When high school athletes compete, they are playing for more than just themselves. They are also playing for the name on the front of their uniform. Emma Loree is proud to be able to play for her school and it is not something that she takes lightly.
“Being able to represent Perkins-Tryon means more to me than just wearing the name on a piece of clothing,” she said. “It’s a chance to show pride in where I come from and the people who have helped shape me. It’s about carrying the values of our school and community wherever I go.”
Emma is a junior at Perkins-Tryon High School. She is a member of the softball team and the Future Farmers of America program.
Throughout her life, there have been people that have had an impact on her, both as an athlete and as a person.
“Two people in my life that have made a big impact on me would be my mom and dad,” she said. “They have always been my biggest role models and cheerleaders. A teacher that has been influential in my life would be Carla Cummings or as most people know her Coach Fuss, she kickstarted my love for softball from a young age. She was always there to cheer me on when I had my good days and was always there to help me get better on my worst days.”
While she works hard to be a solid athlete, Loree knows that she has to work just as hard to excel in the classroom in order to be able to compete. She says that while it can be tough at times, it is possible.
“Balancing school work and my activities takes focus and staying on top of things,” Loree said. “It can be hard sometimes, but I’ve learned to manage my time and keep my priorities straight so I can do my best in both.”
She has made a lot of memories during her time playing sports and Emma has one thing that has been the most memorable.
“I think my favorite memory so far has to be meeting all of the new people and building lifelong friendships.”
