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Before being named homecoming queen, competing for the Boonton girls basketball team that claimed a sectional title in 2023 was the highlight of Sierra Medina’s high school years.
Now both accomplishments are cherished equally by Medina.
“The basketball championship was really great,” she said. “We beat the odds. It’s tied with being homecoming queen. I was surprised. I didn’t expect to be nominated. It was fun.”
Medina was crowned queen during halftime of the Bombers football game versus rival Mountain Lakes on Friday, Sept. 27. The homecoming dance was held the next evening at the Elks Lodge.
Earl Harrington was named king of the BHS Class of 2025.
“I was surprised and happy,” said Harrington, not fond of the spotlight.
The laid-back Harrington spends a great deal of his free at home playing video games. When not immersed in the world of gaming, he works as a waiter at a local senior facility.
Harrington has a passion for clothes. His style draws attention but, most often, he is attired in a graphic T-shirt and jeans.
Medina, whose top college choice is the University of Delaware, is on course to amass 12 varsity letters – not an easy feat – before she graduates next June. Medina is involved in cross country, basketball and lacrosse.
Lacrosse is Medina’s favorite sport. She has 41 goals, including 24 as a junior, and 10 assists for her career. Her speed has brought her success on the cross country trails. Medina has a PR of 23:09.
In basketball, Medina is a defensive specialist, often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best player. During the 2023 state tournament run, she played a key role in the Bombers’ 41-35 come-from-behind victory over Park Ridge in the North Jersey Section 1, Group I title game.
When Ariana Jackson-Wach left the game in the second half due to a nagging ankle injury, Medina took to the court and was assigned to Allie Shenloogian, the Owls’ top offensive threat.
“Ari’s job was to shut (Shenloogian) down,” Medina said. “I was so scared when I subbed in. I knew I couldn’t mess up. Defense is my thing so I just had to try my best.”
Trailing by six points at halftime, Boonton, supercharged and playing stellar team defense, began its rally with a trio of 3-pointer and gained the lead, 28-25. The Bombers outscored Park Ridge 22-10 over the last 16 minutes to secure their first sectional crown since 1990.
More special moments are likely ahead for Medina, who will be the Black Team’s senior overall for GSA in the spring. Harrington, attired in a sparkly suit at the prom last spring, is certain to come up with more eye-catching garb if he attends the prom in 2025.
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