Last week was full of high-stakes action around Lexington County with many teams playing in important must-win games. 

This week’s Athlete of the Week winners excelled on the football field and volleyball court. They stuffed the state sheet and led their teams to victory.

Voting for Athlete of the Week runs from 10 a.m. Saturday to 10 a.m. Monday each week at lexingtonchronicle.com/athleteoftheweek. To submit a nominee for consideration email a photo and short bio to sports@lexingtonchonicle.com 

Sam Burks

Northside Christian’s Sam Burks led the Crusaders to a victory over Camden Military after rushing for almost 200 yards. 

The senior scored four touchdowns, including a punt return score. He recorded his sixth game this season with at least 100 yards and fifth with at least two touchdowns. 

Burks has been a big factor in Northside’s success this season. The Crusaders set a program record for wins after finishing the regular season 9-1. The team is set to begin its SCISA 3A playoff run this week and Burks’ success will be crucial to achieve their goals. 

Kaylie Spires

Gilbert volleyball star Kaylie Spires helped her team earn a first-round victory over Gray Collegiate in the SCHSL 4A volleyball tournament.

Spires’ presence was felt all over the court. She finished the match with 21 assists, 19 digs, nine kills, two aces and a block as the Indians won the contest three sets to two. 

The freshman had an impressive regular season. She had multiple 20-assist matches this year and led the team in digs and aces. 

Gilbert’s season came to an end this past Monday after the Indians lost to Aiken three sets to two in the second round of the playoffs.