By Jules Cantor, ’11, Sports Editor
With only three returning upperclassmen, one might think this would be a rebuilding year for the 2009-2010 CCDS girls basketball team. However, that’s simply not the case. The Indians return with an abundance of experienced players, including both captains from last year’s squad, point guard Nichole Lowe, ’10 (pictured), and forward Mariah Reed, ’10, as well as junior forward Jamie Huelskamp (pictured above) and sophomores Ricci Snell (shooting guard) and Erica Armstead (forward). With these core players, Head Coach John Snell expects to “build on last year, and contend for the league title.”
With only four upperclassmen (Reed, Lowe, Xanni Brown, ’10, and Huelskamp), the Indians are defined by young talent. Fortunately, there is a profusion of young talent waiting to step up. Snell and Armstead are returning starters, and the rest of the girls basketball Class of 2012 should make a significant impact this winter. Caitlin Hilberg, a transfer from Madeira, is a talented forward who provides a strong post presence. Rachel Neal should see some time spelling Lowe at point guard. In addition, Beverly Johnson, Candice Keese, and Savannah Bryant should be key role players on this year’s team.
The freshman class is also no stranger to a high level of competition. The freshman girls won the MVC middle school title last year, and their talent level bodes well for the future. One freshman in particular stands out. Forward phenom Cassie Sachs is an extremely skilled post player who has the height and ability necessary to compete at the varsity level right away, potentially in a starting role. Other freshmen who may see time include Caroline Gentile, Abby McInturf, and Sally Portman.
However, Reed and Lowe are the heart and soul of CCDS girls basketball. Lowe truly embodies the role of floor general, as she is unselfish with the ball, while still finding a way to make a timely shot. Reed returns as the team’s leading scorer and rebounder, having scored 300 points and pulled down 93 boards a year ago. Together, they will provide the senior leadership essential to winning a conference title and making a run deep into the postseason.
Up next on Coach Snell’s radar screen is his 100th win. Snell has 97 career victories, and he’s hoping that it only takes him 3 games to get to triple digits. T
Photo by Ilana Habib.
