MURRAY, NEB.–There’s frost on the ground and a chill in the air, which can only mean one thing…winter sports are finally rolling into action! Some of you may have seen athletes waddling around with pained looks on their faces or hear them complaining about being sore. These athletes aren’t injured. This perpetual limp is due to the week of conditioning that they endure to get in shape for their season.

Working hard in the offseason and putting in work at conditioning are things that might make or break the season for Conestoga’s girls basketball team. “Conditioning has gone well. The girls have been working hard when we have been doing our running, which hopefully sets the standard for the rest of the season,” said head coach Tony Thies. Because pushing athletes to their limits is what is going to make them better, Thies is hopeful for improvement in their statistics and record this year.

With ten returning letter winners, the team is prepared to put in the work that will put the odds in their favor and make their team better. The girls went 3-20 last year, a record that is expected to be much better this year. High expectations surround the program with the help of their coaching staff and support from their fans and peers.

Due to protocols put in place to minimize the risk of catching the coronavirus, students may not be able to come watch the girls in action. However, the games will be livestreamed for people to watch and support the team from the comfort of their homes. Players and coaches are hopeful that the season will continue as scheduled, but they do have some doubts.

“I wish I could be somewhat optimistic, but I’m worried that it’s gonna be tough to get the season in, unfortunately” said new assistant coach Kyle Steckler. Steckler previously coached the junior high and high school boys basketball teams, and was the head coach for high school girls. Steckler has had a lot of experience coaching basketball, and is excited to bring his expertise to the girl’s team this year.

Thies and Steckler are joined by Kyleigh Lewis on the coaching staff this year.

This season will definitely look different, but not only because of Covid-19. The hard work that the girls have been putting in at open gyms and conditioning will be reflected in what happens on the court this year. The girls’ optimism and dedication to be better will surely take them far on and off the court.