Q&A with Norfolk Collegiate three-sport freshman athlete Clare Sullivan
NORFOLK, Va. — Clare Sullivan is a freshman at Norfolk Collegiate. The three-season athlete participates in volleyball, lacrosse, basketball and runs cross country. This winter she will be hitting the courts playing basketball for the Mighty Oaks following a year’s hiatus due to COVID athletic protocols last year. Being a multi-season athlete is not an easy accomplishment, but Norfolk Collegiate freshman Clare Sullivan makes it look easy. She runs cross country, plays volleyball, basketball and lacrosse. She also loves the flexibility playing multiple sports provides her, which is why her favorite sport is whichever sport is in season. She’s most looking forward to returning to the basketball courts this winter following a year’s hiatus due to area COVID-19 protocols for athletics last winter.
What drew you to your sport?
Clare Sullivan: I started playing basketball because my dad loves it and he started coaching my team in kindergarten.
What do you love about your sport?
Sullivan: I’ve played basketball since I was in kindergarten, both in school and out, and I’ve always enjoyed playing with my friends and competing with them.
Have you considered dedicating your efforts to 1 sport? Why or why not?
Sullivan: No, I have not considered dedicating my efforts to one sport because they complement each other well. For example, a lot of basketball skills apply to lacrosse, and cross country training benefits basketball and lacrosse.
What are your personal goals within your sport/athletic dreams?
Sullivan: I want to become the best player I possibly can and reach my full potential in each sport. I strive to improve every day to help me defeat my competition. That is something I like about competitive sports—the constant competition motivates me to work harder.
What was the best advice you were given (sport or personal)?
Sullivan: The best advice I have ever received is to play my own game because I am the only person I can control on the court or field.
Do you have a saying or motto that you like to live by?
Sullivan: I play by the motto “do your job,” which I borrowed from the Patriots. If every player does their job, the outcome of the game or play will be positive.
Do you have a pre-game ritual you follow?
Sullivan: I prepare for games by talking with my coaches and teammates. I also like to be familiar with the course I’m running or the gym I’m playing in, so I’ll walk the course or around the gym to be more comfortable and relaxed.
How has the past year with COVID regulations changed how you approach your game, if any?
Sullivan: My eighth grade cross country, volleyball and basketball seasons were canceled due to COVID-19, which was very disappointing, so I appreciate the opportunity to play on teams even more now.
What advice would you have for someone looking to play your sport?
Sullivan: I would advise them to dedicate themselves completely because success isn’t given.
What’s next for you?
Sullivan: I am looking forward to getting back on the court for basketball games this winter and then lacrosse season in the spring.
What would you like people to know about you personally or as a member of the team?
Sullivan: I would like my teammates to know that I am reliable, hardworking, and always willing to help.
What do you like to do outside of your sport?
Sullivan: I enjoy spending time with my friends and family and traveling to Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, with my family every summer.
How would you describe your personality?
Sullivan: I’m outgoing and positive, and I try my best to be kind to everyone because everyone deserves kindness.
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