Jaida is a senior, multi-sport athlete at Plant City High School. She played basketball this year and currently plays tennis. She currently has a 6.7558 GPA, ranking her 11th in a class of 583.
How long have you been playing basketball?
I have played Basketball since I was seven years old. I originally started playing through the YMCA coed basketball league because I wanted to try something new. I was also doing gymnastics at the time, but I wanted to try a team sport. I was the only girl in the league and quickly fell in love with the game! From then I have played every year, spending hours and hours practicing, joining AAU teams, traveling to tournaments, attending countless camps, and playing all 3 years of middle school for my team, and all 4 years in high school on varsity.
How long have you been playing tennis?
I have been playing tennis for about 3 years! I started playing when a group of my friends and I went to some courts in Walden Lake and just played around. Mr Rhett Raulerson started leading lessons with us and it was always so much fun! This sparked my love for tennis and I began to play for my school.
Did you play any other sports while growing up?
I have played a variety of sports! Growing up I did gymnastics as well as dance. I have also played flag football and softball. As I began to grow older I started playing tennis and decided that tennis and basketball were my sports!
Who’s your favorite coach of all time and why?
My favorite coach that I’ve ever had was Coach Byron, from a young age he coached me in the YMCA league and then onto a travel AAU team. He was an incredible coach that truly got to know his athletes and cared deeply about their development on and off the court. I got to play alongside his daughter as well and we began a friendship that I still cherish to this day. I will never forget the lasting impact he had on my life and my Basketball journey.
Do you have any plans to play sports in college? If so, which ones?
I do not plan on playing any sports for college, but I would really enjoy and plan to join an intramural or club-like team to stay active and meet new people. As far as which sports I will play, I definitely see myself doing tennis and possibly reaching out and trying something new!
Who’s your favorite athlete of all time?
My favorite athlete of all time would be Tim Tebow. In the realm of sports, there are few figures as captivating and inspiring as Tim Tebow. For me, he stands not just as an athlete but as a beacon of passion, work ethic, and unwavering faith. His remarkable journey on and off the field has left an indelible mark on countless individuals, myself included. Tebow’s passion for the game of football is palpable in every play, every moment on the field. He approaches each game with an intensity and fervor that is unmatched, giving his all in pursuit of victory. His unyielding determination and drive serve as a reminder that success is not merely a product of talent, but of tireless effort and dedication. However, what truly resonates with me is Tebow’s unwavering faith and his unabashed love for Jesus Christ. In a world where athletes often shy away from expressing their beliefs, Tebow boldly proclaims his Christian faith, both on and off the field. His humility, compassion, and grace under pressure serve as a testament to the strength of his convictions and the depth of his relationship with God.
Do you have any pre-game rituals that you do to get ready for a game?
I don’t have too much of a complex ritual, but I do tend to put my earbuds in and listen to uplifting music. I also before every basketball game say a prayer during the national anthem, this is a huge part of my ritual, as I pray for protection and motivation throughout my game!
What’s one sport you’ve never really played that you wish you would have attempted to play more?
When I reflect on my childhood, I often wish I had pursued soccer. In elementary school, playing it during PE and with friends brought immense joy. Looking back, I can see myself truly enjoying the sport. There was so much thrill of chasing the ball, making passes, and scoring goals. While I played for fun, I now realize I had the potential to excel if I had committed myself. Though I regret not seizing the opportunity, I’m inspired to reignite my love for soccer and perhaps relive those cherished moments on the field.
If you’re not playing sports, what are you doing in your free time?
In my free time I enjoy spending time with friends and family, hanging out outside, going to church, and anything to do with being on the water! If I ever have a day with nothing to do, you can almost guarantee to find me in Anna Maria.
Before a game or match, what are your go-to hype songs?
Unlike most people, I don’t listen to rap music, so my “hype” music is a little different. As far as one specific song goes, before every basketball game I would listen to “Life’s Too Short” by Two Friends and FITZ. The message of the lyrics and upbeat sound make it a great hype song. It reminded me before every game that life is short and to give it my all.