No chore too big

Glenbrook North co-captain has proper priorities

October 05, 2001|By Bob Sakamoto.

Sebastian Klosowiak had to take family leave and miss football practice earlier this season.

He had to baby-sit for his 8-year-old brother Konrad and 4-year-old sister Bianca.

There's no questioning the priorities in Klosowiak's life, even though the talented 6-foot-1-inch, 180-pound receiver/defensive back is a co-captain for No. 20 Glenbrook North's undefeated team.

His parents, Boggie and Mariola, emigrated here from Poland and brought with them the "Old Country" values that define Klosowiak's home life.

"My parents came from very strict families, and I've been raised the same way," said Klosowiak. "My parents had to go to a wedding that time [missed practice], and they don't trust baby-sitters."

In addition to keeping up with his studies, Klosowiak--who had three interceptions, two long punt returns that set up touchdowns and five catches for 80 yards and a TD last week--does a few other things. He works six days a week around the house cleaning his room, doing his own laundry, cooking meals, washing dishes, mowing the lawn, taking out the trash and washing the family car. Mom and Dad give him a day off on Sundays.

"There's no talking back to my parents," Klosowiak said. "Whatever they say, I do. Some of my friends find it amazing I can do all this stuff. But I don't see them doing very much, and that amazes me."

His parents are beginning to grasp the concept that football could provide their son with a free college education. Minnesota, New Mexico, Western Michigan and Northern Illinois are among the schools that have contacted their oldest child.

An assistant coach from Ball State called before Klosowiak had a chance to explain the nuances of college recruiting to his parents. His father told the coach his son was busy with his homework and couldn't be bothered.

"Oh, I expect Sebastian will miss another practice or two this season," Glenbrook North coach Frank Whalen said. "He's in a unique situation, and I totally understand.

"Sebastian is our best cover cornerback and plays man-to-man 95 percent of the time against the other team's best receiver."

Klosowiak sees a future upside to his chores at home.

"I think all that stuff I do around the house is going to help me later on in life," Klosowiak said. "And if I get married, my wife will have someone who already knows how to cook and clean."