BLOG 6: Thelen sees deep, talented Bulldog roster

By Sandy Gholston

Ferris State’s Teghan Thelen makes a jump-stop move in the lane as she prepares for a shot during practice (Photo/Sandy Gholston)

BIG RAPIDS – Teghan Thelen has put in a lot of hard working during her time in Ferris State University’s women’s basketball program.

Her efforts started right from the beginning as she worked to improve her conditioning level while she also put in the hours to hone her skills as a basketball player. One by one, Thelen put building blocks in place to become the steady hand she has become for Ferris on the hardwood. The 5-foot-6 guard has climbed her way up the ladder to become one of the better all-around guards in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.

It all starts, however, with the mental aspect, according to Thelen, who has gained enough experience to know the challenges that are ahead of her and her teammates. That experience has taught her plenty.

“I think one of the biggest things I’ve improved on is my attitude,” said Thelen, who is a native of Pewamo who prepped at Pewamo Westphalia High School where she was one of the state’s top guards. “I’ve worked hard at being a good communicator with my teammates and good communication is so important to a team’s success.”

Thelen, who started 25 of 29 games last season as a junior, has and continues to work to improve her skills. She has developed one of the GLIAC’s more consistent jump shots and, this year, is expanding her game even more. Thelen is working toward becoming a player with the skill to attack the basket on the drive. With the added dimension, Thelen could become an even tougher cover for her defenders.

Thelen also is enjoying her leadership role on a team that has some experience, but also has a fair share of youth.

“It feels good to be one of the players that people are looking to a little more for leadership,” said Thelen, the team’s top returning scorer who last season averaged 10.4 points and 4.1 rebounds for the Bulldogs, who finished 17-12. “We have a good group of players with experience and we want to lead the team this year and we’re looking forward to it. I’m excited about what our team can do this season.”

If you have any questions, ideas or comments feel free to contact Sandy Gholston at sgholston2@netzero.com