Academy names Athletes of the Month
CULVER — Will Ruszkowski, Ksenia Gainey, and Tyler Li have been awarded Culver academy's October 2023 Student-athletes of the Month.
Will Ruszkowski is a four-year member of the CMA cross-country team. He finished 6th place at Regionals in a very competitive field and qualified for the IHSAA state tournament finals with a 16:02 personal best. Will became the 6th fastest cross country runner of all time at CMA this year in a program that has had historical success for decades
"What makes Will unique as a runner is that he is a true student of the sport. He is deeply educated in running physiology, training and recovery, nutrition and hydration, and race preparation," assistant coach Ramsey Bradke said. "This has given him a competitive edge and allows him to view his sport as a lifestyle rather than just a time of day."
Head coach Dana Neer and Bradke said Will is an excellent student, pursuing a medical degree after Culver.
"Will has worked hard for and earned everything he's accomplished as a runner and a student," Bradke said. "I am looking forward to seeing him continue to improve in the winter, compete in indoor and outdoor track season as a senior, and see where he decides to study medicine and run in college."
Ksenia Gainey is a three-year member of the CGA cheerleading team.
"Ksenia is a remarkable student who has dedicated her past three fall sports seasons to being the ultimate cheerleader at every football game, rain or shine," head coach Kelley Bowers said.
Bowers said that Gainey brings an unwavering positive attitude to every game. She motivates the team and fans to give their all putting others before herself. She brings new ideas to the table and makes sure the team is all working towards bettering themselves
"Ksenia's commitment to the team is unmatched," Bowers said. "In addition to her spirited presence on the sidelines, she holds multiple leadership positions in school, showing her dedication and passion for helping others in various ways. Her boundless enthusiasm and encouragement have left an indelible mark on the Culver cheer program, making her an inspiration to all." Tyler Li is a two-year member of the CMA tennis team. "Tyler is a great example of how the current game of tennis is played in terms of court coverage, point management, and stroke production," head coach alan Loehr said. "His outstanding play and court demeanor put Culver in the very best light and secures for our school an excellent reputation among players, coaches, school administrators, parents and fans."
as #1 singles and co-captain, Li led the team to the state semifinals and a final ranking in the top 5. He finished the season 29-1, losing in the individual state tournament semifinals in three sets. Li's career record at the #1 singles position of 53-3; 2 of those losses to the eventual state champion and one to the 2022 runner-up. He is First Sergeant, Company B
"Tyler has an exceptional mix of the ability to be analytical of our systems, be an effective and accountable leader, and have broad-ranging social relationships," CMA Counselor Kirk Brown said. "He is both liked and respected by his peers, and he is always willing to lend a helping hand. He is one of Company B's highest-ranking juniors and is a straight-a student."