While Ciara Byars has earned her many achievements through hard work, everything she has accomplished is deeply rooted in support from her family and community.
Byars has made her mark on GRC through her athletic career. Her greatness has been acknowledged on the national level with a nomination for the McDonald’s All-American Games.
The McDonald’s All-American Games are a series of games with elite players nominated from all over the country. Only 805 players from the entire country have been nominated to have the opportunity to be selected for the final team this year.
Out with an injury for more than a year, Byars was not selected for the final team, but the nomination remains a huge honor.
“Greatness and success doesn’t come overnight,” said Byars. “A nomination is based on individual skill, IQ, and potential for the future.”
This nomination is more than an honor of her dedication and skill nationally. Byars is the first ever player from GRC to be nominated.
“I’m truly honored to be the first nominee ever to attend GRC,” said Byars. “GRC and many people in this community have supported me and rooted for me in every loss and win.”
Throughout her accomplishments, including her recent commitment to continue her athletic career at the University of Michigan, Byars has kept one thing in mind.
“Never forget where you come from but also find comfort in going outside of your comfort zone to leave your hometown,” said Byars.
With all she has learned, Byars has strived to make herself a positive role model for other girls on the GRC team.
“I truly just want to leave an inspiring impact by encouraging my teammates and any other future players,” said Byars. “I want to leave behind an example of what leadership looks like on and off the court, but also letting girls know that if you have dreams and goals you can achieve them.”
While GRC has greatly impacted Byars, her family has been her biggest supporters through everything.
“It’s a true testament to my parents, seeing how hard they work and persevere through the day to day challenges inspires me,” said Byars.
Not only have her parents inspired her, but Byars also grew up with siblings who impacted her journey.
“My siblings always humbled me at an early age, but also encouraged me through the toughest times,” said Byars.
Throughout all of her goals being achieved and her successes, Byars always remembers where her motivation comes from.
“My family is the reason I continue to strive for greatness,” said Byars. “Everything I do is to make them proud and return a little piece of this life they’ve given me.”
