Westmoreland athletes of the week: Ligonier Valley’s Marrek Paola, Greensburg Salem’s Megan Kallock

By: HSSN Staff
Wednesday, December 13, 2017 | 4:12 PM

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Marrek Paola

School: Ligonier Valley

Sport: Basketball

Class: Junior

Claim to fame: Paola recorded a double-double with 36 points and 16 rebounds to lead Ligonier Valley (1-1) to an 86-63 win over Frazier at the Derry tournament Friday. Paola scored 25 points for Ligonier Valley in 84-77 loss to Greensburg Salem on Saturday, and he added 36 in a win over Purchase Line on Tuesday.

“We started off pretty strong, but we struggled a little bit against Greensburg Salem,” he said. “If we play the way that we think we can, we should do pretty well throughout the rest of the year.”

What did you work on during the offseason to better your game?

Mostly being able to get to my open spot and moving without the ball. I have been working on my shot. I was just getting in a rhythm and getting ready for the season to start.

What's it like to play alongside a guard like Michael Marinchak?

It's really nice to know you have a point guard that is going to get you the ball when you hit the open spot.

What does the team need to do as you start the season short-handed with injuries to Jackson Daugherty and Aaron Tutino?

I feel like we have enough depth and talent to cover their spots. We just need everyone to step up their game a little bit more to cover their spots.

What does the team need to do to make a deeper run in the playoffs?

We were on a pretty good winning streak last year. But if we come in with the same mentality through the end of the season, including the Heritage Conference, and stay strong through the playoffs we should make a pretty deep run.

What is your favorite holiday?

Christmas. I love winter and I get to spend time with family. It's a nice break to get away from the warm weather. Whenever winter hits, you know it's basketball season, so that's the best part.

Megan Kallock

School: Greensburg Salem

Sport: Basketball

Class: Junior

Claim to fame: Kallock scored 40 points, including a 24-for-29 effort from the free-throw line, to lead Greensburg Salem (1-1) to a 73-38 win over McGuffey at its host tournament Friday. Kallock led the Golden Lions with 18 points in a 58-44 loss to Ligonier Valley on Saturday.

“Our main goal is to play hard from the start,” she said. “We are all working together since we don't have much height. We will play man-to-man and press, and that's how we will win a lot of games.”

What's it been like to play for new head coach Rick Klimchock?

He has had us in the gym sine June, which is really helping. I think that's what made us come out strong against McGuffey.

What was the biggest lesson you learned from last season?

Last season, we struggled with scoring. We are just playing basketball, and we keep moving the ball. We can't panic and slow down. We just have to go out and play basketball.

What does the team need to do to make a deeper run in the playoffs?

I think we need to play hard and hustle. No team can beat us down the court. We need to be the most hardworking and aggressive team. We need to do all the little things. I think that will help us win.

What is your favorite sport, basketball or softball?

Basketball. I've played it since I was 6 years old. I look forward to the season every year. Softball is too slow for me. My dad has coached basketball since I was a baby so it has made me love it more.

What is your favorite movie?

“Miracle.” I think it just shows the most underrated team can make it far.

— Andrew John

Tags: Greensburg Salem, Ligonier Valley