Sportzwire Athlete of the Week: Leonard DeMarco
By: Carrie Miner Yaple | SportzWire | February 3, 2026 | Photo courtesy Jillian Loff
Sportzwire is proud to recognize Leonard DeMarco, senior captain of the Carbondale Area Unified Bocce Team, as this week’s Athlete of the Week, presented by Envy Electrical. A four-year Unified athlete, Leonard has built a legacy defined by passion, leadership, and an unwavering love for competition.
Leonard, a Class of 2026 senior, competes in Unified Bocce and Unified Track and Field, and his impact on the Carbondale Area athletic community goes far beyond the stat sheet. Last week, the school celebrated Leonard during a special senior day that perfectly captured who he is as an athlete and teammate. He began the day by singing the National Anthem, then took the court and helped lead his team in a tightly contested match against Mt. View. From start to finish, it was a moment that reflected his confidence, heart, and commitment to his team.
As team captain, Leonard has embraced the responsibility of leadership—especially important this season, as many members of the Unified Bocce roster are competing for the first time. Leonard has taken younger teammates under his wing, helping them learn the game, build confidence, and understand the value of teamwork. His deep knowledge of bocce and relentless enthusiasm have translated directly into success, as he has consistently rolled for points in league play and helped Carbondale Area earn victories in two “Golden Frames” this season.
Off the court, Leonard is just as impactful. A familiar and enthusiastic presence at Carbondale Area sporting events, he serves as an ambassador for Unified Sports, proudly supporting fellow student-athletes and representing the program with positivity and pride. According to Unified Sports Head Coach Dr. Samantha Masco, Leonard is the “spark plug” of the team—someone whose energy lifts everyone around him. His teammates celebrate his successes as their own, a testament to the respect and admiration he has earned.
One of the most meaningful moments of Leonard’s career speaks directly to his character. Early on, like many competitors, he struggled with losses. After a tough match, Coach Masco reminded him of the Special Olympics Athlete Oath:
“Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”
From that point forward, Leonard has repeated those words before every match. It’s a ritual that reflects his growth—not just as an athlete, but as a leader who understands that Unified Sports is about courage, participation, and personal growth as much as it is about winning.
What truly sets Leonard apart is his dedication. Coach Masco describes him as the most dedicated athlete she has ever coached. He lives and breathes sports, constantly striving to improve while never losing sight of what matters most: supporting his teammates and bringing people together. Whether facing an opponent or cheering from the sidelines, Leonard has a rare ability to unite everyone around the game.
For his leadership, sportsmanship, and lasting impact on the Carbondale Area Unified Sports program, Leonard DeMarco is a deserving Sportzwire Athlete of the Week, proudly sponsored by Envy Electrical.
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