By Jadon Frank

Freshman point guard Lucas Mannes came to Briercrest with the goal of having an impact on a winning team, and he has been working hard to make both this goal a reality.

“I wanted to play college basketball at a school that could compete for a national championship, as well as pursue God in a Godly (as opposed to a worldly) environment,” Mannes said. “Briercrest was the perfect option for these two things, and the classes that are offered were what I wanted as well.”

Head coach Rod Adrian has been impressed with the impact that the BA Humanities major has had so far this season.

“Lucas continues to shine as one of the top freshmen in the ACAC,” Adrian said. “He’s the first off our bench and adds a fantastic ability to score and push the pace on offense.  His control of the ball and solid outside shooting are bested only by his assist to turnover ratio.  These are unique skills as a freshman, and he will continue to improve as he demonstrates a quality work ethic.” 

Beyond just his athletic ability, Mannes wants to let his actions speak for themselves.

“I’m a natural leader,” Mannes said. “I enjoy being in a position of leadership but I am light-hearted and enjoy making fun of myself from time to time. I compete hard, and have my teammate’s backs until the end. I’m a good all-around player but I have a lot to work on.”

Coach Adrian has already seen growth in the Chilliwack, BC native since he made the move over the mountains and into Caronport this fall.

“I look forward to great things from Lucas as a player and developing leader,” Adrian said. “This has also been a great experience witnessing Lucas grow spiritually.  He is a pastor’s kid, so he has a firm foundation, but we are seeing his faith grow and knowledge expand as a student-athlete here at Briercrest.”

Mannes has really enjoyed learning from his older teammates this season.

“Every single guy is here to grow in their walk with God,” the point guard said. “We’re in this thing together, and our common relationships with God allow us to be tighter knit than other teams that we play. Also, the upper classmen are amazing basketball players that I can learn and grow from in my freshman year.”

Mannes wants to succeed both athletically and academically while at Briercrest.

“I would like to achieve a 3.5 GPA this year,” Mannes said. “My goal for this year athletically is to be the best freshman player in the ACAC.”

“Long-term I want to be a lawyer, but I’d definitely like to do some missions work before I start working,” Mannes said.  “If I could do one thing to make the world better it would be to preach the Word to those who haven’t heard it.”

Mannes’s hard work attitude comes from his father who, “is always there for me and speaks into my life.”

“My Dad gave me the best advice I have ever received,” Mannes said. “He said, ‘The hard working road is a lonely one.’ If I could give advice to someone I would tell them to never give up on your dreams and work hard to achieve them.”