Nicolet National Bank Senior Spotlight

Parents’ names: Ken and Sara Ciak
Siblings: Emma Ciak (twin sister)
Position or events: Cornerback (football), guard (basketball), midfield (lacrosse)
Instagram: @alexciakk

Career Highlight: Winning State football in 2024.

How did you get started playing your sport?
I started playing flag football with my dad being the coach and I have continued playing ever since.

How has the balance between academics and athletics changed for you from freshman to senior year?
As I have grown up, I have prioritized school way more than I used to. I used to really focus on sports, then whatever time was left in the day, I would put into school. I realized how important school is and started putting that first, with athletics being the second priority.

What is your favorite part about this sport? What is the most challenging part about this sport?
My favorite part of football is the group of guys I am with. Whether we are doing the hardest practice ever or a walkthrough, the group I am with never fails to make it fun. The most challenging part is the two-a day practices towards the end of summer.

What has been your most memorable experience in high school sports so far?
My most memorable experience of all sports is the week of State football, my junior year. All of the activities we did at school, after school and the trip to Madison that Thursday-Friday. Everything about the preparation for the game was memorable.

Do you have a bucket list goal that pertains to your sport?

Win State back-to-back, First Team All FRCC-South, FRCC-South Defensive Back of the Year, All Region, All State, Play in the WFCA All-Star Game.

How does it feel as a senior, to look back throughout high school and see your growth (as a person and athlete)?
It feels great and humbling to know all the work I have put into sports has paid off. I am grateful for all of the opportunities and resources available to me to allow me to have a chance to succeed.

Do you have any pre-game rituals/routines/superstitions?
My pre-game ritual consists of going to Kwik-trip with the boys, listening to music in the locker room and then some silent meditation before the pre-game requirements with the team.

Dream vacation destination?
Any tropical island in Greece.

Any quotes that help you in your sport or life in general?
“Have you ever seen a dog warm up?” That is a quote from my defensive back coach, Coach Francis. That helps me get in the right mindset for practice and inspires me on game days.

Favorite food?

Ribeye.

Random fun fact about you?
I used to hit bombs in baseball.

Any hobbies outside of your sport?
I like to play golf and work out.

Favorite movie/TV show?
Favorite movie is Scarface.

Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to shout out?
Shoutout Coach Harrington!

Future Plans? (college, major, career, etc.)

I’m going to college to study business. I plan on playing football and lacrosse somewhere at the NCAA level for both, though I am uncommitted right now. I plan on following in my dad’s footsteps in management and eventually hope to run my own business.