GAME ON: The Player – Zach Wells

GAME ON: The Player – Zach Wells

Q & A with Zach Wells, Westerly High School Basketball

What has been the biggest challenge being a high school athlete?

My biggest challenge being a high school athlete is the constant balancing act between academics and athletics. With a workload consisting of high-level courses and the few hours of practice after school, I face a battle each day with completing both.

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Who is your biggest motivator?

My biggest motivator is my trainer, Chris Herren. He is an inspiration to me as an athlete and as a person. Without his help, I would not be where I am today as an athlete moving onto the college level with such confidence.

Who is your biggest rival?

My biggest rival is Stonington High School. We only face them once a year, usually in our local Christmas tournament. So, it’s a huge game against a neighboring town, with a rivalry that dates back at least 100 years.

What are you working to improve your game?

Growing up as a center, I was never given the chance to develop my ball-handling skills. Working with Chris Herren on a daily basis, I focus on improving my perimeter skill set, in order to move from a center to power forward position on the college level.

What is your greatest memory on the court?

My greatest memory on the court was Senior Night during my freshman year, where Keith "Shredda" Kennedy, played his only varsity basketball game. The other memory would have to be my own Senior Night against Chariho, playing alongside my friends who I grew up with throughout the years.

How are you able to balance your schoolwork with practices, games, and training?

I attempt each day to balance schoolwork with practices and games. This season, in particular, has taken a toll on my body, mentally and physically. In the end, I keep my mindset on the state championship and push through the stress associated with school/sports.

Where do you see yourself going from here, do you plan to pursue this sport in college?

After graduating, I will be attending the United States Coast Guard Academy, where I will be playing basketball. The daily hustle to balance academics and athletics has rewarded me with the opportunity to join the military and attend the USCGA.