by By Dan Ninham, contributing writer
Hailey Long, 17, is Navajo and attends Gallup High School, Gallup NM. She plays basketball and volleyball.
Hailey is a champion. She is a member of the New Mexico 4A state championship and NABI championship teams. She was also voted MVP in both basketball and volleyball for the regular season.
This is a YouTube video clip of #40 Hailey Long at the 2021 New Mexico 4A State Championship game: https://youtu.be/0NLZF7PlqEw
COVID has been a challenge in a global sense but also affects immediate and extended families. “The pandemic has taken a lot of my family members. Not only did it hurt my family, but also hurt my physical and mental health. I’ve learned lots of things for me to overcome that. I’ve spent more than I ever have with my family and got a lot closer with them.”
Hailey believes family and coaches emphasize the importance of gaining education before being an athlete.
“Coach Todd McBroom has been a great mentor by helping me mature in the game of basketball by setting goals and helping me accomplish those goals,” said Hailey.
“Coach Mike Butkovich has played a major role in developing the player I am today,” said Hailey. “He has dedicated his own time to make my team and I strive each day. He pushed me beyond my limits to be a better individual and a team player, on and off the court.”
“My AAU Coach JP Rael has been a great supporter,” said Hailey. “He has taken me out of my comfort zone by making play different positions on the court.”
“Coach Eric Benedick is probably the coach that really encourages me that I have potential to play at the next level,” said Hailey. “He has helped me get exposure to college coaches to come and watch me play.”
“Coach Joe Randall has been my coach since elementary school,” said Hailey. “He has put me in teams and tournaments at a young age to develop skills and fundamentals. Coach Joe continues to support and guide me today.”
“Coach Lorena Morris has been my volleyball coach for five years,” said Hailey. “When I started volleyball I was not familiar with the game. She taught me all about volleyball and also motivates me. On a regular basic, Coach Morris checks on me makes sure I am doing good at home and in school.”
Photo Credit: Del Ray Photography
