Five Wildcat Athletes Up for Hood Scholarship

Wilmington High School student-athletes aren’t only successful on the court, the field, or the ice. There’s much more behind a Wildcat.

That fact is no more evident than in a strong group of students who are eligible for the Hood Sportsmanship Scholarship. The voting lasts through March 15 for the five students, who hope to make it to the next round of the competition.

, and now we bring you a complete look at each candidate.

Michael Ciampa plays for the Wildcat baseball team, where he takes pride in being a leader by example.

“To me, it’s not only about getting a win,” Ciampa wrote in his Hood essay. “It is truly about having a positive experience playing the game.”

In addition to his time on the diamond, Ciampa is a member of the Rotary Interact Club as well as Bread and Roses.

Katie Kurowski is a two-sport athlete, as a member of the girls lacrosse and field hockey teams.

During her junior season, Kurowski found herself on the bench. That’s where the senior said she learned her most valuable lessons.

“I mostly sat on the bench and cheered on my teammates,” Kurowski wrote in her essay. “I may not have been playing much, but I realized that I don’t always have to be the best one on the team to be a part of the team. Every member is important, regardless of playing time.”

Fellow Hood nominee and field hockey teammate Lisamarie Diorio spoke similarly about her experience. Because the field hockey team had multiple goalies, Diorio split playing time throughout the year. Still, her attitude remained positive.

“I learned that teamwork and cooperation will get you further than sheer talent,” said Diorio. “I knew that I couldn't play every second of every game, even though I desperately wanted to. I knew we had to build the team for the future and that I couldn't be selfish when it came to playing time. Even when I wasn't in the game, I felt directly connected to every play. I was cheering on all my teammates and maintaining a positive attitude.”

Among the organizations Diorio participates in off the field is TOPSports, which helps provide the opportunity for special needs youth to participate in sports.

A sharp shooter for the basketball team and a first baseman on the Wilmington baseball team, Cole Peffer is a key member for two squads. 

He’s also eligible for the Hood scholarship, and basketball coach Joe Maiella said he’s a worthy candidate.

“He works hard all the time in school and on the basketball court and baseball field,” said Maiella. “He’s always doing the right thing, in the right spots, making the right plays. He’s someone that’s a leader, even if he’s not a vocal leader. He always works hard. Not once in four years did a coach have to get on him for not working hard.”

Off the field and court, Peffer volunteers with Local Heroes, Bread and Roses and Rotary Interact. 

Sarah Luz is also a strong choice for the scholarship as a three-sport athlete who is also involved heavily in extra-curricular activities.

To vote for any of these athletes, visit the Hood Scholarship website and make your selection.