November 18, 2009
Kelly Mackenzie graduates from Winter Sports High School in Utah.
LEFT: It’s not all down hill from here as Alta’s Kelly Mackenzie prepares for collegiate competition and an opportunity to study physical therapy after graduation from the Winter Sports High School in Park City, Utah this week. COURTESY PHOTOSometimes following one dream takes a family effort.
For graduating senior Kelly Mackenzie, she is realizing a dream come true that started with her parents, Dana and Debra, who recognized their daughter’s drive and who now watch her as some of her goals become reality through their support.
“When I was in eighth grade, I went to the Mt. Hood Junior Olympics and some friends were going to winter sports school.” Kelly said. “My decision was based on impulse. When I started checking out the school’s profile, it was a perfect opportunity for me. My parents were awesome enough to allow me to pursue my dreams.”
Kelly will graduate this month from the Winter Sports High School in Park City, Utah.
The school is an internationally recognized, accredited high school for student athletes specializing in their respective winter sports, with classes in session from April to November. Students, who are pursuing professional ambitions on ice and snow, have the opportunity to practice on the slopes.
“She was motivated as a student,” said her mother Debra on Tuesday. Debra, who rents a condo in Park City so her daughter may attend the Winter Sports School, said that although the approach to High School was different, she was quite pleased with the education Kelly received.
Kelly laughed thinking of friends who would call her in the summer months while she was in class inviting her to the lake. She said she would in turn, call them on a powder day to remind them that she was in the mountains while they were in class.
But it’s not all fun and games on the slopes. Kelly has real educational goals that equal her desires to conquer the twists and turns of Alpine competition.
“While ski racing is my passion, I love learning,” Kelly said.
She is hoping to compete on her skies at the collegiate level while working toward a physical therapy career. Some of her top choices include Boulder, Colorado and Maine.
In the meantime, while she continues to contact coaches and “get her name out there,” she’s preparing to graduate and hit the slopes again working and practicing with the Jackson Hole Ski Team.
A graduation celebration will be Saturday, Nov. 28 at Mackenzie residence in Alta starting at 2 p.m. Please bring a potluck, refreshments will be served.
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Citizen staff will choose an individual or group each month highlighting exceptional work or character based on your nominations. Teton Springs Lodge and Spa will recognize the Citizen of the Month with a similar gift from the resort. Please send your November nominations to news@valleycitizen.com or call 208-354-NEWS.
