IVCC sophomore and women’s basketball player Karly Near was awarded the Steve Crick Memorial Award during Sophomore Night on Feb. 10.

Near, a 2013 graduate of Mendota High School, said she was “shocked to win because I had forgotten about the award so when it was presented to me on sophomore night I was very happy about it.”

She also stated, “It felt good being recognized by my coach and the athletic board for my hard work and dedication to basketball.”

Near plans to attend St. Francis College of nursing in Peoria to become a registered nurse. She would also like to pursue her bachelors of science in nursing.

When asked to reflect on her most memorable moment from this season she stated, “it would have to be beating Carl Sandburg since we lost by 30 the last time that we played.”

This season has been one of growth and learning Near remarked. “Looking back, I learned this season that it is important to be a leader, and no matter if you lose, all that matters is the effort that you put into the game.”

With two games remaining in her college career Near said her focus is on, “working hard and putting in a lot of effort.”