By Matt Browning

Karlie Kanaga was chosen as the Mulvane Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month for February. Kanaga is a starter on the Wildcats’ basketball team this winter and was a first team all-league forward last spring.

“To be chosen as athlete of the month means a lot,” Kanaga said. “I know there are so many people to choose from and it is such an honor to be chosen.”

Mulvane has made great strides this season and Kanaga’s predominant goal was to improve the Wildcats’ win total which they already have.

“So far I believe our season has been great,” Kanaga said. “Yes, there are a few games we should have won but didn’t, but that’s just basketball. Our progress from last year to this year is just insane. I look forward to getting some more wins under us this year.”

Kanaga attributes the team’s increased win total to being more like a family.

“This season I really wanted us to become more of a family and just play the game,” Kanaga said. “In past years, yes we’ve played basketball, but this year everyone is in it 100 percent and we’re playing a completely different game.”

Besides playing basketball and soccer, Kanaga also plays volleyball at Mulvane as well as being involved in National Honor Society and Rowdie Crowd Council.

Next year, Kanaga plans to go to Emporia State University to play soccer.