On & Off The Court
Writer: Lauren B. / Editor: Ariana W. / Photographer: Maya D.
Sigma Delta Tau’s (Sig Delt’s) Cayla P. loves taking her interests to the next level. Cayla’s experience with basketball began when she started playing at age eight. She continued the sport throughout high school where she consistently made varsity all four years. In college, Cayla decided to transform her passion into a future career by studying sports management. Basketball gives her a feeling of empowerment that she wanted to share with others. This love of the sport inspired Cayla to study sports management and take on the position of student manager for the Florida State women’s basketball team.
She’ll also incorporate aspects of her field of study into Sig Delt. When she was the spirit chair of her chapter, Cayla explained how she would put a “halftime show” in chapter meetings, which would feature funny videos of members from the previous week. She also got sisters up and moving by running a field day during spirit week where she planned a variety of activities, from tug of war to egg-on-a-spoon to two legged races. Her reasoning behind hosting these events was simple: “It got the chapter so excited for Recruitment with some fun competitiveness.”
Being a student manager for the women’s basketball team for over a year, Cayla is an expert on the position. Her role entails a myriad of different tasks, both on and off the court. She sets up practices by getting out all the specific equipment that will be needed according to the schedule. During practice she “runs the clock,” meaning she helps the coaches and players stay on track during practice and stick to the plan. Cayla also helps rebound and pass for players both during practice and the pre-game. During the game, she is getting stools ready for players during time outs or making sure the floor is clean when a player falls. When she’s not with the basketball team, you can find her helping out in the office with recruiting projects and other small projects.
Cayla’s work with the team is not bound to FSU or even the city of Tallahassee. In fact, she will sometimes travel with the team! Recounting the discovery that she was going on her first trip of this type, Cayla explained “It was such an exciting feeling to be able to travel with the team and to get to absorb so much more information of what goes on when the team travels. It showed that all of my hard work and dedication was paying off!”
Despite Cayla’s dedication to her field, it’s not always easy. When asked about a lesser known aspect of her position, she lamented that “a common misunderstanding about the team is how students think it’s not fun to watch or worth going to see us play. Our team is significantly better than the men’s this season. We’re even ranked! It’s sad to see when there is no one in the stands in the student section.” However, less recognition doesn’t stop Cayla from making the most of her opportunity for both professional experience and genuine connection. In fact, with all the time she’s spent with her work, Cayla has noticed a lot of similarities between being involved in Panhellenic and women’s basketball. “When I joined Sig Delt I felt comfortable right away and same when I started the basketball team,” she described. “I can be who I am at both places!”
Cayla’s work will continue to inspire her sisters and everyone she comes into contact with as a student manager. Her advice to anyone looking to take their interests to a professional level: “Do not be afraid and do what you are passionate about.” In terms of a practical approach to that, she urges “Networking is so important, so make sure you are always connecting with people and working hard.” Cayla’s work ethic, attention to detail, and passion will allow her to bring new energy in her efforts to support the women’s basketball team. She’s dedicated to promoting female excellence in the Panhellenic community and in sports management.