No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show
Episode: Kate Koval's Search for Home
Release Date: January 29, 2025
Hosts: Zena Keita, Chantel Jennings, Sabreena Merchant, and Ben Pickman
Introduction: Kate Koval's Journey from Ukraine to Notre Dame
In this deeply moving episode, "No Offseason" delves into the life of Kate Koval, a standout freshman forward for Notre Dame's women's basketball team. Originating from Kyiv, Ukraine, Kate's journey is interwoven with the tumultuous backdrop of Russia's invasion of her homeland, adding layers of resilience and determination to her athletic pursuits.
Kate Koval reflects, “[...] while every athlete has a journey, new homes, new strengths, new teams that become family, Kate's journey over the backdrop of the war in Ukraine has been more harrowing than most...” (00:57)
Transition to the United States: Building a New Foundation
In early 2021, at 15 years old and towering at 6’2”, Kate was already a basketball prodigy in Ukraine. Seeking greater opportunities, she and her family moved to Long Island, New York, enrolling her at Long Island Lutheran Middle and High School (Luhi). This transition was pivotal, positioning Kate to showcase her talents on a national stage.
Coach Christina Rady shares, “The program at L High was good, but not yet great. Kate was the piece that could catapult Luhi onto the national stage as a perennial power.” (10:49)
The move was not solely about basketball; academics were equally paramount. Notre Dame promised a pathway to elite collegiate programs, aligning with the Kovals' emphasis on education. By August 2021, Kate had relocated to New York, quickly assimilating into her new environment with the support of her host family.
The Outbreak of War: Turmoil in Ukraine
On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, shattering the semblance of normalcy for Kate and her family. As conflict raged, Kate found herself torn between her burgeoning basketball career and the safety of her loved ones back home.
During a crucial game, Kate's focus was divided. “[...] as the cell phone on the bench remained silent, Kate dominated the court, scoring 16 points and securing 10 rebounds by halftime.” (06:17) This silent phone was a lifeline to her parents amid the uncertainty.
Coach Christina Rady poignantly states, “I was really kind of blaming myself because I'm like, why am I here and my family is over there?... Nobody was prepared for it.” (27:17) This sentiment underscores the emotional burden Kate carried during this period.
Coping with Conflict: Support Systems and Personal Resilience
Balancing intense athletic performance with personal turmoil, Kate leaned on her support systems. Her host mother, Ms. Blaise, played a vital role in shielding her from the relentless news, providing a semblance of normalcy.
Ms. Blaise recounts, “Host family's the way to go, because that was like a real family for me, for real.” (13:55) Their bond became a source of stability, allowing Kate to excel on the court despite the chaos unfolding in Ukraine.
Back home, Kate's father, Oleksandr Koval, a former Ukrainian Air Force engineer, felt a profound duty to defend his country, despite Kate’s pleas for him to leave. His unwavering commitment is beautifully captured when he explains, “He feels that he chose to marry somebody and have children in this country, and his duty in life is to protect the country that his children grew up in.” (28:16)
Tragedy Strikes: The Loss of a Friend
The personal cost of war became starkly apparent when Kate’s close friend was killed while attempting to flee Ukraine. “[...] Kate had one of the best games of her season, scoring 33 points and grabbing 17 rebounds, yet she was consumed by the absence of a call from home.” (20:49) The emotional trauma culminated when she collapsed from grief, leading to a heartbreaking revelation about her friend’s fate.
Coach Christina Rady reflects, “...when the family is trying to get out of the town and something like that happens. I believe it was just her and her mom and her little sister. There was not even a man with them in the car...” (36:42) This tragic event underscored the severity of the conflict and its direct impact on those closest to Kate.
Hope and Reunion: Oleksandr's Journey to the United States
Despite ongoing hostilities, Oleksandr eventually secured a special permit to visit the United States. In December 2022, during a tournament in Phoenix, Kate was reunited with her father for the first time since the invasion began. This emotional reunion symbolized hope and the enduring strength of family bonds.
During a heartwarming moment, Oleksandr Koval shares, “[...] like, I go over to him after the game and just full on like bear hugs me, lifts me up in the air and just said, love you, coach.” (43:34) This moment not only strengthened Kate’s resolve but also highlighted the importance of familial support amidst adversity.
Commitment to Notre Dame: Balancing Academics and Athletics
Kate's dedication extended beyond basketball. Committing to Notre Dame, she balanced her athletic aspirations with a rigorous academic pursuit in neuroscience. Her recruitment journey was marked by a desire for a close-knit community, something Notre Dame’s Coach Niel Ivey adeptly provided.
Coach Christina Rady remarks, “I didn't want to go to a huge school when you're just going to be like a number and people just know you for being a basketball player and nobody would really care about you, truly.” (46:26) This sentiment resonated with Kate’s own values, leading her to choose Notre Dame where she felt genuinely supported both on and off the court.
Current Success and Future Aspirations
As of the episode's release, Kate has become an integral part of Notre Dame’s success, contributing significantly to their national title ambitions while maintaining her academic excellence. Her commitment to her roots and the sacrifices made by her family fuel her drive not only as an athlete but also as a human being striving for a better future.
Kate Koval states, “...at this point, in her parents' eyes, she's doing exactly what she's supposed to be doing, following her dream.” (54:20) Her story is a testament to resilience, the power of community, and the enduring spirit of home.
Reflections: The Meaning of Home and Family
The episode concludes with heartfelt reflections on the true meaning of home and family. Despite the physical distance, Kate's connections with her host family, coaches, and her roots in Ukraine remain steadfast.
Coach Christina Rady expresses, “...cherish every single moment.” (52:28) This philosophy encapsulates Kate’s journey, emphasizing the importance of support, love, and perseverance in the face of overwhelming challenges.
Conclusion: An Inspiring Tale of Strength and Unity
Kate Koval's Search for Home is a poignant narrative that intertwines the trials of war with the triumphs of athletic achievement. Through Kate's story, listeners gain insight into the profound sacrifices made by athletes who balance personal hardships with their professional aspirations. This episode not only highlights Kate's exceptional talent on the court but also her unwavering commitment to her family and homeland, making it a powerful testament to the human spirit's resilience.
Notable Quotes:
- “[...] Kate had to reconsider the true meaning of sacrifice for family and home.” – Kate Koval (00:57)
- “...Kate was the piece that could catapult Luhi onto the national stage as a perennial power.” – Coach Christina Rady (10:49)
- “He feels that he chose to marry somebody and have children in this country, and his duty in life is to protect the country that his children grew up in.” – Oleksandr Koval (28:16)
- “cherish every single moment.” – Coach Christina Rady (52:28)
- “...she's doing exactly what she's supposed to be doing, following her dream.” – Kate Koval (54:20)
This episode, produced and edited by Andrea B. Scott and supported by a dedicated team, offers an intimate and comprehensive look into Kate Koval's life, blending sports with profound personal narratives. It serves as an inspiring reminder of the strength found in unity, the importance of home, and the relentless pursuit of one's dreams amidst adversity.