For Durant sophomore Riley Standifer, leadership isn’t measured by age or experience — it’s reflected in how she treats people on and off the field.
“To be an uplifting teammate and better athlete,” Standifer said when asked about her personal goals this season. That mindset has become a defining part of how she approaches both practices and games.
Playing right outside back, Standifer takes pride in her defensive awareness and effort. “When reading a defense, I tend to look for gaps and see if they’re shifting,” she said. “Hard work in the weight room and on the field” has been central to her improvement and to the team’s overall progress this season.
“This year, our mindsets as a team have been better,” she said. “As a team, one of our goals is to be more athletic and self-disciplined.”
The Lady Lions’ focus on unity and consistency has created a renewed sense of purpose. “The team morale has been good,” Standifer said. “We are all excited for the new season.” That positivity, she believes, has fueled early signs of growth and energy both during training and under the lights on game nights.
One of Durant’s biggest advantages, according to Standifer, is how well players connect on the field. “I think one of our biggest strengths as a team is our ability to communicate,” she said. “Something that outsiders may not know about this team is that we all have different talents we bring to the table.”
Faith also guides her approach to competition. “When I step on the field, I like to have a positive mindset,” she said. “I like to remind myself that whatever happens is in God’s hands.”
Standifer’s favorite memory reflects her early impact on the program. “My favorite memory is getting the captain band as a freshman,” she said. The moment, she explained, reminded her that encouragement and leadership can come from anyone, regardless of class year.
Looking ahead, Standifer keeps her focus on what matters most. “I would like my legacy to be that I was a nice person who was encouraging and always tried to help,” she said.
