Go-To Girl (Alison Kusler)
April 05, 2010 6:02 PM
Our Taco John's Athlete of the Week led Aberdeen Central to a volleyball championship and a trip to the state basketball tournament this season. Alison Kusler is just one of those special athletes that can always lift her team when it matters.
Aberdeen Central had a banner year in girls sports this year. And a lot of that success is due to senior Alison Kusler.
"It doesn't matter if you're playing volleyball or basketball or no matter what you're playing with Alison, she wants to win," said Aberdeen Central girls basketball coach Dawn Seiler.
Kusler has done plenty of that this year. In the fall, she helped Aberdeen to the state volleyball championship.
"That was the best feeling ever, so, my goal in high school was to at least get one championship and I'm glad I fulfilled it," said Kusler.
Then in the winter, the Golden Eagles made it to the state basketball tournament.
"Alison is our go-to girl. She leads us in all the offensive categories. She's a very savvy player, she understands the game and she's just one of those players who always finds a way to get things done," said Seiler.
Kusler always seems to get the ball with the game on the line. She hit some big shots in an overtime game against O'Gorman this year at the state tournament. But she has experience in big situations. Kusler's biggest shot came at the 2009 state tournament, when she hit a big three to beat Washington in the first round.
"You gotta give that kid a lot of credit. She wants the ball in critical times, and her teammates know that she's gonna get it done for us," said Seiler.
"I kinda like being the leader. I look to teach the younger kids," said Kusler.
"She never believes that you're out of the ball game. She's got a great deal of confidence in her abilities. And she loves the game," said Seiler.
Next year, Kusler will remain in Aberdeen. She has committed to play basketball at Northern State, where she will hope to continue all of her success.
Jason Anschutz, KDLT Sports, Aberdeen.
