Sam Corrao, Basketball
After four seasons with the Perkiomen School boys basketball team, Sam
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Sam Carrao |
Corrao says he's ready to compete for playing time at Washington College, a Division III school in Chestertown, Md. next season as a freshman. He credited that preparedness to playing for Perkiomen head coach Tom Baudinet and competing against top-notch competition in practice.
"I feel like I'm prepared to take the next step," said Corrao, a Salford Township resident.
During his senior season, the 6-foot-6 Corrao provided perimeter scoring and a post presence off the bench. The forward, who considers his shot his best attribute, helped the Panthers reach the Final Four of the Pennsylvania Independent Schools Athletic Association state tournament.
"Sam knows how to make shots," Baudinet said. "He has a high basketball IQ, knows how to move without the ball and can rebound. He's smart, understands game plans and is a great teammate."
At Washington College, Corrao said he expects to play power forward. However, he said the team's offensive alignment allows its post players to operate near the 3-point line, which suits his game.
That approach made the program especially appealing, according to Corrao, who also considered Juniata College.
According to Baudinet, the player has improved at all aspects of the game, especially his strength and athletic ability. The coach said Corrao's worth ethic will be tested at an up-and- coming program in the Centennial Conference.
"Sam may really have to battle to earn some playing time the first couple years," the coach said. "He's going to have the chance to play for a real good program."
Julia Kelly, Tennis
Julia Kelly went undefeated to help lead Perkiomen School's girls tennis team
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Julia Kelly |
win the Tri-County League Independent School League title during her senior season. However, the Quakertown resident has bigger goals, which includes attending the United States Military Academy.
"It's something I want to do," Kelly said. "I want to help the world in some way, and it would be even better that I get to serve my country."
Before enrolling at West Point, she is planning on spending a year at a military junior college in Alabama. At the Merion Military Institute, the women's tennis program posted an 8-0 record and finished 14th in the final edition of the Oracle/ITA JUCO Rankings this spring before the season ended abruptly due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kelly will continue to focus on the sport. She describes her style as an aggressive baseline player who can use the entire court. An effective serve is her best attribute.
"It sets me up for each point," said Kelly, who relies on a solid mental approach and physical fitness. "Sometimes good placement is better than power."
The following year, Kelly expects to enroll in West Point. After graduation, she is prepared to commit four years to active service and an additional three years in the reserve. She called the school the ideal mix of academic excellence and camaraderie.
"Everyone there is amazing in their own way," Kelly said. "Most of the people there are well-rounded student-athletes and leaders."
Maxwell Schultz, Wrestling
Soon after the first dual meet tournament of the season, Max Schultz heard from
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Maxwell Schultz |
the head coach at East Stroudsburg University. Schultz provided his personal information to a referee at Bethlehem Freedom High School who happened to be an assistant coach at the school. A few weeks later, the Marlborough Township resident heard from the head coach.
Six months later, Schultz is preparing to attend the Division II school. He expects to contend for a spot at 157 pounds for the Warriors as a freshman.
"I think I have a pretty good chance to start," said Schultz, who also considered the Citadel and Virginia Military Academy.
At Faith Christian Academy, Schultz recorded 115 career victories and qualified for the PIAA Class 2A championships twice at 160 pounds. As a senior, he posted a career-high 37 victories before suffering a torn labrum in the final day of practice before States.
"I'm very happy with my high school career," said Schultz, who underwent corrective surgery last week and must wear a sling for approximately six weeks. "I worked very hard. Everyone who wrestles wants to get to the top of the podium. So, I'm going to have to work even harder in college."
At East Stroudsburg, Schultz said he needs to improve his ability to work on top. According to the wrestler, he must improve the transition to turn his opponents on their backs.
"I can't wait to get this sling off," Schultz said.