Salutatorian values balance in achieving objectives

BY SCOTT AKANEWICH STAFF WRITER

When Abbie Billingsley steps onto the campus of Texas A&M University in the fall, she will suddenly have a bit more free time to do as she pleases.

Billingsley has spent the past four years as part of Liberty Hill’s girls’ basketball program, but life as an Aggie will no longer consist of anything more than perhaps intramural hoops for the Class of 2023’s salutatorian.

However, she credits the game for helping her achieve her status.

“I’m so glad I played basketball all four years of high school,” said Billingsley, who was an integral part of Lady Panthers teams that advanced to the Class 5A state playoffs regional finals the past two seasons.

“It provided me with learning leadership and teamwork and lasting friendships.”

Billingsley attributes balance as being the critical factor in accomplishing her goals.

“Time management is a big thing for me,” she said. “So, whenever I have time, I study and that allows me to find the time to be able to enjoy the things that are important to me.”

According to Billingsley, though, the idea of taking it easy just a bit petitively and walk on to the team.”

Like any college freshman, the adjustments outside the classroom will loom just