Photo by JUNIATA COLLEGE ATHLETICS Mifflin County graduate Bri Bodtorf shoots for Juniata College women’s basketball during a game this season. Bodtorf is in her senior year with the Eagles.

Mifflin County alumnus discusses college playing career

HUNTINGDON — As a senior at Juniata College, Bri Bodtorf is making sure she appreciates every moment that comes her way.

The Reedsville native and Mifflin County alumnus went from scoring 8.7 points per game during freshman season to now averaging a team-high 14 points per contest.

Bodtorf also leads the Lady Eagles in minutes played at 32.7 minutes per ballgame. The guard/forward is also team leader in good free throws with 31 made in 42 attempts.

“I have become a more confident player. I had to adapt to my different roles throughout the seasons and become a more versatile player. I have learned that your mindset and confidence are huge in this sport. Having the next play mentality along with confidence every time you step on the floor will carry you far. Also remembering why you play the game is huge. Always have fun because you never know when you might have to hang the sport up. Especially as a senior you realize to cherish every opportunity,” Bodtorf said.

Court vision is such an important part of basketball and the ability to anticipate certain elements of the game before they transpire. Bodtorf noted that she has also improved in that area.

“My court vision has really grown throughout the years. I focus on making smart decisions and seeing plays develop before they happen. I take pride in every aspect of the game including rebounds, steals, deflections, blocks and assists. I try to create for my team by having an all-around game,” Bodtorf highlighted.

The former Husky mentioned that she wants to make a difference with the Eagles in her final season.

“For my senior season I want to make the postseason. It has been a while since Juniata made it and I want to be a part of getting back there. I want to leave my mark on the program by achieving some personal milestones as well as some team ones. I want to be able to walk away when my career is over knowing I gave everything I could,” Bodtorf added.

She currently has 801 total points in her playing career and has started 79 of 80 games.

Bodtorf is one of four seniors on the Eagles roster, which includes Olivia Berg, Emma Coolidge and Emily McCann.

How has playing basketball assisted with Bodtorf’s leadership skills?

“Playing basketball forced me to step out of my comfort zone and into a leadership role. Our team is full of grit, energy, and dedication. It’s amazing to play with people who are willing to step out on the floor and have your back as well as give their 100% effort. Knowing my team is going to do that every day keeps me going. They are a group I want to stand beside, lead and give my all,” Bodtorf elaborated.

Juniata is 0-7 entering their game with Messiah on Wednesday.

“Obviously, the season hasn’t started out how we wanted it to but that’s not stopping us. We continue to get 1% better every day. We do not let our record define our team. We know if we keep working hard every day, we are going to see the outcome we want. We continue to stay together, having each other’s back, working hard, staying disciplined, and having fun,” Bodtorf said.

Junior center Laney Gerdich is second on the Juniata team in points with 7.4 per game. Berg leads the Eagles in made threes with eight.

“My teammates have challenged me in so many ways throughout the years. They have pushed me day in and day out from my teammates in high school to my teammates in college. They never let me drop my head or lose my confidence,” Bodtorf explained. “They push me in drills, hold me accountable, and force me to be a better leader. They have shaped my work ethic and the way I carry myself on and off the court. I am very grateful for every single one of them.”

Bodtorf also reflected on her high school tenure at Mifflin County and some of the lessons she has taken with her over the years.

“Mifflin County taught me to have a strong work ethic and time management skills. I learned how to balance schoolwork with athletics. It is not easy and that is why I am thankful that Mifflin County taught me this early on. I learned how to be independent and determined,” Bodtorf said.

She also delivered some advice if athletes are trying to pursue a college basketball career.

“Some advice would be to just have fun. Playing college basketball is a huge blessing that I wouldn’t change for the world. It is hard but it is very rewarding. Work hard every day, have confidence, and enjoy it because it goes by fast,” Bodtorf shared.