Cobra senior commits to Baylor

From left are Kelsey's coaches, Jenna Treybig, Van Pelt and Kristy Bradford.

    Industrial Cobra Kelsey Van Pelt recently signed with the University of Mary Hardin Baylor to play basketball. As a top player on the Cobra team, her skills and talent will surely follow her into her college career. Kelsey is the high point scorer in most of the games she plays.
    She was first contacted in late August by the Head Coach at UMHB, who spoke with her trainer first. In the middle of September she went on her first official visit and verbally committed to playing on Sept. 19.
    Kelsey said she wants to first thank her family for everything they've done for her. "They are my support system and I would be anywhere close to where I am now with their constant support and encouragement," she said. "I'd also like to thank my coaches. They have truly impacted my life, on and off the court. They spend countless hours trying to make each and every one of us better and I am very grateful for their hard work."
    She said she's looking forward to seeing what role she will assume on the 2016-17 Crusader basketball team and how much it differs from her high school team. She's also looking forward to the college atmosphere in general, which is sure to be great.
     Kelsey plans on majoring in Pre-Physical Therapy and has been interested in it every since she visited one in 2013. "The ability to help people that are recovering from injuries or surgeries is amazing and something I want to be a part of. I would like to eventually specialize in the field, but plan to start off as a general physical therapist."
     She also wants to thank her teammates. "They have truly made every team meal, practice, and game memorable. They are such a great support system and I would not be in the position I am today without them. Finally, I would like to thank my trainer. He has had me out on the track and in the gym for countless hours trying to make me a better athlete and person. He has taught me the value of hard work and how it pays off in the long run and I am so thankful for the opportunity to work with him."
     Someone Kelsey has looked up to over the years is Davidson University's Steph Curry. "His ability to score the ball off the dribble and driving to the basket is remarkable. He is such a fundamentally sound basketball player and an all around good person."
     Kelsey's Cobra basketball coach, Kristy Bradford, said she is great young lady who loves her team and loves doing well for them. "She is first a Christian and it shows in her life!  She is excited for everyone else before herself, meaning, she wants everyone else to be super successful and hopes the best for them even before she allows herself to want that.   She feels like she is carrying them on her shoulders and NEVER wants to let them down.  The girls works hard and set out to play basketball in college.  She has achieved that goal and isn’t looking back but forward to God’s best for her!  She has an unbelievable work ethic and never gives up.  I am excited to get to coach her this season and ecstatic for her future as a Crusader!"