Triple-Impact Competitor® Finalist, Class of 2016

Tampa Preparatory School
Tampa, FL

Vote For Erykah

Student Athlete Profile

Erykah Tharpe is a basketball player from Tampa Preparatory High School. She understands that leadership looks different depending on the situation. “Every person responses differently to different situations, so getting to know my team better I can better understand how to handle their tough situations. I approach each person differently, and when they are struggling I do my best to bring them up. During Headmasters challenge, one of the biggest rivalry games of this year, our team, wasn’t doing to well. Instead of lashing out on my teammates because that’s what captains do, I told them to try their best and hustle harder and I work on that myself to pick up the slack. Being a leader means taking on responsibilities for those who are around you, even if it isn’t the easiest thing to do.”

Erykah’s coach sees the example set by her leadership. “Despite having to visit the trainer’s office before most practice due to an ailing foot, Erykah was always on time for the start of practice getting her teammates through a functional warm-up. Leaders do not make excuses for being late to practice, whether it’s an ailment or off-court situations. Erykah understands her behavior is contagious, and makes sure she is a model leader for the following underclassmen to emulate. Paramount to a successful and consistent program is having individuals like Erykah to perpetuate the desired ideals, culture, and work ethic.”

High School: Tampa Preparatory High School, Tampa, FL 

Twitter Handle: @_erykahmonique

Instagram Name: @_erykahmonique

Favorite Team: Los Angeles Lakers 

Coach You Admire: Doc Rivers

Favorite Athlete: Kobe Bryant 

Favorite Inspirational Sports Movie: Coach Carter, Love and Basketball

Favorite Quote From “Elevating Your Game” by Jim Thompson: “If you have to choose between them, effort is more important than talent because effort over time leads to skill and ability.”