Determined to Win

     Before Tuesday's game versus East Surry, Cassidy Joyner had one thing in mind, to win.

     Whistles blew, the crowd hushed, and every eye in the gym was on Cassidy Joyner.  A mid-air collision put the Lady Eagles's sharp shooter on the floor, leaving her with a bloody chin and, later, fifteen stitches.  Many thought she was out for the game.  Even Joyner herself had doubts about her return, but her determination was too much for the seemingly game-ending injury.  Before anyone realized it, some quick numbing and a newly bandaged chin had number 2 back in the game in the second quarter.  New life was brought to the team.  Although the star played cautiously at times, she played well, leading Central to a 4th quarter rally. 
     It seemed like an impossible feat.  Yet, it was the moment that any athlete dreams of.  Down by one, 4.1 seconds left and the entire court away from their basket.  Joyner called for the ball and got it.  She charged down the court, weaving through Cardinal defenders, and put in the game-winning lay up!  Crowd cheering, Cardinals shocked, and Cassidy on top.
     She later said, "I knew I could make it, we do a drill in practice where we have to make it from one end of the floor to the other in four seconds or less".  She KNEW she could make it.  She was determined to make it, determined to win.

Forest Kimbrell - SCSID