Anika Weekes Announces CMU As Her Choice For ’18

Anika Weekes (3.5-stars, 5’9″, G, St Joseph-Wellesley/Scarborough Blues) of Scarborough, ON has given her verbal commitment to attend Central Michigan University of the NCAA’s Mid American Conference (MAC) for the Fall of 2018.

“I feel accomplished, in a sense that I’m finally one step closer to my career goals,” said Weekes about being able to announce her decision.

Weekes has very long arms which she uses to create problems on the defensive side of the ball. The combination of that reach along with a hustle mentality that is ready and willing to sacrifice her body for loose balls. She is often found to be an even keeled player, but isn’t shy about mixing in a gritty ‘I won’t take any mess’ type of attitude to keep her opponents from thinking she’s a push over. On the other side of the ball, she is no stranger to starting the break, and has no qualms about posting up smaller opponents and contributing in the paint.

But being her hallmark, it was the defensive style of play that the Chippewas play, that was a key attraction for the high school Junior.

“They are a defensive type team,” she said about the on court connection that spoke volumes in her decision making.

“They value defence and agree that defence wins games. They value rebounding, and working hard but still able to have fun in the sport.”

When making her ultimate decision, Weekes was diligent in doing her homework, adding to the confidence she now has with her ultimate decision.

“I did a lot of research on schools and at the end of the day it came down to my list of pros and cons,” Weekes explained. “My main focus was the academics, before looking at any stats I researched the program they had and what they had to offer me academically.”

Anika Weekes – Jan 2013

As well, a visit to tour the CMU campus back in early December 2016, played a big factor in the decision making as well. It was there that she felt to lock her choice to attend the Mount Pleasant, MI school, located about 50kms away from Lansing, MI, and about a five hour drive from her home in Scarborough, ON.

“I had the opportunity to meet the families of some of the players, which was nice to know who would be in the crowds rooting for me, along with my family. I’m very big on family so this was important. Distance was also something that factored into my decision making. They aren’t too far but are far enough that my parents won’t come see me every weekend!”

Weekes was reflective of her journey up until this point. She recognizes that there were several twists and turns she had to go through in order to get to this milestone of deciding where her next steps will be education-wise. She ended up concluding that a steely resolve and the support of those closest to her were instrumental.

“Through the ups and the downs I knew what my main goals were, and I stayed focused and continued to work hard. I’m proud of myself, but I know there’s still more work to be done.”

With family being as close as it is for her, Weekes will no doubt be anxious to see where her twin sister, Paulla, will be selecting to attend fro meeting her list of suitors.