By Jeff Moeller, freelance correspondent

These days, Cullen McCormick is happy to be healthy. 

The Richmond Hill senior forward has battled through a series of injuries in her career. However, she has gained a stronger sense of inner strength and perseverance.

“The biggest obstacle I had to overcome in high school was dealing with multiple injuries,” expressed McCormick.  “It was tough to finally get into top shape and then be knocked back and have to start over. That process was both physically and mentally challenging, but it taught me patience, resilience, and how to stay disciplined even when things weren’t going my way. 

“Going through that experience has helped me grow not only as an athlete, but as a person, and has ultimately made me stronger and more appreciative of the game.”

McCormick has been a low-post presence among her peers in the area, as he is averaging 10.7 points and 9.5 rebounds per game.  She has worked to improve her overall game, and has been pleased with the results.  

“My game has improved a lot this season,” gushed McCormick. “I’ve had to become more creative and think outside the box, especially when things aren’t going as planned. 

“I’ve grown into a better leader by communicating more, staying composed, and leading by example. I’ve also become a stronger and more confident player, both mentally and physically, which has helped me make a bigger impact on the game.”

The Wildcats began the week with an overall 7-10  (0-6 Region 1, Class 6A) record and mired in a seven-game losing streak. They will travel to Southeast Bulloch Tuesday, and host Valdosta in a region game Friday. 

McCormick realizes her team is still experiencing growing pains, but she remains positive that they can turn the corner.

“We are a very young team, and we’re still learning how to grow together and improve each day,” said McCormick. “ A lot of our struggles come from making small mistakes that add up, and from not putting our foot down when other teams go on a run. 

“As we gain more experience and confidence, we’re learning how to respond better in those moments, stay composed, and control the pace of the game. Those are things that will come with time, consistency, and continued growth as a team.”

Yet, McCormick isn’t ready to concede anything.

“I still see a lot of opportunities left in this season,” beamed McCormick. “We still have to play each team one more time in the regular season, which gives us a great chance to improve and make a push. Consistency will be the key moving forward, along with fixing the little mistakes that can make a big difference.”

Head coach Sarah Jones knew this season would be an uphill climb with the loss of three seniors from a 19-8 campaign last year. But Jones believes her club will continue to stay steadfast to their goals, despite some injuries this season.

“All of our regional opponents have been  really good,” said Jones.  “Unfortunately, we have missed starters and struggled to get shots to fall.

We are a young team in regards to varsity experience, as we only have two starters back from last year. We are getting better throughout the season and have competed and been in some games against really tough opponents.”

Before regional play, the Wildcats were battle-tested, and their schedule hasn’t benefitted them through their current slump.  

“Prior to region play, we played Bradwell, a final-four team from last year, and Jenkins, a team that barely lost the state championship last year,” said Jones. “ So our strength of schedule has been extremely tough through this losing streak.”

Jones is aware how a different bounce of a ball could have changed her team’s fate.

“We’ve told the girls if we can just have one or two better possessions a quarter, you win some of these close games that we have lost,” evaluated Jones. “Our goal is to continue to work and to be playing our best ball as we close out the regular season.” 

However, Jones has recognized McCormick’s contributions. 

“Cullen is a definite leader for our team,” boasted Jones.  She’s an extremely hard worker and has become our leading scorer and rebounder. She is having an outstanding season, and has been a leader for us.”

McCormick, who is currently mulling over five college offers to continue her career, has embraced a leadership role.

“I see my role on this team as a leader who helps set the tone both on and off the court,” beamed McCormick. “I try to keep the team motivated, bring positive energy every day, and push my teammates to be the best versions of themselves. 

“Whether that’s through communication, leading by example, or stepping up in tough moments, my goal is to help the team stay focused, confident, and connected as we continue to grow together.”

And McCormick will be glad to lead the way.