Takenzie Young (#1, 9) may be new to Manual’s girls’ varsity basketball team, but she isn’t new to the sport. And it shows on the court, as she consistently scores basket after basket.
The 5’6 freshman has had her share of success this year, working with her team to ensure numerous victories.
Young started competing in sixth grade at Grace James Academy. Her parents and uncles had played basketball, which helped spark her initial interest in the sport. She decided to continue her athletic journey when she arrived at Manual, and has since established herself as a valuable member of the Lady Crimsons.
Despite this being her freshman year, Young plays on both the freshman and varsity teams, and has displayed significant skill. She has bonded with the other girls, and although the team has had its challenges, she has enjoyed getting to know her teammates and coaching staff.
“Honestly, my favorite memory is probably [when] our team went to the lake. That was very, very fun, and I learned a lot more about my teammates- who they are, what they like to do, and a lot about the coaches as well,” Young said.
Young plays as both point guard and shooting guard for the Lady Crimsons’ basketball team. These positions require both talent and attention to detail, both of which Young has. Games often move quickly, so she has to constantly be on her toes.
But sometimes, all this thinking comes with a downside.
Like many athletes, Young has dealt with her share of negative self-talk. She recalled doubting herself during games, which impacted her playing.
“[I would be] telling myself, ‘Oh, I can’t do it or I forgot this,’ instead of just letting the game come to me,” Young said.
Regardless of her playing history, she struggled to trust her talent.
To overcome this, she realized that she had to put those things aside and play the game she loved.
“I just let it go. I let it stop me, let the game come to me. Couldn’t force anything,” Young said.
Despite these personal challenges, Young still manages to be a team player, encouraging and supporting her teammates even when they aren’t winning.
After a successful first year, Young intends to continue playing basketball throughout high school.
“I do plan to play at the collegiate level and continue to better my skills and training,” she added.
With three more seasons of high school to go, the sky’s truly the limit for Young.
