Athletes of the Week Jan. 22

Ja’Vaughn Burton

He’s not a shooter. He’s not a slasher. In Gen Z parlance, J-Roc Burton is just “a bucket.” The senior wing has exploded for 93 points through Cape’s first three basketball games, the biggest offensive outburst by a Viking since Tracy Jones Jr. was in town. He dropped a cool 32 on Sussex Tech to open the season, went for 29 versus Polytech a few nights later, and netted 32 more against Henlopen Conference North favorite Caesar Rodney Jan. 19. Long known as a lethal three-point threat, Burton has focused on taking the ball to the hole this season. Add a smooth mid-range game and improved transition finishing to the mix, and he can score from anywhere. If you’re looking for a reason to subscribe to Cape’s NFHS livestream package, J-Roc is it.

Liam Leishear

A honor roll student at Cape, this senior is contributing to the success of the boys’ swim team early in this season. "Liam has worked so hard this season to be the best he can be," said head coach Bill Geppert. “The coaches can always count on him to lead his lane at practice and to practice hard. His times have reflected how hard he is working, and we expect him to continue to drop time throughout the season." Liam posted a personal best in the Vikings’ win over Sanford, swimming 1:12.6 in the 100-meter breaststroke. He also swims the 100-meter freestyle, the 200-meter medley relay and the 200-meter freestyle relay. He attributes his improvement in the pool to his dry-land workouts to build up strength and stamina. When not working out or competing in the pool, he likes to relax by skimboarding and playing other water sports.

Lindsay Rambo

This Cape honors and AP student is showing senior leadership on the girls’ swim squad this season, garnering valuable points in numerous events. She powers through the pool in the 200 individual medley, 100 backstroke, 100 freestyle and freestyle relays. "Lindsay fills so many roles for our team," said head coach Bill Geppert. "She is capable of swimming anything we ask of her, and she does it well. As a senior captain, she is a leader who works with the younger members of our team, and she is a positive role model." Her prowess isn't limited to the pool, as she runs cross country in the fall and plays on Cape's championship lacrosse team in the spring. Lindsay is an active member of Cape's student government, where she holds the position of treasurer. She is also an art lover and hopes to study graphic design in college. Though undecided on her college destination, she is leaning toward Penn State.

Alex Taylor

Cape wrestling coach Chris Mattioni said, “Alex Taylor began wrestling in eighth grade at Beacon Middle and fell in love with the sport last year. He finished his freshman year with a 10-2 record on the junior varsity team. Alex set goals and trained hard during the off-season. He trimmed down from 200 pounds last year to qualify for the 182-pound weight class this year. He will be in the varsity lineup at either 182, 195 or 220. Alex works hard and has a great desire to learn. He continues to improve each day. He’s got a great attitude, and will have a lot of success this year and in the future. In addition to athletics, Alex is a great student. He is part of the AVID program and is taking honors classes while maintaining As and Bs. He is a pleasure to work with and is willing to do whatever he needs to be successful.”