by Declan O’Malley

Sounder contributor

Joaquin Shanks-Morales has been named the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association high school soccer player of the week.

Shanks-Morales, a junior at Orcas Island High School, beat out hundreds of soccer players from the 4A level on down across the state to win the honor.

He earned the honors after a three-goal “hat-trick” performance against the top-ranked Evergreen Lutheran Eagles in the SeaTac League in a match that OIHS won 6-0.

In the season’s final week, Shanks-Morales dominated the Vikings’ attack with four goals in three games, including a two-goal game in the regular season finale against Coupeville on Saturday, Nov. 2.

“It feels good, and I am happy for it. It’s a good achievement, and there is more to come,” he said, crediting consistency and the hat trick with helping him achieve the honor.

This season Shanks Morales has also won five “Man of the Match” honors. He and his Viking team finished the season with a 15-1 record and an impressive 14-game winning streak that propelled them to a postseason birth.

Each week, the WIAA, in partnership with Gesa Credit Union, honors outstanding student-athletes who demonstrate exceptional performances and meaningful contributions to their communities.

Any student in good academic standing is eligible for the Athlete of the Week Award, which can be won once during the academic year. Winners will receive a letter of recognition from the WIAA Executive Director, a Certificate of Achievement, and a $25 gift card.

Cienna Richardson contributed to this story.