Every year, KMAN presents the K-State Credit Union & Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Center/KMAN Student Athlete of the Year award to provide a scholarship to a graduating, senior student-athlete who exemplifies excellence in and out of the athletic environment.
Student athletes from Manhattan, Wamego, Riley County, Rock Creek, Blue Valley and Frankfort are all considered for this award.
Congratulations to the 2025 K-State Credit Union & Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Center/KMAN “Student-Athlete of the Year”…from Rock Creek High School…Ayla Klingenberg!
This year’s recipient is an eight-time letterwinner across two sports.
Earning the title of team captain for three years in volleyball. A sport where Klingenberg has earned double-digit postseason honors. Including multiple all-state honors. In her senior season, she broke the school record for career kills and led the Mustangs to a 2nd place finish at state. In track, Klingenberg has placed in the top two in the high jump at state three times and won gold in 2023. She also runs two relays and has received six all-league and state honors.
Off the hardwood and track, Klingenberg is involved in many extracurricular activities like NHS treasurer, Student Council, class officer, Chick-fil-A Leader Academy, Future Business Leaders of America and Family, Career and Community Leaders of America. She has also dedicated many hours to community involvement. Volunteering for the Flint Hills Bread Basket, kennel attendant for Spark’s Kennels, making gifts for the homeless shelter and assisting with youth volleyball camps.
Klingenberg also excels in the classroom. She was named to the Honor Roll, was named a Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Ambassador and will graduate with a 4.2 weighted GPA. Klingenberg will continue her education at Southeastern Louisiana University and major in business.