As Rihanna would say, Ellie Macal “work work work work work work work.”

The Cotter sophomore’s success comes from her work ethic. A typical day in the life of Ellie Macal includes waking up as early as 6 am to shoot hoops and condition at the YMCA or strength train at the Cotter weight room. Then, after school, she has a two hour basketball practice. This hard work does not go unnoticed; at her Summer volleyball and basketball camps she won the “G” award, which is given to the hardest working player.

Ellie’s peers also notice, “Ellie has one of the strongest work ethics of anyone that I know,” Maren Stewart said. 

In order to put in such hard work, a lot of motivation is required, “the outcome; to see yourself win,” Macal says is her motivation.

Macal also draws inspiration from her grandma who has MS, “but does not let it slow her down.” According to healthline.com, it is estimated that 2.3 million people live with MS worldwide, a disabling neurological condition. Seeing her grandma live with this condition has showed Macal that she should never give up.

Once Macal’s hair is up and apple slices are eaten she takes on the basketball court, volleyball court, and softball field; always working hard and never giving up.