By Sierra Willis
It’s no secret that being a collegiate athlete is hard work. Academics, practices, games, and
community service are vital to an athlete’s success.
Sitting behind the basketball team at a game can be exciting for a young person. A child sees the emotion and celebration of the team. For 12-year-old athlete Joanna Logsdom, sitting behind the Bellarmine Knights women’s basketball team provides a great opportunity.
“Being a ball girl is a lot of fun,” she said. “I got involved last year when my parents asked if I wanted to be a ball girl, I said, ‘Sure.’”
Women’s basketball players are leaving an impact on the future generation of young women athletes. For these young athletes, the term ‘ball girl’ makes a big impression.
“It’s a totally different experience being on the sidelines compared to being in the stands. The athletes motivate me to be the best I can,” Logsdom said.
Senior guard Hope Sivori said the girls help their team and bring something special. “Our ball girls help get us with water and towels when we come for a timeout or out of the game,” she said. “I enjoy them being a part of our team because I see myself in them. They think we’re famous and it’s nice that they’re able to have a relationship with us and they can ask us questions.”
Logsdom learned she could be a ball girl during a BU basketball camp. The camp focuses on teaching fundamentals of basketball the “Bellarmine Way.” Young athletes like Logsdom learn key fundamentals of being a better player, including defense, shooting, passing, teamwork and leadership.
The camp staff said they hope these young women grow in their training and not only pursue basketball but pursue sports in general.
Head coach Chancellor Dugan said she believes that bringing these young athletes on campus is important for their future careers.
“If you can bring anyone on a college campus and that's their first time on a campus, they tend to go to that school,” Dugan said. “They have good ties to it and feel good about it.”
Dugan said she wants the ball girls to have pride in sitting on the bench and being part of the game.
For senior Claire Knies, it’s all about sharing the love of the game and building a strong foundation for the younger generation. “I hope that we inspire them. Not only to play sports, but to be strong, independent women,” she said.
Logsdom said she takes her role seriously and wants this to be a part of her future. “I hope to one day be a part of this team and the Bellarmine community,” she said.
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