The Next Level

Nikiski's Rabung does well at UAF

Karen Rabung, a 2003 graduate of Nikiski Middle-Senior High School, received an honorable mention from the Great Northwest Athletic Conference in early December. Rabung, a freshman at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, received honorable mention for her efforts at the 2003 Mt. McKinley Bank North Star Invitational.

Rabung led the Nanooks by totaling 26 points and 15 rebounds in the two games. She was named to the all-tournament team. The Nanooks beat Morgan State 73-52 in the opening round but lost to Army 77-52 in the championship game.

Kasilof's Hakkinen competes in World Cup

After illness plagued his 2002-03 season, Skyview graduate Jay Hakkinen got back into World Cup Biathlon racing recently in Kontiolahti, Finland, in the first World Cup event of the season.

Thursday, Hakkinen was the top U.S. finisher in a 10-kilometer sprint, finishing 40th with a time of 32 minutes, 38.2 seconds. Sunday, in the 12.5-kilometer pursuit, Hakkinen slipped to 45th place, but was still the top U.S. finisher.

The Next Level highlights Kenai Peninsula athletes who have gone on to participate in athletics after high school. If you know of such an athlete, contact the Peninsula Clarion sports staff at by phone at 283-7551, by fax at 283-3299 or by e-mail at clarion@alaska.net.