Four years of hard work and putting in the extra effort in school has paid off for Libby Epoch as she was named Peacock Collegiate's 2016 Valedictorian.

She's not only heavily involved in school, but is one of Moose Jaw's most accomplished high school athletes. 

Epoch said being name Valedictorian was a very humbling experience and she was able to organize her schedule to accommodate her classes and activities.

"It is a lot of work, I find when your a busier person you make things work rather then too much time you procrastinate away. I have a busy schedule and I'm able to fit everything in and just really use my time to the best...it's kind of become part of me now."

She mentioned that she had scholarship offers from schools all over Canada but decided the University of Saskatchewan would be the place for her after taking a lot of things into consideration.

"I love sports and I'm very passionate about it, so it makes it fun. Throughout high school I've played cross country, basketball, track, volleyball, badminton and I've played baseball outside (school) as well. I'll be playing for the Huskies (basketball) at the U of S next year."

Epoch said she had a lot of support from her family through high school and one teacher in particular was an outstanding mentor. 

"Probably my teacher and coach Ms. (Renee) Verge, she's a great woman, and person to look up to. I've just enjoyed having her company there the whole way, and she's really taught me to be a responsible adult... that's very important going into the real world next (school) year. She loves dealing with kids, and she loves coaching, so it's sad she's done this year."

Epoch finished her grade 12 school year with an average of 98%.