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Name: Gracie Dines
School: Homedale High School
Grade: Senior
Sport: Basketball
Position: Point Guard
How did you first get interested in basketball?
I have been playing basketball for as long as I can remember. My parents got me started in it when I was in kindergarten. Sports are a big part of my family and when I was old enough to start playing, my parents signed me up.
What’s your favorite sport to play?
I also play volleyball, it is my favorite sport because of the dynamic. It is one of those sports where you need everyone to do their job, you can’t just have a good hitter, you need someone to pass, to set and hit the ball. It’s a lot of teamwork and strategy to win the game and that's what I love about it.
What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from high school sports?
The most valuable lesson I have learned throughout high school sports is accountability, I learned that I need to hold myself accountable for my actions on and off the court. Being there for my teammates and giving them my 100% so they will give it right back. Especially coming from a small town where you know everyone, you learn how to be accountable for your actions and what you want your town to stand for.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I received was from my mom and that was to remember who you are. High school can influence you in many different ways. I always reminded myself about being an athlete, a leader and a follower of Jesus Christ. It made me the person I am today and has helped me to gain the trust of my teammates and helped me focus on what really matters. Remembering those things made me a better teammate and athlete all around.
What has been your favorite high school memory so far?
My favorite high school memory so far has been playing sports with all my best friends that I have met through the years of playing. Sports really have helped me grow relationships and be a more outgoing person. That is where my favorite memories come from because that is what I do most of the time.
What coaches or teachers have made the biggest impact on your athletic career?
My coach last year, Cam Long, made a big impact on my athletic career the most. He taught our team how to enjoy basketball and what a leader looks like. He always giving my teammates and I confidence in practice, but also made us learn what hard work and dedication looks like. I had never worked so hard in a sport before and had so much fun at the same time. He is truly like family to our team and I am so grateful to have had him as a coach.
Which teammates have you really connected with during high school?
I have really connected with all the senior teammates this year. We are just having so much fun this year and making it one we will always remember. We have connected so much since we have all grown up together and want to make this last year one to remember. Since we have played with each other for so long, competing with them is the best. We know how each other works and what is right for the team. We also push each other to be better players in practice every day and we have become so close to each other.
Is there anyone in your family who have helped you get to where you are today?
I would say my younger brother has pushed me to be a better athlete throughout the years. He was always my biggest competition and we would practice all the time to make each other better. I always wanted to be the better athlete and he made me the competitive person I am today. He motivates me to work hard in sports and to be a better person to set a good example for him.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
Something people might not know about me is that I love the outdoors, I like to hike and paddleboarding in the summer is my favorite activity. I also love Disneyland, it’s my family’s favorite place to go and it is our happy place, like most people.
What about this season are you looking forward to the most?
This season I am looking forward to having a fun year with my friends that I will be graduating with this year. I want it to be the best it can be to have a great memory of our senior year of basketball. This is the year we will remember and I just want it to be the best it can be for all of my teammates.
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