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Gaither Cheerleader Finds Success Through Optimism

By January 14, 2020January 25th, 2022Athlete of the Week

Tampa, Fl. – January 10, 2020 – Florida Orthopaedic Institute (FOI) is proud to announce Nicolletta Zarcone from Gaither High School as the ‘Athlete of the Week’ for the week ending January 10, 2020.

Zarcone was nominated by Megan Holcomb, head cheer coach, for her coachable attitude and her determined efforts to bring her all at practices and meets.

“Nicolletta is always working hard at practices and out on the mat when she performs,” said Holcomb. “She is always motivating her team to do better and to try their best. Nicki has a positive attitude every time she is at practice and always does what is asked from the coaches.”

A true optimist, Zarcone takes everything a day at a time and allows herself to appreciate every moment. She is always giving 200% accompanied with a positive attitude.

“The thought that I have the ability to wake up every day and have the opportunity to make my day and others’ days amazing is so motivating,” Zarcone said. “I was lucky enough to wake up when others did not, so I have to make each day worthwhile. I just try my best to do my best.”

Going the distance means everything to Zarcone. Every time she hits a goal, she sets another one in order to keep herself motivated and keep the momentum going. It all starts with giving her all to even the smallest effort.

“I do it by doing my best with every little thing I do,” Zarcone said. “It’s an important quality because whatever I do is a resemblance of me. My reputation is on the line.”

Mental fortitude is also a major factor in finding success, according to Zarcone. Putting your mind to it and staying true to yourself are two of the most important aspects.

“My thoughts can get in the way of my attitude, but understanding that everything is mind over matter resonates with me,” she said. “Also, the risk of letting people down is concerning, but nothing is going to be perfect so just sticking to my gut is going to be ideal. Stick to what is right and good karma will come your way.”

Florida Orthopaedic Institute’s Athlete of the Week campaign is designed to focus on student-athletes, recognizing them for their hard work and dedication both on and off the field. The Athlete of the Week award can be earned by displaying one of the following characteristics:

Team Player: Athletes who are nominated for excellence in team play are chosen by a coach who feels the athlete does his or her best to put direction into action, makes a significant contribution to the team and continuously works to improve his or her skills, attitude and training.

Leadership: Athletes who earn the award in recognition of excellent leadership must exemplify strong relationship building skills, show excellent initiative and serve as role models for his or her peers.

To view previous award winners, please follow this link.

Florida Orthopaedic Institute

Founded in 1989, Florida Orthopaedic Institute is Florida’s largest orthopedic group and provides expertise and treatment of orthopedic-related injuries and conditions, including adult reconstruction and arthritis, chiropractic services, foot and ankle, general orthopedics, hand and wrist, interventional spine, musculoskeletal oncology, orthopedic trauma, physical medicine and rehabilitation, physical and occupational therapy, sports medicine, shoulder and elbow, and spine services among others. The organization treats patients throughout its surgery centers in North Tampa and Citrus Park, two orthopedic urgent care centers in South Tampa and Brandon, and 9 office locations in Bloomingdale, Brandon, Citrus Park, North Tampa, Northdale, Palm Harbor, South Tampa, Sun City Center and Wesley Chapel. For more information, please visit: FloridaOrtho.com and ‘like’ us on Facebook: facebook.com/Florida.Orthopaedic.Institute