Clara Golden '17 Recruiting Profile

Rule number 1: Never be number 2. Rule number 2: Always strive for number 1. Over the years, basketball has changed my life drastically in emotional, physical, and mental ways. When I was younger I was small, timid, shy, no self-motivation, but always had this athletic passion. As the years went on my love for the game was incredibly high. I had the support from my mother and father, everything was in place. Then again nothing is ever handed over to you that easy. Throughout my high school years I dealt with many obstacles: the taunting from my teammates, balancing my academic and athletic life, keeping myself in a positive state of mind. Focusing on me and my future was difficult in the horrible environment I was in. These obstacles reminded me of who I am, who I used to be, and who I can become. I thought to myself "God would never put me through anything I could not handle". I grew to have this state of mind that I could handle anything. I was willing to sacrifice and work for my position, Rule number 1: Never be number 2. Rule number 2: Always strive for number 1. This change within myself not only made me mentally stronger but it created in me a leader.  My athletic endurance, my fantastic academic scores, my leadership abilities have all lead me to may opportunities. One of my recent opportunities was to be evaluated by Mr. Tom Kruyper, this man brought to light that with my abilities playing college basketball is actually a possibility.  It won't be easy, nothing is ever served on a "Golden" platter for you. I just keep reminding myself, Rule number 1: Never be number 2. Rule number 2: Always strive for number 1.