By Derrick Smith

Whether an athlete plays a team sport or an individual one, the work that is put in is very similar. There is a lot of hard work and dedication involved in becoming a successful athlete. Summer Fergeson says that there is a lot required to be successful but she knows that it works because she has seen her game improve. 

“It has taken many hours in the gym outside of practice and games,” she said. “I work on shooting, dribbling, and moving to the basket or to create space. Also, coach Rowell has made me a stronger player and person, which has made me succeed more in my sports.”

Summer, who is a senior at Bridge Creek high school, plays both basketball and softball. She plays shooting guard on hardwood and on the softball diamond she plays pitcher and second base.

While she has put in a lot of hard work over her career, Summer says that there are two people that have been key parts of her success.

“My two biggest role models are my parents,” she said. “They do everything they can to make me succeed at whatever I do. They always support me no matter what. They have made me the person and player I am today.”

Seeing hard work pay off is a big accomplishment for any athlete, no matter what level of sports they compete. Fergeson is no different and she says that helping the Lady Bobcat basketball team make history is one of her favorite moments. 

“I have had some great moments while playing sports,” she said. “But I would have to say that last year would have to be my favorite. Our team went 19-7, but we started the year off 8-0 before losing to Blanchard in the championship game in the Noble tournament. We finished the season in the area consolation championship game, which for our school was the furthest a Bridge Creek girls basketball team has ever gone, so that was a very special moment for us.”

Along with playing sports, Summer also serves as secretary of the National Honor Society and the Student Council. She also has her plan ready once she graduates from high school “I have committed to Southwestern Christian University to play basketball. While there, I will also be working on a business degree.”