MacKenzie Kruse
St. Clair, Minnesota
Class of 2023
Why did you choose Central?
I chose to transfer to Central after my first semester at UW-La Crosse because I wanted a smaller campus, with a close-knit community feel. After seeing the positive impact Central had on my older brother, I knew the connections and experiences I’d end up making here would be better than anywhere else. Being able to compete in a sport that I love while still getting a high quality education has made transferring to Central the best decision I’ve made yet.
Favorite professor and why?
My favorite professor is hands down Dr. Shuger Fox!! Every class I’ve had with her has been such an enjoyable experience because of the energy and passion she has for her field. She’s constantly incorporating new research into our lectures and does so many things in her field, outside of teaching, that are incredible to hear about. She’s also one of the funniest and realest people I’ve met and she makes treats for us sometimes too, so that makes class even better!
You’re majoring in Exercise Science because
I’ve always been very passionate about caring for others and helping them improve so I’ve known I’d work in healthcare for as long as I can remember and this major has allowed me to explore those career options. I was on the occupational therapy route for quite some time until my grandpa told me about the cardiac rehab program he was enrolled in after his heart surgery and it piqued my interest. I did some job shadowing shortly after that conversation and after the first day, I knew that I wanted to become a cardiac rehab therapist instead.
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?
I really only have time for track and school but I love hanging out with my friends, going to campus activities, and attending literally any Dutch sporting event.
Who are your go-to musical artists?
It really depends who I’m with or what I’m doing! I’d say my everyday go-to is Morgan Wallen but my karaoke go-to is and will always be Justin Bieber - specifically his song, Beauty And A Beat. Honorable mentions: Kylie Morgan, Bailey Zimmerman…and Shania Twain of course.
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?
Attending Central and playing sports has made a lasting impact on my life. I met my best friends through sports and I couldn’t picture my life without them! I’ve made so many connections over the years and I’ve constantly felt supported by my coaches, professors, and my peers. Being a part of Dutch athletics and making so many memories over the years has been an amazing experience.
Where would you go in a time machine?
If I had a time machine, I’d probably go back to when my parents were in college just to see if they were actually as well behaved as they claim they were.
Teammate you’d take on the Amazing Race with you?
I would have to take Karsyn Lamm with me. If you heard or saw us together during practice, you’d realize we probably wouldn’t make it very far in the competition, but we’d definitely have fun together and add lots of comedic value to the show.
What was the last picture you took on your phone?
A selfie with one of my best friends, Riley Gatton, from over the weekend.
How many pairs of shoes do you own?
I probably own 30 pairs of shoes, give or take. I would say I don’t have enough but my mom would definitely tell you I have way too many, including some of hers that I “borrowed”.
Favorite TV Show
It’s a close call between One Tree Hill and Friday Night Lights but I have to say Friday Night Lights is my ultimate favorite. I mean…have you seen Tim Riggins??
What’s it like to compete for Coach Fuller?
Competing for Coach Fuller has been an absolute blast! The expectations are definitely high for his athletes, but that’s because we’re competing for a coach with an extreme level of knowledge and who has loads of experience coaching different athletes, including several All-Americans. I’ve been told he comes off pretty serious to others but he’s always laughing with us at practice and enjoys getting to know us as people, not just as athletes. I think all of his athletes, past and present, would agree he’s one of the most dedicated, selfless, and supportive coaches we’ve ever competed under. At the end of the day, he just wants us to excel, not only in track but in life as well.
What’s your favorite part about being a member of Central track and field?
My favorite part about being a member of Central track and field is being able to compete as an individual but still contribute to team scores and be a part of the team environment. When I’m jumping, no one else has control over me making it over the bar but myself so I like the constant challenge of trying to beat my previous best while still being able to score overall team points.
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
10 years from now I hope to be living on a big piece of land somewhere in the Midwest with my own family, several dogs, and maybe a miniature cow or two. I plan to be a cardiac rehab therapist, but I won’t be surprised if I’m designing homes and/or planning weddings for a fun side gig.
Favorite food from Central Market
Popcorn chicken sundae
Bucket list
- Vacation in Greece
- Own a miniature cow
- Travel to Tennessee, Montana, Wyoming, South Carolina, and North Carolina
- Own every color of labrador retrievers at least once
- Go to a Morgan Wallen concert
- Own a jet ski
