By Wayne E. Rivet

Staff Writer

Sydney Hancock is one of the Western Maine Conference’s top point guards, for a variety of reasons.

She is a nifty ball handler and a deadly shooter.

She is able to zip a pass through tight spaces or put a touch toss over the defense to a teammate for an easy score.

She is an outstanding defender, able to put the clamps on opposing team’s floor leader, while also able to battle for tough rebounds.

Lake Region Coach Paul True has seen “Syd” develop her skills and overall game to be a major leader of the 13-0 Lakers.

Last week, Coach True learned something new about his junior point guard. She is “gutsy.”

Sydney is well deserving of this recognition (Player of the Week). I chose Sydney due to observing one of the gutsiest performances I have seen in quite some time at our recent game in Freeport,” Coach True said. “While battling sickness and clearly not feeling like herself, Syd played 30-plus minutes in a huge win. After the game, she was at the point of exhaustion. That really sums up the type of teammate Sydney is. Team first! Sydney is a special player that makes everyone around her better.”

In recognition of her strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Sydney is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.”

Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed t-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

The Hancock File

Name: Sydney Hancock

Year in School: Junior

Town: Casco

Parents: Kevin and Alison Hancock

School Activities/Sports: Varsity basketball, soccer, outdoor track, National Honor Society, Student Council, Class treasurer

Q. Why did you choose basketball? SH. Its has always been really big in my family for years, and I grew up loving the game just like they did. I love the intensity and team aspect of the game.

Q. What do you hope to accomplish this season? SH. I’m hoping to help my team to win the Western Maine title and a state title after that. Lake Region is long overdue for a Gold Ball!

Q. What do you enjoy the most? SH. I love the atmosphere of the gym and the emotion of an exciting game. The feeling you get is so rewarding.

Q. What do you like the least? SH. When the season is over.

Q. What makes you successful? SH. My positive attitude and outgoing personality. I do everything with a lot of passion.

Q. What would your dream moment be? SH. To cut down the net after winning a state title.

Q. What has basketball taught you? SH. It has taught me how to be a team player. One person cannot do everything. It is amazing what can be accomplished when people put their efforts together.

Q. Who has inspired you? SH. My parents inspire me to be the best I can be. They have both been very successful in life, and have been supportive of me through everything. They push me to be the best I can be.