Athlete of the Issue: Dyanna Prater

By Maegan Green

Dyanna Prater (’13) is a guard and team captain of the women’s basketball team.  She leads the team in points per game, field goal percentage, and steals.

The Lady Blazers recently played their first Capital Athletic Conference game of the season.  Although Prater contributed a single-game, career high 21 points, the Blazers lost toSalisbury57-48.  The 21 points scored by Prater tops her previous personal best of 20 points she put up against CAC rivalWesleyCollegelast season.

Prater is a consummate leader of the team.  “It feels really good being a leader,” said Prater. “At times it can be stressful, because everyone is looking up to you so there is a lot more pressure to work harder.”

Although the Lady Blazers have not been victorious this season thus far, Prater is optimistic about the potential of the team.  “Even though our record does not reflect the amount of effort and hard-work we have put in, we continue to work hard and not get down on ourselves,” said Prater. “I think if we keep working hard, cut down on little mistakes, and continue to play with heart and effort, the rest of the season will be very positive.”

This is the inaugural season of BB&T Arena as the home of Hood basketball and Prater is excited about it.  “BB&T feels like home,” said Prater. “The atmosphere, fans, and students make everything feel right. It is nice to have a place we can actually call our own, and practice in everyday.”

“My greatest athletic achievement so far would have to be making it on the wall in the new fitness center,” said Prater. “I cannot even explain how great of a feeling it is.”

One of Prater’s goals for this season is to minimize turnovers.  “As a team, I just want us to win some games and work hard.”

Prater’s greatest achievement of the court is making it to college and being successful.  Prater has been playing basketball since she was in the 3rd grade.  She is majoring in Business Management and would like to get involved with Human Resources.  In her spare time, she enjoys watching movies and hanging out with friends.