URGENT UPDATE: The Bay Area News Group has just opened voting for the Girls Athlete of the Week poll, and time is running out! Readers have until 5 p.m. on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, to cast their votes for standout athletes who excelled from August 25-30. This is your chance to support your favorite young female athletes!

The poll is now live, showcasing impressive performances from the past week. Vote as many times as you like, but remember: no bots or artificial voting methods are allowed. Votes cast by email and any submissions after the deadline will not be counted.

Key Nominees Include:

– **Samantha Botell, Dublin Flag Football**: The senior shone brightly, completing 10 of 14 passes for 136 yards and four touchdowns in a commanding 41-12 victory against KIPP King. She also added 75 yards in a close loss to San Ramon Valley.

– **Ellie Eisenhauer, Monte Vista Flag Football**: This freshman displayed impressive defensive skills with seven tackles and a pass deflection in a tight 13-6 win over Alhambra. Her versatility showed as she contributed even in losses, including a performance with two sacks in a defeat to Dougherty Valley.

– **Katelyn Elliott, Carlmont Cross Country**: The junior dominated the ASICS Cool Breeze Invitational in Pomona, clocking an impressive 17:27.1 in the three-mile race, securing a wire-to-wire victory and leading her team to a third-place finish.

– **Natalie Miyamoto, Hercules Flag Football**: The senior made headlines with her defensive prowess, recording four interceptions, including two returned for touchdowns, while also contributing offensively with two touchdown receptions.

– **Gillian Mabilin, MacDonald Volleyball**: Mabilin was instrumental in MacDonald’s 3-0 season opener, tallying seven kills, seven digs, and six aces.

Each week, the Bay Area News Group recognizes the hard work and talent of young female athletes. Winners will be announced every Friday in both the online and print editions of the Mercury News and East Bay Times sports sections.

To nominate future candidates, email [email protected] by 11 a.m. each Monday. Coaches and team statisticians are also encouraged to submit statistics via MaxPreps to ensure every deserving athlete is acknowledged.

Don’t miss your chance to support these remarkable athletes! Visit the poll now and make your voice heard before the deadline! The excitement builds as the community rallies behind these talented young women—who will you vote for?