Q-and-A with Kiela Garner, Rich South

• Reprints

Kiela Garner, Rich South. | Joseph P. Meier~Sun-Times Media

Updated: May 9, 2012 10:12AM

Kiela Garner, 17, of Matteson, is in her fourth season on the Stars varsity for Rich South. She also plays volleyball and plans to run track in the spring.

You are fearless when it comes to going the length of the court. Where did the confidence come from?

My teammates and my friends. They support me a lot.

What’s it like playing for coach (Brian) Mays?

(Laughing) It’s cool! He puts a lot of pressure on me, but that’s cool.

What team on the schedule makes you say, ‘Oh, yeah. Bring it on.’

Rich Central. They’re always our rival, and I know they’re a team to beat. And Bloom because my friends play for them. And I love coach Ron (Newquist).

What opposing player would you love to have as a teammate?

Either Bria Gaines (Bloom) or Makeba (Elliott) from Rich East.

Do you have any nicknames?

At AAU they call me Kiki. And Jasmine Collins, who graduated last year, calls me Ki-lo-lo.

What one thing in your closet can you not live without?

My shoes and my purple clothes.

What did you think of that big snowstorm on Friday?

It wasn’t as bad as everybody thought it was going to be. But I don’t like snow, so it was bad.

How long does it take you to get ready for school?

On a good day, 25 to 30 minutes. But on one of those lazy days, it could take an hour.

What really irritates you?

When I have to repeat myself or people ignore me.

Your dream celebrity prom date?

J. Cole. I just like his music. He’s a good rapper.

Where are you in 10 years?

Either in a (pro) league or a psychologist.

As told to Tony Baranek