The Struthers girls’ basketball team will honor their 50th-year anniversary at the boys’ game on Friday, February 10th, in the Struthers Fieldhouse.

Both past and present Struthers players are going to be acknowledged during this celebration for their achievements and dedication to Struthers Basketball. All alumni, players or not, are encouraged to attend to show their support.

Dana Safarek, a Struthers graduate who is in the 1,000-point club for basketball, has deep roots in Struthers and is grateful to be celebrated.

“Struthers girls basketball was a large and important part of my life. Some of my best memories were made in the fieldhouse with my teammates. Our program is special, and therefore it’s an honor for me to be recognized for its 50th anniversary. My great-grandma played for the Struthers Lady Cats, so I come from a family that has been invested in the program for a very long time,” says Safarek.

Many of the girls on the current team are honored to be a part of this special year as well. It’s an experience unlike any other that they’re proud to be involved with.

Mia Rodriguez, a freshman on the basketball team, is happy to be a part of the once-in-a-lifetime moment.

“It feels like a really great honor, and even though it’s my first year, I feel like I’ve been a part of something for so long,” says Rodriguez.

The girls’ program, as a whole, has won many awards both individually and team-wise throughout the years. All of these successes will also be recognized on the 10th for this special celebration.

Safarek is proud of her team and the individual accomplishments she’s made during her time in high school.

“On an individual level, I am the 2nd all-time leading scorer. Team-wise, we won back-to-back AAC Championships in 2009/2010 and then in 2010 we won the District Championship and made it to the Regional Finals,” says Safarek.