Sports

MEET SMCHS BASKETBALL STANDOUT COLIN FERRIER

This four-year varsity co-captain says his faith has been a big part of his game

By JENELYN RUSSO     2/28/2016

After briefly playing soccer and baseball, but not finding much of a connection with either sport, Colin Ferrier turned to his dad when he was eight years old for ideas on a new sport to try.

“I actually asked my dad what sport I could play with my hands…and he said basketball,” says Ferrier. “So I went out and tried basketball, and I just loved it.”

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Taking his father’s suggestion proved to be a good move for Ferrier. Now a senior at Santa Margarita Catholic High School, Ferrier has turned his love for basketball into being named a 2015 2nd Team All-Trinity League player as well as a 2014 CIF Champion for the Eagles.

“The thing I love the most about basketball is probably the relationships that I’ve made and the team aspect,” says Ferrier. “Everybody has to be on the same page and play together to win.”

The 6’2” guard considers himself to be on the “smaller side” when it comes to this sport, but Ferrier has been up to the challenge.

“Playing with bigger guys, you have to learn how to change your game, how to finish,” says Ferrier.

The four-year varsity player and co-captain uses what he’s learned over his time at Santa Margarita to help lead his teammates and make sure they are mentally ready each time they step onto the court. Varsity boys basketball head coach at Santa Margarita, Jeff Reinert, admits Ferrier’s contributions will be missed.

“Colin has been the rock in our program for four years,” says Reinert. “He is a tremendous basketball player, but his leadership and his ability to ‘grind’ through the season and the academic school year shows me he is a winner not only on the court, but in life.”

Playing in his final season for the Eagles has been bittersweet for Ferrier, and he acknowledges it will be tough to say goodbye to one of the loudest and most supportive student sections in Orange County.

“The thing I’m going to miss the most about playing basketball at SM is probably the Eagle’s Nest,” says the San Clemente resident. “Playing for them is so amazing. Their energy and their enthusiasm…it’s incredible.”

Off the court, the 18-year old has found a joy in serving others by volunteering his time with Special Olympics Southern California. An effort he began his sophomore year, Ferrier has worked with track and field participants, as well as refereed basketball games for the local athletes.

Ferrier is hopeful he will be able to continue his basketball career in college and is looking to study business. He leans most on his family for inspiration and support, as well as his faith.

“My faith really helps me with basketball,” says Ferrier, “just knowing that I can let everything go and rely on God to guide me to play the best I can.”