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Senior Student Athlete Profile: Karli Kawlewski (New York Mills)

By Craig Olson, 05/05/20, 8:45AM CDT

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As Karli Kawlewski wraps up her high school career at New York Mills, she does so with some great memories of accomplishments in her three sports, softball, volleyball and basketball, which have helped her deal with the strange ending to her senior year.

“I have been reflecting on all of the positive softball memories and accomplishments I have been a part of throughout my high school days, and using that to remind myself of the good,” acknowledged Kawlewski.  “Beating Frazee in nine innings, 10-9, last year during playoffs and then heading to the state tournament for the seventh time in a row is one of my top softball memories, but there are many, including winning state titles in 2017 and 2018.  In basketball, upsetting Ada-Borup in the first round of playoffs this season is a top highlight.  As for volleyball, winning the section title in 2018 to qualify for the state tournament is a great memory!”

“Karli has been a major asset for our Mills Volleyball Program for several years,” reported Head Volleyball Coach Tammy Olson.  “She pushed herself and her teammates in season and out of season to be the best that they could be. She was a “go-to hitter” that other teams had to worry about.  Less glorifying, she was one of our best passers for years and without that, your team doesn’t survive.  She also picked up over 1000 digs.  I am not exaggerating when I say she was one of the best well-rounded players to come out of New York Mills. She will truly be missed.”

Kawlewski is going to attend Jamestown University in North Dakota and will major in Elementary Education.  She is going to be a member of the Jimmies Volleyball team.  Her favorite high school subjects were History and English.

“Karli has been a well-rounded softball player that has played multiple positions well over her high school career,” said Girls’ Basketball Head Coach Bryan Dunrud. “Karli mainly played left field and 2nd base over her high school career, but also played catcher, short stop, and pitched which she was preparing to do this season. While Karli is a solid defensive player, Karli's bat was one of the best in Class A softball. Karli hits for both power and average and came up with numerous clutch hits throughout her high school career. Karli has been a huge impact player and a key part of our success. Karli also was a team first player that would play any position necessary for our team to be successful, which also shows the type of person Karli is and the character she has. In basketball, Karli was a solid defender and rebounder that oftentimes guarded the best post player. Karli's greatest strength in basketball was her knowledge of the game and her ability to make others around her better.”      

“Being in sports has helped shape my character my whole life,” noted Kawlewski.  “It has helped me understand the importance of working hard and teamwork, and made me mentally tougher.”

Karli offers this advice to underclassmen, “live in the moment and cherish the memories.  Be present in everything you do and never wish it away!”