Game changer: Kendall Locke's impact on Bethel women's basketball
Kendall Locke's passion, leadership, and dedication are shaping the future of the women's basketball team at Bethel College.
The Bethel College women's basketball team has had an outstanding performance throughout the season, with multiple players contributing to their triumphs and success game by game.
One key player is Kendall Locke, a sophomore from Azle, Texas, who has been instrumental in the team's achievements. In December, she was awarded the "Game One Game Changer" honor, a newly established recognition in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) for athletes who make a difference in crucial moments.
Since she was seven, Locke has played multiple sports, but basketball has always stood out. "This game means a lot to me. It is what I grew up with, and it has taught me leadership, friendship, communication, and teamwork," she explained.
For Locke, receiving this award is a meaningful reminder that hard work pays off. Although this recognition is earned through individual performance, the athlete emphasized the important role her team and coach have played in her journey, and shared, "I couldn’t be the player I am without my teammates and coaches. It not only shows that hard work pays off, but it also shows the dedication I have for this community and program." The team’s energy and competitiveness pushes everyone to give everything on the court, which ultimately leads to individual recognition and collective success in the program.
A strong support system is essential for any athlete, and for Locke, Bethel College’s Head Women’s Basketball Coach, Rory Lamar, has been a key figure in her college career. She acknowledges his belief in her, saying, “On the days when I don’t feel my strongest, he always picks me up and reminds me of the amazing player I am.” She remains grateful, she said, for the impact basketball and her coach have had on her life.
Coach Lamar, in turn, expressed his appreciation for Locke’s development as both an athlete and a person. "The team is confident with her at the point, which is the most important position on the court, and I hope she continues to get better."
He also praised her leadership, adding, “She is a wonderful person and a great leader. She leads in practice, she leads outside of it, and when you have a person like that, the results are usually pretty good.”
Despite her current success, Locke’s transition to college was challenging. Being away from home was difficult, but she found strength in her support system at Bethel. “I have grown and matured so much because I have surrounded myself with people who want to better me, especially a coach who has inspired me, believed in me, and given me the confidence to be a great athlete and person.” Her journey highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with people who uplift and support both personal and athletic growth.
Locke spoke about the team’s development and growth, acknowledging their transformation. “Looking back at last year, it is such an amazing change. We have so much passion and drive for the game.” This dedication and perseverance have been evident throughout the season.
Locke expressed confidence in the team’s future and shared, “I have no doubts this team and season will be remembered for a very long time and will be just the beginning of what Bethel College women’s basketball can truly become.”
“I have no doubts this team and season will be remembered for a very long time and will be just the beginning of what Bethel College women’s basketball can truly become.”
Kendall Locke
Locke’s journey embodies dedication, passion, and commitment. Her deep appreciation for her coach, teammates, and program reflects her strong values, which she shares with those around her. As the team continues to grow and achieve great things, this season serves as a reminder that even greater accomplishments lie ahead for Bethel College women’s basketball.
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