WOOD RIVER - Blake Sorgea, a junior at East Alton-Wood River High, is being recognized for track and field, an honor that highlights both his athletic involvement and his growth as a student-athlete.
He is a Midwest Members Credit Union Male Athlete of the Month for the Oilers.
Sorgea said one of the things he enjoys most about track and field is the opportunity to meet new people and make friends.
“I have been on the boys' track and field team for two years,” he said. "I have met many new people and made friends. I have really enjoyed being on the track and field team."
He is coached in boys' track and field by Russ Colona.
Sorgea tossed the shot put 42-11.75 in 2026 and the discus 88-11 this season, and has a bright future in his senior year in both events.
Sorgea said his experience in high school sports has helped shape him personally by teaching him self-control and better listening.
“They helped me understand self-control and how to listen better,” he said.
Outside of track and field, Sorgea said he enjoys other sports, including basketball and soccer. He listed soccer defender as one of the positions he plays.
In the classroom, Sorgea said he has earned high honors throughout high school.
Looking ahead, Sorgea said he is not yet certain whether he will continue competing in track and field in college.
“I don’t know yet, maybe,” he said.
He also said he is interested in welding as a future career path.