The team has a positive outlook for this season and continues shooting for success as players and coaches have set higher expectations.
“Some of our team goals are to win against the other Plainfield schools, communicate effectively on and off the court, win 60% or more of our games, and to make 65% or higher of free-throws for the season,” Timothy Torkelson, head varsity coach, said.
Tough competition has challenged the athletes to grow outside their comfort zone and increase strength.
“This year individually and as a team I think our goals have gotten a little harder but nothing we can’t accomplish,” Hannah Kilday, senior, said. “All of the Plainfield schools have a well-developed team but with our team working together and trusting each other, I think we are definitely capable of winning against all of the other Plainfield schools.”
The team has constantly pushed each other at practice to be as prepared as possible for game day.
“What strengthens the team is competition amongst players in practice. Players push one another to their limits, which will make individual players perform at a higher level and will ultimately make the team stronger,” Torkelson said.
The athletes do not shy away from obstacles or challenges thrown their way.
“We welcome obstacles/challenges because getting through those is how we can grow as a team. The first thing we do is we hit whatever obstacle or challenge we are faced with head-on and do not shy away from it,” Held said. “When you pretend like the obstacle/challenge isn’t there, that is when it can become disastrous for team growth. The second thing we do is practice being in challenging situations or having an obstacle to overcome. By practicing these types of situations in practice, the girls learn how to work together to get through anything and that brings them closer together as a team.”
When a game does not go as planned, the team looks up and works at what needs to be done next.
“One thing I take away from a game that I didn’t play well is something that went bad for me. For example dribbling, free throws, shooting, steals, etc. and learn how to focus and be ready for the next game,” Na’Vayuh Junior, junior, said.
Teammates are also constantly motivating and lifting each other up.
“We as a team can work and train really hard to the best of our ability but at the same time letting ourselves make mistakes is okay because at the end of the day missing a basket isn’t the worst thing to happen. We can all thrive off of each other’s mistakes,” Kilday said.
There have been a lot of changes this season as compared to last season such as a new head coach and a lot of new faces.
“Something I have learned last season that will carry over to this season is to just have fun! Whether you’re playing basketball or any other sport you need to remember that you are doing this sport because you enjoy it,” Kilday said.
Hard work and dedication are what the athletes have been putting on and off the court as the season continues.