HIGH SCHOOL

Oak Harbor’s DeWalt practices with big picture in mind

Matthew Horn
Reporter

Oak Harbor’s Karis DeWalt has never been one to go to practice because she needs something to do or because she’s supposed to. DeWalt practices with a purpose.

That’s not going to change as DeWalt continues her soccer career at the University of Findlay.

“At about 10 or 11, I decided soccer was my sport,” she said. “I was blessed with some amazing coaches who taught me my position and how to see the field and how to anticipate. It wasn’t just going to practice — I wanted to get better.

“I set the bar higher each season. I kept challenging myself.”

DeWalt knows what she wants off the field as well.

“I’ve liked Findlay since I was a freshman with the size of the classes,” she said. “Academically, it was a dream in my eyes and when I had an opportunity with soccer it was a perfect package. I seem to do better in school when I’m playing a sport.

“My goal is to become a stronger person, player and athlete, and make it into their elite physical therapy program. I want to have fun with the sport I fell in love with years ago. I’m not expecting anything. I’ll work hard and get as far as I can.”

That attitude allowed DeWalt to ascend as Sandusky Bay Conference Player of the Year as a senior.

“She has great ball-handling skills,” Rockets coach Renee Goldstein said. “She can read the field and she’s fast.”

Goldstein also saw DeWalt’s work ethic. DeWalt was reluctant to take risks early in her varsity career but she gained confidence and learned to trust herself.

“When she first came, she was a little leery to carry past mid-field,” Goldstein said. “(Later) she’d drive right down and cross. When she came in her skill was evident instantly. The first time she stepped out there, you knew she’d be a player.

“You knew she was special. She’s an amazing player and great leader. I’ll miss her.”

The goal scorers are often the ones who stand out in soccer. DeWalt is proud she was noticed for her prowess, stopping people from scoring.

She also will remember her team’s success.

“As a defender, you hardly ever get that kind of recognition,” she said. “To have that (Player of the Year) title meant so much to me. Going to the Final Four my junior year was priceless. As a team, you never know what you can do with a group of girls.”

Oak Harbor earned three outright league titles and shared a fourth with DeWalt.

“I’ll look back and remember how amazing the group of girls were,” she said. “We meshed and we all loved the sport. There are 11 on the field and several on the bench. You need them all to make a team.

“That’s the fun part. I’ll remember our hard work and dedication.”

DeWalt is proof you can enjoy practice while making the most of every minute.

mhorn@gannett.com

419-734-7519

Twitter: @MatthewHornNH