ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Caitlyn Benedetto

The East County Observer and Bogey’s Restaurant and Sports Pub have teamed up to showcase the East County’s top athletes. Each recipient’s article will be featured on the restaurant’s wall.

Braden River High senior Caitlyn Benedetto scored 53 points in three games this week, including 14 points in the Lady Pirates 47-31 victory over Manatee Nov. 30. The Lady Pirates point guard is averaging a little more than 18 points a game. Here is an inside look at this week’s Athlete of the Week.

How did you get into basketball?
I’ve been playing for about eight years. My dad has been coaching high school boys and girls basketball for 25 years. I was born in the gym.

What do you enjoy the most about basketball?
I enjoy the team. We’re like a family. We’re close-knit — we even eat lunch together. I love that I have a second family here.

What are your plans for next year?
I definitely plan on playing basketball, but I don’t know where yet. I’m looking at USF, Eckerd and Florida Southern.

Why did you decide you wanted to become a nurse?
I have a huge Italian family, and when one person is in the hospital, we all go and (visit). I love helping people out. I definitely want to go into the medical field.

What was your favorite TV show growing up?
“Gullah Gullah Island.” I don’t know why. I was young. It was probably on when I woke up every morning.

If you could go anywhere in the world where would it be and why?
I’ve always wanted to travel to Italy or Ireland. I’ve always wanted to see the other side of the world. I’ve heard Italy’s beautiful, and it’s where I came from.

Who is your biggest role model?
My dad. He’s the one that started me in basketball, and he’s a great parent, coach and personal cheerleader. It’s amazing how he can juggle all three. If for some reason I can’t play or be a nurse, then I want to be a coach. To be able to follow in his footsteps would be amazing.