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Featuring photos by Rachelle Isgriggs
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Jemar Pauleus
During a pivotal stretch of the season, Cedar Crest sophomore Jemar “Mar” Pauleus helped lead the Falcons through a perfect 3–0 week with statement wins over Manheim Township, Penn Manor, and Wilson. Pauleus averaged more than 17 points per game during that span, scoring 16 points twice before erupting for 20 points against the Blue Streaks. His performances not only powered Cedar Crest’s surge, but also earned him LebCo Athlete of the Week honors.
Those wins marked an important turning point for a young Falcons squad that has continued to gain momentum. Cedar Crest capped the week riding a five-game winning streak, and although they went 1–1 this past week, the growth has been evident. In a key comeback win over McCaskey, the Falcons erased a fourth-quarter deficit behind a sensational showing from Pauleus, who poured in a career-high 41 points in the thriller.
As a team, Cedar Crest now sits at 10–6 after opening the season 0–3, doing so with a youthful roster that features just four seniors—only two of whom are starters.
Reflecting on the performances that earned him Athlete of the Week recognition, Pauleus emphasized both preparation and trust. “It was a personal goal. I worked hard for moments like this,” he said. “I couldn’t do it without my teammates and coaching staff trusting me with the ball.”
This season, Pauleus has embraced an expanded role within the offense. “This year I’ve taken more of a scoring role, and just making plays to help the team win,” he said. That mindset has aligned well with Cedar Crest’s push to climb the standings and establish consistency.
His personal goals are ambitious, but firmly rooted in team success. “My goals are to win League and the Section, and hopefully make it far in Districts and make it to States,” Pauleus said.
Gratitude is a theme that runs throughout his journey. “I want to thank my coaches and my teammates, but most definitely my parents for pushing me to be the best I can be,” he shared. “They’ve always been there for me and always make decisions to help me achieve my dream.” Earlier this season, Pauleus was also recognized as Player of the Game at the Exeter Tip-Off Tournament, another milestone in his growing résumé.
A multi-sport athlete, Pauleus also competes in soccer and hopes to continue playing either soccer or basketball at the collegiate level. He plans to major in business or pursue a career in the sports field. When he’s not training or competing, Pauleus stays busy watching film, recovering, spending time with family, and hanging out with teammates and friends.
For Pauleus, the value of sports extends well beyond the stat sheet. “I enjoy the friendships sports have made me,” he said. “Sports really made me who I am today.”
Congratulations to Jemar on being named LebCo Athlete of the Week. Best of luck to him and the Cedar Crest Falcons as they continue to develop as a unit and look to become a dangerous matchup in the postseason.
Photos by Rachelle Isgriggs
LebCo Female Athlete of the Week: Hayley Sheroky (coming soon)
Past Winners
Austin Smith (Holidays)
Braden Demler (Week ending 12/21)
Oliver Funck (Week ending 12/14)
Ben Rhine (Week ending 12/7)
ProSeal
Penn Realty
