Oct. 2, 2013

ARLINGTON, Texas - For her last season at UT Arlington, senior Megan Casey has changed her uniform number. Previously No. 16, Casey has switched to No. 20 as a tribute to her hometown.

Casey is originally from Newtown, Conn., site of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in December. Twenty children lost their lives in the tragedy. It's important to Casey to remember those lost on that day, as the lives of the children were something special to her.

"For me, I struggled with what number to pick," Casey said. "I ended up choosing No. 20 because I really wanted to honor the children."

UT Arlington coach Diane Seymour has been impressed Casey on the court, and even more so as a person.

"She is a very smart kid," Seymour said. "She enjoys all types of people, music and has no problem interjecting herself into that circle. She's accepting of anybody that comes into the circle, and she genially wants to know about how and who you are.

"I always thought that was very unique because some people don't have the confidence. She's such a competitive person in the gym, it's great for us. She's got a little fire in her belly and I do enjoy that part about her."

As a defensive specialist, Casey is fourth on the team in assists with 12. She has competed in all 15 matches for the Mavericks this season.