Almost every person in their lifetime battles through some type of injury or adversity, but one of the players from the Northern Michigan University Women’s Basketball team is going on a comeback season from a career-threatening injury after nearly two years.
After sitting out last season due to knee injuries and setbacks, senior guard Chloe Tompkins is motivated and ready to be back on the court this season. Her original injuries included a torn ACL, MCL, meniscus and a dislocated kneecap following infections post surgery.
“I’m pretty happy with how the team has grown and just me as an individual,” Tompkins said. “We have a strong senior class this year and have high expectations such as winning the GLIAC North and we’re in good position to do so.”
Majoring in public relations, the Dousman, Wisconsin native said she felt emotional when she was in the training room and sidelines awaiting results. But she was pleased with how the younger players stepped up in her absence, she said.
“I took a break away from the team last season just to collect myself,” Tompkins said. “Since I have been back on the sidelines, I definitely have learned the game from the mental side of things.”
Although the list of injuries took a toll on her emotionally, Tompkins said she received a huge amount of encouragement from the team, despite being told she may never play again.
“When I went down with my injury, some people said that I may never play again. It felt like having part of your life being taken away,” Tompkins said. “With the support of coach Mattson, my team and my friends, I just feel like if a team or athlete is going through an injury, just ask for help because it’s something that happens and it’s nothing to be ashamed of.”
In her free time, Tompkins is usually studying for her PR degree, and even accepted a PR internship in Arkansas last summer. She also enjoys art, hanging out with her friends and exploring Marquette culture.
Tompkins will be playing on the Berry Events Center court this weekend as the ’Cats host the Minnesota State University-Mankato Mavericks Friday, Nov. 16 and the Minnesota State University-Moorhead Dragons Sunday, Nov. 18.
“By being here for five years and having a really good relationship with coach [Mattson] and learning the system, I’m definitely ready to be back out there,” Tompkins enthusiastically said.
