Coach Craig Culbreth expects the speed of his varsity girl’s basketball team to be its strength going into the new season, which begins Nov. 12 against Rosman.
“For us to be a competitive team this year we will have to get the ball up and down the floor quickly, and play good pressure defense,” Culbreth said.
Last year’s team ended the season with a positive 14-12 record but this year’s team lacks experience.
Culbreth will see six seniors return this year, along with six juniors, a sophomore and a freshman taking to the court. But out of those six returning seniors, only two were starters. So, Culbreth said this year would be about constant improvement and hard work.
“We are working hard to develop our talents and chemistry,” Culbreth said. “Our plan is to continue to improve all season long. We play in a very tough conference.”
One of those returning starters will be senior Jamie Hrobak. Hrobak is a 5′ 11″ post player who holds the school’s single game rebound record with 17. Culbreth said Hrobak is a well-conditioned athlete with a tremendous work ethic. He expects Hrobak to take on a key leadership role.
Culbreth is also looking for his tallest player, 6’1 senior Rachel Vining, to grab a few rebounds and blocked shots of her own.
Culbreth said his other seniors, such as Cassidy Mazzilli, who can play all positions from guard to center, and guard Alyssa Montgomery, will also need to step up in leadership roles.
“Montgomery will have to get our offense running and get the ball up the floor. Also on perimeter are Shalyn Brown and Amber Lynch. Both players will provide our team with speed and athleticism,” Culbreth said.
Junior Savannah Deaver, another 5’ 11”post player, is fast for her size, Culbreth said and will need to score and rebound for the team. He said Deaver has tremendous potential.
Returning from injuries will be senior Taylor Collins and junior Emily Miller.
Katie Ruff, Makenzie White, Sarah Davis and Lyric Flood will  move from the JV squad to varsity this season, while freshman Kara Overholt is also expected to bring skill and knowledge of the game to the varsity Lady Wolverines.
Assistant coaches this season are Mark Mazzilli and Michelle Fagan.