Delaney Kuepper '22 Recruiting Profile

Hello to my future coach :)

The request above asks me to talk about how my character, athletics and academics sets me apart from others: 

Character:

At an early age I was taught that it is far better to give than receive.   Although I was very young at the time, I have learned this to be true.  My parents helped me to practice this concept by encouraging and loving others unconditionally.  Starting from age 7 to now, I have personally raised $11,627 for various non-profit organizations using my talents as a water athlete and pouring in countless hours giving back to those in need. Even though I was not seeking any recognition, the adults around me recognized me for my efforts.  Rady Children's Hospital named me on their Jr. Miracle Makers for paddling my stand up paddleboard a distance of 12 miles in the open ocean at age 7 while raising $6,050 for their pediatric oncology unit.  World renowned champion surfer Shaun Tomson highlighted my efforts in the 100 wave challenge to support Boys to Men - a non-profit that helps at risk youth who do not have dads to overcome hurdles. I believe these and other efforts give me a unique, mature perspective on what is important in life.  Here is a link to my website of some these past events: http://delaneykuepper.com/Projects.html 

As my desire to give back relates to the water polo world, I am about to launch my next fundraiser where I anticipate raising $20,000 (or much more if I can get USAWP to support it) for a special group of girls with disabilities known as Friends of Bethany.  Stay tuned for my inaugural Block-A-Thon where I will be raising money for blocked shots throughout the upcoming season which will be highlighted by one of my friends Bethany Hamilton (Soul Surfer).  It is my hope that many in our water polo community will join me in this effort to raise funds for a great cause while exposing the benefits of water polo as a sport and a lifestyle. 

Athletics

My goals for college are to play for a top ranked school with a great academic program.  I also have Olympic aspirations and am looking forward to competing for USAWP's National Youth Team this year.  I'm committed to helping all my teams succeed through my dedication, coachability and game IQ.  I train year-round with some of the most respected/accomplished water polo coaches and athletes that push me to reach my potential. I am constantly encouraged by their assessments of my skill set, and they compare me to previous players they have coached which reached the highest level in our sport.

My discipline and passion drive both my athletics and academics.  My aggressive and vocal style of play as a goalie has earned me the confidence of my coaches and, even at the 16U level, they generally allow me to direct the defense.  This enables them to focus on a variety of game elements as I generally act as an assistant coach from the water.  I am very pleased that my teammates consistently thank me for directing them defensively both during practice and in our games - enabling them to "up their game" and improve our probability of a win. I strive to constantly motivate and assist my teammates to improve and achieve results.  I look forward to continuing my progression to become an elite player as I will always consider myself a student of the game.

Although I am a goalie, I really enjoy initiating offense for my team which includes taking advantage of every counter opportunity available. I love dropping full court outlet passes right in the hands of a streaking player for them to exploit one on goalie situations - rewarding them for great defense and setting them up for the score.  Of course, I don't mind the assists either :)

Academics

Academics have always been important to me.  Fortunately, studying and getting good grades have come naturally to me. I also think my time management has been a key factor as almost every available hour is divided among studying, pool time, training, family, and faith. I have had straight A's since first grade and that has continued into high school.  Along the way I have been elected as Student of the Year for my school district, honor roll, etc. 

If you would like additional details or supporting documents regarding any of the above please let me know. 

Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to meeting you, learning about your team's goals, and how I might play an integral role as your next goalie.

Regards,

Delaney Kuepper