Every athlete has a game-day mindset, and for Haskell’s Natalee Deckard, it starts with focus and faith. “My mindset when I step on the court is to stay positive, focused, confident, and ready for anything,” Deckard said. “I try to stay focused on my part and do my job. As a senior, I also know I need to be a leader and stay positive for my teammates and lift them up as well.”
That leadership role is one she embraces, even as she continues to chase personal milestones. “My personal goals this season are to do what my coach and team need from me,” she said. “I want to be a good leader, share the spotlight and have trust in my teammates. I would also like to have a good scoring season.”
Her scoring has been steady so far. The 5’3” senior averages 9 points per game, shoots 30% from three-point range, and contributes 6 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals per contest. Playing both point guard and shooting guard, she looks for ways to create opportunities. “What I look for when reading a defense is a gap and scattered defenders,” Deckard explained. “I know what I’m capable of and what scoring positions I can get myself into.”
The team itself has taken big steps forward. “The biggest improvement I’ve seen from the team so far is our positivity,” she said. “It’s been a very positive environment to be in. We are all lifting each other up and not letting us be down or in our heads. We aren’t letting our past seasons bring us down.”
Deckard and her teammates share one clear goal. “Our main goal is to win and be better than we have been in previous years,” she said. “We’re always looking to get better in any way… taking the extra shots in the gym, having longer practices and putting in new plays and better drills.”
When her high school days come to an end, Deckard wants to be remembered for her example. “The legacy I want to leave at Haskell is I was a great leader, had a positive impact on the people around me and I was bold in my faith in Jesus.”
And after basketball, her dreams will continue. “My plans after high school is to go to college and get my associate’s degree in veterinary technology.”
