Senior Series - Carmen Courtad

Being a freshman at a new school was absolutely terrifying. Not knowing if I would make friends or enjoy my year was scary; however, the one thing I knew I would always have was basketball. Basketball helped me find my home at Hawken, and I am forever grateful.  Throughout my four years as a player, I have developed lifelong friendships and learned how to be a better individual on and off the court. 

My freshman year, I came up with a few big goals I wanted to achieve before graduating: 

1. Make strong connections with my teammates;

2. Be a leader; and

3. Win a lot, because who doesn't love to win?!

In my freshman year alone, I achieved this and so much more. I made unbelievable friendships and bonds with teammates, something I never thought could happen in just one season. Under the leadership of Coach Murray, Coach Jim and Coach D, the team had the opportunity to travel to Orlando, Florida to participate in a tournament. This was one of the highlights of my time at Hawken. We went to Universal Studios, out to dinner, and competed against high-talent teams. I bonded with upperclassmen during this trip, and I am forever grateful for this experience. 

During my sophomore season, our team was ready to put the work in. Coming off of a winning season and having four of our five starters back, we were in a good place competitively. I am beyond happy with the way our team played and started to feel a better connection on and off the court with the upperclassmen. This allowed me to learn extremely valuable life lessons. We had competitive training practices which allowed the team to improve and myself as a player to improve. Coach Murray always emphasized to the team that it was important to incorporate community service into our program.  In order to serve the community, in addition to playing hard on the court, I spearheaded the fundraiser "Hoops for Hope." We raised $4,000 for UH Rainbow and Children's Hospital. Working as a group on this fundraiser to help an outside cause showed myself, the team, and our community that there was more than just winning to the sport and that high school sports can have an impact that goes well beyond the competitive aspects of the game.

Unfortunately, I was unable to play for half of my junior season due to an ACL injury. Although this time was emotionally hard for me, my teammates were there for me and supportive every step of the way. I had a great time watching my teammates, but I was also eager to get back on the court. During my recovery, I trained hard with the strength and conditioning coaches: Coach Lew and Coach Devin. I built strong relationships with them as they inspired me to always push myself. When I returned, I was happier than ever. Nothing felt better than getting back on the court, playing the sport I love, and having my teammates support me throughout the journey. I was beyond proud of the efforts and determination my team had not only for the game, but also for a cause. We continued the "Hoops for Hope" fundraiser and raised $6,000 in 2020-2021 in addition to finishing the season as co-champions of the CVC. I also had the opportunity to play with my sister, Cami Courtad,  since she played on the Varsity team as a freshman. This was very special to me.

My senior season had finally come. I couldn't believe that it was all going to come to an end. A lot is expected out of a four-year varsity player, including being a leader for my teammates. As a senior, I was honored to be voted a captain of my team.  For the 2022-23 season, we had a switch in our coaching staff. A new female head coach had been hired - Coach Brittney Matuschek. She brought three other coaches with her: Coach Tom Hicks, Coach Stacie Shaw, and Coach Tahtyana McKenzie.The new coaching staff has worked hard to build up the program and introduce a new mindset for the team.  They also have created many team bonding experiences which is important.Our season has been off to a great start. 

Coach Britt dedicates time during practice to what she calls "Mindful Monday." We watch podcasts, participate in team bonding events, and learn about goal-setting. This is an opportunity for everyone to develop self-growth as athletes and members of the community. The coaches also made it possible for our team to play on the CAVS arena which is an experience I will never forget!  We also got a win! Looking back on my experience as an athlete at Hawken, I learned more about life than I did about basketball. I honestly don't remember a lot of the details about games that we played or even the scores, but instead the moments I had with my teammates and coaches. Basketball was something bigger than a game for me. It was a place where I felt comfortable, supported, and happy. I made friendships and memories that I will forever remember. I learned the importance of teamwork, discipline, respect, leadership, and much more. 

Being a student-athlete is challenging. Balancing schoolwork and basketball was tricky; however, it forced me to manage my time better. There were days when myself and my team were exhausted, stressed, or didn't have the energy to practice, but we pushed through those moments together. All in all, I am grateful for the opportunity I had to play basketball at Hawken. I will never forget the memories and lessons I have learned during my time here. Go Hawks!