Standout Lady Tiger runner signs with Washburn University
Isabella Kupka, the Cowley College women's track and field record holder in the indoor 400-meter dash, recently signed a letter of intent to continue her academic and athletic career at NCAA Division II Washburn University.
Before coming to Cowley, Kupka competed in the 2019 German Nationals, South German Championships, and the German State Championship in the 4x100-meter relay. She parlayed that success into signing with Colorado State University Pueblo.
However, Kupka did not enjoy her experience at CSU-Pueblo and decided to transfer to Cowley College in Arkansas City, KS, where she made an immediate impact.
In her first year at Cowley, Kupka broke the indoor school record in the 400-meter dash. She also assists the team in the sprints and relays and has the potential to qualify for nationals in multiple events.
"I feel appreciated here at Cowley and a part of a big family," Kupka said. "I feel that helped me perform better."
Earlier this year, Kupka placed 18th in the 400-meter dash at the 2024 indoor nationals.
"Her work ethic, drive, and commitment to the smallest details every day has been awesome to see," Cowley head track and field coach Cameron Rieth said. "If our freshmen athletes are not paying attention and learning from how she goes about her daily business, they are missing out on a significant opportunity for growth as athletes and students. She has left an invaluable impression on our Cowley Tiger track program, and it shows all over our top 15 lists."
Kupka will join a Washburn squad currently ranked 14th in the NCAA Division II during the outdoor track and field season.
"Washburn has a lot of good sprinters that can help me improve even more," Kupka said. "The coach works with each individual and knows a lot about the sport."
The kinesiology major hopes to close out her Cowley career with a bang.
"I feel I am so close to breaking my personal best time and the school record in the outdoor 400-meter dash," Kupka said. "I want to put my name in the record books."