Athlete of the Week: Sarah Hoover combines fire and kindness as Lark leader

By Kristin Troyer – Co-Editor-in-Chief

Do kind people belong on the basketball court? Can the fire of competition burn inside a future elementary school teacher? Sophomore Hesston basketball player Sarah Hoover seems to think so. 

It’s Hoover’s combination of kindness and competitiveness that has thrust her into a leading role on the Larks basketball team in games and in practice.

“It’s normal for Sarah to stay longer after practice and shoot or run extra,” teammate Kelsey Unruh said. “She works hard and I think that shows on the court.”

Hoover plays to “leave everything on the court,” as she puts it, no matter what. She wants to find the best way for her and her teammates to reach their goal: to win.

Working hard is only part of what makes Hoover such a special part of not just the basketball team, but the campus community as well.

“Relationships with teammates, her mod and others are important to her and she puts a lot of energy into growing those relationships,” coach Dan Harrison said. “She is truly a kind person who is aghast if she offends someone by her words or attitude.”

Hoover’s kind and loving demeanor has earned her many friendships, and has helped her grow in her relationship with God, something she says she holds very high on her priority list. This has helped lead her to her future career.

“Next year, I plan to attend Sterling College where I will play basketball and finish my degree in elementary education,” Hoover said. “Then I plan to teach in underprivileged school’s following college graduation.”

The Larks are currently in the middle of region play, and Sarah has high hopes for the rest of the season. One of her goals is to win at least four more region games. A big task, but one that’s matched by a bigger heart.