Mike Sudbrink, Ella Thompson, and Emily Sudbrink at the THS Scholarship Night (May 31, 2023)
THS senior Ella Thompson was one of the big winners at last night's THS Scholarship Night taking home arguably the most coveted scholarship awarded, the Shelby Sudbrink Memorial Scholarship, not just because of its value but also because of what and who the scholarship represents.
Scholarship Background:
When Shelby left this world suddenly on January 6, 2017, we lost a talented athlete, an exceptional student, an artistic young woman with a heart full of laughter and love for everyone. Like many seniors at Templeton High School, Shelby had applied to several colleges, and she was waiting patiently for their responses. Contemplating where she would be spending the next 4+ years and wondering how in the world she and her family were going to pay for it all seemed overwhelming. But you would never see Shelby worry. Instead, you’d find her among her friends and family, at a concert, at the beach, watching the sunset, taking in the moments that filled her life.
Life was cut short for Shelby, but throughout her seventeen years her kindness towards others and free loving spirit is deeply felt within so many.
As a memorial to Shelby's life and her positive impact in the lives of others, close friends and family created the Shelby Sudbrink Memorial Scholarship Foundation. Our goal is to help relieve some of the stress and financial burdens so many college-bound seniors face, as they begin their quest to achieve their dreams.
The Foundation's mission is to award one scholarship per year, beginning Spring 2017, to a female senior athlete from Templeton High School. The recipient must be a college-bound student who personifies the passion, integrity and heart that Shelby embodied in her short 17 years. Honoring Shelby’s jersey number #12, the award recipient will receive $1,212.12 at the start of two academic terms per year, for up to eight terms, totaling approximately $9,700. This annual scholarship will allow recipients to breathe a little easier and enjoy more of the special moments in their own lives…to “Live For Shelby”.
Congratulations Ella, you are well deserving of this award, because of your positive imact on others, the hardwork and passion with which you play, the sportsmanship you exhibit and the difference you make in the lives of others both on the field and off. We know the future holds great things in store for you as you leave THS.