Nici Gilday Reflects on her Experiences On and Off the Court

Nici Gilday Reflects on her Experiences On and Off the Court

Written by Student Assistant Linnea Lico '15

Nici Gilday (NG) discusses with Santa Clara Broncos (SCB) her experiences attending SCU and playing for the women's basketball team. Gilday shares her unique perspective as a native local to Santa Clara. She also delves into her experience working at Bronco summer camp.

SCB: Why did you choose to work the summer camp this year? 

NG: I wanted to work the summer camp this year because it had such a great experience the last time I worked it. I really like the way the coaches have structured their camp. The kids love it and it is fun to be a part of. 

SCB: Given that you are from San Jose originally, what are some advantages of going to school so close to home? 

NG: Going to school close to home gives me the best of both worlds. I still get to live on campus and be independent, but at the same time my family is close by so I get to see them every week. It is also awesome to have them at every game. 

SCB: What are some disadvantages? 

NG: A disadvantage could be that I do always have the crutch to fall back on of having them there. Instead of having to figure some things out on my own, I can rely on them. 

SCB: Who or what do you think was your biggest influence in deciding to play basketball? 

NG: My biggest influence in deciding to play basketball is difficult to pin point since for as long as I can remember I knew I wanted to play in college. I had great coaches and supportive parents that really allowed for it to happen though. 

SCB: How does playing basketball affect your life off the court? 

NG: Basketball affects my life off the court in every way. It is hard to separate life as on and off the court since basketball seems to be a part of everything. However, most of all it has provided me the opportunity to learn important life lessons and be able to earn a top notch degree from an amazing university. Being able to do those things while getting to play the game I love, it doesn't get much better than that.