Conkle defending Elks Hoop Shoot Title
COSHOCTON – On Feb. 17, Colton Conkle will be defending his state Elks Hoop Shoot Champion title at Gahana Middle School.
“I’ve been playing since I was 5-years-old. I first started playing basketball at Kids America. I enjoy playing basketball because it gives me the opportunity to play against other kids to make me better,” said Colton. He is 10-years-old and in fifth grade.
Colton said he is a little nervous about defending his title. “I have to use a regulation size ball and I have to shoot from farther back this year.” He said he isn’t doing anything different to prepare for this year, just continuing to shoot as much as he can. When he isn’t practicing, he likes watching his favorite teams play – the Coshocton Redskins, the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Cleveland Cavaliers. He also likes playing video games and spending time with his family and friends.
His parents, Jeremy and Tiffany Conkle, have always encouraged him in playing basketball. When asked what basketball has taught Colton, Jeremy said, “Nothing in life is easy, you have to work hard for everything you get.” Jeremy also said he believes playing basketball has taught Colton that if you continue to put time and energy into whatever you want, good things can and will happen.
Tiffany said, “Colton just competed in his tenth Elks Hoop Shoot and I feel the same every time – nervous and excited. I always tell him the same thing – do the best you can and I am proud of you no matter what the outcome.”
