Council Rock North senior Helena Gemmell signed a letter of intent to play basketball at East Stroudsburg University.
Helena Gemmell – East Stroudsburg University (Basketball)
Major: Hospitality Management with a concentration in restaurant management
Reasons for choosing East Stroudsburg: “I started visiting and getting invitations to visit colleges early in my junior year. I just kept comparing (colleges), and ESU always came out on top.
“My very first visit to ESU felt different than other campuses I had been on. I could imagine myself attending ESU. It was comfortable, and it’s close to home. My family can come to games, and it has the restaurant/culinary major. Once I met the basketball team and coaching staff, my decision was easy. They were so friendly and welcoming. I’m so excited to start.”
What was the progression that led you to playing collegiate basketball? “I actually started play soccer (3 years old) way before basketball (7 years old). I was playing both, and believe me, I love to play both sports! In middle school, I knew all my coaches would expect me to commit to one sport with priority for high school. My Soccer ODP coach and my club soccer coach were not happy I chose basketball, and my basketball coach didn’t believe me!
My aunt, Maureen Mooney (my dad’s sister), was part of the Mighty Macs (movie) Immaculata team. She was captain of the ’73 Mighty Macs. My Grandma Mooney (dad’s mom) also was a great basketball player in her time and continued as a high school official into the 70’s. My Aunt Jo Anne (mom’s sister) played for West Chester in the game against Immaculata highlighted in the Mighty Macs movie. I kind of feel basketball is in the genes. It was my choice to pursue the basketball career. I have enjoyed playing basketball and plan to carry the #22 on into college history.”
Coach Liz Potash says: "Helena was a huge part of the team this year and oftentimes singlehandedly dictated the pace of the game. Her skills and athleticism allow her to be a threat as a guard or forward. She can get to the basket or pull-up, handle the ball or post up, and defensively, her contributions were enormous. Whether it meant shutting down opponent’s forwards or centers, creating steals or rebounding, she really can do it all. Helena has the ability to turn up the intensity and completely turn a game around, as she did many times for us this season. Off the court, you could always count on Helena to lighten the mood with her great sense of humor."
East Stroudsburg coach Maureen Smith says: “We are so excited to have Helena become a Warrior. She will bring athleticism and defensive intensity to the wing position. She will be a nice compliment to the team.”
About Helena:
Favorite food: Spaghetti & Filet Mignon
Favorite movie: Bridesmaids & Horrible Bosses
Favorite music: Ne-Yo
Chocolate or vanilla: CHOCOLATE!!!!!!!!
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