June 28, 2005
Normal, Ill. -
Kris Wildenradt is living proof that hard work and continued improvement can have huge payoffs. After a season of struggles, the Illinois State golfer won the 2005 Missouri Valley Conference Championship, leading the Redbirds to the team title. His efforts have earned him the L. Durwood Boone Endowed Scholarship for 2005.
"It's a real honor to win this award," said Wildenradt. "I think it just goes to show that if you keep on working on your game and improving that good things can happen."
The scholarship was established with an initial grant from the estate of the late L. Durwood Boone, whose playing skills inspired the start of the Redbird golf program in the 1930s. The proceeds have helped support Redbird golf student-athletes since 1995, with specific student athletes honored starting in 2003.
Head coach Ray Kralis believes that Wildenradt's attitude in tournament play has helped fuel his success.
"Kris is a gamer," said Kralis. "When the expectations for him to succeed are higher, he welcomes those challenges."
A senior program management major from Delavan, Ill., Wildenradt also has continued to work on his game in preparation for the 2005-06 season.
"I've been working on my game a lot this summer," said Wildenradt. " I have already played in four tournaments, and I'm scheduled to play in a few more. You can't take the summer off. It's a great time to put in the time to work on your game."
Kralis also believes that Wildenradt's love for the game was renewed during the 2004-05 season.
"I saw signs throughout the year that he loved the game again," said Kralis. "I think that he has renewed his passion for the game of golf."
The L. Durwood Boone Endowed Scholarship is one of 12 endowed scholarships funded by private donors, which are available to Illinois State student-athletes. For more information about supporting Illinois State University endowments for student-athletes, call The Redbird Club office at (309) 438-3803.
