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As if you thought there weren’t any more records to be broken in girls basketball, Alli Campbell has found another accolade to put on her resume. In the second round of the PIAA 2A state tournament, Alli only needed 16 points to break the 3000 point mark, and ended up scoring 35, putting her total at 3,019. This milestone comes just about two months after she surpassed Karson Swogger, a former Blue Devil for the Blair County scoring record, which was previously at 2,520. Campbell, already in a class of her own, having propelled the Lady Blue Devils to one district title, and two consecutive state titles, has again re-proven her dominance not only in the league, but also the state. She has become the 10th player to join the 3,000 point club in PA, and is the only player from Bellwood to achieve the honor. 

“It’s definitely not personal. Reaching 3000 points means that we’ve been able to be successful as a team. To be able to play deep in the playoffs every year just shows you the talent on our team. I truly mean this, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve this milestone if not for my teammates and coaches, and I also can’t thank my parents enough for everything they’ve done for me to help me get to where I am.”

Head coach of the Lady Blue Devils, Jim Swaney has this to say about Alli breaking the 3,000 point mark: “The 3,000 point plateau is a huge accomplishment. Being just the 14th player and 10th girl in state history to reach this level puts her walking with the giants who have ever played this game in Pennsylvania. Alli and the entire senior class have been the catalyst to everything we have done over these last court years. There may never be another class come through Bellwood-Antis high school as decorated as this one is.”

An achievement like this is something that doesn’t happen overnight. Time and sacrifices are just two of the array of things a player like Alli has given up to dedicate to her craft. Included with this is the sheer willpower and work ethic that molds one’s character to not only be persistent but also way beyond the bar of what is expected. Here’s what she had to say about her dedication and work she’s put towards her craft: “Every time I step on the court, whether for practice or playing a game, my mindset has always been to compete and leave everything on the court. I just want to get a little better every time I workout. My confidence comes from knowing that I’ve put in the work.”

Coach Swaney also had similar comments on Alli’s work ethic and player she is saying: “Alli has had a fantastic high school career. Her talent and drive for perfection set her apart from many kids who play this game. I always admire the way Alli handles herself. On the court she is as intense a player as I have ever seen. She is very demanding of herself and her teammates. Off the court she is very humble, always making time for anyone who wants to take a picture or chat.” Alli has not experienced many setbacks in her career but when she personally or our team has had one , Alli has always taken a challenge head on and worked to correct whatever the challenge was. I have always said, I am very proud of Alli as a player, but the person she is, that is what sets her apart from some athletes. Just a first class kid.”

With all of the achievement Alli has obtained during her career here at BA, she unfortunately will have to end her chapter here in a few short months. But this has encouraged herself to set herself as an example for others to follow. This is what she had to say about her time here at Bellwood: “Honestly, the thought of leaving Bellwood is pretty emotional. I’m going to miss this team, my coaches, and especially this community more than you know. It has truly been the best experience possible. I hope that I’m remembered as someone who poured my heart and soul into this program and showed the younger kids that anything is possible if you put your mind to something and work hard for your goals.”

Campbell joining the 3k point club is something that will not only live within her family, but also for the school. Alli has shown simply how hard work and commitment to an art will prove to pay out dividends not only on the stat sheet, but also with people and the community. With this historic accomplishment it also pushes Alli into the top 20 nationally in points this season. She currently has 802 points and is averaging 28.6 points a game.

The Lady Blue Devils are now two wins away from heading back to Hershey for the third year in a row to compete for the state championship. On Friday, they will hit the road to face off against Penns Manor, who beat West Middlesex.