Girls Basketball Co-Captain Laney Cafua ’27 first picked up basketball in third grade, inspired by her mother’s collegiate career and drawn to the sport’s sense of community. Years later, that same value of connection shapes her leadership style, as she works to push her teammates to play at their best while boosting morale with constant encouragement.
While many are attracted to basketball’s pace and intensity, Cafua was motivated early on by something more personal.
“I started playing basketball in third grade, and I had always dreamed of playing basketball because my mom played in college, and I wanted to be just like her. I would describe myself as a very hardworking person. I think no matter what it is that I am doing, I am always going to give one hundred percent of effort and try my best,” said Cafua.
Teammate Maddie Marshall ’29 highlighted Cafua’s constant enthusiasm and dedication to the team’s success, both on and off the court.
“Her energy is very contagious. On the court, she’s always diving for loose balls, she’s super energetic, happy for everyone, and she cheers for everyone. She helps us know how to prepare, the stats, and how we need to come out. Before games, or the morning of, she’ll always text our group chat and get us all hyped for the game. It definitely gets our team going,” said Marshall.
Teammate Sara Damon ’29 added that Cafua’s leadership becomes especially visible in moments of pressure, steadying the team with calmness and encouragement.
“One of the biggest responsibilities is to lead the team in big moments and keep everybody calm, especially when the game is super close. Laney does a great job of speaking up when we’re in a tough situation, making sure everybody keeps their head up and keeps playing hard no matter what the score is. She leads by example, and her energy makes everybody else play hard the same way. Before every game, we get in a huddle, and Laney… tells us that we can stand with anybody on the court,” said Damon.
Cafua also expressed how she values building close relationships with her team, aiming to balance leadership with approachability.
“I strive to be someone that my teammates and more specifically younger teammates can look up to. I still want to be a leader and guide others, while being their best friend at the same time,” said Cafua.
Damon recalled a difficult practice where Cafua offered her reassurance.
“There was one practice that was really tough for all of us, and I was frustrated with myself and my performance. Laney talked to me and told me stories about when she was a freshman and how you can’t do everything perfectly. You’re going to make mistakes sometimes, but you have to forget about it, move on, and be who you know you are. That was really helpful for me,” said Damon.
As an Upper, Cafua still has time to continue developing as a player and pursue her long-term goals. No matter where her career takes her, she remains rooted in the relationships the sport has given her.
“All of my basketball teams over the years have been like a second family to me. The community and friendships that I am able to form through basketball have been some of the most meaningful,” said Cafua.
