What were some of your main reasons for choosing Clarion?
Averi– One of the main reasons I chose Clarion was the atmosphere. On and off the court. Everyone and everything there was so welcoming. As soon as I stepped foot on campus, I felt at home.
KB– Easily the first reason being the coaches. They made me feel like me coming to that school would be for more than basketball. Yes, I’m going to college to play, but I’m also going to college to meet new people, make new friends, and create new relationships.
What other colleges were you considering? Why did Clarion stand out amongst them?
Averi– The one other college I was strongly considering was IUP. The main difference between the two was education. I felt that Clarion will provide me with more and better opportunities than IUP would have.
KB– I was considering fairmont state and wheeling. At the end of the day, like I said, the coaches really sold it for me. The program, the education, and atmosphere. All of it sold me.
What do you look forward to being involved in at Clarion, apart from basketball?
Averi– Outside of basketball I look forward to being involved in the small community. All around the campus are little mom and pop restaurants that we can go to.
KB-Honestly I’m so excited to be apart of a family. I’m apart of a family right now at norwin and I’m excited to expand that.
What advice would you give to other athletes going through the college search process?
Averi– I would say to put in an effort to get noticed. Putting yourself out there makes yourself more marketable. Emailing coaches, posting on twitter, and going to elite camps are all things you can control during your recruiting process.
KB– Don’t dedicate your life to basketball. People think drowning yourself in basketball will somehow make you a better player. You have to find a happy medium. Yes, its not easy. You have to work hard. In the long run you still want to make memories outside of basketball. You still want to find yourself when you don’t have basketball.
Who am I without basketball?
Also, it is very important to advocate for yourself. Know your worth as a player. Playing collegiantly at any level is challenging and not an easy path. Don’t get overwhelmed.
Most importantly, don’t let college push you into committing. Think about your decision long and hard. It isn’t an easy one, but eventually you’ll know.
