Nick Devries in the Sophomore Spotlight

Sophomore Nick Devries has been highlighted for November’s issue of the Lakers sophomore spotlight.  Devries is a current member of the men’s basketball team, majoring in Athletic Training at Finger Lakes Community College (FLCC).

Devries coach, Richard Jones, nominated him for the spotlight this month.  The Lakers sophomore spotlight is meant to highlight outstanding student-athletes who demonstrate the values of good moral character, leadership, integrity, and teamwork in all aspects of their lives. 

Devries chose originally to attend FLCC because he had aspirations to major in game design and Finger Lakes CC was one of the few colleges in the area offering such a degree. However, after his first year at FLCC, he discovered his true passion for athletic training. 

“I love the idea of athletic training and sports medicine,” said Devries.  “I want to be one of those people who help athletes get ready for their big games and assist them in their recovery, if necessary.”

Devries stated he likes the small town feel at Finger Lakes Community College the most. “It reminds me of my hometown. “It’s like a close knit community where everyone knows everyone and it is very comforting.”  

During his time as a student-athlete at Finger Lakes CC, Devries has learned the importance of responsibility and how to work more efficiently.  Balancing the responsibilities of a student and an athlete at the college level has helped him mature as an individual. 

When asked what he liked most about being a student-athlete at FLCC, he stated, “I love having the ability to represent FLCC and showing the community that it is a great institution. I also enjoy the comradery that our team has been able to build with each other.”

In additions to his contributions with the men’s basketball team, Devries works in the IT help center providing various services to students, faculty, and staff. 

“Nick exemplifies what the basketball program strives to promote; a hard-working individual who has improved his skill level immensely since joining the program,” said head coach, Richard Jones. “In addition, Nick is a model teammate, who places the team's success over his own.”

As Devries looks back at his time at FLCC, he is most proud of his ability to overcome the difficulties of switching majors after his freshman year.  “When I switched my major from game design to athletic training, my GPA dropped significantly. However, with hard work and determination, I was able to overcome the hump and get my grades back to where they should be,” said Devries.

Upon his graduation from FLCC in the spring of 2017, Nick looks to transfer to a four year institution to continue his studies in athletic training.  He is currently looking at the University of Buffalo, SUNY Brockport, and SUNY IT. 

When asked what he would like his legacy to be when he left Finger Lakes, Nick said, “I would like to be remembered as the guy that had a lot of respect for everyone around him and someone who put his whole heart into helping the team succeed.”