Coupeville Sports

Wolf freshman Dakota Strong is bringing her hoops game to her mom’s hometown. (Photo courtesy Danette Beckley)

The circle is complete.

Dakota Strong (and big sis Danica) have returned to the stomping grounds of their mother and aunt, ready to add their own chapters of success to the family’s story of athletic achievement.

Mom is Danette Beckley, who formed a potent one-two combo on the hardwood with Judy Marti in the ’80s, and she currently sits #44 on the Coupeville High School girls’ basketball career scoring chart.

Aunt Jana (Beckley) Bouzek joined her big sis on the softball diamond, playing for Libbey’s Little Ladies, which was coached by Dakota and Danica’s grandfather, Joe.

But the year is 2023 and the spotlight turns to focus on a new generation.

After stints in Lynden and Idaho, Dakota Strong will be a freshman at CHS this fall, and one with an eye on making an impact for the Wolf basketball program.

She has played for both school and club teams, and she and her sister have already suited up for Coupeville’s summer squad.

“My favorite sport is basketball because it’s been a significant sport that has been in my family for many years,” Dakota said. “And it’s brought me and my sister closer together over the years.”

Having an older sibling willing to provide her with support has been invaluable.

“She has more experience in the sport than I do, and instead of putting me down she always offers to take me to the gym,” Dakota said.

“At practice she encourages me to work harder and gives me pointers on things she notices.”

While basketball is the frontrunner, Dakota has also played softball and “loves riding horses.”

She was a barrel racer previously but has largely transitioned to riding for fun these days.

Dakota and Danica both possess an exploring nature, one which fits with the various locations in which they’ve lived.

“I enjoyed going to the lake a lot with my sister when we lived in Idaho,” Dakota said. “Since we moved (to Whidbey), we have been going to beaches together and seeing new places.”

The rising young star is quick to encourage her teammates, which pays benefits in many ways.

“I see that as a huge part of the sport,” Dakota said. “Having confidence in your teammates and yourself benefits the whole team.

“Good attitudes lead to good games.”

Playing sports is often an ideal way to make new friends, and build a strong support crew, something she appreciates.

“What I enjoy about being an athlete is the new people it brings into my life,” Dakota said. “I also enjoy the structure it brings and accountability that it teaches.”

As she prepares for the start of her run at a new school, the future is wide open.

“My goals for my high school sports career are to try new things and hopefully find new experiences and opportunities through sports,” Dakota said.

“I also would like to step out of my comfort zone in certain skills areas throughout the years.”