STILWELL INDIANS

GIRLS

Coach: Matt Lea

23-24 Record: 22-7

After making it to the Class 4A state tournament last year, the Stilwell Lady Indians have some regrouping to do but still have an experienced core of returning talent.

“We had a big turnover of seniors this year, but we have three new seniors with a lot of experience that will look to take up where we left off last year,” said coach Matt Lea.

Leading the way is Katelyn Wilson who Lea figures to be a major force at both ends for the Lady Indians.

“Katelyn comes into her senior after two trips to the state tournament in her freshman and junior seasons,” said Lea. “She is a ferocious defender and is able to score for anywhere on the floor while always looking to find open teammates in transition. She will be the backbone of our offensive and defensive schemes.”

The other two seniors are Kenzie Starr, a three-sport athlete who is a fierce competitor, and is expected to contribute with solid inside and outside shooting and tenacious defense and Elise Sawney who was out a knee injury last year but has worked hard in the offseason to make a strong return.

Several juniors are also expected to step up this year after seeing solid playing time last year including Emma Sam and Alena Vann.

“Emma will play a major role in our success this year,” said Lea. “She’s a tall, physical post who is developing great footwork and improves every day on defense. If she continues to improve, the sky is the limit for Emma. Alena pushes her teammates every day to be better. She didn’t see a lot of playing time last year but showed up every day to practice and pushed a very elite group of guards. Her hard work will pay off with an extended role this year.”

Among the underclassmen Lea is looking to make a difference sophomore Ava Swafford.

“Ava had a successful freshman season is now looking to up her game,” said Lea. She’s an animal in the weight room and has had a lot of success on our powerlifting team. She’s a physical guard who can score at all three levels.”