Coconut Creek HIgh School {Aiden Palmer}
Eight Coconut Creek High School students have been recognized as 2026 BCAA Scholar Athletes, earning honors for their excellence in academics, athletics, and community service.
Each year, the Broward County Athletic Association celebrates outstanding student-athletes across its 34 member schools through its Scholar Athlete Program. Honorees are recognized at annual banquets and become eligible for a share of more than $100,000 in scholarships.
The program highlights individuals who embody the true meaning of “student-athlete,” balancing high-level athletic performance with academic excellence and community involvement.
This year’s group from Coconut Creek High School showcases that balance at an elite level.
Leading the class is Mika Petit Homme, ranked 5th out of 370 students with a remarkable 5.11 GPA and an astounding 878 service hours. A four-year volleyball athlete and Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital scholarship winner, Petit Homme is also dual-enrolled at Broward College and holds multiple medical certifications. She plans to attend Florida International University to study Physical Therapy.
Michael Buggam, ranked 15th with a 4.8 GPA, has made his mark in both football and track and field. A Cambridge Diploma recipient and BCAA Athlete of the Month for April 2026, Buggam will continue his academic and athletic journey at FIU, studying Exercise Science.
Darrel Carroll, ranked 22nd with a 4.78 GPA, has combined leadership and technical excellence throughout his high school career. A senior captain on the boys’ volleyball team and a Teaching Fellow in Boca Raton, Carroll holds multiple COMPTIA certifications and plans to attend Florida State University to study Criminology.
Ruthann Powell, ranked 28th with a 4.68 GPA, has left a lasting legacy on the track. A school record holder in the 400 meters and a multi-time BCAA finalist, Powell has also served as class treasurer and earned certification as a pharmacy technician. She is currently deciding between Florida A&M and LSU, where she plans to study Pharmaceutical Science.
Julian Panza, ranked 29th with a 4.6 GPA, has built an impressive resume in both academics and leadership. As Key Club President and MOSS Vice President, Panza has earned multiple COMPTIA certifications and recognition as a District CTE Scholar. He plans to attend the University of South Florida to pursue a degree in Cybersecurity.
Nia Ennis, ranked 34th with a 4.6 GPA, has emerged as one of the top flag football athletes in the region. A four-star recruit with seven college offers, Ennis also serves as Student Body Representative and holds multiple technology certifications. She plans to study Information Technology at the collegiate level.
Amara Lauriston, ranked 66th with a 4.2 GPA, has demonstrated leadership both on and off the field. A four-year cheerleader, class president, and Ms. Coconut Creek, Lauriston has also been recognized as a BCAA All-Star Cheerleader. She plans to attend FIU to study Marketing.
Makayla Simon, ranked 85th with a 3.9 GPA, rounds out the group with a strong combination of school spirit and academic achievement. A varsity cheerleader and team representative, Simon holds certifications in entrepreneurship, project management, and accounting. She plans to attend Bethune-Cookman University to study Pediatric Nursing.
Together, these eight students represent the very best of Coconut Creek High School. As they prepare to take the next step in their academic and athletic careers, Coconut Creek’s 2026 BCAA Scholar Athletes leave behind a legacy of excellence and a high bar for future Cougars to follow.
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