Sione Potoa'e is the epitome of the student-athlete.

He is also a first class gentleman.

In the classroom, he carries a 3.0 grade point average.  When he graduates from high school, he aspires to continue to play football and earn his college degree in a business related field.

A standout defensive end of the undefeated Lakes High School football team, Potoa'e is a force to be reckoned with.

"He is an outstanding football player," said coach Dave Miller.

For his dedication to his studies and his work ethic on the gridiron, Potoa'e has been selected to play in the United States Army All-American Bowl.

"This is quite an honor for him," continued Miller before practice yesterday afternoon.

"He is a real good, a committed, student."

So outstanding that Miller recommended Potoa'e for the honor.

Each year, approximately 90 high school football players are chosen to play in the bowl game, which will be played sometime in January in San Antonio, Texas.

With his selection to the bowl game, Potoa'e is the fifth Lakes football player to earn the honor in the past 10 years.

Equally important, however, is the fact that Potoa'e is the son of a Fort Lewis soldier who is currently deployed to Iraq.

"To have a player chosen for the game with an immediate familial tie to the Army is a fairly rare occurrence," said Jake Ricker, a spokesperson for the US Army All-American Bowl game, during a telephone interview.

"It's tremendous considering this player fully understands what it means to play in a game presented by the Army."

Make no mistake; Potoa'e fully understands what this honor means and who is responsible.

"My dad - my family - is my inspiration," said the soft-spoken and polite Potoa'e.  He went on to say that his father is his role model.

"Like him, I want to be successful and provide for my future family."

Potoa'e will be honored today at 11 am in a special ceremony at Lakes High School.  Over 200 individuals are expected to be on hand for the presentation.

"I am very thankful to have received this award," said Potoa'e has he got ready for practice.

"I am humbled by this."