By Katherine Rasmussen
For most freshmen, the first year of high school is about adjusting: whether it’s new classes, new routines, or finding a place to fit in. For freshmen Bailey Dinh and Emmy Tran, that place just happens to be on the Fountain Valley girls varsity basketball team.
As the only two freshmen on the varsity roster, Dinh and Tran entered the season knowing the jump from middle school basketball would be a big one. The speed of the game, the physicality and the expectations that come with varsity sports forced both players to adapt quickly.
“It was a big jump going from middle school to varsity basketball, but it helped that our team was really welcoming,” Dinh said. “Having older teammates who were patient with us made it a lot less intimidating.”
Both players credit the team’s environment for helping them feel comfortable early on. With several upperclassmen leading by example, the freshmen were able to learn what it meant to compete at a higher level while still feeling supported.
“Everyone was super encouraging, especially during the first few weeks,” Tran said. “They always made sure we felt included, even though we were younger.”
Basketball has been a constant in both players’ lives for as long as they can remember. Starting at just seven years old, Dinh and Tran have grown up around the sport, spending countless hours in gyms, at practices and at games. That early start shaped not only their skills but also their mindset.
“Basketball has always been part of our routine,” Tran said. “It’s something we grew up with, so playing at a higher level just feels like the next step.”
However, being on varsity as freshmen comes with its own set of challenges. Between schoolwork, long practices, games and travel, time management has become one of the most important skills they have had to learn.
“You definitely have to stay organized,” Tran said. “There are days where you go straight from school to practice and don’t get home until late, so you have to plan ahead or else it gets stressful.”
Dinh agreed, adding that learning to balance responsibilities has helped her both on and off the court. “We’ve had to figure out how to manage our time early,” she said. “It’s helped us stay focused and not feel overwhelmed, especially during busy weeks.”
Dinh and Tran also credit their older teammates for shaping their experience this season. Practicing and playing alongside juniors and seniors has given them a clearer understanding of leadership and work ethic. “Our older teammates lead by example,” Tran said. “They show up ready to work every day, and that motivates us to do the same.”
One of Dinh’s personal goals moving forward is improving her shooting consistency.
“I want to work on my shooting more, especially being more consistent in games,” she said. “I know that’s something I can get better at with more reps and confidence.”
As for Tran, her focus is on continuing to grow overall as a player and teammate.
“I just want to keep improving in every aspect,” she said. “Whether it’s defense, communication, or confidence, there’s always something to work on.”
Beyond personal goals, both freshmen hope to become role models for younger players who may be where they once were. Having started basketball at such a young age, they understand what it feels like to look up to older players and imagine being in their position one day.
“When I was younger, I always looked up to the older girls on the team,” Tran said. “Now that we’re on varsity, I hope younger players can see us and feel motivated.”
Despite being freshmen, both players have shown maturity beyond their years, handling pressure, expectations, and responsibility with confidence. Their ability to balance academics, athletics, and personal growth has made them valuable members of the varsity team.
“Being on varsity has taught us a lot, not just about basketball, but about discipline and commitment,” Tran said.
Looking ahead, Dinh and Tran are excited to see where the next few years take them, both individually and as part of the program.
“We’re just focused on getting better every day and helping the team however we can,” Dinh said. “Being freshmen doesn’t really change our mindset.”
If their first season is any indication, Dinh and Tran are off to a strong start, proving that age does not define ability. Through hard work, inspiration, and support from their teammates, the two freshmen are building a foundation that could shape not only their high school careers but also the players who look up to them next.
