The 'Eagle Times' Student Newspaper

The Lady Eagles battle under the bucket during a recent basketball game. (Photo by Lauren Cunningham)

Anderson adds depth to court

By Diana Hatcher

January 31, 2005

For many students, sports play a major role in their high school careers. Sports open doors of opportunity and establish friendships between the players. Quite a few seniors at Silver Lake High School have been participating in sports for all four of their high school years. One of these seniors is Ronnie Anderson.

Since she was a freshman, Anderson has been involved in many athletic activities, including basketball. The current Lady Eagles basketball team benefits from having a player who has participated all four years.

Anderson said she tries to support the newer players on the team.

“I try to encourage them, befriend them, and help them along,” she stated.

Coach Loren Ziegler, head girls’ basketball coach, said her versatility helps the team.

“She helps the team by developing other parts to her game. Rather than just staying an inside player, she now helps by being more of an outside player…she’s really been a good leader for us,” said Ziegler.

Both Anderson and Coach Ziegler agree that one of her strengths includes being able to play all positions, but Ziegler revealed that her strengths include her mind and body.

“Her biggest strength is her toughness, both physical and mental. She’s very competitive,” said Ziegler.

And her competitiveness shows. Anderson averages 10.5 points and seven rebounds per game.

Senior Ronnie Anderson receives support prior to a game from the numerous Silver Lake Lady Eagle fans. (Photo by Abby Cunningham)

The remuneration Anderson has received from basketball has been advantageous to her school years as well as her future. Anderson said playing the sport has helped her develop throughout high school.

“Playing basketball has probably helped me with having better friendships, getting to know the upper and lower classmen, and will help me with tougher challenges,” stated Anderson.

Unlike some students, Anderson had the opportunity to play with her older sister, Missy, her freshman year. Anderson explained why her freshman year was her favorite.

“I got to play along side with my older sister, and we won the state championship,” said Anderson.

Although Anderson has been a great leader and player on Silver Lake’s basketball team, she plans to play volleyball for Allen County Community College.

“I chose ACCC because it is a small college, and it offered the majors I was interested in,” she said.