From a cheerleader to an all-star basketball player, Markeshia Grant, 20, fell in love with the sport after making her first shot at a neighbor's house about ten years ago.
Grant has always been an active girl, even calling herself a bit of a tomboy, winning two state championships back to back in high school. She had hoped to be a major basketball player and a role model for kids.
Grant came from Tampa to play for CFCC's basketball team because it was "a good opportunity, love the school and staff and it's close to home."
Last year, Grant assisted her team, the CFCC Lady Patriots, all the way to the state tournament. Ranking them as 4th in the state and 19th in the nation, she earned respect from her teammates and coach.
"She's a good athlete, smart, reliable, a very positive person, a leader, shows good leadership and an all-star too," said Catavia Jones, 18, veterinary science major and teammate.
According to Grant, the qualities to be a Lady Patriot are leadership, patience, positive attitudes, unselfish and commitment. The same qualities she said her favorite basketball player, Kobe Bryant, has.
Most of those qualities were taught at the AAUW (American Association of University Women) and CFCC's Women's Basketball Team's Student Affiliation Day which was held on Saturday, Oct. 17, 9 a.m. to noon in the Webber Center.
"They (Lady Patriots) learned a lot about leadership skills," said Sheryl Rice, head coach of the Lady Patriots. "It was a very nice social event. Our players were excited."
AAUW has been the nation's leading voice promoting education and equity for women and girls since 1881 and according to some of the Lady Patriot players, they were proud and honored to be a part of it.
"Very positive, she motivates the team," said Caprice Stephens, 18, liberal arts major and teammate, listing Grant's qualities. "She is a good captain and has patience. She's goofy, outgoing, speaks her mind, fun to be around, and a good friend too."
Other requirements are to have a 2.0 grade point average and to take at least 15 credit hours per semester. It's hard to prioritize/manage school, practice, and a social life according to Grant.
Grant practices from Monday through Saturday starting at 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and then from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. except on Mondays and Tuesdays.
"We (grant and her teammates) practice, have to go to school, and have study hall," said Grant. "We don't really have weekends. So we don't really have a social life."
Grant's hopes for the team this year are to accomplish great things; win the Mid-Florida Conference game.
"I'm ready for every game," said Grant.
When asked what she would like to be remembered for at CFCC, Grant said, "for being the best person to ever play at CFCC."
"She's a very good asset," said Stephens. "I'm gonna miss her when she leaves. What are we gonna do?"
Grant said after CFCC she plans to be in division one and her future is bright, filled with endless opportunities.
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