Player Profile: Allison Yoder

By Nik Hogan

Knightly News Reporter

nikolai.hadleyhogan@mymail.centralpenn.edu

Allison Yoder, a player for the Central Penn College women’s basketball team, has been involved in athletics for as long as she can remember. Growing up in Elliotsburg, Pennsylvania., sports were a focal point in her life, with basketball becoming her primary passion. Originally a multisport athlete, Yoder played soccer, basketball and track throughout her school career. It wasn’t until seventh grade, when her height drew her to focus on basketball, that she fell in love with the game.

Yoder’s athletic story is filled with accolades and achievements that showcase her versatility across different sports. During her time at West Perry High School, she lettered each year in soccer, basketball and track, earning defensive MVP for soccer and MVP for track in 2022. However, the crowning achievement came when she was named Female Athlete of the Year at West Perry High School in 2023.

Her time at Central Penn has only added to her growing list of honors. Following the 2023-24 basketball season, Yoder was awarded Rookie of the Year and earned a spot on the Eastern States Athletic Conference (ESAC) First Team All-Conference, a true symbol of her impact on the court in her first year on campus.

While Yoder has primarily avoided significant setbacks in her college career, a notable challenge came in her junior year of high school when she twisted both ankles, a minor injury that required rest and physical therapy. Even now, she diligently wears ankle braces before games to ensure she is always in the best condition possible.

“As an athlete, it’s important to take care of your body so you can perform to the best of your ability, 100% of the time,” she said.

Yoder draws much of her inspiration from her father, who was also a high school athlete at West Perry and went on to play sports in college. His enthusiasm and dedication sparked Yoder’s own love for competition and physical challenges.

“His engagement with sports first sparked my interest, and after trying out, I understood the appeal,” Yoder said, noting that her father’s influence remains the most significant.

As a returning player for the Central Penn Lady Knights, Yoder takes pride in her role as a leader on the team. She recognizes the importance of setting a positive example for new players and emphasizes the need for a welcoming and supportive environment.

“I always strive to be patient and guide my teammates,” she pointed out.

Her bond with teammates and coaches has grown into a family relationship built on respect and understanding—qualities that help them communicate and perform effectively on the court.

Though basketball has been a significant part of her life, Yoder’s long-term focus is on her career path after graduation, with plans to become a certified public accountant. She admits that playing college basketball wasn’t initially part of her plan until Central Penn offered her the opportunity.

“Playing has been such a blessing, and I wouldn’t trade these moments for anything,” she shared.

While her focus after college will shift toward her professional goals, Yoder hasn’t ruled out basketball and hopes to remain involved in the game, perhaps by joining a small league in the future.

Yoder is a talented athlete and a dedicated leader with a clear vision for her future. Her passion for the game and commitment to her team ensure she will leave a lasting legacy at Central Penn and beyond.