Shooting for greatness: Hanover athlete Riley Stigler’s record-breaking legacy

HANOVER, Pa. — In the world of high school sports, few athletes demonstrate the dedication, skill, and mental toughness of Riley Stigler. A senior at Hanover Senior High School, Riley plays in both basketball and volleyball, setting records and inspiring her teammates along the way.

Her athletic journey began in kindergarten with basketball, a sport she’s now played for an impressive 13 years. Six years ago, she added volleyball to her repertoire, showcasing her versatility and commitment to athletics.

“I love all the intensity,” Riley says about her chosen sports. “I like it when things are fast-paced, and volleyball and basketball are exactly that.”

On the basketball court, she has been nothing short of phenomenal. She’s shattered all three-point records at Hanover, including:

• Single game-made threes: 7 (set in her sophomore year)
• Threes made in a season: 56 (breaking her own record of 55 set in her sophomore year)
• Career threes made: Currently at 146, with aims to surpass 200 in her senior year

As she enters her final high school season, Riley is on the cusp of joining the elite 1,000-point scorer club, needing just 289 points to reach this milestone.

Despite her impressive achievements, Riley acknowledges that her biggest challenge in sports is mental toughness. “Sometimes, you feel as if everyone is doubting you and waiting for you to fail,” she reflects. However, she’s found a way to turn this pressure into motivation. “I manage this challenge by letting all the noise fuel me. I want to prove everyone wrong and succeed.”

This mental fortitude is bolstered by wisdom from her parents and coaches. Riley often recalls her parents’ advice: “You can’t control what others do, you can only control what you do, so keep doing you.” Her basketball coach, Zac Carrick, has instilled in her the importance of focusing on the “next play” and maintaining a “it is what it is” mentality.

Riley’s impact extends beyond her individual accomplishments. As a team member, she’s learned the value of supporting others. “I love being there for my teammates and helping them when they need it. I feel this makes me a great leader,” she says.

This team-first attitude has helped Riley and her teammates navigate challenges on and off the court. She recalls a moment when a play didn’t go as planned: “We just acted like that was how it was supposed to happen, and it worked out for the best.”

With her high school career nearing its end, Riley has already secured her future in athletics. She recently committed to McDaniel College to continue her basketball career, a testament to her hard work and skill.

As she continues her senior year, Riley remains focused on her goals. While the volleyball team narrowly missed districts this year, she’s determined to make her final basketball season count. With her eye on the 1,000-point mark and a desire to lead her team to more victories, Riley Stigler is undoubtedly letting her mark the world of Hanover’s high school sports.

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