D6 Athlete of the Week: Gage Schminke, University High School

"Gage is a 4 year starter that does so much for our team. He is a kid that does whatever we need him to do to have team success. Gage is a leader on and off of the floor, and is a player that is respected by the rest of our team. He has helped lead our team to a record of 14-3 at this point in the season." - Bob Ervin, Coach

Student Name

Gage Schminke

School

University High School

Grade Level

Senior

Sports

Basketball, Football, and Track

Positions

• Basketball: Guard
• Football: Linebacker

Stats

• 14 PPG
• 6 RBG
• 4 APG
• 2 SPG

"Hitting 1,000 points because it has taken a long time, and I have been working for it for 4 years." 

What are your goals for this season?

"My goals for this season are to make it to the state tournament and go on a run with my team."    

How do you manage the balance between academics and athletics? What strategies have been most effective for you? 

"I balance my academic and athletic life pretty effectively. I would say one of the strategies that has worked well for me is going to coffee shops or the library, so I know that is a space to work and get stuff done." 

How do you handle pressure and maintain mental resilience during high-stakes competition?

"I just try my best to block out the noise and focus on what I know I can do and what I have practiced. I just believe in myself and know I can do anything."   

What are your career or college plans after you graduate high school? 

"I plan to go to Colorado Mesa University to study Exercise Science and Kinesiology."   

Do you have any funny pre-game rituals or superstitions that you stick to?

"No."    

If you were to participate in a talent show unrelated to your sport, what would your act be?

"I would play the harmonica. I'm not that good at it, but I can play a pretty good 'Happy Birthday.'"