Rapplean to be a Griffin!

FZN Senior Grant Rapplean recently committed to continue his athletic career at Fontbonne University located in St. Louis. Rapplean was one of FZN’s most well-rounded athletes, who participated in soccer, basketball, baseball, volleyball, track and golf while at North High. At Fontbonne, he plans to play both soccer and basketball. This past fall, Rapplean was part of a Panther soccer team that finished the season with an 18 – 6 mark. A three-year starter and four-year letterman on the pitch, Rapplean was a team leader with a work ethic described by Coach Brian Kelleher as, “Unmatched.” Kelleher went on to say, “Grant is a player that leads by example with his attitude and determination. He knows how to win and drives his fellow players to raise their level.” Rapplean scored 10 goals with 7 assists for the Panthers this past season, a season that represented a remarkable turn-around for a program that had won just 2 games a few years ago. For his efforts, Rapplean was placed the GAC Central “All-Conference” team.

During the winter season, Rapplean served as the point-guard for the Panthers District Championship basketball squad. A dangerous shooter beyond the arc, Rapplean averaged nearly 9 points per game and led the team in both assists (71) and 3-point baskets (68). He was a 2nd team “All-Conference” selection. Rapplean leaves FZN as the program's 4th all-time leader in 3-point basket percentage (40%) and as it's 3rd all-time leader in 3-point baskets (160). Head Coach Mike Uffmann credited Rapplean as being, "the heart and soul of our team." Uffmann went on to say, "Fontbonne is getting not only tremendous athlete, born a competitor, but they are also getting a great young man."

Fontbonne is a NCAA Division 3 institution that participates in athletics as a member of the St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. Rapplean with join 2019 FZN graduate Katie Grimes, who plays basketball for the Griffins, as a member of the Fontbonne athletic program.