By Mitch Streufert
Q: Kyle, which one are you more proud of: Freedom Hall hero or Homecoming King?
A: I knew you were going to ask me that. Wow, both are special to me in their own ways. One is basketball-related and one is school-related. And there is no way I could pick one or the other.
Q: What was the first thing that went through your mind when your heard your name called for Homecoming King?
A: Well, honestly, the first thing that went through my mind was coming back to practice and hearing all the jokes from my teammates and coaches.
Q: Did you know you were going to win before your name was called?
A: I had no idea. But one of my close friends won it last year. Somehow my girlfriend figured out I had won and texted me right before the ceremony that I didn’t win, told me to be a good sport and just have fun with the experience. So, obviously, I was surprised when my name was called.
Q: Why is service in the community important to you? And what makes service enjoyable for you?
A: Just that when people think of a student athlete, people just think they’re skating by. That’s not how I want to be viewed at all. And it’s easy for me because I love helping other people.
Q: How are you able to be successful in the classroom as a full-time student athlete?
A: It’s extremely difficult for anyone. And, for me, it took a whole year to figure out how to keep up with my studies. I have to manage my time. So, whether it’s on an airplane or bus or in the hotel, I’m doing my homework.
Q: Any advice for your fellow student athletes on how to be successful in the classroom?
A: The hardest thing for some people to admit is that they need help. As an athlete, we get so many advantages. And lots of people don’t take advantage. If you need a tutor, go get one.
