SENIOR SCHOLARSHIPS

Online Application

The Kearney Matcats Senior Scholarship Program recognizes graduating high school seniors who have demonstrated dedication to the club, commitment to wrestling, and strong character both on and off the mat. Each year, four scholarships are awarded, two $1,250 scholarships and two $750 scholarships, to help support recipients as they pursue their education beyond high school. Applicants are evaluated based on their club participation and wrestling involvement, character and leadership, and academic achievement and personal reflection. We are proud to recognize the contributions of our senior Matcats and support them as they take the next step in their academic and personal journeys.

Online application open January 1 and are due March 15 each year. Eligible graduating seniors are encouraged to apply by completing the Kearney Matcats Senior Scholarship Application and submitting all required materials, including academic information, wrestling and club participation history, a letter of recommendation, and a 1–2 page essay. The selection committee will review applications following the deadline, with scholarship recipients expected to be recognized at the annual Kearney Matcats Banquet in April.

What You Will Need to Apply
Applicants should be prepared to provide the following information and materials:

Personal Information: Contact information, high school, and parent/guardian information.
Wrestling & Club Participation: Years involved with the Matcats, tournament participation, wrestling accomplishments, and contributions to the club.
Academic Information: Current GPA, academic honors, intended post-secondary school, and field of study.
Character & Leadership: Examples of leadership, sportsmanship, responsibility, and service to others.
Letter of Recommendation: One letter from an individual outside of your wrestling program or immediate family
- e.g., teachers, school administrators, coaches from other sports, employers, community leaders.
Personal Essay: A 1–2 page, double-spaced essay responding to the following prompt:
- "Wrestling is about much more than what happens on the mat. Reflect on your wrestling experience and discuss the lessons, experiences, challenges, and relationships that have shaped you as a person. How have those experiences influenced who you are today, and how will you carry the lessons you have learned through wrestling into the next chapter of your life?"