Olivia Bakker
Figuring out which Bakker girl is which is the first problem for the opposition trying to defend against the Duncan Christian School Chargers’ senior girls’ basketball team twins.
Olivia Bakker, 17, a Grade 12 student, and sister Rachael have both come a long way since starting as midget basketball players in Grade 8 and joining the senior team a year later.
“Grade 9, I had no idea what I was doing on the court,’’ said Olivia. “I remember feeling really confused. You learn by playing in the games.’’
Coach Michelle Nederlof has witnessed the progression first-hand.
“Olivia has really grown from being a wide-eyed player that really wants to learn new things to someone who can make things happen on the court,’’ said Nederlof.
Olivia is now a leader on the court in games and practices for the seven-member squad.
She also started in volleyball at DCS in Grade 8 and made the leap to the senior team in Grade 10.
“I enjoy both,’’ said Olivia. “Volleyball’s more of a mental sport so it’s more mentally tiring than basketball is, but I think if I had to pick I would pick volleyball. But I do really enjoy basketball, too.’’
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