Braden Pool-Harris

While working in customer service, it is important to keep cool and get the job done properly despite other employees’ lack of help, customers being angry, and bosses telling you what to do. I must complete tasks in a timely fashion, coordinating with other employees to make sure everything is done properly.

Being an athlete at the highest level was a lifetime goal of mine. Competing against the best, training daily, and representing a team were among the things I dreamed of. But being an athlete also means holding myself to the highest standard, both in training and in class. It means putting in extra hours to be a better player and a better student. Building reliable relationships on the court and in class, where trust and bonds get us through difficulty. Working intently to balance everything, but be the best I can be at all of it.

When coaching youth, it is important to act as a role model, developing the player both as a person and as an athlete. In this role, my goal was to positively influence the teams, justifying the importance of school, relationships, and athletics. Being available for questions or advice whenever possible was important, not only as a coach but also as a role model in the kids’ lives.