Watching Ryan Bonshak swiftly plug a hole from his safety position, or stand in the batter's box ready to uncoil on a fastball, one can almost feel the intensity.

Opposing teams were always on the lookout for number 4, as he prowled the defensive backfield, a player who could change the outcome of a game with a ball-jarring hit or a pick-six.

That intensity was not limited to the gridiron or diamond; it was in the classroom as well, earning him a scholarship to Lehigh University where he'll play baseball while working toward a degree as an engineer.

Bonshak's been a member of the varsity football team for three years, starting at safety and running back each of those seasons. His list of accomplishments is long, filled with accolades that were achieved through hard work and unyielding determination.

This past fall he registered 79 tackles and picked off seven passes, both team highs. In his senior year alone, Bonshak was First Team All-Lehigh Valley Conference, the co-defensive MVP of the league, an all-area selection, and a Pennsylvania Class 4A All-State football selection at safety.

Offensively he left his mark as well, gaining 629 yards on the ground. Additionally, the senior captain hauled in 20 catches for 206 yards, and also gained another 501 yards in the return game. He was an indispensable member of the team, barely coming off the field during a game.

In the spring, Bonshak's home was behind the plate. He was the starting catcher for four years, and was named an LVC Honorable Mention at the position his senior year. He served as captain, and through his leadership, helped guide them into the LVC playoffs and the D-11 tournament.

In the winter, he rejoined the basketball team and proved a valuable member off the bench where his defensive intensity helped the Zephs to a winning record.

He's the embodiment of the student athlete, and here at the Whitehall-Coplay Press, we add one more tribute to his long list of achievements, naming him our male Athlete of the Year.

With his legacy firmly established, Bonshak has had some time to reflect as he prepares for the next stage of his life.

"It was a great year," said Bonshak. "I really don't have any regrets. It was a fun experience and I have a lot of memories."

Those memories were shared with teammates and coaches who helped shape that legacy.

He may be regarded as one of the best players to suit up in a Whitehall uniform, helping the Zephs win consecutive LVC Football Championships the last two seasons.

Bonshak wasn't motivated by personal success. He always put the team first. In a team sport, everyone has to do their job for the program to be successful. That's why he concentrated on leadership.

"My goal was to be the best captain I could be," said Bonshak.

That also meant giving the underclassman an example of how to prepare while following a certain path to achieve their goals.

He's also been shaped by the people in his life, most importantly his parents Catherine and Mark. Their influence extended beyond the Friday night lights.

"Those two have been by my side and really pushed me academically my entire high school career," said Bonshak who's been a regular fixture on Whitehall's Honor Roll. "They get the majority of the credit."

He also has three older siblings who have guided him both academically and athletically. He'll be joining Matt this year at Lehigh where the two will be part of the baseball team.

Bonshak said he's also had the benefit of some outstanding coaches and teachers who have also helped mold him.

"I wouldn't be going to Lehigh to purse engineering without all their help," said Bonshak.

All these people, plus the scores of teammates he's shared the field with at Whitehall, have all made a contribution in his life dating back 15 years.

"Those guys have been there my entire sporting career," said Bonshak.

While the lion's share of ink devoted to Bonshak this year has involved his accomplishments on the field, the honor he received as the LVC Scholar Athlete for football likely resonated the most. That honor culminated in a banquet feting all the award winners, with Bonshak earning another distinction when he received the league's Character and Sportsmanship award along with Liberty's Emily Cecchini.

"That award really shows that the things you do by working hard can be recognized," said Bonshak.

Bonshak's athletic career had been the epitome of hard work. And this season he put a declarative stamp on an outstanding senior campaign. Now he's headed to Lehigh where his first focus will be on academics.

"I'm excited to see what classes I'll be taking and also becoming part of the baseball family with my brother," said Bonshak.