Central College Athletics

Leah Bontrager
Wellman, Iowa
Class of 2026

Why did you chose Central?

I chose Central because I liked how small it felt compared to others and especially coming from a small school it felt like home. I appreciated Coach Dunham’s values and getting to experience what the team is like I knew it was something I would like to be part of.

Favorite professor and why?

I love many of my professors, especially in the Kinesiology department! My current favorite, though, is Dr. Shuger Fox. It is easy to stay interested in her class. I love her passion for what she teaches and being able to find ways to apply it in my own life.

You’re majoring in kinesiology because?

I am majoring in kinesiology because I like learning about body movement and health. I would like to be able to help others in some way and create an appreciation for movement among young kids through physical education in a positive and fun environment.

Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?

Along with athletics I am also a team representative for SAAC and am involved in FCA

Who are your go-to musical artists?

I will usually be listening to Christian or Country music. My go-to artists are Brandon lake, Zach Bryan, and Jordan Davis. But I also like listening to podcasts when I can.

How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?

Attending Central has impacted my life I’m sure in more ways than I know right now. The opportunity to continue being a part of a team that loves running and creating relationships through that is something I will always be grateful for.

What’s the most expensive thing you’ve ever broken?

Probably my car. Even though I usually consider myself a decent drive, my car has some unique scars that might make someone think otherwise. Luckily my dad is the best at fixing things, and I don’t have to pay for the damages. But I definitely haven’t broken anything more expensive…unless my bones count.

Favorite childhood movie or tv show?

The Home Alone movies bring so many good memories. I would watch these many times with my siblings over Christmas break and it never gets old.

What’s your guilty pleasure?

Anything peanut butter and anything chocolate but most of all peanut butter with dark chocolate.

Teammate you’d take with you to win the Amazing Race

Megan Johnson graduated last year but I know I would want her on my side. She is one of the strongest, fastest, most determined people I know while also being so fun and encouraging to be around.

Favorite TV Show

Definitely Gilmore Girls. I often have it playing this time of year, especially when I am with my sister.

What’s it like to run for Coach Dunham?

I love running for Coach Dunham. He is very encouraging and understanding through our sport of ups and downs. When talking to him its obvious he cares about each of his runners and is great pushing us to be our best.

What’s your favorite part about being a member of Central’s women’s cross country team?

Going from a small school and hardly having a full team to a team of 20+ people who have a similar commitment and love for running really grew my appreciation of the sport. My favorite part is that we can be competitive in workouts and meets but also have strong relationships filled with good conversation and laughter. They are the best people to be around in and outside of practice.

What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?

10 years from now I hope to have a family and a job that I enjoy that is related in some way to what I am in school for.

Favorite food from Central Market

Cook-to-order pancakes! Every week I plan to be there for a cholate chip pancake, or two.

Bucket list
               
A few things on my bucket list are to run a marathon, travel out of the country (hopefully a few times), and live in another state.