KALIDA, Ohio (WLIO) – Malia Romes has been a force for Kalida athletics.

From volleyball to basketball — and even track and field — the Wildcat senior does it all.

And she's just as strong in the classroom, maintaining an impressive 3.84 GPA. That's why she is the latest McDonald's Scholar Athlete of the Week.

"She is just very determined. She's very confident, she's very aggressive and she is always wanting to do better for her team," said Kalida volleyball head coach Kayla Mathew. "She pushes everybody around her to be better because she knows that's what it takes for the whole team to succeed."

Success follows Malia everywhere she goes. From volleyball to basketball and track and field, each one of those sports has a special place in Malia's heart.

"It's been a lot. It's very important to me because of the connections I've built through all three sports, but also it just helps you just become a better well-rounded athlete," said Romes.

Malia is heading to the D1 level, where she'll continue her volleyball career for Rutgers University.

"It was almost just a feeling based decision. I had great relationships with the coaches. I had great relationships with the players currently and I just fell in love with the program," Romes said.

"To see her succeed is just really amazing. I know a lot of people in the community are very proud of her and very supportive. I'm very proud. I do appreciate her and I love to see her growth and everything just along the way," said Mathew.

Malia isn't just an accomplished athlete — she's a top student, too. Ranked 14th in her class with a 3.84 GPA, the senior plans to major in business while at Rutgers.

"Malia is a driven, determined on a mission student in the classroom every day. She understands tasks placed in front of her and starts a checklist and starts checking things off as she accomplishes them," said Kalida science teacher Darla Warnecke.

Malia added, "I've learned how to have great time management, to be able to balance okay, well I have less practice time today so I can get more work done but it's honestly just a lot on your plate and you have to learn how to handle it."

Malia Romes has made a name for herself on the court and in the classroom. But she says what matters most is being known for her work ethic and the positive impact she left on others.

"I want to be remembered as someone who worked hard, who can make an impact on their community. I love my relationships with the people I have, and I think that definitely stems from coming from the small town. It just honestly has just made me a better person," Romes said.

Congratulations to Malia Romes — our newest McDonald's Scholar Athlete of the Week.

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