Indiana University Athletics
Student-Athlete Spotlight: Kyle Sparks
4/22/2015 11:32:00 AM | Varsity Club
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- Growing up in Indiana, Kyle Sparks always dreamt of playing at Indiana University. Now a senior, Sparks is grateful for his IU experiences and has clear goals for his final season and beyond.
Sport: Soccer
Year & Major: Senior, Sports Communication
Hometown: Avon, IN
Q: What made you choose Indiana University?
A: I grew up in Indiana so it had always been my dream to play here at Indiana University.
Q: What was the biggest adjustment for you when coming to Indiana University?
A: The biggest adjustment I had to make was off the field. My classes demanded more effort than I anticipated to achieve the grades I wanted.
Q: How do you interpret the Spirit of Indiana?
A: The Spirit of Indiana is lively at all times and can be felt all around campus, but for me nothing compares to playing under the lights at Bill Armstrong Stadium with the screaming Hoosier Army. Simply put, there are no better fans.
Q: What's your goal for this season?
A: The goal for my final season is the same now as it was when I had the privilege to put on the IU uniform as a freshman -- win the NCAA National Championship. That's what we come here to do.
Q: What's your favorite moment as a Hoosier?
A: Rushing the court at Assembly Hall after Men's Basketball beat Kentucky [2011] and many more memories come to mind, but winning the 2012 National Championship is a feeling I will cherish forever.
Q: What's your hidden talent?
A: Drawing
Q: What's your favorite place to eat in Bloomington?
A: No doubt Buffa Louie's.
Q: As a scholarship athlete, how do you feel you benefit most by the aid you receive from our Varsity Club donors?
A: Our Varsity Club donors give me the opportunity to play soccer for the best program in college soccer, Indiana University, and provide me the chance to develop and become the greatest player I can potentially be. I can't thank them enough for their support.
Q: If you had the opportunity to meet the donors that provided your scholarship, what would you like to say to them?
A: Thank you for providing me a chance to chase my dreams and play soccer at Indiana University. I grew up wanting to play here and then eventually professionally and I believe this University provides me with the best chance to achieve my dream. Even if I don't play at the next level, my time here at IU has been great so far and I know it will continue to be. I'm looking forward to my last season and my last chance at another National Championship.
When you join the Varsity Club, you make opportunities possible for student-athletes like Kyle. Make a gift online now to support student-athlete scholarships. Read more about Kyle Sparks.
