Contributing writer
More than 20 players have reported for practice on the Goessel girls’ basketball squad, and several injuries need to heal in order to get the team primed for the early part of the season. No seniors will be on this year’s squad to replace three key players from last year.
Sophomore Page Hiebert scored 6.9 points per game last year and returns as a combo forward/guard. Aleena Cook, another sophomore, averaged 3.8 points per game and may be asked to play the point guard position.
Erin Brubaker contributed to the varsity team last year with an average of 1.7 points per game and 2.4 rebounds per game. Junior guard Makayla King will use her hustle to lead the team on defense and score much needed points.
Head coach Ryan Hoopes is expecting Alicen Meysing to play a significant role this year, using her 5-10 height to her advantage around the basket. Alyssa Booton will see playing time this year and is expected to contribute to a successful season.
The Bluebirds have respectable height and should have a decent advantage on rebounds, both offensively and defensively.
“If our girls approach rebounding aggressively, we should do all right,” Hoopes said.
Sixty five percent of last year’s scoring graduated with three seniors.
“We will be young but have a lot of talent and potential. This should be an exciting team to watch,” Hoopes said.
Both Hiebert and Cook averaged more than 10 points scoring last year as Goessel averaged 39 points per game. When scoring 40 or more points, their record was 9-3.
Goessel shot 29 percent from the field last year and 51 percent from the free-throw line. To some extent, opponents’ defense dictated how well the Bluebirds scored, but converting points on high percentage shots will be key this year.
Last year the girls finished 10-12, losing in the semifinals of the sub-state tournament. They placed in the middle of the Wheat State League with a 4-4 record. Hoopes expects Centre, Little River, and Rural Vista will be strong competition in the League.
Goessel begins the season Friday at Inman. Bluebird fans can see their teams at home when Goessel hosts next week.