KENLY — The women's team at North Johnston has had a wonderful season. They're 28-1 going into this week's state 1A quarterfinals. A big part of this success-- this week's Extra Effort Award winner, Sora Standley.

Coach Bagwell says Sora is the post player inside. She's near the top in scoring and is the top in rebounding. Sora also takes a leadership role among her peers.

Sora Standley has started at North Johnston for three years, and she says what makes her team special is its togetherness.

"We've grown up together," Sora says, "That makes a big difference, when you know you can count on somebody, especially one of your teammates, to be there for you."

In the classroom, Sora is excellent. She's an honor student, a recipient of the National English Merit Award and a member of Who's Who Among American High School Students. Sora impresses her teachers in many ways.

"I think she is a very moral person," explains teacher, Cathy Olive. "Her moral integrity permeates every aspect of her life. She depends on it for her strength and is a very religious person. I think she brings to us a reminder of what every student can be if they reach their potential as students and as athletes. I think she's almost there in both areas."

Sora credits part of her success to her positive attitude and friendly nature.

"I'm a very happy person," Sora admits. "I think that helps on the basketball court. Being happy is a lot better than being sad, but it helps to have such a great day, and a good attitude is very important to having a good day and a good life."

Sora Standley of North Johnston High School is this week's winner of the Extra Effort Award.