Deja Ross lives basketball
I started playing basketball at eight years old. I’ve always liked sports, but basketball seemed natural. My dad was my first coach. I went on to play for Neutaconkanut Recreation Center at the age of 11 with my team coming in second in the Providence Recreation League Championship. The next year I played for Zuccolo Recreation Center, winning a second place title and two city championships over the next three years. My skill level reached a point where I decided to try out for Amateur Athletic Union, a more competitive team that plays year round and travels. My team, Team Providence, came in second place at the local state tournament, earning us a place in the National Competition held in Florida. Basketball has been a great way for me to explore and meet new people.
From first grade through eighth, I attended Times2 Academy. Although I had many friends, no one shared the same passion for basketball and they did not have a team. Ever since I knew that basketball was my passion, I planned to go to a high school that had a basketball team and a coach who could help me improve my skills. I chose Lincoln School. I had previously met Christina Batastini, the head basketball coach for Lincoln, through numerous basketball camps. She encouraged me to become a better player and I liked her style of coaching. I think sports are important, because they teach self-confidence and commitment. My ambition is to attend a Division 1 college for basketball. Although my love for basketball grows, it is important that I remain studious. I would like to study science, because I would like to become a physical therapist for the National Basketball Association.
Deja Ross is a freshman at Lincoln School for girls in Providence. She is on their basketball team.
photo courtesy of Deja Ross
