American High senior Jonathan Spicer is wearing many hats during the 2013-2014 school year.He’s the team captain for the boys’ basketball team for the third consecutive season, and a four-year starter for the upcoming season.And what better way for Spicer to kick off his senior year in basketball than being named Patriot of the Month for November for his accomplishments on the court and in the classroom.
The Patriots face district rival Hialeah-Miami Lakes in the November 22 season-opener, but he’s more focused on his academic studies and extra curricular activities to close out his high school career on top.
Spicer is currently ranked in the top 10 percent of his class, serves as the SGA ESSAC Representative, secretary of the 5000 Role Models of Excellence, and he’s a member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta and National Society of High School Scholars.
In addition, Spicer was selected to participate in the 2013-2014 Congressional Leadership Officers' Summit Experience (CLOSE) in Washington, D.C., where he attended workshops and met with members of the Congressional Black Caucus.Spicer was also invited to attend the Career and College Expo on the campus of Florida International University, sponsored by the 100 Black Men of South Florida.
He said a student must be a “great” organizer to balance so many school and community activities.
“You have to establish a regular agenda and schedule and be well organized,” he said. “You must sacrifice sleep to stay up and do homework and study and plan your upcoming activities.”
For basketball, the guard said he’s seeking to improve his scoring and rebounding averages from last year that landed him on The Miami-Herald All-Dade Team.Spicer averaged 15 points and 18 rebounds per game, guiding the Patriots to a 20-6 record and a playoff berth before losing to then-defending state champions Hialeah Gardens.
He said he likes his team’s chances this year with a load of experienced players, a big line-up and a talented depth chart.Spicer said three starters and six seniors are returning, and making a presence is 6’7 sophomore center/forward Josh Palino, towering over most his opponents.
Junior forward Auris Anaro stands 6’6, giving American another big man to score points in the paint and play defense near the basket.
“We have some experience on the team and a pretty big line-up,” Spicer said.Spicer said he’s undecided about which college he plans to attend. He has some offers from some Division I and Division II schools and will narrow his choices sometime during the season.