The volleyball team did it. Why can’t the basketball team?
The 2015 Dove Creek Volleyball team went 3-18, but this year’s squad responded by winning 12 games and making a regional tournament appearance, finishing with a 12-13 record.
So, after going just 1-19 during the 2015-16 basketball season, the Lady Bulldogs are hoping to make a leap similar to the volleyball team’s this season.
“From when I started three years ago we’ve improved each year,” said head coach Angie Gatlin. “And I think this year we’re going to see more improvements all around in our game. I think it’s going to be based on attitude. If they can come in and give us 100 percent and have the right attitude, I think we’ll see a different ball team for us.”
After graduating four players from last year’s team, the Bulldogs will lean on returners Madilyn Hankins, LaRissa Randolph and Marissa Hatfield, as well as their lone senior Shelby Fullmer and freshmen Cassie Gatlin, Taylor Hickman, Aspen Kibel, Ashley Skidmore and Jolena Spigner.
“They could all potentially play varsity,” Gatlin said of her strong freshman class. “They have some good skills coming in and they could all have a part in varsity play.”
With a mix of size, speed and skill, Gatlin couldn’t point to a specific area of strength for her team, saying they should be improved in all areas.
“I think we are going to be strong outside and inside both this year,” she said. “We have some potential in all of the shooting we’ve been doing at practice – all of them can shoot.”
The Lady Bulldogs will kick off the 2016-17 campaign at home on Thursday, Dec. 1 against Ignacio.
