Courtney Bennett was all smiles Monday afternoon as I took her head shot for our upcoming girls basketball tab.
The Kouts senior had completed her grueling cross country campaign about 48 hours ago, but there she was ready for her next venture.
At practice for the Fillies basketball team, coach Ron Kobza took a moment to recognize Bennett for her appearance at Saturday's cross country state finals. Hoops teammates cheered Bennett, then the squad broke huddle and began work on their hardcourt campaign.
I just marvel at how these athletes just move to the next challenge. I would have enjoyed a week -- or longer -- break between prep athletic endeavors. I didn't have to worry about the lack of rest, since I played only one sport, baseball. I just didn't feel I was too skilled in any other sport. I wonder if I had enough skill even to play baseball. People who have seen me play adult recreational softball might agree.
It's been funny. As I have ventured to local gymnasiums these past few days taking girls basketball mugs, I keep thinking about the other sports each athlete has played. At Portage, I just kept seeing Indians soccer players: goalie Tori Bliss, midfielders Tara Ellis and Nicki Monahan, plus sweeper Carly Bermes. It probably helped that these girls were in succession. I even joked with them that I thought I was at a soccer practice.
Bliss' fall stood out the most for me. She hadn't stepped foot on a varsity pitch before her junior season, but she helped the Indians win their sectional. She played the most influential position on the field and -- at times -- appeared to ace her crash course on goal keeping. In an interview, she talked about using past athletic experience to speed up her learning curve.
"I know basketball like the back of my hand," Bliss said.
That became apparent in my trip to the gym. After they finished working with me it was back to basketball drills, and it appeared to be a seamless transition for Bliss and the others.
This type of wandering thought just didn't take place during the photo sessions.
As I covered my share of Chesterton boys soccer matches this season, I kept thinking about neighboring golf courses. Ryan Grassel, a three-time participant in the IHSAA boys state golf finals, played defense this fall on the pitch. He showed that he is equally adept with his feet and hands. Chesterton's defense was pretty solid in its run to the regional, and he was a solid fixture in that success.
Multi-sport play isn't for everyone. I understand some want to just focus on one skill, whether it's to pursue college dreams or spend as much time with the sport they truly love.
I also understand some athletes pick up another sport in their senior season just for fun.
I just marvel how some can play at a high level in more than one sport. The split-time issues that are involved and the requisite quick-recovery needs show true dedication.
This column solely represents the writer's opinion. Reach him at jim.hunsley@nwi.com.
