Delaney VanBlaricon '19 Recruiting Profile

My main goal is to continue as a student athlete but at the collegiate level. I am looking to major in either Physical Therapy or Speech Pathology and Audiology.

What makes me different than other recruits is that my vision of an athlete goes beyond physical attributes and stats. Mental Strength is key to success. Each game is a tool for your next game. Win or Lose its all a lesson. Its what I learn from them that helps elevate me as an individual and teammate!

Academics are important because its what will take me to the top. When basketball is over I want more. A CAREER! I was inducted into the National Honor Society and became Academic Scholar my Freshman year. I have been recognized each year in all core subjects for scoring advanced on the MAP Placement Testing. I am ranked in the top five of my class and working to be first by graduation. I work hard, study hard, and push myself hard. I control my academic success so why not, right!

Basketball is not just something I play its a family way of life. Growing up I can remember watching my dad and "his boys" traveling and playing in Adult tournaments. Then as he got older they start playing in 3 on 3 leagues. He is over 50 and stills plays. Competing and Basketball was what we did. My older siblings played basketball and then it was my turn. I always was a gym rat and to me that was the normal. I carry a basketball with me everywhere I go. Looking back I think man it would be so boring without basketball.....

Basketball has taught me a lot. It teaches Sportsmanship, Leadership, Lose. Teaches you about expectations and diversity. Playing AAU it became more personal. You play against a pool of girls just like you most wanting the same thing. To be the smaller player or the one nobody knows or worse yet the one everybody knows. You have to learn self control and faith. To play against bigger or better or more experienced players can get in your head. It taught me to listen and not just blindly watch. You have to process what you your watching.  It taught me to be selfish and unselfish within moments. Which in turn has given me the ability to refocus quickly in stressful situations. These lessons are invaluable off the court.

Basketball is FAMILY! Basketball is JOY! Basketball hopefully is my Stepping Stone to continue my joy and to help me work towards my career goals and set up my future.

Me as a recruit is more than just Stats. Knowledge, heart, desire, and a good representation off the court as a student and young adult is what I can offer you.