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02/06/2019 11:00 PMSalmi Miller has been a pleasant surprise for the Valley Regional girls’ basketball team this season. Only a freshman, Salmi recently earned a spot in Valley’s starting lineup. Salmi gives the Warriors some length in the post and is having an impact on a squad that just clinched its spot in the playoffs.
After beginning the year as a JV player, Salmi worked her way into the varsity ranks. Salmi learned Valley’s schemes and built the skills that are making her an asset in the Warriors’ starting five. She also received plenty of encouragement along the way.
“I think getting to start comes from a lot of hard work. My teammates are really supportive and encouraging,” Salmi says. “I was nervous at first, but everyone was really supportive, and it really helped.”
Salmi felt a few jitters during her first game as a starter. Valley suited up against Old Saybrook with a chance to solidify berths in the Shoreline Conference and Class M State tournaments. Salmi and company claimed a 54-44 victory as she soaked up the feeling with her fellow Warriors.
“I was really nervous, but as the game went on, I calmed down,” says Salmi, who had two points and a steal in the win. “It’s obviously my first time making states. It was really exciting when we won, and the whole team was cheering. We were all really happy for all the seniors, too. It’s just really great.”
Salmi is a Chester resident who attends the Marine Science Magnet School in Groton. She’s currently studying biology, integrated sciences, as well as marine studies at the school. Salmi recently moved to Chester after having attended Haddam-Killingworth Middle School, where she competed against many of her current teammates. Salmi adjusted quickly to playing for Valley Regional and credits everyone for being so accommodating.
“I moved last year, so all these girls were new to me this year,” Salmi says. “I think in the beginning of the year, I was nervous coming onto a team with all these girls I used to play against, but they were really friendly and welcoming. I have a lot of friends now from the team.”
Prior to this year, Salmi had always been a guard. However, since Valley has a plethora of guards, Salmi was moved into the post this season. Salmi believes that her skillset suits her well down low in the post.
“I was a guard before this season, so being in the post was new to me this year. I think being a post player that’s able to shoot is helpful. Moving the ball around as a passer is also helpful,” says Salmi, who’s 5-foot-7. “I think it’s a bit tougher on defense, but you have to work hard regardless of where you are. I’m usually down low to get the ball and push it to the guards and get it up the floor.”
Head Coach Geoff Konstan has been impressed with what Salmi has accomplished in a short span of time. Konstan likes the versatility that Salmi brings to the Warriors and says she’s a cerebral player who picks up on things easily.
“Salmi can dribble out of pressure, and she has a nice jump shot. She’s a fast learner, listens intently, and soaks it all up,” Konstan says. “She’s worked so hard and learned so quickly. Her upside is colossal, and she’s just a great kid.”
Salmi appreciates the opportunity that she’s receiving at Valley Regional, as well as everyone who’s helped her get there. Salmi says that her parents, Christine and David, are a big part of her athletic life.
“I really want to thank my teammates and coaches for being so welcoming and supportive,” says Salmi. “I also want to thank my parents for being there and getting me everywhere. If not for them, I wouldn’t be able to do any of this.”