Ryan Dodds is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Gilbert High School for AZPreps365.com

High School sports are a place for growth, not only as an athlete but as a person.  

Aspen McClees is a junior at Gilbert High School and is a two-sport athlete.  She is the star of the girls basketball team, leading them in scoring, and contributing on both sides of the ball in flag football. 

“Playing two sports and being an upperclassman has helped a lot, being a leader and role model.” McClees said. 

McClees has helped bring the Tigers to their best season in girls basketball since they moved into the 6A Conference finishing 16-2 in the regular season. 

After a loss in the Open State Championship to Desert Vista, Gilbert moved past Higley in the 6A State Tournament quarterfinal and Sunnyside in the semifinal.  Gilbert takes on Hamilton in the 6A State championship on Saturday at 11 a.m.. 

Coaches at the high school level have an influence on young athletes and need to help them grow. 

“Our job is to build them up to the next aspect of their life no matter what that is, whether it’s on or off the field." said Brian Winstead, Gilbert girls flag football coach.

“I’m really big about when I coach is building character,” Winstead said. “That everything we do on the field is a life lesson and you’re going to take that to the real world.”

Coaches for both teams McClees is on Winstead and Savannah Bix, Gilbert girls basketball coach, said McClees is a great leader. 

Winstead said McClees is always encouraging and wants to be better and make her team the best it can be. 

“She’s passionate, and a kid that’s passionate is fun to be around,” said Bix. “She’s fiery. I’m fiery.”  

On the court you see the passion through her growth as a player, gradually improving statistically as a basketball player since her freshman year, scoring more, causing more turnovers and being more comfortable shooting from 3.  

“I think I pride myself on how hard I work on and off the court.”McClees said. “I think it's huge in staying focused and committed, I feel like I’m really dedicated to what I’m doing right now.” 

Bix noted McClees watches a lot of film, works hard in practices and team lifting sessions along with getting shots up after practices. 

McClees also shines on the football field recording six interceptions and two sacks on defense along with over 400 yards and five touchdowns on the offensive side of the ball.

“I think her coachability is what impressed me the most,” WInstead said. “That was the one question, I didn’t know how coachable she was and after getting a season with her, she’s so coachable and eager to get better at anything she does.” 

McClees said she initially decided to play flag football for fun and to improve her speed and agility on the court.  

“Basketball is definitely my main commitment.” McClees said.