25-05-2025
Scholastic Superstars: Victor Hanley, Mahanoy Area
What accomplishments are you most proud of and why?
I am proud to have made distinguished honors all 4 years of high school. Good grades do not come easy for me so I have worked hard for every A. I am very proud of qualifying for States this school year for Cross Country. I have put in a lot of practice since I came in dead last in leagues my freshman year. I have knocked minutes off my time and am very proud of that. I am also proud to have made States for FBLA this year.
What were your most rewarding school or community activities?
My most rewarding school activity has been the weekend backpack food program. I like participating in this program because it makes sure that the younger kids in my school have food to eat over the weekend. My most rewarding community activities are Meals on Wheels and A.C.T.I.O.N. youth group. Meals on Wheels have allowed me to deliver meals to those in need and make friends in my community especially with the high-rise residents. A.C.T.I.O.N. has helped me strengthen my faith and help share it with community activities like our Christmas program and Stations of the Cross which I had the honor of portraying Jesus this year.
Mahanoy Area's Victor Hanley during the Schuylkill League Cross Country quad-meet at Cardinal Stadium in Pine Grove on Sept. 20, 2023. (FILE)
What do you do in your spare time?
In my spare time I enjoy participating in 5Ks and 10Ks, weight lifting, going on walks with my grandfather, playing with my dogs, and going to Locust Lake.
What are your plans after high school graduation?
I will be attending Lancaster Bible College for Sports Management and to continue my cross country and track career. I have always loved sports and want to be involved in the industry. I think sports instills such a strong work ethic and makes you realize first hand that hard work pays off.
What do you see yourself doing and where do you see yourself living in 15 years?
I see myself working in the sports industry, but at this point, I am not sure where. I hope to be involved with a professional sports team, so only time will tell where I end up.
Whom do you most admire and why?
I admire so many people in my family, it is hard to pick the one I admire the most. I guess if I had to choose it would be my dad who passed away over 6 years ago. He was such a good man who was always involved in the community. I strive to be just like him.
In a sentence, what is your philosophy of life?
Get one percent better every day in everything that you do. (Shout out to my wrestling coach, Nate Fegley, for that one.)
Finish this sentence: The most interesting thing about me is …
My parents were once told I would never talk, walk, and would struggle in school. Well, I proved them wrong!
A little about Victor
Hometown: Barnesville, PA
Parents: Cheryl Hanley and the late Jay Hanley
Some Honors Include: Distinguished Honor Roll, National Honor Society (Vice-President), October 2024 Elks Lodge Student of the Month, 2024 Homecoming King
Activities: Class Treasurer, Interact Club, Student Council, FBLA, SADD, Theatre Arts, ACTION Youth Group
Athletics: Cross Country, Wrestling, Track & Field
Community Service: Acolyte at Faith UCC Church, Meals on Wheels, Weekender Backpack Food Program, Youth Sports, Read Across America
His Nominator Said: 'He is a constant source of support and encouragement for his peers. Whether it's in the classroom, on the athletic field, or in one of his many extracurricular activities, he is always the first to lend a hand or offer an encouraging word. His leadership is grounded in humility, and he leads by example—never seeking attention for his own achievements, but always looking for ways to uplift others. His quiet determination and drive inspire everyone around him, but it's his kindness and compassion that truly set him apart.'
Fifteen students were chosen by judges from the community to represent the most accomplished of Schuylkill County's graduating classes as part of the Republican Herald's annual Scholastic Superstars.
