With the winter sports season in full swing, the Warrior Girls’ Basketball team has a lot to look forward to. After closing out last season with a tough loss to Bishop McCort in the first round of district playoffs, the team is eager to build on their experience and aim higher this year. After finishing last season with an impressive overall record of 15-9 last, the team is scheduled to take on familiar opponents including Tussey Mountain, Northern Bedford, and Ferndale. This year, they’ll add new challengers like Penns Manor and Blacklick Valley which will add excitement to an already promising season. However, the team will also face some hurdles, including the challenge of replacing three senior starters, as they adjust to a new roster.
The team lost a total of seven seniors: Kaylianne Zitsch, Brooke Bainey, Montana Williams, Tate Swatsworth, Erin Godin, Jenna Mertz, and Ally Shingledecker. Among them, Godin, Mertz, and Shingledecker played crucial roles in the team’s success, leaving big shoes to fill as the Warriors look to continue their momentum from last season. Lily Williams and Sarah Guglielmi are the returning starting players, but with several spots open, starting positions are up for grabs. Irelyn Briscoe saw a lot of court time last season and helped the team with her impressive effort and shooting. While the team lost key seniors, they have gained fresh talent to fill the gaps. Freshman Nola Briscoe, Leyton Williams were added to the roster, alongside sophomores Myia Stagi and Elaina Sabol. Returning player, Macie Prinkey is also back as well as junior Bella Kerfoot rounding out the team. With a mix of returning players and new talent, there isn’t a shortage of potential.
Mandatory practices started last Friday, the 15th, and the team has some rebuilding to accomplish. Williams says, “I think it will take a lot of work to have success this season since we lost a lot of key players in both our offense and defense. For our upcoming team, we need to adjust to all the changes, keep working and a successful season isn’t so far out of reach.” The Warriors play their first game at Moshannon Valley on December 9th at 7:30 P.M.
