Murray, NEB- The Conestoga Girls varsity basketball team opened their season with a game against the Louisville Lions on Dec. 4. The Cougars ultimately fell short of the Lions with a final score of 33-63.
Conestoga began the game with the first possession after winning the tipoff. The Lions got an early lead on the Cougars as the first quarter wrapped up. The second quarter was a turning point for the Cougars. Head Coach Mark Skiles shares, “At times, we were able to cause havoc with our full court press.” This allowed the Cougars to possess the ball more on offense which led to them outscoring the Lions second quarter. After halftime, the Cougars put up a strong fight but the Lions came out aggressive and got another lead on the Cougars causing them to win the game.
After reflecting on the game, Skiles stated, “I am disappointed that we did not get the win, and I never accept losing. But I am happy with the fight the team demonstrated and how they stayed tight as a group.” With this being the first game for the girls, it showed the things they need to work on to live up to their full potential. As the season progresses, the team will continue to practice to grow as individuals and as a team.
Up until this point, the girls have maintained positive attitudes and have really showed up to work each day at practice. “The season has been fun and fulfilling so far because of the high caliber of people on the team,” Skiles commented. The team is significantly bigger this year, and the team has bought into the importance of creating a “family” type of atmosphere which has been a goal for the season. This showed in their first game as they trusted each other, cared for each other, showed collective responsibility, communicated, and presented their pride. The Cougars will continue through their season representing that theme and improving each day.
“I am looking forward to working with the team, watching them build strong relationships with each other, and watching them improve each day as players, students, and people,” Skiles stated.
