Basketball player Caitlin Sheppard of Reagan always has appreciated the community support she received playing youth sports. By the time she reached high school, Sheppard co-founded an organization that gives back to the community.
Athletes for Change has served as a fundraising body for groups such as Flight of Honor, the Boys and Girls Clubs and the American Red Cross.
"I've always been involved in youth-group service organizations," said Sheppard, who is the co-president of Athletes for Change. "As athletes, we've been given so much already. We get a lot of help. So it's important that we give back to the community that has always supported us."
Sheppard, a 5-foot-8 senior forward, said she is confident this is the season the Raiders will take their game to a higher level.
"This team has the potential to do great things this season," Sheppard said. "We're ready to show everybody that we're coming to play."
Coach Eric Rader realizes that Sheppard's presence is crucial if the Raiders are to make their presence felt in the Central Piedmont 4-A race. "Our kids are really drawn to Caitlin," he said. "She's a solid shooter who has continued to mature as a player."
Reagan showed signs of improved play with a surprising opening-round win over Forsyth Country Day in last year's Mary Garber Tournament.
"That was a big step," Sheppard said. "We worked so hard to get to that point. Hopefully, we can keep taking bigger strides so we can win more games."
THREE QUESTIONS FOR SHEPPARD
Q: What is the best book you've read?
A: "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close" by Jonathan Safran Foer
Q: Where would you go on your dream vacation?
A: Hawaii
Q: What profession are you planning to pursue?
A: Optometrist
Craig T. Greenlee
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