Tag Archive for: advice to younger players

FINLEY’S NOT FINISHED

AKRON OH- In this latest YSN Player Profile, Anthony Hartwig sits down with Finley Kennedy, a standout senior on the Hoban girls basketball team. Kennedy, the sole senior this season, opens up about the emotional journey of her final high school season and the responsibilities that come with being the team’s veteran leader.

Kennedy admits the emotional weight of being the only senior and the inevitable transition of leaving her teammates behind. Yet, her ambitions continue beyond high school as she eyes playing basketball at the next level. Reflecting on her role, she credits her composure and experience in keeping the team calm and focused. Kennedy emphasizes the importance of balancing emotional expression to maintain positive momentum on the court. The Hoban Knights, known for their winning tradition across all sports, hold a significant legacy that Kennedy upholds. She speaks proudly of the high standards, particularly in the girls’ basketball program, known for their intense defensive pressure and their reputation for rigor and success.

Kennedy’s basketball roots run deep, influenced by her mother, a college basketball coach, who instilled both skill and a strong faith in her daughter. Her comfort in navigating her basketball journey is evident in how she balances athletics with academics, maintaining a strong performance even with a lighter class load during her senior year. Looking ahead, Kennedy is considering a move to Florida, fueled by the promise of sunshine, as she pursues business marketing. Her decision-making process in choosing a college revolves around the value of forming relationships both on and off the court. Finley’s journey, supported by her faith and family, is a testament to her resilience and ambition. As she steps off the court for Hoban, her legacy of leadership and tenacity leaves a lasting impact on her team and the Hoban sports community.

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BOBBY BUCKETS

BESSEMER PA- Mohawk basketball standout Bobby Fadden is not just a prolific scorer but also a budding leader. In a recent interview with YSN, Fadden discussed his transition from an emerging talent to a seasoned veteran entering his junior season.

“I’m excited to be a junior and take on a leadership role following Jay Rona last year,” Fadden shared with co-host Anthony Hartwig. Having surpassed 1,000 points already, Fadden emphasized the importance of communication and emotional leadership in his new role. Reflecting on his goals, Fadden stated his desire to enhance his jumper and aim for a championship ring for his team. Fadden’s enduring love for basketball traces back to his early years, influenced significantly by his father, the former Mohawk basketball coach. Despite initially favoring football and baseball, Fadden’s passion for basketball was ignited by the constant motion and energy the sport demands.

Crediting his father and Coach O’Layer as pivotal influences, Fadden highlighted the lessons on attitude and resilience instilled in him. “You can’t talk to refs, you can’t complain. You have to get over it and go to the next play,” he noted. A multifaceted student-athlete, Fadden balances a challenging academic schedule, excelling particularly in shop classes and tackling pre-calculus and statistics. His ambitions extend beyond high school with hopes to play football or basketball in college and potentially pursue a career in engineering or accounting. Above all, Fadden embraces his role as a mentor and role model for younger students. “I want to make a good impact on kids and let them know I’m a good person,” he expressed. Closing the interview, Fadden acknowledged the support of his parents, coaches, and teammates, emphasizing their contribution to his journey. As Mohawk’s season unfolds, all eyes will be on Fadden, both as a player and a leader.

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