Barrington resident Ainsley Burns capped an impressive four-year career with the Colby College women's basketball team by reaching the 1,000-point mark.

Ainsley hit the basketball milestone during her team's win over Husson College earlier this season.

"The game in which I scored my 1,000 point was particularly special because it was the last women’s basketball game that will ever be played in our current athletic center, and it was my last home game at Colby," Ainsley said. Colby College will open a new athletic center next year.

After surpassing the 1,000-point mark, a timeout was called to recognize Ainsley's accomplishment.

"After the game, I was able to celebrate with my family, friends, teammates, and coaches. I was also given the game ball as a keepsake," she said.

Basketball background

Ainsley graduated with honors from LaSalle Academy in 2016, where she lettered all four years in volleyball, basketball and softball. She also helped the Rams win two state championships in basketball.

As a freshman at Colby College in Maine, Ainsley continued her hard-working approach to the basketball.

"Throughout my high school and college careers, I have been called upon to play many different positions. Depending on the lineup that was on the floor, I could be a guard or a one-forward, and I worked hard to develop skills at both positions," she said.

"I spent a lot of time in the gym working on my jump shot, and defense is something that has been emphasized on every team I have been a part of. Both my high school and college teams have stressed the importance of playing as a team and sharing the ball, which is something that I have tried to embody throughout my career."

Ainsley, who is majoring in neurological biology and minoring in mathematics, scored 202 points her freshman year, 186 points as a sophomore, and 353 points her junior year. As a senior, she scored 278 points, for a four-year total of 1,019 points.

Ainsley said there are a number of people who have helped her succeed through the years.

"My parents helped me tremendously throughout my career," she said. "They have provided me with so many opportunities and have always been my biggest supporters. Also, all of the coaches and teammates I have had have all played an important role in helping me develop into the player that I am today."

That includes fellow Barrington resident and Colby College teammate Grace Coutu. Grace is a junior at Colby.

Ainsley said she has enjoyed playing basketball in college.

"I would definitely recommend playing basketball in college. Being a student-athlete has taught me the importance of efficiency, organization, and time management, and I have developed into a stronger and more confident leader. I have also made lifelong friends and memories. Basketball has certainly enhanced my overall college experience," she said.