Kalty '20 Reflects on her Commitment to Colgate University
During her sophomore year, Kalty '20 committed to play hockey at Colgate University, two years later she reflects on that decision and her Vermont Academy experience.
Kristyna Kaltounkova ‘20
Number: 8
Hometown: Vlasim, Czech Republic
Position: Forward
Why did you choose Colgate University?
When I visited Colgate, I immediately fell in love with the beautiful campus, the people and the welcoming community. I just felt like I was where I belonged and the fact that Colgate has great academics and athletics was a bonus.
What's it like to be a student-athlete at Vermont Academy?
Being a student-athlete at VA means a lot to me, but it is also a big commitment with all the different sports and academics. It is an honor and I am very grateful that I got the opportunity to excel in sports and in the classroom.
Who would you like to thank for supporting you up to this point?
I would like to thank all of my coaches, especially Coach Ardito, Coach Poole, and Coach Marshall, who have supported me these past three years. The McCarthy’s for being my second family and making sure I have everything I need at all times and lastly my family back home. I would never be where I am right now without my brother or my parents and I am extremely thankful for them and their love and support every day.
What have you learned at VA that you will apply at the next level?
I have learned to appreciate things more and to realize that I am not alone in anything I do. My friends and the VA faculty are always by my side and would never let me fail.
I will definitely apply the ability to ask for help to the next level. While at VA I learned that no matter how bad you are at something, there is always someone to help you
What does Vermont Academy mean to you?
Vermont Academy means a lot to me because I have spent the last three years here and have made many lifelong friends. It immediately became my second home and I will never forget all the memories I have made here.
I am excited to return back to campus as an alumnus in the next years to see my old teachers and see how VA has changed.
What does this opportunity represent for you and your family?
It represents our hard work and humbleness. It has always been one of my goals to get into a U.S. college to play hockey because I knew it would make my family proud. Though now it means I have to work even harder to excel in college and to prove that I am where I deserve to be.
Head Girls' Hockey Coach, Chris Ardito said, "Everything Kalty does, she does all out and motivates those around her to work just as hard. Her constant search for feedback and ways to improve as well as work ethic have made her the player she is. I have no doubt she’s going to go to Colgate ready to contribute and be an impact player for them.”
Vermont Academy is a coed college preparatory boarding and day school in southern Vermont, serving grades 9-12 plus a postgraduate year.
