By Derrick Smith

Siblings can be the first friend and influence we have in our lives. If they are older, we usually look up to them and if they are younger, they usually look up to us. Either way, siblings play a big part in our lives. Serenity Golightly says that her siblings have played a big role in the person and athlete that she is today. 

“The biggest influence in my life is my brother EJ,” she said. “He trains me in the gym and helps me to get better. My dad Eric and my sister Dominique have both been role models for me in my life. My dad played NAIA and Dominique played DI. All three played college basketball to pay for their education and that is what I hope to do as well.”

Serenity is a sophomore at Chickasha High School, where she is a multisport athlete. She is a two-guard and point guard on the basketball court, while on the softball field, she plays in the right field. As a member of the track team, she is part of the 4×100 and 4×200 relays.

While she has had a lot of guidance along the way, Serenity has also had to put in her share of the work in order to grow and get better. 

“In order to be successful, I have to have the motivation to spend more time in the gym,” she stated. “My brother takes the time out to train me so sometimes I have to go early in the morning or late at night to get my workouts in. Also my teammates push me to work harder and be better.”

Though she has enjoyed some great moments over her career, Golightly has also had some fun moments with her teammates and coaches. As she looks back, there is one moment of celebration that may have been a little too crazy.

“During my freshman year, I hit three consecutive three-pointers, making the other team call a time out,” she recalled. “I ran to the bench and jumped, one of our assistant coaches caught me but tripped over another player’s foot and half the team fell.”

Along with sports, Serenity is also a member of the National Honor Society.