Alumni Spotlight- Kaitlyn Skelley Wahila

Name: Kaitlyn Skelley Wahila

Position: Forward/Midfield (played defense in college)

Year Graduated:
2006 from UNH / 2002 from Kingswood Regional HS

Where did you attend college?
UNH

Hockey Playing Resume?
1998-2002: Kingswood Regional HS
2002-2006: UNH
Summer of 2004 & 2005: Elite Performance Training Summer League- New England

Current Employment?
Head Field Hockey Coach at Susquehanna University, Located in central PA

Previous Employment/Positions?
Graduate Assistant at Ithaca College 2006-07
Assistant Field Hockey Coach at Siena College 2007-2010

Toughest Player you ever played against?
Kristen Madden (former Seacoast United teammate/played at Boston College)

How would/did your teammates describe you?
Strong work ethic, funny, focused and determined.

Fondest memory/ies?
The best part about playing for Seacoast was the time spent with teammates. I met wonderful people and had the opportunity to spend many hours on the road with them. The best were those “behind the scenes” times where the many laughs, skits and driving time were the highlight. Festival memories are the strongest in my mind; the time off the field was always the best and we all got to know one another so well. We had a lot of fun!

Qualities of a UNH player?
Determined, willing to do whatever it takes, be a good teammate, selflessness, BLEED BLUE for your team, coaches and the University; Pride. Respect. Honor.

Why did you attend UNH?
Ultimately it was important for me to have my parents support and playing at UNH would allow my parents and family to support the program in a positive way. My parents never missed a game and today my parents and grandparents are still giving back to UNH athletics.

Last UNH game watched?
America East Championship Game 2010.

What was your typical pre game meal?
Too old to remember! I am sure my pre-game meal was not as nutritious as it should have been!

Did you have any superstitions?
I always needed to get a good dance in before a game. Turn the music up loud and let loose for a few minutes. My teammates may not have enjoyed it, but it was always something I needed to do!

What was your favorite warm up song?
This is easy. “You gotta be” by Des’ree

Who was/is your favorite sports icon?
I don’t really have an iconic famous sports person. Growing up the person I wanted to emulate the most was my older brother. A three sport athlete himself he always strived to be the best, but what caught my eye the most was his work ethic. I always wanted to work as hard as he did with my athletics and academics.

Who was your favorite team to play against or most dreaded?
Favorite team to play=Northeastern (always a big rivalry game) playing in downtown Boston under the lights was always fun!

What is the best advice a coach ever gave you?
The best advice I ever received was to never underestimate the power of hard work.

What was your feeling playing in your last college game?
Proud to have been a part of a team and program where bleeding blue was a way of life. Being a teammate was the best experience I could have asked for as a division I college student athlete. Being held accountable by your teammates and holding a teammate accountable has helped me in my life today. The feeling I had playing my last game is why I decided to coach. Coaching is the next best thing to competing as an athlete. It is my way of giving back and doing what I love.
Quote/Mantra you live by?
Give more than you have, leave more than you take.

Any advice you would like to give to current players?
As you look on to your future, make sure you thank those who have helped you along the way from your past and remember those people who have believed in you. Believe in yourself and what you want to accomplish. Never be afraid to ask for help. Remember skill does not always prevail; hard work and passion are just as important! Always be a proud alumnae of your high school and college program for you have left a special mark on them. Lastly, always give back. No matter what type of donation, giving back is the best way to thank people and provide assistance for those to come behind you.