The Struthers girls basketball team played Mineral Ridge at home on November 27.
This was Struthers first game of the season.
The game was close with the ending source being 54-53 Mineral Ridge taking the win. Mineral Ridge was a tough component but the girls came together to play strong defensive and running smart plays. Struthers out rebound them 44-34. Struthers also came out with 9 assists, 15 steals, and 4 blocks. Senior Katelyn Kimble drained two threes and senior Ava Croyle put up shots in the post.
Kimble has mixed feelings towards their first game.
“I feel like our first game wasn’t the best but was definitely a stepping stone for us. It helped us realize what we need to change,” says Kimble.
This is Struthers first year with new head and assistant coaches. Head Coach Halle Minchin-Skook was an assistant coach for a couple years. Also the new assistant coaches are Erica Wilson and Cara Bornemiss. They are already starting to build a new culture for girls basketball.
Kimble has faith in the new coaching staff.
“Our coaches help us keep moving no matter what. They push us to get better daily, and continue to work hard through every win and loss,” says Kimble.
Mineral Ridge was a touch component, especially for their first game. However, the fans came out to support. The atmosphere of the game was uplifting and brought a great mood to the players when they were feeling down about the score. The fans gave the team a little boost of confidence to get rid of those first game jitters.
While the Wildcats didn’t take home the win, there are always lessons to learn from.
“We need to work on our ball handling and throwing less turnovers. We allowed our nerves to take over and mess up our game,” says Kimble.
The Ladycats aren’t done yet this is only the beginning for this tight knit team. There next game is on Thursday against Hubbard at home.
