After trying several different sports offered by her elementary school, Chloe Marick found a real connection with basketball. Now a freshman at Cornelia Connelly High School, Marick has brought her skills to the Koalas’ varsity squad and is ready to make an impact.
The 15-year-old plays either guard or forward for the team, and loves the fast-paced aspect of the game. As a newcomer to high school basketball, Marick has enjoyed facing the unfamiliar competition.
“New teams are great because they motivate you,” says Marick. “I think it’s important to face new competition as you mature when you’re playing your sport. Never underestimate your competition.”
Marick’s goal for this past season, along with her teammates, was to earn a spot in the CIF-SS playoffs. Connelly got close to that by making an appearance in the Division 5A wild card round, but came up short to Saddleback High School of Santa Ana. Despite their finish, Marick has enjoyed each win she has shared with her team with a full appreciation of all the behind-the-scenes work it took to get them to that point.
“Whenever we win, it’s very important,” says Marick. “It shows that our hard work is paying off and that our coaches’ time has made us better players so that we can beat our competition. I think that’s my favorite moment.”
Connelly head basketball coach Megan Marrujo has seen significant improvement in Marick’s game over the past year and is excited to see how she will continue to contribute to the squad moving forward.
“Chloe brought a lot of skills and personality to our basketball team this season,” says Marrujo. “She worked hard all season long to improve her game, both on the offensive and defensive side of the court. Her hard work and dedication showed by being our second highest leading scorer all season long. Chloe is a great basketball player, and I can’t wait to watch her continue to grow over the next three years.”
Marick also plays tennis for the Koalas, a sport that helps her improve her footwork for when she returns to the basketball court. She enjoys writing and painting and has an interest in studying either psychology or neurology in college. Having battled a number of injuries over her playing career, Marick leans on her faith to keep her healthy as she competes.
“When I play…God helps guide me on the court and protects me when I need it,” says Marick.
The Brea resident is grateful for the example her parents have set and for their belief in her as she plays the sport she loves.
“My parents are two of my role models because they have had faith that I can play this sport since I was in fifth grade,” says Marick. “They’ve driven me to countless practices, games and tournaments, and they supply me with everything I need to play this sport.”