WARRIORS REBUILDING

Injured Team Captains Ally Shields and Hanna McGary (Photo by Candy Nevers)

WARRIORS REBUILDING
by Ken Holck

Coach Cliff Urquhart knew he would have to replace three starters from last season from the State Championship team. Cami Shields, Maddie Shields and Emma Landry all graduated and each had started for the past three seasons.

However, injuries have forced the Warriors into an entirely new starting unit this season.

Junior Ally Shields was lost with a season-ending knee injury in the preseason and more recently returning point guard Hannah McGary has found herself in need a walking boot which will keep her out of action for the foreseeable future.

The Warriors started off with a pretty tough schedule and currently find themself with a three-and-five record and in 7th place in Class D.

Coach Urquhart sees a light at the end of the tunnel. This current group is gaining experience quickly and have been competitive on most nights. His two captains remain with the team and offer leadership qualities and encouragement to their teammates.

Senior Libby Anderson is the team’s post-presence. Last year she served as the first person off the bench in most games. This year she has been counted on to do most of the rebounding and a lot of the inside scoring Libby sets the tone with her hard work and her big smile every day

Sophomore Alexis Hersey is starting to realize her potential as she has emerged as the team’s high scorer in most games. One opposing coach recently called her the most underrated player in the County, and definitely one of the most improved.

Sophomore Jazmyn Ellingwood has taken over the point responsibilities. She is a hard-nosed defensive player who is on the front of the press She is a steady scorer as well

Her sister Olivia, a senior, has been holding down one of the inside positions in the team and has shown the ability to mix it up with the other teams’ post players and provide some scoring.

Freshman Emma Stubbs, has been the 5th starter in most games has been counted on to rebound and score a little bit from the inside.

Freshman Haley McGary has played major minutes as the first person off the bench the hard-working little lefty has gained confidence in each game and has a knack for picking up key baskets with her fearless drives to the hoop.

Kendall Lawler, Neveah Keyes, Savanah Anderson, and Grace Anderson have been steady contributors when called upon.

Coach Urquhart and his assistant Wendall Harvey are both pleased with the effort of this young team.

By the time post-season arrives, this team should be ready to make some noise.