Zeldenryk gets set for college

From p76

She began playing for Dandenong in the under 14s on Friday nights, alongside the Warriors on the weekend, filling up her schedule as she progressed.

In 2019 Makaela was a part of the winning under 18 VJBL Vic Championship side at Dandenong, while also taking out the Youth League championship before coronavirus lockdown.

With everything shut down, she focussed her attention on her Year 12 studies at St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School, Warragul and for the first time in years, didn’t have to juggle schooling, social life and basketball.

“I pretty much had a year off basketball. I didn’t play a game which was a big change. It was good to have some social life again, I was a bit freer and more had more time to go on walks with friends and spend time with family as well,” she said.

It was then her career took another turn. Previously, Makaela had turned down an offer to Purdue University, not feeling it was the right fit.

Her mum Amanda encouraged her to keep an open mind about college after she turned down the offer and it was then she became open to the idea.

That’s when the perfect offer came. She received a message from Sharks coach Reid Takatsuka who had viewed her highlights tape and spoken to some former teammates and after a phone conversation, was offered a scholarship the next day.

“I always thought I didn’t want to go, but mum has always said to have a look. I’m glad I kept my options open.

“I was kind of shocked, it was an opportunity I couldn’t give up and I feel Hawaii is going to be a fantastic place for me,” she said.

With connections to the university playing at Dandenong with senior and former Marist Sion student Alysha Marcucci, Makaela said she is excited to begin her next adventure, one she couldn’t have done without the support of her family.

“They’ve been massive for me. Mum would drive me everywhere, from tournaments in Sale to Bendigo and all over the state. I’m so grateful she gave her time and invested in me,” she said.

Her father Mark, brother Tom and sister Jess also travelled to watch and support her, something she’s incredibly thankful for.

Makaela will be studying biochemistry and health promotion at the university, working her way towards a college degree.

“I’m excited about the basketball, but also the chance to live in Hawaii, it’s such a great location,” she said.

Makaela will have a few weeks to settle into her new home when she heads to Hawaii in August before the college season begins, with the schedule set to be released in the coming weeks.