Micaela Mersch '16 Recruiting Profile

Have you ever seen a true Cinderella? I am the REAL Cinderella (not the traditional story, but a modern version)! I am the blonde in a jersey with basketball shoes instead of a dress with glass slippers. Wikipedia has an analogy of “Cinderella” - meaning one whose attributes were unrecognized, or one who unexpectedly achieves recognition or success after a period of obscurity and neglect.

I was pushed to obscurity and made to feel insignificant, but recent head coaches saw my potential and allowed me court time. They brought me out from the shadows not to just be on the team, but to start and to excel. I felt like Cinderella in my sophomore year. The JV coach allowed me to play nearly every second of EVERY game. I realize it was “only” JV, but I played with all my heart. The previous head coach never allowed me to play varsity during my sophomore year and another Cinderella moment came along in my junior year. New coach – new rules – and yes, there I was not just on the varsity team for the first time, but a starter my first year. Words that still stick with me when I was in foul trouble – I need you. Wow… these are words I wasn’t sure I’d ever hear from a coach. A coach really needed me to help win the game. It was a late start with varsity in my high school years, but it made me even more determined to come out and shine. After being contacted with the possibility of playing college basketball my feelings are hard to describe. It was first shock, which quickly turned to joy that I could continue to do something that I’ve loved doing for the past 10 years!

I’ve given you my basketball background and basketball is one of my true LOVES, but I am also involved in many other activities. I also participate in marching band where I am currently first chair – my band was in the top 10% in the state of Texas in 2013. I also compete in track and field, and rodeo (speed events – I have a need for speed). I am quick on my feet (can run in shorter distance relays) and I’m strong (setting the all-time squat record at school – squatting 355 pounds). I am currently in the top 10% of my class and have an ACT score of 28. In my Junior year I was selected Honorable Mention and Academic All-District for basketball. In my Senior year I was selected Second Team and Academic All-District for basketball. If you are looking for a diverse, smart and athletic student, please consider me for your basketball program. I’d love to incorporate basketball into my college degree plans.