A Woman's World: Kate Sears Rises to the Top in a Male-Centered Field

Kate Sears on the court. Photo Cred: Charlie Stumb, Watauga Yearbook 

Sofia Carmichael, Staff Writer to The Powderhorn

In the past, sports have been labeled as part of the “Man’s World”, but women have been dominating this world for years, and Kate Sears is no exception. She has become a star player here in Watauga County and in North Carolina as a whole. She has even gotten country-wide recognition and plans to play at Virginia Tech after graduation. But, she has had to work hard to prove herself as an athlete. 

Kate Sears has always been a stand-out basketball player and was recognized for her skill at an early age. Her competitiveness at a young age led her to start playing travel basketball, but this meant she had to play on the boys' teams. 

“I was starting travel basketball and there weren't really any girls teams here that were my age level, so it was my only option”, said Sears. “I think in the long run it was really good for me just because they are obviously bigger and stronger and faster even when you’re younger.”

While some may view this as a challenge, Kate saw it as a great experience. She was exposed to a more competitive environment that she thrived in at an early age, and it set her up for her future success. 

“Looking back, it was a really cool experience because it's not like a usual thing for people to do,” said Sears. “It was a different environment, and it set me up when I was younger since I was able to play on the travel scene earlier than other girls my age.”

Playing on the boy's team helped to instill a strong sense of confidence in Kate’s ability at an early age. Even when she started to play with girls, this self-esteem followed.

“When I was younger and knowing I could compete with the boys, I then knew I could compete with the girls my age, " said Sears. “I was super competitive back then even when I was the only girl, and I’ve carried that growing up and trying continually to be the most competitive person on the court.” 

Like many women in the sports world, Kate has had to figure out how to balance her intensity on the court while still maintaining the femininity she possesses off the court. 

“When I'm on the basketball court, I would say I'm a totally different person then I am off the court”, said Sears. “I am super competitive. I want to win, and I want to do stuff because I worked hard for it. I think that’s very different from what people would think from a girl.”

As we have grown up, we have all seen the development in the attention Women’s sports have gained. And, while everyone loves watching men play, it's great to see how things have developed for women. 

“In Watauga County and the four years I have been at the high school, there has definitely been a change in the support we get from the community,” said Sears. “Last year, going on the deep run in the playoffs gained the attention of a lot of people.”

Even though there are always going to be differences between men's and women's sports, Kate has worked hard to earn her spot at the top, and that is enough for her. 

“People are always going to say that the competition is different for boys and girls and that's always going to be the case, but I think not only what I have been able to accomplish in my high school career, but the recognition throughout the state has been big to help with that respect aspect,” said Sears. 

As Kate has risen in prominence, she has learned to trust in herself to keep playing and to keep striving for success.

“I have morals, I have goals, I know who I am and all the stuff that guides me throughout my journey,” said Sears.  “Understanding that has been a big part of helping me.”