Caitlin Ryan is not your typical 15-year-old. While many teens her age are consumed with social media and the latest fashion trends, Caitlin is making a name for herself in the world of basketball. As the youngest fully qualified statistician in the country and the first player/statto in the Women’s British Basketball League (WBBL), Caitlin has already achieved more than most people twice her age.
Caitlin’s love for basketball started at a young age when she would accompany her father, who was the General Manager of the Essex Leopards, to basketball games. She started playing basketball for the Harlow Hawks and went on to join Oaklands College in Year 7.
Her passion for statistics began when she qualified as a table official at the age of 13. During the pandemic, Caitlin started training to do stats during the “closed doors” games, which eventually led her to become a trainee last season. Her games were monitored by the stats team at the WBBL, and she officially qualified as a statto in April.
Caitlin’s dedication paid off when she made her WBBL debut for Oaklands Wolves against Essex Rebels on a Saturday afternoon. Caitlin entered the game with just over two minutes of the third period remaining and provided an assist for a three-point play with her possession. She went on to pull down two rebounds and another assist for a three-pointer in the fourth quarter. Although her efforts weren’t enough to prevent Wolves losing 86-68, Caitlin’s time on the court helped the team outscore the hosts.
Caitlin’s passion for statistics has given her a unique insight into the game. As a statto, she watches the game a lot closer than people in the stand or even while on the bench. Caitlin’s talent for statistics has already taken her to big games at the Copper Box and the WBBL Trophy event at the Essex Arena and the Hoops Fix Classic.
Caitlin’s family has been supportive of her unique interests and talents. Her father, who was once the General Manager of the Essex Leopards, has been instrumental in helping her pursue her passion for basketball and statistics. Caitlin’s achievement has not only impacted her family but also her community.
Looking to the future, Caitlin plans to attend one of the Women’s Elite Basketball Academy colleges, probably Oaklands, next year. She also plans to do the qualification to stat Lions’ European games. Caitlin will always put playing first, but her passion for statistics will undoubtedly continue to impact her future in basketball or other fields.
For parents whose children have unique interests and talents, Caitlin’s father advises them to support their children as much as they can. Caitlin’s success is proof that with hard work, dedication, and support, anything is possible.