Most people know her for her talent on the basketball court, but few would expect her to be an extraordinary artist as well.
Junior Annie Acello participates in two sports, playing basketball at the varsity level while also doing lacrosse. Her basketball journey began at only seven years old, when she first discovered her passion for the game.
“I fell in love with basketball the moment I picked up the ball,” said Acello. “It wasn’t easy, and I loved that it challenged me. It’s helped me make friends and learn to work as a team.”
That challenge followed her into high school. Acello earned a spot on the varsity basketball team her freshman year, making her the only freshman on the team; an experience that shaped her into the player and teammate she is today. She said her family’s support helps her to achieve her long-term goal of playing basketball in college.
“I understand it’s not easy, but my dream helps to drive me to do well in the classroom and on the court,” said Acello. “I have a really supportive family, coaches and teammates who push me to keep going.”
To be a varsity athlete demands you to be more than just physically talented.
“Being a varsity basketball player means to show up even when you’re tired, to push yourself and others, and to lift up your teammates,” said Acello. “Not every shot will make it, and you won’t win every game, but being able to stay positive even when you’re not playing your personal best is a huge part of being a varsity player.”
Basketball captain Charlie Axus said Acello’s work ethic and attitude set her apart from others.
“She is always the first one in the gym, working extremely hard at practice, and playing with her, you can tell she is constantly seeking improvement,” said Axus. “Not only does she bring hard work and pushes everyone on our team to be better, she also is a big source of our team encouragement and positivity.”
One proud moment Acello said is during a LFHS girls varsity basketball game her sophomore year. After fouling out in the first period, she went back in after halftime and scored 14 points in two periods.
Acello is part of the basketball team’s offense and is a “crucial” rebounder.
“Annie has so many important roles to fill on the team between being a captain and upperclassman, to sometimes playing the post for our short team of guards, and simply instilling the love for the game in her teammates,” said Axus.
Through years of playing basketball, Acello said it has shaped more than just her athletic ability. The lessons she has gained from the game have pushed her to grow as a player and a person.
“Basketball has helped me become strong both physically and mentally,” said Acello. “It’s made me learn how to be a team player and a leader. It’s helped me to learn about constructive criticism and that if you want something, you have to work hard for it.”
But she isn’t just good on the court. While basketball plays a major part in her life, Acello has found a new love for art.
“I just fell in love with it,” said Acello. “I love my art teacher and it’s so fun. I find it relaxing so it’s a nice break in my day.”
Ceramics teacher Mrs. Jennifer Thomas said Acello’s determination carries into the art room.
“She’s a go-getter. She sees something that needs to be done, and she does it,” said Mrs. Thomas. “She’s curious about things, and she’ll find ideas, and then she’ll practice and try them a ton until she gets it how she wants it.”
Teachers said that Acello’s perseverance is one of her greatest strengths on the basketball court and in the classroom.
“Annie has grown in her own skills so much that she has developed confidence in herself and leadership in the classroom as well,” said Mrs. Thomas. “People will come to her and ask for help because she’s so approachable. She meets everyone exactly where they are at with joy, love, and support. ”
Mrs. Thomas said Acello’s motivation in ceramics is different from her competitive mindset in sports, but she still pushes herself to be the best she can.
“I don’t feel like she’s competitive with other people, like she would be on the basketball court, but she’s competitive with herself,” said Mrs. Thomas. “And I think that helps push her forward and keeps helping her grow.”
That drive to do better is something Acello said comes from her family.
“My siblings and I are very competitive. We like to compete and joke about who’s more athletic than the other. It’s fun to always have someone to play basketball or lacrosse with.” said Acello.
She said her parents have always encouraged her and her siblings to do what they love and commit to what they choose.
“My parents have always encouraged us to pick something that we love and put everything into it,” said Acello. “It did not matter what that thing was, the only thing that mattered to them was that we were willing to put in the work.”
Whether on the basketball court or in the ceramics classroom, Acello approaches every challenge with determination and a smile. Balancing academics, athletics, and art has taught her that success is not handed to you, but comes through perseverance and hard work.
“My dad has always said, if it were easy, everyone would do it,” said Acello.
