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Godfrey to play two sports at Hastings

Creek Valley senior Lane Godfrey has comitted to play basketball and golf at Hastings College this fall.

Godfrey was the Storm basketball team's leader in several statistical categories this past season and a qualifier for the NSAA Boys State Golf Tournament last spring.

On the court Godfrey was tops for Creek Valley in scoring (15.6 ppg), rebounds (8.0 rpg), assists (3.9 apg) and steals (3.2 spg). On the links Godfrey filled the number one slot for Creek Valley in 2013 and was a threat to break 80 with every start.

"I had a few opportunities where I could have played one sport but I was drawn to Hastings because there was the chance to play golf and basketball," said Godfrey.

After being signed for basketball a couple of weeks ago, Godfrey recently learned he will also be allowed to golf. He signed his letter of intent to play the second sport only within the past few days.

Now that he has taken on two sports in addition a full college-course load, he recognizes the challenge that lies ahead of him.

"My dad was speechless," said Godfrey of his parents learning of his two-sport intentions. "My mom gave me a speech about working hard."

The Hastings basketball program has been led to a strong season by first year Head Coach Bill Gavers. The Broncos have so far gone 21-10 overall and 14-6 in the Division II Great Plains Athletic Conference. Breaking into that lineup would be a challenge for any player.

"It's a great opportunity for Lane. The competition will be great," said Storm Head Basketball Coach Roger Behrends. "He'll improve every day playing at that level and against that kind of competition."

Godfrey also recognizes the college game will be a big challenge.

"It's a little nerve wracking," said Godfrey of his two-sport status. "Speed-wise, college basketball will be a step up. I will look to distribute the ball. Assists look better than points."

That Godfrey may one day be a solid assist man on the Broncos in years to come would be consistent with his play on the Storm. In games where he did not have his best shot, he often found ways to get others the ball.

"His senior year he really led us well," said Behrends. "He involved the other kids really well. I don't think we could have won as many games without his leadership."

Though Gavers is new to the college level, the long-time high school coach seems to have had little difficulty translating his success to the college level. The Hastings alumnus coached Grand Island Central Catholic High School for 22 years. His record there of 421-127 includes 12 trips to the state tournament and a state championship in 2000. As the Tennis coach at GICC he guided the team to five state championships.

The golf squad will be headed up this season by Lloyd McIntyre for his first season at Hastings.

Golf has a split season with a fall and spring season which could create schedule conflicts for Godfrey. But McIntyre has made it clear that he will be lenient with Godfrey when there are conflicts. During one of his visits to Hastings, Godfrey had an opportunity to experience some college-level golf from the fairway.

"I got to play with the team for a few holes," said Godfrey. "I was a little nervous - these were college golfers and I'm in high school. But it was fun."

As one of only two seniors on the 2014 Storm team and a veteran of states he will be looked upon to be a team leader in his final season. But it's a position not new Godfrey. It's a role Creek Valley Golf Coach Cyd Hanson feels very comfortable with.

"I see him as a leader on the golf team," said Hanson. "He is willing to share his knowledge and experience with the younger players. I will definitely miss him next year."

 

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