by Scott Metz

Newcastle High School sophomore Lilly Taliaferro is a multisport athlete, playing both basketball and softball for the Newcastle Racers. In basketball, Lilly plays the position of a 1, 2, or 3 guard spots, and in softball, Lilly plays the position of outfield. Many would consider Lilly a sports veteran, having taken up both basketball and softball at the young age of 5 years old.

Lilly is proud to represent her school and community as a student athlete. Lilly proclaimed, “It means a lot to play, because Newcastle was not known to have a good basketball program in past years, and me and my team are determined to turn it around, and prove people wrong; we want to make a name for Newcastle.”

In terms of what motivates Lilly, she stated, “My motivation comes from becoming better than I was the day before.”

In regards to a teacher that has stood out to Lilly during her academic career thus far, Lilly stated, “Mrs. West stands out the most, because she always let me talk to her, and she cared about all of her students, and loved them.”

As far as what it has taken Lilly to become successful in sports, Lilly accounted, “It has taken lots of sacrifice and determination, and the requirement to hold yourself to a standard, always.”

Besides playing basketball, and softball, Lilly is ambitious to join other activities at her high school. Lilly stated, “I am new to Newcastle, so, I have not yet joined any clubs yet, but I would like to be involved in the special education program, and I am looking to joining more clubs.”

“Outside of basketball, I enjoy spending time with friends and family. I like to try new things. I like to go to the lake. I would classify myself as a very understanding and caring friend. I love laughing and joking. I prefer to dress comfy. I watch films more than any television shows.”

After high school, Lilly plans on pursuing higher education. Lilly stated, “I want to go to college and study marketing, or study sports medicine.”