The Fair Grove High School Girls Basketball team ended their season on February 27th in the second round of districts against Sparta.
Assistant coach Kayley Frank explained how the team practiced before districts, “We focused on ensuring everybody was on the same page about our game plan and what we were trying to do offensively and defensively to take away the other team’s strengths and play to our own strengths.”
Frank continued, “Practices were spent preparing for the teams we might face, as well as working on our weaknesses and trying to improve.”
Head coach Garry Greene explained the teams progress throughout the season, “I thought we got better as the year went on and I was very proud of the way they kept showing up and working hard to give themselves a chance to win even when we were struggling with injuries.”
The team had a mentality before going into districts. Allison Sechler (11) explained, “Our mentality was one play at a time. We knew any game we didn’t play our best, would be our last game. I think having the first seed gave us a better mindset. We were hype and excited because we all enjoyed playing with each other.”
Sage Crowley (11) added that she knew the team would have to work hard going into districts, especially after coming off multiple team injuries. She continued stating that she studied as much film as she could preparing for districts.
Frank stated that each player on the team had an important role. Whether scoring, rebounding, handling the ball, or shutting down the other team’s best player, they fulfilled those roles. She explained that to win a game, you need the players to ensure their specific role is done.
The players enjoyed the atmosphere of the district games. Crowley stated, “My favorite part of districts was being able to play with my teammates that I knew won’t be able to play with next year, and not always thinking about my performance and trying to have fun instead of stressing.”
Sechler added that her favorite part about districts was how excited everyone was to play together. She explained that they came together to celebrate each other’s victories, whether big or small.
This season the team faced challenges, worked hard, and kept a strong mentality throughout, showcasing their teamwork and determination that will continue on to the next season.
