Sasha Benon, a student here at Normal West, is not from Normal. She’s not from Bloomington…or even Hudson or Carlock.
She’s from Lille, France.
Sasha and many other foreign exchange students drop their lives in their home countries to experience and learn from a high school in the United States.
It becomes even more special when these students get involved in the school environment or even try out for sport.
Sasha, 17, has played basketball for about seven years in France for a club team, but when she was given the opportunity to play basketball at her new school, she took the opportunity.
Sasha’s love for the game has no borders and, of course, this has come with many challenges for her and the team.
“I find it very hard but I love basketball,” Sasha said.
The team has even implemented an earpiece for Sasha to wear during games and practices to help her understand what the coaches are telling her. Coach Ostling commends Sasha’s determination to learn and stick with it, though it may be tough sometimes.
“The most difficult part is not playing with girls I know and not knowing this version of the game and the system,” Sasha says.
“Recently, in a game, Sasha got called for a three-second violation, and she was confused because in France the rule is four seconds so that took some explaining but she’s a really intelligent player and already since she’s been here her English has gotten so much better,” Ostling noted.
In France, there is no such thing as high school basketball; there’s only club basketball, which would mean practicing only 2-3 times a week.
“The difference in frequency of practices and also the intensity and physicality of practices and games has been a big difference for her,” Ostling said.
Sasha is many things but Coach Ostling believes the word “resilient” describes her the best.
“She’s resilient; she may only talk to her family maybe once a week because of the time difference and how busy she is with school and practices, so definitely resilient,” Ostling exclaims.
Sasha commends her teammates and coaches for her success. They have been with her every step of the way as she learns basketball and attends school.
“The players and coaches are super welcoming to me,” Sasha said.
Every other week, the team holds “culture building” events to build team culture, but also Sasha teaches the team some French words and phrases. There is no doubt that Sasha is benefitting the team on and off the court.
“I would describe Sasha as passionate and hardworking, she wants to get better every day and always has a smile on her face. She’s a great addition with her height, but also the energy and support she brings to the team.” Sophomore Hope Ferrill says.
You can catch the Girl’s Basketball team at home this weekend December 20th when play the Champaign Central Maroons.
