Scholarship Information
The Kate Kaplan Aquatic Scholarship was created to honor the memory of an extraordinary young woman, a 2022 graduate of Cooper City High School, who left an indelible mark on her community. This one-time scholarship of $1,000 will be awarded to a deserving female student-athlete, a member of the Swimming & Diving or Water Polo teams, who is graduating from Cooper City High and pursuing further education, whether at a traditional college or university, or through a technical training program.
Background
Kate Kaplan was a beacon of light, a remarkable blend of athleticism and academic excellence. She poured her heart into her studies and her sports, participating in swimming from a young age and contributing significantly to the Cooper City High swim and water polo teams. Beyond her achievements in the pool, she was a dedicated member of Key Club and National Honor Society, and she held a deep passion for teaching water safety. Those who knew her remember her radiant smile, her warm and gentle spirit, her intelligent wit, and her unwavering love for her boyfriend, friends, and family.
Sadly, Kate’s vibrant life was cut short at the age of 19 by a rare form of ovarian cancer, mucinous adenocarcinoma. While her time with us was too brief, her impact remains profound. This scholarship serves not only to celebrate her memory but also to inspire hope that future research will lead to breakthroughs and, ultimately, a cure.
Value of Candidates
We seek a scholarship recipient who embodies the qualities that made Kate so special: a young woman who excels in both academics and athletics, who demonstrates a genuine commitment to serving others, and who actively engages in her school and community. More than just an athlete, we hope to find someone who shares Kate’s passion for making a positive difference, someone whose life reflects her spirit of kindness, leadership, and unwavering dedication.
