Josh Neer '15 Recruiting Profile

It's been my dream to play college basketball since I first started playing in first grade.  I have been fortunate in that my parents fully support my dream and have provided every opportunity for me to improve my skills and achieve a level of playing where I believe I can contribute at the next level.  I've loved the game since the first time I played and devote the majority of my time to working out, training and improving my basketball skills.  I'm a competitive team player, always looking for ways to improve mine and my team's performance.  Over the years I've played, I've been able to develop into a strategic player, seeing the floor and adapting as a play unfolds.  Both of my high school coaches have praised me for my help side defense as well as my continuous engagement and hustle on the court.  My basketball trainer tells me that I'm one of the hardest workers that he's ever trained and knows that I'll work at whatever challenge he gives me until I master it.  I challenge myself to give my all - every practice, every game, every play.

I pride myself in not only working hard in bettering my game, I also work exceptionally hard in the classroom.  School to me is just as important as basketball and serves as another example of the work ethic I employ every day.  I plan to continue to work hard throughout my college career to maintain the good grades I've earned in high school.

I am truly blessed in life, having strong support from my family and friends, with them always pushing me to better myself both on the court and off.  Although I don't yet know what area of study I'll be pursuing, I hope to be able to take my college education and basketball experiences and find a way to make a meaningful difference.

Working hard is important but most important to me is ensuring I live by the Golden rule.  I try to display my Christian beliefs through my actions in all situations, whether on the court or in everyday life.  An evangelist mission trip to Wisconsin to talk and help the homeless taught me how blessed I am and it's important for me to look for ways to help others.  Our high school basketball team is proud to pray as a team after every game, praying for safe travels, for having the opportunity to play and to grow closer together as a team and as a follower of Christ.

I like to make people laugh and bring humor into even difficult situations.  I've always had a knack for making people smile and providing encouragement when they seem to need it most.  However, when it's time to be serious and focus in practice or a game, like flipping a switch, I am able to fully engage in the task that is assigned to me.

I've been told that I have a great attitude and my coaches have always liked the way I listen to direction and then apply it to my game.  Although my goal is to contribute to a college basketball program, I realize that I have to work hard and earn a spot on a squad - and plan to do so.

This past season has been a great learning lesson leading into my senior year of high school.  Our team record was 19-5 and made school history in winning the Ohio Cardinal Conference for the first time.  I was a key contributor to the success of the team.  A look at my stats shows that I was second in points, free throws, steals, assists, and blocks and led the team in rebounds.  I look to improve on all parts of my game in the coming year and help my team meet all of our goals for the season.

Thank you for taking a few minutes to learn more about me.  If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact me through the contact information provided.