Warrior Spotlight: Regan Garman

Feature article

If you see a streak of lightning with gold hair running down the basketball court, that would be one of Union’s soon-to-be graduating seniors, Regan Garman. Regan has played basketball all the years she’s been at Union, with the exception of her time spent as a student missionary. This year, she’s been named one of the women’s basketball team captains. Her leadership and cheerfulness on the court are invaluable, as she consistently strives to do her best and build up her teammates. “I love being in community and sharing a common goal, a common purpose, and working together towards that goal,” Regan said. “And ultimately, we’re playing for a team of one.” 

Regan grew up in sports. Her basketball career began in middle school and continued through her high school years at Campion Academy, where she was named captain during her junior and senior years. She participated in Union’s annual high school basketball tournaments, so by the time she graduated and chose to continue her education at Union, joining the Warrior basketball team was a no-brainer. Through the years, Regan has been a dependable and vital player. During her junior year, Regan joined student missions and was placed in Ponhepi, Micronesia, to teach at an elementary school. She said this experience has changed her forever, and really helped her grow in God and learn to trust Him. Even though she missed a season of basketball in the States, Regan was able to coach the kids' basketball team, bringing her passion across oceans. 

This year, Regan’s taken on the role of point guard and primary ball handler for the women’s team, and her teammates look to her for guidance on the court. When asked about this being her last season, Regan said, “It’s sad. This is my last organized team sport. It’s characterized me for so long, but I hope to continue to invest my passion later one day, whether that’s by coaching or watching my future kids when they play sports.” Even though her time in the sport is ending, Regan shared that she is taking the lessons she’s learned from her coaches with her as she pursues her career as an elementary school teacher. “Be where your feet are,” Regan relayed, “be comfortable being uncomfy.” Those are the pieces of advice that have stuck with her. “We grow by being pushed outside our comfort zone, and learn by being present, taking life day by day.” 

Regan’s smile and upbeat attitude are prevalent in everything that she does. Whether it’s sharing her experiences as a student missionary in front of a crowd, sinking threes on the court, or simply being in community with the people around her, Regan’s love for Jesus shines through in everything she does. Although Union is losing an awesome student and basketball player, the world is gaining an incredible teacher who is going to change lives. 

By Sami Hoffer