Maci Gambell
Hedrick, Iowa
Class of 2022
Why did you chose Central?
I chose Central because I loved how welcoming and at home I felt when I visited. I loved how I was going to be able to get the education that I wanted while also getting to continue to play basketball. Pella is such a pretty and welcoming community and I wanted to be able to be a part of it all.
Favorite professor and why?
Ellen DuPre. I love anatomy and the way that she taught really helped me understand the material. She really cares about her students and making sure that they succeed.
You’re majoring in exercise science because?
I am majoring in exercise science while on the Pre-Nursing track. I have always loved medicine and fitness. Being able to major in exercise science gives me the exercise and fitness side of my passion, but also really prepares me for nursing school.
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?
Besides athletics I am a Co-Events Planner for Dance Marathon and I work for the Admissions Office as a student ambassador.
Who are your go-to musical artists?
I do not really have any favorite artists. I love all country and Christmas music!
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?
I think the best thing that I have ever chosen to do is come to Central and play basketball. Being a student athlete has really taught me the importance of hard work but also time management. I feel like I am always on the go, but that keeps me focused and directed. It has also provided me with an amazing support group. I know that I always have a great group of girls on my team that have my back and coaches and staff that are there to help me in any way that they can.
Who is your hero/inspiration?
My heroes are definitely my parents. My parents have taught me everything and really helped me developed into the person I am today. They are two of the hardest working, helpful and loving people I know.
What’s your perfect pizza?
I love all kinds of pizza, but my favorite is Canadian bacon!
If you could win the lottery, what's the first thing you would do?
If I could win the lottery, I would first pay off any debt, take a huge trip with my family and then save the rest for later.
Favorite professional athlete
I do not really have a favorite athlete, but I am team Jordan > James
Favorite TV Show
Yellowstone is definitely #1, but I also love The Night Shift, All America and Designated Survivor
What’s it like to play for Coach Steinkamp?
Playing for Coach Steinkamp has really helped me develop myself as a player and a basketball player. He knows so much about the game of basketball and really wants his team to be successful. When he took over the women’s program, he knew that the team had the potential to turn the program around. He has worked so hard to push us and create a program that is on the path for success, and that has been very evident already.
What’s your favorite part about being a member of the Central women’s basketball team?
My favorite part of being a member of the Central women’s basketball team is by far the girls. Through this team I have met my best friends. All of us girls get along so well and it is always so much to be with them.
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
10 years from now I hope to be a nurse, married with kids and a corgi puppy.
Favorite food from Central Market
Crunch wraps, cheese curds and tollhouse bars... real healthy I know.
Bucket list
Visit every state in the U.S.
Go skydiving
Visit Europe
Run a half or full marathon
Own a Corgi, Australian Shepard and Golden Retriever puppy
