Raw athletes no longer as young guns hone their skills
Freshmen athletes continue to gain confidence transitioning to college ball
by Emmanuel Bernal
Staff Reporter
In the first issue of The Chaparral, we looked at up-and-coming freshmen athletes who were displaying raw talent before the start of the season.
The keyword there was “raw.”
Leaving senior year of high school to play in college sports is an unforgiving experience. One goes from the top level in a class measuring strength, athleticism, and knowledge of the game, only to find themselves entering what seems like a whole other world. A world where the athletes are bigger than the sophomore and junior high school students they got comfortable playing; where the game becomes not just faster physically, but mentally as well. Some freshmen get overwhelmed and decide it is no longer for them, but others thrive on the challenge. Pam Manosca, William Becnel, and Jessica Garza are among those who continue to meet the challenge head on.
Although Garza has been sidelined for a few games due to an ankle sprain, her presence around the team should not be underestimated. “Through my development here I have become a lot more vocal, on and off the court,” says Garza. “If I noticed something going wrong in our gameplan, I mention it to the team. I gained confidence reading plays and calling them out. I’m injured now, but I do as much to help on the sideline also.” Garza’s competitiveness seems to be elevated as well: as the game gets closer, the calls get louder.
Becnel continues to show potential to the coaches who admire his work ethic. “He’s got a positive attitude no matter what you throw at him,” says assistant coach Jerry Carmona. “Whether it’s in the weight room or on the court, he always has a great attitude toward his work.
“Having a positive attitude in a team is contagious, and its a strong attribute for a player to have on any team. Although he may not be starting this season, its important for a young player not to be thrown in when his game is not fully developed, as it can cause confusion for ones confidence when it could simply be that they’re just not ready.”
“I’m gonna continue to work on my defense which is my key struggle this season, but I do not feel this as a setback at all. I’m getting better every day,” Becnel said.
Pam Manosca’s game seems to be running on all cylinders these days. Coming off a very impressive 13-point game Thanksgiving weekend, she jokingly attributes her success to her “winning smile.” But her three-point game is not all that bad either.
“We have all built great chemistry torwards each other,” says Manosca. “It’s extremely great to be a part of this. The whole team just seems to be in sync.” As Manosca continues to give an impressive performance each week and the girls basketball team is beginning to get healthy with players returning, this can prove to be a very promising season for the lady Roadruners.
The help of the older players on the team plays a crucial part in their development as well. Each freshmen says they have all been very helpful. Teammates sharpen each other in the world of sports. As these players continue to get better, the tradition continues for future prospects.
Short URL: http://thechaparral.com/?p=4020
Posted by Health & Sports
on Dec 5 2011. Filed under Advisor Approved, Health & Sports, TOP STORIES, Vol. 57, Issue 6.
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