One by one, they strolled onto the stage – area student-athletes nominated for their work and accomplishments not only in athletics, but in the classroom and in their communities.

Anyone who thinks stereotypically that today’s youth do nothing but stare into their cellphones and laptops missed an opportunity for evidence to the contrary on Tuesday.

The Daily News Super Preps awards ceremony was Tuesday at Bowling Green Ballpark. The stands were filled with the foundations for these kids – parents, friends, relatives, fans – those who push them along into becoming adults who understand the value of work and discipline and caring for others.

These students should be proud of their direction heading into young adulthood. They are among the best our schools produce, and we salute their willingness and wisdom to embrace their opportunities to grow and prosper.

The guest speakers – brothers Robert and Patrick Reynolds, former area football stars – displayed what hard work brings in an interview-style discussion on stage with D93 WDNS radio personality Tony Rose.

“We pushed each other” growing up to be excellent, said Robert Reynolds, who was the Tennessee Titans’ fifth-round pick in the 2004 NFL draft.

But it doesn’t have to be a brother. It can be a coach, a parent, classmates, friends – being a part of one another’s lives growing up can be a huge positive.

We thank those who are in these kids’ corners each day and thank them for being driving forces in shaping our youth into becoming the next generation of productive American citizens.

If you missed this year’s Super Preps, consider coming out next year to see and honor these students’ hard work.

They should be an inspiration to others of all ages.

Congratulations, Super Prep winners and nominees.