Ellie Burnside, a Kent Island High School Senior, is an Athlete Extraordinaire
Ellie Burnside, a senior at Kent Island High School is an athlete extraordinaire. Learn more about her love of speed and the three sports she has played for all four years at KIHS.
What do you find appealing about each of the sports? Is one a favorite? I love playing 3 different sports. There are a lot of similarities between field hockey, basketball, and lacrosse. I love the speed of the games, I enjoy running, and all three sports require a lot of teamwork. I try and take what I learn from each sport and apply it to the others. If I had to choose a favorite, it would be field hockey.
How often do you practice? Do any of the practice sessions ever overlap? I practice every day after school for two hours and sometimes on Saturday mornings. Practices overlap towards the end of season, but the coaches are flexible and understanding. Basketball usually overlaps lacrosse since we have made it far in the playoffs in the previous years.
How do you balance your sports activities with schoolwork? I try and get as much work done as I can while at school. I’m very organized, I stay current with all my assignments, and I have good relationships with my teachers.
How often do you compete in each of the sports? Any wins that you are especially proud of? There are usually two games a week for each sport. When I think about my high school career, there are two wins that stand out to me. This past fall the KI varsity field hockey team beat Severna Park in double OT and a round of shoot outs. It was amazing! The other win was in basketball at the 2023 state semi-final game. We beat Hereford in a huge comeback win to go to the State Championship.
How do you feel before and after a competition? How do you prepare... mentally and physically? Before each game I get excited, try to shake off the nerves, and focus on what I’m going to do during the game. After the game, I love to celebrate the win with my teammates. If we lose, I start mentally preparing for the next game. Physically, I try to eat healthy and make sure I’m hydrated. I drink a lot of electrolytes on game days.
You are a senior... what are your plans for the future? Do they include any of the sports? I am planning to attend a 4-year university, study exercise science, and play club sports.
Do you enjoy watching any sports? Do you have a favorite team(s)? I love to watch football; the Ravens are my favorite team. I also follow women’s college basketball and any KI alums who play college sports.
If you would like to nominate a young person for Athlete of the Month, just send their information to office@shoreupdate.com