Senior James Haifley
"I can count on one hand the number of games my dad missed during my career," says Jimmy. "That meant a lot to me." His family was behind him every step of the way and will remain an important part of his life. "Pops has always been the most influential person in my life," he adds. "I value his opinion over any other and I always look to him for advice."
The Forester games truly became a family affair last year when Ben joined the team and his sister Katie was still a Forester cheerleader. But, as James wraps up his senior season at Huntington he says he will miss the larger HU basketball family.
"I never expected as many people to care about the basketball program as much as the people around Huntington do. Huntington’s men’s basketball fan base is absolutely second to none."
MEMORIES ARE MADE OF THIS
When asked what he will remember most about his HU basketball experience, he replied, "When I look back at my times playing basketball, I will first remember all of the great players that I had the privilege of playing beside. I will also remember the excitement of winning a big game . . . and the disappointment of losing, too."
Haifley plans to follow in his father’s footsteps by getting into healthcare, "After graduation, I hope to start my own small business in the healthcare industry. I also plan on spending a lot of time with my family," adds James.
As one who had the opportunity to play the game with you one season, I’ll say it’s been a pleasure watching you grow the past four years. I know the entire HU nation wishes you the best of luck in your future endeavors!
- by Ryan Thwaits ('04)
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Senior Jared Yoder
THINGS TO REMEMBER
Jared says that he will always value the friendships he built and remember the great times he had on and off the court at Huntington, including his pre-game ritual. "I will always remember playing 'Thunderstruck' by AC/DC before a game," he says. Either in his room with his roommates or on the bus, he had to hear it before games.
He’ll also remember helping at the Huntington University summer basketball camps, as well as the camps at Spiece Fieldhouse. Jared has the right personality to work with young kids, especially when it comes to helping them learn the skills necessary to succeed in basketball.
Last, he’ll remember that tournament run HU made at the end of the 2006 season, as well as playing in front of the Forester faithful. "The fans and community support that we have here at Huntington are the best in the country at our level. I really enjoyed playing for Coach and all of the Huntington fans," says Yoder.
OFF TO THE FUTURE
After four years of hard work, Jared will be graduating this spring with a degree in Exercise Science. He hopes to find a position as a personal trainer and stay close to the game by watching his brother Justin finish his high school and college career. Someday, Jared would like to follow in the footsteps of his father by coaching in some manner.
As a Forester Fan, as well as a friend, I want to thank Jared for all the hard work and dedication he has put into the Forester basketball program. We all wish him the best of luck in all of his future endeavors.
- by Chase Verba ('06)
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