PITMAN--There's no doubt the NJAC boasts some extremely talented athletes but we want fans to know that there's more to these athletes than just their accomplishments on the field, court, etc. The NJAC Student-Athlete Spotlight highlights one student-athlete each Friday.
The NJAC Student-Athlete Spotlight for the week ending November 30th comes to us from The College of New Jersey. A sophomore field hockey and lacrosse player from Holland, PA, Kelly Schlupp is currently pursuing a degree in Special Education.
Name: Kelly Schlupp
Instituion: The College of New Jersey
Year: Sophomore
Sport: Field Hockey, Lacrosse
Hometown, State: Holland, PA
High School: Council Rock High School South
Major: Special Education/MST
What made you choose your institution?
It has a wonderful education program along with a successful field hockey and lacrosse program. I wanted a college that would challenge me. I also loved the coaching staff and girls on the team.
What made you want to become a DIII collegiate athlete?
I always knew I wanted to continue playing sports in college, but I also wanted to be able to focus on school. I also loved the idea I could play field hockey and lacrosse instead of picking just one.
What was your first memory of playing your sport?
I was in middle school begging my coach to let me play goalie. She said no because I was too tiny...eventually she let me try it and it stuck ever since.
What has been the greatest or most memorable moment of your experience as a collegiate athlete?
Post Season! This post season in field hockey has been so exciting from beating Rowan to winning NJACs to making it to the Final Four.
Do you have any pre-game rituals? If so, what are they?
The team has many rituals we like to do, but my favorite is all the sophomores going to the locker room early and having a dance party.
What famous athlete do you look up to?
Erin Waller- while she may not be famous to the world, she's pretty famous in D3 field hockey and lacrosse. She is the hardest working athlete I know, not to mention has killer speeches. She is always willing to help her teammates on and off the field. She inspires people a lot more than she realizes.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Hopefully I will be teaching special education and coaching field hockey and lacrosse. Five years is a long time away, kind of scary to think about.
What is your favorite part of competing in the NJAC?
The friendships I have made while playing sports in college. The friendships I have made will last a lifetime, they're my best friends.
What is your biggest accomplishment OFF the field, court, etc.?
Getting into The College of New Jersey
Quick facts about Kelly...
Can't live without: Family (including my dog Taylor), friends, and the beach
Favorite movie: The Lion King
Favorite class you've ever taken: Children's Literature, I love love love to read
Favorite food: BLT
Biggest Fear: FOMO (fear of missing out)
Favorite musical artist: Anything country!
*The NJAC Student-Athlete Spotlight deadline is every Friday by 10:00 AM. Fill out the survey and you could be selected!