Pleasant Valley senior Tanner Cournoyer has always been involved in a multitude of activities. From elementary to high school, Cournoyer has participated in basketball, soccer, football, baseball and eventually wrestling. “I pretty much played all sports I could while growing up,” stated Cournoyer.
In high school, Cournoyer played on the football team his freshman year, made the baseball team and also joined the wrestling team. Though he had only started wrestling in 7th grade, Cournoyer quickly learned and made the varsity team his junior year of high school.
In his starting varsity year, Cournoyer made it to the state tournament and placed 24th. Making it to the tournament was an incredible accomplishment that would establish him as a leader on the wrestling team.
This year, as a senior, Cournoyer has been made team captain along with his brother. Their hard work and dedication to the sport is admired by teammates.
“The Cournoyers show up and work hard at every practice. They have a winner’s mentality and won’t let anything get in their way,” said varsity teammate and sophomore, Marek Kelsall.
Cournoyer also played on the boys baseball team that made state last year. His talent to make state appearances in multiple sports is unmatched by most other athletes.
Despite his packed schedule, Cournoyer doesn’t let it interfere with his passion for music. He joined the orchestra in 4th grade and the band in 6th.
Cournoyer would play cello in the orchestra until his sophomore year of high school when he decided to switch to the bass. Cournoyer continues to play bass for the orchestra while also playing it in the top jazz band.
Cournoyer has always played tuba in band but also notably plays the sousaphone in marching band performances and the pep band. Cournoyer made it into the top band his sophomore year, establishing his dominance as a musician.
During his senior year of high school, Cournoyer auditioned for the Iowa All-State band and was accepted. He performed in the Hilton Coliseum with the best musicians from around the state.
Cournoyer’s talent is recognized by the head band director, Mr. Anderson. “It is difficult to find a piece that will challenge him. He is able to perform at such a high level for his age and will go on to achieve great things in music if he sticks with it,” commented Anderson.
Cournyer’s hard work has paid off as he has made multiple state appearances in a multitude of activities. Those who work with him respect the work and commitments he has made.
