according to those who know her, and with her drive to constantly improve herself, she has a bright future ahead.