Aug. 4, 2015
By: Larry Lacksen
Georgia Tech Athletics Communciation & PR Student Assistant
As summer break slowly begins to wind down for most college students, members of the Georgia Tech women’s basketball team continue to work hard in the gym as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Redshirt freshman forward Erin Garner reflected on the improvements the Yellow Jackets have made throughout the offseason.
“I think we have grown tremendously,” Garner said. “We have all gotten stronger just over this summer. Workouts have been getting a lot harder, especially our individuals, but I think we are really getting prepared for the upcoming season.”
After playing in only two games last year before undergoing season-ending back surgery, Garner went through months of rehabilitation and physical therapy in order to get back on the court with her teammates.
“It was a long recovery process,” Garner said. “It was like a 6-month recovery time and I had to basically learn how to almost walk and run again. So it’s been a long process, but we have good trainers and I’m back to normal.”
The 6-3 Philadelphia, Pa. native came to Atlanta with strong credentials out of high school. She averaged a double-double her senior year at Trenton Catholic Academy and broke the school’s record for most blocks in a season, registering 17 in one game.
But Garner is less concerned with the individual accolades and instead focusing on how she can help her team during conference play this upcoming season.
“Sitting back and not playing last year, I got to watch a lot of action with the post players around the ACC,” said Garner. “I saw how strong they were so hopefully I get the chance to battle with them. But, I’m just really working hard and hoping I can play a major role this year and pick up where anyone else lacks.”
Q: Who do you try to model your game after on the court?
A: I always try to beat my brother. But as far as game, I have always tried to be like Candace Parker.
Q: Other hobbies outside of basketball?
A: I like reading. I just go outside and read sometimes. I really enjoy mystery books and I just go to Clough sometimes and sit and read when I have free time.
Q: Favorite place to visit in Atlanta?
A: I like going to Atlantic Station. I don’t have a favorite place to shop, but I just love shopping in general.
Q: Who is your favorite musical artist?
A: I love Beyoncé. I have every album and I know every song.
Q: Favorite Beyoncé song?
A: Crazy in Love.
Q: Most-used app on phone?
A: SoundCloud.
Q: What are your plans after Georgia Tech?
A: Hopefully I’m fortunate enough to take my talents to the next level, but if not, just wherever my degree can take me.
