Last Friday afternoon the Lyon College women’s basketball team lost its second round game in the NAIA Division I Basketball Championships, ending their season. Thus, ending the playing career of one of my all-time favorite high school athletes from the tri-lakes.
I have had the pleasure of covering a lot of great folks in my time doing this job. I have got to see a number of future NCAA Division One athletes in a number of sports. And while I appreciate that ability and love that I get a front row seat to see and talk to them, that is not what always catches my eye. I love seeing that athlete that may not have been born with elite, god-given talent, but works, like crazy to achieve success. I really marvel at the player that goes all-out everyday, whether it be a game, a practice, or a pickup game with friends. I totally appreciate that student that cares more about their teammates, and their success than that of their own. These things describe Blue Eye alum Tressa Linson.
At just a little over five feet, Linson was a varsity player at Blue Eye from the get go. And, from the get-go, it was full throttle all the time. I cant say I have ever seen a player work harder or give more effort over an entire high school career. And, it was solid intensity all the time, even before the game would start. Heck, I am not sure I have seen anyone get through the introduction line quicker than Linson. And, from day one, she made everyone, on the court, around her better.
Talk to people that know her, and she may have been even better off the court. Not once, have I heard a single bad thing said about her. She cares for those around her,just like she does her teammates on the floor. She does the work in the classroom and is an NAIA Scholar Athlete. She was also a Champion of Character, and a representative at the NAIA Convention. While at Blue Eye she was the South Central MO FCA Female Athlete of the Year.
She is set to graduate in May and Congrats are in order, as she is set to be married this summer.
There have been players that have put up more impressive numbers. And, there will be better players come along, I have no doubt. But not sure there will ever be another quite like her.
Thanks Tressa and best of luck. ( We short people have to stick together.)
