Krystal Drain will continue hitting the hardwood as a member of the University of Manitoba Bisons.

The Portage Collegiate Institute star in both volleyball and basketball, among other sports, will hoop it up for coach Pam Danis in Winnipeg beginning this fall.

Drain said she first met the coaching staff in a bid to improve her skills, but eventually impressed the head honchos so much, they wanted to keep her around.

"I've always wanted to play basketball at a higher level since Grade 10 or 11," said Drain. "I never really thought I was good enough to play university, so maybe I was thinking college.

"I just went to U of M to get better, get more experience. I went to some of their camps, some of their day camps. Eventually I went to Wisconsin with them three weeks ago and she (Danis) asked me two weeks later to be on her team.

"It was unbelievable. All my dreams have come true, making that team."

Drain said she understands her role as a rookie heading onto the team, but like the way the made the team, hopes to work her way into an opportunity for more responsibility.

"I think I will be on the bench for the first few games, but that's totally fine," said Drain. "I'll be a rookie, it's like I'm starting in Grade 9 again. I'll be the one to cheer on the other players but honestly, you've just gotta keep your spirit up.

"Eventually, I will start playing. I've got to work harder than the rest of the team to prove myself, but I can definitely do that, and I will."

For more, please see Friday's edition of the Portage Daily Graphic.

dan.falloon@sunmedia.ca

Twitter: PDGdfalloon