The Struthers girls’ basketball team played Niles at home February 2 for their senior night.
The game was a rough one with Struthers losing to Niles the first time they played them they were out for redemption. Both teams held their own with Niles, winning by 12 in the first quarter and Struthers tying it up 30-30 by the half. While both teams brought the energy and put their all on the court, Niles took the win 47-38.
While Struthers might not have come out on top, the game was filled with positivity.
“Every senior night has a different type of atmosphere from a normal game because you never want to let your seniors down on their night. Even though we didn’t pull the win off, it was still a great night filled with memories,” said senior player Katelyn Kimble.
This game wasn’t just a game for Struthers; it was a night to show appreciation to its two seniors, Katelyn Kimble and Ava Croyle. The team decorated the locker room all beach themed with old pictures of the two from all their years of basketball. The girls also made baskets for the two with handwritten letters to them filled with memories and gratitude.
The team’s hard work on the senior night celebration really hit the hearts of the seniors.
“I think my favorite part was walking into the locker with everyone there, music playing and just having it all hit me at once. It was a great team moment that brought us all together,” said Kimble.
The two seniors have contributed a lot to the Struthers basketball program through the past four years. They have brought positivity and leadership to the team that has brought them together as a team. The coaches and team are sad to see them go but happy that they were able to make a night that they will always remember.
The seniors were going to hate letting go of the team just as much.
“I’m going to miss my teammate the most. They are the only reason this year has been as good as it has been. They come into practice every day ready to work. I couldn’t be more appreciative of them,” said Kimble.
