By Candace Friedrich

Reprinted from the Riley Countian

 

Have you ever had a moment in your life where the only explanation for your decision or action was a simple, “I just knew”?  In a world of choices (often too many of them), these moments are ones to be treasured.  Time and again indecision and hesitation cloud up our minds and slow down our actions.  In athletics this delay can be a killer; the slightest bit of uncertainty could be the difference between a win and a loss.  The most successful athletes are those that can think, react and perform a step ahead of the competition.   

For 2006 Riley County graduate Zack Sullivan, his choice to play college basketball was one such “no brainer” moment that has led to a great deal of success.  After a high school career full of accomplishments, he knew what road his life was headed down next. 

“I always enjoyed basketball and I knew I wanted to go on and play (in college),” said Sullivan, a three-sport athlete in high school. 

Towards the end of his senior year at Riley County, with recruits out in full force to pursue the 6’3” forward, Zack made the decision to put all the pressure to pick a school on hold until after the Falcon’s finished their season. 

Zack’s focus definitely paid off, as he and his teammates were able to make it to the 3A State Championship game.  Although they lost that final contest, the Falcon’s had nothing to be ashamed of as they posted an impressive 23-3 season record.  For Sullivan, his final total of 974 career points was good enough to earn him a spot amongst the top 10 scorers of all time at Riley County High School (6th). 

With his senior year in the record books, it was time for Zack to make that important decision of where to continue his basketball career.  His list consisted of mainly four-year schools with Kansas Wesleyan, Newman and Bethany being the top runners.  Each had something to offer, but one in particular stood out to Zack. 

“I looked around at other schools, but Bethany just felt right,” recalls Sullivan.   

Zack’s choice to attend Bethany College in Lindsborg, KS proved to be the right one as he was able to make a huge impact during his freshman year.  He averaged 5.8 points per game on 59% accuracy from the field and 80% from the free throw line.  He also grabbed an average of 2.5 rebounds in each of the Swedes contests.  His consistent play earned him a spot on the KCAC All-Freshman Team, an honor voted on by the conference coaches. 

“At first it was a tough transition,” said Zack.  “The level of competition and the speed of the game were different and it just requires a lot more time.  All the guys are real cool and get along well, so that helps.” 

Fortunately by going with his instinct, Zack has found a school that not only allows him to succeed on the court, but off the court as well.  He was named to the Dean’s Honor Roll for both semesters his freshman year.  As an accounting major, Zack is also an active member of the Bethany College Business Club.

Looking forward to his sophomore year, Zack’s only goal is to keep improving. 

“Next year we just want to get better all-around and keep improving as individuals and a team,” he said.  “At times it’s tough with all the work, but in the end it’s worth it.” 

During his years as a Falcon, Zack participated in football, golf and basketball and was the student council secretary.  Zack was also a member of the Future Business Leaders of America, National Honor Society and Ecology Club.  He maintained a 4.0 GPA and was named class valedictorian.