Sport Spotlight: Shalyn Dziewiatkowski

The Lookout Photo Editor Kaitlyn Delaney recently talked with LCC women’s basketball player Shalyn Dziewiatkowski. A graduate of Portland High School, Dziewiatkowski is currently a sophomore at LCC.

When did you start playing basketball?
“I started playing when I was very young, but it never got serious until seventh grade because soccer was my number one (sport).”

What is your favorite thing about basketball?
“Building relationships with my teammates and coaches. I just love the game of basketball in general, though.”

Who is someone who inspires you, in the sport or out of it?
“Someone who inspires me in basketball is my head coach from high school. He had so much confidence in me and motivated me throughout my high school career, and it made me love the game even more. My family is another big inspiration to me. They mean a lot to me.”

Is there one piece of advice you have been given that sticks with you?
“The only piece of advice that I really have taken with me into college basketball is, 'always work hard and give your best effort; not everybody has the chance to play in college like you do.' This has actually motivated me a lot because not everybody gets to play in college, you have to earn it. So I have really used that throughout my college career so far. This is what my dad has always told me, and my high school coaches.”

Do you have any game-day routines?
“The main thing I do on game days is listen to music on my way to the game to hype me up. Throughout the day I kind of just chill out and stay focused.”

Do you have any personal or team goals for the rest of the season?
“My main goal was to win more games than we did last year and we have already completed that goal. We have a very good team this year with a lot of potential and I think we have a really good chance to make it to the championship.”

Why did you choose LCC?
“Because it was close to home and I also loved the atmosphere. The coaches and players make you feel very welcome and it makes you feel like you are part of a family.”

What are your plans after LCC?
“To continue my education and obtain a degree in sonography.”