By Haley Mitchell Godwin

Highland Home School’s JaNya Foster made history Nov. 8 when she scored her 1,000th career point in a faceoff against Hale County during an Orange Beach tournament. Foster has continued to excel, with her total career points now soaring well over 1,300 after back-to-back 40-point games. 

The senior guard was honored during Highland Home’s first home game of the season Dec. 17 held against Brantley. The Lady Squadron celebrated the special occasion with a commanding 50-25 win over the Bulldogs , a testament to Foster’s ability to rally her team toward greatness.

“Reaching 1,000 points made me feel proud of the hard work and dedication I’ve put into my basketball career,” Foster said. “It’s a milestone that inspires me and hopefully other players too. My plans after high school are to continue my basketball career and become an LPN. My advice to younger players is: ‘It’s not about how good you are; it’s about how good you want to be.”

Foster credits God, her parents, John and Bobbie Foster, and Coach GeVonne Cooper, as her biggest influences.

“Their guidance, encouragement and belief in me have shaped the player I am today,” said Foster. “Dedication and staying focused are lessons I have learned from them that will stick with me for life. I want to thank them as well as Jenice Foster, Jessica June and Coach Justin Cope for taking their time and getting this special event together for me. I love all my gifts, especially the custom ball made by Jessica June.”

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” she added, quoting Philippians 4:13.

GeVonne Cooper, head basketball coach for the Lady Squadron, has worked closely with Foster since she was a seventh grader and praised her for her relentless work ethic and humility.

“JaNya has spent thousands of hours in the gym and on the court perfecting her craft,” said Cooper. “She’s a coach’s dream. I have never met a player that is so humble yet lethal on the court. Watching her grow into a vocal leader and an example, both on and off the court, for younger players has been incredible. She leaves a legacy that proves hard work pays off.”

In back-to-back games this season, Foster delivered remarkable 40-point performances, demonstrating her scoring prowess and ability to dominate games. Fans and opponents alike have been left in awe of her sharp shooting, court vision and unrelenting drive.

“JaNya is such a sweet and humble young lady and I could not be more proud of her,” said Jessica June, whose daughter is one of Foster’s teammates. “When you are a ball parent, you love the other kids like they are your own. So, when we found out she was being honored for her 1,000th point, we knew we had to make it special. The parents, team, and Coach Cooper all came together to make this celebration happen. I hope she enjoyed every moment – especially with the win that night!”

The lady Squadron’s next opportunity on the court will be in the Pea River Tournament to be held in Elba Dec. 27 and 28. 

Photos courtesy of the Squadron Network