Hamilton Southeastern High School senior basketball player Taya Reimer is leaving her legacy on the hall of fame.
The 6-2 forward was recently selected to the McDonald’s All-American team. Of the 814 nominees, two female athletes from Central Indiana were selected to play in the games, which started April 3.
But Reimer didn’t stop there. She was also awarded the Morgan Wootten award, McDonald’s top All-American female basketball player.
She is the first female Player of the Year ever to hail from Indiana.
“It’s been really exciting it’s such a blessing to be on the McDonald’s team and be the player of the year. My dad played for the McDonald’s team in 1991, so it’s been a dream of mine,” said Reimer. “It’s really just a dream come true for me.”
Her father, Ben Davis, was a 1991 McDonald’s All-American from Oak Hill Academy in Virginia. Reimer and Davis are the first father and daughter duo to play in the national game for seniors.
Reimer admits her dad offered his life experiences as a teaching tool, but he was not pushing his dreams onto her.
“He has helped coach me along the way and he did it well. Some parents kind of push their kids too hard. He really stepped back and listened. He’s supportive,” she said. “Hopefully I have a good collegiate career and play professionally like he did. It just means a lot to me for him to be proud of me and to follow in his footsteps.”
Davis also helped Reimer with her college decision. She will be attending the University of Notre Dame this fall.
“Academics is the main reason why I chose Notre Dame. I want to push myself. I’m ready to go in and work hard. They will be like my second family. I’m really excited,” she said.
At her McDonald’s All-American Send Off event last Friday, Hamilton Southeastern assistant athletic director Jim Self said he couldn’t be more impressed with her choice.
“She’s chosen a place that will make her a better person,” Self said. “She’s not only an athlete, but an unbelievable student. I don’t think she’s chosen the easy way out with this selection.”
Reimer’s awards are based on athletics, academics and community service. Reimer carries a 3.4 GPA and volunteers throughout the community with youth.
“She has no choice of being a role model. Just whether to be a good or bad one. She’s the role model of my kids. She sets a good example in her school and in the community. It’s been a blessing to have her,” Self said.
Reimer has been playing basketball since the first grade. She’s thankful to family and friends who supported her. They’ve all helped her reach her dreams.
“I’m just so thankful,” she laughs. “This is something I’ve dreamed about forever. I am just trying to enjoy one moment at a time.”
