A four-year varsity player and senior captain, guard Grace Coughlin scored her 1000th point in the Red Knights’ season opening win against Orono on December 3.

Working since her freshman year, the milestone was the culmination of her hard work and constant dedication to the sport she loves. “Scoring my 1000th point was a great feeling and accomplishment. It was never a goal I set for myself, but it’s awesome that I was able to reach that milestone in my basketball career at BSM,” Coughlin said.

While the achievement is a great milestone for Coughlin, the road to her 1000th point was filled with many challenges. She hurt her knee her sophomore year before sections and broke her wrist at the end of the season her junior year. ““All players face challenges and roadblocks, but those hardships are what make you a better player and stronger person” Coughlin said.

She had to accept the injuries and do what she could for her team, but also gives credit to her teammates and the support and positivity of her friends, coaches, and fans for reaching her 1000th point.

“I couldn’t ask for better teammates. I’m very fortunate to have such a close team on and off the court. The positivity and hard work each and every player brings to the court helped me achieve this goal” Coughlin said.

Coughlin’s play has been a key part to the Red Knights’ strong start as they recorded a 3-0 start with wins over Orono, Minneapolis Southwest, and Maranatha Christian. Although this will be her final season as a Red Knight, Coughlin has committed to the University of Minnesota and will pursue her basketball career at the collegiate level next season.

“I have made a lot of sacrifices in high school for basketball, but it’s been worth it. Hard work does pay off, you just have to be patient, know your goals, and do what it takes to achieve them” Coughlin said.