LigonierPa. – Illinois Institute of Technology offered Ligonier Valley High School senior Laila Bahr the opportunity to continue playing basketball and study in one of the nation’s largest cities.
The small forward and slasher fell in love with the combination of academics and athletics. She plans to major in biomedical engineering at the Chicago institution.
“I chose Illinois Institute of Technology for several reasons,” Barr said. “Firstly, it's a great school for hands-on STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) and provides opportunities for entrepreneurs in my major. Second, it's located in Chicago. , I think it's a great city. Lastly, I got to meet the team and coach Carissa Sain and get to know everyone. I think this is a great fit academically and athletically.”
Barr earned a full scholarship to Camrath University and has played basketball for six years. She also competed in cross country and softball.
Barr earned four letters in cross country and two letters in softball.
Over the past two seasons, Barr averaged nine points, eight rebounds, 1.5 blocks, 1.5 steals and 1.5 assists per game. The two-year co-captain originally played basketball to prepare for softball season.
“Originally, I agreed to play because my dad loves softball and said cross-training would help with softball,” Barr said. “But I fell in love with basketball right away.”
Illinois Tech went 5-19 in the 2023-24 season. The Scarlet Hawks compete at the NCAA Division III level within the Northern Athletics College Conference.
Barr played basketball for Johnstown PA Fusion (2021-22) and Pittsburgh SLAAM (spring 2023).
“My biggest influence in my athletic career has been my father and trainer Timotheus Pope,” Barr said. “My father always encouraged me in whatever sport I played, from coaching me in several sports when I was young to taking me to training every day. .
“I love being able to play one-on-one and bond with him over basketball. Mr. Pope taught me most of my basketball skills and has been with me ever since I started training with him in seventh grade. I would like to thank him for his help and encouragement over the years.”
Mr. Barr is an Eagle Scout with Troop 1372 and a member of the National Honor Society. She also received the AP Honor Scholar Award and the Seton Hill Women in Science Award.
Barr believes Ligonier Valley helped propel her to the next level.
“I would like to thank the entire Ligonier Valley coaches and athletic staff for providing me with every opportunity,” Barr said. “I would also like to thank Mr. Tercek for inspiring me to major in engineering and attend a STEM school.”
Ms. Barr is the daughter of J. Dustin and Lisa Barr of Ligonier.
