|
Name: Gage Stoddard
School: Grace High School
Grade: Junior
Sport: Basketball
Position: Point Guard/Shooting Guard
How did you first get interested in your sport?
When I was in kindergarten my parents took me to Logan, Utah, to play in a first-grade basketball recreation league. Ever since then, I have loved the game of basketball and have traveled to a variety of locations to play basketball at a competitive level.
If you play other sports, which is your favorite and why?
My favorite sport to play other than basketball is football. I started playing tackle football in fourth grade and have always enjoyed playing it. I've been the starting quarterback and linebacker on my high school team since I was a sophomore. This last season, I was also the offensive player of the year for our team and named as a second-team all-conference quarterback and linebacker.
What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from high school sports?
The most valuable lesson I have learned from high school sports is to control what I can control. I have always been taught how hard I work and the attitude I have are the two main things I can control, but I can’t control whether my shots go in every night or what my teammates do. I have learned from sports that hard work and attitude go a long way in my success as an athlete and as a person.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I've ever received is to stay humble and hungry. My Grandpa Stoddard told me that a few times over the last couple years of playing basketball. His advice has always been something I remember and listen to. His advice reminds me to always be thankful for the opportunities I have and to push to be a better athlete and person.
What has been your favorite high school memory so far?
My favorite high school memory so far was our basketball game last year in Soda Springs. I was a sophomore starting in varsity and we were down by one point with 1.4 seconds left in the game. I was fouled on a game-winning shot, which then put me one the line to shoot two free throws. I made both of them and we won the game by one point! They have always been our biggest rivals and one size bigger than us so it was a big win for us in their gym.
What coaches or teachers have made the biggest impact on your athletic career?
As I have grown up, I have had the opportunity to work with multiple coaches that have each helped me and influenced me in different ways. My coaches at Cache Valley Elite, Jeff Brimhall and Brok Nelson, have really helped build my confidence and put me in situations to play against really good competition and do well. Former college players Skylar Halford of BYU and Jalen Moore of Utah State have helped me train at a higher level than I could have on my own and taught me what it means to push myself. Most recently, Tim Davis of Utah Prospects has really helped me to improve my whole game and work on the little things to make me better. He has been a very positive influence on me. I know that I can call any of these coaches at any time for help and encouragement.
Which teammates have you really connected with during high school?
I have been playing up a grade with this year’s senior class since I can remember, so I have always had a really good connection on the court with them.
Is there anyone in your family who have helped you get to where you are today?
My parents have always played a major role in where I am today. They are continuously supporting me in every aspect of my life. I owe my dad a ton for the amount of time and effort he has put into helping me . He has always been super supportive no matter what and has played a huge part in my life. I am very lucky and thankful to have the supportive parents that I do.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
Something that I think most people don’t know about me is that I can play the piano. I have always enjoyed learning how to play a variety of songs and listen daily to others playing the piano. I also really enjoy cooking and have always loved to cook since I was little.
What about this season are you looking forward to the most?
One thing that I am looking forward to most this season is to play in the state tournament with my teammates. We have always wanted to make it to the state tournament and have a chance to win a championship. I played in the state tournament a little as a freshman, but missed the tournament last year as a sophomore. I am looking forward to playing a big part in the state tournament this year.
|