Senior Kyle Ganton
most proud of is being part of the ‘winningest’ class in Huntington history." The Foresters went 108-31 while Kyle was playing; a 77.7% win ratio over four years.
LONG-TERM MEMORIES
While the team’s championship objective was cut short at the NAIA national tournament this year, he will remember being part of the NAIA runner-up team that played in the championship game last season. His best memories of the NAIA National Tournament are "getting to play against great teams and getting to watch great teams."
Kyle has memories at Huntington University that go beyond basketball; memories that will stay with him the rest of his life. And while basketball has been a part of his college experience, he is most proud of his academic success and being able to graduate in four years.
"Basketball at Huntington University has been more meaningful than I thought it would be," says Kyle. "I've grown as a basketball player but, more importantly, I’ve also experienced growth as a person."
He can't say enough about the people he has met. His teammates have had a big impact on his life, as well as his professors and other friends at school. He will always remember them and the fans that "are awesome."
PROMISING FUTURE
Kyle will always be known for his soft shooting touch, but his quick and genuine smile will also be something we will remember. He will make a terrific teacher because he is always willing to take time with children. When they ask for his autograph, he quickly smiles and signs it for them with a personal touch. His patience and grace shows a natural ability that will make him a great teacher.
Another attribute of this outstanding and caring young man is the importance of family to him. "My family has meant everything to me," he says. "They are always supportive, even if I have a bad game. They are always there for me and they would do anything for me."
Kyle Ganton is a man who will succeed in whatever he tries to do. His parents acknowledge that "the influences Huntington University have had on him are many. We are proud of the man he has become."
We are proud of you, too. Not only have you shown your talent as a basketball player, but as a compassionate young man. We will certainly remember the man with the quick smile. Thanks, for sharing four years with us.
- by Susanne Easterday
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Senior Alex Kock
As an example, on Christmas day, they couldn’t have their family Christmas until after Alex had his work-out. His dedication to the game and to the teams for which he has played has led to the success of those teams.
In spite of his dedication, Alex gives credit for his success to his family, as well as some great coaching. And sharing the floor with some great players has made him a better player than he would have been otherwise, too.
Even with all of Alex’s statistics and accomplishments, we the fans, will remember Alex for his composure and professionalism on and off the court. I have heard Coach Platt say several times, "As good of a basketball player as he is, he is a better person." I see this as a trend with the HU players over the last several years and that makes watching these teams even more enjoyable.
MEMORIES AT HUNTINGTON
Alex will have some pretty awesome memories from his experiences at Huntington. When asked about the most memorable ones, he stated, "When I came to HU, I pretty much had one good friend here (Jared Yoder); now I have a ton of friends that I will have for a lifetime."
His most memorable basketball experience at HU is the 2006 National Tournament run last season. In addition to the NAIA tournament games, the last two years’ MCC Championship games were memorable as well, with a packed gym and six great wins.
One thing he has appreciated about Huntington was being surrounded by good people: students, professors, and fans alike. Alex spoke highly of his professors; especially Dr. Pat Zezula (retired 2006). "It was nice to have professors that knew your name, unlike larger, state schools." Alex will graduate this spring with his degree in education with certification in Physical Education and Health Education.
THE NEXT CHALLENGE
This should come as no surprise; Alex wants to play more basketball. He plans to explore the opportunity to play professionally overseas for awhile and then, after his playing days are over, he wants to teach and coach. Eventually, he’d like to be an Athletic Director, much like his father. With his commitment and dedication, it seems he can accomplish any goal he sets for himself.
Here’s to a quality player and a quality individual. Alex, along with the other three seniors, will be greatly missed.
- by Jamie Hotchkiss ('95)
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