A closer look at Medford grad and multi-sport athlete Charlie Kleist: Pancakes or waffles?

We take a closer look at Charlie Kleist, multi-sport athlete and University of Medford graduate, to get some insight into what makes Kleist “tick” in our world-famous interview, “Pancakes or Waffles?”

center: What subjects/classes were your favorite, and why?

Kleist: I have always enjoyed mathematics and physics. I love that mathematics is all around us, and that it is applicable to everyday life. I love competing in any sport, so earning a bachelor’s degree was a no-brainer.

center: What words of wisdom can you offer other student-athletes?

Kleist: The part of the sport that you hate the most or that makes you want to quit. It’s the same thing that makes winning more fun. Because you know what it takes to get to this point.

center: What are your hobbies?

Kleist: My favorite hobby is golf. Other than that I like to exercise and hang out with my friends.

center: Who is/was your first favorite teacher and why?

Kleist: Probably my favorite teacher was psychology teacher and football coach Ross Hackbarth. His class was so much fun, there was never a dull moment. He was also just a really great guy to talk to about sports.

center: What is the most unusual food you have eaten?

Kleist: Rocky mountain oysters (also known as testicles)

center: What is your favorite music to listen to?

Kleist: I’m a pretty big rap guy, especially 21 Savage

center: What are your plans after high school?

Kleist: I will study engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Stout and play football there as well.

center: If they made a movie about you and your life, what would it be called?

Kleist: I don’t think my life is interesting enough to make a movie about. But I love Wolf of Wall Street, so let’s go with that.

center: What sports did you play throughout your high school career?

Kleist: I played soccer and basketball all four years. I was going to play tennis my freshman year until the coronavirus hit me. Then I was going to play the next year until I had surgery on my wrist. So I eventually gave up tennis and decided to play golf my junior year. In short, I was terrible and decided to continue my senior year.

center: Who’s the teammate you wouldn’t want to be stranded on a deserted island with?

Kleist: I would say Logan Baumgartner. I don’t think this guy has much exposure to wildlife. If I needed someone to win at Fortnite, he’d be the first person I’d call. If I were stranded on an island I would need a man like Tai Metz by my side. This guy knows how to get things done.

center: What are some of the most memorable moments you have experienced as an athlete?

Kleist: A return to regional champions in basketball is certainly on the cards. Also scoring my first touchdown was pretty cool. It may have taken until my senior year, but winning my first playoff game in football was amazing. Playing in the final basketball game was something I will never forget. Finally, beating our rival since middle school (Northland Pines) to win the conference was unforgettable.

center: Who are your favorite athletes and/or teams?

Kleist: My favorite football team is the Cowboys, and my favorite player is Ezekiel Elliott. And I’ve always loved Steph Curry for some reason.

center: What do you enjoy most about competing in front of family, friends and fans?

Kleist: Fans cheering you on or teasing you makes you want to play harder and give you 100%.

center: Do you have a funny or unusual moment(s) you’ve experienced in sports?

Kleist: There is nothing funny or unusual 🙂

center: What is the best thing about being a student-athlete?

Kleist: You can spend time with your friends for a few extra hours a day.

center: What words of wisdom can you offer other student-athletes?

Kleist: The part of the sport that you hate the most or that makes you want to quit. It’s the same thing that makes winning more fun. Because you know what it takes to get to this point.

center: Finally, pancakes or pancakes?

Kleist: Pancakes made easy. You can fill each little indentation with that much syrup.

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