Hailey Lies
Grab the Ball! Freshman Regan Asbury goes up for a rebound during a tightly contested matchup at Marysville on February 15. With determination on her face, Asbury fights for possession in a pivotal moment of the game
You might know Kaitlin Kuhlmann as a school counselor, but this year she’s taken on a new title—assistant coach for the Rock Creek girls’ basketball team. It’s her first year in the role, and she’s already making an impact.
Kuhlmann believes the effort and attitude brought to practice directly affect game performance.
“We show up and are ready to go each day at practice,” Kuhlmann said. “We have improved a lot since the beginning of the season.”
Each basketball team has its own strengths, and the Rock Creek freshman girls are no different.
“We are able to see the floor and see each other and are not afraid to pass the ball,” Kuhlmann said.
In addition to physical skill, Kuhlmann emphasizes the mental lessons the sport teaches. She believes the ability to push through challenges is key.
“[Basketball teaches] the mentality of being able to push through, you’re going to be tired.” Kuhlmann said.
Every team needs leaders, and for Rock Creek, one of those is senior, guard, Mayci Clark. Clark says what she values most about basketball goes beyond the game itself.
“I like meeting the new people, [specifically] the freshmen,” Clark said. “I like the bus rides and getting food after, as well as the sport.”
Clark encourages younger students, especially freshmen, to give basketball a try, even if they’re unsure at first.
“Give it a try! Basketball might not be your favorite sport, but go out freshman year.” Clark said.
With graduation approaching, Clark said she’ll carry the relationships and memories with her.
“I like all the people I have met,” Clark said. “The connections I have made, the younger classmen who I only interact with in sports.”
For freshman Reagan Asbury, this is her first year playing basketball—and she’s stepping into a challenging position. As a post player, the role closest to the basket, Asbury is learning from the older teammates around her.
“They’re encouraging, especially since it is my first year,” Asbury said.
Whether it’s a senior finishing her final season, a freshman just starting out, or a coach in her first year on the sidelines, one message is clear from the Rock Creek girls’ basketball team: take the shot—on and off the court.