Personal Statement
Making the varsity basketball team as a freshman was one of the greatest thrills of my life, and the result of years of hard work. After practice as a seventh and eighth grader, I would head home for dinner, and then to the YMCA to work on my skills and to play pickup ball with the guys. I learned I had to be quicker and faster as they showed no mercy. Although I didn’t start as a freshman, the experience of being part of a senior dominated and undefeated team was invaluable experience. Practicing against some of the best players in the area night after night taught me where I had to be to compete. I started as a sophomore and although not undefeated, we had an excellent year where I showed significant improvement. My junior year threw an unexpected challenge as we had very little experience, a new coach, a new system and the wins did not come often. Although very disappointing, I learned that things just don’t always work out the way you hoped, but those times call for doubling down, leadership and focusing on giving your best effort night after night. Character and teamwork matter whether the wins are coming or not.
I apply the same work ethic to academics, volleyball, community service work and the leisure activities I enjoy. I realize that even with my love of basketball, my education and my involvement in school and community activities are critical to my development and long term success. I want a college education and basketball to be a part of that experience. I sincerely believe my basketball skills and personal attributes make me worthy on your consideration.
