This year, juniors Suri Austin and Alex Allocco were nominated for ExCEL, an MSHSL award given to juniors who are in at least one activity outside of school, hold a leadership position, volunteer, and are performing well in progress to graduation. Both Austin and Allocco have achieved excellence inside and outside of school: being involved in numerous activities, serving in leadership positions, and going above and beyond with their dedicated volunteer work.
“I know it was like a very competitive spot, and there’s a lot of talented athletes as well as students at our school,” Austin said. Both her and Allocco were thrilled to hear they had been nominated.
“Mr. Stein came into my class and announced it. I was happy, I’d applied for it, obviously I wanted it,” Allocco said.
Allocco said he swims about 18 hours each week and volunteers for four hours on weekends. He estimated that over the past three or four years, he’s done around 500 hours of volunteer work or community service. Additionally, this season he coached the adapted floor hockey and Edina Swim Club swim team. Allocco also excels in swimming, being ranked number one statewide for the boys’ class of 2027. He is also vice president of Student Senate and member of the math team.
“I love high school swimming, [and] I love club swimming; that’s my favorite thing to do,” Allocco said.
Austin is no different with her busy schedule. She volunteers at Hope Presbyterian Church, assisting with Loaves and Fishes, which provides people in need with free and healthy meals to promote proper nutrition statewide.
“I think [volunteering] has really shaped my mind to think about other people and open the idea that there’s more outside of Edina,” Austin said.
Austin has played for Edina Varsity Lacrosse for five years and is now a captain for her team. In addition to lacrosse, she runs for the Junior Varsity Cross Country team in the fall. She also played piano for 14 years and is now playing competitively.
“I think that if you can gain the trust and respect of others, it is easier to have an impact and lead even if you are young,” Austin said regarding her new captain position.
Nominated by their coaches, Austin and Allocco expressed gratitude for how their coaching shaped their journeys in athletics and contributed to their success. Being heavily invested in the swim team for the past three years, Allocco said his coach likely recognized him for his fast swim times and strong leadership skills with the younger teammates.
“I’m kind of an outspoken guy, and I’m pretty positive in practice. I lead by example, I lead with my words, and I’m always motivating my teammates,” Allocco said.
“It really shows how much impact you can have at the school and how much you can be rewarded for that,” Austin said.
Though neither won the award, both Austin and Allocco said they wish to continue pursuing their activities beyond high school and into the future.
“My favorite [part] is not winning the award but doing all the stuff,” Allocco said.
This piece was originally published in Zephyrus’ print edition on April 9, 2026
