By Ken Hansard

Carly Dameron, a center for Eisenhower, is understandably excited for her senior season. The Tigers finished last season with a 14-7 record. Their season ended at sub-state with a gut-wrenching three-point loss to conference rival Salina Central on a buzzer three-pointer. The Tigers are looking to put that heartache behind them, and Dameron and her teammates plan to lean heavily on the strength of team and unity. “We are really prioritizing team bonding throughout the program to create more of a family.”

Dameron feels that the family atmosphere the Tigers have developed should help to create a greater sense of unity and trust. “I might not always have a great game on the offensive end, but…. I just have to be aware of who is on the court with me and trust my teammates as they would trust me.”

Carly embraces her role as a leader: “Some of the girls may have their doubts about an upcoming game. I want them to understand that every game can have any outcome as long as we control our attitude and effort.”

Carly is a three-sport athlete in volleyball, basketball and track. During her sophomore season, she was named second team All-League (AVCTL Div. II) and was an All-State Honorable Mention nominee. She was named first team All-League and third team All State during her junior season. Dameron is nearly as accomplished in volleyball, earning All-League Mentions during both her junior and senior seasons. 

Dameron has learned life lessons from participation in athletics, but especially on the hardwood. “Basketball has a way of showing your true colors through resilience and attitude. It has showed me that playing past pure exhaustion is what makes you a better player.”

Dameron plans to play basketball in college and is currently considering Hutch Juco and Evangel University. She would like to study athletic training and physical therapy.