Athlete Spotlight: basketball player Margaret McCloud

Junior center Margaret McCloud was on the Summit League champion Coyote women’s basketball team last season, and her team has opened practice.

Alanna Schmeichel: Is basketball your favorite sport?

Margaret McCloud: Yes, definitely. I grew up around sports, and I’ve always liked being a competitor. I love the competition of the fast-paced game and competition of momentum. I just love both aspects because it brings out the adrenalin out in me.

A.S.: What are your individual goals for the season?

M.M.: My individual goals are to play more confidently and be more aggressive around the basket as a post player. I want to contribute more in statistics like rebounding, assists and be more of a scoring threat.

A.S.: What are the team goals?

M.M.: Obviously we want to win the conference. But last year we were pretty successful making it to the first round of the NCCA tournament. For our upcoming season, our team goal is to make it that far or a step farther. We are also working on playing more aggressively, too.

A.S.: What is your role on the team since you are considered an upperclassman?

M.M.: My role is to be a leader, to motivate the younger players and lead by example. I try to do my best and do everything right. I try to be enthusiastic and always communicating. I hope to pass these traits off to the younger players.

A.S.: How do you have an impact on your teammates?

M.M.: I have a really good work ethic and a really good attitude. I just try to lead by example. I’ve been told by the younger players they appreciate my help and they like my communication.

A.S.: How do you balance being on the honor roll and playing on the basketball team?

M.M.: We actually take time out of our road trips to focus on school. Plus, our coaches do a really great job of giving us time outside of practice and on the road. They even say school comes first. The university also does a really great job of giving the athletes extra help with tutoring and required hours in the library. Because of them, it makes it easier to balance school and basketball. Basketball is like a full-time job and it can get pretty busy.

A.S.: What is your intended major?

M.M.: I am double majoring in criminal justice and psychology. I hope to go into a profession that works with kids and combines both of my majors.

A.S.: How were you drawn into this major?

M.M.: I grew up with my friends putting me into situations where I was put into a role to help them. At 16 I felt like I was being drawn to help people in that way. I had to deal with some tough situations, and I just fell in love with that process.

(Photo: Junior center Margaret McCloud heads to the basket for a layup in the USD vs. Western Illinois Summit League Tournament game March 9 in the Sioux Falls Arena. In the 2013-14 season, McCloud led the Summit League in field goal percentage 59.9 percent. File photo / The Volante)