Annie Wise: Varsity Basketball and Tennis Player

By Abby Holland

Sophomore Annie Wise always dreamed of playing her two favorite sports in college. Her dream came true at Trinity.

Wise is one of the few dual sport athletes at Trinity, playing for both Trinity’s women’s basketball and tennis team. “It’s really important to have a blessed unrest about who you are as an athlete and to understand that it’s really humbling to get to be apart of two teams,” she says.

Growing up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Wise developed her love of sports at a young age. She grew up playing field hockey, tennis and basketball, and eventually decided she wanted to pursue basketball and tennis. But that posed a challenge when it came to choosing the right college.

“Getting to Trinity was a little different for me than other athletes,” says Wise. “I immediately knew Trinity was a really good place for me. I thought to myself, ‘is there a possibility for me to play both sports at Trinity?’ and there was.”

Already a varsity athlete in both sports in high school, Wise first contacted women's basketball head coach Cameron Hill and then tennis head coach, Gretchen Rush. Both coaches were excited about Wise joining their teams.

Playing on two teams is already exceptional, but what’s even more remarkable is that Wise is excelling in both sports and making a tremendous impact on both teams.

“Annie Wise is the perfect representation of what we hope to attract to the Trinity Women’s Basketball Team,” says women’s basketball head coach Cameron Hill.

In February, Wise was named Trinity’s “Strength and Conditioning Athlete of the Month.” Daniel Martinez, Trinity’s strength and conditioning coach, explains the reason for choosing Wise for the award, “Her team-first attitude and extraordinary work ethic have been difference makers for her athletic performance and this helps motivate those around her to do their very best.”

Wise also received recognition from the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) earlier this month, being named SCAC Character and Community Athlete of the Month. This award is given to an athlete that not only exceeds in athletics but also gives back to their campus and their community.

It is clear Wise’s impact reaches far beyond basketball and tennis courts to her teammates, coaches, campus, and community. Several of Wise’s teammates spoke about her dedication to each sport and her loyalty as a friend. “Annie is very hardworking and is always willing to go the extra mile,” says Emily Daniel, Wise’s basketball teammate.“If you’re having a very bad day, she is the first person to help out. She would do anything for you.”

Wise’s tennis teammate and doubles partner, Abby Watson, shared similar sentiments. “Annie is the kind of teammate and doubles partner that always gives 110% and leaves everything on the court. I always feel confident playing with her and knowing that she has my back.”

Wise is a business major and a sports management minor. She is constantly trying to find the perfect balance between athletics, academics and social life. According to Wise, her time at Trinity has taught her not only how to be a successful athlete but also about time management and keeping her priorities straight.

Her determined spirit also extends into her career aspirations. Wise hopes to follow in her parents' footsteps and ultimately become a pilot. Her dream is to fly for the Air Force or fly commercially. No matter her career path, Wise’s experiences are preparing her to fly.