Journalism: Profile Article

Andrew Walsh
4/1/15

As a four year starter and soon to be letter winner, Kelsey Shirey has
had more than enough experience as a leader for Grove Citys womens
basketball team. As a junior, she was All-PAC honoree and the team leader in
assists and points. Now as a senior, with her career winding down at Grove
City College, Shirey has left her mark on the court.
The Ohio native has added success to the team in all categories this
season, including 11.1 points per game, 3.6 rebounds per game, the lowest
amount of turnovers per minute, and an eye opening free throw percentage
of 85. Her surrounding cast has been a positive effect, composed of players
such as junior forward Kathryn Erbelding, senior guard Cayley McClean, and
freshman guard Lexie Arkwright. Yet, Shirey has brought many things to the
table over the years for the Lady Wolverines that could be considered
unmatchable, including record tying and breaking performances.
On January 31, Grove Citys womens team suffered a heartbreaking
loss at home to Waynesburg by a score of 69-64. The team trailed by up to
fifteen points in the second half, but that didnt stop Shirey from taking over.
She propelled a comeback that eventually gave the Wolverines a one point
lead in the second half, although her 22 points were not enough to take
home a victory.
Yet even with a loss in the books, Shirey had recorded six threes, which
tied the record for most threes made by a Grove City womens basketball
player in a single game. None of this is new to Shirey, after setting the single
game record for free throws made without a miss (13-13) last season against
Waynesburg.
After seeing the record tying performance, I talked to Shirey about her
time here with the basketball program. After being asked about how she felt
about the monumental performance, Shirey replied modestly, I was
surprised by the amount of threes I actually made. In the heat of the game
you dont really think about your own statistics. But it was definitely exciting
and nice to know. With all her credentials as a leader of this team, I decided
to ask her what she does on and off the court to make this team what they
are today. Well, on the court I do everything I can do be the ideal point
guard this team needs. I like to stick to the offense that Coach Fuss utilizes,
but also make plays happen individually when needed. She added, We run

a leadership group with our team to show us how to become better leaders
on the court. It really builds the chemistry of the girls on our team.
Shireys contributions will be missed, as the Wolverines finished fourth
in the PAC with a record of 14-14, after suffering a loss in the semifinals to
Thomas More.