By Derrick Smith

Practice is an essential part of becoming better at anything. For athletes, regular practice times not only make the athlete better, but it can also help with the cohesiveness and chemistry of the team. Emily Myers says that practice is important, but the extra practice is where you separate yourself from others. 

“As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned that the time spent outside of practices and games is key to improving the little things,” Myers said. “Whether it’s going to shoot, work on ball handling, or something else. Also being disciplined enough to know the things you need to spend more time on, knowing there is always something you can work on to improve your game.”

Emily is a junior at Kingfisher High School, where she is a member of the basketball and track teams. 

“I have played basketball since the age of eight and have run track since the seventh grade,” she said. “I’m a guard or forward on our basketball team. I run the 100-meter hurdles, 4×200 meter relay, 300-meter hurdles, and the 4×400 meter relay.”

Throughout her life, Myers says that she has been blessed with a lot of people who have helped shape her into the person that she is today. But she says there are a couple of people that have had the biggest impact on her. 

“My two biggest role models, although I have many, have to be my parents. They show continuous support to everyone around them, especially the people they love. They are two of the most hard-working people I have ever met and don’t shy away from challenges. They never miss a game, track meets, or school activity that my siblings and I are competing in. My dad is the best father figure and coach, and helps guide us to success every day, and reminds us to ‘stay hungry.’ My mom is our biggest cheerleader and makes sure we know she’s got our back no matter what.”

Myers is also a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the National Honor Society.