INDIANAPOLIS — Caitlin Clark didn’t immediately recognize Dale and Suzy Kuklinski when she passed them during the Indiana Fever’s charity golf outing in August 2024. It wasn’t until Dale called out, “We’re the face painters,” that Clark turned back with a smile.
The Kuklinskis, a married couple from the Midwest, have become recognizable figures at Fever games thanks to their spirited face paint, bold outfits, and unwavering support for Clark. What began as a fun way to celebrate Iowa’s pride in their native star has grown into a full-fledged passion for the Fever.
For them, Clark isn’t just a professional athlete—she represents home. Dale describes her as “Iowa’s daughter,” someone who embodies the hardworking, grounded Midwestern values they hold dear. Following her move from the University of Iowa to the WNBA, the couple decided they wouldn’t just cheer from afar they would bring their enthusiasm to Indiana and rally behind the Fever.
Since then, the Kuklinskis have embraced their new role as unofficial superfans. They’ve traveled for games, painted their faces in team colors, and carried signs that spotlight their loyalty. Fans, players, and even Clark herself have come to know them by sight. What makes their story stand out is not just their creativity but the heart behind it: they see supporting Clark as supporting family.
Their devotion also reflects a wider trend. Clark’s arrival in the WNBA has drawn in new audiences, especially from Iowa and the Midwest, where her college career turned her into a phenomenon. For the Kuklinskis, every Fever game is another chance to keep that connection alive and to show Clark she has a home-court advantage no matter where she plays.
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