Westmoreland H.S. athletes of the week: Latrobe’s Maggie Maiers, Derry’s Mason Horwat

By: Bill Beckner Jr. And Brennan Valladares
Saturday, December 27, 2025 | 4:01 PM

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Maggie Maiers

School: Latrobe

Class: Junior

Sport: Basketball

Claim to fame: Maiers, a 5-foot-11 forward, continues to be one of the top post players in Westmoreland County. She has produced five double-doubles in six games for the Wildcats (4-2, 3-1). She had a season-high 28 points and grabbed 13 rebounds in a 59-51 victory over Kiski Area. She added 13 points in a 52-49 win against McKeesport. Maiers swam for seven years and also played softball and ran track and field. She also plays volleyball and flag football for Latrobe.

You seem to thrive on double-doubles. What is your mindset when it comes to getting double-digit points and rebounds?

I just try to play hard and do what my team needs. Rebounding is all heart, so if I’m crashing the boards and finishing inside, the points will come.

How were you able to get loose and score against Kiski Area?

I feel like the team as a whole is getting in the groove and working better together, with more and more people scoring each game.

You’re in your second season as a full-time starter. What have you learned about varsity basketball?

It’s a lot more physical, and every game matters. You can’t take plays off, and you have to be focused because teams are always ready but there will always be ups and downs.

Do you consider yourself an old-school post player?

Yeah, for sure. I like playing in the paint, being physical and doing the little things. That’s just how I’ve always played.

What is your go-to move?

Probably a drop-step. If I get good position, that’s my favorite move to go to.

Your mom and aunt played in high school and college. Where did they play?

My mom (Michel Maiers) and my aunt (Alison Percy) both went to Latrobe High School. My aunt played volleyball while my mom played both basketball and volleyball at Seton Hill.

Do you still like to drink pickle juice straight from the jar?

I don’t do it as often, but I still do love pickles.

What is the best thing about Christmastime?

Being with family and getting a little break. It’s nice to relax and reset before the rest of the season.

What does your team need to get better at as the season turns to January?

We need to keep tightening up defensively and communicating more. If we stay disciplined and keep trusting each other, I think we can make it far.

Do you have any good-luck charms or superstitions?

Before every game I always have to listen to the song “Sicko Mode” by Travis Scott.

What do you think of coach Mackenzie Livington’s orange-and-black tiger-print boots?

Coach Mack’s boots are definitely one-of-a-kind, and I don’t think anyone else could pull them off as well as she does.

Do you want to play at the next level? Are you hearing from any college programs yet?

Yeah, that’s definitely a goal of mine. There’s been some interest, but I’m just taking it one step at a time.

Latrobe has cutting-edge recovery equipment, including infrared sauna and compression therapy. What has it been like using the equipment, and has it helped?

It’s been awesome. It really helps with recovery, especially during a busy stretch of games. I feel fresher, and it’s definitely helped me stay ready for games.

In general, what makes you happy?

Being around my teammates, competing, and just playing basketball. Winning is great, but honestly, I just love the game and the people I get to share it with.

Mason Horwat

School: Derry

Class: Junior

Sport: Wrestling

Claim to fame: Horwat was named the Panther Holiday Classic MVP after defeating Bentworth’s Owen Ivcic in the 172-pound championship bout at Mount Aloysius. As a team, Derry (6-0) took home second place at the tournament.

What do you believe were the biggest contributing factors to your MVP and championship performance at the Panther Holiday Classic?

I believe the biggest factor was just going out and not worrying about what my opponent was going to do, wrestling to score, and getting to my ties and offense.

What were some of your takeaways after being narrowly edged out as a team in the Panther Holiday Classic?

My takeaway was that it was a good learning experience for the team and the freshmen, especially, because now they can see how great our team can be if everybody wrestles their best. It makes everybody in the room want to get better because we didn’t come away with the win.

How have you seen yourself improve from your freshman year?

I would say that the biggest thing is just not worrying about anything my opponents are going to try to do and believing in the way I wrestle. Also, trying to find angles is really big for me.

Was there a reason for jumping up in weight for your junior season?

I wouldn’t say there is a reason, but I really started liking to lift, and I think my style of wrestling fits into a bigger weight class because I don’t scramble around much.

What went into your decision to commit to Pitt? Were there any other schools pursuing you?

My decision to commit to Pitt came down to me believing it’s the best fit for me to become the best version of myself. I love what they have going on there, and the team is great. There were other schools pursuing me, but Pitt felt like the right choice.

What does your pre-competition look like?

The day before, I make sure I get down to weight, which has been very easy for me this year. And right after weigh-ins, I try to drink electrolytes and eat carbs or just a good meal. Then I try to hydrate as much as possible and get a good warm up in, getting out of breath, so I’m ready for my match.

Do you have any New Year’s resolutions? If so, what are they?

My New Year’s resolution would be to win states and try to get all A’s in school.

What was the best part of your Christmas celebration?

The best part of my Christmas celebration was probably being with friends and family and being able to eat whatever I wanted to this year.

Tags: Derry Area, Latrobe