This year the Female Underclassman of the Year Award goes to Nina Kelty (‘13). Kelty is a member of both the varsity soccer and varsity lacrosse teams at Paly. Her fluid athleticism allows her to dominate on both fields and become a rising star on both squads.

With a perfect balance of respect, dedication to improving and dexterity in many positions, Kelty has not only proven herself worthy of her spot but has become a starter on both teams.

This year, the girls’ lacrosse team was immensely successful, finishing the season with a league record of 10-1.  Statistically Kelty was impressive, scoring 41 goals and fielding 29 groundballs.

In addition to her lacrosse prowess, Kelty was the starting left back on the girls’ soccer team. Although the team struggled and ended the year with a league record of 5-11-3, Kelty proved to be an important part of the team. She was not the flashy scorer, but her selflessness as a teammate and raw determination to keep the ball out of the net made her one of the most respected players.

Her sister and teammate, Emy Kelty (‘12) plays with her on both the soccer and lacrosse teams at Paly. Nina has followed in Emy’s footsteps; last year, The Viking awarded Emy the Female Underclassman of the Year award. As Emy is also a main contributor to both the soccer and lacrosse teams, Nina has had to work hard to differentiate herself both in her skill set as well as in her attitude on the field.

“Emy and I are opposites in soccer,” Nina said. “I like to go through people, and Emy does all the moves and is more of a passive player. Together we make a good balance.”

While maintaining a good distance in terms of their abilities as players, they are able to unite the team because of their uncanny knowledge of each other’s whereabouts on the field.

“It’s really helpful to have a sister on the team,” Nina said. “Being new on the team, you have to gain trust of your teammates in order for someone to pass to you. But with Emy, I knew I had her trust.”

Many athletes consider soccer and lacrosse to be complimentary sports, making Nina an even stronger competitor both physically and tactically.

“It’s helpful doing two sports so I am in better shape when I switch practices,” Nina said.

While still a long way in the future, Nina aspires to continue both careers in college.

“I definitely want to play one of my sports in college,” Nina said. “I’m debating between DI for just one [sport], or doing DIII for both.”

Whether she chooses to play soccer or lacrosse, Nina will continue to train hard for her role on whatever team she chooses. Despite her opportunities in the future, Nina is able to focus on what really matters when playing a sport: having fun and improving.   After being recognized as one of the most athletic underclassmen at Palo Alto High School, her future is already immensely bright.

“If anything, I just want to get better and put more time in it,” Nina said.  “There’s always room for improvement.” <<<