Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/1477292
20 WAC Magazine | wac.net living fit meet the athlete E M I L I O H U E R TA S ( 4 ) Meet the Athlete George Valle By Joey Carreon Born in Illinois and raised in Bellevue, George Valle fell in love with basketball in elementary school. His childhood birthdays often included tickets to watch the SuperSonics or Huskies. George went on to play at Sammamish High School and Whitworth University (2012–2016) and now plays in the WAC basketball league, which resumes in the fall. Q. To what do you credit your high school and college success on the court? A. Half the battle is showing up and holding yourself ac- countable! In high school, we played a fast-paced style of play, which helped me learn how to play multiple positions. en in college, I joined a Whitworth program with a strong tradition of developing players, and my game really came togther. Q. What's your favorite part about the sport? A. e relationships it has helped me build. I've met so many great people through the game of basketball and have coaches and teammates that will remain lifelong friends. Q. How has your experience been with the WAC basketball league? A. I look forward to the games every week, and I highly recommend it to other hoopers at the WAC. ere are several divisions to play in, so you'll be placed in the correct division. e games are very competitive. Q. How else do you use the WAC? A. I work out in Men's Fitness on the 5th Floor. e Club helps me maintain a healthy routine and hold myself accountable. Q. Any advice for young players with college basketball dreams? A. My advice is to truly fall in love with the game. e best way to do that is to enjoy the process. If you take care of that, everything will fall into place. Q. Who were some of your favorite players growing up that you modeled your game aer? A. In middle school and high school, I went to a lot of Husky basketball games, so I really fell in love with Isaiah omas' game. He always made me wish I was a ley! JOIN THE ADULT WAC BASKETBALL LEAGUE The adult WAC basketball league is accepting players for its women's team and men's teams. The league offers divisions for various ages and skill levels. Captains will draft teams on Thursday, September 8. Fall season begins the week of September 19 and runs through December. For more information, contact Athletic Programs Manager Darin Barr at dbarr@wac.net.