Shawano Senior’s Battle Results In State Recognition

SHAWANO, WI- A Shawano Seniors fight back to the volleyball court has gotten her some statewide recognition. Abby Tuma was selected as the WIAA’s Spirit of Sport Award winner for this year after she was able to return to the volleyball court after a two-year battle with medulloblastoma, a form of brain cancer.

Shawano Activities Director Joel Wondra and Shawano High School Volleyball Coach Lew Worthington nominated Abby as she was able to win her medical battle and play Volleyball again during her Senior year.

“They developed the award back in 2008,” Wondra said. “Through her battle, she had two goals, she was determined to beat cancer and to return to the game she loved and Abby has overcome adversity like no other.

Abby was told of her selection earlier this year by the WIAA. Stephanie Hauser of the WIAA said the process includes selecting groups or individuals that fit into one of three categories.

An individual or group that has demonstrated exemplary sportsmanship or citizenship, A group or individual who has exceeded normal expectations in assisting others. or an individual or group that has overcome adversity or challenging circumstance.

That day was in Menasha. Tuma says she remembers it well. “I remember I had subbed in and the whole crowd got up and cheered as I went into the game and it was the best feeling and we ended up winning that game so it was a great day.”

Abby’s mom Kerri said she was in the stands that night. “I cried and it was amazing to see her back on the court in a Shawano jersey playing the sport that she loves.”

That moment came after a two-year battle off the court.

“I don’t think it actually hit me yet that I won this award, but it does give me goosebumps every time someone talks about it,” Abby said. “It is a great feeling to know my hard work paid off.”

In January of 2019, Abby was admitted to the hospital and began her long road to recovery.

“I never thought that I would have to give up volleyball, and it was really hard. The sport of volleyball has been in my blood since I was a little girl.”

Abby’s return started as a manager for her team, something that she said meant a lot to her at the time. “I was at practice every day and my team was very thankful that I was there for them.”

She said that fueled her even more. “When there was a chance that it could possibly go away from me, I worked as hard as I could do to get it back.”

WIAA’s Stephanie Hauser said that is what stood out to them.

“What really stood out for us was the fact that getting back on the volleyball court was so important to her that it was a goal and the athletics helped her overcome everything.”

The honors are done yet for Tuma. “Abby will be presented an award at our meeting which we are shooting to take place at the WIAA Annual Meeting in May so we can do it in person, Hauser said. Along with that, she is also a candidate for a Sectional level award and possibly a national level award for her story.

Abby was honored by the Shawano Athletic Department Monday night at the Winter Sports Banquet.

We could not be more proud of Abby for her perseverance,” Wondra told the group.

Abby’s mom and dad were also in attendance to take in the moment.

“I look up to her,” mom Karri said. She is my hero and it just melts my heart.

ABBY AND HER MOM KERRI LOOK BACK AT HER RETURN TO THE COURT