NORTHAMPTON, Mass.--Usually, the competitive career of a Division III athlete ends with their final contest. But recent Smith College graduate Devon Quattrocchi (Brewster, N.Y./Brewster) has bucked that trend, signing a professional contract with Vaerlose Basketball Club in Vaerlose, Denmark.
Quattrocchi, who recently completed her playing career as the Pioneers' starting point guard will head to Vaerlose, which is a suburb of Copenhagen to play for a team that recently reached the semifinals of the Danish Laegen, the top division of women's basketball in Denmark. Former Pioneer Berit Schelde '10 also plays professionally in the Danish league, for Falcon.
"I am excited to have this opportunity to play basketball professionally in Denmark," said Quattrocchi. "I will be able to continue my basketball career and experience living abroad at the same time. With my basketball commitments, I did not go abroad while I was a student, but now I have been given a chance to do so, and also to continue to play a game that I love! While at Smith I was fortunate to meet women from all around the world, and their bravery and success has given me a sense of confidence to know that I too, can succeed in this endeavor . Smith and especially Coach Hersey have taught me so much and have showed me that I will grow from opportunities that expand my horizons. I am forever grateful to Smith basketball, for all that Smith has given me, and look forward to bringing all that I have learned with me to Denmark!"
Quattrocchi's career at Smith was a glittering one, finishing her career as Smith's all-time leader in steals, second in games started, and third in assists. She ended her senior season by averaging a career high 12.0 points per game and 4.1 rebounds per contest, earning First Team All-NEWMAC Honors. She was also named as a NEWBA Senior All-Star, and a NEWBA All-Region First Team recipient. She also received Fourth Team All-New England Honors from d3hoops.com.
"The Smith Basketball family would like to congratulate Devon on earning this amazing opportunity to pursue her passion for the sport of basketball in Denmark," said Smith head coach Lynn Hersey. "Devon prepares for the game with an unmatched rigious work ethic and an intense competitive spirit, both of which have left a lasting impression on our program. She is a special player who pushes herself to improve everyday, never taking for granted a single minute to learn and grow. This opportunity recognizes the countless hours Devon has spent in the gym and I feel confident she will be prepared to help the Vaerlose Basketball Club accomplish their team goals for the upcoming season. We will be following Devon in the next chapter of her life, proudly knowing she is representing Smith."
Click here for an interview with Quattrocchi and her new club.
