Personal Statement
I have a friend named Reese who has Downs Syndrome that I first met in the lunch room during middle school. No one was sitting with him or encouraging him to be a part of their group so I invited Reese to sit with me at lunch and we have been daily “lunch partners” ever since. Reese has both mental and physical challenges, but he is always happy and is a loyal friend who has found his place at the table. As a result of my experience with Reese, I would like to pursue a course of study in college that would enable me to help others gain confidence and find their place. Teaching physical education and coaching would give me the opportunity to help kids who might otherwise be left out.
I have been playing competitive basketball since I was 9 and there is still nothing I enjoy more than the sounds, smells, and thrill of walking onto a basketball court. Along with a high basketball IQ, I have strong ball handling skills, good court awareness and the ability to score both inside and outside. As a 6'6" shooting guard, most people think basketball comes easy to me. While I have enjoyed a great deal of personal and team success throughout my basketball career, I have come to realize that there are always going to be those that are faster, quicker and more talented. While these things are out of my control, what I can control is always being the most coachable, hardest working player on the court. I like to have the ball in my hands when it is “crunch-time”. I know the thrill of making a “big shot” but find that making the pass that leads to the big shot is equally satisfying. I have also learned that “defense wins games” and that playing good team defense is much more challenging than playing good offense. When done right, basketball is the perfect combination of mental and physical exertion leading to a sense of satisfaction that is unequaled and fuels my desire to compete.
Since I first stepped onto the court, I have aspired to play at the collegiate level. Playing basketball has given me the opportunity to travel and meet new people allowing me to establish life-long friendships. The game has taught me not just the importance of hard work but to enjoy the process, the intense preparation and working with a team to reach a common goal. Learning the game with new teammates is both challenging and satisfying and experience has taught me that earning the respect and affection of teammates is much more important than popularity. The opportunity to play basketball at the highest level my abilities allow would be a privilege.
