The Lady Warrior Basketball team had a different start to the season, having head coach Justin Koleno out for 20 days. Coach Koleno’s last day was out with one practice to go before the first game, and Chad Koleno was able to step in to help the Lady Warriors. The girls were able to start the season off strong being 3-1 before entering the annual Christmas tournament. The Warriors fought hard in the final minutes of the championship game, falling just short of Bald Eagle Area High School. One of the Lady Warriors stand out players, Jenna Mertz, was also named Tournament MVP player at the tournament. After the Warriors had a strong start to the season, starter Emmie Parks was taken out for a season-ending injury.
Coach Koleno says, “ Her loss was noticeable with our team’s rebounding and overall energy. As the season went on, the girls settled into roles and made great improvements- especially on the offensive side.”
After the Warriors faced many of these hard obstacles, they were able to adjust and find a way to fight through the season. Many career highs were brought to the table this season. Jenna Mertz had a career high game of 32 points away at Curwensville and Katrina Cowder followed with a career high of 24 points against Harmony. With many of these individual records came many season achievements. Ally Shingledecker was named the leading all progressland player for three point shots having 31 three pointers made and Jenna Mertz scored 326 points for the season. Katrina Cowder was also had an outstanding 81 blocks for the season. Although all three sophomores, Ally Shingledecker, Jenna Mertz, and Katrina Cowder led the team offensively, Erin Godin and Hannah Beets both had many overall contributions to the games helping the team stretch the ball down the court.
This was the first year for both Coach Koleno and the Warriors to play in a District basketball playoff game. The Warriors traveled to play Purchase Line away in the first round of district playoffs.The Warriors had many errors in the beginning of the game, costing Purchase Line to take a large lead. The experience and age of the team was able to be seen in this game with some of the nerves and overall playing in the first quarter of the big game.
Coach Koleno said, “We are the only team on our schedule without a senior. I am excited that this team gets to reload and do it again next year.” Next year, the Lady Warriors will have all returners looking for another successful season.
The Lady Warrior basketball team ended the regular season with a 12-10 record.
