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VIDALIA, La. — Vidalia High School Senior Kabari Davis is the first athlete ever to be recognized with MDP Fitness gym’s inaugural Athletic Merit Award, which includes a $500 scholarship.

An alumnus of Vidalia High School himself, MDP Fitness owner Fred Marsalis said he selected a student there who demonstrates what it means to be “a scholar athlete” by showcasing his best work both on the field and in the classroom.

“I’m honored to receive the MDP Scholarship,” said Davis, who is the son of Kale Davis and Ladonna Davis.

He plans to use the scholarship to attend Louisiana Technical College and study electrical engineering.

Davis is a member of the Viking Track team, where he does the hurtle jump, and plays running back and linebacker on the Viking football team.

If there is one thing that he has learned in sports that applies to real life, Davis said, it’s how you apply yourself at practice is how you will perform in the game.

“If you go into practice sluggish, you play the game sluggish. If you put forth the effort, you’re going to do all right.”

Likewise, Davis applies himself to his studies so in five years, he might be working for an engineering company.

“I love math; it’s my favorite subject,” he said, adding he wants to apply the skills he’s good at in his future career. “I enjoy working on cars every now and then and sometimes I like to draw.”

Though he at times spends 30-plus hours each week playing and practicing sports, Davis said he’s never had any trouble with performing well in class.

“I’ve always put school first no matter how much time I spend with sports and I’ve always had A’s and B’s,” he said.

Davis said his role model is his father, who is a teacher and coach and also a new Police Jury member in District 4B.

Davis is a member of the National Beta Club, National Honor Society and Student Council. He is also the President of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes club and has been recognized with All-Academic Team honors in football.