June 1, 2007
NORMAL, Ill. -- Senior Jena Allie has proven that hard work, dedication and demonstrating qualities of a team player has paid off. After three seasons, the Illinois State swimmer has been awarded the Dede Woytowych Endowed Scholarship for 2007.
"It was a huge surprise and a great honor," said Allie. "I was so happy when I heard the news."
The scholarship was established in 2006 in memory of Diedre "Dede" Woytowych, a former Illinois State swimmer who passed away unexpectedly in 2005. Head coach Steve Paska, the Woytowych family and Redbird Athletics started the scholarship to keep Woytowych and Illinois State swimming and diving together forever.
Paska feels that Allie is a worthy candidate for the award.
"Jena is a team player and always does everything asked of her," said Paska. "She fits the mold and demonstrates all the qualities we look for in a recipient. She is friendly, caring and has improved tremendously in the past three seasons. Jena has participated in several different events for the team when needed and is a true joy to coach.
"Jena is a sprint free styler for the team," said Paska. "She gives her whole heart and soul into the sport and it shows."
Although Allie only knew Woytowych for one season, she still made an impact on her.
"It is so great to be compared to Dede," said Allie. "She had such a fun, bubbly, outgoing personality that everyone noticed. I wish I knew her for longer because she was such a great person. Being compared to her is such a great honor."
The Dede Woytowych Endowed Scholarship is one of 16 endowed scholarships 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) 438-3808.
