When Chloe Crago was deciding where she was going to go to college, she knew that she wanted to pursue her education while playing the sport she loved, basketball. Hailing from Belle Fourche, South Dakota, Chloe had numerous options and offers, many of which would’ve allowed her to stay closer to home.
However, when Chloe visited Camden County College in Spring 2023, she knew where she would be attending- even if it meant being a 27-hour drive from home. Once she stepped onto campus, Chloe said it was an easy decision. The atmosphere, friendly students and staff, and the sense of community helped her decide that CCC would be where she continued her academic and athletic career.
Chloe was recently named GSAC DIII Women’s Basketball Player of the Week- the first to receive the honor in 2024. Chloe was noted for her stellar record, as she is currently the second leading scorer in the NJCAA. Chloe is not remiss on the fact that her choice to come to CCC has allowed her more opportunities to play as a first-year student compared to her friends from home who went on to four-year schools.
“I knew coming to CCC and leaving home was no small thing to do, but this helped solidify that made the right choice in coming here,” Chloe said of the recognition. “The support of my coaches, my teammates, the administrators and the College as a whole has given me a community here. It’s been really great.”
Coach Chip Reitano, is proud to have Chloe on the team.
“I wish I had 10 more players like her, she makes my job easy,” Reitano said.
Coach Chip is in his 10th season as the Women’s Head Basketball Coach at CCC, and he believes that the program’s success comes from “the way we do things.” Coach Chip and his staff prioritize improving their players confidence, trust, and building and maintaining strong relationships. The Lady Cougars are currently 10-4, and have already clinched their spot in the playoffs.
Women’s Basketball players from CCC have gone on to continue their collegiate athletic careers at a number of four-year Colleges and Universities, including Rutgers- Camden, Rutgers- New Brunswick, Rowan University, Stockton University, Holy Family University, and Gregorian Court University.
However, Chip said that it isn’t uncommon for his players to end their athletic careers as a Cougar.
“They don’t feel like they can get a better experience. It’s the perfect way to end their athletic career,” said Reitano.
For Chloe, she’s not yet sure where her athletic or academic journey after CCC will take her, but what she does know, is that she is happy with her college choice.
“I would make the decision to come to CCC every time,” remarked Chloe.
