Westmoreland athletes of the week: Ligonier Valley’s Michael Marinchak, Derry’s Destiny Roberts

By: HSSN Staff
Tuesday, January 22, 2019 | 4:42 PM

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Michael Marinchak

School: Ligonier Valley

Sport: Basketball

Class: Junior

Claim to fame: Marinchak tied a school record with 44 points to lead Ligonier Valley (15-1, 9-0) to a 91-60 win over Purchase Line in District 6 Heritage Conference action Jan. 16. Dick Knupp has held the school record since 1958.

“It was a great team win. They didn’t know I had that many points, and they kept getting me the ball all night. I loved the support we were getting from the student section the whole night,” Marinchak said.

What does it mean to you to tie the school record?

It means a lot. It was one of my buddy’s grandpa who set the record. It was very exciting to me as an individual

What is it like to play alongside Marrek Paola?

It makes things a lot easier. Teams are looking to double team Marrek. He looks to dish and find the open guy for the wide open 3.

What did the team learn from the early-season loss to Shade?

We learned lot to not get too hype about ourselves. We can’t overlook anybody and not shy away from our style of ball. We were playing as individuals. A lot of it was my fault, and we got to learn to play more like a team.

If you weren’t playing basketball, what sport would you play?

Baseball. I’ve been playing since Little League. It’s my second favorite sport. I love being a pitcher. I don’t really like hitting, but I like pitching.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Dubai. They had nothing and now everyone wants to be there. I’m a city guy, and I would love the city atmosphere.

Destiny Roberts

School: Derry

Sport: Basketball

Class: Senior

Claim to fame: Roberts, who is averaging 12.6 points and 12.4 rebounds, scored 28 points, and had 18 rebounds, four steals and four blocks to lead Derry (6-8, 4-4) to a 59-34 win over Valley in Section 3-3A on Jan. 14. Roberts scored 15 points, and had 16 rebounds, six blocks and three steals in a 53-41 loss to Carlynton on Jan. 17.

“The season has been a lot better this year than last year. I’ve had more of a leadership role this year. I know this is it since it’s my last year,” Roberts said.

What are your college plans for next year?

I plan on playing basketball. I’m looking at Allegheny, LaRoche, Marietta, Point Park and Saint Vincent. I plan on being an ophthalmologist so I’d like to go to a very pre-med program. At the end of the day, education comes first.

Which sport do you like more, basketball, volleyball or track?

Basketball. I’ve been playing since sixth grade. There is never a time I’m on the court and I’m not having fun. I love the other sports, but basketball is my favorite.

What has been the biggest difference this year from last year?

We got a new coach, which was a change. We are all friends and very close. The chemistry on the court is way better this year.

How has your game grown this year?

Last year, I was just shooting and dribbling up the court. This year, I’m trying to do everything I can since I’m the only senior. My team is young, and I’m trying to be a good example for my team.

What is your favorite movie?

“Stand By Me.” It’s a classic. It’s both funny and sad at times. It’s just all around a good movie.

— Andrew John

Andrew John is a freelance writer.

Tags: Derry Area, Ligonier Valley