Athlete Profile: Kiley Rusch

SHAWANO — The Shawano Community High School girls golf team has enjoyed a strong fall season, with senior Kiley Rusch helping the team to several strong finishes.

Rusch serves as Shawano’s No. 1 golfer, matching up with the best golfers opposing teams have to offer, but that hasn’t stopped the Hawks’ senior from posting strong scores this season.

Rusch, a four-year player for Shawano, posted an 18-hole round of 102 for the team’s top score at the Marinette Marines Invitational on Sept. 12. It helped the Hawks to a fourth-place finish as a team.

One of the seniors best conference meets of the season came on Aug. 27, when she posted five pars on her way to a nine-hole round of 50.

“She brings a positive attitude to the course every day, and has been the leader of the team for the past two years,” said Shawano golf coach Dean Kugler. “She represents Shawano with class, and has played in the No. 1 spot the last two years. I always feel that our girls are some of the best that our school has to offer, and Kiley has continued that tradition.

“She has been an integral part of our junior golf program as well, helping every year instructing our young people during the summer. She will be missed by not only us, but the conference, because she is a favorite of many of the other coaches as well.”

Q: When did your interest in golf begin?

A: My interest in golf began my freshman year of high school. I’m not entirely sure what encouraged me to join the golf team, but it is a decision I am forever grateful for.

Q: What is your favorite part about the golf season?

A: Getting close with my teammates again. During the school year, we separate but when golf comes we are inseparable. Another thing is being outside all the time, getting out of school to be outside on a nice day is amazing.

Q: How did you prepare for the golf season?

A: This summer, I spent most of my time on the golf course. Just to get out there and practice and work on some things really helped me get into the groove of this season.

Q: As the season nears postseason play, what are some things that you and the team are hoping to achieve?

A: This year, we are hoping to lower our scores to help our standings in the conference. Personally, I would also love to lower my scores by working on my short game.

Q: Your team is comprised of a lot of experienced upperclassmen, so just what has it been like to play with those girls over your high school career?

A: Over these years, we have all grown close and we have all learned a lot from each other. Seeing each other grow in golf was amazing and personally I will miss the team a lot.

Q: What’s your favorite memory of competing on the Shawano golf team?

A: Some of my favorite memories are when we stop for food in the morning before the meets and the bus rides home. We would always talk about the day of golf and play music loud enough to annoy coach Kugler.

Q: What are you going to miss most about high school golf?

A: Making so many new friends. These past few years I have gotten really close with the other players on the other teams in the conference.

Q: Favorite TV show, movie and musical artist?

A: TV Show — “The Office.” Movie — “50 First Dates.” Musical Artist — Post Malone.

Q: Name one thing about yourself that not many people know.

A: That I really enjoy reading.

Q: What’s the greatest piece of advice you have ever been told?

A: To not let one mistake define your life.

Q: What are some things you hope to accomplish after graduating from high school?

A: After high school, I will be going to college or tech school for business. I wish to have my own flower/gift shop one day.

AT A GLANCE

Athlete: Kiley Rusch

Sport: Girls golf

School: Shawano Community High School

Year: Senior