Banquet and season recap

The Challenger/Patriots (yes, we're back to two names - it's a long story) held their season-ending banquet last night at Family of Faith Church in Monee, IL. After devotions, all the families and friends of the team sat down to a delicious potluck meal. Afterwards, Coach Boss spoke a little about the season and then handed out certificates to all members of the team (our version of varsity letters). Three awards were handed out: Most Improved Player was given to Lee Bianchi, Defensive Player of Year was given to Becca Dorn, and Most Valuable Player was awarded to Kara Boss. Coach Boss did mention that he struggled to decide who to give the Most Improved award to between Lee and Rachel Eizenga. Coach Boss also thanked all the parents for their help and support, the guys who helped out in practice, Stephen especially for serving as assistant coach, and his mother for all the planning and logistical work. Coach Boss did say he hoped to coach next year, which was received well by the group.

Following this, we tried to get the picture video that Becca put together to play on the church's projection system, but were unsuccessful. This only gave the group more time to socialize, which they did for quite awhile, and then said goodbye until next year (or Sunday, as most would see each other at church).

As mentioned in prior posts, I think this season was successful, despite the record, which was 1-13. The record was similar, as well as the points scored for and against, to last year's games against JV and varsity. The record last year was 1-9 against JV and varsity, with the lone win against Granger. Last year all of the girls except for Mary Barker had no experience, while Mary had several years; this year four of the girls had one year experience, though Cassidy didn't get much playing time, and three had none. It is difficult to compare, though, as the competition at this level varies greatly within programs year-to-year (case in point: Victory Christian).

Several games this we were hurt by the lack of experience and the short bench. It really hurt us when one of the starters got in foul trouble. It also precluded much man-to-man defense and full court pressure without many to substitute. Coach Boss really hopes to add players next year. A lack of height hurt us as well. Even girls with limited skills but were tall hurt us quite a bit this year (note the Grace game). So keep your eyes open for tall, athletic homeschooled girls who want to play basketball. Or even tall girls of moderate skill who can be talked into playing.

Hopefully the weather will be a little more cooperative next year so we can play a full schedule. Kristi has developed good relationships now with many ADs and coaches, so scheduling should be a little easier next year. And with another year of experience, who knows? We could double or triple or even quadruple our win total.

Now, its on to volleyball......