By Derrick Smith

Role models can serve as a very important part of a person’s life. They can impact who we become and how we live our lives. And high school student-athletes are no different, except their role models can also affect how they prepare and play in their sport. Lilly Travis has a few people that have helped her become the person she is today. 

“I have been blessed with a lot of role models in my life,” she said. “My parents would have to be the biggest influences on my life. They are the most passionate and kindhearted people I know. I strive to be more like them every day. Another person that has been important in my life is coach Webb. She has taught me far more than just the game of basketball. She’s taught me how to be bold and courageous, and to also see the best in even the worst situations, and most importantly how to use the correct hand when stealing the ball.”

Travis is a sophomore at Sperry High School, where she is a multi-sport athlete. She plays point guard and shooting guard for the Lady Pirates basketball team, a sport she started playing six years ago. She is also a member of the track and cross country teams. 

Lilly says that while becoming the athlete she is today has required a lot of work, she knows that in the end, it will pay off. 

“It has taken a lot to get where I am today,” she said. “There has been a lot of hard work and dedication. The good part is that I am only getting started.”

Throughout her career, she has enjoyed some great moments, but she says that making school history ranks right up near the top. 

“The highlight of my career would have to be upsetting Heavener in the basketball playoffs,” she said. “With that win, our team advanced to the Area round of the tournament. That was something that the Lady Pirates had not done in about twenty-five years.”

Along with playing sports, Travis is also a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the Key Club, and the student council.