FEMALE
ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
EMILY SCHIPPER
Fulton head softball coach Jessie Rosenow shares one
story that shows the kind of athlete Emily Schipper is:
After competing at the 2019 state track meet, Schipper
booked it back to Fulton in time for a regional
softball game, just two of her four sports she plays.
That dedication in all four sports helps her excel.
“[Schipper] is one of a kind,” Rosenow said. “Great kid
to coach because she’s always willing to do anything
and that’s what sets her apart. She’s a raw, talented
athlete but the time she put in to become the athlete
she is is crazy.”
Schipper, who is continuing her volleyball career at
Augustana College, led the Steamers to a regional title
on the volleyball court this year from her dominant
position at outside hitter. She earned unanimous first
team all-conference.
“Emily is an all-around stand out,” head coach Stacy
Germann said. “She is an amazing player who is fun
for anyone to watch play. Her work ethic is outstanding
and her talents lead the way.”
She led the 30-9 Steamers in multiple categories. She
finished with a team-high 397 kills this year, with an
impressive kill percentage of over 46 percent. She also
led in service aces with 52, and added 32 blocks to the
mix. Proving herself a versatile player, she also was in
the top three in digs with her all around position.
She finished with 231 this year, which was just under
three a set. The girls basketball team at Fulton High
School struggled to find their identity, but still made
it to the regional championship game with big thanks
to Emily Schipper. The unanimous all-conference first
team selection led Fulton in scoring and rebounds,
scoring 12 points per game and seven rebounds. She
also had 1.5 blocks and two assists a game. She finished
with 961 career points for the Steamers.
“Emily is the player that could stretch the defense
out, hitting multiple long range three pointers while
being able to dominate the interior,” head coach Mike
Menchaca said. “She never tired, played relentless and
was a huge catalyst in helping us reach the regional
championship game for the second straight season.”
Last spring, Schipper earned herself all-state honors
in softball with a powerful Fulton team, playing first
base and batting over .400 for the Steamers. If Schipper
had been able to compete in track and field as a
senior, there was a chance she could have come back
with some extra hardware to cap off the school year.
Schipper, a motivated middle distance runner, qualified
two consecutive years for the Illinois High School
State Track and Field Championships, finishing ninth
as a junior and just outside of medal contention.
28 CHAPYAwards
| 2019-2020