From Daily Dribbles to Division IIi

RECENT TENAFLY High School graduate Juliet Schwartz wrapped up her high school career with a bang. As captain of the varsity basketball team, she led her team with strength, accomplished personal bests, and served as a steady source of motivation through the team’s ups and downs. Though they faced hardships, Schwartz did her best to remain grounded and positive and always encouraged her teammates to do the same. Now, as she prepares to start college, Schwartz is bringing with her the lessons and leadership she gained both on and off the court.

STRENGTH IN SETBACKS

For as long as she can remember, Schwartz has been enthralled with basketball. Her early memories include falling asleep with a basketball in her hand and watching in awe as her two older sisters played the sport. Once she picked up the sport herself, she never looked back. “I don’t know the person I would be without it, it has changed me so much,” reflects Schwartz.

As the captain of the Tenafly varsity basketball team for both her junior and senior years, Schwartz prioritized her team’s mindset, especially during difficult moments. She credits her coach for keeping her calm when self-doubt crept in.

“Coach Mirabito just became the head coach this year, but he’s been my mentor for the past four years. He always knows how to calm me down,” she says. As captain, she emphasized the value of keeping composure. “When you miss a shot, wipe it out of your brain and focus on the next one,” she says.

During her junior year, Schwartz tore her ACL with eight games left in the season. She was crushed to not be on the court with her teammates but didn’t let the disappointment get the best of her. Instead, she stayed on the sidelines cheering on her team with every play. She admits there have been many times she has felt insecure during games, but she learned to quiet those limiting thoughts in order to play her best. “If you have a skill but you don’t have the confidence or the mentality to push yourself and make mistakes, you will never be able to show off your skills and the true player that you are,” says Schwartz.

As much as she enjoyed her time as a student athlete, it didn’t come without sacrifice. She noted that there were times when she missed out on trips and social events due to games. “It wasn’t always easy, but it’s worth it when you love the sport,” she shared.

Though she has experienced lows throughout her basketball career at Tenafly High School, she also experienced highs. Most notably, scoring her 1,000 career points this past season. Who was right next to her celebrating? None other than her co-captain and best friend, Adar Serok. “I love having my best friend on and off the court with me,” says Schwartz. “We’re like sisters. I couldn’t imagine playing without her, she encouraged me every game.”

Along with her teammates, Schwartz credits her family, especially her father, as being an essential source of support. A huge basketball fan himself, her dad coached many of her youth teams and has always championed her growth. “He’s the first person I call after every single game,” she says. “He gives me the best constructive criticism. He’s my trainer and my number one fan. He is always texting me about basketball and always pushing me. I wouldn’t be the player that I am without him.”

PUSHING FORWARD

This fall, Schwartz begins her freshman year at the University of Rochester where she will be playing Division III basketball. As she reflects on the last four years at Tenafly High School, she appreciates the ways in which the school system challenged her both academically and athletically.

“Everyone [at Tenafly High School] is so smart and it pushes you to do better,” says Schwartz. “It’s so competitive, which makes it tough at times, but there is so much help when you need it. The Tenafly school system has really prepared me for college.”

While she has not chosen a major yet, Schwartz is excited about what lies ahead in the classroom and on the court. “I’m excited to play at a high level that I’m not used to and push myself into uncomfortable situations,” she shares. Her advice for girls pursuing basketball? “Have fun, smile, and don’t be too hard on yourself. No one remembers when you airball.”

BY GABRIELLE WALTERS