UMAC Wednesday Profile - Rylee Weisensel and Kelsey Wattenhofer
ST. PAUL, Minn.---Each Wednesday throughout the year, the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) is featuring student-athletes in its UMAC Wednesday Profile. Student-athletes share their perspective on being a student-athlete at their institution, in the UMAC and in Division III.
This week features volleyball player Rylee Weisensel from Martin Luther and women's golfer Kelsey Wattenhofer from Minnesota Morris.
*Photo Credits Martin Luther and Minnesota Morris Sports Information
Rylee Weisensel - Martin Luther College
Sr., Volleyball and Track & Field
New Ulm, Minn./Valley Lutheran High School
Major(s): Elementary education and Physical education
Describe yourself in one word.
Determined
What do you love most about being a student-athlete at Martin Luther?
I know that I can connect with my teammates about more than just the game. They are my family.
Tell us about a unique experience you've had as a student at Martin Luther.
I got the opportunity to sit in a classroom in Peoria Arizona that had eight students in the classroom. They were in grades 2-4, and I got to participate in the classroom and connect with some great kids.
Who has been the most influential on your athletics career and why?
My mom, because she has always encouraged me to do what I love. She has always been there for me and helped me when I have been hurt or am just struggling.
What is the greatest lesson you've learned from being a student-athlete?
I have learned how to balance school and sports. I had to learn how to manage my time very well during the season, and it carried over into the rest of my life.
FUN FACTS
| Pre-game warm up song? |
Undefeated by Skillet |
| Favorite food? |
Chicken Alfredo |
| Dream Destination? |
Hawaii or the Caribbean |
| Favorite Professional Athlete? |
Kerri Walsh-Jennings |
| Favorite class? |
Interpersonal Communication |
| Dream job? |
Physical Education Teacher |
| Favorite movie? |
Captain America |
| Favorite phone app? |
Pinterest |
| Favorite holiday? |
Christmas |
| Favorite quote/motto? |
"For success, attitude is equally as important as ability." -Unknown |
Kelsey Wattenhofer - University of Minnesota Morris
Sr., Golf
Litchfield, Minn./Litchfield Senior High School
Major(s): Sports Management/ Business Management
Describe yourself in one word.
Determined
What does it mean to you to be a Division III student-athlete??
It is part of my identity. I am very proud to be a Division III, three-sport athlete.
Tell us about an experience you've had as a student at Minnesota Morris?
I have studied abroad in Australia. I traveled to two cities, Sydney and Melbourne studying sports culture. We toured both Olympic stadiums, learned of Aboriginal culture and AFL (Australian Football League). By far, one of the best experiences I have ever had.
What is the greatest lesson you have learned so far from being a college athlete?
Sometimes you have to sacrifice something today in order to reach your goals in the end. Balancing work, school and sports is not easy to do but learning how to balance all of them is a great life skill to have.
Who has been the most influential on your athletics career and why?
My mother. My mom started the women's golf team at Morris and has yet to miss one of my collegiate events. She encourages me to be better both on and off the course and I wouldn't be the golfer I am without her.
FUN FACTS
| Pre-game warm up song? |
Bon Jovi - Livin on a Prayer |
| Favorite food? |
Spaghetti |
| Dream Destination? |
Germany |
| Favorite Professional Athlete? |
Kyle Rudolph |
| Favorite class? |
Sign Language |
| Dream job? |
Sports Marketing for a Professional team |
| Favorite movie? |
Favorite TV show is Friends, I don't have a favorite movie. |
| Favorite phone app? |
Snapchat |
| Favorite holiday? |
Christmas |
| Favorite quote/motto? |
Everything Happens for a Reason |
2017-18 Wednesday Wrap Archives