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2018 Scholar Athletes - Girls

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2018 Scholar Athletes - Girls

Division 1


Kari Brekke, Appleton North High School – 4.00 GPA

Varsity Letters Earned by Grade

Cross Country – 9, 10

Tennis – 12

Basketball – 9, 10, 11, 12

Soccer – 9

Track & Field – 10, 11

Individual Sports Achievement

Track & Field – Conference Champion – 11

Team WIAA Success

Cross Country – Conference Champion – 9, 10

Cross Country – Sectional Champion – 9, 10

Basketball Conference Champion – 11, 12

Basketball – Regional Champion – 9, 10, 11, 12

Basketball – Sectional Champion – 10, 11, 12

Basketball – State Champion – 11, 12

Times Named to All-Conference First Team

Basketball – 4

First Team All-Defensive Team 2017-18 FVA Girls Basketball – 4

Times Named to Varsity Sport MVP

Basketbal1 -1

Tennis – 1

Years Involved in Co-Curricular Activities

DECA – 2

Link Crew – 1

KEY/Peers – 1

National Honor Society – 2

Inspire Sports – 4

Civic & Community Activities

Special Olympics 2 yrs

Inspire Sports – 4 yrs

Appleton North Girls basketball camp 9, 10, 11

College Choice

University of New Hampshire - Neuroscience & Behavior


Essay

The greatest lesson I’ve learned from my high school athletics is the ability to have a growth mindset. The definition of a “growth mindset” or having “true mental toughness” is: treating people well, giving your very best, bringing a great attitude, and being unconditionally grateful. Many people do not know how difficult it is to consistently sustain a growth mindset. Through my high school athletic experiences, I have faced adversity many times; being down by fifteen in the sectional semifinals with eight minutes to go, hitting a wall at mile two in the state cross country meet, losing the first set of a tennis match 0-6, and many more. With a fixed mindset, the easy thing to do would be give up and lose the game by twenty, fall behind the pack and struggle finishing, or lose the second set without putting up a fight. With a growth mindset, I treated each of these events as an opportunity to learn and grow. My team advanced to the sectional finals after making a big comeback late in the game. I pushed my body to its limit and helped my team secure third place at the state meet. I gave my very best effort and lost the second match 4-6, but the match lasted over two hours. Having a growth mindset isn’t magic that helps you win every game - but, it is a tool that helps me to be a great leader and be thankful for the opportunities I have every day.


Samantha Krueger, River Falls High School – 3.72 GPA

Varsity Letters Earned by Grade

Volleyball – 11,12

Gymnastics – 9, 10, 11, 12

Track & Field – 9, 10,11

Individual Sports Achievement

Gymnastics - Conference Champion – 9, 10, 11, 12

Gymnastics – Sectional Champion – 9, 10, 11, 12

Gymnastics – State Champion – 10, 11, 12

Track & Field – Conference Champion – 10, 11

Track & Field – Regional Champion – 10 ,11

Team WIAA Success

Volleyball – Conference Champion – 11,12

Volleyball – Regional Champion – 11, 12

Volleyball – Sectional Champion – 11, 12

Gymnastics - Conference Champion – 10, 11, 12

Gymnastics – Sectional Champion – 10, 12

Times Named to Varsity Sport MVP

Gymnastics – 4

Years Involved in Co-Curricular Activities

Imentor -4

Pep Club – 4

Prom Committee – 3

Civic & Community Activities

Mission Trips June 2015 A selected few from St. Bridget’s Church went to Rosebud Indian reservation in South Dakota. Met with Native Americans and learned all about their culture, history, and how they are treated now. Painted houses, cleaned deserted sheds and areas, assisted at a daycare area, had a cookout meal with the citizens June 2017 Through St. Bridget’s church, went to Cairo Illinois The town is becoming a ghost town, so we did repairs, work around the town and put on a sports camp and kids club for the children of the town Feed My Starving Children July 2013 and September 2015 Donated six hours to bagging and preparing food for people in need of meals in other countries Bagging Groceries December 2015 Spent four hours bagging groceries at Family Fresh in attempt to receive donation tips to help support River Falls Gymnastics. Nursing Homes Numerous times throughout the last 4 years Organized games and assisted the elders in playing bingo Listened to them tell their life stories Put on a talent show to entertain the patients St. Bridget’s Garage Sale June 2015- June 2016 Helped set up garage sale During the event, organized tables and put things back where they belonged after they were misplaced. Running Concessions All throughout 2014-present Ran gymnastics, baseball, volleyball, and track concession stands. Jewelry Sales at St. Bridget May/April 2015- May/April 2016 Arranged jewelry into appropriate places Answered questions about church, and handled money M&M Sales March 2015 & March 2017 Donated time into preparing, advertising, and handing out M&M capsules for St. Bridget’s Church. St. Bridget’s Bible camp July 2017 Led a group of K-1 kids in bible studies and activities all day for a week of the summer Imentor September 2014-present Research and create lesson plans, then go to elementary schools to teach 4th graders about internet safety

College Choice

University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire - Elementary Education


Essay

Over the last four years, I have learned countless lessons from my academic and athletic experiences. One of the important characteristics I’ve taken away is perseverance. It has proved itself very useful in many cases. To never stop or give up until the task is done, is something I will carry with me into the future with everything I do. Teamwork and cooperation are also huge takeaways, which have demonstrated their importance and will continue to do so in the future. Working with people is an important skill for any project, team, or job, and I have been taught how to work with other people to accomplish a common goal and have fun in the meantime. The most important skill that I have learned, in my opinion, is to put my whole heart into everything I do. I want to make the best of every situation, no matter what it may be. The skill of optimism. This is a very important skill, I now look at all challenges with an open mind and hope that it will go well, rather than a negative perspective that things might not work out. Along with optimism, I have been taught to embrace all the small things, and appreciate every moment because it goes by fast. These moments created in high school sports and school are the memories I will keep with me in the future, and these are the lessons I will continue to use for the rest of my life.


Alexis Romero, Brookfield Central High School – 4.0 GPA

Varsity Letters Earned by Grade

Golf – 9, 10, 11, 12

Gymnastics – 9, 10, 11, 12

Track & Field - 9, 10, 11

Individual Sports Achievement

Gymnastics - Conference Champion – 10, 11, 12

Gymnastics – Sectional Champion – 11, 12

Gymnastics – State Champion – 12

Track & Field – Conference Champion – 9, 10, 11

Track & Field – Regional Champion – 9, 10 ,11

Track & Field – Sectional Champion – 11

Team WIAA Success

Golf – Conference Champion – 9, 10, 11, 12

Golf – Regional Champion – 9, 10, 11, 12

Gymnastics – Conference Champion – 10, 11, 12

Gymnastics – Sectional Champion – 10, 11

Times Named to All-Conference First Team

Golf – 2

Gymnastics – 1

Times Named to Varsity Sport MVP

Gymnastics – 1

Years Involved in Co-Curricular Activities

National Honor Society – 2

Spanish Honor Society – 2

Blue Crew – 4

College Choice

University of Minnesota - Actuarial Science


Essay

High school athletics have taught me many things beyond growing my physical strength. I have taken a major lesson from each of the three varsity sports I have been involved in since freshman year. In golf, I learned resilience. Every golfer whether they are a high school athlete or on the PGA Tour will hit bad shots. What makes a golfer good is how well they can forget about a bad shot and move on to the next one knowing that their last shot has nothing to do with their next one. This resilience will allow me to overcome hardships I may endure throughout my lifetime. Gymnastics on the other hand taught me how to have complete focus. Whenever I compete I need to block out a loud gym and focus on each and every skill in order to perform my best. This level of focus helps me outside of the gym in everything I do; it allows me to concentrate on one thing without distractions when necessary so I can get anything done. In addition to resilience and concentration, I have learned tenacity from running track. No matter how tired I am at the end of a 400 meter or 200-meter race I will never give up. I learned how to push through all of the fatigue and pain in order to end up on top. This tenacity will help me later in life because I will never give up on any goal that I strive for.


Anna Wilgren, Hudson High School – 3.87 GPA 

Varsity Letters Earned by Grade

Tennis – 10, 11, 12

Hockey – 9, 10, 11, 12

Track & Field – 10, 11

Individual Sports Achievement

Tennis – Conference Champion – 11, 12

Tennis – Sectional Champion – 11, 12

Track & Field – Conference Champion – 11

Track & Field – Regional Champion – 11

Track & Field – Sectional Champion – 11

Team WIAA Success

Hockey – Conference Champion – 10, 11

Hockey – Regional Champion – 11, 12

Times Named to All-Conference First Team

Hockey – 4

Times Named to Varsity Sport MVP

Tennis – 2

Hockey – 3

Years Involved in Co-Curricular Activities

AMP (Athletes Making Progress) – 2

College Choice

Minnesota State University-Mankato


Essay

The greatest life lessons that I have learned through my high school experience with both athletics and academics are time management and perseverance. While playing 3 sports, it is crucial that you are able to manage your time to balance between practice, homework, friends and family. It can be extremely frustrating when all you want to do is go be with your friends, but know that you have to do your homework and get a good night’s sleep for the next day to do it all over again. I, however, would not change this part of my high school experience for the world. It taught me to persevere through countless late nights of homework and practices. I will use the drive that I have learned throughout high school constantly in my future – whether it is in college when I will have an even busier schedule, in my job or with my family.


Division 2


Skye Digman, Platteville High School– 4.0 GPA

Varsity Letters Earned by Grade

Volleyball – 9, 10, 11, 12

Basketball – 9, 10, 11, 12

Track & Field – 9, 10, 11

Individual Sports Achievement

Track & Field – Conference Champion – 10, 11

Track & Field – Regional Champion – 10, 11

Track & Field – Sectional Champion – 10

Team WIAA Success

Volleyball Conference Champion – 9, 10, 12

Volleyball – Regional Champion – 9, 10

Volleyball – Sectional Champion – 9

Basketball Conference Champion – 10, 11

Basketball – Regional Champion –10, 11, 12

Times Named to All-Conference First Team

Volleyball – 2

Basketball – 2

Times Named to Varsity Sport MVP

Volleyball – 2

Basketball – 2

Years Involved in Co-Curricular Activities

Key Club – 2

Student Council – 2

National Honor Society – 2

FFA – 1

Civic & Community Activities

Community Wide Clean Up – 4

Volunteer Youth Events

Volunteer Summer School

Church Activities Volunteer

Key Club Volunteer – 2

College Choice

University of Wisconsin-La Crosse - Chemistry


Essay

A game-point spike out of bounds. Scratching all throws in sectionals. Losing on a rimmed out free throw. Failing a test. Adversity. I’ve experienced my share on the court, field, and classroom. Learning to overcome adversity is an empowering lesson I’ve learned from athletics and academics that will help me immensely in life. Many times in high school, when faced with a setback, it seemed devastating in that moment. To overcome, I learned to look within myself and decide how I would respond. I worked harder and remained positive. When I injured my right hand during track, I taught myself to throw left-handed. Ultimately, striving to conquer that challenge made me a more focused and humble person. As a student, I worked tirelessly to earn my 4.0. When I didn’t earn a score, I had hoped to, I sought help from teachers and worked to improve my understanding. There were times in athletics and academics when I wanted to resign to adversity and blame others or bad luck, but taking charge of myself helped me move forward. In life, I expect to face truly impactful adversity, but because I know to keep trying, I will continue to reach goals and maintain a healthy mindset. I’ve learned that sometimes, even though I’ve tried my best, I won’t get what I’d hoped for and this is a key to my success. The lessons that will make me successful come from the times I’ve failed, and I’m forever grateful for those experiences.


Rachel Halberg, Hayward High School – 4.0 GPA

Varsity Letters Earned by Grade

Volleyball – 10, 11

Basketball – 9, 10, 11, 12

Soccer – 9, 10, 11

Team WIAA Success

Volleyball – Regional Champion – 10

Basketball Conference Champion – 9, 10, 11, 12

Basketball – Regional Champion – 9, 10, 11, 12

Basketball – Sectional Champion – 9, 10

Basketball – State Champion – 10

Soccer – Conference Champion – 11

Soccer – Regional Champion - 11

Times Named to All-Conference First Team

Soccer – 1

Years Involved in Co-Curricular Activities

National Honor Society – 2 (Vice President; President)

Student Council – 4 (Treasurer; Vice-President)

FCCLA – 3

FCA – 4 (Huddle Leader)

Math League – 4

Link Crew – 1

Civic & Community Activities

Church Youth Group

Hospital volunteer

Birkebeiner volunteer

Youth Sports volunteer

College Choice

University of Mary - Exercise Science


Essay

Of all the lessons sports have taught me (and there are many), one word stands out above the rest: sacrifice. Sacrifice is present in almost every aspect of athletics. Hard work requires me to sacrifice my laziness and relaxation. Teamwork demands that I give up my personal ambitions for those of the team. Having a good attitude means surrendering any selfish or spiteful feelings I may have. Being a leader means being the first to sacrifice in these things, because others will look to follow my example. Sacrificing my time, comfort, and pride for the sake of something greater than myself is a humbling, yet fulfilling experience. Academic success also requires its fair share of sacrifice. Whether it be completing all homework assignments, working hard to understand a concept, or studying late at night after a game, school takes commitment, dedication, and a sense of a greater goal. One of my greater goals is becoming a physical therapist, in order to serve the needs of others. Going through a knee injury and rehabilitation gave me a deeper sense of suffering and empathy. Using this experience, as well as acquired knowledge, I’ll be able to care for patients with compassion. I intend to spend my life serving others in many ways, which necessitates self-sacrifice, just as in athletics and academics. I believe that the benefits of doing so far outweigh the loss, for it is truly in giving that I receive.


Caitlin Link, Edgewood Sacred Heart HS – 3.98 GPA

Varsity Letters Earned by Grade

Volleyball – 10, 11, 12

Basketball – 9, 10, 11, 12

Track & Field – 9, 10, 11

Individual Sports Achievement

Track & Field – Conference Champion – 9, 11

Track & Field – Regional Champion – 9, 10,11

Track & Feld – Sectional Champion – 9, 11

Track & Field – State Champion – 9

Team WIAA Success

Volleyball – Regional Champion – 10

Basketball Conference Champion – 9, 11

Basketball – Regional Champion – 9, 10, 11

Basketball – Sectional Champion –10, 11

Basketball – State Champion – 11

Times Named to All-Conference First Team

Basketball – 2

Times Named to Varsity Sport MVP

Basketball – 1

Track & Field – 2

Years Involved in Co-Curricular Activities

Close Up – 4

Edgewood Honor Society – 2

Civic & Community Activities

Community Service Hours (staffing basketball/volleyball camps)

Edgewood Service Hours

College Choice

Southern Illinois University - Sports Media Journalism


Essay

Throughout my years of being active in sports and attending school, I have fortunately learned many lessons that will help me further in life. My greatest lesson learned would be that hard work pays off. I have put in a great deal of time into my grades for school. I have consistently shown great dedication to my team and coaches for sports, giving endless amounts of hard work leading to success. This will help me further in life because my hard work and fighting mentality have shown me that it could pay off and result in success. Another great lesson I have been fortunate to learn would be that failure can lead to success if you work through it with mental toughness. I’ve experienced many failures in my life, especially when it comes to sports. I’ve fought to earn respect as a person and player, and it took a lot of grit and failure for me to get to that point. It consisted of lots of sweat and tears to earn my outcomes of success, but it became worth it, in the end, causing me to learn from my failures and work for success. This will help me later in life as I will definitely have some bumps and bruises as I continue my academic, personal, athletic, and professional career in the future. I will have learned from the past that if I fight and work for greatness, then the failures will lead to something greater.


Jenna Mace, Wisconsin Dells High School – 3.83 GPA

Varsity Letters Earned by Grade

Volleyball – 10, 11, 12

Basketball – 9, 10, 11, 12

Track & Field – 9, 10, 11

Individual Sports Achievement

Track & Field – Conference Champion – 10,11

Track & Field – Regional Champions – 10

Team WIAA Success

Volleyball – Conference Champion – 10, 12

Basketball – Conference Champion – 10, 11, 12

Basketball – Regional Champion –11, 12

Basketball – Sectional Champion – 12

Times Named to All-Conference First Team

Volleyball – 2

Basketball – 3

Times Named to Varsity Sport MVP

Volleyball – 1

Basketball – 2

Track & Field – 1

Years Involved in Co-Curricular Activities

National Honor Society – 2

College Choice

Wisconsin Lutheran College - Biology/Occupational Therapy


Essay

Throughout my high school athletic/academic career I have learned countless lessons that I will take with me upon graduation. Although, there is one in particular I will carry with me. My junior year of basketball, my team lost in the sectional semi-finals, which was discouraging. During the off season my team made it a priority to work hard on the things we fell short on the previous season and we were determined to come back better than ever. I learned that if you set a goal and don’t succeed you don’t just give up and accept defeat. You need to persevere and look at the things that need improvement in order to become successful. My senior year our team made it further than my school had ever made it before by qualifying for the state championships. My team’s dedication and discipline to improve our skills helped us achieve milestones we can forever be proud of. In life, I will set personal and professional goals. At first I may not succeed and achieve what I set out to do but that doesn’t mean I stop trying. I will learn from my shortcomings and although it may be tempting to give up and feel sorry for myself, I know that if I push through I can achieve anything I put my mind too. 


Division 3


Allyson Nelson, Brookwood High School – 4.0 GPA

Varsity Letters Earned by Grade

Cross Country – 9, 10, 11, 12

Basketball – 9, 10, 11, 12

Track & Field – 9, 10, 11

Individual Sports Achievement

Track & Field – Conference Champion – 9, 10,11

Track & Field – Regional Champions – 9, 10, 11

Team WIAA Success

Cross Country – Conference Champion – 9, 10

Basketball – Conference Champion – 9

Times Named to All-Conference First Team

Cross Country – 3

Basketball – 3

Times Named to Varsity Sport MVP

Cross Country – 3

Basketball – 3

Track & Field – 2

Years Involved in Co-Curricular Activities

Band – 4

Forensics – 3

FCCLA – 4

National Honor Society – 3

Letter Club – 4

Leadership Group – 3

Teens on Fire – 4

Civic & Community Activities

Refereed Youth BBK – 4

Special Olympics – 1

Community Clean Up (Detroit, MI) 1

Community Clean Up (Houston, TX) 1

Rails to Trails Marathon volunteer - 2

Cashton Food Pantry volunteer – 2

College Choice

University of Wisconsin-La Crosse - Biology


Essay

As a student-athlete, I have learned countless lessons from my experiences in school and sports. In the classroom, I have learned the importance of hard work, discipline, and dedication towards my studies. The phrase, nothing worthwhile comes easy, has been the driving force behind my academics. When something was challenging, I have learned to work even harder to achieve what I set out to do. I also learned how it is acceptable to ask questions and seek help when I struggle. The most memorable lesson I have learned is to never settle for being average, but to go above and beyond in order to achieve ultimate academic success. As a three-sport athlete, I have learned three major lessons from athletics that will remain with me the rest of my life. First, nobody is perfect. I am a perfectionist so realizing that I will make many mistakes was a hard, but valuable lesson to learn. Second, life is not fair. I can remember countless times in athletics, particularly basketball games, where I disagreed with a call or found something to be unfair. Learning to accept that things will not always go your way has been crucial in my development. Lastly, enjoy every moment while you are able. As a senior, whose high school career is concluding, I have learned to cherish every opportunity and make the best of every situation. It is through academics and athletics that I have learned life-long lessons that will help me succeed in my future endeavors.


Anika Washburn, Brookfield Academy High School – 4.0 GPA

Varsity Letters Earned by Grade

Tennis – 12

Basketball – 9, 10, 11, 12

Soccer – 9, 10, 11

Team WIAA Success

Basketball Conference Champion – 10, 11, 12

Basketball – Regional Champion – 11

Soccer – Conference Champion – 10, 11

Soccer – Regional Champion – 9, 11

Soccer – Sectional Champion – 9, 11

Soccer – State Champion - 11

Times Named to All-Conference First Team

Basketball – 3

Soccer – 3

Times Named to Varsity Sport MVP

Basketball – 3

Soccer – 3

Years Involved in Co-Curricular Activities

Leadership Award – 4

AP Scholar with Honors – 2

Cum Laude Society – 1

Academic Honor Roll – 4

Gold/Silver Key Scholar – 1

Coding Club – 1 (President)

Yearbook – 4 (Sports Editor)

Service Club – 3 (Event Coordinator)

Chick-fil-A Leadership - 1

Civic & Community Activities

Summer School Program (Assistant & Volunteer)

Soccer Referee

Wisconsin Youth Soccer Assn.

College Choice

Case Western Reserve University or Carnegie Melon University - Computer Science


Essay

I had always dreamed of winning the first Brookfield Academy state championship. Although my sophomore year soccer team was very skillful, we were not connected, and ultimately, this led to a disappointing and early exit from the playoffs. From this experience, I realized that the connections I make with teammates are just as important as the new skills I learn. By forming these bonds, I can create a team chemistry that allows us to push through any obstacle or opponent that we face. I have been able to translate this strength to academics, specifically in my computer science class. In AP Java I have been challenged by difficult tasks, but I have been able to accomplish them by working with my peers. I believe that collaboration between fields of study plays an important role in developing new applications of math and technology. As co-captain my junior year, my main goal was to form strong connections between team members and to encourage playing with passion by setting an example. I planned many successful events that brought the team closer together and allowed the underclassmen to meld with the upperclassmen. As a group of players, we were skillful, but more importantly we played as a team. Our chemistry and passion played a vital role in achieving our lofty goal of winning state. Soccer has taught me that with commitment, passion, and, most of all, teamwork, I can continue to learn and grow as an individual and accomplish even more as a team.


Elise Large, Ozaukee High School – 4.0 GPA

Varsity Letters Earned by Grade

Cross Country – 9, 10, 11, 12

Basketball – 9, 10, 11, 12

Soccer – 9, 10

Track & Field – 11

Individual Sports Achievement

Cross Country – Conference Champion – 11, 12

Cross Country – Sectional Champion – 11, 12

Track & Field – Conference Champion – 11

Track & Field – Regional Champion – 11

Track & Field – Sectional Champion – 11

Track & Field – State Champion – 11

Team WIAA Success

Cross Country – Conference Champion – 12

Soccer – Conference Champion – 9

Soccer – Regional Champion – 9

Times Named to All-Conference First Team

Cross Country – 3

Times Named to Varsity Sport MVP

Cross Country – 3

Basketball – 2

Track & Field – 1

Years Involved in Co-Curricular Activities

Class Officer – 3

National Honor Society – 2

Student Council – 4

FBL – 3

Students Interested – 4

Musical Pit Band – 1

Civic & Community Activities

Fight Against Cancer 5K – organizer

Youth basketball camp

Soccer Tournament referee/scorekeeper

Concession Stand

College Choice

University of Wisconsin-Madison - Biochemistry


Essay

Through my experiences as a student athlete, I have come to appreciate the obvious life lessons of time management, perseverance, and the importance of behaving with respect. Some lessons, however, cover a broader scope, often going unnoticed. It is in the thrill of victory that celebrations draw people together, but only in the throes of defeat did I completely recognize the value of my unfailing support system. I approached my final high school cross country race with high expectations. I prepared to challenge the top runners in Wisconsin for the State Championship. This vision was obliterated. For the first time ever, I fell to the ground. Short of the finish line, I was unable to continue. The first person at my side was my younger sister and teammate, willing to give up her standout finish to help me; I would not let her. My coach rushed to my side as I was taken for medical attention, where my family awaited. After treatment, I exited the tent. Teammates, family, and friends lined the gate with faces screaming of empathy. These moments following my tremendous disappointment proved to be the most revealing. In spite of my defeat, I uncovered an even greater appreciation for the blessings of unconditional support. Even unfamiliar faces, like the gentleman and his young daughter who had “watched all season,” stopped to express admiration. Ultimately, I recognized that the support system that athletics has developed for me is far richer than any gold medal.


Erika Kisting, Iola-Scandinavia High School – 3.94 GPA

Varsity Letters Earned by Grade

Cross Country – 9, 10, 11, 12

Basketball –11, 12

Track & Field – 9, 10, 11

Individual Sports Achievement

Cross Country – Conference Champion – 11, 12

Cross Country – Sectional Champion – 12

Track & Field -  Conference Champion – 10, 11

Track & Field – Regional Champion – 9, 10, 11

Track & Field – Sectional Champion – 9, 10, 11

Track & Field – State Champion – 10

Times Named to All-Conference First Team

Cross Country – 4

Times Named to Varsity Sport MVP

Cross Country – 3

Track & Field – 3

Years Involved in Co-Curricular Activities

National Honor Society – 3 (Vice President)

Student Council – 3

Leos _ 4 (President)

Class Officer – 3 (Secretary)

Bowling – 4

Band – 4

Civic & Community Activities

Car Show volunteer – 4

Lutefisk Dinner – 4

County Fair – 2

Fun Runs – 2

Leadership Seminar – 1

Down Under Track & Field -1

Corn Roast volunteer – 2

Concession Stand volunteer – 3

Church Picnic volunteer – 4

Church Card Party volunteer – 3

Pancake Breakfast – 2

Easter Party – 3

Toys for Tots – 4

Lambeau Field Concessions – 1

College Choice

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee - Architecture


Essay

As a student athlete, most would say that their greatest lesson is that good grades and hard work are the passport to be able to do that which you love, sports. Although this is true, it is not the greatest lesson learned. I have realized of over the years, especially my senior year that you must create the passion for what you do and lead others to follow. Being the only senior or one of the very few on the team it is challenging to get the most wins because the team has to regrow. In this situation, the focus is not on the wins but more on creating a passion for the team to nourish and expand upon. There are times when one will face the difficulty of not having the advantage. It’s important to lead through the obstacles and find what makes the team unite so they can get through the obstacles. This will help in any situation, not only in high school sports, but life in general. Time will bring disadvantages, or bumps in the road, where you must buckle in and fight through it. It is important to stay focused, be positive and have a passion for whatever task is at hand. In the end, the hard work and the dedication will all be worth it.


Girls Division 4


Emma Lawrence, Benton High School – GPA 4.0

Varsity Letters Earned by Grade

Volleyball – 9, 10, 11, 12

Basketball - 9, 10, 11, 12

Track & Field - 9, 10, 11

Individual Sports Achievement

Track & Field – Conference Champion – 9, 10, 11

Track & Field – Regional Champion – 9, 10,11

Track & Feld – Sectional Champion – 9, 10, 11

Track & Field – State Champion – 11

Team WIAA Success

Volleyball –Conference Champion – 11, 12

Volleyball – Regional Champion – 11, 12

Volleyball – Sectional Champion - 12

Basketball – Conference Champion – 9

Times Named to All-Conference First Team

Volleyball – 3

Basketball – 4

Times Named to Varsity Sport MVP

Volleyball – 2

Basketball – 1

Years Involved in Co-Curricular Activities

Forensics – 2

School Play/Musical – 2

Class Officer – 4 (President)

School Newspaper – 1

Spanish Club – 1

Pep Club – 4

National Honor Society – 3

Student Council – 4

Yearbook – 1

Civic & Community Activities

Church volunteer

Athletic Booster Club volunteer

Football statistician

Youth basketball camp volunteer

Red Cross blood drive

HS office summer volunteer

Special Education classroom volunteer

PK Classroom helper

7th grade boys’ basketball volunteer coach

College Choice

University of Wisconsin-La Crosse - Biology


Essay

My experiences as a student-athlete have taught me to always strive for success, welcome competition into my life, and give 100% of my effort. I strive for perfection in any work I do; this attribute has helped me find success in both academics and athletics. I’ve learned to embrace competition and allow it to help me become a better person. The dedication it takes to be successful has taught me the value of giving 100%. The emotions athletics bring are tough, but the lows make the highs even greater. The mental strength I have gained from being a fierce competitor will assist me in my future. A day of school, practice, and other extracurriculars leave minimal time to study at night. However, it is those times that have taught me the importance of organization and time management. Learning to persevere through things that aren’t enjoyable but are necessary, is a life lesson I’ve gained from being a student-athlete. The opportunities I’ve received at Benton High School, academically and athletically, have been nothing short of incredible. The experiences I’ve had as a leader in the classroom, on the court, and in the community, have significantly prepared me for my future. Both academics and athletics have taught me to persevere, set high standards, and to always be committed and work hard. I have most definitely applied each of those skills to my daily life. Being a student-athlete has ultimately made me a more accepting, positive, and hardworking individual.



Carly Vandenhouten, Lourdes Academy High School – 4.0 GPA 

Varsity Letters Earned by Grade

Cross Country – 9, 10, 11, 12

Track & Field – 9, 10, 11

Individual Sports Achievement

Cross Country – Conference Champion – 10

Track & Field – Conference Champion – 9, 10, 11

Track & Field – Regional Champion – 10, 11

Track & Field – Sectional Champion – 10, 11

Track & Field – State Champion – 10, 11

Team WIAA Success

Cross Country – Conference Champion – 9, 10, 11

Cross Country – Sectional Champion – 9, 10, 11, 12

Cross Country – State Champion – 9, 10

Times Named to All-Conference First Team

Cross Country -2

Times Named to Varsity Sport MVP

Cross Country – 1

Years Involved in Co-Curricular Activities

International Club – 4

Math League – 4

Catholic Athletes – 1

Halo – 2

College Choice

Winona State University - Mathematics


Essay

Opportunities and experiences bring perspective. Is that not what every moment of life is about? During my senior year of the Cross-Country season, that was the test I was presented with as I suffered from a stress fracture in my lower tibia and was unable to run for five weeks. Instead of viewing this as a season-ending injury, I continued to keep up a high level of fitness by using alternative training methods, having my eyes set on being able to race the last meets of the season. I did, in fact, achieve this goal as I competed at the WIAA Sectional and WIAA State Championship meets. While being sidelined from running for 38 days, nearly half of the entire season, I viewed this as an opportunity to build my strength and rediscover my love for running. I discovered deep down I have persistence and dedication even when situations are difficult. If I were to be completely honest with myself, of course I would take away my injury and experience the stellar season I dreamed of; however, I look back and realize I learned so much more in injury than in health. This injury showed me I run not only for the love of the sport but to test my limits. This has prepared me for life in the long run to always take a step back and change my perspective, to not initially view anything as negative but as an opportunity for growth. I have experienced things that not many high school athletes experience. I aspire to be the best version of myself at all times, even when things are not going my way.


Brianna Leahy, Shullsburg High School – 3.88 GPA

Varsity Letters Earned by Grade

Volleyball – 9, 10, 11

Basketball - 9, 10, 11, 12

Track & Field - 9, 10, 11

Individual Sports Achievement

Track & Field – Conference Champion – 9, 10, 11

Track & Field – Regional Champion – 10, 11

Track & Field – Sectional Champion – 11

Team WIAA Success

Basketball Conference Champion – 9, 10, 11, 12

Basketball – Regional Champion – 11, 12

Times Named to All-Conference First Team

Basketball – 4

Times Named to Varsity Sport MVP

Basketball – 3

Years Involved in Co-Curricular Activities

FFA – 4 (Parliamentarian, Treasurer)

Class Officer 4 (President)

National Honor Society – 3

S-Club – 4

Pep Club – 2

Civic & Community Activities

Youth basketball tournament volunteer

Blood Drive

Nursing home volunteer

Salvation Army volunteer

PTA

4th of July events

Canyon Cap

Mini Miner Olympics

Royce Lyne Alumni Basketball tournament

Church volunteer

Senior Citizen Dinner volunteer

Veterans Day Dinner volunteer

College Choice

University of Wisconsin-River Falls - Agricultural Business


Essay

In the moment, I thought the most important part was not forgetting the play or to use the whole circle in a throw, but as I look back at the last four years on and off the court, it was the life lessons learned that I am most grateful for. Basketball is the sport I found the greatest passion in and devoted the most time to. The countless hours in the gym taught me invaluable lessons. The hard work and dedication I put into my game to enjoy the bliss of scoring my 1000th point, grabbing my 1000th rebound, and becoming the program’s all-time leading scorer is unforgettable. The teamwork I have been a part of achieved four conference championships, two regional finals, and two sectional final appearances and will empower me to succeed in my future. This hard work and dedication also taught me that the time and effort I put into something is the experience and success I will get out of it. However, I couldn’t have these accomplishments without failure. Missing the game winning shot, airballing a free throw, and fouling out of multiple games are just some of the failures experienced. Defeat is more important to me than success because how I handle failure will contribute to my future and whether or not I bounce back or fall harder. High school athletics are more than just throwing a round ball in a hoop; sports gave me valuable lessons that will help me strive for greatness in my future.


McKenzie Baeseman, Royall High School – 3.83 GPA

Varsity Letters Earned by Grade

Volleyball – 9, 10, 11, 12

Basketball - 9, 10, 11, 12

Track & Field - 9, 10

Softball – 11

Individual Sports Achievement

Track & Field – Conference Champion – 10

Track & Field – Regional Champion – 9

Team WIAA Success

Volleyball –Conference Champion – 9, 10, 11, 12

Volleyball – Regional Champion – 9, 10, 12

Times Named to All-Conference First Team

Volleyball – 4

Basketball – 3

Times Named to Varsity Sport MVP

Volleyball – 2

Basketball – 1

Years Involved in Co-Curricular Activities

National Honor Society – 2

Student Council – 4

Madrigal – 4

Pep Band – 4

Musical – 3/3 – 3

Civic & Community Activities

Children Ministry Volunteer

Worship Team – 4

Youth worship leader – 4

Worship Team Leader intern – 4

Grand Friends – 1

Highway Clean Up – 2

Reading Books – 2

Public Library volunteer

College Choice

Hillsong College - Music


Essay

Being a student athlete has been very challenging but also very rewarding. There are so many things it has taught me that will help me throughout the rest of my life. First, I have really learned what it means to be a leader. Being a leader on many different kinds of teams has proved to be challenging at times, but also a great learning experience. It taught me how to be encouraging and bring out the best in people, work together as a whole, and always stay positive. Another thing being a student athlete has taught me is time management. Being in three sports, school, several extracurricular activities, as well as many out of school activities has really kept me busy throughout high school. I learned how to prioritize and how to really make time for what is important. Probably the most important thing I learned during my time as a student athlete would be people skills. Learning how to work with so many different personalities of teammates and different coaching styles can be really challenging at times. Being able to overcome differences and bring out strengths in people has really helped our teams to be successful. Being involved in sports has really helped make me into the person I am today and the things I have learned will continue to help me throughout life.