Sports

Athlete of the Week: Emma Kelley ’17

Freshman Emma Kelley ’17 has been making a name for herself on the court. This past week, against Worcester, sharpshooter Kelley hit numerous threes to keep Andover within scoring range of Worcester. The Phillipian caught up with Kelley to get a feel for her success:

**1) When did you start playing basketball and why?**
I started playing when I was in 2nd grade. I played on a YMCA team and was the only girl. My passion for basketball started then because I got angry when the boys wouldn’t pass the ball to me, and I worked hard to prove I was a competitor.

**2) Do you have any special superstitions?**
I wear the same socks every game (washing them of course).

**3) What’s your number and why?**
I am #5 because a player’s number correspond with the jersey size and #5 was the smallest number.

**4) Favorite way to celebrate a win?**
I thank my coaches, teammates and God. A win is made up of more than just the higher score. The way a team works together and pushes each other ultimately leads to a win or loss.

**5) Most memorable game, practice, or moment on the basketball field?**
The game against Worcester last Saturday was the most memorable moment of the season for me. The end of the game escalated very quickly with a series of made shots that drew us closer to the win. The crowd went wild with every steal or shot, fueling my own adrenaline. Though we lost the game, I walked away content with PA’s performance and I felt like we had won.

**6) What’s the first thought that goes through your mind when you hit a three?**
Hallelujah. It went in.

**7) Describe your shot.**
I always try to stay calm. I bend my knees, hold my follow-through and imagine it swishing. If it doesn’t go in, I convince myself that the next shot I take will fall.

**8) What have you been doing to improve your game recently?**
I think success comes down to two things; practice and state of mind. I try to go to the gym whenever I have time, and practice anything I struggled with in the last game. I have learned over the course of the season to always think positively, even after a making a mistake. If I say I WILL do something, I know I can do it, and ultimately I will achieve my goals.