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KIMBERLY. Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — One senior’s journey stands out at Kimberly High School.
Balancing academics and athletics can be a challenge for any student, but one student-athlete, in particular, is making her mark in ways that few can manage both in and out of the classroom.
Senior Tarissa Plew doesn’t just juggle three sports, but also a heavy academic workload as she competes for the title of school Valedictorian.
Plew competes in volleyball, basketball, and cheerleading. That would be more than enough for most students, but for her, it’s just the beginning.
“It’s a lot of work, but it’s one hundred percent worth it,” Plew told KMVT. “Feeling like you’ve accomplished the things you want to do; it’s doable and if anyone has the opportunity to do it I think they should take it.”
She started cheering from a young age which is her favorite sport, and played basketball, softball, and volleyball growing up.
Plew stopped cheering briefly in middle school but resumed it in high school as she had a strong passion to compete.
During her own basketball game on Jan. 8, 2025, at halftime, she performed a routine with the Kimberly cheer team in her basketball uniform.
Tarissa Plew performs a routine with the Kimberly cheer team in her basketball uniform during Kimberly’s girls basketball game against Wood River. (Jan. 8, 2025).(Water Tower Photo (Ryan Geer))
It’s not just about the games or competitions for Plew, however, as those around her see something special in her commitment, leadership, and drive.
“She’s setting the standard for what it is to be a student-athlete,” Kimberly principal Darin Gonzales explained to KMVT. “It would be nice if we had 10 more of her. She’s a great young lady.”
Gonzales noted that Plew takes rigorous classes and doesn’t shy away from any challenges.
Athletic Director Zach Dong echoed the statement of the type of student-athlete that she is.
“I was drawn to Kimberly for the high standard not only in athletics but also in the classroom and Tarissa (Plew) is the model for that,” Dong said. “She works hard on her studies, on the court for basketball/volleyball and on the cheer mat. She does a phenomenal job.”
At the high school level, she’s gotten to play volleyball and basketball with her younger sister Taya who is currently a sophomore.
“It’s been one of the best feelings having your sister right next to you competing, Plew said. “When we play together we have such a great connection and it’s fun to be next to her.”
Through all the games, practices, and assignments, she has remained focused on her goals.
Her ability to push herself both academically and athletically is a testament to her hard work and dedication.
“Even in middle school, I was just a straight-A student,” Plew said. “When I went into high school, I knew if I’ve done it this far, I can do it for four more years.”
In just a few months, she will graduate with honors and while her future is still unfolding, she has already made her mark at Kimberly High School and is ready for what’s next.
“I want to major in English. I’ve wanted to be a lawyer for a long time, so I think I’m going to go to law school after,” Plew passionately told KMVT. I also could see myself as a professor. I love teaching and it would suit me very well.”
Whether it’s on the court, the mat, or in the classroom, Tarissa Plew is a perfect example of what it means to be a student-athlete.
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