Mock takes first

SEATTLE - Not many people can say they've had the 12th Man cheer

them on, but Ronan's Marissa Mock got the opportunity to do that on

Nov. 27 for the Seahawk team championship of the Punt, Pass and

Kick competition that the NFL hosts every year for the nation's

youth.

And much like a star quarterback, Mock excelled and came out the

winner in the 10 and 11 year-old youth group with a total distance

of 196' 3".

SEATTLE - Not many people can say they've had the 12th Man cheer them on, but Ronan's Marissa Mock got the opportunity to do that on Nov. 27 for the Seahawk team championship of the Punt, Pass and Kick competition that the NFL hosts every year for the nation's youth.

And much like a star quarterback, Mock excelled and came out the winner in the 10 and 11 year-old youth group with a total distance of 196' 3".

"It was really fun to go out there and do my best," Mock said. "It was loud, exciting and they put you on the Jumbotron"

With Tavaris Jackson no doubt taking notes, Mock threw for 75'5", punted for 57' 5" and kicked for 63' 5".

"The toughest part is the kicking because you never know where it's going to go and then you have nerves about it," Mock said.

Mock had to win the local competition in the Mission Valley, then the sectional competition in Missoula to reach Seattle. She then followed that up by beating everyone at the Seattle competition by 40 yards.

According to her dad, Justin Mock, Marissa was the one driving the practice sessions, which occurred three to four times a week.

"She was the one who instigated practicing," Justin said. "She put her commitment into it."

And like an opposing QB at the Seahawks' Stadium, Justin said he was affected by the incredible atmosphere of the place.

"It was kind of overwhelming," Justin said. "You can't quite explain what it's like performing in front of 66,000 people and being on the Jumbotron and doing well. It was just an overwhelming feeling emotionally."

Justin also credited his daughter's work ethic to the commitment that it takes to play softball, a sport that Marissa has really taken to as she plays summer ASA ball.

"You've got to practice and if you practice you're going to get better," Justin said. "She wants to get better and she loves sports."

Marissa's total is currently ranked sixth in the entire nation and it's not something lost on the community of Ronan and the Mission Valley.

"Marrisa's mom, Rocky, and I want to thank everybody for their support," Justin said. "Everybody's praise and support has been wonderful."