VYPE: Can you tell us a bit about your background, both in terms of academics and sports?
Shannon Catron: I’ve been a Stilwell Indian since preschool and have been involved in sports ever since I was little. My family is a very competitive, hardworking bunch, so my love for winning came from them. Basketball was always one of my favorites, but I really grew to love it even more in high school. My way of thinking is do whatever you’re doing to thebest of your ability. I always try to apply that with sports and in the classroom. I’m in the top percentage of my class. I work to stay at the top as both a student and athlete, and I have for all four years.
VYPE: What inspired you to start playing your sport?
SC: I’ve been fortunate to have wonderful teams, coaches and parents through my basketball career. My parents always encourage me when I feel like giving up or am stuck. My mom is always cheering me on no matter what I do and lifting me up. My dad always has something positive to say, even on the bad games. They both individually inspire me and are a blessing to have on my side. I think this sport was the first to show me how if you put in the work, the results will follow. That’s pushed me to love this sport more and more, making me want to become the best player I can be.
VYPE: Which athlete, professional or otherwise, do you look up to and why?
SC: I look up to many people, such as anyone of my family or teammates being people who I admire. When I was a freshman, me and four other girls were brought up to play with varsity. We battled everything from back flash to COVID-19 quarantines together, and I look up to those girls with so much heart. Another teammate I look up to would be my twin(Lauren) because she continues to push and cheer me on after all these years, showing her dedication to our team.
VYPE: How do you balance the demands of academics and athletics in your daily schedule?
SC: As a student athlete, you succeed by prioritizing the student part of that title. Even in academics, I enjoy competing and pushing myself for that top spot. I am active in many clubs and sports, including basketball, and am also getting a head start by taking concurrent classes. It can be overwhelming or tiring at times, but the overall outcome is worth it.
VYPE: Can you share a memorable moment or achievement from your high school sports career that stands out to you?
SC: There are so many fun, happy times with my team and this sport. One of my favorite moments would have to be the Area Tournament from my sophomore year, specifically the last two games. From shooting game-winning free throws in the overtime game of the Semi-finals to winning the double-overtime game in the finals that punched our ticket to the state tournament, it is a super memorable moment.
VYPE: What challenges have you faced in your sports journey, and how did you overcome them?
SC: I have been blessed throughout my high school career, avoiding any major injuries. I have had amazing coaches and teammates all four years. With all that said, I would say confidence and motivation are my biggest challenges. It’s easy to give up or trick yourself into a negative mindset, but you must stay strong and do what you think will benefit yourself and the team.
VYPE: How has being part of a team influenced your personal growth and character development?
SC: I think my team is a main reason why I love this sport so much. There are so many good things I could say about all my teammates. We are a loaded team, stacked with awesome, experienced seniors who I love and have played with all four years. We are always pushing each other and expect the best because we know that we are stronger together. I think our bond with each other is visible on and off the court.
VYPE: What role do your coaches play in your development as an athlete, and is there a particular coach who has been especially influential?
SC: I have been blessed with amazing coaches throughout my high school basketball career. From middle school to my first three years of high school, Coach Glen Cone and Cody Cone have encouraged me along the way. Although Coach Terry Sweeny has only been with our team for a short while, he has helped me to grow into a better athlete and teammate, as well.
VYPE: What are your plans after high school?
SC: I plan on continuing my education to pursue a degree for a possible medical or financial career. I’m keeping my doors open, so I have yet to decide where I will attend college. If the opportunity arose, I could see myself furthering my basketball career as well.
