Athlete Spotlight: Braden Reilly

Junior Braden Reilly is a kind person and an excellent student. To most of those who have met Braden, he is also very quiet. However, on the lacrosse field, he is a warrior: a fierce, aggressive player who has no problem checking his opponents to help his team win. 

Braden is one of the school’s 16 three-sport athletes. He plays basketball and soccer, as well as lacrosse. He still manages to find time to focus on his studies in honors-level classes.

“It's hard balancing school work with sports,” he said, while talking about what it’s like to be a three-sport athlete. Braden started lacrosse for the same reason most kids in seventh grade start playing a sport: his friends were playing. However, he soon began to love it. He loves how many skills are required and how it is a healthy outlet for his frustrations. 

“Most players who play attack are usually small and fast. I'm not very small, so I use my size to my advantage and try to ‘bully’ people,” Braden said, explaining his strategy in the game. 

Braden's teammates often admire him for his dedication and loyalty. “He's always got your back if someone wants to fight you” during a game, junior Robby Williamson said.

He is also very respectful of his coach and works hard during practice. His teammates say he never complains while completing any task that is ordered by his coach. “He's an outstanding player,” Coach Hanson said. “He takes command of the field. He is not afraid to put himself out there and take a shot.”