Lady Cougars will be quick and aggressive
By ROWENA PLETT
Staff writer
Several "very athletic" freshmen and sophomores, according to Greg Wyatt, coach of the Centre High School girls' basketball team, will give the team a boost this year. At least 28 students are on the squad, of which 18 are lower classmen.
The Lady Cougars are hoping for a winning 2004-05 season after a disappointing overall record last year of 10-12.
Three starters are returning. Jill Fenske, a senior, plays guard position. Junior Jackie Klenda also is a guard, and sophomore Megan Gutsch is a forward.
Other returning letter winners are senior Brianne Stahlecker, guard; juniors Ashley Griffith, guard, Krista Heiser, forward, and Jenna Beneke, forward; and sophomore Selena Seifert, guard.
Other members of the team are senior Shaina Makovec, juniors Dani Hatfield, Katie Baird, and Kelsey Luthy; sophomores Teaira Turner, Alyssa Luna, Brittany Owens, Gloria Belton, Jessica Deines, Alisha Barney, and Chelsey Tajchman.
Freshmen members are Amy Hajek, Kelsey Hatfield, Kylie Burhoop, Samantha Alvarez, Brooke Carlson, Julie Rziha, Justine Jennings, Nellie Hill, and Kristine Jirak.
Wyatt believes White City will be top contender in the Eisenhower League along with Hope, which has an experienced team with many seniors.
The coach is concerned about the overall small size of the players but hopes their quickness and aggressiveness will make up for it.
"I am looking forward to this season and excited about what could happen if everything fits into place with team chemistry," Wyatt said.
Beginning his 22nd year as coach, Wyatt reiterated his philosophy.
"Our objectives or goals have always been the same," he said. "I expect us to give 100 percent every time we take the floor, respect everyone but fear no one, be positive and good things will happen."
