Co-Student Athlete of the Week Kailey Kopacz

     If the success of a program is defined by individual and team awards, Oswego East’s girls bowling team has an argument to be number 1.  The lady wolves have placed in the top ten four times at state since 2006, including two second place finishes.  This season the lady wolves have the highest expectations, having placed second as a team and first individually.   Luckily, Kailey Kopacz returns as a senior leader to continue the girls bowling tradition of excellence. 

     As a senior captain, Kailey has been asked to take a much bigger role this year, one which fits her personality perfect.  “I’m always interested in helping out any teammates in practice,” says Kailey.  Coach Jeremy Hillman has watched and helped Kailey come into her own the past four years.  “Kailey can adjust and has the confidence within herself that she can score on any shot. This is something that comes with maturity and experience and Kailey is using both,” remarks Hillman. 

     As far as Kailey’s leadership style, Hillman remarked “[though] she is not the most vocal, she leads through example. As a person, Kailey is patient, focused and compassionate.”  Despite being a team first person, Kailey has used her skills to dominate the field this year.  Kailey has a 196 average, and shot a season high 289 just a few weeks ago.  Her personal goals include improving upon her 18th place finish at state last year.

     Kailey’s abilities have not gone unnoticed by scouts.  Kailey will be attending Robert Morris University on a bowling scholarship and majoring in culinary arts.  Fortunately for Kailey, Oswego East’s culinary program has afforded her the opportunity to get a jump start on her academics.  Kailey has recently completed restaurant management, which will undoubtedly give her a leg up on her peers upon entering college.