Zanna Jones received a huge confident boost as she continues pursuit of her ambitions after being chosen for the LeiLanni Nesbeth Athletic Award.

The versatile ten-year old athlete had the honour bestowed upon her during St David’s Primary School’s graduation ceremony last month and is proud to be the latest recipient of the award named after one of her role models.

“I feel very honoured because I try my best at all sports,” an elated Jones told The Royal Gazette.

“It is extra special earning an award honouring LeiLanni's legacy as she has always been a great role model to the St David’s Lady Warriors.”

The award is presented to female student-athletes demonstrating athletic potential and thriving in various sports as Nesbeth, who plays football professionally for Chicago Red Stars, did while attending the school.

Jones attributes her success to hard work, dedication and perseverance but admits she was surprised to have been given the nod for the award.

“It was a surprise because another female in my class also plays football,” she added.

Jones thrives on the football pitch as a striker or midfielder playing for St David’s as well as on the netball court as a member of Phoenix Sparks.

Asked which is her preferred sport, the daughter of former St David’s Warriors striker Milton Jones replied: “I have a great passion for them both. But if I had to pick I would choose football.”

Jones was introduced to football by her father and has been playing since the age of 4.

She cites Nesbeth as her biggest source of inspiration and one day hopes to follow in the footsteps of her role model and represent Bermuda on the international stage.

“My short-term goal is to play on the girls’ national team and long-term goal is to become professional like LeiLanni,” she said.

As well as thriving in athletics, Jones also excelled in academics in the classroom this past school year.

“My grades are excellent this year,” she said.

“I was awarded four additional awards at graduation and was also a nominee for the Denton Hurdle Award.”

The promising athlete, who will begin studies at Whitney Middle School next September, is also proud and honoured to have served as deputy head girl at St David’s Primary.

“It has been an honour to serve my school as deputy head girl,” Jones added. “I work hard and I try my best to make good choices and influence others to make good choices.”