Sometimes, it’s not a simple thing to determine which player has the greatest impact on the success of a team. That’s the case with the Weed Cougars varsity basketball team. For example, there’s just 1.4 points per game difference between the leading scorer and the third leading scorer. Statistically, there are several Cougars that are close together in multiple categories. That’s when I go to the coach.

I spoke with Weed coach Mike Carpine, and explained the criteria for the award. Carpine suggested senior forward Aaron Power-Bearden based on his consistent performance during the season.

Consistency is what I also have observed about Aaron. I’ve been following his play for the last three or four years, and he always shows up for game time. Somewhere on the stat sheet you’ll find Aaron with something positive in every game—points, rebounds, steals, or assists. He always seems to contribute in a major way.

Statistically this season, Aaron leads the Cougars in rebounds. He is second in steals and assists, and third in scoring. Aaron also has the best field goal percentage among the starters, and second best free throw percentage. He has scored in double figures nine times this season with a high of 25 points. Aaron is also versatile. He can play the post, run the floor and jack a 3-pointer.

For consistent contributions to his team’s success, Aaron Power-Bearden has earned an Impact Player Award.

The Impact Player Award is given on a monthly basis and goes to Siskiyou County high school athletes, male or female, that have had a significant impact on the success of their team. I select the players based on my own observations, often in consultation with the player’s coaches.

A total of four awards are given each month and are not school specific; they can go to a player at any school that Siskiyou Youth covers. Winners receive Impact T-shirts that were designed by Golden Grotto. The T-shirts and award are cosponsored by Siskiyou Youth and NorCal Classic Hits radio 102.3/101.7.

Aaron Power-Bearden joins Yreka soccer player Ross Perry as a January award winner. I’ll announce another winner in a couple of days.