Sports fan
Becca grew up around sports and has worked for a variety of teams as a volunteer or in paid positions. Now majoring in sport management–leadership at Northwestern, she plans to become a player development coach in hopes of working in the NBA.
Support system
I chose Northwestern because I wanted to deepen my faith at a college where I would be encouraged to go to chapel and to have meaningful conversations about my beliefs. I also wanted to grow in a community of people who want to see me succeed. At Northwestern, I’m not just one in a thousand; I’m known and have friends in all areas of activities. It’s truly a community of people who care about and support each other.
Lifelong mentor
For the past 12 years, I’ve worked for the Sioux Falls Skyforce basketball team, starting with sweeping the floor to now working home bench and assisting the players with anything they need before, during and after the games. I’ve had players and coaches throughout the years who have taken me under their wing and taught me special insights into the game itself. The one who had the biggest impact on my life was Coach Sean Rooks. Sean played in the NBA for 12 years. He encouraged me and became a friend, and he is part of the reason I am where I am today. After his time working for the Skyforce, he got a player development job in Philadelphia working for the 76ers. Even though he was farther away, he still stayed in contact and was one of my biggest supporters. Watching him and the impact he had on his players made me realize I wanted to work behind the scenes developing players like he did and helping them reach their best at the highest level of play.
Social media intern
I served as a summer intern for the Sioux Falls Storm indoor football team after volunteering with them for nine years. I’m the social media on-field and game day tunnel crew intern. In that role, I’m responsible for all content on the Storm’s Snapchat and Instagram feeds before, during and after the game. Working for the team is a fast-paced job, and I’m always on my feet covering a lot of ground on game days. I’ve had the opportunity to interact with players in order to gain fun content and to be part of the action by running down the field and throwing out footballs during touchdowns.
Raider manager
I currently serve as the manager of Northwestern’s men’s basketball team. I’m in charge of setting out basketballs, towels and water bottles, and getting six hoops down and lights on before practices. After practice, I collect practice jerseys and shorts and put them in the laundry in preparation for the next day’s practice. I pack all of their bags for away games or put uniforms in lockers for home games. I’m also available to rebound balls for our players after practice or during the day.
Church home
I’ve definitely grown spiritually and deepened my faith at Northwestern. Worshiping and praying with other students during Praise & Worship on Sunday nights is the highlight of my week. I was also blessed my freshman year to find my home church at First Reformed Church in Orange City. Pastor Mark Haverdink and his wife, Suzanne, welcome me into their home every Sunday noon for a warm, home-cooked meal.
