Back in November, questions arose about girls’ basketball attendance. Last year, girls’ basketball had 3 squads, but for most of November, only 12 girls showed up to open gyms. “Open gyms are a time when coaches get us in the gym during the preseason,” Lyssa Peterson said. She felt people weren’t going to open gyms because of the mental and physical challenge during the season. “Having the drive to show up to practice every day is challenging,” she said. “Your body undergoes a lot, especially on top of school, which I fully understand [mental and physical challenges], but, for some of us, we love the game.” All students at Central have experienced the workload. On top of a 7-hour school day, athletes spend about 2 hours extra for practices, plus homework. Even with the hardship, Lyssa expressed her excitement for the season.
Last season, the girls’ varsity finished 4th at state. This year, the team shows a lot of promise in their skills. Senior GG Hastings started last season for the Rams. “I am a little anxious for the upcoming season, but I think that’s good, and I am really excited to play probably my last basketball season ever,” she said. She seemed to have no worries about attendance. Anyone present in the gym would have been drawn into the laughter and amusement the girls shared. GG mentioned that the team is very connected. “We have a really fun group of girls that are always telling jokes and having a great time, so it will be a lot of fun.”
Whether or not Central High girls are willing to face the challenge, those who do will surely make the best of it, regardless of the physical and mental challenges. “My favorite part of the season is definitely bus rides with the team and praying before and after games. The prayer is very special to me, because it’s not something every team does and makes me feel closer as a team and to God,” said Hastings. The team is looking forward to this upcoming season. Despite all their hardships, the girls will find a way to have fun.
