This week’s Athlete of the Week is Crookston Pirate Senior and Volleyball player Anna Funk. Funk has been a starter on the team for the past two seasons and has become one of Crookston’s leaders on and off the court. “Anna has really developed into the role of a leader this year,” said Pirates coach Katie Engelstad. “Last year she started as well but this year she’s grown into that role and always brings our team a lot of energy and is someone the younger kids in our program can look up to.”
Funk has been all over the court for the Pirates and leads the team in kills this season with 72, and is second on the team with 77 assists, and 119 digs. She can also serve and has tallied 4 aces while her serving percentage has been 90.6%. The most impressive part about her play on the court may be how versatile she is. “Just in the past week actually, we’ve switched her from setting to playing more on the outside and she’s really adjusted well to that,” said coach Engelstad. “It’s been fun to see different things get thrown at her and see her respond so well because she knows it’s the best for the team.”
For someone who has blossomed into the role of a leader and been a part of the Pirates program for so long, there is no question her presence will be missed next year and in the years to come. “Anna is overall just a great kid,” said coach Engelstad. “She is involved in sports, extra-curriculars, anything you can think of. If there is something going on, she is probably a part of it, and you love to see that.”
Funk also participates in figure skating and is an active member of the Leo Club at the High School. She will graduate from Crookston this spring.
First started playing Volleyball – 4th grade
What do you feel is the strongest part of your game – Depends on the game. Probably serve and receive
Part of your game that needs work – My defense
Favorite gymnasium away from Crookston – East Grand Forks
Do you have a pregame ritual – I always listen to upbeat music before games. Also braiding hair.
Favorite sport – Volleyball
Favorite sports team – I just love watching any college volleyball. UND is a lot of fun to watch
Favorite athlete – I don’t really have a favorite athlete
Last movie you’ve seen – The Black Phone
Favorite TV Show – Criminal Minds
Favorite food – Tater Tot Hotdish
Something people don’t know about you – I like ziplining and I’ve broken my left arm 3 times.
What music are you listening to – Country or Rap music if it’s before games.
You’re stranded on a deserted island, and you can have ANY three people with you – My Dad, my older sister Emily, and my younger brother Grant.
Plans after graduation – Go to college somewhere and as of now, I’m thinking about studying engineering, or something in the medical field.
Family –
Dad – Curtis
Mom – Kristin
Sisters – Emily (Graduated from Crookston in 2021)
Mackenzie (Sophomore)
Brother – Grant (eighth-grader)
