Senior Ian Husselbeck Shines as Athlete & Artist

Ian Husselbeck is one of Huntington High School’s best athletes, starring on the Blue Devil boys’ soccer team. But the senior has other interests, too, including art.

“I have enjoyed my experience at Huntington,” Mr. Husselbeck said. “I wouldn’t be able to sum it up using one word. It has been great as a whole. All of my teachers have been great and have done a successful job in teaching me the content at hand, whether it is on or off the field.”

The teenager was a Blue Devil soccer captain and he’s tough as nails on the field. But he has a whole different side, too. He’s developed a wonderful relationship with art teacher Jenna Merget.

“This was my first year having Ms. Merget and I’m glad she has helped me further explore my artistic side,” Mr. Husselbeck said. “She really takes the time to sit with her students, get to know them and teach them.”

Mr. Husselbeck is committed to play on the SUNY College at Oswego’s men’s soccer team. “I’m interested in health and fitness and science and luckily this year I’ve been able to take that passion and connect it with my artwork,” he said.

The teenager is taking class in Advanced Placement Environmental Science, AP US Government & Politics with Economics, Film/Short Story, Sports Literature, Introduction to Statistics (Beacon college credit program) and Ceramics & Sculpture I.

“My favorite class is Ceramics and Sculpture,” Mr. Husselbeck said. “I have this class at the end of the day. It’s a chill environment where I can get in the zone and create.”

The teenager describes himself as a “happy and chill guy.” He’s athletic; he’s close to his family. “Many people don’t know it, but I am fairly skilled at sculpting,” he said.

“Ian is a hardworking and passionate student,” Mrs. Merget said. “He is determined to create and does so in a confident manner. One goal I have for Ian this year is to have him working on the potter’s wheel. I am honored that I had the opportunity to work with him and hope that he continues to study art in college, even if it is as an elective.”

Mr. Husselbeck has played three seasons of varsity soccer alongside his twin brother, Kieran, who will also graduate with Huntington’s Class of 2023. They both captained last fall’s Blue Devil team.

A great student, Mr. Husselbeck’s first quarter academic grade average exceeded 100. As he goes about finishing the final requirements for his high school degree, the teenager is getting most out of every day.