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Franklinton High School’s Eliziah Riley

Franklinton High School’s Eliziah Riley is a basketball player and a member of the Demonettes, which is the school’s dance team.

Riley plays guard in basketball.

“Eliziah Riley is a vital leader to the Lady Demon Basketball team,” Franklinton girls basketball coach Elecia Crain said. “She has shown that resilience is what she is built on. She has worked through some adversities, but yet found ways to improve her game and remain a leader on and off the court. I am looking forward to seeing what the future holds for her.”

What do you enjoy most about playing your sports?

I love basketball personally. Whenever I get stressed out in my life and I get anxious, basketball is my outlet. It gives me a feeling of comfort about everything in life.

What do you like best about being a student athlete?

I think I really love when we come back to school from a game, especially the younger kids, you can tell who looks up to you and you feel like you’re famous. I love the feeling of being a role model. It also makes me be the best version of myself because I know younger students are looking up to me.

Who has been the most influential person in your school sports career? Why?

My coach (Eleica Crain). She always makes sure we have our heads up after we play and she always reminds me that God is watching everything I do. It makes me realize that God is the most important person I’m playing for and that through my sport, I can glorify his name.

Who is your favorite athlete? Why?

Tennis player Serena Williams. She has been through so many trials and tribulations and she keeps on pushing forward. No matter what people have said about her and everything she has had to fight for in her career, she has never let any of it stop her. It’s also inspirational because not only is she a woman, she is an African-American woman.

Favorite team?

I don’t have a favorite team, but I like to watch games learn different things you can pick up on TV or in person.

Best thing about living in Washington Parish?

I love that everywhere you turn, you’re finding people that you know and you can catch up with them. This is such a tight-knit community. Also, our community has not backed down with any challenge faced by coronavirus.