Kayla Salazar '16 Recruiting Profile

My name is Kayla Salazar, I attend Espanola Valley High school. I'm currently a junior playing varsity as a starting shooting guard. For anyone who has ever been passionate about being the best, it is painful to come face to face with the best. I first stepped onto the court as a second grader in an elementary school, less than one hundred students, my dream was to continue playing basketball and improve on my skills. I was determined to be the best and compete at the highest level as possible.  I joined an AAU team, named Northern New Mexico Elite where I developed my shooting, and defensive skills. Then joined another AAU team in the summer of 2010, named northern NM flight. I traveled to many cities, and states playing against much greater competition. As a member of Flight I was a part of three National Championships. This achievement opened my eyes to see what i could accomplish with hard work and dedication.

I maintain a great relationship with my teammates, and coaches as they have encouraged me throughout my years to work harder. My greatest strengths on the court is my defense and assists. I motivate and encourage my team, on and off the court. Being a varsity basketball player has given me an opportunity to reflect my accomplishments back to my community. Being a role model motivates me, not only to become a better player, but a better person.

 I strive for success and the only way I feel I can achieve that is to go the extra mile, even if it's spending extra time in the gym after practice or on the weekends. The other part of my dedication is improving on my academics.  My goal is to achieve a Bachelor's Degree in Health Science with a major in Ultrasound.  Accomplishing these goals will allow me an opportunity to be part of a diverse workforce in my community.

I'm different from most candidates because of my determination, hard work, and because I'm determined to succeed.  I understand that perfection is impossible, but that does not stop me from continuous effort.  I will demonstrate to improve my skills in my Senior year and hope to achieve and be awarded my full time dream of playing college ball.