By Jordan Morey
Tribune Sports Editor
Name: Wade Toppe
Age: 21
Hometown: Vallonia
Current residence: West Lafayette
Current occupation: Full-time student at Purdue University
Family: Father, Ron Toppe; mother, Kim Toppe; sister, Brianna Toppe; dog, Gus
High school and graduating year: Brownstown Central High School, class of 2012
Sports you did in high school: Football, four years; basketball, four years; baseball, four years
Athletics honors/awards/accomplishments: I was fortunate enough to be a member of multiple conference, sectional, and regional championship teams in each of my three sports. Individual awards include: IFCA 3A All-State Wide Receiver 2011-2012, IFCA 3A Academic All-State 2011-2012, MSC All-Conference Football 2011-2012, MSC All-Conference Honorable Mention Football 2010-2011, Mason Watson Memorial Award, BCHS Football Top 50, PRIDE Football Award, Baseball 3A Academic All-State
College: Purdue University
Sports you did in college: Intramural Sports
Major: Public health, epidemiology/public health biology concentration
Who or what got you into sports?
“My parents first introduced me to sports and always encouraged me to play and do my best. Sports also were the main activity among my friends and I growing up.”
What is/are your favorite memory/memories of high school sports?
“Winning sectional and regional were some of the most rewarding memories from high school sports, but some of my favorite memories come from times spent with teammates at school, practices, and summer camps.”
What did you feel was your biggest accomplishment or award and why?
“The Mason Watson Memorial Award is a special one to me because it considers more than your athletic or academic talents, it speaks toward who you are as a person and your work ethic.”
Are you still involved in sports today?
“I am currently a member of a fraternity at Purdue University and have a position as the athletic chair, which is responsible for all intramural sports involvement. I also recently applied for a position within Purdue’s football program.”
How did sports affect your life?
“First and foremost I’d like to thank all of the coaches I’ve had for being great at what they do; I could never thank them enough. Along with their help, sports have helped teach me important skills that translate to more than just sports like hard work, teamwork, and selflessness. Sports also can create friendships that last a lifetime.”
Do you have any advice for kids about getting involved in sports?
“Always give 100 percent. Some days you won’t feel like practicing, lifting, or watching film; but don’t let that stop you from giving it your all to become the best that you can be. It’s over before you know it, so get the most out of the time you have.”
Do you have any favorite sports teams (NFL, NBA, MLB, etc.)?
Indianapolis Colts, St. Louis Cardinals