This is the first in a series of Prep Talk Graduation '09 blogs featuring area WIAA Scholar-Athletes and the essays they wrote as part of the consideration process for the WIAA's highest academic award.

KEVIN BERG, Argyle

Sports: Football (10, 11, 12); Basketball (10, 11, 12); Baseball (9, 10, 11, 12).

GPA: 4.0

Class Rank: 1st of 30.

Other extra-curricular activities: National Honor Society (President), Student Council (Treasurer, Vice President).

Other civic & community activitives: Applestone Youth Group.

ESSAY

Athletics have been a huge part of my life. Starting in grade school, I have participated in football, basketball, and baseball. Since my sophomore year, I have played varsity football. Our program has been very successful, twice earning conference champions and reaching the playoffs each year. I have had a successful career, earning team awards: Best Defense junior and senior year, and All-Conference awards: 1st Team offense and defense junior year, 1st Team defense senior year, and having been voted a captain my senior year. Over the winter months I played basketball at the varsity level for three years, also being voted a captain my junior and senior year. Baseball is my favorite sport and I have played at the varsity level every game, while starting as a freshman. I also have been voted All-Conference twice: Honorable mention catcher both junior and senior year. As you can see, sports have been integral to my life and I have consistently pursued success in everything I do. As for my future, athletics have taught me the teamwork, dedication, and work ethic that is require to be successful in a college atmosphere and the workplace.

-- Kevin Berg, Argyle High School, Class of 2009