See all posts in the Kirk’s Captain Corner series
(Kirk’s Captain Corner is a regular feature that will allow Carver County residents to get to know the student-leaders of the various teams in our high schools. Today, we feature senior Alexis Schaefer, captain of the Chaska Hawks Girls Basketball team.)
How long have you been playing basketball?
I have been playing basketball since I was in kindergarten. I started playing travel basketball in 4th grade, started AAU in 6th grade and started high school basketball when I was a freshman.
When did you know that basketball was going to be “your sport?”
I don’t remember an exact time that I knew basketball was going to be “my sport,” however it’s always been my main sport and the sport I put the most time and effort into. I’ve loved basketball from a young age and that love for the sport has only grown.
What do you like the most about basketball?
One of the things I like the most about basketball is the team aspect of the sport. The teams that I’ve been a part of in years past and today have become lifelong friendships of mine and have become some of my closest friends. There is so much trust needed in basketball whether that’s trusting your teammates, coaches, and even yourself. Being a part of a team that trusts each other is so special and makes the sport that much more fun.
You will be attending Augustana University in Sioux Falls next year and will play for the Vikings’ women’s team. What led to your decision to make Augustana your college home?
When I went to Elite Camp this past summer, the way the camp was run and their style of play was something that I felt I could fit right into. Not only was style of play huge in my decision, but also the coaching staff they have at Augustana includes people who I got along with right away and they were so welcoming. The team there was also very welcoming, and they all want the best for each other and support each other, which is very important to me. The culture that Coach Vogel sets for his team is something anyone would want to be a part of, and I can’t wait to be a part of it this upcoming fall. Also, the academics there and opportunities they have for their students are very good, which was a very important part for me, too.
Your parents are both big Pearl Jam fans, so I have to assume they’ve passed down their incredible taste in music to you. What do you like to listen to in order to get fired up?
Some of my favorite pre-game music that I listen to before games and on the bus consists of a mix of Drake with some country thrown in there, too.
What does it mean to you to be a team captain?
Being a team captain to me means being a leader on and off the court. Being a person who people can look up to as a good example and also lean on for advice. Having your teammates trust you is so important because, if they don’t, they won’t listen to you. As a captain, you have a big say in certain things so having your teammates and coaches trust that you will make the right decision or best decision for the whole group is very important.
