Dow’s Mantyla signs with SVSU

by Cory Butzin

From the time she was little, Taylor Mantyla knew that she wanted to play basketball against elite competition, and now she’ll get her chance.

After four impressive years on the Dow High varsity basketball squad, Mantyla has signed a letter of intent to continue her basketball career at Saginaw Valley State University. She and her family celebrated the signing with school administrators Tuesday morning at Dow High.

“It feels really great considering all of the trials that I’ve been through,” she said. “It’s really good to get his opportunity. It’s what I wanted for my whole life and it’s awesome.”

Mantyla will join the Cardinal program after a senior year that saw her average 12.8 points, 4.5 assists, and 2.2 steals in leading the Chargers to the district championship.

“Taylor had a great four year career at Dow and I enjoyed coaching her all four years,” said Dow coach Bob Wellman. “Her overall game improved so much this year. She not only was our best pure shooter, but she distributed the ball better than everyone.”

Not only will Mantyla be taking her athletic talents to SVSU, but also academic ambitions as she seeks to major in special education.

While it is a happy time, it also brings with it a measure of sadness leaving behind friends and teammates.

“I know I’m going to be close to my teammates in college, but in high schools it’s different,” Mantyla said. “It’s a different environment, it’s a different feeling. My teammates in high school are like my sisters, and I don’t know if I’m ever going to find that again.”

Wellman sees Mantyla’s career continuing to grow and shine at Saginaw Valley.

“She should have some nice success playing at the next level,” he said. “She has the athletic ability, the physical strength, the shooting ability and size to play and be an important player for her team. I look forward to watching her play.”