November 2024
By Kimberly Martinez, Staff Reporter
Jackelyn Reyes is an outgoing, bubbly, and very athletic eleventh-grader who’s passionate about sports and strives to be successful despite coming across some challenges. With a positive mindset and sincere dedication, she is able to overcome any obstacle thrown in her path and persevere to be a strong, assertive individual. The Cardinal Post talked to Jackelyn about her motivation, her experience as an athlete, and her life outside of sports. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
What motivates you during your basketball games?
JR: What motivates me is my teammates because I feel like whenever one of us is down we’re always encouraging each other, even the little mistakes we always have each other’s backs and motivate one another.
What inspired you to join the girls basketball team?
JR: What inspired me to join the girls basketball team is that it started off in middle school I joined for fun just to try something, over time I’ve enjoyed it more–just learning and the new connections I’ve made and relationships with people. Because most of the team I have had that connection with them since middle school. It’s also because of the sport I really enjoy the sport especially with the people. That makes it more fun.
Are you in any other sports, if so is it hard managing your time between two sports?
JR: Yes. So I do basketball, obviously, and I also do track and cross country, I would say it’s pretty easy because basketball is season is from November towards January and half of February but it does get a bit complicated with that because track starts in February as well [and goes] through the beginning of May. That time around February and March it gets crowded because after school I have to go to practices after basketball and it’s hard managing my time. But I make it work. It is going to be a lot more easier this year because I have a car now and I’ll be able to get myself places where I need to be because before I had to rely on my parents which made things a bit difficult.
Were there any challenges you faced on the court that helped you improve your skills?
JR: Yes. I would say communication because freshman year I was not as vocal as I am now. I didn’t really communicate as well and I feel like over time I definitely have gotten more comfortable because I was very quiet and I feel a lot better advocating for myself and speaking up.
What are some of your hobbies/after school activities you enjoy that don’t involve sports?
JR: One activity I love doing is baking. I like baking with my sister. We have a lot of fun. And I really enjoy being outside with my dog too. We just chill out there. It’s fun. [And], just like family time. Honestly, staying in the living room talking–just like giving each other updates about what’s happening.
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