Athletics

Transcript

Let’s hear from Hayley. She’s a basketball All American and national champion. The Owens Express has won six national championships and countless conference titles. The Express offers volleyball, men’s and women’s basketball, baseball and softball, and women’s soccer. Tell us all about the winning traditions for the Owens Express, Hayley. Take it away.

– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. I knew I wanted to play collegiate basketball, just finding the right home was a tough decision. And I am so blessed that I’ve had the opportunity to play at Owens. I was nervous coming to Owens for basketball because I committed pretty late due to coaching changes at my previous college. I wasn’t sure if I was going to make friends or if people would welcome me, but turns out they became some of my best friends, we played super well together, and had great chemistry on and off the court. Typically, at most colleges, professors are hit or miss with being understanding a missing class due to sports. But at Owens, not only did the professors do all they could to help you, they also wanted nothing but the best for you in your sport. My teachers would tell me good luck in class or they would even email me. They became more than professors. Our basketball team was extremely successful. We were national champions in 2022. 2023, we were league champions and ranked number one in the nation for most of the year. I was the first team All American, which is a huge honor. After Owens, I will be attending Notre Dame College in Cleveland to obtain my bachelor’s degree in criminal justice as well as continuing my basketball career. Owens definitely set me up for success in athletics and academics. I can’t say enough good things about Owens. And that’s my story. Run it back, Alex.

– Thank you, Hayley, for telling us all about the Express. And congratulations on the national championship. That is amazing. The support from professors during the season plays a huge part in success in the classroom and on the court. And student athletes at Owens definitely see those benefits. Thanks again, Hayley.