Glen Lake celebrated the commitments of seniors Kariesue Taghon and Paige Steffke as they signed their letter- of-intent to play at the next level on May 11.
Taghon will run track at Aquinas college and Steffke will play soccer at Trine University.
Glen Lake athletic director Rachel Stein congratulated Steffke and Taghon as they began to embark on a new journey.
“Your commitment both on and off the field is because of your passion, discipline and resilience. (Steffke and Taghon) have not only elevated to this moment, but also inspired those around you. You are joining a proud tradition of student athletes who have represented (Glen Lake) with distinction both in competition and in the classroom,” Stein said. “I also want to acknowledge the village that has helped raise these outstanding individuals, especially the parents, families, and guardians who have provided a wave of support and encouragement. We extend our deep gratitude for your sacrifices and guidance that have been instrumental in shaping these young ladies into the leaders they’re today. ”
Taghon and Steffke are not only outstanding on the track and soccer field, but in the classroom, as they both carry a 3.9 GPA.
Steffke will join the Trine Thunder women’s soccer team (8-7-5 overall, 3-4-1 MIAA) with the ability to provide offensive production. She will also study to become a physician’s assistant.
Steffke fell in love when she went to Trine for a recent visit.
“It’s a super nice school. The coach was super nice and super welcoming. I just liked the area and I thought it’d be the best decision for me,” Steffke said.
Steffke has had to show strength through multiple obstacles throughout her career, but her perseverance is unmatched as she managed a stellar career despite injuries.
Steffke is excited to play at the next level after having to miss out on her senior year.
“It’s been a dream for a long time,” She said. “I’m super thankful that I had this opportunity.”
Steffke was dominant on the pitch during her three soccer seasons. She scored 43 goals and 44 assists. Steffke was named to the all-district team three times and was named district MVP in 2023.
“Where she is now has a lot to do with the parents and all of her soccer coaches. She had that perseverance and had that will to keep going,” Glen Lake coach Eric Luthardt said. “(Steffke) showed up to every practice, every game with a great attitude, and helped coaching, helping young players out.”
Taghon will be heading to Aquinas College to sprint against track and field competition. The senior is heading to the MHSAA Div. 4 State Championship this weekend in the 100, 200, and various relay events. Taghon will study political science and pre-law. Both Taghon and Steffke are part of student council and national honor society.
It didn’t matter what time of year, Taghon has always been working hard at her track and field craft.
“I’ve never had a student come to me (in the winter) asking for shovels to shovel off the track so she could start running,” Stein said.
Taghon was deciding between Alma, Saginaw Valley State University, and Aquinas.
She fell in love with Aquinas’ quaint campus and specialty academic programs.
“I was able to spend the night and meet all the girls on the team. They were all super nice and with the environment there I’m gonna excel there,” Taghon said. “It means the world to me to have the opportunity. I’ve really fallen in love with the sport. When I’m stressed, I go run on the track. When I’m happy, I go run on the track. It’s my outlet.”
Taghon will take with her countless track memories including the relay teams and camaraderie with her teammates. She advanced to the track and field state championships after qualifying in the 100, 200, and 4x100-relay or 4x200relay teams during the regional track meet earlier this month.
Taghon finished eighth at the state finals last year in the 200meter dash and the 4x200-relay team.
Taghon wants to go into prelaw to help people.
“I took AP gov this year and I just love it. I’d really enjoy that. The idea of being able to help people. I would want to do something on the civil level and perhaps
something with families or social work,” she said.
Glen Lake girls track coach Donna King knows how special the past four years have been while coaching Taghon.
“Kariesue has belief. She is a hard worker who faced hardship. It has not been an easy road for her, but these hardships have prepared her,” King said. “She’s not ordinary, she’s extraordinary ... Most importantly, attitude determines how well you do in track. That’s what separates Kariesue from others. “I’m so proud of you. Go follow your dreams,” Taghon.”
