On December 7, 2011, the entire student body was invited to the auditorium to learn the recipient of the KDKA Extra Effort Award. After a short pep rally which included an introductory performance by the band, a dance from the Hawk mascots, and a reflection on the Fall Sports Season by Athletic Director, Mrs. Scheuneman, KDKA’s Bob Pompeani proudly stood before all and announced the name of Kelsey Metheny.
Recently, I interviewed Kelsey Metheny and she shared her input on receiving this eminent award. The detailed interview reveals what the KDKA Extra Effort Award is about, how the KDKA Extra Effort Award was presented, and Kelsey Metheny’s intriguing personality.
Me: “What exactly is the Extra Effort Award and how were you nominated?”
Kelsey: “The Extra Effort award is given out once a week to a high school athlete in the WPIAL area. Though I was not told when I received the award who nominated me, I have reason to believe it had something to do with our counseling department. I am very grateful for their kindness.”
Me: “What does the Extra Effort Award recognize? Does it recognize athletics or a combo of athletics and academics?”
Kelsey: “It is a combination. Athletics is definitely a component, but it also has a lot to do with academics and community service. They are looking for well-rounded people I believe.”
Me: “What kind of recognition did you receive? Did you get a check or plaque?”
Kelsey: “Well, I can see how it appears I received a check, being they handed it to me. The check actually goes to the Bethel Park Athletic Department. I am not eligible to receive monetary awards due to NCAA rules. I did receive a really nice plaque though with my name on it. And we had that assembly which was pretty incredible. Though I have never wanted that much attention drawn to my accomplishments, (especially when I can name a handful of other kids who were just as deserving as me) that assembly was awesome. The decoration and the band really made things special.”
Me: “Who is Kelsey Metheny as a student? What is your GPA? What are your college plans, career plans, and what are some accomplishments you have achieved throughout high school?”
Kelsey: “Academics is my number one priority and I think it is what I am most proud of. I have always had to work hard to do well. I still study for every test and always do my homework. I believe my GPA is a 4.5. Future plans…. I have very recently accepted Pitt’s scholarship offer to run. It was a very unexpected decision, because I had not considered Pitt an option before they began recruiting (I live in a family full of mountaineer fans). Pitt is a great school and will have a lot to offer. I am excited about my decision. As for what I want to be… that changes daily. As of now, I applied as an engineer, but who knows what I will end up doing.”
Me: “Who is Kelsey Metheny as an athlete? What sports do you play, and what are some of your major accomplishments? Do you plan on playing any sports in college?”
Kelsey: “I run cross country, indoor track and outdoor track. It took me a long time to realize I was good at running and that there was not another sport out there I was good at. I would like to take this opportunity and let the cat out of the bag. I was not a state champion at anything. Somehow Mr. Pompeani was misinformed. I have, however, received a medal at states with my relay team. I have competed at the state level multiple times and improved my cross country time this year by a good 40 seconds. This year I got 7th at our WPIAL Championships, which I am very proud of. And yes, I will be running at Pitt with my beloved current teammate Hillary Boxheimer. It will be great to continue my running career with her.”
Me: “Who is Kelsey Metheny as a person? What do you do in your free time? What are some of your hobbies? Do you have a favorite book or movie?”
Kelsey: “Lets see… I am National Honor Society president this year which has been a lot of fun. I have a great board and we have had a successful year thus far. With that said, everyone go to glow fest January 14. It will be a blast! In my free time…. well when I am not running or studying I enjoy spending time with my friends and family. I do not have any exciting hobbies or secret talents, unfortunately. I do not think I have a favorite book, but I did just recently finish the Hunger Games series. I am counting down the days until the movie premiere. I loved it.”
