Kiara Galarza, a junior at Bronx River High School , shares her journey through her first basketball season with the Lady Lions, highlighting the challenges and triumphs she experienced on and off the court.
Q: What sport are you playing this season?
A: “I am playing basketball this season”
Q: How long have you been playing?
A: “This is my first year playing basketball”
Q: What inspired you to play this sport?
A: “I wanted something to keep me motivated during the off-season because I play two other sports. I also want to keep my grades up and be on top of my classes.”
Q: What is your position on the team?
A: “I am center and wing.”
Q: What is the best part about playing this sport?
A: Basketball keeps me on top of my classes and motivated on days I don’t attend school. It also keeps me productive and improves my social skills outside of school.”
Q: What is the most challenging part about participating in the sport?
A: “The most challenging sector about playing basketball is balancing home and my school life. Basketball requires a lot of time, which brings me difficulty in balancing my classes.”
Q: Describe what a typical meet or game is like.
A: “All the players must be on time and ready for warm-ups and stretching. We need to focus and have mental stability. Lastly, we need to prepare ourselves for physical endurance.”
Q: How do you feel like the season is going so far?
A: “Basketball has been challenging. We lost a lot of players due to injuries and the team is feeling discouraged.”
Q: What advice do you have for others who want to participate in this sport?
A: “Stay on top of your school work. Prioritize school, set aside time for your sport and stay motivated. Even if you lose a game, there will be more opportunities to win. Do not doubt yourself, have fun, and don’t let challenges stop you.”
Q: What are you and your team’s goals for the season?
A: “Work hard, win as many games as possible and finish off strong.”
Q: Do you play any other sports? Which is your favorite?
A: “I play softball and volleyball on the side. My favorite sport is softball and I have been playing it for the longest time.”
Q: When you graduate from high school, do you plan to continue playing any sports?
A: “I have other goals for college but if I get an opportunity to play a sport, I will play either softball or volleyball in college.”
