Athlete of the Week: Elise Spiller

Lakewood Ranch High freshman Elise Spiller scored a game-high 17 points to lead the Lady Mustangs to a 42-30 victory over Palmetto in their Class 6A-District 12 opener Dec. 7. The 14-year-old guard has helped lead Lakewood to a 6-2 start this season.

Why do you think you have been so successful this season?
Mostly because of my dad and coach Tina (Hadley). They always push me to do my best, and I try to do my best in the games.

What do you enjoy the most about being a guard?
I like shooting and working on my shot. I also like working on my ball-handling skills.

How did you get into basketball?
My dad was the team manager in college and he also played basketball. He introduced me to it and I liked it.

What do you enjoy the most about basketball?
I like playing with my team, because we work together to win games.

What does it mean to you to be a Lakewood Ranch Mustang?
It feels good. Being in high school, I can look back on when I played in middle school and on my travel teams and feel like I’ve improved a lot.

If you could play another sport for a day, what would it be?
Volleyball. Most people think because I’m tall that I would be good at volleyball.

Who is your biggest role model?
Coach Tina (Hadley). She balances a lot. She’s a mom and she works two jobs. She’s a really good coach and she pushes you to be your best.

Do you know what you want to be when you grow up?
A history teacher. My favorite subject is history and my mom is a teacher, so I’ve picked up stuff here and there.

What is your favorite food?
Macaroni and cheese

Do you have any siblings?
I have a brother Evan, who is 12 years old.

Do you have a favorite book?
“Lock and Key.” It’s a story about a girl my age, so the stuff that happened to her I could relate to.