Welch High School senior and multi-sport athlete Reagan Etzel spoke openly about her involvement in sports and when it finally started becoming important to her. 

“It wasn’t until high school that I fell in love with the games I play,” Etzel said. “I had always played and participated in them, but it wasn’t until my freshman year that it clicked. I struggled playing throughout middle school because I didn’t fully understand the sports and my abilities.”

“I love playing them now because of how much they’ve helped me,” Etzel added. “They are a way to get my mind off things as well as a way to be active. I love being part of a team and being able to work with others. Even if I am struggling, my teams can help pick me back up.” 

Etzel said that as her last season on the basketball court is just starting, things are looking hopeful for the Lady Wildcats. 

“We have a good blend of experience with our upperclassmen and our incoming freshmen,” she said. “We will be replacing some starters so there will be a learning curve to start the season. While we’ve lost some height, we’ve gained speed and are looking to utilize that in our game plan. Our first game was a huge learning game for us. Even though we lost, we were able to see how all of us worked together for the first time in a real game, and it helped get the nerves out.” 

As a senior, Etzel said she was seeing the effects of her leadership on the court, and said she realized that she can help her teammates out with more than just her athleticism. 

“I want to be loyal, and someone my teammates can rely on,” she said. “I also want to lead by how I interact with others during competition. I hopefully display this by my actions, including helping the competition up if they fall. When I’m off the court, I try to show good character by helping those who need it, and how I talk to others.” 

After high school, Etzel said she wants to gain an associates degree and then pursue a career in physical therapy.