By: Sarah Hartwell

Sarah wanted to be just like her brother Thomas.

She was a small shy girl who enjoyed trying new

things, but didn't like getting out of her comfort

zone. Overall she was a competitive person with a

heart of a champion who wanted something to do.

At the same time she was searching for the love of

her life.

Ballet was Sarah’s first love. Since

ballet wasn’t a competitive sport, she

didn't have to worry about outdoing

her brother.

Sarah’s brother didn't take long to start a new

activity. When Thomas joined the local soccer

team, Sarah did as well. After the first few

games, Sarah's mom noticed that she only

enjoyed eating the oranges at half time.

Luckily Sarah’s brother was always changing

his mind.

Before Sarah was able to try something

new, she had to move to Washington

because of her mom’s job. Sarah didn’t

want to leave her friends, but she knew

she would make new ones.

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Sarah was still on the search for her

true love. The next sport Thomas

tried was basketball. She was hoping

the third activity would be the charm.

Sarah went to Emerald City

Basketball Academy (ECBA) to

learn the fundamentals of the game.

When Sarah walked into the ice cold

building the smell of the gym filled

her nostrils. After the sharp aroma

that met her at the door, she met the

love of her life.

He sat there peacefully on the dusty

hardwood floor dressed in orange.

When Sarah went to approach him,

someone caught his attention before

she was able to tap him on the shoul-

der. His body was round and smooth.

He didn't talk much, but stood out from

the crowd.

This was when she realized that basket-

ball was her true love. “Are you serious

about basketball, Sarah?” Asked Sarah’s

mom. Without any hesitation Sarah said,

“Yes”!

He moved through the air

quickly and crisply when pushed

the right way. While Sarah

watched closely, she learned

how to get his attention. All she

had to do was say, “Ball”.

Sarah’s love for the game was found at

Emerald City Basketball Academy.

The warehouse like building was the

start of her successful basketball ca-

reer.

After a successful high school career,

Sarah signed with Georgia Tech to

continue her basketball career.

Credits Thanks to my mom for providing the photos and encouraging me

through my basketball journey. Another thanks to all of my coaches

and mentors throughout my basketball career.